Redbrick - 7th November 2014

Redbrick

Est. 1936

7th - 20th November 2014 Vol. 79. Issue 1453. www.redbrick.me

Student Hub to open in September Student services to be centralised ÂŁ12.5 million refurbishment New 250-seat lecture theatre and seminar rooms Page 4

Student Finance under scrutiny New report suggests student loan overhaul Average student loan runs out in six weeks Page 5

Sarah Dougherty explains why the Guild is 'more than just a bar'

Courtney Barclay debates the place of feminism in modern society

Jennifer Cook compares ways to enjoy a Brummie curry

Vafa Motamedi reviews the edgy new thriller Nightcrawler

Comment / Page 7

Life&Style / Page 16

Food / Page 20

Film / Page 25

02 7th - 20th November 2014

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News Tweet of the Week

Society Spotlight Vinyl Society Come and join our very own Sports Editor Alex Kronenberg in his other guise as a member of the Vinyl Society: 'We have a collection of over 100 records ranging over many genres including Pop, Rock, Soul, Jazz, Electronic, Classical and many more. Members can borrow our records from our collection at our weekly gatherings. We also encourage members to bring a record along to swap with someone for the week and try something new!' You can also borrow the society's own record player if you need to.

Email: vinyl@guild.bham.ac.uk www.facebook.com/groups/584266971679523 Photo of the Week: xpLosION 2014 Eriana Wijaya

@GuildOfStudents 'One of our favourite photos from Fab N Halloween. Did you make it onto the Joe's Bar page too?'

Online in Redbrick News

'Big Hoot' raises half £million for hospital Over 100 individually decorated owls are set to flock into the city of Birmingham next summer as part of a 10 week art event in aid of Birmingham Children’s Hospital. ‘The Big Hoot’ will feature the 5ft 4ins birds in a trail across the city and its suburbs which will lead visitors around Birmingham’s most famous landmarks as well as areas less traveled in search of the owls.

Redbrick Editorial Team Editor James Phillips editor@redbrick.me Deputy Editors Adam Rowe George Bearman deputy@redbrick.me Digital Editor Julia Yan digital@redbrick.me

Comment Editors Charlie Moloney Daniella Bassett James Lentschner Jonathan Simpson Julia Bayer

Music Editors Jack Crowe Ludo Cinelli Matt Moody music@redbrick.me

comment@redbrick.me

Life&Style Editors Amy Wakeham Bethany Barley Elizabeth Green lifestyle@redbrick.me

Sport Editors Alex Kronenberg Aman Harees Tom Dodd sports@redbrick.me

Lead Developer Andrew Spencer Culture Editors developer@redbrick.me Ben Carver Charlotte Spence culture@redbrick.me News Editors Sabrina Dougall Film Editors Tara Dein Hayley Allanson Vanessa Browne Jay Crosbie Vedika Bahl Tom Lofkin news@redbrick.me film@redbrick.me

Travel Editors Hannah Stevens Jessica Flanagan Sara Tryon travel@redbrick.me Television Editors Jaffrina Jahan Shannon Carey tv@redbrick.me

Sci&Tech Editors Emma Houghton Rachel Taylor tech@redbrick.me

Food Editors Rosie Twells Safiyyah Gareeboo Sarah Dickinson food@redbrick.me Photography Editors Cherona Chapman Evie Ford

Senior Editorial Assistant Toria Brook-Hill ea@redbrick.me Editorial Assistants Anna Gunn Amy Hunt Emma Roper Gurnesha Bola Jen Payne Jess Allsopp Rachel Deevey Sophie Preece Stefan Pace

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Designed and typeset by Redbrick Copyright (C) Redbrick 2014 The views expressed in Redbrick do not necessarily reflect those of Apologies: We would like to apologise to the editors, the Guild or the publishers. If you find an error of fact in Isma Azad whose name was incorrectly our pages, please write to the Editor. Our policy is to correct misspelt in the last issue. Also, photos credited takes promptly in print and to apologise where appropriate. We to Peter Saxon on Page 2 and Page 6 are reserve the right to edit any article, letter or email submitted for actually the work of Diego Sideburns/Flickr publication.

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7th - 20th November 2014

03

NUS withdraw support for National student demonstration Tara Dein News Editor

@taradein

A national student demonstration is due to take place in central London, on 19th November, ending at parliament.

The event is organized 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. The Facebook page, which has attracted more than 3,000 guests, states ‘the move marks an escalation of opposition to the government’s programme of fees and privatisation in education and will provide a spark for further action’.

"This demonstration presents an unacceptable risk, is not accessible and does not meet the minimum expectations our members would expect" However, the NUS who previously voted to formally endorse the demonstration, and encourage unions to mobilise for it, have released a statement outlining why they are no longer in a position to support it. Released by Toni Pearce, the NUS President, the statement reads, ‘The real-

Millie Guy ity we are confronted with is that this demonstration presents an unacceptable level of risk, is not accessible and does not meet the minimum expectations our members would expect for an action that carries NUS support’.

Concerns surrounding the demonstration include lack of accessibility for disabled students, an absence of public liability insurance in place and inadequate measures to mitigate against significant risks. The statement says, ‘We do not believe there is sufficient time between now and the

UoB Islamic Society holds Charity Week Taahira Khan News Reporter

Charity Week fever spread across campus last week. Hosted by the Islamic Society (ISOC), it aimed to raise as much money during one week of the year to help orphans and needy children around the world.

The committee stated that Charity Week was started at the University of Birmingham eight years ago, becoming the first university to take part in the week outside of London.

Charity is a ‘fundamental core part of our way of life’ says one of the team, referring to one of the Five Pillars of Islam being the giving of aid, when asked why Charity Week was so important to the ISOC. She elaborated, ‘We see Charity Week as an opportunity to create unity and tranquility on campus - everyone should be happy to work together for such a noble cause so this can be a convenient catalyst for promoting cohesion on campus’.

"We see Charity week as an opportunity to create unity and tranquility on campus everyone should be happy to work together" Around £4000 was raised last year. ISOC aimed to beat this and held various events throughout the week to raise money. Highlights this year included: a beauty bazaar with the special attendance of YouTube star, ‘Nabiilabee’, a general knowledge quiz and a dinner later during the week.

This year, the committee focused on raising money for orphans. Charity Week is partnered with Islamic Relief, one

of the world’s largest and far reaching NGOs that operate ‘regardless of race, political affiliation, gender or belief’.

They stressed that the money raised would be invested in improving the long-term prospects of orphans around the world by, for example, building or repairing orphanages, water pumps and funding education for orphans. A member of the team told Redbrick that through this charity an orphan ‘who was funded to go to school with money from the project' later on returned to the same school as a teacher.

A team member said that the main difference between this year and last year’s Charity Week was scale. Whereas only a handful of people were involved in producing the timetable of events last autumn, this year the society has a 19 person committee and over 60 volunteers.

The final total raised will be announced at round off dinner to be held in two weeks (date to be confirmed). To find out more about Charity Week and the ISOC at UOB you can like the ISOC’s Facebook page, ‘UBISoc (University of Birmingham Islamic Society)’.

demonstration for these risks to be mitigated’.

‘NUS has policy to support free education, and we will continue to lobby and campaign for this, but no action that we take should be put above the ability for all our members to be safe. We have gone to considerable lengths to help change that position, by working with the organisers, but that time has now run out’.

The Guild of Students has organised a coach to the demo which will take place in two weeks.

04 7th - 20th November 2014

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News

Redbrick Exclusive: University of Birmingham School Principal Mike Roden interview New head talks academic inclusivity, 'character education' and teacher training Vanessa Browne News Editor

@nessabrowne94

Taahira Khan News Reporter

The University of Birmingham School, a university funded secondary school and sixth form, is opening in September 2015. The first school of its kind, it hopes to provide an independent, private style education without the fees and admissions tests. Redbrick interviewed Michael Roden, the recently appointed head teacher, for more information.

Roden, former head of the grammar school King Edward’s VI Camp Hill School for Boys, stated that ‘seven new secondary schools need to be built in the next three years’ in Birmingham to keep up with the demand for school places; one of the reasons for the University building the new school.

He further added that the focus of the school would be on encouraging students to get into universities, particularly the Russell Group.

The school’s timetable layout will be one of its most distinctive features. Roden has designed the school week to include six hour days from 8:30am to 4:30pm, totalling a thirty hour week for both pupils and teachers - twenty percent more than most schools.

This is because a core focus of the school will be ‘character development’, which was described as taught, relevant life lessons that would allow the students to become ‘flourishing citizens who would make wise choices and be able to play their part in society’.

These will range from tips on how to present one’s self, touch typing, sports and first aid.

These classes would be a compulsory part of the school week, whereas these would be voluntary in most other schools. Roden conceded that there would be a more flexible take on structure, ‘as long as we can aca-

demically achieve what we need to, there’s no reason as a free school that we need to have the same [length] terms as everybody else’.

The school is also designed for teacher training, and Roden was quick to state that it would not be a ‘social experiment’ of teacher training. Instead he hoped that school would be at the ‘forefront of teacher training’, with it having facilitates such as electronic streaming of lessons in which the trainees could watch lessons going on from elsewhere. The Schools Direct programme would also then leave the students with a PGCE qualification, and potentially employment at the school.

Regarding student inclusivity, Roden

remarked that the University School is a ‘school for everyone’, due to the lower school being free and non-selective, as well as having many resources for students with special educational needs. However, although the lower school will have no entry requirements or exams, the sixth form centre will have selective entry requirement. When questioned whether he thought that this would alienate the mixed-ability lower school, Roden explained, ‘we wanted to make sure in first few years that we would recruit people who could get ABB grades at A level’.

‘I’m aware of the difference. I’d love to get to a position where we could offer things so that all our children could stay on. That’s

what I’m starting to think about now. There’s no reason why, if you’re not going to get the [selective] grades at a level, we can’t use skills sessions get you on to an apprenticeship’.

He went on to comment on the University’s links with many large businesses, which the school will be utilising for its students. ‘We are establishing a link with a with a major IT company who will build a data centre close to the school and [potentially] offer apprenticeships for the school it might be that you choose to go into apprenticeship, rather than go onto A levels’ The school has received a largely positive response by both the public and the media; it is oversubscribed for first choice applicants, and has been approached by Channel 4 to do a piece on character education. Roden credits this in part to the University of Birmingham’s involvement, saying that it ‘doesn’t hurt’, to be closely affiliated with a Russell Group institution.

However, in terms of University students’ concerns about the school using their resources, Roden responded that he could ‘understand the issue - that you’re paying nine thousand pounds [for university facilities]’. He elaborated by maintaining that the school would potentially organise planned trips to the university during off-peak times like Wednesday afternoons, but that students would not have any free reign over resources ‘at the expense of University students’. He also detailed potential joint ventures between students, such as Plans to get University and sixth form students to do work experience in primary schools.

When asked how he felt about the schools impending opening, Roden replied that he was ‘equally excited and petrified’, explaining, ‘at my last school, I think I was the tenth headmaster of the school, and I always thought “what was it like to be the first person?” And now I am. And you know that in what you do, you’ll be creating history.’

Student Hub coming to Aston Webb Tom Redgrave News Reporter

The University of Birmingham has chosen to centralise many of the student services into the core of the university campus, due to open at the start of the next academic year. The £12.5 million project involves the entire remodelling of block C of the Aston Webb Building, into a 'Student Hub'.

The services to relocate to the Hub include the Careers Network, Student Enquiry Services, International Students Advisory Service, Student Records, Student Funding Office and Student Support.

Additionally, the Information Centre will use self-service software, answering students’ queries at first contact where possible and coordinating between relevant services, booking and viewing appointment.

Chris Twine, director of Student Services told Redbrick, ‘We avoid calling it a “one-stop shop” but it is bringing together services that work closely together and have a similar look, feel and interaction’. A second year student working part-time in

for the university also commented, ‘It sounds like a good idea if it means student will know exactly where they need to go for whatever their issues are. It’ll speed up processes to help them and waiting times’.

The remodelling of the whole interior of the grade II listed building included extensive consultation between the architects, council and English Heritage, to ensure that the modern facilities do not permanently alter the historical building.

The new facilities will see computers installed in the Information Centres, as well as a 250-seat lecture theatre, seminar and meeting rooms, and space for 200 fulltime staff. Additionally increased insulation is set to increase the energy efficiency of the building from grade F to grade B. The project is being led by Interserve, the same company currently constructing the University’s new sports centre.

Interserve’s regional director, Simon Butler, commented that, ‘working on a project of this nature, undertaking the refurbishment of one of the University’s historic buildings is a great opportunity and allows us to build on our relationship with the University of Birmingham’.

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7th - 20th November 2014

05

Student loans should be scrapped, says report

Average student spends their loan in under six weeks

Rocco Campanaro

Amber Reidy

News Writer

@watchrocco

A recent report published by a panel of experts suggests that universities should scrap student loans and be replaced with a tax levied on graduates’ future earnings to be paid back to their university.

The measures, suggested by a body of experts from the Institute for Economic Affairs (IEA), proposes students sign contracts with their university and agree to pay a certain percentage of their future earnings once salaries reach a specific level.

The levy or ‘graduate tax’ would vary depending on the course taken. The report suggests that this measure is a more viable approach than the current ‘malfunctioning’ and ‘badly designed’ student loan system.

The incentive would be for universities and colleges to invest more time and effort in producing well-prepared, strong graduates in the highly-competitive work market as universities’ as income would be dependent on graduates finding well-paid, stable jobs.

However, critics of the idea note that this will result in a rise in the cost of university education and a limit on the number of places and courses offered to students.

It is also unclear as to whether this tax would apply to both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

Under the current system, students from England and Wales pay back their student loans once they earn above twenty-one thousand pounds per annum. The loan is written off after thirty years.

A second year Psychology student told Redbrick that she was concerned that if the proposal was put into action, the variety of courses may be restricted to those that appear to give the highest financial return from graduates, such as business and medicine.

However, some students support the idea. Cassie Watt, a Business Management student, commented, ‘I think the measures suggested are a good idea. It will reduce the burden of financial constraints most students take into consideration when applying to university and gives universities the opportunity to improve on the careers advice they provide us’.

News Writer A survey, conducted on behalf of VoucherCodes.co.uk has stated that students will have spent their maintenance loans by the 18th October. This is less than six weeks into the first semester. The poll, based on responses from 1500 students, found that 78% students regularly felt troubled by their finances, whilst 14% of students regularly skipped meals due to a lack of available funds.

Research also revealed that financial troubles had a detrimental effect upon student learning: 1 in 5 students claim to have trouble concentrating in lectures due to financial concerns, whilst 17% said they could not afford the course material they were required to buy. UoB student Rebekah Coates told Redbrick that ‘I would not be able to afford my textbooks if my parents did not supplement my income’. She added, ‘I was so worried about not having enough money for my second year that I changed banks so that I could have a bigger overdraft’.

