Redbrick - 21st November 2014

Redbrick

Est. 1936

21st November - 4th December 2014 Vol. 79. Issue 1454. www.redbrick.me

Thousands Demand Free Education at London Demo Beth Coveney on why Tom Odell is giving us the chills Music / Page 24

UoB students attend despite Guild withdrawing support Police make 11 arrests News / Page 4

Sarah Dickinson delivers a sweet new craze from the USA Food / Page 17

Flickr: Jon Thomson

Ellie Patten explains why you can't get out of bed

Boycott suspended: Marking resumes as UCU negotiations continue

Sci&Tech / Page 21

News / Page 3

Lucie Turner reviews dark drama 'The Fall' TV / Page 11

Millie Guy

02 21st November - 4th December 2014

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News Tweet of the Week

Society Spotlight Assassins Guild

'Hello, and welcome to the Guild page for the University of Birmingham Assassins' Guild. The aim of the game is to kill your assigned target(s) in the stealthiest, most creative, and most awesome way imaginable to tally points, delegated by our very own herald.'

Email: herald@uobassassins.com www.facebook.com/groups/uobassassins

@UniBirmingham 'The window cleaners around campus will be presenting their big cheque tonight on BBC's Children In Need @BBCCiN'

Online in Redbrick News 'Student Reps for 2014-15 appointed' The Student Reps organisation is run by the Guild of Students. The scheme has been running for many years now, conducting training sessions for budding representatives to stand for their subject. However, none so popular as this year’s training for aspiring Student Reps. On 25th October 2014, over 1,000 people attended the day’s event to undergo training. ‘This is the largest turnout for Student Reps training ever!’ confirmed Joe Armer, the Vice President of Education.

Old Joe clocktower being constructed between 1905 and 1908 (left), modeled on Siena's Torre del Mangia (right)

Redbrick Editorial Team Editor James Phillips editor@redbrick.me

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21st November - 4th December 2014

03

Chancellor and Universities Minister on academic recruitment drive in India Mandeep Heer News Reporter

The University of Birmingham’s Chancellor, Lord Bilimoria, and Vice-Chancellor, Sir David Eastwood, have travelled to India with Universities Minister Greg Clark with hopes of encouraging overseas students to apply for higher education in the UK. The delegation travelled to New Delhi to promote Britain as a place to study and attended the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) Higher Education Summit in order to ‘clarify some of the misunderstandings’ regarding the UK’s policy on immigration, following criticism that the newly enacted visa restrictions are too harsh and are deterring foreign students.

As a result of the recent crackdown on immigration, the UK has seen a fall of over 10 per cent in the number of students applying to study from India. Government visa curbs have made it more daunting for overseas students to go to university in the UK by imposing a new, more rigorous screening process. Applying for a visa now involves higher English language requirements for Tier 4 visa holders, more vigorous checks with universities, and face-to-face interviews, which rely heavily on a subjective approval.

In an interview with The Independent, Greg Clark stated ‘there have been concerns expressed in India about how welcoming we

will be towards students studying in the UK’.

As a solution to these concerns, Lord Bilimoria launched the Generation UK-India initiative, a scheme that offers 25,000 UK students the opportunity to work or study in India. The scheme will span over the next five years and will offer six month placements as teaching assistants in schools or interns at companies; as well as providing accommodation and partially covering food and travel costs.

Vice-Chancellor Eastwood is optimistic about the scheme, hoping that this cultural immersion will ‘build bridges between both countries’ and address the imbalance of students. Currently the UK ‘welcomes around 300 Indian students for every British student going to India’.

The University of Birmingham has retained a close relationship with India for over a century. In 1909, the university was one of the first to accept Indian students, and now boasts more than 1,000 Indian alumni.

The new Chancellor, Lord Bilimoria, is keen to maintain this partnership and said ‘there is enormous potential in continuing to build mutually beneficial links between India and the University of Birmingham’. ViceChancellor Eastwood added that the university has had a ‘proud and longstanding engagement with India’ and while the number of Indian students coming to the UK has fallen overall, the University of Birmingham’s intake of Indian students has increased by ‘5 per cent this year’.

Update: University and College Union (UCU) Marking Boycott Suspended Sophie Dober News Reporter

A boycott of marking students’ assessments was due to take place in 68 universities around the country. This was as a result of a ballot over the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS) pension cuts resulted in the majority of University and College Union (UCU) lectures voting in favour of strike action. However, this action has been prevented due to discussions that took place on Thursday.

The strike was going to involve a refusal to mark student’s coursework and assessments that contribute to the award of any degree, and started from the 6th November.

Examinations of dissertations were also included in this boycott.

There are approximately 800 lecturers in

University of Birmingham who are members of the UCU. Some lecturers did taking part in the marking boycott and assessments handed in were not marked.

"industrial action will now be suspended until at least January" Dan Ashley from the UCU told Redbrick that 87% of those who voted in the 20th October ballot backed this boycott. The Union argued that it is unfair that a member of the Teaching Pension Scheme may take home almost £20,000 more each year than an employee under the USS. A press release on Thursday 20th

November explains that the industrial action will now be suspended until at least after the joint negotiating committee meeting scheduled for 15th Janurary, with discussions taking place in this time.

At the start of November, the University contacted all students via email to give an update on the UCU industrial action. The email expressed that students’ ‘education, welfare and future employment prospects are matters of critical importance to us.’ It stressed that pensions negotiations are a national issue and added, ‘A process is underway to determine what changes may need to be made to USS so that it remains a sustainable and affordable pension scheme for all members, both current and future.’

Redbrick spoke to students on campus recently and found that they were more aware of the strike action than the time they were balloting. There continues to be divided

views on the boycott of marking. One student commented saying, ‘I expect coursework and assessments to be marked since we all pay a lot of money to be here’. Another student stated, ‘lecturers should be allowed to petition against issues that affect their career.’ Students expressed concern as to how long the boycott would continue.

Ruth Whittle, the Birmingham UCU (BUCU) Branch President, told Redbrick that striking is ‘not something that lecturers take lightly'. She also said, ‘BUCU have been grateful for student and Guild overall support about previous disputes and hope that such support will be forthcoming if and when needed this time.’

The Guild released a statement in support of the boycott on Tuesday 11th November.

‘It is important that teaching staff within our universities are properly rewarded and wellmotivated’, the statement read.

04 21st November - 4th December 2014

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News University

Students storm London in National Demo Tara Dein

News Editor @taradein A national student demonstration has taken place in London in opposition of the government’s programme of fees and privatisation in education.

The event was organised by a broad coalition of student groups, headed by The Student Assembly Against Austerity, the National Campaign against Fees and Cuts and The Young Greens.

Demonstrators claimed this was the beginning of a new wave of action leading up to the 2015 elections. Two thirdyear Law students, who attended the protest, told Redbrick, ‘we were initially cautious having never attended a protest before. However, we went out of desperation; this is the only way to get our voices heard. It’s a shame we have to resort to protesting.'

‘We want an alternative to 9,000 grand tuition fees, a more open platform for discussion and an end to cuts.’ One student added, ‘Seeing so many students together protesting for a louder voice and right to free speech was inspiring’.

The protest went ahead, despite withdrawal of formal endorsement by the NUS. The NUS released a statement outlining concerns surrounding lack of accessibility for disabled students and absence of public liability insurance in place. In response to this, two students from the University of Birmingham said, ‘The NUS should have been at the protest supporting us. This is a new generation of students who care about our collective future.’ Protesters have demonstrated

their anger by vandalising the NUS' headquarters, painting the word 'Scabbs' [sic.] on the front of the building.

The protest saw thousands of students march through London, ending the protest in Parliament Square. Second-year Politics and Philosophy student, Joe Grabiner told Redbrick, ‘I went to add to the voices of thousands of other students who are unhappy with the decisions being taken by the political class in this country.

The vibe was angry yet beautiful in some way.’ He added that a ‘SOAS samba band’ gave the protest ‘more of a party feel’, calling this ‘a very student take on what it means to demonstrate’.

Students hoped to ‘send a very strong message’ to politicians ahead of the next election ‘that education is an issue that we, as young people and members of society, care about’.

Video footage and images from the demonstration also appear to show police using force to detain protesters, with at least two confirmed to be arrested after charging the Conservative Party headquarters. Reports also suggest that three police officers have received minor injuries during the demonstration.

The National Campaign against Fees and Cuts are calling for two more days of action on the 3rd and 6th of December.

These include plans to call for walk-out of lectures, launching occupations and protests in local areas. In addition to this, a national meeting is taking place on the 14th December. The Facebook page states, ‘This will be a democratic assembly: everyone will have a vote and we will decide on things collectively’.

Photo from Twitter: @ACunninghamMP

Singaporean alumni donate £1million to campus library

Students run Financial Forum in Aston Webb

Danyal Hussain

Adam Rowe

News Writer

Two Singaporean scholars and former students of the University of Birmingham, Professor Kok Khoo Phua and Doreen Liu, have donated £1 million to the new University library. The donation, in the form of 7,000 ebooks, is a reflection of the new emphasis the University has placed on creating a modern learning space, one which considers and caters for the modern student.

Professor Phua and Ms Liu set up the World Scientific Publishing Company in Singapore in 1981 and it has grown to become the largest international publishing company in Asia.

They are both celebrated academics, with Professor Phua having received an honorary doctorate degree from the University in 2013 for his contribution to physics and scientific publishing, whilst Ms Liu earned the Entrepreneur

of the Year Award for Women in Asia in 2010. The ebooks cover a vast range of scientific fields, including engineering, chemistry, materials science and life, medical and environmental sciences.

The University aims to make the new library both attractive and well stocked, something that Ms Liu is only too happy to have contributed to, ‘We are glad that the University is constructing an outstanding, technologically rich new library and hope our gift will inspire the next generation of Birmingham students.’

This donation is an example of how active the University of Birmingham is internationally, with nearly 700 Singaporean students participating in both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Professor Phua and Ms Liu are both examples of the University’s Circles of Influence campaign that has seen alumni and supporters invest £160million in various forms of research and facilities. The new library is a central element of this campaign.

Katrin Busch

Deputy Editor

@adamrowe93

The University of Birmingham Financial Forum took place on 14th November in the Great Hall for the fourth time in as many years. The day-long event, sponsored this year by BP, EY, Market Mogul and Deutsche Bank, is packed with keynote sessions led

by Managing Directors and other senior executives of industry-leading firms.

The Forum was founded by and is currently run by students, for students. It is predominantly targeted at students interested in finance, but is open to all disciplines.

First to speak was Patrice Muller, who worked for the Bank of Canada before moving on to work for the Privy Council Office of Canada, providing the Prime Minister with economic advice. It was at the Canadian central bank that Patrice eliminated a 5% GDP budget deficit to breakeven within three years. His main tip was to ‘finish your dissertation’ referring to a time when he was near completion of his PhD at the University of Michigan when he decided not to finish his dissertation and consequently did not achieve his doctorate.

Pete Gladwell from Legal and General delivered a refreshing and informal talk on how to ensure capital is matched with the need; typically with public services such as hospitals, schools or affordable housing. He advocates a more organic system where demand is matched with supply, encouraging a less volatile market for long-term investments.

Mutchell (BP), Ward (EY) and Madden (MJM) held a panel-style debate focused on the energy sector, its impact on the environment, the future of the UK’s energy needs and how the sector’s relationship with government should be laid out. The panel discussed how energy security is one of the world’s biggest problems. It was pointed out that 2 billion people in the world have no access to power, a basic right that allows medical treatment, heating and other essential facilities a retail analyst before working her way through the firm.

To close the day, a speech was given by Lucy Baldwin, the M.D. of Goldman Sachs who is tipped to be a future billionaire by The Independent. She attributes her success to ‘a bit of luck, a bit of skill and hard work’, yet it was primarily due to her colleagues who noticed her strengths and enabled her to progress to such a level.

Interestingly she said that ‘the most important decision taken by Goldman each year is choosing who to employ’ and she highlighted how employees come from all backgrounds and are designed to reflect the broad client base. She left the audience with one life tip: ‘to find something you’re passionate about’.

Baldwin also explained how she makes time for family and also horse-riding. This was after highlighting how important leisure time is by telling a story of a colleague who had worked for Goldman for 25 years, only to not be made a partner and was left devastated.

The 2015 forum is currently being planned and students can stay updated at www.birminghamff.com

06 21st November - 4th November 2014

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News Birmingham

Christmas Market flies in to Birmingham Tom Redgrave News Reporter

The Birmingham Christmas market returned once more to open for business on Thursday 13th of November.

This year’s Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market, named after Birmingham’s twinned city, claims to be the largest in Britain with around 200 stalls. It stretches from New Street to Centenary Square, equipped with timber housing, snack outlets and an array of shops. At its centre is Victoria Square’s carousel and bars, whilst Centenary Square again hosts a big wheel and ice rink.

Redbrick visited on the opening night, as the Lord Mayor of Birmingham Shafique Shah declared the market open.

The businesses come not just from

Germany and the UK but from all over Europe to sell their handicrafts and foodstuffs. Redbrick met some tradesmen who had come from Poland for the past three years selling hot mead. These particular vendors return every year to make the most of the business opportunities available over the festive period.

"The market is estimated to generate £90 million for the local economy " Over the next month and a half, the market is estimated to generate £90 million for the local economy. One business owner told Redbrick that he felt that it was ‘too early to be Christmas.’ He added that, ‘It’s not until

next month that it gets really busy.’

The market has been an ongoing joint venture between Birmingham and Frankfurt city councils since 1997. It was founded by the director of events and festivals for Frankfurt city council, Kurt Stroscher, in the hope of spreading his city’s name as not just a financial centre but a cultural one. Due to its success, the market has returned every year since. Frankfurt council continues to fund the policing and cleaning for the event in exchange for the publicity it brings.

Similar Frankfurt Christmas markets can also be found in cities around the UK, including Leeds and London.

Police are warning people against pickpockets in crowded areas as well as con-artists. A video series showing recurring offences has been posted online to bring awareness to the public on how to recognise them. The

police advise the public to ‘hold your most valuable items, never leave a bag unattended and be aware of what’s going on around you.’ The Market is now open until the 22nd of December 2014, from 10am to 9pm every day.

Michael Drury

A Boris for Birmingham?

Isma Azad

News Reporter

Reports have surfaced planning a proposal for a future elected mayor of Birmingham or a regional elected mayor of West Midlands. This possibility comes after the Greater Manchester region has agreed to hold elections in 2017 for a new elected mayor, and has additionally been given the powers over its public transport services along with increased funding. This idea of an elected metro mayor in Manchester has been hailed a success as a result of these devolved powers.

Osborne has previously said that the West Midlands deserves to have greater devolved powers. He stated that this is fundamental in order to be able to effectively make important political and economic decisions that will affect the people in the region itself.

Controversially, the discussion of an elected mayor in Birmingham or possibly

the West Midlands, will contradict the 2012 elections on the subject of a proposed elected mayor. The implications of Birmingham or the West Midlands beginning discussions for an elected mayor could cause many backbench councillors in the city council to protest against the idea, as an elected mayor could take away some of the councillor’s powers of decision making. There is not enough concensus amongst the citizens of Birmingham either, based on the figures of the 2012 elections regarding the subject matter.

David Cameron has previously stated that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ method of a localised style of government, hence why debate is still ongoing in regards to how the idea of a mayor will work in practice. Many questions arise from how the possible election of a regional mayor will affect the smaller counties in the West Midlands, and whether or not Birmingham could overshadow other areas in the West Midlands in terms of decision making and budgets.

Birmingham City Council proposes transport plan Alana Foreman

News Reporter An ambitious transport plan has been proposed by Birmingham City Council for a £4 billion upgrade of connections around the city. The 20 year scheme aims to build tram networks in the city centre and its suburbs, connecting to Edgbaston, Birmingham Airport and the proposed HS2 network. There are also plans to open two new train stations and improve bus routes by running more frequent links and creating an oyster card style system for efficient payment.

"There are plans to open two new train stations" The City Council claims that by 2031, there could be 80,000 more cars in Birmingham without these changes. They hope the plans will reduce emissions and overcrowding in the centre during rush hour, drastically improving commuters’ journeys to work. A suggested ‘green zone’ in the heart of the city will also promote sustainable transportation, encouraging more people to walk and cycle. Second year Psychology student Amber Bhardwaj said ‘Hopefully it will improve student lives by making it easier

to get around, while also reducing congestion’. The increased transport networks would reduce the number of cars on the roads, and promote electric power for taxis and buses.

However, as of yet, the council have not obtained the funds needed for this huge project. The European Union may provide a large subsidy and it is hoped that local businesses will also contribute.

Second year Business Management with Communications student Chris Brassett is concerned about the cost of the scheme.

He said ‘It seems like a lot of money for what it is, it would be better to invest in current infrastructure seeing as trains are currently often running late. The budget might not be very realistic as the HS2 budget increased since it was first announced’.

Tram networks have so far been successful in other cities in the UK such as Sheffield, where the system celebrated its 20th year in March, and where there are plans to expand the network in the future.

However the scheme took several years to take off with locals, many of whom were unhappy about paying for a system that was inefficient. Manchester Metrolink trams system however is due to open a year ahead of schedule, and is an encouraging success story for this country’s attempts to modernise transport.

redbrick.me/comment

21st November - 4th December 2014

07

Comment

Education at Gunpoint Kristine Bagdassarian Commentator

It’s not often that I watch stand-up comedy – it’s just not really my ‘thing’. Most of the time a two-minute goofy video on YouTube about cats tumbling over babies is enough to make me laugh and I just don’t have the patience to stick around for anything longer than that. Jim Jeffries’ speech on gun control, however, held my attention through the entire 15 minutes it lasted: not only because it was hilarious (especially in the accent in which it was dished out), but because there was so much sensible truth in what he was saying.

So, ‘let’s talk about guns’.

'In Australia, we had guns. Right up until 1996. In 1996 Australia had the biggest massacre on Earth (still hasn’t been beaten).'

13th December, 2013, Colorado, 18-yearold student Karl Halverson Pierson enters the grounds of his school with armament of a legally-bought pump-action shot-gun that he has obtained only a week earlier; a machete and three Molotov cocktails.

Although his target is his former debate team coach, Tracy Murphy, Karl’s plans to find Murphy fail and instead, he shoots a 17-year-old Claire Davis. His body is later found by the police.

June 10th, 2014. Reynolds High School, Oregon, USA, begins its Tuesday morning with a horrific tragedy when 15-year-old Jared Michael Padgett shoots 14-year-old student, Emilio Hoffman; injures a PE teacher, and, after exchanging fire with an officer, locks himself in a bathroom to end his own life.

Marysville-Pilchuck High School, Washington, just last month, saw 15-yearold Jaylen Fryberg pull a handgun that he’d stolen from one of his relatives, shooting four people in the full school cafeteria. He then ended his own life.

So, comedy and jokes aside, these are just few of the examples from the chronicles of firearm tragedies that have been bombarding the media in the last few years.

There have been over 70 school shootings in the States since December 2012, making up for an average of one shooting per week in the country with the most open-minded opinion about guns. By comparison, looking up the UK statistics, I only found a single school massacre incident in Scotland, dating 1996 and nothing significant since that year.