Statistics gathered that related specifi-

G N I K O O C S ’ O WH ?

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cally to UoB students found that 67% students worried about finances more often than not, 23% felt that didn’t have time to study because they had to fund their degree and one in three felt they could not afford the study materials for their course. It also showed that one in five students at UoB had to borrow money from friends or family in order to fund university life.

"One in five students had to borrow money from family or friends to fund university" The Student Money Survey 2014 discovered the average expenditure of a student per month was £735, whilst the maintenance loan equated to only £458 per month. Therefore students had to supplement income with more than just the loan.

VoucherCodes.co.uk found that 65% students have a part-time job in which to do this, though 60% of students will still go to their parents if they are experiencing financial difficulties. It also found that 57% students use their overdraft chiefly as a fall back.

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06 7th- 20th November 2014

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News Birmingham

Birmingham City Council cuts services and strategies Isma Azad

News Reporter

Birmingham City Council have announced that they are finalising the decisions for its green paper budget cuts for the 2014/2015 year. The council and its leader, Sir Albert Bore, is faced with £150 million in budget cuts for the coming year, including the loss of around 6,000 jobs in the next few years.

The cuts have been placed in order of importance and priority, with lower level services expected to be the first to be affected.

The Arts and Culture sector, such as the Birmingham’s Ballet Theatre, and the Symphony Orchestra is highly important to the City Council due to the revenue it generates from the international market and the benefits it brings to Birmingham’s economy.

Additionally, a mass of tourism is generated, hence it is less likely for this sector to be the first few services to be affected in the cuts.

Bore stated, ‘Any other city across Europe would provide what we do because they are what they are,’ in regards to the high level of priority placed on the arts and museums.

However, the services of schools, for example zebra crossings, the funding of lollipop ladies, catering and cleaning is at risk of being cut altogether. It is possible schools may have to provide the funding for these services themselves through the direct education budgets provided by government.

Bore recently commented, 'There is now a debate to be had with schools as to whether they provide those services from the dedicated schools budget’.

During his Chamberlain talk, on the 14th October about ‘What’s next for local government’, Bore explained in depth the plans for the future of Birmingham and the green paper budget, which will be finalised in the next month.

He called for there to be three major shifts in the council’s strategies: To be able to ‘devolve funding and responsibility for a range of economic functions such as infra-

"Any other city across Europe would provide what we do because they are what they are" structure investment, skills and welfare to work to city regions’; To ‘pool funding for public services into “whole place” budgets for local authorities, enabling’ the council ‘to integrate services and provide them according to local needs’; and for there to be ‘fiscal devolution to give us [Birmingham City Council] the tools to determine our own future, to provide sustainable services and to drive economic growth’.

Students raise awareness about 1984 Sikh violence Sabrina Dougall News Editor

@sabrina_dougall

The event, organised by the British Organisation of Sikh Students (BOSS), marks exactly 30 years since Sikhs were killed in attacks in India in 1984.

Around a dozen students gathered at Victoria Square on Saturday, including several from Aston University and the University of Birmingham. They handed out leaflets to the public explaining the history of the November 1984 violence against Sikhs in Punjab.

The campaign saw a stage erected with speakers and screens telling the story of the 1984 killings. A pick-up truck was bedecked with remembrance wreaths and a banner which read, ‘India’s Hidden Genocide’. The public were given the chance to light candles as part of the commemoration of the lives that were lost during that time.

In 1984, the Indian government launched an attack on Sikhs in the Golden Temple shrine in Amritsar, Punjab. The military action was known as Operation Bluestar. Estimates for the number of people killed range from 1,000 to around 2,700.

In the days after the 1984 attack, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was assassinated by Sikh bodyguards. Unrest

swelled, and anti-Sikh riots in New Delhi saw 3000 civilians killed within days.

Further government attacks were launched on Sikhs in India, which BOSS term ‘a wave of ethnic cleansing’.

The Indian government has long avoided openly terming the 1984 massacres a genocide, instead reporting it as a riot.

The students at the campaign were also keen to highlight the after-effects of what they believe to be attacks coordinated by the Indian government. They

"Birmingham is one of the most multicultural cities in the UK- we live side by side with so many cultures "

place so much more beautiful.’

She went on to say: ‘With the atrocities of the genocide of 1984, we will continue to raise awareness until justice is served.’

The awareness event follows the annual march in London which saw thousands take to Trafalgar Square in June.

The campaign comes just days after the Indian government announced it will compensate the kin of 3000 people killed in the November massacre.

In January of this year it was announced that David Cameron would launch an urgent investigation into a possible British

explained that a generation of women remain unmarried due to the number of Sikh men killed in the turmoil.

Sukhjit Kaur is a graduate from the University of Birmingham and is now Executive Assistant at BOSS. As an organiser of the event, Kaur explained that the campaign raises awareness of Sikh’s ‘shared history’ with Britain.

Kaur told Redbrick: ‘Birmingham is one of the most multicultural cities within the UK, and we live side by side with so many different cultures. There’s such a rich history in that, and if we can share that with each other then it just makes the

EGX game fest moves to NEC Danyal Hussain

News Writer The gaming event attracted 75,000 people last year, with CEO Rupert Loman confident that the move will help EGX grow even more. ‘We see the move to the NEC not only as a real opportunity to continue its success, but also to evolve and improve the experience we offer both attendees and exhibitors’.

With the various gaming societies on

campus having over 500 members, the

"campus gaming societies have over 500 members" move will undoubtedly please students at the University of Birmingham, especially as the NEC is only 10 minutes away from Birmingham City Centre. Student Aaron Dempsey agrees, as he believes that

‘Ultimately it will just allow people who haven't been to the event before, due to travel, to actually attend, although some London gamers may be turned off’. He reaffirms just how positive the move is for UoB students, ‘For students in Birmingham of course it's a good thing!’

The NEC has hosted various gaming events in the past, such as GAMEfest, and with the gaming industry being worth billions to the UK economy, this is a major coup for the City and UoB gamers.

link with the 1984 massacre.

The campaign in Birmingham also sought to promote awareness of the Sikh service in the British Military.

Kaur told Redbrick: ‘It’s a hundred years since World War One, so it’s great to show the world that 109,000 Sikhs gave their lives for the Allies and for the British Army.’

A remembrance service was held outside the Wolverhampton Civic Centre on Sunday 14th September to pay tribute to the Sikh soldiers who died in World War One and the Battle of Saragarhi in 1897.

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7th - 20th November 2014

07

Comment

Guild Council is back. Why don't you care?

Sarah Dougherty

LGBTQ Guild Councillor @sduob With little fanfare and no less than three days late, the results for our annual Guild Council Elections were released on Thursday the 30th October 2014. An unimpressive total of 1237 students voted, which some envelope mathematics suggests is less than 5% of the eligible body of over 28,000 students. This follows two recent referenda which ran for 47 days and struggled to reach even half of their 10% quoracy threshold, so it isn’t unprecedented. But why does the Guild keep failing to engage students, and what does it have to offer us?

First, I have a disclaimer. I’ve been elected to Guild Council for the third year in a row, this time as an LGBTQ open place representative. I was unopposed and got 61 votes. While this is great for me, and allows me to continue using my experience with the Guild to make liberation campaigns better and put students at the heart of Guild policy, instead of streamlined management from the top and the outside, it’s hardly the vote of confidence you’d want for a claim to democratic legitimacy.

This is overwhelmingly because the Guild is something of a dirty word to students. When I say 'Sabbatical Officers', most people think of misfires like the Zero Tolerance policy – aka Sombrerogate – or, more recently, Breathalysergate. The fact that West Midlands Police has ten local businesses, the Guild among them, partaking in this policy seems to have been sidelined in the interests of attacking the Guild, as if somehow they could stop something which seems largely imposed from above in exchange for continuing to keep their trading licence. It’s very easy to attack the Sabbs, but why would we want to?

A significant problem seems to be communication. The new Guild website was launched in August and browsing it ranges anywhere from clunky and unintuitive to obtrusive and uninviting. News posts on social media are few and far between; announcements and engagements with stu-

dents low for something which reports 7000 or so students involved through societies alone. Sabbs themselves are spread thinly and expected to work at all hours of the day, ready to reply to a Facebook message at 4am and be fresh faced for a 10am meeting.

Translated from Newspeak, staff 'restructuring' means the full-time support behind the scenes is being stripped down, and col-

lectively this suggests we won’t see any improvements soon.

Budget-trimming at the Guild is nothing new, though. It has an annual expenditure of £4.3m; about half of which comes directly from the University of Birmingham, with the rest sourced from franchising, Fab bar sales, and other interests you can find in their annual accounts. As a charity support-

ing over 240 student groups, hundreds of full- and part-time staff, and fighting for space in a charming but limited building, it seems clear that Guild is only commercially viable to a point. Far be it from me to suggest that Dear Leader Eastwood should allocate some more of the university’s multi-million annual surplus in our block grant to facilitate student investment in the Guild, but why should he? The case isn’t being made.

What does the Guild offer?

Radical though it sounds, the Guild is a students' union. It primarily exists to maximise our student experience. To borrow an old phrase, it’s more than 'just a bar' we retreat to for cheap, disappointing pints of Snakebite.

It’s where we lobby the university for meaningful change in our education; the new course reps scheme offers real potential to have an input in our own degrees, so our departments can see what is and, more importantly, what isn’t working. We lobby our letting agencies to offer a fairer deal for students through our collective power, rather than be a captive audience full of loaned money ready to donate to landlords who aren't ever challenged by us. It’s where we can make friends for life through societies, bonding over our shared passions while gaining skills that make employers salivate with excitement.

So where does the Guild Council fit into this? Council is where a lot of these decisions are made. Council is where we can mandate officers to do things, which is a binding requirement to act in our democratic interests. Council is where we can pass Guild policy which protects students from things such as sexism, racism and homophobia, enabling even the marginalised to have their voices freely heard. Council is where we can set the rules of our Guild, not just meekly follow the whims of those in charge.

The Council isn’t perfect, and nor is the Guild, but from the inside we can make it more useful, rather than shouting at it inefIliff fectually from the outside. With thatDavid in mind, I hope to see you at the Council Chambers on the 13th November 2014 at 6pm. It’s going to be a good year.

The State of Student Politics at UoB

Danyal Hussain

Commentator As we enter a general election year, politics is in even sharper focus than usual on a national scale. The campaigns have started, with the various would-be MPs beginning their propaganda programmes. Is this increased interest reflected amongst young people and university students? Well, it would seem so. The University of Birmingham’s Labour Society has reported a 200% increase in membership, whilst the Conservative Future has also increased its membership size. On the 27th October 2014, there was a Tory vs Labour debate over the Coalition Government’s economic policy and that attracted 79 people, covering the different ends of the political spectrum. The Green Party and Liberal Democrats also reported an increase in membership from last year to this year, and so it is clear that there is a growing level of political participation amongst students at the University of Birmingham. However, there is a vast range of reasons as to why these increases have taken place, and we must consider whether the increase is wholly positive.

Speaking to Francesca Root, the Chair of the Labour Society on campus, it is obvious that the current state of student politics at the university has both positive and negative aspects. The positives are clear: increased membership, increased participation and an increase in active members. Furthermore, all the political societies have a wide mix of

ethnic groups in their memberships, highlighting politics as an issue relevant to all groups on campus. The reasons behind this surge in interest are numerous. Francesca reveals the committed approach of the Labour Society to social media, advertising and advocating the society to a wide range of people. This is further reflected by the significant LGBT membership of the ‘Labour Away from Labour.’ Other students point to the state of international politics as a reason for their growing interests. The events in Ukraine, Palestine and Syria and the referendum in Scotland, have all had a profound impact upon the current university generation, fuelling a burgeoning interest in the world of politics. All in all, students are more engaged, more interested and more involved in politics.

"The University of Birmingham's students are increasingly more engaged in politics, but more can be done by both the university itself and the various political societies" However, despite the positives, some negatives also plague the world of student politics. It remains male-dominated, with a vast majority of the members of the Labour society being male. Francesca revealed, in

fact, that females tend to join societies that are more ‘socially acceptable’ whilst bemoaning the fact that student politics continues to be a male-dominated sphere. This is reflected in Westminster as only 148 MPs are female out of 650 MPs. More can be done to solve this issue, at least from a student perspective; societies can undoubtedly do more to make women feel more comfortable in the political arena. Other problems include inactivity. As with many societies, some members sign up but never take part in any events. Again, it is up to the society to

appeal to and attract their members to help strengthen their own society.

The University of Birmingham’s students are increasingly more engaged in politics, but more can definitely be done by both the university itself and the various political societies to engage a wider range of students. As the general election draws nearer, perhaps engagement will increase even more.

What is clear, however, is that politics is becoming an issue that more and more people are concerned with.

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7th - 20th November 2014

Comment

The faults in 'The Fault in Our Stars' Dean Eastmond Commentator

Love it or hate it, there is no denying that John Green’s novel, and newly produced screenplay, has made millions of dollars whilst raising a fair few eyebrows. With the ever-nearing release date of the teenage 'tragedy' on DVD, I think it’s time some things are made clear.

For the Caucasian Heterosexual American teen, TFIOS creates an idealistic (minus the cancer), yet far from realistic, portrayal of love and teenage relationships.

The book/film sets out a fast-paced 'love story', with no sense of conflict nor friction and constant pretentious undertones. But 'it’s a metaphor', right?

I personally enjoyed both the book and film, and it’s certainly aided the growth of a culture where reading is popular and a social norm. But this does not negate the problems within it. As they say, making a rose pretty doesn’t eradicate the thorns underneath.

If John Green is proposing what a 'dream boy' is, he really isn’t executing it well. A guy who stares at you in group therapy and woos you with clichéd metaphors is the dominant and typical, but not the moral or revolutionary, ideal. The thought of an arrogant, selfish white male buying love through the romanticisation of cancer sickens me.

Not only does Green taint the love story with 'unrealistic desirability', but also taints the female protagonist. In some ways, it’s great that an intellectually-stim-

ulated girl is dominant, but Hazel Grace is far from the feminist icon. At the beginning of the story, we become aware that Hazel has depression whilst dying of cancer. We also only see her breaking away from her depression when under the influence of a male character.

Yes, teenage love is a part of life and is obviously going to be enjoyed, but Augustus Waters is not a professional therapist and cannot cure Hazel's depression. By giving an aspirational character such a delicate and dark mental illness, the 'sad culture' is created and the glorification begins. This could be argued down to the fact that Hazel may be relatable to some, but this most likely is not the case.

I repeat, to be broken is not something someone should wish to become.

The trip Augustus and Hazel take to Amsterdam seems charming, however the scene in which they kiss in Anne Frank’s bedroom sums up the whole novel. It made

me feel sick. Being two white, straight teenagers living in the 21st century, chances are that they have never experienced genocide (just a guess of course), and the scene leaves a bitter taste in the mouths of anyone with any set of morals. 'But it’s just fiction' you may say. With novels such as this becoming a large part of today’s popular culture, such ideology is deeply institutionalised and seems normal. Yes, it is important for a story to have a storyline, but to narrow the killing of millions of Jews into a kiss between two privileged people is deeply concerning.