Back to Australia. 'Now after that, they banned the guns. Now, ten years before Port Arthur, there had been ten massacres. Since the gun ban in 1996, there hasn’t been a single massacre. I don’t know how or why this happened ah, maybe it was a coincidence?'

After the notorious primary school shooting in Newtown, Connecticut (December 2012), where 20 children and

"the very suggestion of seeing the shiny weapons go sent half the population of the USA scrambling to clutch at their military-style arsenal for dear life." six adults were murdered, the US government briefly considered an assault weapons ban in order to reduce the number of mass shootings. Not all guns, just ‘the big ones’ as my new friend Jim points out, and the very suggestion of seeing the shiny weapons go sent half the population of the USA

scrambling to clutch at their military-style arsenal for dear life. Shock and horror, we are defenseless! Not like there are police out there to help or anything – people who would be doing their job by coming to the rescue, rather than letting civilians handle dangerous weapons that could just as easily accidentally harm the people holding them. It’s difficult for me to see where the panic of giving up on a few of their most deadly guns came from, but Americans couldn’t bear to even think about it. Somehow the breach of their privacy in the form of taking away the ‘big guns’ was far greater than the horror I expected when it was finally confirmed loud and clear, that the government reads our emails, listens to our phone calls (and, in the States, throws away the Kinder eggs because they are dangerous for kids).

In a society where a movie’s profit depends on the amount of gore and explosions we see in, in a time when the mindset is ‘everybody has it’, I suppose we can even agree guns are a part of US culture. America has accepted guns into the everyday life and waves its flag over that fact with pride which dwindles the shame of the accidental murders and school shootings and suicides related to that same glory. Guns kill.

That’s the uncomfortable truth. Guns kill and people with mental instabilities, undiagnosed problems and violent urges will only use those guns to be able to kill, because those guns that kill are so awfully easy to access. Teenagers in a vulnerable age, who don’t fully understand the consequences of what they are doing, or even have problems that their parents cannot admit and handle, need only look around, because weapons are held on the property of virtually each and every one of their relatives.

The way that the US Constitution works is that when what’s written in it begins to harm people, something needs to be changed.

I understand and support freedom of choice, respect the arguments related to the right of David Iliff each and every person to protect themselves.

But if the price for feeling free is this, then it seems to me that there are one too many people willing to pay it.

Sainsbury's Christmas Controversy Charlotte Spence

Est' describes the true horrors of war: 'Bent double, like old beggars under sacks,/Knockkneed, coughing like hags, we cursed through sludge,/Till on the haunting flares

Culture Editor

Today my Facebook newsfeed has been filled with statuses praising the Sainsbury’s Christmas advert: ‘OMG Sainsbury’s stole Christmas’ was the basic vibe. And I agree.

Sainsbury’s has stolen what Christmas really means. They’ve taken an incredibly emotive episode in history and have effectively used the deaths, mutilated or loss of 40 million young men to sell mince pies.

"It's rest in peace not in pies." we turned our backs /And towards our distant rest began to trudge./Men marched asleep. Many had lost their boots/But limped on, blood-shod. All went lame; all blind'.

"People suffered enormous amounts in the trenches to allow us to enjoy freedom, they did not do it so that millions of pounds could be generated by big businesses" This advert is a good piece of film work, it is evocative and moving and incredibly powerful. For the Royal British Legion it would have been a fantastic advert. But for tinsel? Turkeys? WHAT?! Why are we applauding this? Oh but they are doing such a good thing by donating the profits of a special chocolate bar that appeared in the advert to the Royal British Legion. How wonderful. How decent of a multi-million

"This advert is a good piece of film work, it is evocative and moving and incredibly powerful."

"Reduced to the same standing as a cuddly penguin." pound company to donate the profits from one measly chocolate bar.

The advert is not even a true representation of warfare, it conveniently ignores the

mutilated bodies, the rats, the lice and blood? Apparently this is not appropriate for Christmas? Perhaps warfare isn’t the best idea for a Christmas advert. I’m sure the young men who horribly chocked to death on mustard gas really appreciate their suffering being degraded and used to sell Christmas stock.

Wilfred Owen, in 'Dulce Et Decorum

The First World War and trench warfare has been etched into our cultural history, it is an inescapable horror that will never be forgotten. I feel perhaps that being forgotten is not as bad as being reduced to the same standing as a cuddly penguin.

People suffered enormous amounts in the trenches to allow us to enjoy freedom, they did not do it so that millions of pounds could be generated by big businesses. I for one am glad that there are none of the soldiers who fought in the war are here to witness their suffering being translated in the cold-hearted profits. It’s rest in peace not in pies.

08 21st November - 4th December 2014

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Comment

My Anaconda Shan't to men, through music in which we’re constantly exposed to, is forming 'skinnyphobia' as a serious and formulated problem of the 21st century.

These songs should celebrate different

Dean Eastmond Commentator

With Nicki Minaj’s hit single 'Anaconda' going platinum and reaching over 19 million hits on YouTube, while Meghan Trainor continuously drills in how 'it’s all about that [eye roll] bass', is pop music perpetuating negativity towards body image and self-worth or helping to break down beauty standards?

Nicki Minaj. Meghan Trainor. Two names that have seemingly become welcomed residents in the charts for the past month or so. Seen as being 'female icons' and role models for feminists worldwide for declaring that 'real' women possess curves. In Trainor’s number one single, 'All About That Bass', we see her voicing her personal body positivity in, 'I got [sic] all the right junk in all the right places', while Minaj expressed how 'he can tell [she] ain’t missing no meals'.

Within pop, R&B and pretty much any other type of music within the mainstream, curvy women have possessed next to no representation in the genre’s past, so shouldn’t we be celebrating body confidence in music?

In some ways, to see gendered sexual liberation and self-confidence within music and the media is exactly what should be happening in the 21st century. Singers capitalizing their curves and registering that they are forming new norms and ideals, is somewhat revolutionary. Teaching young girls who don’t fit in with typical and sedimented standards, such as having curves and/or a less represented body type that they are still worth just as much as the next person, is great. Breaking down beauty norms that we’re exposed and saturated

"These songs should celebrate different body types and embrace selfworth and the beauty they behold in blurs of catchy beats and memorable lyrics"

to in waves of whitewashed, photoshopped magazines, clothing store mannequins and in vast amounts of TV shows and in films, is exactly what should be happening.

However, problems arise when one form is compared to and seen as superior to another. Instead of seeing every body size as beautiful, Minaj and Trainor are elevating curves and demonizing anything skinnier. As soon as 'skinny bitches' are considered to be lesser women, are when songs like 'All About That Bass' and 'Anaconda' become more detrimental than fundamental.

No one possesses the right to shame, judge or comment on anybody for their body type and appearance. Nor should

anyone feel like their body isn’t enough.

Period.

'Skinny shaming' is something that is being seen more and more within pop culture and youth culture. Owning curves makes you no more of a woman than having a thigh gap. Possessing defined hip bones is no more feminine that preserving a big bum. However, skinny shaming has posed a new issue that we’re facing within society, but thusfar has been seen as a less important issue than the reverse, which of course, is completely unfair.

This may be down to public ignorance or merely the fact that skinnier frames have never been oppressed. Denigrating skinny women for seeing them as less desirable

body types and embrace self-worth and the beauty they behold in blurs of catchy beats and memorable lyrics, instead of comparing one idea to another. Then comes the notion that maybe these songs aren’t teaching you to love yourself and your body, but teaching you to be a certain way so other people will love you. In 'Anaconda', Minaj states how 'he don't like 'em boney, he want something he can grab', demonstrating that what men want is still put before a woman loving her own body. Replacing one ideal with another, is NOT body confidence, but harmful to every body type and somewhat a form of bullying.

So, music should stop dictating how women should look to get Troy (a boy toy who used to live in Detroit) and start expressing how it’s all about that breaking down of beauty standards and loving yourself for the way you are, not that bass.

the format of his videos and found a particularly interesting formula that has allowed O’Reilly to develop a character that should have no place in our modern day media.

Most noticeably the camera is always in his hands, meaning he can tailor exactly who hears what he has to say. Note that most of the time he is speaking to a fictional person (typically a woman) out of shot or he is relying on the confused response of an unaware

participant to corroborate whatever degrading statement he has just muttered. He is a one man band and the cowardly medium of video isolates his comments, leaving them indisputable. There is no debate surrounding his statements, no specific female in the frame to stand up for themselves. Only a fictional woman that can't answer back, to tell this 'comedian' that she, in fact, doesn't 'love it' as much as he arrogantly assumes.

The disrespect continues further when O’Reilly seems to find any source of water a fitting depiction of female arousal, further engraining the idea that female sexuality is not something to be taken seriously. I can honestly say, watching this fully grown man crowing the hideous catchphrase ‘moist’ in reference to how much of a lothario he is would make most women anything but.

Unfortunately he seems to lack the intellectual capacity to comprehend the impact he has. This became evident in a clip from one of his live shows where a member of the audience shouts 'YES YOU CAN' in response to Dapper Laughs stating 'you can’t rape women'. He starts off 'Don’t try and rape' but then, to his peril, spies a female audience member and says directly: 'She’s gagging for rape'. Ironic, and impossible, given the statutory definition of rape.

He’s out of control. He doesn’t know what he means. He doesn’t know what he believes. How can his act continue to talk about his ‘guide to raping women’ whilst simultaneously telling the audience that rape is unacceptable? Dapper Laugh’s demise occurs because O’Reilly is caught between both personas. Out of video, he must deal with human reactions and this split his fragile act in two, forcing him to question how his sexist banter plays out in the real world and how he feels about fortifying misogyny. I’m glad that Dapper Laughs is dead and only hope now that those attitudes of his audience will follow suit, that is, if it's not too late.

Dapper Laughs...On His Own Hannah Coles

Commentator Dapper Laughs. The Dapper Laughs interview on Newsnight was awkward at best. As his brain whirred in efforts to muster a coherent string of words, I struggled to watch. Going from the man who seems so confident talking to his own hand-held camera, he morphed into a turtle necked, simpering shadow. Yet seeing the man himself, and not the persona, reduced my utter outrage to a simmer. He said he was sorry and I begrudgingly respect the way in which he has withdrawn the character, however it made me consider where it all went wrong for Daniel O’Reilly.

Firstly, what made Dapper Laughs different from other comedians is that he has become a bastion of Lad culture. Frankie Boyle may make one recoil in shock, but he has the wit and intelligence to place his satirically grotesque humour into a form where nobody would even think of replicating that attitude. O’Reilly, being so typically ‘laddy’ in his videos and on stage, mimics the behaviour of so many young men out there. His appeal lies in his unfortunately familiar, low brow humour which is widely accessible and highly shareable via the medium of social media. What has tipped the scales here however is the sinister concoction of his sexist content and his inordinate appeal to a certain demographic who see it as ‘banter’. Even worse is the idea that there are plenty of viewers who will see him as an authority whilst he perpetuates the rapist’s mantra that no doesn’t always mean no or ‘If she cries, she’s just playing hard to get’.

After taking a look at some of Dapper Laughs' videos - of which I watched around 50 sickening minutes - it becomes clear that he is an amateur. In the interview, he says that his following grew rapidly and this spurred him on without realising the impact that his ‘unique’ brand of humour has on his

viewers. Shifting the blame to his audience, he abdicates responsibility over a character he previously claimed to be an extension of himself. His excuses come off as childish: 'they made me do it'. In my eyes, a fully grown man with such an underdeveloped moral compass (some may read backbone), and with such ignorance as to his influence, has a lot of growing up to do.

With this in mind, I decided to examine

redbrick.me/comment

21st November - 4th December 2014

09

"Literally, We Can't" Olivia Beesley Commentator

A week ago, LMFAO’s Redfoo released a track that has already been labeled as ‘the most offensive song of 2014’. Making ‘Blurred Lines’ sound like a comforting nursery rhyme, his track ‘Literally, I Can’t” has shook the Internet with controversies of misogyny, resulting in arguments of feminism.

Most of us are familiar with the phrase 'Literally, I can’t' - the exclamation 'I can’t even right now!' has become a well-known joke over the past year. However, this lighthearted fun making of the hyperbolic attitude escalated dramatically when the rapper associated it with sexual harassment and misogyny. When the females featuring in the track deny drinking and performing sexual acts, Redfoo swiftly proceeds to tell them to 'Shut the f**k up' until they conform to his actions. However, before even debating the ‘satirical’ interpretation of this dialogue, there are some lines that are not up for interpretation -'I'm trying see what you got, not tryin hear what you think'. The song clearly presents a view of women as entertainment objects, and not to be valued in any other respect. This dismissal of females is shockingly paradoxical to the new wave feminism that has washed over our society in recent years, empowering both men and women in attitudes towards gender equality.

Having watched the music video, (which if you haven’t seen, not much imagination

is needed to guess the plot, or lack of plot) it was interesting to view a disclaimer message as the start – 'The following is a satirical video it is in no way to be interpreted as misogynistic or negative towards any groups of people'. The very fact that this has been included in the video proves that Redfoo knows that both song and video will be offensive to many. It occurred to me that the disclaimer was the equivalent of somebody

"The song clearly presents a view of women as entertainment objects, and not be valued in any other respect." saying 'I don’t mean to be racist, but' - this does not automatically make the next few sentences that you speak will be void of racism. Likewise, Redfoo cannot expect to publicise sexist statements and proceed to wash his hands of any repercussions that follow.

The artist defended himself via Twitter claiming that he was the true victim in this debate. He argued that he was simply making fun of a stereotype, claiming that he 'loves and respects women'. However I doubt that the artist has mulled over the repercussions of the attitudes that lie within the song.

While some have shook off the song as a harmless joke encapsulated in a catchy beat,

I suggest that the condemnation of any person, male or female for what society views as ‘uptight’ attitudes is simply childish.

"When it comes to the issue of victimisation, the rapper can hardly claim that he is the one under attack."

When it comes to the issue of victimisation, the rapper can hardly claim that he is the one under attack. What about the vic-

timization that his own song perpetuates?

Proceeding to tell someone to 'Shut the f**k up' and continue your actions without their compliancy is hardly what we wish to promote in our society. Making the song ‘satirical’ and ‘humorous’ does not deduct from the issue of sexual harassment that permeates this track.

While some of you may think I am being to harsh or even ‘uptight’, I object out of concern.

I fear that subconscious attitudes flow through our society and have become an accepted norm in everyday life. It is when we see such attitudes as harmless humour that they can truly cause damage.

You have every right to disagree with me... Just don’t tell me to shut the f**k up.

10 21st November - 4th December 2014

redbrick.me/television

Television

Paradise and Paywalls: The Second Golden Age of Television?

With award winning shows and the shift of Hollywood names to TV many are declaring this the dawn of the Second Golden Age of Tevelision. TV Critic Stefan Pace asks if this claim is justified.

It’s no surprise that people are deeming right now as the second ‘Golden Age of Television’. All the signifiers of quality programming are seemingly omnipresent; regardless of viewer choice. Distinguished actors are choosing to return to the small screen as a result of what TV can offer over the medium of film - to name one such example; Kevin Spacey in House of Cards.

We’re even starting to see iconic directors return to TV; David Lynch confirmed the revival of Twin Peaks after a 25 year hiatus at the start of October.

It’s becoming painfully evident that without the trappings of a film’s time constraints TV shows can characterise their key players more effectively; investing us far more in the narrative being told. This is a particularly impressive feat, considering the dramatic difference in the total amount of time spent watching a TV series in its entirety in comparison to a single film.

Viewers are choosing the longer, and often more daunting task of watching hours upon hours of content, and sticking with it, as a result of quality.

"It's becoming painfully evident that without the trappings of a film's time constraints TV shows can characterise their key players more effectively" Stylistically, we’re seeing far more filmic techniques being borrowed for TV. Symbolism and theming are now prominent in many shows and general shot composition is fast becoming noticeably more varied. Stylisation is fast becoming utilised over more traditional and cost-effective methods of shooting in the shows we deem as ‘quality’. From a creative standpoint, it’s

great – writers and directors are feeling comfortable enough to simply imply meaning for viewers to infer; rather than having to explain everything explicitly in shot / reverse-shot. Production, too, is heavily focused upon. Game of Thrones and Downton Abbey pay notorious attention to detail in an attempt to create immersive and believable settings, which are consistent in tone, that audiences can connect to.

Directors themselves are noting the benefits television now has over film, with directors like Steven Soderbergh (director of popular movies like Ocean's Eleven and new hit show The Knick explaining that " TV has really taken control of the conversation that used to be the reserve of movies.

It's sort of a second golden age of television, which is great for the viewers... If you like your stories to go narrow and deep, TV is exciting."

It’s in no large part thanks to the ubiquity of dedicated streaming services that we’ve managed to enter this ‘Golden Age’.

Netflix, Blinkbox, Amazon Prime Instant Video, NowTV, and even Sky (if you can afford it). These names have become ingrained in the consciousness of modern TV viewers for good reason. The success of these services is the outcome of the large amount of content they offer; in turn ensuring even greater numbers of quality programs to watch in future.

The services not only play host to a wide variety of contemporary, quality programming but have also managed to breathe new life into older classics. Viewers have instant access to entirely different types of modern content; from Breaking Bad to American Horror Story. A few seconds of searching provides the same access to shows like Buffy: The Vampire Slayer and Star Trek: The Next Generation. Classic examples of quality television are continually being revitalised and made accessible; it’s not just the new ‘Golden Age’ of contemporary TV –

classic TV is getting a lot of love too.

However, it’s important not to merely overlook the shortcomings of TV at present because of a few high quality programs that are blindingly excellent. It’s entirely too easy to forget that not everyone can afford these services, never mind all of them concurrently. Additionally, different services hold monopolies over different shows – as good as Netflix’s other offerings may be, it’s not where you’re watching Game of Thrones or True Detective. The monopolisation of particular shows and sheer amount of choice, of both the services and the content offered, surely proves divisive to a large number of consumers who only want to watch the best

"It's not just the new 'Golden Age' of contemporary TV - classic TV is getting a lot of love too"

TV as cheaply as possible.

Specific services also have vastly different programs available in different countries as a result of licensing - it’s definitely been the cause of some personal confusion. For instance, US Netflix has season 1 of BBC 1’s The Fall available for streaming and yet the program remains entirely unavailable on any U.K. streaming service, despite it being a British show. I wanted to catch up on the first season before the program continued last week but, outside of buying season 1 on DVD, there was no legal way of doing so.

It seems bizarre that the U.S. version of Netflix has so much more content, despite the similar costs we pay for the service here in the U.K. Quick searches online demonstrate just how much better the U.S. have it, with access to shows such as The X-Files, Desperate Housewives and Futurama in their entirety. It’s tough to not feel a little short-changed over something as unfortunate as geographical location. Even when

these services offer access to high quality U.S. programming, we’re often slow to get the newest episodes anywhere near the same time. Nobody likes having to be overly wary of online spoilers for their favourite shows.