It’s not just the content that has proved offensive, but the reaction it has caused within young teenage, predominantly female, communities. Many readers of the book or purveyors of the film cannot distinguish between realism and fiction.

Stories like this do not exist in the form that they are in. From the idolisation of Augustus Waters to the severity of their

illnesses, the audience forget to realise that these children are sick, really sick; this is a glorified tale.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with writing about a love story between cancer patients.

What is wrong is the way that their diseases seem like the background issue to the story. They are suffering. They are dying. Nothing about that is desirable.

What is sad is that if the story was “dirtied up” with realness, it would cause less flaws, but make less money. Western issues, eh?

I think it’s great that John Green has managed to re-capture the attention of young audiences with literature, and his use of SOME feminist ideas is great to see. But it’s extremely flawed.

So if you’ve recently seen the film or read the book: * You are not a grenade waiting to blow up and destroy all around you. That is neither inspirational nor aspirational. You are what you make of your situation and you grow from that. * You will not fall in love after having some guy who’s in the same boat as you creepily stare at you. * The Make-A-Wish Foundation is a beautiful establishment, but the way it was used as a tool to romanticise their condition and disregard the fact that Hazel has cancer, is not. * Your life is not written in the stars to, oh so carefully, be broken down. That’s why they teach Shakespeare in schools, not John Green.

Okay? Okay.

'Happy British Muslims'?

Olivia Beesley Commentator

On 21st November 2013, Grammy Award -winning rapper Pharrell Williams released the much-loved music video to his song 'Happy'. Instantly, hundreds of similar videos began to spring up on social media – all portraying people in specific localities, communities and groups that declared they too were 'happy'. While this was briefly entertaining, my interest was reignited five months later when a group calling themselves 'The Honesty Policy' emerged onto the scene.

"They wanted to 'rethink the rulebook' and find identity for a 'previously disenfranchised Muslim generation'" 'We are anonymous', they stated, claiming that integrity didn’t need a face. However, this anonymity has also been beneficial to their personal safety as of late. Just in April 2014, the group of British Muslims released a typical 'Happy' video just like any other.

But one thing was different about this: the controversy that was about to erupt around them.

The video was very specifically entitled 'Happy British Muslims' and portrayed just what it said on the tin. The participants were young and old, male and female, the eminent (Dean of the Cambridge Muslim College, Timothy Winters) and the unknown. While to many this appeared to be a light-hearted video, just like any other, 'The Honesty Policy' knew many members of the wider Muslim community would not be smiling. In fact, this was the whole purpose behind the

project – to create a controversy and spark and dialogue.

Despite being a theology and religion student, when I first saw the video of the group of Muslims dancing and singing to Pharrell’s song, I was ignorant to the fact that it had offended so many and led them to disgust. 'Why is this controversial?' I ignorantly asked.

The controversy lies with the Shari’a law – the moral and religious code of Islam.

It deals with the interaction with the secular sphere, sourced from the Qu’ran and Sunnah.

To some Schools of Islamic Thought, this legislation forbids dancing.

While this may be an unusual thought to many British people, ‘The Honesty Policy’ wanted to make the statement that not all Muslims in Britain agreed with this belief.

Moreover, the video presented British Muslims participating in Western culture – an action that many Muslims saw as another 'misguided' move.

So who is right?

The answer to this question lies in a grey area.

Why? Because, there is not one Islam. I could not group all Christians together as unified in belief, or all Jews as unified in action, or even all British people unified in opinion (as we all know too well!). Islam, like all religions, is of a rich diversity. While diversity should be celebrated, it is also a great source of contention.

So, to answer my question, it seems that 'The Honesty Policy' and all British Muslims involved in the 'Happy' project had every right to express their beliefs, opinions and

ways of life. However, I argue that the issue lies in the way they labeled the video – 'Happy British Muslims', which has connotations of generalization: implying all British Muslims were supporting this statement video or shared these beliefs. This is a prospect that many Muslims worldwide would find sorrowful.

But 'The Honesty Policy' still claims today that a dialogue needed to be introduced surrounding religious expression – they wanted to 'rethink the rulebook' and find identity for a 'previously disenfranchised Muslim generation'. Dialogue and bold actions were the key.

Unfortunately these actions were seen as religiously undiplomatic to many.

But when did anything diplomatic create real change?

redbrick.me/comment

7th - 20th November 2014

09

'Winds of Hope' blow across Africa Jamila Nana

Commentator WAR, CORRUPTION, MALARIA, HIV, EBOLA, HUNGER: all too often, this is what comes to mind when Africa is mentioned. And, to some extent, it is the reality for the majority of the less fortunate inhabitants of this wonderful piece of land. But,

"One million people descended in the streets; occupied Parliament and the national TV's building; and made it clear that their voices were going to be heard." this week, amidst the chaos that Ebola is causing in parts of West Africa, something amazing happened. Images of citizens marching through their capital city of Ouagadougou in landlocked, impoverished Burkina-Faso filled the hearts of all the children of this continent with pride. We may just be able to start dreaming that, at last, the ideal of democracy, for which the likes of Mandela and the lesser-known Thomas Sankara paid very high prices, is finally starting to take shape.

I am naturally passionate about this topic because Burkina-Faso is the country where both my parents were born just

before it gained its independence from France. It has borders with Mali, Ghana, Niger, Benin, Togo and the Ivory Coast where I grew up and is also known as 'the country of the men of integrity'. Ranked by the UN as the world's third-poorest nation, it has few natural resources, suffers from persistent droughts and the general level of literacy is around 40% for the 15-24 year age group.

Yet, this week, its people stood up against their French- and US-backed president who wanted to extend its 27-years- in-power rule by changing their constitution. One million people descended on the streets; occupied Parliament and the national TV's building; and made it clear that their voices were going to be heard. Some sections of society had been organising themselves for months to fight this dictatorial project. I remember feeling so sceptical about the potential to

"And, beyond Africa, the people of the 'land of the men of integrity' might help to dispel some of the myths about Africa's hopelessness." overthrow the dinosaur that is Blaise Compaore, and warning a friend called Ludovic Bakyono about dangers to his life.

He had sensed what too many years of staying away from Africa had failed to dawn on

Afghanistan: the end or just the beginning?

Satya Mouland Commentator

After UK combat operations ended in Afghanistan this week, I could not help but ask why America is not following suit. Both countries had already surpassed the deadline for removing all troops of the NATO combat force several times, which was last set at the Chicago Summit in 2012 as December 2014. At least the UK is now finally handing over power to Afghan troops.

It is also somewhat surprising that the UK withdrew whilst the US extended its mandate to keep 9,800 troops in Afghanistan after the December deadline. Only a few weeks before, David Cameron predicted that Western influence would remain in the country against the 'generational struggle against Islamic Extremist Terrorists'. The question is how long the US troops will stay and what their agenda might be.

The original aim of the NATO force in Afghanistan, ISAF, was to maintain security in Kabul and the surrounding areas. The force was mandated by the Bonn Agreement in 2001, and has since extended its mandate several times. The stress was placed on providing Afghan forces with the support and training they needed, cooperating in the basis of the Afghan Compact. This was launched as a five-year programme from 2005 until 2010 to ensure co-operation between Afghanistan and the international community on issues such as security and governance.

Reports from Afghanistan tell a very different story. Intervention in Afghanistan followed 9/11 and the rise of the Taliban, in an attempt to quell the situation in a kind of prolonged war on terror. WikiLeaks has disclosed numerous unreported fatalities where troops are reported to have shot at

unarmed civilians. Human Rights Watch has confirmed the numerous civilian casualties, stating this as a "consistent trend of US and NATO forces". It therefore seems questionable as to whether the presence of US troops really serves to improve the security situation, or worsen it.

The rhetoric used by the US Government, that there is 'no purely military solution' seems to contradict its pro-military role in Afghanistan. The underlying fear is that extremist Islamists will continue to be a terrorist threat if the US do not keep some sort of presence in Afghanistan. We have seen the same in Iraq, where there were promises of democracy and freedom, and all that came

"The question is how long the US troops will stay" of the military action was more bloodshed.

One of the key failures after the Iraq war was the failure of the Bush administration to commit security forces to stabilise the collapsed socio-political and economic situation. This seems to be what Obama wishes to correct about the situation in Afghanistan so that the country is rebuilt in a way which ensures good governance and democratic values. The remaining ISAF troops are said to be training the Afghan national army.

What tends to be less emphasised is their continual conduct of counter-terrorism operations.

It has been said again that US forces will pull out completely at the end of 2014, but just as international forces including the UK pulled out of the Helmand province, the Nawzad district in the South is said to be under threat of a Taliban takeover. The Afghan National Army is reported to be adequately suppressing the threat, but with ongoing terrorist threats, is it reasonable to believe the US will leave? I am not certain.

me: that a new wind of hope is blowing across Africa. And the transitional government headed by members of the Army and former allies of the president will need to show restraint and avoid taking this victory away from those it really belongs to: 17 millions of Burkinabes.

In many other countries across the African continent, some presidents are con-

templating changing their constitutions in order to overstay their welcomes. Hopefully, Blaise Compaore finally bowing out under the vox populi might help them to reconsider their career plans.

And, beyond Africa, the people of the 'land of the men of integrity' might help to dispel some of the myths about Africa's hopelessness.

University of Birmingham

GUILD COUNCIL CHAIRS ELECTION THURSDAY 13TH NOVEMBER

GUILD COUNCIL CHAMBER, GUILD OF STUDENTS GUILD COUNCIL MUST ELECT TWO STUDENTS TO ACT AS CHAIR AND DEPUTY CHAIR OF GUILD COUNCIL FOR THE 2014-15 ACADEMIC YEAR. The Chairs of Guild Council are responsible for chairing all of the meetings of Guild Council. any meeting of Guild Council. They ensure that the meeting is run in a fair and balanced manner, and that it is open and accessible to all full members who wish to attend.

The Chairs also have to perform Steering duties before each Guild Council meeting, ensuring that agendas and papers are available to Guild Council members and that minutes and records of Guild Council are kept.

The Chair and Deputy Chair may also be asked to perform other duties from time to time, such as sitting on various Guild Committees.

Any Full Member may run to be Chair or Deputy Chair of Guild Council.

This election will be held in Guild Council, which is on Thursday 13th November 2014 at 6pm in the Guild Council Chamber.

If you wish to stand in this election you can pre-submit your nominations (we just need the name of the person you are nominating) to council@guild.bham.ac.uk or nominations will be taken in the Guild Council meeting. Please note, you can nominate yourself if you wish.

Candidates will be given the opportunity to give a speech on their suitability for the role, and there will be an opportunity for people to ask candidates questions.

For further information please email council@guild.bham.ac.uk

10 7th - 20th November 2014

redbrick.me/culture

Culture

Review: Midland

Andrea Gianni, Julia Walmsely and Katie Manzi have been taking a look at different aspects of a new book all about Birmingham.

The women in the story represent different phases of the city itself during the 1940s, 1960s, and 1980s. These women are from different times, but their stories are interwoven, taking turns to describe events of their lives out of their order of occurrence. Though this novel can be hard to follow and lacks the satisfaction of clarifying certain plot points, it is definitely a unique and interesting read.

The novel starts off with the story of the Bab, which is all the readers ever know her as. The Bab is from the time period of the 1940s. Bombs are falling from the war, and the Bab’s job is to map out where these bombs are falling, where the city is getting destroyed. She sits and listens daily to people coming in and telling her about who was injured or killed and where. At times it gets extremely overwhelming for her, and she even says that this map of

Midland: A Novel Out of Time tells the story of three women at three different points in history living in the city of Birmingham. How the author, Honor Gavin, has chosen to tell this story is very unique and, for the lack of a better word, eccentric.

Out of the three characters, only one has an actual name.

Rita, the young girl who is the last to be introduced, lives in the Birmingham of the 80’s. The other two are “the Bab” and “WW”, which stands for “Working Woman”. Each woman’s life has very little introduction, instead the narrator plows right into accounts of their lives as it happens, and in the beginning the reader is left extremely confused about who is who, and what era they were supposed to live in. If it had not been for the summary on the back of the book, it would have taken me a very long time to realize that “the bab” lived during the 40’s, and “WW” during the 60s. Even with the assistance of the summary, however, it took me a considerable amount of time, nearly 80 pages, to figure out exactly what was going on.

The narrator is often unclear. For “the Bab”, the narrator is identified as the city of Birmingham personified. The city watches her life and comments on it. However, for the other two characters there is never any indication that the narrator

"...this novel can be hard to follow and lacks the satisfaction of clarifying certain plot points, it si definitely a unique and interesting read. " hers just looks bloodied. It is covered in red from all the destruction and pain caused in the city. The Bab is representative of the time when the city is being destroyed and plans are being made to rebuild it. She lives in the mess that is the city.

The next woman encountered is known as the “WW.” She is the Working Woman, and we find out later in the novel that she is the Bab’s daughter. This woman works in construction in the 1960s to rebuild the destroyed city. We see her, along with her boyfriend Zero, and follow her as she tries to figure herself out, especially after discovering a secret kept hidden by her parents.

Finally, we have Rita. Rita is a school aged girl in the 1980s. She is the Working Woman’s daughter, and it seems that she has a name because at this point in the 1980s, times have changed. She is not just some generic categorized woman; she is her own person. Rita seems to represent the city after it has been reconstructed, though in many areas it is slightly dilapidated.

Though the idea of following the stories of these three women to represent the changes in the city is excellent, the execution of it is not done in the most coherent way. At many times this novel is slightly hard to follow and lacks the pull to keep the reader focused on the stories being told to understand them. In addition, at many points, it seems that certain major points are established and then never fully explained or even touched on again.

For example, the Bab’s husband is known throughout the story as “the other.” It is not clear at all why he does not receive a name or why he is never fully explained in

"Though the idea of following the stories of these three women to represent the changes in the city is excellent, the execution of it is not done in the most coherent way." the story. He is frequently mentioned as being away, but who he is is never clarified. A similar situation happens in the storyline of Rita as well. She refers to her father in her head as St. John, but when she speaks to him she calls him Dad. Why she calls him this is unbeknownst to the reader.

Further misconnections with the plot come from one episode where we find that Zero, the Working Woman’s boyfriend at the time, gets his hand cut off in a factory. At the end of this scene, we never hear about what happens to Zero with his hand, and next time we encounter Zero in the novel, it seems that it is before the incident and he still has all of his fingers. This type of situation is found frequently in the novel.

One of the main issues with the plot is that there does

"Sometimes, the story seems to be told as a stream of consciousness, with very little connection between the thoughts as they fly off the page..."

"Events often happened out of chronological sequence, even within the indivdual stories.

How did you decide what part of each story you wanted to reveal to the reader next?" not really seem to be one. It is just the story of three regular women going through their everyday lives, with a few hurdles to overcome here or there. If the point of this is to represent the daily life of the city and say something about the struggles and regular lives of people, I understand that, however it does not make for the most entertaining read. This is especially true when the stories jump around so frequently; it just seems hard to follow and a bit of work to do so. Emotional attachment to the characters is not achieved in this story, and many points of these women’s lives remain completely unclear.

Overall, Midland does tell the history of Birmingham through the 20th century in a unique and enlightening way, which is interesting. This novel truly made me open my mind and have to think about the reasoning Gavin used her techniques and what her purposes were.

Unfortunately, only some things were cleared up after thinking about them, and the story itself ended up giving me more questions than answers. This is a unique and interesting book, however the experimental nature leaves the reader with uncertainty and confusion.

is the same. Sometimes, the story seems to be told as a stream of consciousness, with very little connection between the thoughts as they fly by on the page, all leading up to the main thought the character is working through at the time. It is usually at that point that the chapter ends, before the main thought it fully realized, leaving the reader unsure of what is really happening in the story.

The narration plows on through the women's’ lives, moving from woman to woman with no transition, and even within their stories it jumps from past to the present and leaves the reader to figure out which event happened when.

Sometimes there are chapters that are never explained, such as clips from articles about the building of Birmingham’s inner ring road, or a graphic piece about a young man cutting his own fingers off by accident, and yet that piece is never mentioned again even though the man and his in-tact fingers feature in the story later on. There are many things in the story that are never fully explained, especially about the lives of the main characters. A brief sentence that easily could be overlooked holds more weight to the story than entire paragraphs, and yet without that tiny bit of information many things that come in the future do not make sense.

There is no beginning middle and end in this novel, rather it is stays much the same throughout. There is no real climax, and the ending does not make sense as an ending.

You eventually find out how the women are connected, and then the story ends. There is no conclusion to the stories, and you are left with no idea of what comes next. The entire novel seems to be just glimpses into the lives of these women, and that is it. In the same way it offers tiny glimpses into the life of Birmingham itself; how the city was torn apart by bombs in WW2, attempted to rebuild itself, and then crumpled apart again. This background story is clearly woven through the history of the characters, and connects them to something outside their own struggles.

Needless today I had difficulties with this book. The story the author had to tell was lost in the way she chose to tell it. After I finished the book I was left unsure of what I had just read. I have had to fill in many of the blanks myself, and am still confused of what exactly happened. As I said, this novel has a very unique style of storytelling that may appeal to certain types of people, I just am not one of them.

Read more at Redbrick online, with more disussion of the novel and an interview with the author. www.redbrick.me/culture

redbrick.me/culture

7th - 20th November 2014

11

The Rise of Online Poetry

Culture writer Dean Eastmond discusses the place poetry has in our modern world.

When poetry, or poets themselves are usually mentioned to many teens, a concoction of clichéd metaphors and boring English lessons with that teacher that everyone hated are associated. From this poetry is nowadays seen as “boring” or “old-fashioned”, and thus a dying form of art. However, with the rise of microblogging sites such as Tumblr, Twitter and Instagram, a trend once forgotten has seemingly been reborn and anyone can become the writer that their teenage angst has always told them to become late at night. From midnight journal entries to online followings, it looks like poetry is finally on the rise again.

The Internet is notoriously known and hated by linguists and writers for having changed and morphed the English Language: informalisation and slang reigns over Grammar and creativity. But it’s not all bad. The Internet has become yet another tool in the writer’s toolkit.

Anyone can publish anything about whatever they so wish, anywhere; which is beautiful.

By utilising a fast paced audience, a writer can freely publish works on social media sites, whilst receiving live feedback and criticism. For example, social media poets such as Madisen Kuhn, Tyler Knott Greyson and RM Drake are able to encapsulate and audience anywhere in the world

at any time, for free, without the danger of publishers dropping you off.

And thus a trend is created...

Thousands of online users have picked up their pens and re-joined an art form almost forgotten and blurted out waves of haikus and free verse wonders.

But what got this started?

“Vintage” is always coming into fashion. Whether this be record players, polaroid cameras, vintage clothing, typewriters, Kerouac and beat poetry, vintage will always be there. Some may suggest that the sudden spring in the world of poetry could be down the accessibility and informality of the works. Others may argue that it’s all down to celebrity endorsement, with James Franco becoming an author and Lana Del Rey singing how she gets “down to beat poetry”.

It’s possible that the positive feedback and “online fame and following” that many poets have formed through their works has proved as motivation and inspiration for many teenagers gripping onto their cultural roots. Another could be down the rise of teenage literature, with the likes of John Green and Stephen Chbosky, whom of which use literature induced characters to create style and personality. Characters such as Hazel Grace from “The Fault in our Stars” and

Charlie from “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” all show an interest towards the way of words, which for many teenagers is seen as the social norm; “to read is to be cool”.

But with every trend, comes issues. One trend leads to another and I’m sure most people are aware of teen angst culture glorifying eating disorders, depression, anxiety and self-mutilation. Historical poets such as Sylvia Plath, Charles Bukowski and Philip Larkin are all known for writing about melancholy, the human psyche and sadness and with such poets being inspiration to many young and vulnerable writers, the idea that to be broken is to be trendy is formed and thus “sad culture” is created.

Call it ignorance, naivety or the serious mocking of a delicate issue, but it’s something that needs to be addressed within the changing literary landscape. This by no means is the fault of any poet, but when micro-communities of girls hashtag their poetry with #proana (Anorexia), #blithe (a culture formed off of self-hatred) and #depression (self-explanatory), alarm bells ring.

With every light comes the dark, and with every positive comes the negative, but all in all the Internet has become such a wonderful tool for the next generation of writers to find their feet in an ever so fast paced world of writing.

Dangerous Corner: A Review Culture writer Ciaran Allanson-Campbell takes a look at fantastic production of Dangerous Corner "Let Sleeping Dogs Lie" is the phrase at the heart of "Dangerous Corner", a J.B Priestley play. The plot centres around a group of friends after a dinner party, one year after close friend/family member/business partner, Martin's, suicide. In all, it's an intense affair, with the REP company jumping straight in with a brief piece of typical Priestley exposition and foreshadowing in the form of a discussion about a fictitious BBC drama, "Sleeping Dogs" opening the play.

After a fateful discussion between Freda (Finty Williams), Martin's sister-in-law, and Olwen (Kim Thompson), a close friend, it emerges that there is more to Martin's suicide than previously appeared. This is the sort of performance that is best left spoiler-free, so little more needs to be said about the narrative, but I will note that the title "Dangerous Corner" is perhaps too modest; the ingenious plot is filled with so many twists and unexpected events that "Dangerous Midlands Junction" might be a more appropriate title, and it's one junction that the cast (though unfortunately not their characters)

"There's really nothing to criticise here..." navigate superbly. While they're all strong players, worthy of particular note are Colin Buchanan, who plays the oblivious firm director Robert Caplan extremely convincingly, Thompson, who is a wonderfully likable Olwen, and Michael Praed, who plays the cunning Charles Stanton with smooth, cool perfection.

There's really nothing to criticise here; yes, the set takes up barely half the stage, but it's well-designed and atmospheric, with the claustrophobia feeling appropriate. Matt Milne, playing Gordon Whitehouse, is noticeably weaker than the rest of the cast, but still performs to a high standard.

Nothing else needs to be said; if you want to watch something unpredictable with a large amount of mystery, scheming and intensity, don't flick through Netflix, instead take a trip to the REP. You won't be disappointed.

The bombing of Coventry Sophie Neal takes a look back into the history of Coventry The night of 14 November 1940 was one no Coventry resident would ever forget. Between August and October the city had been the target of several air raids. However, Operation Moonlight Sonata hit the city with almighty force and its people’s resilience was tested like never before.

To the people of Coventry, it being chosen as a target for bombs during the Second World War was not a complete surprise. The city was known for its manufacturing skills and so became an obvious place for war materials to be made. Aeroplanes, armoured cars, barrage balloons: Coventry became a hub of production. By consequence this made it a legitimate military target for Hitler’s Germany. However, there was also the crucial wartime element of morale, and Hitler believed relentless bombing of Britain’s cities would force its people to surrender. On the afternoon of that fateful day navigational beams sent out by the Germans to guide their pilots were concentrated on Coventry. Usually, radio devices in Britain would have then jammed the beams meaning the Luftwaffe pilots would have lost their bearings. On the contrary, the radios failed to do their job meaning the Germans had a clear sight on the city. This unfortunate accident meant the people of Coventry had no warning that an attack was about to happen that night and as such were not fully prepared for

what was about to hit them.

At 7.10 pm the infamous air-raid siren began its wail across the city and within minutes the German bombers dropped their first incendiary. Coventry was a medieval city and many of its buildings were still timber-framed meaning huge firestorms quickly spread uncontrollably. By 8pm there were approximately two hundred and fifty fires in the city and to make matters worse the fire station was also hit. Many people fled below ground into public airraid shelters. However, the overwhelming heat affected the shelters and made them unbearable meaning people had to bravely move between shelters while complete chaos was unfolding around them. Despite this, people still attempted to keep their spirits up with some making jokes about the smell of tobacco seeping out from the burning corner shop in the town centre. Another heart-warming story amidst all the devastation is that of Holy Trinity Church whose Reverend Clitheroe, and his small team, personally battled the fires that threatened the church with buckets and fire hydrants. Miraculously the church survived: a small ray of hope amongst the fires of hell engulfing the city.

For nearly eleven hours German bombers released their cargo over the city; razing it to the ground. Eventually, at 6.16am, the bombs stopped falling and people began to take stock of what had happened to them. The neighbour-

hood they had known so well had been all but destroyed and many of their homes were gone too. People were also confronted with the distressing sight of bodies cluttered amongst the rubble: an image ingrained in the mind of the survivors. As a consequence Coventry became the first city during the war to have a mass funeral, held on 23rd November, for the entire city to mourn its five hundred dead.

Two days after the raid King George VI arrived, and poignantly made the point of visiting the burnt-out cathedral where only the spires and walls remained. The ruins of the cathedral became a symbol of Nazi brutality but also, more importantly, one of resilience. Soldiers and builders were drafted in to try and re-build the city, and within two weeks the city’s factories were up and running again. This was a feat much replicated across the country as Hitler’s plan of forcing the British people to surrender never came to fruition.

That night in Coventry, due to its relatively small population of 200,000, each person stood a sixty percent higher risk of being killed than the average anywhere else in the country. Such a statistic demonstrates the bravery of the people of Coventry, and it is this resolve of such people all across Britain during World War Two that we should be grateful to for the freedoms we enjoy today.

12 7th - 20th November 2014

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Culture

The Importance of Being Earnest Review

The Importance of Being Earnest split the opinions of our critics Dean Eastmond and Graca Mutseyami. Find out why First we have Dean Eastmond’s opinion: The stage is set: a quaint midsummer garden backdrop situates itself a little right of the stage, whilst a skirting board covered with painted peacocks - echoing Oscar Wilde's extravagance and flamboyancy over a hundred years later overlooks the audience. A chandelier takes the centre stage with suspended light bulbs hanging like Victorian stars, looking upon Wilde's pinnacle masterpiece.

A modern rendition of the production sees a rehearsal version of the play, with actors switching between their role and their occupation in a comic, slightly pantomime manner.

I am still trying to work out whether this aided Wilde's play or hindered it. With Nike trainers and jokes about Fifty Shades of Grey, some 'modern' aspects came across as slightly predictable and patronising towards the younger audience. This, however, definitely did not take away from the impeccable acting, use of space and the true encapsulation of an audience. I enjoyed it. The way the show was displayed as a play lent a sense of broken narrative and complete incompleteness to it, which of course led to some outrageous laughs from a number of the more traditional theatregoers. Speaking to an older man after the show, he told me that the modern twist "confused him", before his wife

"The way the show was displayed as a play lent a sense of broken narrative and complete incompleteness to it, which of course led to some outrageous laughs..." exclaimed that she thought it was great.

The play itself focuses on Jack/Earnest and his struggle to grasp the idea of himself, whilst trying to develop his matrimonial harmony with Gwendolyn, whilst Algernon Moncrieff (as played by Coronation Street's Nigel Havers) takes Earnest's name in order to woo Cecily Cardew. This all takes place amid a blur of social criticisms of gender, class and education, mixed with gentle innuendos that I swear the over 60s found funnier.

The show itself took a long time to pick up and I was left with a bitter taste after the first act, but everything seemed to pick up and get so much better in the second half, especially with a hilarious scene between Cecily and Gwendolyn over tea and cake. I'm not sure if it was down to the complimentary wine or not, but I certainly enjoyed it. The jokes were not particularly my style, and at one point the snort from the lady next to me had me in tears more than any of the per-

formance. Don't get me wrong though; this is definitely a show I'd recommend, and a must for any theatre lover.

Our next opinion, from critic Graca Mutseyami, is less positive: Oscar Wilde's play has the reputation of being a trivial comedy for serious people. Watching this in the theatre was probably not the best decision. After reading the play and studying it in depth along with hoards of A-Level English Literature students, I was amused more by the older demographic’s laughs in the audience and the woman across the aisle’s echoing snort, than the actual play itself. The book had me cackling in comparison to the shambles of a rendition I watched.

At first, the actors appeared on stage as themselves arriving at rehearsals for a small production put on by the social centre; so it seemed. With both husbands and wives having an acting role in this false community, it almost seemed as if they were teasing the audience with a director’s cut or a peek behind the scenes. But once the informal introduction to the play was over, it suggested to me that the serious nature of the play was about to begin. I could not have been any more wrong in my assumptions.

To begin with, I was incredibly confused as Algernon Moncrieff came on stage in bright red Nike Air Max 1 trainers, and started reciting the opening lines of 'The Importance of Being Earnest'. This should have been the first warning sign that I was about to be insulted and patronised for being a young theatregoer. It was more than obvious that this amateur performance was one big subconscious insult to today's young generation, with Fifty Shades of Grey appearing in Cecily's reading as an attempt at making classic literature relatable to the younger generation. But of course I would laugh; I mean, it's very relatable. Yawn.

People who are usually behind the scenes are front and centre on stage in this production, in full view of the audi-

"...I was about to be insulted and patronised for being a young theatregoer." ence. This included the prompt, the light and sound operator and the woman who makes cucumber sandwiches, which seemed to be of great importance to the first half of the play.

Maybe the cucumber sandwiches were symbolism I didn’t quite get. This soon began to appear intentional as Gwendolyn (played by Cherie Lunghi) was followed on stage by the costume designers as she yelled, 'it's ripped again!' Going off script and out of character purposely during her second scene with Jack Worthing (played by Martin Jarvis) was

apparently just for added humour. It could be argued that this method of acting gave the illusion of the theatre to the audience rather than emphasising the storyline and the importance of a critically acclaimed, perfectly written and executed comedy in English literature.