Terrestrial television also often fails to live up to the immeasurable quality of the content offered by subscription-based services. Many of us still get hours of entertainment out of The Great British Bake Off or even Made in Chelsea, but I would seriously question whether most people hold these shows up to Breaking Bad or Boardwalk Empire on the basis of “quality”. It’s questionable whether people without these paid subscriptions believe we are living in the ‘Golden Age’ of TV; especially if they don’t like charming baking contests or the antics of constructed reality. Outside of those shows, they’re probably trapped in the monotony of endless sitcom re-runs, interrupted by the occasional news or sports broadcast.

With so many paywalls to get around to access all of these shows, alongside differing quantities and choice of content by service, it’s understandable when people leap to less-than-legal methods to stay on top of their favourite programs. It’s even more understandable when those shows just aren’t accessible within the UK. People are desperate to watch shows they might have no legal way of viewing over here. It’s not something to condone; but it’s at least understandable – it speaks volumes about the sheer amount and the quality of TV right now.

If the biggest issue we have as television watchers is the overabundance of choice in services and content; we’re probably in a pretty good place. We also seemingly still have some ways to go to catch up to U.S. services in terms of service parity.

Nonetheless, it definitely feels like we’re in a ‘Golden Age’ of television; providing you can afford to access it.

redbrick.me/television

21st November - 4th December 2014

11

TV Quote of the Week: TOWIE's Gemma Collins is fighting the Essex stereotype in the jungle: " It’s like the turtle and the slug or the horse and the rabbit or something, I can’t remember what it is".

The Fall: The Second Coming

It is one of the BBC's most acclaimed dramas and it has just returned to screen in it's second series. But can the newest run sustain the hype around The Fall? TV critic Lucie Turner explores the opening episode.

It has been called “the most repulsive drama ever broadcast on British TV” but to over 3 million of us have tuned in to watch The Fall. Now with the emergence of Season 2 we look at why the drama is so successful, as we are reunited with Spector (Jamie Dornan) and DS Stella Gibson (Gillian Anderson) in their new episode. The finale of season 1 left us on a nail-biting cliffhanger, with Paul Spector still on the run and his last victim Annie Brawley now conscious. Season 2 picks up ten days after the final episode.

"It has been called 'the most repulsive drama ever broadcast on British TV'" The episode opens with Spector alone in a house that is not his own, seemingly separated from his family. We learn that he is supposedly staying in Scotland while his wife and two children have remained in Belfast. The eerie calmness of the sound of the sea coupled with Spector casually frying himself breakfast is quickly turned on its head when we see him playing with one of

his daughter’s dolls. She bears an uncanny resemblance to his victims and we are left open mouthed as he ties rope around her wrists and feet. But I mean, we know Spector by now, we expect this from him. Don’t we?

When I first heard about the series I was expecting gory violence from the get-go, as I imagined copious amounts of bloodshed must be causing the complaints (much like one of Anderson’s other shows, Hannibal).

What I got instead was more like a slow dance of dangerous desire and disaster; but still nothing too shocking. The violence against women in the episodes is horrible, yes, and for once it might be nice to see young actresses used for more than their bodies to be poked and prodded on the morgue slab. But where people have an issue with Spector being too good looking; that he’s romanticising violence with his artistic skills, killer good looks and virility? To those critics I urge them to watch the scene in the opening episode where Spector is sat on the train, travelling back to the city. A pretty, young woman comes along and has with her the paper with the e-fit of him on the front page. “Do you think he looks like me?” He asks. She says sort of, (understandably) perturbed. He asks her to borrow it and

proceeds to draw a beard on the image.

“What about now?”

Their whole interaction, which goes on to discuss her dying her hair to look less like the victims and him getting to look at her driver’s license (a move we’ve seen before) is like watching a spider playing with a fly.

There is nothing ‘seductive’ or ‘romantic’ about Spector. He is creepy, he is weird and he is not to be trusted.

"The Fall is clever. It’s twistingly seductive."

Once more cracks in his calmness are emerging. When he visits his babysitter’s house only to be accused of the very crime he’s committing (the most frustrating part of the episode, it no doubt had audiences screaming with rage) we see him ruffled but there is also an underlying tone of pride on his part. Possibly due to his inflated ego, his mask no longer fits him and is (ever so slightly) starting to slip. I’m hoping this season will explore more into why Spector is the man he is (as so far we can only gauge that he was brought up in care without parents) but as long as a gradual, insane decline is involved, justice will be served.

As for Gibson, we’re shown a more sensitive side in this episode. First in her helping of Brawley; she offers a method to help cope for when her emotions “overcome” her. With a knowing look, Tennant offers her the rubber band, “It helps.”

Later we see her rallying her team with one of the best quotes of the week: “In order to do the terrible things that he does, the killer dehumanises his victims. Let’s do the opposite”.

Is this a side to Gibson we’re going to explore more perhaps? Clearly we’re supposed to think of Gibson as an enigma in the same way Spector is, though perhaps that is a testimony to the actors themselves.

I commend Dornan for his perfection of the ‘cold, dead eyes’ look. When I see Spector on TV I feel nothing but pure nausea. But equally I think nothing of it when Anderson turns up to a crime scene looking equally predatory, offering little explanation for her actions and not requiring one either. Both characters feel fully rounded without us really knowing anything about them.

The Fall is clever. It’s twistingly seductive. It parallels itself with every other shot.

It leaves you confused, frustrated and angry.

And it looks set to transfix us all over again.

The Golden Age of TV: Our Picks of the Best Blaise Radley: TV writer 1. Breaking Bad Probably best to get this one out of the way straight off the bat. There were times during its original run where it felt like you couldn't go a week without being asked 'Have you seen Breaking Bad!?', such was the pull of the series. Seeing Walter White's transformation from mild mannered Chemistry teacher to the World's premier crystal meth cook was captivating and, frankly exhilarating. It's a great example of a show not outstaying its welcome, successfully wrapping up the story after five seasons and ensuring that the quality never took a dip.

2. Game of Thrones This was probably the show whose place I debated on the list most, but when this show hit its stride it really became essential TV. In the world George R. R. Martin has

crafted no character is safe, and some of the twists and turns the story takes are truly unprecedented. Looking forward to the upcoming fifth season, it seems like Game of Thrones has transcended its fantasy origins and found a mass appeal, and with its compelling, morally grey roster of characters along with the quality of the set design and visual effects, it's not hard to see why.

3. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia Shining bright in the field of situational comedy, the plot revolves around of a group of friends who run a bar. The characters are so consistently deplorable in their actions that it lends proceedings a fresh and unique dynamic. Not afraid to tackle taboo subjects, episodes have explored topics such as crack addiction, gun crime and in one meta storyline bemoaned the shows seeming inability to win awards despite its critical success. The fact this show has never been syndicated in the UK is shocking.

Shannon Carey & Jaffrina Jahan: TV editors 1. House of Cards Macbeth meets the White House in this political thriller. Showing the rise of online service, this Netflix original has won countless awards and is backed by worldwide acting legends such as Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright - and that's not to mention esteemed director David Fincer taking the helm. Murder, betrayal and greed are unapologetically the norm in this show, but that only draws you in deeper.

2. True Detective Continuing the theme of Hollywood actors coming to the small screen, this show boasts the talents of Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson. Following two detectives investigating a murder case across several decades, this will keep you on the edge of your seat with chilling suspects,

dark symbolism and the turbulent relationship between McConaughey and Harrelson's respective characters - truly a show not to be missed.

3. Life on Mars One of BBC's best dramas, and, despite ending in 2007, it is still widely remembered today. The show brought actors Phillip Glenister and John Simm to the public eye, and followed an original plot which saw DCI Sam Tyler transported back to the 80s after a car accident. It lead to a spin-off, Ashes to Ashes, and has been remade in the US, as well as Spain and Russia. For those who argue that America is taking the lead when it comes to incredible television, it is outstanding British programmes like this one that demonstrate how we can hold our own in the drama stakes.

Tweet us your picks at

@redbricktv

12 21st November - 4th December 2014

redbrick.me/television

Television

The Land of Liberty?

TV Critic Ella Talbot reviews the latest of Channel 4's documentaries.

Liberty of London is a Channel 4 documentary that follows the work day of some of the most ostentatiously extravagant workers of the historic department store. Having always been known for its quirky style and uniqueness, Liberty is an iconic part of British culture, but could all that be changing? In this series, the show explores how the quintessentially English shop is being dragged into the world of modern day retail by American managing director Ed Burstell.

"The show raises the question of whether everything needs an American touch in order to survive in the evolving world of retail"

Oozing luxury, Liberty is a department store like no other – or at least it was.

After 139 years of residing just off London’s infamous Carnaby Street, the florally flamboyant shop is undergoing changes to modernize it, but is it losing Liberty’s charm? The shop has recently shipped in a Yank to take over the reins.

Filled with plans of how to revamp the traditional store and make it into a competitor for other high street department chains, Ed Burstell is slowly changing the magic that is Liberty.

The show raises the question of whether everything needs an American touch in order to survive in the evolving world of retail. The latest adaption being made by Liberty is to have what is known in America as ‘Open Call day’ where local people are encouraged to persuade Liberty

to stock their products. In a twist of irony, it took an American concept for the traditionally English shop to stock more homemade products. This week, two of the products pursued by the company included scented nail varnish and overpriced designer raincoats for dogs, proving that Liberty’s niche in the market is for those with more money than sense.

Channel 4 truly capture the mentality behind the long-standing department store, depicting it as the resting place for anything classy and quirky. The first episode of the series shows Linda, a retired home economics teacher, making a ‘pilgrimage’ to the shop – her words not mine. While this kind of passion could be seen as hyperbolic, perhaps Linda’s on to something. The experience that customers get from shopping there must give them a big enough thrill to account for the huge price tags slapped on the stock. When shopping for the higher end goods, customers are treated like royalty by Liberty’s sales team– each of whom, in keeping with the theme, are hand-picked to ensure that only the quirki-

"Channel 4 truly capture the mentality behind the long-standing department store" est and most extravagant of staff serve the public.

Despite this, it seems that sometimes there is such thing as too eccentric in the eyes of the extravagant shop. This week’s episode saw women’s sales assistant slash fashonista Omar Khan cross the Liberty’s line of tolerance when it came to his latest

creation: the cape drape. Essentially a sheet of dark material draped over his head and body, Omar was asked to remove his new ‘outfit’, showing that even Liberty has its limit. This proves that while the shop is evolving with modern fashions and lifestyles, some things need to be kept traditional. This didn’t dampen Omar’s chirpy outlook though, allowing him to verify the belief that Liberty’s staff are ‘as colourful as the items they sell’.

Liberty of London is definitely worth watching purely to witness the lives of the animated characters working there. Yes, there is a sense of the history behind Liberty being lost, but sometimes living things need to evolve in order to survive.

So as long as Burstell doesn’t stamp stars and stripes above the door and add the words ‘Statue of’ to the shop’s name, then surely we can allow a little bit of his American influence to cross the pond?

Atlantis: A New Dawn

TV Critic Olivia Tracey discusses the debut of the second series of Atlantis.

It was with some anticipation that I sat down to watch the launch episode of BBC One’s Atlantis on Saturday night. The first series had proved a hit last year with its action sequences, good humour and sense of adventure, so when it was reported in the media that the writers had decided to go “darker” with the new series, I wasn’t sure how they would pull it off.

"Atlantis is original enough to stand by itself as a good drama in its own right" To begin with, I wasn’t expecting the show to be quite so literally “darker” as it appeared that most of it had been shot at night. King Minos was dead and main heartthrob Jason was on a mission for his beloved Ariadne, now Queen of Atlantis, risking life and limb to rescue an old ally of her father. Despite being impressed by the stunts, I was worried that the drama was going to completely take over from the humour of the original but as Jason charged off to do something heroic, Hercules’ quip of “that boy’s nothing but trouble” abated my fears. A sweet moment between Pythagoras and Hercules later on in the episode also showed that the programme’s target audience is still family-orientated, with Pythagoras telling his friend that “you and Jason are the only family I have” and that “I love you, both of you.”

We’re still left with many unanswered questions from last series, such as how

Jason was able to land on the mythical city of Atlantis from the present day in a submarine and the repercussions from the revelation that main baddie Pasiphae (played with evil aplomb by Sarah Parish) is Jason’s real mother. Hercules and Pythagoras (where were the triangle jokes?

I missed them) were given hints about their friend’s ‘destiny’ so it’s possible they’ll find out where he came from sometime this series. Real credit also has to be given to Mark Addy, of Game of Thrones fame, who plays Hercules wonderfully as that bloke from the pub who loudly proclaims he should have achieved more.

Inevitable comparisons will always be drawn between Atlantis and the show it replaced, the much-loved Arthurian fantasy Merlin, and many took to Twitter after the episode had been aired to say how many similarities there were between the two – the bromance, the old ally now secret enemy traitor and sorcerers using their great magical powers to move rocks around – but Atlantis is original enough to stand by itself as a good drama in its own right.

Making the show darker earlier on than Merlin, which changed tone in its fourth series, will hopefully keep it fresh and the epic scale of the opening two-parter should entice people to keep watching.

While never going to be historically perfect (I can imagine there are classics professors out there disgusted by the cavalier way the writers use their source material) Atlantis is brilliant family entertainment and as long as it can sustain the momentum from the explosive opening episode it will continue to be a winner.

redbrick.me/television

21st November - 4th December 2014

Children in Need 2014 TV Critic Olivia Tracey looks at the annual showing of the charity programme.

Just as the nights are drawing in and winter’s setting in, you can always rely on the star-studded night of the BBC’s charity marathon Children in Need to bring some sparkle to a murky November evening. Sir Terry Wogan, in his 35th year of presenting the show, was joined by co-hosts Tess Daly, Fearne Cotton, Rochelle Humes and Nick Grimshaw to deliver a brilliant night of family entertainment, music and specially made short films.

The main highlights have to be the excellent new Tom and Jerry sketch, the Strictly children’s special and the EastEnders cast donning bad wigs and lycra for their live version of songs from Grease. Between the funny bits there are the reminders of why Children in Need is so important, and while it might be tempting to go and make a cup of tea before the next sketch starts, the films of children living in often the most desperate of circumstances make us realise how much of a lifeline money donated by the public to the charity can be.

Gareth Malone’s All Star Choir also put in an appearance on the night and the trials of making their now number one single were shown in the special two-part programme that made me immediately get onto iTunes and buy the song. I’ve always believed Gareth Malone has an incredible ability to give people confi-

dence to sing and his dedication means that the Children in Need single has input not only from the celebrity choir but also from children who have benefitted from the charity’s work, giving it an extra personal dimension. Money made from the sale of BBC Music’s epic launch song God Only Knows also go to Children in Need.

I’ve enjoyed the entertainment on the show every year, but feel quite sad that the BBC News reporters and presenters no longer embarrass themselves by doing their dance in the later part of the programme and the fact that it is no longer broadcast from BBC Television Centre means that it loses some of its sense of occasion. Despite this, the TV specials, appearances from big music stars like One Direction and Cheryl and first-looks at upcoming Christmas specials of programmes like Doctor Who and Call the Midwife meant the evening never lost its sparkle.

The confirmation that they’d raised a grand total of £32,620,469, over £1 million more than last year demonstrates that this year’s Children in Need was better than ever and many thousands of children will benefit from all the hard work of fundraisers up and down the country. You can still donate by going to the BBC Children in Need website or by text or phone.

13

14 21st November - 4th December 2014

redbrick.me/film

Film

The Best of Benedict A round-up of the best of Benedict Cumberbatch by critic Katie Manzi

Review: The Imitation Game

Details Release date: 14 November 2014 Director: Morten Tyldum Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, Matthew Goode Running time: 114 minutes IMDB rating: 8.5

««««« Katie Manzi Critic

In a few short years Benedict Cumberbatch has become one of the world’s most beloved actors. His signature voice, unique looks, and talent for portraying complex characters has led to him being cast in some of the biggest blockbusters of the last few years.

The 38 year old actor rose to fame for his turn as Sherlock Holmes on the BBC’s Sherlock, but there is much more to his acting career than the detective in the funny hat. Before you go see him in the newly released The Imitation Game, here are, what I consider, to be Mr. Cumberbatch’s top seven best pieces of work.

The Fifth Estate (2013) 7 Based around the real life events of the Wikileaks news leak website, Benedict plays the real like Julian Assange. Assange is a controversial figure who denounced the film, and Benedict, upon its release. However Benedict has been quoted as saying it is one of the films he is proudest of despite the criticism. Many critics agree that real function of the film is to showcase Benedict’s talent.

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013) 6Benedict lent his voice and body to the role of the titular villain in the second installment of The Hobbit trilogy. Smaug, a massive fire breathing dragon, guards the homeland the main characters seek to reclaim.

Benedict not only contributed his legendary voice to Smaug, which is enough to make your spine tingle on its own, but he also did the motion capture for the character. This managed to bring his facial expressions into the beast in one of the best on screen dragons of modern film. The final installment of

The Hobbit trilogy, also featuring Benedict as Smaug, is out next month.

Parade’s End (2012) 5Parade’s A five part minni series on the BBC, End featured Benedict as Christopher Tietjens, who finds himself caught between his vindictive wife and a compassionate suffragette. Set to the backdrop of WW1, Benedict’s portrayal of Tietjens as an old-fashoined man who is tortured by not only his wife, but his own sensibilities is intimate and subtle. It is a more low-key performance that is not to be missed! This show may be of particular interest for fans of shows like Downton Abbey.

Star (2010) 4man,InThird this film Benedict portrays a young James, who is terminally ill with cancer. One of his final wishes is to visit his favorite place on earth with his best friends before he dies. This special place is a remote cove on the English coast that requires a several days long hike to reach.

On this journey the horror of Jame’s impending death causes the friendships to crack, and secrets they had all been hiding from each other to emerge. Fair warning, this film will emotionally wreck you. It is at times funny and joyous, but it is mostly heartbreaking and devastating. Benedict’s performance is powerful and is one that will stay with you.

Star Trek: Into Darkness (2013) 3all could Another film that had mixed reviews, but agree that Benedict’s portrayal of the legendary Star Trek villain Khan was superb. There were many doubts about his

casting going into the film, mainly revolving around the fact that the character of Khan was supposed to be Indian. However Benedict still managed to deliver a chilling and appealing version of the villain to the screen that made the entire film worthwhile.

His fight sequences in this film a particular highlight, whether he is squeezing someone’s head until it explodes or getting repeatedly punched in the face by Zachary Quinto.

National Theater Live: Frankenstein 2 (2011) This one is a little cheating, because it is technically a stage performance. However, thanks to National Theater Live, it made its way onto movie screens as well. Benedict and the talented Jonny Lee Miller shared the roles of Frankenstein and The Monster in this version of the classic, switching roles every other performance. Benedict as The Monster was terrifyingly good. This play pushed the range of his acting skills and he more than delivered. If you ever get the chance to see the recordings of this play, do not hesitate to take it!

Sherlock (2010-present) 1 Of course, the role that made him famous is without a doubt Benedict’s best. Every actor who has portrayed Sherlock Holmes has brought something unique to the role, but none has ever been so popular or successful as Benedict.

His Sherlock is not only unbelievably intelligent and crass, he is also deeply damaged and isolated. Benedict’s ability to hint at Sherlock’s buried humanity while simultaneously portraying his dizzying intellect is truly a triumph.

The Immitation Game is a stunning film that portrays like extraordinary life of Alan Turing. Benedict Cumberbatch takes on the role of Turing in possibly one of the best performances of his life. He is joined by Keira Knightly, Mark Strong, and Mathew Goode.

The plot follows mathematical genius and Cambridge professor Alan Turing, who volunteeres for a top secret mission to break the Nazi German code, “Enigma” during World War II. Turing, a man who struggles with the most basic interactions with other people, has great difficulties connecting. This leads to great tension within the team, which only adds to the pressure they feel from the growing casualties.

Turing, convinced that he knows how to beat Enigma, creates a machine that can break the code despite the fact that no one believes in him. This dramatic story is intertwined with flashbacks to Turing’s childhood where he was relentlessly bullied by other boys at his school, and looks forward to the 50s when Turing is being investigated by a detective who desperately wants to know the truth about Turing’s involvement in the war.

This movie is spectacular. The acting is phenomenal from the entire cast and the plot is intriguing and heartfelt. Not only that, this movie is important. It tells the story of a real man who was shunned by society for being different his entire life, who accomplished something impossible and saved millions of lives doing so, and who died a lonely and despised man because of things he could not change about himself. The world as we know it would not exist without him.

It is only in recent years that Turing’s accomplishments has been released to the public, and this film will go a long way in preserving his true legacy.

redbrick.me/film

21st November - 4th December 2014

15

Review: The Drop Critic James Cox reviews The Drop.

Details Release date: 14 November 2014 Director: Michaël R. Roskam Cast: Tom Hardy, Noomi Rapace, James Gandolfini Running time: 106 minutes IMDB rating: 7.7

James Cox Critic

Starring Tom Hardy (The Dark Knight Rises), The Drop is a crime drama focusing on the gangsters of Brooklyn and, more specifically, the use of bars as drop off points for the funding of crimes. At the centre of the drama is the complex life of the mildmannered barman Bob Saginowski (Hardy) and how the surprise inclusion of a puppy into his life can have enormous repercussions.

The main selling-point of The Drop has to be its cast and their performances. Tom Hardy plays Bob, a brooding and quiet barman with a hidden past. Hardy is able to transcend the script as he gives a stand-out performance as an introverted and conflicted character. Every line is delivered with enough nuance, every expression has enough subtlety to grab the audience and to build a character full of mystery and intrigue.

The film would be more of an empty vessel without Hardy’s brilliant performance. Noomi Rapace (Prometheus) stars alongside Hardy as Nadia, a local Brooklyner with a hidden past who is thrown into Bob’s life by the coincidence of a beaten puppy being found in her bins. The late James Gandolfini turns in his final onscreen per-

formance as Cousin Marv, the former owner of the bar before it was taken over by gangsters. Gandolfini turns in a familiar, if slightly underwhelming, performance, though has good chemistry with Hardy. The gang-members do feel very stock and very stereotypical with a lot of the performances falling into a comical pastiche.

What is perhaps most notable about The Drop is its tone. Cinematographer Nicolas Karakatsanis has been able to capture a beautifully haunting melancholic atmosphere that compliments the cast’s performances. The mood seizes upon the lives of these characters; bringing their problems and their struggles to life on the screen.

The shooting of the bar and the streets creates a pallet of broodiness that really accentuates the film’s finer qualities. It’s gritty and it can be compelling just to watch the Brooklyn landscape come to life and tell its own story.

Unfortunately the most unforgiveable sin of the movie is that it is really, very boring. Every scene just feels so heavy that it just drags the narrative from plot-point to plot-point. The plot is both nonsensical and extremely obvious in equal measure. The

story is very poorly paced with a baggy opening act and a rushed conclusion. As I sat in the cinema I could feel heavy eyelids beginning to form. That is never a good sign in a crime drama. Grand metaphors of dogs and responsibility do fall flat and the whole plot does leave you thinking, “Okay what was the point exactly?”

The dialogue is an interesting study of the film all by itself. At times it is witty, well delivered and makes for compelling analysis. However, there were certain portions of the film that I began to think that the dialogue was improvised.

Genuinely. Some exchanges feel so laboured and ultimately inconsequential, convincing us that it was all made up on the spot by the actors. Despite the good performances, the dialogue was at times incredibly jarring, made all the worse by the fact that some scenes are extremely well written and performed.

Overall The Drop has a lot of things in its favour: a good cast; an inspired director; and wonderful cinematography. However the writing does let the side down, ultimately leaving this intense crime drama feeling frivolous and without weight.

16

redbrick.me/food

21st November - 4th December 2014

Food

Christmas Foodie The food team rustle up plenty of great ideas for things to make, buy and do for special Christmas gifts or things to do this Winter

Seasonal Ginger Biscuit Recipe & DIY Presentation Box Jennifer Cook Food Writer

Often it is the gifts which take up time and effort that people most remember. This recipe can make a few small boxes of Christmas biscuits to give to flatmates, or can be packaged in one big box for a lucky someone!

Ingredients for the biscuits: 110g butter (or equivalent) 110g caster sugar 110g golden syrup 250g self raising flour

"Create a truly special Christmas gift, with this simple guide" 3 tsp ground ginger 1 tsp vanilla essence Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 180c (gas mark 4) and grease 2 metal baking trays 2. Weigh the butter, sugar and golden syrup into a saucepan and heat on a medium setting until the all of the sugar has dissolved 3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and ground ginger 4. After having left the sugar mixture to cool slightly, slowly pour the liquid into the flour combination (adding the vanilla essence as you do so) 5. Then using a wooden spoon, stir the mixture together to help form the dough 6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, roll out (the side of a bottle can be used) and cut into circles (I used a jar in lieu of a biscuit cutter) 7. Place the biscuits onto the prepared baking trays, making sure to leave room in between for expansion and put into the oven for around 12-15 minutes or until golden-brown 8. Finally, remove the biscuits from the

oven and cool on a wire rack before attempting to ice

s. on me s a r re co co er t d h ' y l l an , an o a get on er o m t w v t g or in ck t at oe st f om ba s pu th wh n o d e f de l e ha c o tu are mov od van ace s d or es e Fo a e f e f dlin hav ck l in o th tim a ll ri el t h , des wi edb w ile g n m u to lowiend t! Ratio a s a Safiyyah Gareeboo gets o r g g r be nin ni f ar n spi rin b n n R a p p e r ’ s and coming illustrators. n ca ru ur u t fe d i to Delight, by The book is a work of art in d n s y o u Joseph Inniss, it’s own right, and would be much rio an i of y . B as a ikel . e o l y e p lo st tr ide re t Peter Stadden & appreciated by anyone with a tiv ent mo oun ift d a them Ralph Miller is sure to sense of humour and a love for s e d r, c g n both entertain and edu- rap. My favourite by far is the e f stu be the ue k a ive cate. h Perfect for those image that accompanies r T u cem f niq ban o g friends who spend more time ‘Notorious P.I.G. ft 2PakChoi’ O e s o u e et D er e th os on the dance floor than in the which reminds me of a cross n om ak ho kitchen, it’s sure to bring lots of between Paperchase wrapping s re c b ou laughs to mealtimes! It has a wide paper and Arcimboldo’s portraits y appeal and could be a great present for made of fruit. I found it difficult housemates, younger siblings, partners... to resist the urge to play songs by anyone who’s got passion for rap, cooking the eponymous rappers when tryor both! ing out recipes, and the easy to Recipes such as Tiramisu Elliot are accompa- follow instructions meant that nied by brilliant illustrations, created by thirty up even though I was distracted, they

h

Ingredients for the icing: 200g icing sugar Juice of 1 medium lemon Method: 1. Combine the sugar and lemon juice and whisk 2. The icing needs to be of a thick consistency, but if it is too stiff to pipe add a tablespoon of water 3. With some greaseproof paper, create a conical shape to use as the piping bag and use tape to secure in place 4. Add the mixture in small quantities to the piping bag and you’ll be ready to begin icing your biscuits!

Transform your baking into a truly special Christmas gift, with this simple guide to creating a unique presentation box You will need: Scissors Tape/ glue A small cardboard box Any ribbon or string Method: 1. Start by decorating the panels of the box that will be on display. You can cover them with any type of paper that you wish (newspaper/wrapping paper would work) or if you want, you can choose a design online and print your own paper. For my box, I chose a musical score design.

2. As the biscuits will hide the interior of the box, you will need to line the inside of the box. I used greaseproof paper and some clear cellophane, but you can use a variety of materials such as foil or even some festive paper napkins.

3. Once the biscuits are placed in the box, you can add additional ornaments such as paper snowflakes and ribbon curls.

4. To complete, carefully tie a piece of ribbon around the box.

Redbrick Food Christmas Tips!

It’s nearly the end of November which means the countdown to the 25th December is looming!

Start planning ideas for a flat/house Christmas meal as it is a great opportunity to get in the festive spirit and celebrate the end of the semester. Ingredients can be easily divided up between housemates and select at least one person to be in charge – before the chaos ensues! Alternatively, if you don’t fancy cooking for yourselves, there are plenty of restaurants in Birmingham offering a Christmas menu. Now is the time to reserve your table!

Chocolate coins and Christmas sweet tubes are great stocking filler ideas and can be bought

in advance to alleviate any early Christmas shopping stress!

Birmingham is home to some of the finest festive food fares and they are all easily accessible. Take a wander to the KingsEATh Streetfood Market, starting from 13th December for a “pre-Xmas streetfood hit”.

If you’re planning to stay around in Birmingham during the Christmas period this could be well worth a visit.

Closer to home, is the University’s very own Farmers Market. November 26th is the date to keep in your diary for the next one, but the market then transforms into a Christmas Market on December 3rd.

Charlotte Jones on a Day Out at It is that time of the year where Birmingham is at its busiest hosting the annual Frankfurt Christmas Market.

Why not make the most of being in Birmingham and take someone along for a day out? You can get hold of a city centre map at the information kiosk on New Street, and plot the receipient's favourite market treats before taking them, to make it extra special.

With over 180 stalls of food, drinks and gifts, it claims to be the largest outdoor Christmas market in Britain. Bringing a taste of Germany to the city of Birmingham, the market hosts numerous and wide-ranging food stalls from Bratwursts, Schnitzels, Frankfurters, roast pork baps, garlic bread, sautéed potatoes and mushrooms

and for those with a sweet tooth, there is lots of choice from Crepes, Pretzels, flavoured doughnuts (the Chocolate Mint is highly recom-

"largest outdoor Christmas market in Britain" mended), sugared nuts and various iced Gingerbread decorations. As well as, chocolate dipped fruit and handmade chocolates and truffles, which can be personally selected to make up exquisite chocolate gift boxes.

redbrick.me/food

21st November - 4th December 2014

17

Recipe of the Fortnight: Strawberry Shortbread Stars Take a look at our recipes on www.redbrick.me/food/recipes

Gift Ideas for 2014 Many of these are ideal for friends in Birmingham who you won't see over the festive period, and are a great way of getting together before people start going away.

t If pr hing co w o s o G ith duc , S king er a ts pi 's m s s ce n an w uc nt o M eet h a ice t y ar to sT is ou ke ot af a r t- h fy gr th a g or M ea ing re a s ail t s , b at en a m u w se nd all t y ay o R lo o to f h app ca u k sp um er l co no en o 's m w her freak on in the kitchen d ur. De pa so a d A li n m were still easy to follow. Whilst ‘Advanced ay nd ght y y eo I’m not averse to the use of exple- M e t h o d s ’ ! do ar ou ne tives when cooking, the authors page are really n't e g co w have wisely chosen to refrain useful for learning fo rea uld ho rg t s s li from using them in the book, little culinary tips et u up ke ensuring that even if your young- and tricks and little Bi rpri por s to er siblings swear along to their things, like ‘B.P.M’ for rm se t, t favourite raps, they’re unlikely to how long the recipe will in s fo and ry gh r n n do so when following these reci- take, really bring the whole am an ic ew pes. thing together. At just £9.99 it’s 's yon he A lot of the main meals are a great present for secret Santa ow e n meat dishes, but vegetarian budgets and last minute presents to friends are sure to appreciate the post to friends when you’re at home wit and talent of this concept, and over the holidays. Even for those who I adapted many recipes with either aren’t big cooking fans, this sort of cookQuorn or vegetable substitutes. book is guaranteed to be one that they’ll Added extras such as the love.

Spicy Little Stocking Fillers A great stocking filler is this product from Spicentice, a company who produces spice packets that are ready-measured and come with a recipe and shopping list (for all the other ingredients) attached.

The online shop features a range of cuisines such as Italian, Jamaican and Indian, and a selection of products from spice rubs to chutneys. It’s a great way to try something new yourself, but really shines as a gift. Choose a selection or opt for a prepared set to give away, and who knows, the recipient might even invite you round for dinner!

Buy direct from:

www.spicentice.com (or search for their shop on Amazon, great if you've got some vouchers spare

t Birmingham’s German Market There’s even more, food can be washed down with Gluhwein, Weissbeer, mulled Cider or a tasty hot chocolate topped withwhipped cream.

All the food is fresh and great value for money. Just a note for all you foodies, most of the food stalls are concentrated outside the Town Hall, as well as various food stalls dotted down New Street.

There is no excuse not to take your friends and family for a day or an evening, at the German Market this Christmas. It would truly make the perfect Christmas gift experience for all ages. Don't forget to wrap up!

'You've got mail!'

Sarah Dickinson Food Editor

If you’re a regular customer in the Tesco Esso Express in Selly Oak you most likely will have noticed the food section dedicated solely to the range of imported American products. American confectionaries are arguably the most popular of all the products with an increasing number of these retailers opening online and distributing across the UK. One such company known as ‘Taffy Mail’ advertises themselves as “the UK’s only American monthly sweets subscription service, delivered to your door”. Every order contains a variety of popular branded sugary treats including Hershey’s chocolates, Wonka candy, Pop Tarts and soda drinks as chosen by the company and each month you should receive a different treat. Being a sweet-treat lover myself, I believe this to be the ideal Christmas gift for all sugar addicts and enthusiasts alike. When I received my sample box I was delighted to discover that they had included one of my all-time loves, a Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ crème chocolate bar!

If you too consider yourself a big fan of white chocolate and Oreos, this would indeed be your idea of chocolate heaven.

It’s hard to believe that this was my first time trying a Pop Tart, even though every time I’ve browsed the sweet aisles in Sainsbury’s they have always managed to catch my eye. I’m pleased to say that my high expectations were not disappointed; when heated this soft iced biscuit snack

"Every order contains a variety of popular branded sugary treats" with its oozing filling is just sublime. I also received plenty of chewy caramels, Popping Candy, lollipops and a can of Root Beer. I have to admit the Butterfinger bar didn’t hold much appeal personally but then I can’t say I’m much of a Peanut Butter fan.

So no I do not go at all sugar crazy for Reese’s products either.

However, overall my first experience of Taffy Mail has been fantastic- so much so that I now find I have a greater sugar craving than usual, and that is saying some-

thing!

Taffy Mail is also offering our readers a unique discounted rate of £12.99 per box for the first 3 months once you apply online, simply enter the code REDBRICK at the

"You'll receive a selection of sweets that supermarkets don't stock, and for a better deal " checkout. Normal rates are £14.99 a month including FREE mainland UK postage and packaging and you can choose to end your subscription at any time you please. In short, you’ll find that you receive a selection of the best American sweets that even major supermarket chains such as Tesco’s don’t currently stock and for a better deal.

So if you’re struggling to think of gift ideas this Christmas why not try this great sweet subscription service that is both cost-effective and guaranteed to please every sugarloving individual, even if the result is a potential sugar overload!

Tesco’s prices: Hot Fudge Sundae Pop Tarts (pack of 2)- £1.00 Hershey’s Cookies ’n’ creme chocolate bar- 70p Wonka Nerds (46.7g packet)-£1.00 Root Beer- £1.70 Reese’s pieces box- £3.50 Total= £7.90 My Taffy Mail selection: Hot Fudge Sundae Pop Tarts (pack of 2) Butterfinger bar Hershey's Cookies 'n' creme bar Pop Rocks Popping Candy Wonka Nerds (46.7g packet) A&W Root Beer Tootsie Rolls (chocolate caramels and lollipops) Wonka Taffy (4 pieces) Cow Tales Strawberry caramel chew

18 21st November - 4th December 2014

redbrick.me/lifestyle

Life & Style

Dangerous Liaisons: Fashion and Photoshop Esther Newman debates the role of From the magic of the Met Ball to the theatricality of an Alexander McQueen runway show, fashion is a whole other world. It’s world just a little bit more beautiful and sparkly; a world to get lost in for an hour or so while pouring over a copy of Vogue, or flicking through a designer’s look book. But it’s also a world of dangerous ideals, a world steeped in scary realities as already impossibly skinny models are manipulated digitally to appear even more so. We are bombarded daily with images. From the news to social media, we live in a visually driven culture where an image really is worth a thousand words. The consequences of this is even scarier though, with recent research from the Anorexia Bulimia Care organisation revealing that it is estimated that “between 11 and 13 million people in this country have psychological issues or problems connected with food”.

Even more terrifying is the reports that children as young as 7 have been hospitalised with eating disorders, and that victims’ ages can stretch up to as old as 70. Clearly this is not just a crisis within fashion but a crisis within our society and it is a crisis that affects all ages and all genders. However, it can easily be argued that fashion has

“They should be using naturally healthy models in the first instance, instead of having to make them look that way.” played, and continues to play, a large role in the rise in cases of eating disorders.

In 2012 Victoria’s Secret model Erin Heatherton spoke to Fashionista on the subject, defending the use of photo shop in fashion: “We're not selling reality, we're selling a story. It's all about creating this fantasy,” she said. “I don't think people should confuse fantasy and reality because no one is perfect - we all know that.” But it’s hard to justify fashion as merely “a fantasy” once faced with the realities of eating disorders and, especially, how far fashion and other visually-dominated industries such as the media are responsible for perpetuating and feeding it. Arguments claiming that people need to see fashion merely as “fictional” are empty when one remembers how much importance is placed upon this fiction. Childhood and the teenage years are called the most impressionable of one’s life for a reason, and the sheer amount of images promoting unhealthy and, importantly, unattainable, standards of ‘beauty’ can skewer even the most reasonable of people. Adults too are victims with recent research from the NHS Information Centre revealing that up to 6.4% of adults display signs of an eating disorder.

The extent that the fashion industry relies on the modification of models' bodies has been brought to a new high recently with Nicky Eaton, head of PR and press at

Hidden Gems The Jekyll and Hyde Amy Wakeham Life&Style Editor

Escape the Bristol Road bubble and experience something a bit different at The Jekyll & Hyde, a unique gin bar in the heart of Birmingham.

Boasting an authentic Victorian gin parlour, a cool bar and over 80 types of gin from the world over, this is a cocktail

lover's paradise. From classic G&Ts to a lengthy menu of quirky gin combinations all served in unexpected ways, the choice is both endless and endlessly delicious.