However, there were a few - albeit short - laughs that burst out of me, most notably when Cruella De Vil's doppelgänger, Lady Bracknell (played by Siân Philips) showed that her stage presence not only lit up the audience with laughter but also rescued the entire play. She tackled key political issues such as the modern education system, suggesting that ignorance allows people to bloom and if ignorance is touched 'then the bloom is gone'. She clarified that money is a key factor to Tories and Liberal unionists being able to dine with one another, and she described her nephew, Algernon, to be the perfect suitor for Jack Worthing's Cecily (Christine Kavanagh), as a man educated at Oxford who 'has nothing but looks everything’. The majority of the people who run our country today are Oxford educated and those who spy on them are Cambridge educated - or so the saying goes, suggesting that the patriarchal government that runs our country are men with nothing but look everything.

Perhaps I was reading too far into it, due to the fact that I was trying hard to enjoy the play and make it relatable to me as an audience member.

Nevertheless, watching a rehearsed rehearsal of an amateur dramatic troupe called the Bunbury Players was extremely excruciating and far too confusing, with failed modern intention and jokes worthy of eye rolls. The humour

"...[it] was extremely excruciating and far too confusing, with failed modern intention and jokes worthy of eye rolls." was far from intelligent; it was more pantomime, rule book comedy. With Algernon's constant winks to the audience, the set designer carrying a ladder onto the stage and the actors doing the classic and most clichéd comedy gag of pretence fear as it swung from side to side, whilst they ducked their heads just in time and screeched in sync. It appealed to the majority of the audience members, but only received two standing ovations. But having yawned more than seven times during the entire performance, it would not satisfy the appetite and appreciation for Wilde enthusiasts. Rather tragic for what is normally a beautiful masterpiece to read and watch.

redbrick.me/culture

7th - 20th November 2014

13

Not to be missed The new play coming to the Guild comes highly recommended by Culture Editor Charlotte Spence Whose play is it anyway? Next weekend (15th-16th November) sees the Guild's first original play of the year. The King of Monte Cristo portrays the first rehearsal of young, award-winning writer-director duo Kevin Hitchins and Trevor Lawrence's fifth production. But when Trevor turns up to the first rehearsal with a completely changed script, the already fragile relationship between the two is at even more of a risk. Joining them - and complicating things - are their eclectic cast: a big-shot Hollywood type, an aspiring television personality, an actor who thinks Harold Pinter is a brand of posh paint thinner, and a shy and polite first-timer.

The King of Monte Cristo is written and directed by third year English student Ludo Cinelli. It is produced by Watch This, a drama society for original theatre.

Saturday 15th November 7 pm, and Sunday 16th November 4 pm / 8 pm.

Tickets can be reserved by posting on the Facebook event for the play, and some may be available on the door. They are £3 for Watch This members, and £4 for non-members.

Culture on the go: Facebook: IMJ Art Designs Issy Jackson is an aspiring artist from Plymouth. She creates detailed artwork, both custom and from imagination. All her pieces are of the highest quality and patience. 'Like' the page for incredible, beautiful works of art without all the stuffiness that so often comes with art.

St Petersburg Symphonic present Tchaikovsky Ciaran Allanson-Campbell Culture Critic

Though Tchaikovsky is one of history's most famous composers, in the past I have only really been familiar with his Ballet Suites. As a newcomer to his broader work, I can say that not only is his fame well deserved, but the St Petersburg Philharmonic present it perfectly.

The evening is split into two parts, Tchaikovsky's Violin

Though the second half of the concert, Tchaikovsky's 6th Symphony, is the more famous piece of the two (and, indeed, is played brilliantly), it is the Violin Concerto in D that merits the most comment here. It is a piece filled with fast, frantic and complicated violin solos, which Leticia Moreno, tonight's violinist, approaches with no lack of energy. In brief terms, it is utterly fantastic. Moreno plays for approximately half an hour straight, with little space between movements, and does not once set a foot wrong. So

"...the St. Petersburg Philharmonic are splendid from the start" Concerto in D, and 6th Symphony respectively, but opens with Liadov's “Kikimora”, a seven minute piece that opens with a somewhat darker tone than its successors. In a sense, it is an odd way to start, since the evening is clearly about Tchaikovsky, and it feels like it should be a “warm-up” piece. No such warm-up is really necessary, however, since the St Petersburg Philharmonic are splendid from the start, playing straight in with easy brooding complexity, and though “Kikimora” feels a little out of place, it is certainly enjoyable.

powerful and flawless is the build up to the conclusion that the audience practically ejaculates with applause at the end.

Standing ovations are a rare thing at Symphony Hall, and while it is a visible minority offering them at the end of the

"Standing ovations are a rare thing at Symphony Hall... each one is justly earned." evening, each one is justly earned. So enthusiastic is the audience response that conductor Yuri Temirkanov treats us to an encore – a rendition of Elgar's “Nimrod”. Yes, it feels odd in a Tchaikovsky concert, and yes, it is a ridiculously self-indulgent moment for the listener, but it is a very welcome encore to an exceptional performance.

Director Yuri Temirkanov Photo: Vladimir Postnov

14 7th - 20th November 2014

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Television

The Rise of Superheroes On TV: Too Much Super, Not Enough Human?

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it's another superhero TV series. TV critic Lucie Turner explores the rise of the superhero genre on our television screens. $1.46 billion dollars. That’s the number that Avengers Assemble brought in, worldwide. I could honestly end this article here if the question about the presence of superheroes on TV was “why?”

I mean, why not? The Iron Man franchise has brought in over $3 billion, the multitude of Batman films earned just over $2.7 billion. Is it any wonder that highpowered executives made the choice to transfer this incredibly successful franchise to our TV screens?

The concept of superheroes on our TV screens is not a new one. Superheroes had been making their way (through flight, teleportation, time travel etc.) onto the small screen as far back as the 1950s, both through adaptations of comic books (Adventures of Superman) and with brand new characters developed for television (Heroes).

"Nowadays you can't move for your choice of superhero segments" However, over the last ten years or so the industry has boomed. I remember when Smallville came out, it was all anyone could talk about. Suddenly popular, long-running TV shows such as Friends were put on the back burner; there was a “super” new show in town (forgive me). Then came Heroes, a concept all of its own with no reinforcement of a popular cult following and yet somehow it carried on for 4 seasons, which was extremely impressive at the time. Though it

was arguably better in its primitive years, a spin-off entitled Heroes: Reborn has been slated for 2015 release.

Nowadays, you can’t move for your choice of superhero segments. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., the popular spin-off in the Marvel world, centred around the elusive S.H.I.E.L.D. agency which manages the lives of Marvel superheroes, has just returned with a second season on E4. Gotham (which is currently at home on Channel 5 in the UK) is an origins story of a young Detective, Jim Gordon, who investigates the murders of Bruce Wayne's parents. On Sky 1 The Flash, a spin-off of Arrow (which has also been renewed for a 3rd season) starring Grant Gustin as Barry Allen, has just started its first season, to rave reviews.

However, the question over whether so many shows are necessary still remains.

Some critics argue that with this many shows on at competing times, the inevitable audience split could ultimately kill the ratings and lead to people’s favourites being cut, which is certainly not unfamiliar in the business (Star Crossed anyone?). A further argument is that the majority of these shows are simply rehashes of an age gone by, aka TV writers are getting lazy. Nobody is coming up with anything new, so hey, why not make another superhero show?

After questioning my peers it became evident that yes, some people are against the whole superhuman band-wagon. Some of them (the bluntest ones) used words like tired, overused, unimaginative, stale, passé the list goes on. Other (slightly more tactful) people suggested that the unfeasible concept of people who can fly or turn invisible or

punch through walls overwhelms any character development, leaving their audiences with little to hold on to. I certainly think we can all admit to times where we are left staring at the TV in annoyance (“Your hair is perfect. PERFECT. And you have just fallen off a building. And why have you magically stopped bleeding in the next scene? Do you have some sort of invisible mega Elastoplast?")

"It's not about the 'Good fighting Evil' stereotype that people often associate with the genre; nowadays it's much more complex than that" But in all honesty, there must be another reason why so many of these shows are lighting up our evening telly sessions. Well for one thing, they’re great at opening up a genre that was pretty gender exclusive for a long time. The comic industry was mostly ruled by men in its emergence; now statistics show that women make up 46.7% of comic book fans. People, who are fans of the TV shows, are now turning to the books to find out more about their favourite characters, and the development of “origin” TV shows appeal to the fans of popular films, who perhaps didn’t read the comics.

In fact, accessibility to the comic world in general becomes easier through watching TV, as sometimes the vast scope of comics

out there can seem slightly daunting, yet TV can be enjoyed by all.

Then, there are the morals instilled in us by superhero TV shows. It’s not about the “Good fighting Evil” stereotype that people often associate with the genre; nowadays it’s much more complex than that. They teach us to embrace what makes us different (even if others don’t understand it). They remind us that regardless of our upbringings, we define who we are by what we do. They encourage us to stand up for the disadvantaged, the deprived and the un-defended. It can be argued that by seeing these (weekly) shows, these concepts and ideas are reinforced daily for us, which is especially important for younger generations who are often portrayed in a negative light by society, rather than a force of good. Oh, and it doesn’t hurt that they are actually quite good. As we saw from my opening statistic, Marvel films work well because hey, they know what an audience wants. Joss Whedon (director and producer of Avengers) acts as an executive producer for Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., bringing with him Clark Gregg who played the exceedingly well received role of Agent Coulson in Avengers, who now leads the cast of A.O.S. In my opinion, there’s nothing wrong with a little “super” action. Maybe they are a bit corny and maybe they are a tad “Americanised”. But given a choice between, say TOWIE and a “super” show on TV, I know which one would leave me feeling more inspired. In brightest day... in blackest night. *props to anyone who got the Green Lantern reference

redbrick.me/television

7th - 20th November 2014

15

TV Quote of the Week: James Nesbitt as Chief Constable Richard Miller in the new trailer for C4's Babylon: "I sleep like a meerkat on an electric fence. That's me relaxing".

The Missing: Review It's BBC's new prime-time drama and is already being hyped as the new Broadchurch. TV critic Amy Hunt gives her verdict on The Missing.

James Nesbitt returned to our screens this week with Monday night’s premiere of new BBC One drama The Missing. The premise is a simple, but undoubtedly haunting one, particularly perhaps for BBC One’s older viewers. The series follows the after effects of the disappearance of a young boy, Oliver Hughes, and the emotional trauma that ensues for his parents, Tony and Emily Hughes, and wider family alike. Run on a dual story line basis, set within different time periods, the opening episode detailed the exact moment of the child’s disappearance while on holiday in France, and the immediate events following it, whilst also showing the viewers Tony’s return to the village some years later in a desperate bid to find his child and put an end to the harrowing reality that his life has become.

The Missing, as a multi-part BBC One series concerned with the disappearance of a young child, has of course already drawn

comparisons with ITV’s extraordinarily successful series Broadchurch. Whilst The Missing did not pack the fast-paced, thrilleresque punch of Broadchurch into its first episode, with an undoubtedly slower start than its ITV counterpart, it still managed to tell a story emotive and intriguing enough that it made you want to tune in for the next episode.

One particularly captivating element of the show’s first episode was the present day endeavours of the child’s parents and how their lives came to be what we see now, after the fallout from the disappearance of Oliver.

Far from this being the Broadchurch type detective show, where all scenes are set in the immediacy of the present day, The Missing gives viewers the chance to follow the characters far into the future, with the horrendous matter of their child’s disappearance still left unresolved. This provides an interesting opportunity for viewers to attempt

to be able to understand the incredibly delicate and emotional coping mechanisms these two characters have adopted in order to be able to deal with their enormously

"The episode is rather slow-paced but rather than this being a cause for disinterest in the evolving plot, it is used to display in detail all the heart-breaking moments of this families' trauma" devastating, life-changing situation.

In witnessing somewhat of a ‘before and after’ in the personalities of the characters of Tony and Emily, viewers are able to see the

enormous change that has been forced upon their lives. Nesbitt and Frances O’Connor, who plays Emily Hughes, both excellently portray the widely differing, but equally upsetting paths both characters have taken following their son’s disappearance, and the contrast between these two provides an insight into the very real, and very poignant, issue of child disappearances.

The episode is rather slow-paced, but rather than this being a cause for disinterest in the evolving plot, it is used to display in detail all the heart-breaking moments of this family's trauma. This makes for a dark episode, helping to align you with the characters, and thus invest yourself in the show. However, the episode ended with a typically jaw-dropping cliff-hanger, which is clearly used in the hope that viewers will return for the next episode to find out the story behind it. I certainly will, and recommend you do so too.

A Flash of Brilliance

As part of the superhero takeover on our televisions, writer Harry Turner reviews the debut of new series The Flash.

With The Flash acting as the first expansion of The CW’s self-contained television universe, the show’s strong and confident premier is only made all the more exciting.

Though, that said, much of it is indeed held up by the potential of the wider universe, with the expansion of this universe being teased throughout the episode via numerous easter eggs, as the likes of Gorilla Grodd, the Rogues, and even Batman are referenced. Likewise, the season-spanning stories that start in the premiere show potential – most notably the mysterious death of Barry’s mother, which teases a significant villain from the comics, as well as the end revelation which I shall not spoil here. Both elements suggest that the show will not be shying away from the idea of time-travel, an integral part of the Flash mythos. Additionally, it was refreshing to see The CW embrace the comic book

nature of both the Flash’s character and this universe in general.

The characters themselves are both, on the whole anyway, well-cast and well-written. In particular is Grant Gustin’s Barry Allen, whom he plays with an endearing charm tempered by a raw emotion making him immediately likeable both as assistant police forensic investigator and Central City’s scarlet speedster. The scenes between Barry and his incarcerated father inject a powerful emotional element into the show – one only heightened by his fatherly relationship with Detective West. Of equal note is Barry’s team back at S.T.A.R. Labs, which rounds out the supporting cast, carrying the most potential for future storylines (particularly in regard to Caitlin Snow and Harrison Wells), and also providing Barry with some much needed allies in his scenes as the Flash. Whilst the episode’s villain was

disappointingly basic and Barry’s friend zone predicament frustratingly cliché, neither significantly let down the episode and in fact the former was almost inevitable given all that a forty-five minute premiere has to achieve.

Of course, like any show, the premiere is not without problems. The least surprising one is that the premiere is rushed, with the story hinging upon a number of coincidences for the writers to fulfil this part of the origin story in just forty five minutes.

Similarly, I also have concerns about the twenty three episode season that The CW has ordered. Only time will tell if The Flash can maintain the momentum established in this episode throughout. More significantly, the CGI, whilst serviceable, is nothing to write home about – though, again this is unsurprising given its nature as a TV show.