Perfect for date night or chic alternative to Fab, The Jekyll and Hyde is the ideal place to forget your student worries for just one night.

Plus, from 4 - 7pm daily and all day on Saturday cocktails are only £4. That's a price that no student can argue with!

photoshop in fashion, and its Conde Nast (the home of publications such as

Vogue and Glamour) admitting to models being

photo shopped to appear fuller figured. Susan Ringwood, the CEO of BEAT, a charity fighting eating disorders condemned this, highlighting the double standard promoted by fashion: “Altering models" bodies to appear fuller-figured proves that the industry acknowledges there is a serious issue with projecting images of very thin models, but [it is] missing the point,” she said. “They should be using naturally healthy models in the first instance, instead of having to make them look that way.”

"It’s hard to justify fashion as merely “a fantasy” once faced with the realities of eating disorders" This crisis of photo shop within the media at large has been brought to a forefront recently with Keira Knightley posing topless for Interview Magazine on the condition that they do not modify her body digitally. The actor has criticised both the fashion and film industry for its manipulation of her body, particularly her breast size. She told The Times that she thinks that “women's bodies are a battleground and photography is partly to blame.

Our society is so photographic now, it becomes more difficult to see all of those different varieties of shape.” While Knightley has received a great deal of praise for the bold move, some critics are calling it a “publicity stunt” for her new films, and arguing that, as one of the most beautiful women in the world, she has nothing to fear from unmodified pictures. Others too have condemned the actor, calling the star’s nudity a sensationalist move that undermines her ethical message.

This sort of criticism is missing Knightley’s point completely. By focussing merely on possible ulterior motives they miss how powerful her decision is. Here we have one of the most well renowned and well paid women reclaiming her body and refusing to let the media distort her any longer. Her message, that all shapes are equally beautiful is not only important, but also sees her call out the fashion and commercial industries for their treatment of women’s (and, increasingly, men’s) bodies. This sort of stand from someone so influential can have a great impact and I really hope other stars and models follow in her footsteps.

We need more voices within the fashion industry and media to take a stand against the destructive and harmful effects of photo shopping and digital modification.

redbrick.me/lifestyle

Budget Beauty Buys Hebe Hatton Life&Style Writer

Maybelline's Baby Lips moisturizing lip balm (in Cherry Me), £2.99 During the winter, my worst nightmare is dried lips, and it seems that no matter how much Vaseline you slather on this problem is inevitable. Not only is this lip balm actually really moisturizing, the colour is surprising pigmented. I have tried the other shades and this colour (Cherry Me) is by far the best, despite looking faint at first application, its very buildable and after a few applications it really does give you the dark berry lip that is so lovely for winter. At £2.99 its much cheaper than buying a lipstick and has a very similar effect with the bonus of combating weather battered lips!

21st November - 4th December 2014

Unlikely Fashion Icons Carys Allott Life&Style Writer

Our favourite TV baker and presenter, Mary Berry, has been setting trends and causing clothes to fly off the rails. On the Great British Bake Off this summer she brought sunshine to our screens. She may be 77 but her high-street style stretches far beyond women of a similar age.

From statement jackets to prints and florals, she has inspired the nation to brighten up their wardrobes.

Particularly memorable was the crane print bomber jacket worn in Season 5 Episode 7. This 90s trend was warmly welcomed by the viewers and by the end of the episode the M&S jacket had completely sold out online. This is not the first time she had the “Kate-Middleton effect”, as on numerous occasions her pieces have sold out in stores nationwide.

Whilst the younger generation may not share exactly the same taste, you cannot help but be inspired by her boldness and choice of colours. Grazia editor, Hannah Almassi, explains that Berry is an appealing fashion icon since she chooses to wear looks that are “fresh and striking but not inappropriate, unapproachable or boring.”

In an interview with Glamour, Mary hinted at releasing her own range of clothing. Without a doubt this would be positively received by many women and I am certainly intrigued to know more!

Kim Kardashian - A Feminist?

As feminism fights for a place in the 21st century, L&S writer Daisy Holden explores how Kim Kardashian bared all for Paper magazine.

Kim Kardashian has been known for many things, but this week it was her famous derriere which was front page of Paper magazine.

Kim recreated the 1976 photograph ‘The Champagne Incident’ and three other shocking images, with original photographer Jean-Paul Goude. The spread showed a bizarre striptease, with Kim ending up completely naked. Not a huge shock one could argue, as her claim to fame was via a sex tape...

So what is the place of a naked young woman on the front cover of a magazine in 2014?

In the day and age of Page Three girls and lads mags, why should nude ‘fashion’ photography be so taboo? Kim’s Paper cover is less sexualised than anything you’d find in Playboy or FHM, but she reveals more of her body in the magazine spread.

Models on the catwalk and in fashion magazines are often photographed topless or in sheer clothing and this goes relatively unnoticed by the rest of the world. As also mentioned this week in our Life&Style section, a few days before the controversy, Keira Knightley was photographed topless. She was praised for her bravery and branded a feminist, because the image was untouched and unposed.

So how is the photo of Kim different? Kim has been photographed naked before for W, covered in paint. So why is Paper different? Maybe without the oiled finish, the image would have been less shocking... Most of the outcry is aimed at the image manipulation. For those unfamiliar with the photographer’s work, Goude’s images are photoshopped for stylistic purposes. The contorted body position is also not real, as clearly no-one could achieve that position. Moreover, does a magazine cover with no image manipulation exist? Probably not.

Many people were appalled that she was a mother revealing her body. I personally feel that no woman, whether she has children or not, should reveal their naked body in a demeaning manner to earn money - whether for a magazine, clothing brand, or any other form of media. However, many female models are mothers, such as Kate Moss who was in Playboy this year, which barely caused a fuss perhaps because the image was not so provocative?

With campaigns such as #FreeTheNipple pushing for equal rights with nudity and body image; protesting against American laws which persecute women for being topless in public, including breastfeeding - is it true that it is ok to reveal your body and be a feminist? In the era of the slut-walks, does wearing revealing

clothes or being in nude photos show equality? “It is my body, I can do what I want with it”. So is Kim Kardashian, who reveals her body on her terms, the ultimate feminist in 2014 or is she undoing all the work feminism is achieving? I know what I think, do you?

19

Fierce

Paloma Faith After cancelling a few tour dates due to illness, Paloma emerged straight from hospital and got back on the road to give fans incredible performances, combining artistry, outstanding music and showmanship that oozed style without showing even the slightest hints of illness. Incredible.

The Hunger Games World Premiere Not only does another premiere mean a new film (yay!) but it also means that the incredibly chic and most stylish cast of the moment descends on London in a beautiful array of outfits. My favourite was Jennifer Lawrence’s beautiful white Dior dress.

Christmas It’s just around the corner and with the music, decorations, emotional adverts, food, Christmas markets, parties, movies, family and perhaps a little snow... what’s not to be excited about?!

Downton Abbey Sunday nights used to mean curling up on the sofa in front of the telly for a weekly fix of drama, Maggie Smith’s fabulous one liners and Carson’s wisdom. Now that the series has concluded, there is an empty space at the end of our week that remains unfilled.

Cropped Jumpers Crop-tops in summer are great and styled the right way can look cool but when the rain is pouring down and the wind is howling, we’d much rather have a cosy jumper that keeps you warm than one that leaves your midriff exposed to the elements.

Topshop Mannequins A recent social media outcry has brought these to the forefront of debate.

The fashion industry is notorious for size 0 models but bringing unrealistic catwalk size constraints in store is a step too far.

By Zoe Screti Life&Style Writer

Finished

20 21st November - 4th December 2014

redbrick.me/tech

Science & Technology

The Warship Anne Sails Again!

A scientific team at the University of Birmingham have completed a breakthrough technology that can bring ancient burnt and sunken warships back to life for your eyes to see.

Roshni Patel Sci&Tech Writer

Members of the Human Interface Technologies (HIT) Team, based at the University of Birmingham, brought a 'world’s first’ achievement forward this year as they brought a historic warship back to its final resting place, after being torched over 300 years ago.

The Anne, a 17th century warship, was famously beached and burned near Hastings during the Battle of Beachy Head, in an attempt to prevent her capture by the French. Ironically it was restored to its former glory by visiting students Cécile Thevenin and Emilien Bonhomme from Arts et Métiers, ParisTech, Laval in France. Using reference books, naval paintings and 3D modelling techniques, the French students recreated a 3D digital model of the entire ship in great detail; from the boards on the deck to wind in the sails.

The effect was more than stunning, as for the first time ever, using an unmanned drone (hexacopter) and augmented reality,

they were able to beach the ship once more.

Using a reference marker in the centre of the wreck and a pivot-stabilised camera unit onboard the hexacopter, the computer was able to accurately overlay the model. This created the

images or information onto realtime, real-world images.

Technology such as this isn’t widespread, but is slowly becoming more common. Patrons of the British Science Museum can already experience a guided tour

Online Sci&Tech Editor

67 year old neurobiologist, Bruce Bridgeman, spent his whole life in a flat 2D world due to stereoblindness. However, a 3D film changed his picture book life into a pop-up book adventure.

Stereo-blindness is a visual disability in which sufferers don’t have normal levels of depth perception. This means that they can’t distinguish between objects in the foreground and those in the background (they can’t tell how far away anything is).

We have 2 eyes that make our stereovision (3D vision) possible; each eye perceives the world in front of you from a slightly different angle, producing 2 similar but distinct images. These images are processed in the brain by binocular neurones, overlapping them and using their differences to calculate the distances between you and each object. As a result, objects that are closer appear to stand out more than those that are further away.

Stereo-blindness is caused by the failure to overlap the images

the names and shapes of the constellations you’re looking at in real time. The Team specialises in advanced simulation technologies for healthcare, defence and heritage applications. See more online: www.birmingham.ac.uk/stone.

"technical solutions bring virtual and real worlds together" illusion that the ship was resting over the remains at the point where it was formerly burned, whilst still being able to see sand, sea and scenery in real time.

Professor Bob Stone, director of the HIT Team, commented saying that, “This has been one of the most ambitious simulation projects we have undertaken to date, requiring some innovative and highly risky technical solutions to bring virtual and real worlds together in a seamless fashion.” Augmented reality is basically the act of overlapping

Living in 2D Emma Houghton

of all things automotive by ‘Top Gear’s’ James May, as he appears on your phone to tell you more about the exhibits. Android users can even use their phones to become expert stargazers as the app, Google SkyMap, overlays

produced by the eyes. This is often caused by the inability for both eyes to focus on an image simultaneously - the correct images are produced, but out of sync. For example, in people with lazy or crossed eyes. Treatment involves training both eyes to focus on a particular point for increasing

"3D films stimulate eye neurones" lengths of time. Although, this can cause considerable eye strain and can be difficult to maintain.

Leonard Press, a vision therapist from New Jersey, explains that “your brain has to make a choice” to continue paying attention during the training and not “supress or tune out one eye”.

Even if the brain perseveres throughout treatment, it is thought that stereovision cannot be achieved unless it is experienced briefly during childhood.

Experimental data suggests that this experience must occur so that the binocular neurones can make the essential synapses (connections) that make 3D vision possible. Only if these initial synapses are made can stereovision be

“learnt” by the stereo-blind in later life.

In the case of Bruce Bridgeman, no training or treatment was required. It simply took a trip to the cinema, to watch the 3D film, Hugo, to rewire his brain and activate stereovision. On leaving the cinema, Bruce could suddenly see his surroundings in all their 3D glory. Afterwards, he said, “It was just literally like a whole new dimension of sight. Exciting.”

Scientists believe that 3D films use specific stimuli and special effects that stimulate the binocular neurones. Also, watching a film requires a certain level of concentration for an extended period of time. These features reflect the treatment designed by neurologists, explaining why it worked so effectively for Bruce Bridgman.

5-10% of the population suffer from stereo-blindness. It isn’t a severe disability; stereo-blind people can live normal lives and can even learn to drive. However, after Bruce Bridgeman’s experience, perhaps the visual cues and special effects, used by 3D film-makers, could be incorporated into future treatments. It could potentially make the lives of many people much easier.

Tech Top 5 Amy Thompson Sci&Tech Writer

Tesco Hudl 3: After Tesco 3 released both the Hudl and the Hudl 2 it has received great

Here's the comprehensive list of the top 5 newest tech launches to look forward to in 2015!

success, with it being the lowest price tablet on the market at £119.

Hopefully the new addition will offer even more for customers but remain at its low price.

Microsoft Surface Mini: 1 The new release of this mini tablet will hopefully provide eve-

Apple Watch: With many 4 wearable gadgets now available, Apple are starting to step up

rything you want from your windows pc but on a smaller scale.

Like the Surface pro 3, it will allow users to both work and play using their favourite software but just on a smaller scale, hopefully this model will bring more success than previous tablets launched by Microsoft.

their game when it comes to making a gadget that could be your phone but on your wrist, with the money and technology available to Apple they may be able to make something that could be the next thing in technology desires, if you can afford the steep apple prices!

2

Mark One 3D printer: Everyone can buy a 3D printer now and make whatever they like; this advanced interaction with technology and the world produces prosthetics for medicine and knitted fabric. This printer is different, however, it uses carbon fibre which is much stronger than the conventional plastic used in normal 3D printers and has the possibility to make parts in manufacturing from tools to car parts.

Windows 10: This will be 5 the latest upgrade for the operating system. With many people being disappointed with Windows 8, let’s hope that this new release has improved away from the previous customer tabletlike interface that nobody was ready for with their PCs. Check out our other top 5 picks of the week online: redbrick.me/tech

redbrick.me/tech

21st November - 4th December 2014

21

Can We Vaccinate Against Cancer?

With cancer becoming more prominent amongst the world population, one of our writers looks into the possibility of vaccinations for cancer and it's associated diseases.

Claudia Efstathiou Sci&Tech Writer

Cancer affects millions of people across the globe and until relatively recently treatments were fairly crude – essentially poisoning the patient hoping it takes more effect on the tumour than the sufferer, or cutting it out. Leaps in science are providing us with more targeted methods to treat cancer, from immunotherapies that use the patient’s own immune system to target the tumour, to proton therapy that limits damage to other tissues.

Cancer appears when mutations in the cell cause it to rapidly divide again and again until a lump of these cells forms, creating a

have begun to recognise that there are some viral carcinogens. These viruses infect host cells and integrate with the host DNA, causing mutations that lead to unregulated cell growth. These hit-and-run viruses may be long gone by the time the tumour has developed, but they will have left their mark.

To try and prevent these virally associated mutations, vaccines against the virus are being created, with the HPV vaccine (Gardasil) the first to be approved in the UK in September 2008 being offered to all girls aged 12-17. The vaccine offers protection against the Human Papilloma Virus, which is responsible for 70% of all cervical

cancer cases.

These vaccines against cancers work in the same way as regular vaccines, they prime the immune

"They prime the immue system to recognise an incoming pathogen" system to recognise an incoming pathogen allowing a fast and effective response against it.

In the case of HPV this means the virus never has a chance to interact with host DNA, and there-

fore protects against the mutations that can cause tumour growth.

However this doesn’t rule out the possible development of cancer, much like a non-smoker can still develop lung cancer, the HPV vaccine won’t rule out cervical cancer, it just limits the risk.

As research into the area of hitand-run infections continue, scientists are finding more and more examples of not only viruses but other pathogens that promote tumour development, with 7 different pathogens currently recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to be cancer causing. Designing vaccines against these could cut the preva-

"Hit-and-run viruses are long gone by the time the tumour develops " tumour. This lump of rapidly dividing cells leaches oxygen and nutrients from the surrounding tissues, weakening the patient and ultimately causing death.

The cause of the initial mutation varies among people and different cancers, but environmental stresses such as smoking and high energy beams like X-rays will definitely increase the risk of cancerous mutations. These stresses are called carcinogens, but there is a lot of discussion as to what falls into this category.

In the last 20 years scientists

lence of cancer worldwide, preventing a huge amount of suffering and lifting the burden (and cost) from health care providers like the NHS. Although it will not be a magic bullet, developing vaccines for

"a vaccine could cut the prevalance and suffering of cancer worldwide" potential cancer-causing infections could have a huge impact on the fight against cancer; some scientists believe that up to 25% of all cancers have a link with an infection.

Every cancer is caused by the accumulation of various mutations that allow it to grow unregulated, create its own blood vessels, and hide from the immune system. As we develop more vaccines for carcinogenic infections we manage the risk of these mutations occurring, lowering the chance for cancer development.

Calling them “cancer vaccines” is a bit of a misnomer as we don’t have a vaccine that can protect against cancer, instead they limit the risk - protecting you from infections that could cause dangerous mutations.

Check out the terrifying new trait that affects new cancer treatments, online: www.redbrick.me/tech

Are Students Naturally Lazy?

Ellie Patten Sci&Tech Writer

We’re all guilty of lying in a little too late, and snoozing that alarm a few times before we get up after being up all night, writing lastminute essays or having late night snacks; but did you know there’s a scientific reason that this is so typical of young people?

This isn’t just “pure laziness” or a desire to keep up with the cool kids: “Oh yeah, I don’t even have a bedtime,” (Come on, we’ve all been there). We all have an internal body clock, otherwise known as a circadian rhythm, and one of the main roles of this internal clock is to regulate our sleep cycle, by telling us when it’s time to hit the hay, and when it’s time to drag our-

selves out of bed in the morning.

Our sleep cycle is regulated by a hormone called melatonin, made by the pineal gland in the brain, larger amounts of which are secreted as it gets towards night time, telling your body that it’s nearly time to go to sleep.

Levels of melatonin decrease as you wake up, and then rise throughout the day. Amongst other factors, this is largely regulated by light. So in the morning, we’re exposed to more sunlight and feel more awake, then as it gets darker, we feel sleepier. This is why we’re always being told to switch off our laptops and phones at least an hour before going to sleep; the blue light emitted by electronic devices decreases melatonin production, making us less tired.

In fact, the use of liquid mela-

tonin as a medicine is increasing in popularity, as it is sometimes prescribed to treat insomnia, and can even be bought over the counter in

"adolescents have a shift in their circadian rhythm whilst still in fulltime education" the US to cure jet-lag. The medicine (or dietary supplement, as it is viewed in the US) can be used to reset your body clock if taken in the correct doses and at the correct times. When taken incorrectly, it can exacerbate symptoms by causing further fatigue.

Teenagers’ melatonin levels

rise later on than they do in children and adults. This causes a shift in their circadian rhythm which makes them feel more awake later on, leaving us all with difficulty getting to sleep before 11pm.

It is often described as nature’s cruel joke that adolescents have this shift in their circadian rhythm, as despite teenagers’ going to sleep later, schools, colleges and universities still often require alertness at 9am, which is easier said than done with less than eight hours of sleep, and it is estimated that up to 40% of teenagers are sleep deprived. Thus teenagers have a reputation of staying in bed until gone midday; sometimes it’s the

only way for their bodies to be able to get enough sleep. This also explains the need to nap after a few hours of lectures, it’s just your body trying to catch up on sleep!

With this combination of a delayed sleep cycle and looking at computers shortly before going to bed, teenagers’ bedtimes are pushed further and further back.