Then, finally: the costume. Whilst again

entirely serviceable, it still seems grounded in the grittiness of Arrow – a costume that I am not fond of – with its red and yellows being decisively darkened. Hopefully, as Barry becomes more established in his role as Central City’s protector, the show will refine this costume to be more like that of the comics. No, these are not issues that should deter you from committing to a few more episodes, but they are worth mentioning.

Overall, The Flash provided a strong start to a series that, whilst not especially ambitious thematically beyond the concept of a shared television universe, looks to be a fun, dramatic superhero story that both comic fans and superhero film lovers alike will enjoy. With a twenty-three episode season looming ahead, it would be best to get watching now before you have to start playing catch-up with the fastest man alive.

16 7th - 20th November 2014

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Life & Style

Generation 'F'

Budget Beauty Buys

Following recent media campaigns concerning feminism, Courtney Barclay debates feminism's place in modern society The ‘F’ word: Feminism. A movement for gender equality that has coursed through society for the last 150 years has been rebranded for 2014. With campaigns such as Emma Watson’s HeforShe and Elle Magazine’s collaboration with the Fawcett Society reaching out to all genders to join the conversation, it looks as if the stigma of feminism is slowly but surely dwindling.

Watson’s impassioned speech at the UN caught the attention of over six million people and gained support from influ-

"The Prime Minister's lack of support for the campaign has caused anger amongst many." ential figures including President Obama, while Elle’s launch of a slogan tee, stating “This Is What A Feminist Looks Like” and coinciding with a feminist feature in

December's magazine, has been worn by political names such as Nick Clegg, but was controversially refused by David Cameron. The Prime Minister’s lack of support for the campaign has caused anger amongst many and led to fellow politician Harriet Harman wearing the statement tee in the House of Commons recently as a rebuke.

Maybe the success of these campaigns has been due to a less radical approach to the topic. However, even this is debatable when it is circulating the internet at the same time as the ‘F-bomb for Feminism’ video. Featuring “potty mouth” six yearold princesses flaunting the use of swear words to promote the inequality of women in modern society, this video has created both entertainment and controversy, the point being that the shock of the video should be the statistics of “one in five women likely to be raped in their lifetime” rather than the foul language used. Having gone viral it seems to have achieved the same exposure as the more socially accepted approaches - either way, is it necessary to be extreme in feminism anymore?

However the topic is addressed, it is refreshing to see so many influential pub-

Carys Allott Life&Style Writer

Simple Kind to Eyes Soothing Eye

lic figures creating waves of support for a cause that until recently had arguably Balm - £3.99 appeared to be waning. It seems to me that it is easy to answer the ever avoided ques- This silky and nourishing eye skin moisturiser is the perfect way to refresh tired eyes after all those late nights – whether you’ve been studying hard or just enjoying yourself a bit too much at Fab! Dab a small amount onto the eye both morning and night to relax and hydrate your eyes. Even better, less is more with this product, so it should last ages!

"Is it necessary to be extreme in feminism anymore?"

tion - are you a feminist? Just ask yourself: do you believe in equal rights for all genders? If yes, you are a feminist.

So why do people hesitate to admit this so often in the 21st century? Such a word used to be associated with empowered women and girl power! The idea that you could not possibly be a feminist if you also found pleasure in a new lipstick or fashion isolates the movement for the modern woman. By accepting the term for what it is, society can eradicate the stigma surrounding it and women can accept that they can believe in equality and still embrace their femininity.

"Over the years I have learnt that what is important in a dress is the woman wearing it." - Yves Saint Laurent

The Juicing Diet Life&Style writer Laura-Beth Green discusses this year's extreme eating fad.

We've all heard of some silly diets in our time - from the Atkins to the Maple Syrup Cleanse, but now another controversial food fad is making waves.The juicing diet involves the consumption of high nutrition juices - either exclusively, or with a minimal amount of food over a period of time. Depending on the type of diet pursued, this detox can vary from three days to a week, or even longer in some cases. As with many diets, it has received both criti-

used as a general detox and for other health benefits, such as revitalizing the body, and over a short period sorting certain skin problems.

This kind of diet is very variable, but an example would be pursuing the diet for a five-day period. During this time

include vitamin supplements and/or light meals as part of the plan, but to reiterate, it can be conducted in many ways.

As with any diet, there are side effects - some of which are serious. These include fatigue, headaches, dizziness and low blood sugar levels. In extreme cases it can also result in fainting. A key factor to consider is that a diet such as this does not provide sufficient nutrition for the body in many ways. Though fruit and vegetables are very healthy,

"As with any diet, there are side effects - some of which are serious. These include fatigue, headaches, dizziness and low blood sugar levels."

"The diet is good for revitalizing the body, and over a short period sorting certain skin problems."

cism and praise, as well as being popular in the celebrity world, with the likes of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Millie Mackintosh giving it a try.

Some sources report that like most fad diets, weight comes off quickly over a short period of time when 'juicing', but then goes back on again rapidly. Others, however, argue that it is a good initial start to weight loss and can subsequently help maintain a target weight. But juicing isn't solely concerned with weight loss - the diet is also

the body requires an adequate source of protein and carbohydrate to function properly.

For people who pursue the diet on a more long-term basis, it can lead to serious problems in later life - from issues with bone and muscle development, to increased chances of developing an eating disorder. Therefore, before unleashing the blender and pursuing any dietary plan of this nature, it is best to understand what you are doing, and the detriments as well as merits of such a health regime.

only the recommended juices (mostly with higher concentration of vegetable than fruit), along with water and herbal teas are consumed. This is done alongside gentle exercise such as walking, tai chi or yoga. It is always important when following a diet like this to keep hydrated and to stop if it makes you feel unwell. Some versions of this diet

redbrick.me/lifestyle

7th - 20th November 2014

Five simple things... Unlikely Fashion Icons

17

Fierce

To improve your life.

Beth Tooley

Zoe Screti

Life&Style Writer

Life&Style Writer

1. Drink more water..

Sometimes the people we take our fashion inspiration from are a little unusual, and are not at all what other people would deem an ‘icon’. But we all have someone whose style is our guilty pleasure. My unlikely fashion icon first became known in the Eighties, but it is her everevolving style and fearlessness in pushing boundaries that inspires me the most.

Lethargy is an inevitable side effect of dehydration. Instead of succumbing to the usual caffeine fix when you are feeling a little worse for wear, consider a glass of cold water. If it’s the tastelessness that is putting you off, infuse your water with citrus fruits or even fresh berries. Aim for around 2-3 litres a day.

2. Only associate yourself with positive people.

Avoid the toxic people in your life, as they can have a negative effect on your mood as well as your ability to achieve. Surround yourself with those who bring out the best in you! Additionally, laughing has many benefits, such as improving your memory.

3. Try yoga.

Not only is yoga a fantastic way to increase physical strength, but it is also an amazing stress reliever. The controlled-breathing exercises promote peacefulness and a sense of self-worth.

4. Wake up earlier.

Although at times a lie in is inevitable, it is best not to make them part of your routine. Mornings could be used for doing something more productive, like bagging a seat in the library!

5. Get some fresh air everyday.

Although it may seem simple, too many people find themselves enclosed in their room all day. Go outside for a walk; it does not require any special equipment, and brings so many benefits both psychologically and physically.

Bursting onto the music scene in the 1980s with 'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun', Cyndi Lauper appears to have channelled the moral of her hit song in her style. From layering distressed skirts and t-shirts with denim jackets, to stepping out in structured tailoring, Cyndi Lauper has tried it all. 'Time after time', through every phase of her style evolution, Lauper has evoked notions of pushing boundaries, and breaking free of the catwalk constraints that are all too often applied to fashion. To be frank, she wore what she wanted when she wanted, and did not care what people thought. It is only very recently that Lauper has begun to tone down her excessive layering and clashing colours, instead adopting neutral tones and tailoring that remain edgy, adorned with studs, yet somewhat more refined.

Yet the inspiration I take from Cyndi Lauper is not just in her daring attitude and bold fashion choices. She often shows her “true colours” through her strikingly dyed hair. Her notorious locks have been neon orange, bright yellow, bleach blonde, pastel pink, red and blue to name a few and styled in edgy bobs, bed-head curls and side shaved, looks that are not as effortless as she makes them appear. Cyndi Lauper truly is 'fearless' and when it comes to style, she is one girl who knows how to have fun!

Life&Style's Agony Aunt Katie Masters solves all your problems.

Q. I've never been great with money and my spending during Freshers' really drove this home!

How do I manage my money better? Do I need to get a job?

A. Being a student is a time when money is tight for most people,

so you're not alone. The best way to manage your money is to budget. It's not as scary as it sounds: you just need to make a spreadsheet (yes, even if you've not touched Excel since Year 5 ICT) to manage your income versus your outgoings. If you find that more money is leaving your account than is being deposited in it, you need to doctor your spending so that this isn't the case. There are things you can do to save money, for example walk or cycle instead of taking the bus or train – it's better for the environment too. Get your books out of the library instead of buying them and if you do have to buy them, then secondhand is the way to go. Shop at grocers and butchers, which are often a lot cheaper than the supermarkets.

Having said that, it is worth raiding the reduced section in your local supermarket (especially late on a Sunday, when they often have bread going for pennies) and buy the supermarkets' own instead of branded products, such as rice, pasta and oats. Remember: Aldi is your friend! As for whether you should get a job, that is really up to you. Working seven hours a week is doable, but working a full time job is probably going to impact on your studies. Check out the Job Zone at the Guild if you are interested in part time work both in the university and the local area; and Worklink for casual work within the university. If you still find you're strapped for cash, you can contact the Student Funding office or the ARC for more advice and help.

Q. One of my flatmates is really into legal highs and recently offered me some. Are they as harmless as people say?

A.

Legal highs are usually sold under names like 'Clockwork Orange' or 'Bliss' and may take the appearance of powder, pills, tabs or dried herbs. Often sold in brightly coloured packets, they commonly bear the words 'not for human consumption' to get around the law. They may be sold as incense or plant food, among other things.

They're usually taken orally or smoked and induce effects similar to that of illegal drugs, such as cannabis and ecstasy, in the user.

Despite their name, legal highs can sometimes contain substances that are actually banned. Many have ingredients on the packet, but this is not always accurate: you never really know what you are getting; how strong it is (even if it's a brand you've had before); or what effect it might have on you vs. your friends, especially in conjunction with other drugs or alcohol. Legal highs can generally be divided into three categories: stimulants, like amphetamine; depressants, like diazepam, and hallucinogens, like LSD. They have the potential to be can be addictive: the user may feel like they need to keep taking them or even have withdrawal symptoms upon cessation. So 'legal' doesn't necessarily equate to 'safe'. As for whether you should try some, it ultimately has to be your decision. Whatever you decide, please educate yourself. FRANK has some great information on legal highs as well as other drugs at www.talktofrank. com.

Got a problem or predicament? Send it to lifestyle@redbrick.me

'1989' by Taylor Swift Two years since Swift released her record-breaking RED, she’s back with a self-confessed ‘pop album’. The lyric snippets she’s been releasing daily on her Instagram prove that her diary-like lyrical ability hasn’t been compromised for her new sound!

Building 25 - The Free People Blog One of my favourite online haunts, I especially love Free People’s blog during the autumn and winter time. A haven for the bohemian-spirit, FP’s posts are full of quirky and unique style guides, craft to-dos and veggie/vegan recipes.

Elie Saab This Lebanese designer creates gowns fit for a fairytale princess (literally - he designed for Queen Rania of Jordan in 1999!) Lily Collins stunned the crowds in the designer’s beautiful violet ombre gown at the recent premiere of ‘Love, Rosie’ in Rome.

Wind Autumn means knee high socks, comfy jumpers and Pumpkin Spice Lattes. But autumn also means wind, and wind blows up skirts, messes up perfect-hairdays, and breaks your umbrella. Need I say more?

The 80s Resurgence As iconic it was as an era, how many times can it really be ‘re-worked’?

Costume Problems Halloween's over, but now there's Christmas...Don’t get me wrong, I love dressing up more than the average six year old, but why do I have to end every costume-shop-search looking either slutty or childish?

By Esther Newman Life&Style Writer

Finished

18 7th - 20th November 2014

redbrick.me/travel

Travel

A Native's Guide to Malaysia International travel writer, Nadhirah Syalin, gives us the exclusive local knowledge of what to see while in her home country...

Growing up in a melting pot of culture is one of the biggest perks of being Malaysian. The diversity that Malaysia has to offer pieces together a beautiful mosaic of different customs and traditions. Located near the equator, the weather in Malaysia is a stark contrast to the UK. After a few weeks of experiencing the temperamental British weather, I find myself missing the Malaysian sun a lot, despite the heat and humidity. However, most of all I miss the delicious Malaysian food! Locals and foreigners alike rave about the legendary cuisine. Here are some of the reasons why I would urge anyone to visit my top three favourite cities in Malaysia.

There’s always something to do in the busy capital, Kuala Lumpur. The whole city can be viewed either from the top of the Kuala Lumpur Tower, or from the bridge of the Kuala Lumpur Twin Towers. In the shadows of these iconic skyscrapers, the heart of the city is a shopping heaven. With more than five shopping malls located within short walking distance of each other, one is easily spoilt for choice. The malls house globally recognised brands such as Zara, Gap, Topshop, H&M, Forever 21 and many others.

I love spending my weekends with friends window shopping, going to the cinema and then having dinner at one of the many restaurants around. There is no Costa Coffee in Malaysia, but no need to worry about getting your coffee fix because Starbucks is everywhere in the city. The malls and shops in Malaysia usually closes at 10pm everyday, so one can really shop till they drop.

Petaling Street, in Chinatown, offers plenty of cheap goods and is also famous for selling fakes. I’m guessing you can’t really find a street like this in the UK, due to the strict policy against pirated products. However, when purchasing anything in Petaling Street, haggling is a must! Just minutes away is the arts and crafts hub, Central Market. You can get really good souvenirs; there are cheap buys, as well as the alley at the back entrance where many artists paint, draw and sell their artwork.

If shopping is not your thing, fret not because there’s still plenty to do in Kuala Lumpur. Head over to the huge Lake Gardens area which has enough attractions to keep you occupied the whole day. The orchid garden and the hibiscus garden are among the 5 gardens in the area. The KL Bird Park there also happens to be the world’s largest walk-in aviary; there's a deer park as well! The National Museum, The National Monument, The National Mosque and the Islamic Art Museum are all located around the Lake Gardens so you can easily make your way on foot from one place to the other.

The former royal palace (Istana Negara) has now been converted into the National Palace Royal Museum. Until 2011, it was the official residence of the King and Queen of Malaysia and, back then, visitors were only allowed to gather in front of the gates to take pictures. Just like Buckingham Palace, the changing of the guards is a highlight of the visit.

If the colonial history of Malaysia is in your interest, a visit to the Merdeka Square (Independence Square) should be on your to-do list! On the 31st of August 1957, the Union Jack was lowered and the Malaya flag was raised, marking the end of the British colonial rule. The buildings around the Merdeka Square such as the KL Railway Station and the

Sultan Abdul Samad building boast the British colonial architecture against the backdrop of the modern city.

Batu Caves, which is the site of a Hindu temple and shrine, is another popular attraction. It plays host to the largest statue in the world of the Hindu god Lord Murugan.

During the Thaipusam festival, thousands of devotees and tourists flood the area forming a massive crowd all the way up the 272 steps. I usually get excited over the many monkeys frolicking around. They are really cute until one tries to snatch something away from you, so beware of the little tykes.

The city centre of the state of Melaka is certified as a Unesco World Heritage Site, due to its rich colonial history.

I simply love the architecture of the city as a fusion of the Portuguese, Dutch and British influences- along with local cultures- creating a perfect mix of the East and West.

The main attractions in Melaka include the ruins of the Portuguese fortress, A Famosa and the Dutch Square- where the Christ Church and Stadhuys building is located. Looking at the red buildings and walking around the clock tower in the middle of the square sometimes evokes a sense of nostalgia in me. A few museums are scattered around the area as well, such as the Maritime Museum, which is a replica of a Portuguese ship that sank off the coast of Melaka. If walking under the hot sun is too much to handle, Melaka is famous for its colourfully decorated trishaws to get around.

Some of the trishaws even have radios blaring the old classics for good vibes and, often, the trishaw drivers can provide a commentary about the places as well. However, beware of them overcharging, so haggling for a reasonable price is often normal.

Jonker Street, in Chinatown, is not to be missed when visiting Melaka. The antique shop houses offer an array of

quirky trinkets and souvenirs. Local favourite ‘cendol’, which is shaved iced with toppings and fillings, is perfect to be enjoyed in the heat while shopping. Pubs, bars and restaurants dot the area and, on weekends, the night market draws the crowd into Chinatown by the droves. Melaka is also famous for its Peranakan culture, which is the result of the marriage between the Malays and the Chinese immigrants.

The traditional Nyonya cuisine from the Peranakan culture is a must try for any visitor.

The Taming Sari tower is located just beside the two biggest malls in Melaka. You get a really good view of the city by taking the revolving ride up the tower. As a person who’s scared of heights, I prefer taking the Melaka River cruise that will cut across town. I might not get a bird’s eye view of the city but it is nice to go for the cruise at night, as the buildings along the river would be lit up with colourful lights.

George Town, the capital city of the state of Penang, is named after Britain’s King George III. The inner city of George Town is listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site for it’s multi-cultural heritage and history. George Town and Melaka share a lot of similarities culturally but they offer distinct attractions.

My favourite thing about Georgetown is the beautiful street art decorating the alleys. It makes strolling around Georgetown exciting and fun- especially for photography enthusiasts. Penang is sometimes dubbed as the cycling city due to the abundant cycling lanes and numerous bike rentals.

So, what I’d suggest to everyone visiting George Town, is to rent a bike, grab a map of the street arts around and set out on a quest of getting the best Instagram-worthy pictures.

The heritage trail tours usually consist of visiting the many museums, mansions, mosques and temples scattered around George Town. A good view of Penang can be enjoyed from the top of the Komtar Tower. You can choose to visit all these places on foot, bike, trishaw or bus depending on your stamina and budget. If you’re looking to roam the streets a few degrees cooler than usual, rent a Vespa or one of the 4 seater bikes if you’re travelling with friends. The Malaysian sun can be a challenge, even to locals, so remember to equip yourself with shades, sunscreen and hats. If that fails, just pop into the many cafes and bars in George Town for a quick break.

When staying in Penang, ditch the familiar comforts of hotels and stay in one of the many backpacker hostels in the heart of George Town. They’re clean, comfortable and cheap, plus you’ll meet really interesting people. Both the bars and hawker food stalls are located near the backpacker hostels so there’s definitely something to do at night. The large amount of foreigners populating the area sometimes makes me wonder if I’m still in Malaysia.

You’ll never grow hungry in Penang as many stalls operate late into the night. One of the more popular shops selling Nasi Kandar, which is a type of rice, only opens at 10pm and you’d be surprised at the amount of people queuing for rice in the middle of the night. The quaint and vintage vibe on the streets, plus the amazing Penang food, attracts visitors from all over the world. In fact, just a few weeks before coming to the UK, I went to visit George Town knowing that I’ll never find something similar here.

The 5...

Top Trendy Travel Blogs Olivia Ball recommends the best online journals to indulge in another's passion for travel...

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World Tour Stories

World of Wanderlust

Twenty-Something Travel

Classe Touriste

Petite Passport

You don't have to be a sailor to live vicariously through this couple. Alex and Taru swapped their glamourous lifestyles for a sailing adventure around the world.

Since, they have been to every paradise island possible, documenting their experiences.

Aussie travel blogger, Brooke Saward, began blogging only two years ago. Her blog has since become her space to tell us about her travels in over 50 countries. It has fantastic tips for travelling in all continents and, at just 22, this girl is one to keep an eye on!

Didn't take a gap yah? Well this is a great blog to follow for those wanting to travel after Uni. Stephanie Yoder left her 9 to 5 in 2010 and has travelled ever since.

Follow this blog for advice on planning your travels and to keep up with Stephanie's journey.

Written by a freelance travel writer and photographer couple, this blog gives you an insight into travel like no other. The philosophy behind the blog of finding secret places gives you a glimpse at some of the most inaccessible and beautiul places on Earth.

Pauline Egge believes in the importance of it all being in the detail. Her blog focusses on popups, design and the small things of travel which make it so special.

This blog is great for the latest on trendy galleries, shops and concept style eateries.

redbrick.me/travel

7th - 20th November 2014

19

LGBTQ Travel Advice Travel writer Joe Taylor provides advice for all travellers Research published last month highlights that only 46% of the LGBTQ community research a destination before travelling. However, this is a trend among Brits generally and young people in particular. Even though you may only be flying for a few hours, attitudes and practices may appear to be that from a bygone era.

Inter-railing: one of students’ most popular means of travel. The excitement of boarding a train with the destination unknown, travelling through the heart of one of the most cultural continents on the planet. For many, Europe appears to be one of the most progressive continents regarding attitudes and rights of the LGBTQ community.

However, travelling towards Paveletsky railway station in Moscow, the Rainbow Europe map quickly turns yellow and then red. The Rainbow Europe map provides a score for each European country, regarding their laws and attitudes towards LGBTQ rights. Check this out before you travel for more information and advice when travelling through Europe. Putin’s introduction of new ‘anti-gay’ laws places Russia as the lowest European nation in terms of the rights of LGBTQ community. This has led to a rise of attacks carried out by ‘gangs’ and general hostility towards this community and civil rights supporters.

Even though there has been some publicity over the situation in Russia, much less attention has been paid to other European neighbours’ attitudes towards the LGBTQ community. Macedonia, Bulgaria and Kosovo all feature at the bottom of the Rainbow Europe Index due to their deeprooted social attitudes towards LGBTQ communities.

With the rise of far-right parties across much of Eastern Europe, the LGBTQ community has seen civil rights measures either scaled back or reversed. A large proportion of students inter-rail as it gives them the chance to explore some of the oldest cities in the world, steeped in history and culture. However, a few hours travelling East and the attitudes towards the LGBTQ community dramatically changes, with all this on our very own doorstep.

Another popular student destination is Africa; whether that is volunteering with a charity, teaching schoolchildren

or simply travelling ar this diverse region. Africa is home to the world’s oldest communities but also some old-fashioned attitudes towards the LGBTQ community. 38 countries in Africa still criminalise homosexuality. In many African countries you face a life sentence for simply being part of the LGBTQ community, often experiencing harassment and discrimination in everyday life.

Amnesty International reported the rise of homophobic attacks in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2013 citing that, in Cameroon, people are regularly attacked after being denounced to the authorities as being gay or lesbian- based on their appearance or conjecture rather than evidence. In 2010, Uganda's Rolling Stone magazine published a photograph of gay rights activist David Kato next to a headline reading ‘Hang Them’. However, it is important to note that these attitudes are most prevalent in rural areas and many parts of Africa are pushing for equality through legislation

"Take the time before you travel to research your destination." and changing social attitudes.

Africa remains a top destination for students who want to have the experience of a lifetime, whilst making a positive contribution on peoples’ lives. Amnesty International and FCO Travel Advice provide a wealth of LGBTQ information for those travelling to Africa.

Backpacking around Asia is the archetypal trip for students, either on a gap year or post-graduation. The is a chance to explore a region so diverse and exciting, plus it is as far away from the UK as you can probably get!

Unfortunately, East Asia remains one of the most hostile places towards the LGBTQ community.

Many Asian countries are predominately Islamic, and much of the population observe a conservative attitude towards the LGBTQ community. Indonesia, which has the largest Muslim population, has legalised same-sex relation-

ships. However, social prejudices and attitudes are still apparent in many Asian countries. Pew Research Centre found that 93% of Indonesians surveyed felt that homosexual people ‘should not be accepted’.

Throughout Asia there is still a stigma attached to homosexuality and many people face discrimination based solely on their sexual orientation. This is often the case in smaller communities that are not near the big global cities.

However, it is important to note that attitudes are changing.

In June this year Singapore held a festival known as the ‘Pink Dot’ , in honour of the ‘Little Red Dot’, that Singaporeans like to call their City-State. This event attracted 21,000 people in support of LGBTQ rights in the country and called for similar action across the region.

East Asia is one of the most popular destinations for students looking to volunteer or just simply explore, yet many are unaware of these attitudes towards the LGBTQ community. But the trend is a positive one, with initiations such as ‘Being LGBT in Asia’ where you can find lots of advice and information using an interactive map of the continent. The key message is that, although attitudes are different across the world, you are unlikely to have any problems if you prepare well and research your destination before you go. Firstly, consult the FCO Travel Advice website which has detailed, up-to-date information from around the world with a dedicated page for LGBTQ travellers.

The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) has region-specific advice and interactive features helping you research your destination.

Additionally, you can contact national LGBTQ groups who will have a good idea of the local LGBTQ scene and speak with your travel operator who will have knowledge of the areas where you are travelling.

Although the focus has been on attitudes towards the LGBTQ community, the message is the same for all students and graduates alike. Take the time before you travel to research your destination, understand some of the regional issues and make sure you are aware of local customs. In short: ‘Know Before You Go’.

24 hours in... Glasgow Claire Burling tells us her top tips for spending a day in the Scottish city.

How to get there Glasgow is easily accessible from Birmingham. A train directly from New Street is the most popular option; though, those on a budget could also take a coach as tickets for Megabus start from only £20 return.

What to see A City Bus Tour is the perfect way to get a feel of the whole of Glasgow. At only £10 for a student ticket, and the route lasting over 2 hours, this whistle-stop tour shows you all you could wish to see and keeps you away from the biting cold.

The hop on, hop off system allows you to disembark wherever you like, be it the Kelingrove Art Gallery and Museum (home to the works of Charles Rennie Mackintosh), or the infamous Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel.

The University of Glasgow is one of the most beautiful parts of the city and definitely worth a look around. When

you climb up to the East Quadrangle to view the ancient spires and stained-glass windows and wander through the cloisters, you really will feel like you’re at Hogwarts!

Finally stop off in the gift shop to purchase one of the many tartan scarves - you'll be needing it for the cold!

The London Underground's little cousin- the Clockwork Orange- is Glasgow's very own metro system, with only 15 stations. Although being endearingly teeny, it is still worth a ride.

A taste of Scotland Brunch at Hillhead BookClub: This quirky, vintage café is the perfect place to start your visit, and what could be more appropriate than a Full Scottish Breakfast? With the addition of haggis and black pudding, washed down with a glass of Irn Bru, this hearty meal will leave you fuelled up for the rest of the day.

The chip shops of Glasgow will welcome you with open arms and all manner of fried delights. Pick up a traditional

piece of haddock, rather than the English cod and, if you're feeling brave, a deep-fried Mars Bar! As if a Mars Bar wasn't good enough already, now it's crispy, gooey and chocolately.

Glasgow has won the award for Curry Capital four times, so it is only fair to try a curry here and see what Birmingham’s Curry Mile is up against. I’d recommend Ashoka for their friendly atmosphere and frankly enormous portions.

Insider’s tip Ashton Lane: Tucked away behind Bryers Road, this busy little street is packed full of bars and restaurants and is a favourite haunt for local students. The Grosvenor Café is an incredible, prohibition-Era New York themed bar whose stunning interior is not to be missed.

Birmingham Stay at home and enjoy the UK’s largest market! Brum is twinned with Frankfurt and

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redbrick.me/food

7th -20th November 2014

Food

Currying flavour...or not?

Food writer Jennifer Cook gives her view on the different eating options for curry-lovers and explores why Birmingham was "snubbed" by the 'Curry Capital of Britain' competition Jennifer Cook Food Writer

Curry No. 2: The Takeaway

Did you know?

Name: Khanum Price: Chicken Korma £5.50/ Pilau Rice £1.90 Quality: ***

Earlier this year, online takeaway platform 'Just Eat' acquired a Birmingham based startup Meal2Go a company involved in creating an electronic point-of-sale device specifically designed for the restaurant industry.

This technology will allow businesses to stream line their ordering system whether it is from online, over the phone or a ‘walk-in’ customer off the street.

The food was tasty, with the Korma being sweet and creamy and the rice well seasoned. The portion sizes were reasonable and the delivery itself was prompt. Taking both price and quality into consideration, I believe that the takeaway, whilst still a luxury, is an excellent option for students looking to indulge on a tight budget!

Total spent= £7.40

Curry No. 1: The Restaurant

Curry No. 3: The 2 Minute Microwave Meal

Name: The Maharaja Price: Chicken Korma £9.25/ Pilau Rice £3.75 Quality: ****

Name: Look What We Found! Staffordshire Chicken Tikka (with Tilda Pilau Rice) Price:£1.99/ £1 (respectively) Quality: *****

The food was delicious and I felt that the seasoning tasted authentic. Service was excellent and the restaurant’s interior was attractive. I would however recommend the restaurant to someone in search of a more refined dining experience as opposed to a student-style haunt. The price itself is perhaps situated towards the higher end of the market but I believe that it is reflective of the experience as a whole.

Total spent= £13

As the branding for the Chicken Tikka suggests, the curry contains 100% locally sourced meat and is made with 100% natural ingredients. The brand is obviously eager to push the concept of ‘home grown’, with the packet featuring a photograph of the farmer responsible for rearing the chickens. At first I was sceptical about this product, as it does somewhat resemble a Nasa-style meal, but I must say that after one bite I was instantly won over by the flavour and quality of the curry. For me, the portion size is perfect and it only took two minutes to cook it in the microwave.

The product is also long-life and will therefore keep in the cupboard, perfect for satisfying any sudden Friday night curry cravings.