So after all these years of being called lazy and being forced to wake up early, now you can finally tell your parents and lecturers that it’s not your fault: there’s an actual scientific reason that you stayed up until 3am finishing the latest Game of Thrones book. (Or was that just me?)

Check out the latest creature feature online and vote!

22 21st November - 4th December 2014

redbrick.me/travel

Travel

Getting off the beaten track Alaska

Hannah Stevens

Considered by many as a vast, desolate area with nothing to do and no one to see, Alaska’s sprawling land is truly a thing of beauty and well worth the visit. If you were going to make the trek to Alaska then it’d be best to focus on the natural elements of it, with its endless beauty and natural wonders it makes up for its lack of historical elements. It gives you endless opportunities for hiking and kayaking, and for treks through its many national parks including Kenai Fjords National Park and Denali National Park. If you want some calming time then try Salmon Fishing, or to get your adrenalin going then it might be worth looking into white water rafting down the Six Mile Creek. If you fancy looking for some wildlife you could test out the Bear Safari or the Alaska Zoo. If you want a bit of nightlife then Alaska probably shouldn’t be at the top of your list. However, if you want to visit a place where you can be utterly immersed in nature and all of its wonders then it’s surely well worth the effort. Just make sure to bring your camera, even if it won’t be able to quite do it justice.

Iceland

Rocco Campanaro

There are many natural wonders of this hidden, faraway all-year winter wonderland that is Iceland. What better place to start than the northernmost capital of the world, Reykjavík, home to many of Iceland’s fascinating sights and attractions. Make sure you see the country’s tallest building, the Hallgrímskirkja church, the National Museum of Iceland, and the Imagine Peace Tower conceived by legendary musician Yoko Ono. Take a step back from getting all the sights covered, and enjoy the tranquillity of whale watching in various locations of the country, including the capital. Whale is also a national delicacy of Iceland, so be sure to try it out at a nearby restaurant. Iceland is synonymous with the opportunity to spot the Aurora Borealis; the northern lights phenomena that has captivated people’s imaginations all over the world. Iceland is all about its beautiful and diverse landscape including the country’s famous Gulfs waterfall, Maelifell Volcano, and its must see Skaftafell Ice Caves. The Blue Lagoon is one of Icelands most photographed sights. What better way to soak up the snowy Icelandic air than relaxing in the milky, aquamarine waters of Grindavík’s geothermal spas. Here you get the best of both worlds, snow-capped mountains and the beautiful green hills surrounding the spas.

Guatemala

Elizabeth Waind

Guatemala is a wonderfully untouched country, and yet there is something there for everyone: rich rainforest, tumbling waterfalls, glistening lakes, and interesting colonial cities. Unlike some other Central American countries, where the cultural traditions have sadly been ripped away by years of repression, in Guatemala you still see it throughout. The traditional dress, today mostly only worn by the women but also occasionally seen on the men, is particularly lovely. One of Guatemala's more outstanding sights is Semuc Champey, an impressive set of turquoise limestone pools which flow through the middle of the rainforest, named one of the natural wonders of the world by many. Another is Lago de Atitlan; think the Lake District, but a little more tropical and a little less crisp. Surrounded by mountains and volcanoes steeped in rainforest, with small, chilled out towns scattered around the edges, the lake is a wonderful escape. Many visit to learn Spanish or go to a yoga retreat. On a trip to Guatemala, expect to hike volcanoes, explore Maya ruins, swim in hot springs, kayak on lakes, trek through the jungle, perhaps take a Spanish lesson (it's one of the cheapest places in the world to do so!) and simply wander the tranquil streets of this great country.

Patagonia

Patagonia is situated in South region is shared by Argentina a enth largest desert in the wor Patagonia requires no vaccinat Santiago de Chile and Buenos into South American life. Walk destination as there is no shorta Glacier for a chilling, peacefu beautiful sunsets and far cheap footsteps of some of the larges real experience of Patagonian

The 5...

Places to inspire Christmas spirit Jessica Flanagan suggests numerous attractions that will get you in the festive mood...

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Birmingham German Market

Winter Wonderland

Liverpool Ice Festival

Ice-Skating, Countrywide

Hogwarts in the Snow

Right on our door-step is the true buzz of Christmas; in the form of grilled Bratwurst, mulled cider and an abundance of homemade crafts. Reaching the length of New Street and up to the Symphony Hall, there is enough fun to fill a whole evening.

Wonderland in Hyde Park is true to its name; encompassing an ice rink, Christmas markets, thrilling rides and attractions, an ice bar, Santa land and arctic circle. There isn’t one piece of Christmas spirit that hasn’t been provided for, all in the centre of London!

With four main ice-themed activities in the heart of Liverpool, this festival is ideal to put you in the Christmas mood. After a day of feeling the chill, the Ice Bar is the ideal place to perch on the glistening lump of ice with a drink in your hand to warm up.

Up and down the country, icerinks are being set up amongst beautiful scenery, such as the National History Museum and beneath Edinburgh castle. If you’d prefer to watch the action, then grab a great spot on the side to see the wobbles of unnerved skaters.

The world famous set will be ordained in festive decorations to give the iconic castle a true wintery feel. It would only seem fitting to enjoy the castle covered in snow, while wearing Mrs Weasley’s knitted Christmas jumper and sipping a Butterbeer.

redbrick.me/travel

21st November - 4th December 2014

Nepal

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Sara Tryon

Slovenia

India is a common destination amongst travellers, but its next-door neighbour, Nepal, should not be overlooked. With a far more laid-back atmosphere, and a rich culture saturated with history and religion, the country certainly has a lot to offer. Kathmandu, the country’s capital, is a bustling city home to nearly one million people. This is the easiest port of entry, especially if flying from London or other Asian countries.

Whilst in the city, be sure to visit Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, which is an ancient Buddhist site. Multi-coloured prayer flags traditionally associated with Tibetan Buddhism fill the sky and are a reminder of the large Tibetan community now living in the city as a result of the region’s contentious past. Nepal also offers delicious Asian cuisine which differs from the Indian, Thai and Chinese dishes which Westerners have become so accustomed to. In addition to this, the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas is breath-taking to experience first-hand. For any traveller with a taste for adventure or outdoor activities, Nepal is a must-visit destination. From climbing Everest to hiking the foothills, there are a huge variety of ways to see Nepal’s natural beauty whilst also experiencing the more rural towns and villages.

Pippa Smith

When thinking about interlining or the perfect European getaway, Slovenia may not instantly jump out as your destination of choice. However, this little gem in the heart of Europe not only borders Alpine mountains and unspoilt forests, but boasts Lake Bled as one of Europe’s primary beauty spots. With its fresh water, mountain views and warm weather in the summer months, Lake Bled is a worthy contender for some of the more popular lakeside destinations that neighbouring Italy has to offer. The capital city, Ljublana, also has everything that you would expect of a quaint European town in terms of architecture and atmosphere. Whilst not the liveliest city in the world, tourists are compensated by the fact that the stunning Lake Bled is only a short bus ride away. It is also worth noting that staying in the city and busing to the lake for a few euros is often a much cheaper alternative to staying in some of the more proximate lakeside accommodation. Relaxing by the lake in Bled may not be the most conventional of European holidays but Slovenia certainly has the capacity to trump some of the more touristy beach resorts in my view, and is not to be overlooked.

Koh Rong

Ally Head

Although technically the second largest island in Cambodia, Koh Rong is one of the most beautiful, undiscovered destinations in the whole of Asia. This quaint little refuge is its own paradise, completely isolated from the rest of the mainland. With no roads, the villagers get around following dirt tracks marked out by the islands “walking man” Gil. It is essentially the most stereotypical beach paradise you can imagine, with thick white beaches and plush rainforest. The days are blissfully peaceful and perfect for lounging on the sand, with beautiful turquoise seas and vivid corals ideal for diving. Come evening, the beach becomes a base for stargazing and spotting the stunning plankton lights a little out to sea, with the villagers of the island gathering many nights for barbeques. The island is a real haven, secluded so ideally from the rest of the tourist-track which now makes up the majority of South East Asia. It is a completely idyllic, genuine utopia.

Tasmania

Voted one of the top 10 best travel destinations by the Lonely Planet, Tasmania is situated off the south-eastern coast of Australia and is becoming an increasingly popular holiday destination for the avid traveller. Often overlooked, left off the maps and generally underrated due to its isolated location, Tasmania has now become one of the main gems Australia has to offer. This island state has it all, offering a diverse range of activities for everyone, from rafting down the Franklin River to mountain biking on Mount Wellington. Immerse yourself in Tasmania’s rich history by learning the past of Port Arthur, and visiting archaeological and world heritage sites. For the wildlife and nature lovers, explore and enjoy the endless bountiful greenery of the national parks and witness the iconic Tasmanian Devils being fed at The Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park. Tasmania’s temperate climate allows you to enjoy what the state has to offer with its warmest months tending to be December to March averaging roughly 21°C. The vibrant and lively capital Hobart is a good place to start with a bustling harbour, good selection of restaurants and an energetic nightlife. Hobart is also home to many festivals relating to food, culture, the arts and sports during December to February making it a great New Year’s Eve destination.

Tasmania’s regional beauty and uniqueness is not to be missed.

Daisy Holden

American and is home to immense beauty and natural wonders. The and Chile, so the landscape is wild and varied, comprising of the sevrld which is juxtaposed against icy glaciers and tropical rainforests. tions and has a temperate climate. The nearest international airports are s Aires in Argentina. It is unspoilt by tourists and offers a real glimpse king boots and a good panoramic camera are essentials to pack for this age of things to see do. Top of my list is a trek across the Perito Moreno ul experience. El Doradillo Beach is perfect for whale watching, with per than a boat trip. For a once in a lifetime opportunity, walk in the st dinosaurs with the Dinosaur Route in northern Patagonia. Or, for a life, spend a night on a ranch at Estancia Telken.

24 hours in... Oxford Pippa Smith tells us her top tips for spending a day in the quintessential English city.

How to get there Just over an hour from Birmingham on the train, Oxford also has good rail and coach connections to other cities.

den gem. Tucked away upstairs in Oxford's historic Covered Market, Georgina's makes a cosy spot to have lunch. It's quirky decoration and rustic menu mean that it is a firm favourite for locals and students alike.

What to do If the weather is on your side then trying your hand at punting is a must when you visit Oxford. This leisurely, waterbased activity, is unique to the UK's most prestigious university cities - Oxford and Cambridge - and is the ultimate way to take in the beautiful architecture whilst enjoying a cheeky Pimms or two. The Oxford colleges are, undeniably, also a huge attraction for tourists; some have even featured in the famous Harry Potter. Otherwise, the University Park provides a beautiful setting for a stroll, picnic or even a spot of croquet... when in Oxford, do as the Oxfordians do!

Where to go out With unbeatable roof-top views across the dreaming spires, the Varsity Club is un-missable for a glass of wine on a summer's evening in Oxford. However, if you're feeling a bit more grungy, head down to the Purple Turtle Union bar/ club. At this underground venue the drinks are cheap, the sweat drips off the ceiling and you're guaranteed to have a laugh.

Where to eat If you're out exploring Oxford city centre and fancy grabbing a quick bite to eat, Georgina's Cafe is the perfect hid-

Natasha Naidoo

Insider’s tip Oxford is a city with an abundance of history, so head down to the Eagle and Child pub and drink where some of our greatest British writers drank, including C.S.Lewis and J.R.R.Tolkein to name a few.

24 21st November - 4th December 2014

redbrick.me/music

Music

Live Review: La Roux @ The Institute Chris Gray Music Critic

@chrisgraay

Following the release of her grammywinning debut in 2009, La Roux has been relatively quiet for a few years, during which time she worked on a new album whil battling a performance anxiety that left her unable to sing in her iconic and normally flawless falsetto.

After recovering and returning to the stage earlier in the year, she released her album during the summer to critical acclaim, with reviews noting the sexier, more natural feel to the sound and the consensus being that the album was even better than her first. Following the release of the album, La Roux is currently touring venues across the UK, followed by dates in France, Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands.

La Roux's roadshow rolled into Birmingham's Institute this week with support coming from the fantastic Meanwhile, an 80s-inspired funk/pop artist whose enthusiasm and eclectic sound struck a chord with the waiting fans. After the band were applauded off the stage, the waiting crowd, by now buzzing with excitement, only had a

short wait before the main act was to begin.

Coming out with ‘Let Me Down Gently’, the song that formed the first taster of the new album, La Roux launched into a set that mixed the electronic, robotic synthpop of her debut with the warmer, more tropical sound of her new record. With a huge tropical beach scene backdrop, Elly Jackson danced around the stage, interacting with her band and occasionally playing guitar and an electric drum kit on some songs.

"This is La Roux's way to end her comeback year in a grand and colourful fashion" Despite the performance anxiety that has affected her in the past, Jackson could not have looked more comfortable on the stage, taking time out of her set to talk to the audience - whether it be wishing a fan from Twitter a happy birthday, or commenting on a bra which was thrown onto the stage by an adoring fan.

Every song played and comment made

was met with whooping and cheering by the crowd, whose enthusiasm is solid evidence of the strong following she has maintained despite the long hiatus between releases.

‘Cruel Sexuality’ - a summery tune from the new album - and 2009 smash hit ‘In for the Kill’ were among the highlights of the show, with La Roux demonstrating the vocal skill and masterful falsetto that has attracted the attention both of audiences and other artists, including Kanye West, who has enlisted her vocal services on a number of his projects, including his 2010 chart-topper 'All of the Lights', on which she rubbed shoulders with Rihanna and Elton John.

As the performance drew to an end, La Roux came out for an encore, playing two songs from her first album: ‘Tigerlily’ and ‘Bulletproof’ - two crowd favourites to end the set before coming forward with her band to take a bow.

After several years without new music, it's clear that these tour dates are La Roux’s way to end her comeback year in a grand and colourful fashion, showing off the new musical style of her recent release and contrasting it with her older material, which she still performs with the same flair as before.

Single Review: Tom Odell - Real Love

Album Review: TV On The Radio - Seeds

Beth Coveney

Conrad Duncan

Music Critic

For Britain, the annual John Lewis Christmas advert has become as much a part of the festivities as the trees and the turkey, and alongside the wholesome, tear-jerking story about love, friendship and all those other great things (this year it’s a young boy gifting a partner to his lonely, lovestruck pet penguin, obviously), there’s an equally wholesome, tear-jerking song which often becomes the brand new soundtrack to the season. It’s a tried-and-tested formula that works well for John Lewis, and an equally smart career move for the artists involved – this year, Ivor Novello winner Tom Odell with a cover of John Lennon’s ‘Real Love’.

The song and story fit perfectly with Odell’s trademark haunting vocals and romantic piano playing, and the track is riddled with spine-tingling moments. Opening with smooth piano and vocals, the track then swoons into a softly-sung falsetto chorus showcasing Odell’s showstopping voice. It’s a delicate and mild track until the end when

it rouses into a climax complete with atmospheric percussion, gospel choir and shimmering strings - the perfect example of the kind of sentimental ballad we associate with the John Lewis Christmas ads – exactly what we all want to hear at this time of year.

"You'd be forgiven for describing it as predictable, but it is a tried and tested formula" You’d be forgiven for describing it as middle-of-the-road or predictable, but given the way Ellie Goulding, Lily Allen and Gabrielle Aplin have shot up the charts in previous years following their John Lewis stint, it’s bound to be another huge hit regardless. This gorgeously mastered, goosebump-inducing song epitomises everything good about Christmas - it's sure to challenge Band Aid 30 for this year's number one spot.

Music Critic

@conradduncan1

Arriving three years after the death of bassist Gerard Smith, Seeds represents something of a rebirth for TV on the Radio after a period of relative quiet since the release of Nine Types of Light which saw the band maturing gracefully but failed to push on from the success of third album Dear Science.

With that in mind, it’s surprising to see the band move further down that path as Seeds is the most relaxed and sedate album by the band yet - first single, ‘Happy Idiot’, premiered earlier this year to a fairly muted reaction, possessing neither the ferocious drive of ‘Wolf Like Me’ or the unexpected genre change of ‘Golden Age’ from previous albums. That’s not to say ‘Happy Idiot’ is a bad song. On the contrary, it’s an excellent piece of 80s-styled indie rock; slick and radio-friendly without appearing calculated.

The general feeling towards TV on the Radio seemed to be that they had lost relevance, with nothing new to offer in 2014.

This is disappointing, as few bands have possessed their knack for combining accessible songwriting with a desire for experimentation.

Unfortunately, that idea may not be entirely unfounded, as Seeds sits comfortably as the least adventurous album of the band's career. Maybe fairly, in the aftermath of great loss the band decided to play things safe or simply found familiar sounds to be more appealing. Nevertheless, their ability as songwriters hasn’t diminished; even if songs like ‘Could You’ have a derivative feel, they're effective. Few bands could bring a rock song like ‘Lazerray’ with the passion and energy required to make it work and opener ‘Quartz’ kicks things off brilliantly as lead singer Tunde Adebimpe enters surrounded by handclaps and falsetto.

It’s on these moments that the band shines, demonstrating what brought them the critical acclaim they received in the 2000s (including the fandom of David

"In the aftermath of a great loss the band have decided to play it safe" Bowie). However, there are a few songs on Seeds that feel like missed opportunities; most notably second single ‘Careful You’ which starts promisingly with a warped synth groove but leaves us wanting for a matching chorus. That said, the record closes wisely with three of its best songs - the closing title track ends the album on a defiantly optimistic note which emphasises the positives of the record. Ultimately, Seeds won’t go down as a high point in TV on the Radio’s career but there’s enough good work here to outweigh the bad and it looks to be an album that’ll be worth a re-evaluation in the future.

redbrick.me/music

21st November - 4th December 2014

25

Tweet of the Week: @arzE: "text all day, IRL all night that's how u treat a woman right"

Live Review: BANKS @ The Institute Gurnesha Bola Music Critic

@gurnesha

Opening the gig headlined by BANKS was Josef Salvat who explodes on to stage – unfortunately in an 'overbearing bass and drum beat threatening to overshadow his vocals' kind of way. After a frustrating 90 minute wait for the audience, he is not exactly welcomed with open arms. Early technical difficulties seem to exacerbate Salvat’s nerves; however, the atmosphere immediately changes for the better when he slows down for a composed ballad uncomplicated by any spectacle. The improvement from this point is undeniable: Salvat takes control with the confidence he was lacking earlier.

"BANKS emerges from the smoke and darkness with the intention of captivting" The next 40 minutes of waiting time again begins to erode collective patience and thoughts turn to reasons for the delay.

Nevertheless, when the lights cut and the hypnotic tones of ‘Alibi’ filter through the venue all is instantly forgiven. BANKS emerges from the smoke and darkness with the intention of captivating and she unquestionably succeeds. She struts across the stage with her aquiline cheekbones – during the course of her set she frequently walks away into the dark bowels of the back of the

stage between her two man band, moving with a fierceness that characterises the ceremony of the whole affair; an atmosphere of grandeur and grace.

The set hits an early high as she introduces the title track of her critically-acclaimed album Goddess with a commendation of female empowerment which brings much cheering and preparing of cameras.

BANKS’ appeal is her ability to blend melancholia and gravity with an upbeat musicality but she mesmerises all when she takes herself to a keyboard to give a soulful rendition of ‘Fall Over’.

BANKS lover or not (though this is clearly an audience populated with the former) there is no denying the power of her vocals, at times epitomising her brand of sombre R&B and at others capturing the lightness of her electronic-pop edge. Her gentle manner of addressing the adoring crowd is completely juxtaposed by the sheer intensity of her sound. Her relatively bare stage only magnifies her presence and command and she nevertheless appears genuinely appreciative of the crowd’s response her set only becomes tighter and better-executed as it continues.

‘Beggin for Thread’ elicits the kind of response that her highest-charted single thus far should, and she bows out on the highest of the highs so far. However, this is a crowd not entirely satisfied yet and she is cheered back on stage for an incredibly well-executed cover of Drake’s ‘The Motion’ triumphantly reaching fever-pitch with her real closer ‘Stick’. She mentions early on in the evening that she has not been feeling 100% recently, but if she can deliver like this on less than 100%, we can only be left to wonder what she’s capable of on full steam.

Redbrick Meets: Enter Shikari Matt McCrory Music Critic

“They’ve got proper hot-tubs, like jacuzzis, - it’s one of our favourite venues to play just because of that, because we all pile in the bubble bath”. Rou Reynolds, lead singer of genre-defying band Enter Shikari, explains the rock-and-roll lifestyle that goes on behind the scenes at Wolverhampton Civic.

“We’ll probably come on stage in towels... we love that venue”.

Enter Shikari will be touring the UK in February in support of their eagerly anticipated fourth effort The Mindsweep. Fusing electronic and rock music, Enter Shikari have been known to systematically find genre boundaries and then knock them down. Their music has been known to bridge from heavy metal breakdowns to souring symphonic ballads, from dubstep dance rhythms to spoken word verses, crossing a multitude of other sub-genres in-between. Reynolds states that The Mindsweep will continue to experiment with different instrumentation and styles.

"We're kind of shooting ourselves in the foot when we try to replicate our sound on stage"" “We really wanted to concentrate on texture... we incorporated a lot more acoustic instrumentation, we had a string quartet come in for a few days. Me and my brother played brass on the record. There’s a really

nice range of sounds on there, I think”.

The new album was recorded at Chapel Studios in Lincolnshire - “a little place in the middle of nowhere” as Rou describes it. “A really homely place... we recorded our last three singles [‘The Paddington Frisk’, ‘Radiate’ and ‘Rat Race’] there, and it immediately felt nostalgic”. He also mentions getting out of the studio in order to find samples across the countryside. “We basically went for massive walks through the woodlands and the moors. There’s all sorts of strange samples littered throughout the record. Whether it’s logs being broken or rocks being thrown into pools or something.

Anything with an organic feel to it”.

With such a diverse range of sounds on the record, Reynolds explains the challenging process of replicating the music on stage

with just four members. “Because we kind of have this rule not to think about the live side of things when we’re in the studio, we kind of shoot ourselves in the foot when trying to replicate our sound on stage, but we just don’t want to limit ourselves when recording the album”.

“It’s working out who’s going to play what. It’s getting as much of it live as possible and not to rely on any on-stage secrets or anything like that”, Rou says. “It basically consists of hours and hours of me and [bassist] Chris Batten staring at computer screens and programming for the live shows”.

After the release of the first single from the album, ‘The Last Garrison’, Shikari comment on the overwhelming support the song has garnered. “It was a bit of a while coming, but everyone seems to be liking it.

We’ve got a meeting later about the next video... next two actually. It’s all systems go but the next two are very different”.

When talking about upcoming releases,

Rou discloses that the next single will be the track ‘Anaesthetist’, a song that has already done the rounds in summer festivals and previous shows. “It went down really well.

It’s a lot of fun to play live but you don’t really feel the power of the track in live YouTube clips or anything. It’s a track we’re really looking forward to releasing”.

"It's one of our favourite venues... they've got proper jacuzzis, we all pile in the bubble bath" Enter Shikari’s fourth album, The Mindsweep, will be available from January 19th. For an opportunity to see their live show, they’ll be playing Wolverhampton Civic on February 18th - it will a great chance to see a band consistently cited as one of the best live acts in the UK.

26 21st November - 4th December 2014

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Culture

Shakespeare: Seriously, What's the Point?

Othello in the Modern World Dean Eastmond Critic

@deanvictorr

It's difficult to know where to begin describing how mind-blowing Othello at the REP (Birmingham Repertory Theatre) was. A quintessential Shakespearean play doused in modernity, created a set based in a Eastendersesque pub, with snooker poles replacing swords and soliloquies saturated in ashtray stubs and empty beer bottles.

Fit with the original script, the Frantic Assembly production group executed each scene with absolute perfection. Tempestuous fighting scenes were dressed in loud techno music and resembled dance more than anything else. Even the stage itself was its own liquid entity, with walls shaking to resemble intoxication.

It was hard to look down and take any notes, every second was crafted to encapsulate the audience within Shakespeare’s hands and make them feel the tragedy that is Othello. I felt everything; joy, anger, sadness, overwhelmingly all at once. Frantic Assembly resemble the pinnacle of modern acting.

But this gives reason to ask: is Shakespeare still important in the 21st century – and if so, why?

English curriculums at secondary level seem to drown in the abundance of Shakespearean texts and to find someone who hasn’t studied him at some point would be almost impossible. Love him or hate him for his use of archaic language and cryptic messages, there is no doubt that William Shakespeare is one of Britain’s leading icons throughout history. Obviously his plays were created to be enjoyed, to provoke emotion and discussion, to bring a community together and after the Frantic Assembly’s performance this is clearly still happening.

A large majority of the audience were GCSE/Alevel students (presumably dragged along by their teachers) and post-show, I didn’t hear a single bad word. The audience erupted in gasp after laughter after gasp and the play's primary purpose was achieved.

So maybe there’s a reason why they still teach Shakespeare in schools, apart from analytical skills and social understanding. Obscuring student’s minds with archaic grammar rules somewhat poses a notion of today’s grammar. From this, is it possible to say that Shakespeare is teaching children how to use and apply their own grammatical systems? 400 years later, Shakespeare can still get a standing ovation.

Some Shakespearean morals to take away from the Bard's great plays: Romeo and Juliet – Stop marrying 14 year old girls!

Othello – Don’t believe everything you hear Hamlet – Selfishness has consequences Macbeth – Greed leads to downfall A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Struggling with a disguise ultimately helps us with our own identity

King Lear and Feminism Jessica Syposz Critic

Article 19’s innovative production of King Lear combines music with the criminal underworld of 1950’s London to update one of Shakespeare’s bleakest tragedies.

Lear is Britain’s ageing king and tyrant. He descends into madness after the false flattery of his two oldest daughters leads him to divide his kingdom among them. Meanwhile, Cordelia, the youngest, is banished to France after her honesty enrages the King.

This production takes risks, and while they may not always pay off, their freshness and daring cannot be ignored.

"This production takes risks... " Merging the characters of Edgar and Edmund into one, for example. An intriguing comment on mental instability?

Definitely, but also one that's confusing as hell. While I feel that the roles would have been best played by two actors to avoid confusion, Rick Carey as Ed did his utmost to lend his

"Male characters invade the personal space of female characters, creating a sense of ownership." skills to the concept. His acting ensured the audience was both drawn in and repulsed by the dual Ed. Such a complex play only benefitted from the strong cast. East-end accents are tricky to perfect when added to Shakespearian verse, but charismatic performances made up for it: Lizzie Robert as The Fool and Chavonne Brown as Kent to name but two. As Lear, Ben Firth shone as the slowly unravelling Ronnie Kray-like figure.

Director Jacob Lovick talks of the production as a feminist reading of the play. Whilst not immediately obvious, this can still be seen in the way that characters are positioned on stage. Male characters invade the personal space of female characters, creating a sense of ownership. You could even argue that Lear’s daughters are simply defying his control over them. But sympathy for Lear as a flawed individual still remains by the end. Those heart-wrenching

moments, such as Cordelia’s return and the death of major characters, still sting as they should.

Adding flesh to the bones of the ‘50s setting was a brilliant live band (Bethany Kapila, Fabio Thomas, Ben Lyth), who intercut scenes with rock ‘n’ roll and jazz. Sometimes this felt too jarring, but it worked best in moments of real contrast: like when music plays over the unsettling scene of a character being blinded by his enemies. Think Reservoir Dogs' horrible torture scene, but less grim. The sound production and lighting were also fantastic, adding shadow and storm clouds to the ever-growing darkness of the play’s world.

Lear is a long, long play and the danger is that the audience will be put off its duration and by its bleak tone. The production suffered from this fatigue about half way through.

However, tensions picked up in the second half when the tragic consequences of Lear’s actions truly unfold. Overall, a brave re-imagining of a complex tragedy.

What do you think?

Is Shakespeare relevant? See more at redbrick.me/culture

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21st November - 4th December 2014

27

Nepalese Society celebrates festivities Satish Gurung Culture Writer

On the 5th of November, as the University of Birmingham went about its daily routine, a colourful little event was taking place at the Amos Hall - tucked away in the Guild building.

The event was a culmination of the two biggest festivals of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar. Organised by the UoB Nepalese Society, the two-hour long event showcased the best of dance, music and food from the tiny Himalayan nation.

The programme kicked off with an introduction to the society, the two Hindu festivals and the myriad of cultural traditions associated with it. While also celebrated in neighbouring India, in Nepal they have their own distinctive flavour. Dashain is the longest and most auspicious Nepalese festival; commemorating the victory of good over evil through the worshipping of the Hindu Goddess Durga. In Nepal, it is celebrated over two weeks by performing numerous pujas (holy prayer ceremonies), flying colourful kites, shopping and exchanging gifts with families and friends.

The second festival is Tihar, also known as the ‘festival of lights’. Tihar celebrates Laxmi, the Hindu Goddess of wealth. Over the five days, cows, crows and dogs are also worshipped and honoured with vermillion, garlands and food. On the final day, the relationship between brothers and sisters is celebrated.

These interesting facts along with many others related to Nepal were displayed through colourful photos and texts at the venue. The introduction was followed by a series of mesmerising folk dances with the dancers wearing authentic local costumes. There were also a number of musical tributes to Nepal that were epitomised by Deusi Bhailo – a traditional song performed to invoke happy festivities and a successful year ahead. In addition, there were some delicious local snacks on offer – Pani Puri and Chaat.

Ambika Rana, Chair of the society and a UoB undergrad, explained the purpose of the event: “Our aim was to exhibit our fascinating culture and tradition to the non-Nepali students in the university. It was also a great excuse to get Nepali students from universities all over the West Midlands together for a celebration of our heritage. Besides, with the help of my dedicated committee members who have contributed their own part and gave it their all to make the event immensely successful and to let other people enjoy in the process.”

Stephanie Wolke, a postgrad at UoB from Germany, was present at the event. “It was a nice introduction to the Nepalese culture. I learnt a lot and had fun watching the dancers with their beautiful costumes. Above all, I fell in love with the food,” she said.

Only in its second year, the Nepalese Society has gone a long way in pursuit of its aim of creating awareness about Nepal, an achievement noted by the Guild who highly commended for ‘Outstanding New Society’ last year.

Alan Davies at Town Hall Matt Bullin Critic A mainly middle-aged audience packed into the Symphony Hall to see Alan Davies, star of Jonathan Creek and QI, and it must be said he did not disappoint. Despite starting slowly, with some crowd interaction that didn’t quite get the reaction he wanted, the show gained momentum as Davies gave a variety of anecdotes all with the same premise: the idea of getting older.

"This premise certainly matched the older audience that had come to see him..."

This premise certainly matched the older audience that

had come to see him, but he managed to bridge the gap and amuse the younger demographic as well. Most notably where the stories of him sabotaging his father’s birthday cake, and an incident about overpaying for a tennis ball in his youth, both drawing appreciative laughter from the crowd.

"an ending that I think suits the man, a somewhat unassumingly funny comic,who is a genuinely likeable man."

He linked these tales of his youth, with bizarre accounts of his own children’s misadventures (usually involving injury), such as his daughter’s misdemeanour with a dog and his son’s choking impression that left Davies in a spot of bother after falling into the washing machine. The common

Not to be missed: A Christmas treat at The Rep: The BFG by Roald Dahl

26 November - 24 January

Coming to the Guild: Strictly Brum Dancing This December something magical is coming to the Guild of Students. Fight off the winter chill and gain some festive cheer with BALADS Strictly Brum Dancing competition.

This is set to be a sparkle filled evening of fantastic fun.

Following the layout of the popular television series 'Strictly Come Dancing' celebrities from all across campus, made up of committee members from all walks of university life, take on the challenge of learning to dance. The competition is fierce and the stakes are high. This is set to be a night to remember.

Get your tickets quick before they run out!

Buy tickets online: http://www.guildofstudents. com/events/6187/336/

For more information, find out about the society on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ BHAMNEPALESESOCIETY

factor with all these stories was that, by the end, Davies always seemed to want to give one of his kids a whack, drawing some nervous laughter at points, but a feeling the audience could sympathise with on the whole.

Davies’ natural charm left the audience feeling relaxed, as he dominated the large Symphony Hall stage with confidence. The second half carried on the same anecdotal structure, with more tales of his childhood and his own children’s antics. But towards the end it took a rather more x-rated turn, with Davies commentating on his own aging sex life, through a couple of rather graphic stories, that I’m sure his wife would rather he kept private.

The final section may have been uncomfortable listening for younger ears, but it must be said the majority of the middle-aged gathering were largely amused. And after that there was a rather understated ending, with Davies simply telling the audience that he was finished, an ending that I think suits the man, a somewhat unassumingly funny comic,who is a genuinely likeable man.

28 21st November - 4th December 2014

redbrick.me/sport

Sport

Fan’s Eye View: The Ched Evans Saga In a Redbrick Sport Special Feature, lifelong Sheffield United fan Declan Kenny comments on why convicted rapist Ched Evans should have no place at his former club.

Declan Kenny Sports Reporter

Having been released from prison, Ched Evans has declared his wish to play professional football once more. Since then, as a result of his union’s (PFA) pressure, Evans has trained with his former club, Sheffield United. The club’s action to allow him to do so has understandably resulted in a backlash: with calls for United to U-turn the decision, others calling for sponsors to terminate contracts with the club if Evans is to play again, and with prominent members of the club resigning, such as patrons of the club Charlie Webster and Dave Berry, as well as Olympic gold medalist Jessica EnnisHill warning the club that if they reinstate the player she no longer wants a stand named after her.

Sheffield United happens to be the club I have supported all my life, and one that has provided me with some great opportunities during my childhood. When I was 11, as part of a scheme to help youngsters with their literacy skills, I went down to Bramall Lane every Tuesday to learn by innovative means in a way my school could not have provided.

Allowing for me to develop educationally at the ground of my football team was fulfilling and a time I relished and looked forward to it with great excitement. Often, we would be taken on stadium tours, a feature that made behaving at school in the week prior well worth it. The fear of no Sheffield United was stronger than the fear of any almighty god in my childhood. In addition to this, many schools in the local community were provided with free tickets from the club to give to pupils who were improving academically, well behaved, or simply to provide underprivileged kids with the opportunity to go to games they wouldn’t otherwise have been able to attend.

Underprivileged children also, via the

"Many Sheffield United fans and football fans for that matter, are mortified by the fact that Evans is back."

Sheffield United Community Foundation get to play football or go to dance classes 3-6 times a week, with the aim of keeping these adolescents out of trouble and away from the police. This is the same ethos that I travelled to rural Uganda with last summer; managing to teach the children the greasy chip butty song.

Sheffield United is much more than a collection of footballers fielded every Saturday, and it is for that reason that I don’t want Ched Evans back at my football club; whether that wish can be grounded in a legal distinction of role models and a non-role models is another matter. As a lifelong fan of Sheffield United, I don’t want him back at my community-spirited club.

The board’s desire to regain some of the value of his price tag completely devalues the actions of those working long hours in the community.

This view would seem surprising if you were to read the media discourse available on this issue, Frances Ryan in the New Statesman cites that “The boys have his back though.” – I do not. Or Mollie Goodfellow of the Independent, “every Saturday teenage boys would watch an

unapologetic rapist cheered and idolised.” – who is to say the majority will be idolising him, I will not be? And many other Blades fans, believe it or not, will make sure their children won’t be either, whether they are boys or girls. It seems as if we are happy to make the assumption that Sheffield United fans will be counting down the seconds before Evans returns to the field again as if he is a war hero who has just completed a charity climb to the summit of Everest.

Many United fans, and football fans for that matter, are mortified by the fact that Evans is back, but that is not a stance that is willing to be shared by a populist discourse that is quick to pedal the image of a stone-islandwearing patriarchal monster down at the lane, raring to deadlift Evans onto a societal pedestal.

I have witnessed both men and woman, with equal disbelief, at the comments they have made about the need to have Evans back. Let us not pretend that there are not some shameful chants coming from the Kop

"Sheffield United is much more than a collection of footballers fielded every Saturday, and it is for that reason that I don’t want Ched Evans back at my football club"

at times: “he’ll shag who he wants, he’ll shag who he wants, that boy Ched Evans, he’ll shag who he wants!”. But let us also not forget about the remaining 90 per cent of us that were disgusted by such behaviour.

Not to mention a friend of mine that chanted “with consent” at the end of every line in order to provide a counter-chant intended to make a point to such idiots, in the hope that they might actually think about their actions.

Most songs sang at a football game are effectively folk songs passed down through generations, used to unite a community; an image a supposedly left-wing media outlet is not willing to portray. Such discourse highlights just how middle-class this debate has been: if you partake in watching football at Bramall Lane then you are an Evans idoliser that has no concern for his victim.

People of all creeds convene at that football club and the majority of them use a similar moral compass to that of any up-andcoming middle class journalist - I can assure you. It is another fine example of left-wing identity politics being so concerned with the oppression of those they are fighting for, via populous articles, that they are willing to make gross assumptions about a predominantly working-class sport, on the basis that because it is often rowdy and foul-mouthed, it will idolise a rapist. Sheffield United fans are divided on the issue, as is society. Jess Ennis-Hill, Charlie Webster, and Dave Berry have done all in their power to denounce the club’s actions, but so have many of our fans.

Just to top it off, as if such a generalisation

is not frustrating enough, Mollie Goodfellow concludes her article with the line: “Evans should not be allowed to play at Sheffield.”

Just ask any football fan in the city why that is the most infuriating thing an outsider can say.

Football tickets are only going up in price and the last thing austerity-stricken football fans need is another reason not to take their family down to Bramall Lane as an escape from work. Sheffield United are

"We Blades bear no power over whether Evans trains or plays, or is banished from our history books." stupid beyond belief to even allow for Evans to train with our club, but that is not a decision any of us have the ability to make.

Football is loud, often foul-mouthed and chaotic at times but that should not denounce its valuable contribution or its fans’ ability to disagree with the club’s decision.

When I went to Doncaster away, it was good chance to have a pint and catch up with my dad and feel some of the workingclass community spirit that football has done so much to protect, whilst begrudgingly accepting that we Blades bear no power over whether Evans trains or plays, or is banished from our history books.

redbrick.me/sport

21st November - 4th December 2014

29

Coventry dent Brum's Title Ambitions Fraser Smith reports as local rivals do battle in a game which could have a major impact on both sides' League aspirations.

Fraser Smith Sports Reporter

The Birmingham 1st XI were narrowly defeated by a resilient Coventry 1st XI in a pulsating and brutal encounter. With all respect to Coventry, it was a game which Birmingham should have won. Despite having the majority of the possession, Coventry were able to grind the game down through their rugged style of play. The loss leaves the pre-season promotion favourites (Birmingham) can succeed and win the league.

Birmingham were aiming to push on following their last gasp equaliser against Notts Trent. This was evident in the positive play on the left hand side with a good amount of interplay between winger Luke Bowerman and striker Luke Barrow.

However, it was soon after this positive play that the first major incident occurred.

In the 2nd minute Coventry’s central midfielder played a through ball to the striker.

"Birmingham were aiming to push on following their last gasp equaliser against Nottingham Trent" Birmingham’s defenders were able to hold him up briefly, however he played a short one-two with their winger and when turning was hacked down inside the box by a Birmingham defender. It was down Birmingham’s right that Coventry tried to exploit Birmingham’s defence and it was through this side that the penalty came about. Goalkeeper John Piggot was however able reverse his defence’s blunder by performing a fantastic save to his bottom left to keep the score goalless.

Despite the penalty being down Birmingham’s right here was still strong attacking play from the home side.

Following a strong run from winger Jake Brown the ball was stood up on a plate for Number 9 Luke Barrow to bury into the back of the net. However he took an unlucky swipe at the ball and missed a great opportunity to put Birmingham 1-0

Men's Football 1st's

Birmingham 1st's

1

Coventry 1st's

2

up. Coventry however following the missed penalty were able to convert the next big chance of the game. After a good spell of possession, Birmingham were dispossesed and this time Coventry didn’t miss their

Birmingham had the next opportunity on the 32nd minute when a free-kick was

"Despite Birmingham's previous comeback they were not able to secure an equaliser" awarded on the left hand side. When the free kick was crossed in at the near post

close to scoring as in the 40th minute a free kick was cleared and landed into the path of winger Brown who struck the ball wide of the left hand side of the goal. However despite Birmingham’s dominance, Coventry equalised in the 42nd minute. Coventry’s centre-back lost his marker to bullet a header past goalkeeper Piggot.

In the 2nd half it was evident that Coventry were content to hold onto their lead. Despite this Birmingham were still able to create chances with captain Declan

"If Birmingham looked like they were going to equalise it would be down the lefthand side" chance as the striker was able to beat the offside trap to finish with aplomb, making it 1-0.

Despite this blip Birmingham were determined to get back on level terms; in the 17th minute if it wasn’t for a slight bit of miss-control striker Barrow would have been in. By the 20th minute the game was becoming slightly more fragmented, with the referee struggling to implement the advantage rule. Both teams were becoming more disgruntled with the referees officiating of the game, with an apparent handball penalty claim not being awarded to Birmingham in the 22nd minute.

If Birmingham looked like they were going to equalise it would be down the left hand-side. As in the 25th minute following a delightful through ball from Birmingham’s defence, Barrow would have been in only for the ball to smashed against him and in turn go for a Goal-Kick. Then in the following minute following a string of headers the ball found its way to striker Barrow on the right-hand side, who after turning inside was rewarded for his hard work earned his team a penalty after being taken down inside the box. However the penalty was almost identical to the previous one with the oppositions’ goalkeeper reach down to his left to save the firing shot from Number 11 Bowerman.

Peter Saxon winger Brown was able to take the ball down but was only able to find the goalkeeper, who parried it away. A corner was given to the home team in the 37th minute and by this point they were the team in the ascendancy. The corner was headed clear which fell kindly to the onrushing Bowerman who was alert outside the box.

His crisp half volley rifled itself into the top right hand corner of the net. The goal was an outstanding display of technique ...

By this point Birmingham again were

Peter Saxon

Kirby firing the ball just past the right hand side of the goal. As the half wore on, there were many complaints directed towards the referee, with some opposition players

"there were many complaints directed towards the referee, with some opposition players imploring him to issue more yellow cards" imploring him to issue more yellow cards.

Substitute Will Richards, aggravated a shoulder injury following a collision with a defender but recovered to play on as Birmingham searched for an equaliser.

Towards the latter stages of the game a minor scuffle ensued between the majority of the players.

Despite Birmingham’s previous comeback they were not able to secure an equaliser before the full time whistle blew. The full time celebrations from the Coventry players reflect a team who now have serious belief in their title ambitions. The home Manager Rob Williams was obviously unhappy following the game and stated that that “We probably got what we deserved, we were poor” and stated that “not taking chances has cost us.” When questioned about his sides title’s chances he responded positively stating that “We’ll be there or thereabouts” but warned that they “can’t afford to lose another game.”

Despite the loss Birmingham can remain positive as the change to a 10-game season format, gives them leeway to mount a serious title challenge.

30 21st November - 4th December 2014

redbrick.me/sport

Sport

Sixth straight loss for Brum as Edinburgh add to misery It's business as usual for the University's Women's Hockey 1sts. Last season's title win has only seemed to spur the champions further. Sports Reporter Sam Harrison was at Bournbrook watching the ladies brush their Nottingham counterparts aside.

Sam Harrison

Women's Rugby 1sts

Sports Reporter

Birmingham 1sts

5

At the Bournbrook pitches, the Women’s Rugby Union 1st team suffered a heavy loss to the Edinburgh 1st team, losing by a scoreline of 50 – 5. However, the score does not tell the whole story, as the team played well for much of the 80 minutes, with a few lapses, aided by a standout performance by the Edinburgh outside centre, costing the team.

The scoring was opened up fairly early

by Edinburgh, as a well worked line out deep in Birmingham territory gave the Number 8 a clear run to the corner. The second score came a short while later, as another line out in Birmingham’s 22 metre area, borne out of sustained pressure, led to a the forwards driving over narrowly to the left of the posts.

This was a game in which both teams had too many unforced errors, particularly involving handling. A very high 21 scrums occurred during the game, though it was much more enjoyable to watch these scrums than those in the professional game, as very few scrums had to be reset.

There were also a fair few penalties throughout the game, with both teams making mistakes at the breakdown. The penalty count was fairly even, with

Edinburgh 1sts

50

"This was a game in which both teams had too many unforced errors" Birmingham awarded eight penalties and Edinburgh awarded seven.

A lack of discipline was certainly not

the downfall of the Birmingham team, though they did turn over the ball too many times, and were certainly negative in that respect, also missing some big tackles. In actual fact, the main reason that Edinburgh were able to put up so many points was the performance of their playmaking outside centre, who ran down the left wing to set up the third try, eventually scored by the winger. She also ran in four tries of her own, touching down twice

"the main reason that Edinburgh were able to put up so many points was the performance of their playmaking outside centre"

noon, running down the right-hand touchline.

Following this score, Birmingham was able to regroup and mount an attack on the Edinburgh line. Unfortunately, Birmingham coughed up possession once more, and Edinburgh cleared their lines. The relief did not last long, however, as Birmingham were able to run in a consolation try, with the centre powering past defenders to slide under the posts. At 50 – 5, the game was

"At 50-5, the game was over, but Edinburgh were not finished" over, but Edinburgh were not finished, as they punished Birmingham for spilling the ball, with the winger running down the

Head to Head: 21 scrums in the match

left to score in the corner.

"The Birmingham squad can take some positives from this performance" The Birmingham squad can take some positives from this performance, as they were able to recover from leaking points to mount attacks in both halves. They can also take positives from the set pieces; scrums and line outs, and the attacking intent with offloading. A decent all round performance could be improved with better defensive organisation and more possession. If they can keep the ball for more sustained periods in matches this would also help the turnover differential.

Penalties 8 - Birmingham 7 - Edinburgh

either side of the break.

The first came after more pressure on the Birmingham line, as she ran it in to the corner, making the score 24 – 0. Her second came almost immediately after, as she broke from deep inside her own territory to touch down under the uprights. At the start of the second half, Birmingham had the lion’s share of possession, but eventually the stalemate was broken after a scrum around midfield led to the outside centre racing away to score her hat-trick try. With the score at 38 – 0, a turnover resulted in the centres fourth of the after-

"In total, the referee dished out six yellow cards, and there were many fouls that, on another day, could have warranted further punishment"

Peter Saxon

redbrick.me/sport

21st November - 4th December 2014

Tweet of the week

Wednesday's results Men

Spotlight: Trampolining Last weekend saw the first competition of the new academic year in the North England University Trampolining (NEUT) league, and Birmingham were back with a vengeance, determined to beat their 5th place ranking in the league last year. Following the success at the Birmingham Open the previous weekend, spirits were high and the team were determined to produce another good performance.

W - Badminton 1sts 6-2 Leeds Beckett 1sts W - Golf 1sts 5-1 Nottingham 1sts L - Rugby League 1sts 10-14 Warwick 1sts W - Hockey 1sts 8-2 Leeds 1sts L - Rugby Union 1sts 22-43 Durham 2nds

Women W - Tennis 1sts 10-2 Nottingham 2nds W - Lacrosse 1sts 20-1 Leeds 1sts

Cherona Chapman

W - Hockey 1sts 4-1 Leeds 1sts

W - Netball 1sts 48-19 UEA 1sts

Things to look forward to this weekend

Arsenal vs Manchester United November 22- 5:30PM: Both teams enter this fixture having made a stuttering start to their seasons. This promises to be an interesting encounter with both sides counting the cost of numerous injuries and both managers sweating over their recent defensive problems.

Spotlight: Swimming

Photo of the week sports@redbrick.me @redbricksport

Luke Shaw (Manchester United) and Danny Welbeck (Arsenal) are both doubts for the game following Tuesday's friendly between Scotland and England (1-3) at Celtic Park.

Wales vs New Zealand- Rugby Union: November 22nd 5:30PM: Richie McCaw leads the All Blacks for the 100th time, as New Zealand look to continue where they left off, following recent victories against England and Scotland. Wales haven't beaten the All Blacks since 1953, and will be looking to improve on their unconvincing win over Fiji last weekend.

Strong routines were present from the outset with the novice and intermediate ladies producing some great displays in their categories, and as the morning progressed, the interadvanced men and elite ladies followed suit.

Birmingham’s efforts were not quite good enough to achieve a medal position in any of the team or individual events, although there were several noteworthy performances. First-year Beth Harvey claimed 6th place (against over 90 competitors) and third-year Philly Evans achieved 5th place, in their respective categories. Four members of the Birmingham team grabbed top 10 places.

W - Badminton 1sts 6-2 Leeds Beckett 1sts

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2014 November 21-23: Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg do battle in the final race of the racing calendar. Hamilton leads Rosberg by 17 points, but with double points on offer for the final race, the German will be hoping to capitalise and secure his maiden F1 title.

31

Redbrick Sport

Online: Congratulations to our alumnus Laura Keates and Kat Merchant as well as the rest of the World Cup Winning England Women's Rugby team who were awarded the Sky Sportswomen Team of the Year Award for 2014. Read her interview with Sports Editor Alex Kronenberg on our website.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and online at www.redbrick.me/sports to keep up to date with all the latest sporting events. If you are interested in writing for Redbrick Sport, please get in touch by emailing sport@redbrick.me

Laura Shepherd The University of Birmingham Sport (UBSport ) Swimming club took part in the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) Short Course Championships from, November 14th-16th at Ponds Forge in Sheffield, the first major BUCS swimming event of the season.

Once again USport swimming rose to the occasion; breaking 46 personal best times, setting 23 new club records and finishing an impressive 5th position with a total of 147 points in the table – the club’s highest ever finish and points tally at BUCS Short Course.

The Redbrick Crossword

Successfully complete the crossword and you could win a £5 voucher for food at any GO restaurant in University Centre!

Across Please send a picture of your completed crossword to crossword@redbrick.me or fill in this form and put your completed crossword in the Redbrick pigeon hole in Student Development.

Name: Email Address: Phone Number:

4. You'd hardly take it for a drive (6) 7. It's in South Carolina (8) 8. Hits a boundary, perhaps (6) 10. Comparatively correct (5) 13. Tea for the cleaner? (4) 14. There may be oil in it (4) 15. Shoot up (4) 16. A sort of party (3) 17. European territory (4) 19. One of two (4) 21. They have their themes (9) 23. It's dead quiet! (4) 24. White river? (4) 26. Bob takes nine to be an even number!

(3) 27. Look roguishly (4) 29. Possibly opts to discontinue (4) 32. It's the most one can do (4) 33. The weight of old age? (5) 34. Give accent to (6) 35. It's gained by climbing (8) 36. Though married, she was prudish (6)

Down

1. They have a bed on boad (5) 2. In which there may be many stamps (5) 3. Poet figuring in two marriages! (4) 4. An old Turkish title (5) 5. The god in Lost Horizon (4) 6. A leggy team? (6) 9. A buysiness get-together (6) 11. Something good, yet strange (3) 12. A well-known place for the composition of poems (5) 13. Ron appears in special head-gear (7) 15. Though stuypid, he has an important function in the plant (3) 16. The husband's? (3) 18. Goes easily when mabel's upset? (6) 20. Twist or strew around (5) 21. He should know which course to take (3) 22. Safest thing to call the boss! (3) 23. Suppressed evidence of amusement (6) 25. He's so naive, at first (3) 28. It is often composde by a child (5) 30. Calculate how to get a child out of bed (3,2) 31. Scott, perhaps? (5) 32. It may be baked (4) 33. Send abroad, perhaps (4)

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32 21st November - 4th December 2014

redbrick.me/sport

Sport

P 28 - Fan's Eye View: Ched Evans

Brum Women cruise past Nottingham Trent Sports Editor Alex Kronenberg reports on a return to form for the UoB Women's Football 1st team game against bottom of the league Nottingham Trent Alex Kronenberg

Womens's Football 1st's

Sports Editor

Birmingham 1st's

3

On a bitterly cold afternoon, Birmingham Women's Football team were in high spirits as Coach Gemma Davies ran the team through the warm up. The side looked eager to bounce back from their defeat to Durham last Wednesday and this showed after only the first minute. A long free-kick from the halfway line was missed by everyone in the box and almost caught out the unsuspecting Trent keeper, who tipped it onto the cross bar and out.

After ten minutes there had been some slick interchanges between right-back Pip Cassidy and centre-midfielder Aoife Mannion. Cassidy's driving runs from the full-back position were a defining feature of the first half and Trent really struggled to cope with them. 15 minutes into the the first half Goalkeeper Amy Edwards appeared to be suffering with a bout of sickness and there was speculation that one of the outfield substitutes would have to gear up for a stint between the sticks. Thankfully she was able to carry on playing, as a change of 'keeper while the game was scoreless would not have been ideal by any means.

On 22 minutes Cassidy crossed the ball in deep from the right which resulted in what should have been a tap-in for the first goal of the game. 30 minutes in to the game

Notts Trent 1st's

0

with a well-taken half volley from the edge of the box. Their hard work was rewarded moments later when Alex Francis headed home from a corner, scoring the side's first goal of the season from a set piece. The goal was thoroughly deserved and, in truth, they could have been up by more after the first 45 minutes.

The Nottingham Trent coach was visibly (and audibly) disappointed with his team at half time, questioning their desire and reminding them that relegation could be on the cards. It seemed harsh, as Birmingham were ruthless in their play and simply didn't allow Trent the time or space to play their own game.

After the restart Birmingham did not sit back. Eve McGill caused more havoc for Trent's right-back, with a couple of mazy runs down the left wing which were unlucky not to result in anything. Aoife Mannion also continued to stamp her authority in centre midfield, with most of the play run-

ning through her with some neat interchanges with the advancing full-backs. Nell Boxall was the next player to have a shot at goal, when the ball sat up perfectly for a volley, but was denied by the Trent 'keeper.

On the 65 minute mark a 25 yard shot from Mannion was parried by the keeper and tapped in, but the goal was ruled out by the linesman. The all-important second goal was getting closer, but the longer it stayed 1-0 the more Trent grew in confidence as

"The all-important second goal was getting closer, but the longer it stayed 1-0 the more Trent grew in confidence" they created more chances in the second half. Nottingham Trent's goalkeeper was performing some real heroics, making save after save and keeping her side in the game.

Coach Davies felt a change was required and brought on Nadia Bacciochi, who's fresh legs and running in behind put the tiring Trent defence under the cosh. Within minutes, Alison Hall had headed Birmingham in front from an Aoife Mannion free-kick. Super-sub Bacciochi then made it

"The goal was thoroughly deserved and, in truth, they could have been up by more after the first 45 minutes" Birmingham had registered 7 shots with 4 on target. Trent didn't trouble Birmingham's defence on the rare occasions where they regained possession and it showed, with them managing only 2 shots in the first half.

Shaz Buckle in the Birmingham defence was solid, sweeping up whenever Trent broke past the midfield. Towards the end of the half Eve McGill stepped up, causing problems down the right wing, providing a couple of nice through balls through to the strikers.

With 40 minutes gone, Birmingham were millimetres away from breaking the deadlock when Alison Hall hit the cross bar

Peter Saxon

3-0, tapping in after the 'keeper had made yet another good save from a close-range header. Come the final whistle, Birmingham had more than done enough to win the game and were visibly delighted with the result and their performance. A rousing rendition of "You are my Birmingham" followed and summed up the camaraderie within this strong squad.

After the game, I caught up with 1st team coach Gemma Davies who was equally happy with her team: Alex Kronenberg (AK): How did you feel the game went for your side?

Gemma Davies (GD): We were absolutely dominant for the whole 90 minutes.

It was our most organised performance of the season and the change to 4-4-2 from our usual 4-2-3-1 worked well. In the past few games we have been the dominant side Saxonbut this but struggled to finish Peter our chances, afternoon it all seemed to click. I'm very proud of the side today.

AK: Having taken 27 shots, with 16 on target, but only producing 3 goals do you feel much more could have been done today?

GD: Before the game I tried to encourage the girls to take more shots today, reminding them that you miss 100% of the shots you don't take! We identified from this fixture last year that their goalkeeper could be exposed and it paid off for us today.

AK: You had a lot of success down the wings today, with the fullbacks bombing on in support. Is this something you've worked on in training?

GD: Yes, it is something we have practised in training and it really helped us today. We said at half time that it was where we were dominating Trent and getting most of our joy. I told the girls to keep exploiting these areas and in the second half we were rewarded with the two goals.

AK: How will this result affect your preparations for next week?

GD: As I said before we have been dominant in all our other games, but just not as clinical as we could have been. We will continue with the 4-4-2 which worked so well for us today, instead of reverting back to 4-2-3-1 and try and keep it much the same for the game against Northumbria next week. It will be a big game as they are a good side, so hopefully we can carry on our good form.