Total spent= £2.99

"The takeaway is an excellent option for students to indulge on a tight budget"

A Bleak Future for the Birmingham Balti?

are steeped in controversy, with some stating that the dish was first developed in Birmingham during the 1970’s and others claiming that the recipe originates from

"The 'Birmingham Balti" could be recognized alongside foods such as the Cornish Pasty" Baltistan, a northern region of Pakistan. In a spirit contrary to that of Jaffrey, The Birmingham Balti Restaurant Association have been campaigning over the last four years to see the dish achieve legally recognized status, which would mean that anyone using the specific cooking method would have to refer to the dish as a ‘Birmingham Balti’. If the bid is successful under the Protected Food Name Scheme, the dish could be recognized alongside foods such as the Cornish pasty, Jersey royal potatoes and Arbroath Smokies.

When questioned about the future of the Balti whilst at this year’s Cheltenham Literature Festival, renowned Indian chef Madhur Jaffrey, much to the furor of local Balti connoisseurs, described the dish as a ‘craze with no authentic origins which will slowly die as people’s tastes turn to more complex dishes’. The true origins of the dish

Digbeth Dining Club

Are you diggin' on me?

A brief insight into this award-winning Birmingham event

Looking to the future of a growing society...

Ella Downing Food Writer

Every Friday night from 5.30pm, nestled away at Spotlight you will find the hidden gem that is the Digbeth Dining Club. In 2013, it won the Annual British Street Food Event Award, so it puzzles me that so few people are aware that it even exists.

Our visit was brilliantly niche. The place oozed character; you really did feel like you’d stumbled across someone else’s secret and this added to the charm. The Club hosts a range of different street food venders that change slightly every week.

We opted for the pulled pork burger from ‘Low n Slow’ and a succulent beef burger from ‘The Flying Cows’ both of which were absolutely delicious, and for £6 apiece, you can’t really go wrong. Alongside these stalls were ‘Canoodle’, ‘Platinum Pancakes’ and ‘The Vegan Grindhouse’, so everyone’s tastes were catered for. Furthermore, all the vendors were very welcoming and friendly.

After we’d wolfed down our burgers, we retired to Spotlight’s bar where the DJ played a whole host of funk and reggae, really adding to the charisma of the night.

Although there was a complete mix of people at Digbeth Dining Club, it’s perfect for students. The pricing is very reasonable for the food that’s on offer and my only criticism would be that the bar is fairly pricey, but only in comparison to student bars. It is perfect for anyone that is sick of the same old places and nights out and wants to try something distinctive. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

"The place oozed character; you felt like you'd stumbled across someone else's secret" To look at coming and previous menus as well as finding out more about the different traders check out Digbeth Dining Club online at www.digbethdiningclub.co. uk. To be in with a chance of winning free food head to their Facebook and Twitter profiles: www.facebook.com/DigbethDiningClub @DigbethDiner.

Jennifer Cook Food Writer

Following their recent relocation to Winterbourne House, the Student Gardening Society was busy this week harvesting produce from their old allotment, behind the Guild, in anticipation for the move to their new plot. As of this academic year, the Student Gardening Society has been absorbed into a larger co-operative known as The Winterborne Society.

With a variety of different opportunities available for students, from photography and music to the preservation of historical archives, the society is eager to welcome new volunteers and to hear any new ideas that you might have.

Anyone interested in joining, or finding out more information, is invited to a Winterbourne Society meet and greet: 3.30pm on the 12th November, Winterbourne House (TBC).

For confirmation of event information search the Facebook page ‘UoB Student Garden’

redbrick.me/food

7th - 20th November 2014

21

Recipe of the Fortnight: Parkin with Ginger Brittle Flames Take a look at our recipes on www.redbrick.me/food/recipes

Mr Gelato review Why the newest local food establishment is quickly becoming "the sweet treat of Selly Oak" Rosie Twells Online Editor

Mr Gelato is the newest addition to Bristol Road and is a most welcoming sight to the Selly Oak community. At the time of writing, the dessert shop has only been open 11 days and already appears to be extremely popular.

The interior is modern, bright and spacious with several booths and tables positioned towards the back of the shop. Mr Gelato brings a breath of fresh air to Selly Oak – located in between Subway and Urban Village – the bright and distinctive shop front ensures that it stands out against the hustle and bustle of the high street.

"The ingredients come from Italy and the staff have had teaching in mastering the techniques of making the finest gelato " One of the main difference between

gelato and ice cream is the nutrition analysis. Typically, ice cream has a 5-10% fat content and contains more sugar. On the other hand, gelato is well-liked due to its smooth and creamy texture. This is because in the manufacturing process it is churned at a slower pace in comparison to ice cream.

The gelato in Mr Gelato is freshly made every day on site. The ingredients come from Italy and the staff have had first-hand

"The Jammie Dodger, Jaffa Cake and Ferrero Rocher were among the most inventive gelatos " teaching in both Italy and the UK in mastering the techniques of making the finest gelato.

When asked what makes Mr Gelato special, the manager made three definitive points: desserts are an extremely popular product; the shop presented itself a relaxing environment to chill out, and all of the products available were very enjoyable.

There is a diverse range on offer at Mr Gelato. Not only in terms of products, but

also flavours. With too many to mention, Jammie Dodger, Jaffa Cake and Ferrero Rocher were the most inventive eye catching gelatos. There were also many fruit, traditional, chocolate bar and sweet flavours to try. As well as gelato, the dessert shop serves milkshakes, waffles, sundaes, cookie dough, cakes and tea and coffee. We tried a selection of gelato and they were all very moreish in flavour. A ‘cookie monster’ waffle was ordered and it was pure pudding heaven. The neat presentation was appreciated and the waffle was stacked high with various toppings.

"A very clean place, friendly staff and a cosy atmosphere"

Mr Gelato is definitely the sweet treat of Selly Oak. A very clean place to eat, friendly staff and a cosy atmosphere can all be found in this dessert shop. I would highly recommend this place for all - especially those who are looking to satisfy their sweet tooth. The only thing I will be ‘ice-(s) creaming’ for now, with regards to dessert, is gelato.

#feedmeredbrick competition winners are announced!

Safiyyah Gareeboo

2. George Adye:

4. Fi Said:

3. Helena Smith:

5. Matt Parr:

Food Editor

It's been a stomach-churning journey sifting through our entries, and at times we've questioned whether we'd be able to face another picture of mould, mess or mouse attacks. Needless to say, the team powered on and are pleased to announce that we will be rescuing the following five people from their food nightmares!

All five of our winners will receive a £20 voucher courtesy of Hungry House!

For 20% off your next order, head to http:// hungryhouse.co.uk/blog/student-discount/ and register with your student ID.

1. Emily Jones:

22 7th - 20th November 2014

redbrick.me/tech

Science & Technology

Skype Qik: The Snapchat Imitation

In the wake of all the technlogical era's quick photo and message apps, Skype have joined the crowd in a new merger.

But will their foray into the market live up to all our expectations?

Roshni Patel Sci&Tech Writer

So it’s not really Snapchat, but you’ll find that Skype’s new service has many echoes of the popular app. Released October 14th, Skype Qik is aimed at everyone as an instant form of communicating between otherwise infrequent video calls. But is it worth the download?

A product of Skype’s 2011 acquisition of Qik, the company originally behind the app, Skype Qik aims to re-launch Skype back into the mobile market. Despite already having a dedicated Skype app - it’s not commonly used; often being passed over for apps such as Facetime, Google Hangouts, Facebook Messenger and any of the countless other messaging apps. The average video call on Skype last about 40 minutes and is often infrequent.

What Skype needed was something quick and easy to use, something that followed the growing trend and was likely to be adopted by many and not only Skype users.

On the face of it, Qik is an a mash-up of all the features of the popular apps you know and have come to love. To start, login with your mobile phone number just as you would for Whatsapp or Viber.

This makes Skype Qik more accessible to all and not just Skype and Microsoft account holders. Just as

"They've stolen ingredients from all their competitiors" you would for Vine, you record a short video, however Qik gives 7 times the amount of seconds allowing more room for chat! Clips are square-framed, like Instagram, and are as fleeting as Snapchat videos; being deleted after 2 weeks.You can even delete messages before your friends see it.

Skype Qik is great for short messages to an individual or a group, allowing you to voice your feelings faster than typing away for a while or having an in-depth conversation face to face. Equipped with the ability to switch cameras midway through your recording,

it’s great for showing people what you’re looking at or how you're feeling. But if you haven’t got time for a message, why not send a pre-recorded ‘Qik Flik’, a 5 second gif of your frequent replies or feelings. You could pre-record your disapproving head shake, an excited expression or even your best puppy dog eyes. You can store up to 12 of them and send them whenever you can’t make a clip.

Overall, the app is off to a good start, but needs a little maturity to ever topple our student favourites.

They’ve stolen ingredients from all their competitors, but until they refine their first iteration further; I fear the conversion from what we’re used to may be slow. As of yet the Qik Flik feature isn’t available on Windows Phone and you can’t currently block contacts on iPhones. Nevertheless, Skype Qik is fast gaining traction, especially after Snapchat’s recent bad press.

The question that remains unanswered is will Skype Qik gain enough steam to conquer the giants and nestle itself onto our phones?

Try it out for yourself from the App Store or Google Play; available now.

Heart-In-A-Box Emma Houghton Online Sci&Tech Editor

A revolutionary medical procedure, developed at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney, Australia, may be the answer to the insufficient number of available organ donors.

The first transplants of “dead” hearts have been successfully carried out, saving and improving the lives of 3 seriously ill patients.

The transplanted hearts were clinically recognised as “dead” because they stopped beating while still inside the donor. In normal practice, donor hearts are taken from patients who have been announced brain dead, but whose bodies are still physically alive.

The hearts are then kept on ice until they are ready to be transplanted into the recipients.

Unusually, even after being removed from the body, the heart continues to beat!

The heart is an organ which regulates its own contractions, without needing neuronal input from the brain. It contains a series of electrical conducting nodes, the most important of which being the sinoatrial node, which generates

regular electrical impulses. These impulses then pass through the cells in the walls of the atria and ventricles via the atrioventricular node, which synchronises their muscle contractions. The result is the regular repetitive double-beat that we associate with living hearts.

Although the normal transplant process has proven to be successful, there are some disadvantages.

For example, keeping a still-beating heart on ice, without any blood or nutrients flowing through it, can

"The new machine has been used to resurrect 3 dead hearts" lead to a significant level of muscle damage. This can make it more difficult for recipient patients to recover after the transplant operation. Furthermore, only being able to use hearts from brain dead donors seriously limits the number of available donor organs. As a result, many seriously ill people do not receive the treatment they need in time to save their lives.

Australian doctors have been working for over 12 years to overcome this hurdle. Finally they have developed a preservation fluid which can be injected into the tissues of a heart that has stopped beating. The injected heart is then connected up to a “heart-in-a-box” machine, which introduces blood and nutrients into the organ. The heart is then warmed up and, as the temperature increases, it begins to beat again of its own accord.

So far, the new machine has been used to resurrect 3 hearts that had been “dead” for up to 20 minutes. 2 of the 3 recipients have already made full recoveries, with the third and most recent to undergo the operation still recovering in intensive care, but doing well. The first ever patient, Michelle Gribilas, who is a 57 year old suffering from congenital heart disease prior to the operation, says “I’m a different person altogether, I feel like I’m 40 years old”.

This new process could potentially save many lives by making more organs available and by reducing the length of waiting lists.

Similar procedures have also been developed for other organs; livers from dead donors have already been successfully transplanted.

redbrick.me/tech

7th - 20th November 2014

23

Mutant Genes Can Cause Violent Crimes

New research has found that many people across the globe carry specific genes which may be causing them to commit violent crimes.

Amy Thompson Sci&Tech Writer

Two new genes have been discovered which could explain the reason why some people are more likely to commit serious crimes such as: murder, GBH and assault and battery.

A study published in the journal of molecular psychiatry, focused on two genes that were associated with violence: the MAOA gene and the CDH13 gene.

MAOA is important in the control of two neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin within in the brain; both are involved in mood and behaviour regulation. Whilst, CDH13 is known to be related to

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

The study was published by a research team from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden. The team studied over 900 criminals who were placed into two groups; violent and non-violent. It was shown that the criminals who had committed violent crimes had a higher frequency of the genes encoding violent behaviour when compared to the non-violent group. They also found that the violent criminals with the mutated versions of the two genes were 13 times more likely to have a history of violent behaviour.

The data from this latest study shows that crimes and genes could be related more than we thought.

However, there could be greater

implications from this study.

Similar studies in the past linking crime and genes have led to lesser sentences for offenders.

For example, in Italy a murderer had their sentence shortened

"13 times more likely to have violent behaviour history" by a year in 2009; as they had shown to have genes that were linked to violence. Therefore, the judge ruled that the criminal would have less control over their behaviour if provoked. This was the first time that genetics had altered a person’s sentence within a European court.

Conversely in 2006, a defence lawyer in the USA used the evidence that a criminal had MAOA, with a background of child abuse, as an explanation for the accused’s reasoning for committing double murder. This was stated by the defence team as a way of persuading the jury into considering the innocence of the defendant.

Despite this evidence, the jury did not lessen the sentence but made the time until parole longer. The jury felt the perpetrator of these crimes was a threat to society and deserved longer in prison.

Nevertheless, it was also stated in the study that the mutated genes can also be found within the public in high frequency. It's estimated that one in five people possess at least one of the two mutated genes

without having committed any violent crimes or without showing any violent behaviour. It must be concluded that environmental factors; such as family history, living conditions and childhood well-being must also be of key importance in the manifestation of violence in individuals with these genes.

However, this recent study’s publication, alongside with many others has raised questions over how someone can effectively judge if a person’s genes have influenced them to commit a crime, violent or not? With more research into the links between genes and their behavioural responses in humans, will we see more use of genetics within the courtroom and if so how may this affect sentencing in the future?

Media Industry Wants 'Reboot' Will Edmondson Sci&Tech Writer

PHD Worldwide is a creative power in the media and communications industry, so why would a physicist like myself attend one of their London seminars?... Jason Silva!

The futurologist, cinematographer and ‘awe junkie’, famous for hosting National Geographic’s Brain Games and authoring a string of Internet delivered philosophical monologues, was chosen

by PHD to ‘stretch the minds’ of

the media attendees.

The intention of Silva’s talk was to raise awareness of a currently shifting paradigm; one in which the world is on a course for a new dawn in technological immersion, dubbed by some as ‘The Singularity’. The talk explored the ways in which we currently experience the digital environment are rapidly evolving.

So is new development in thinking required to prepare for changes of this scale? The host, PHD's worldwide strategy and planning director Mark Holden, who developed the global series of conferences, certainly believe so.

From the seminar it was clear that Holden is passionate about a new technological age. He referenced a time, not too far in the future, when humans will be sufficiently advanced to store the entire contents of their brain on a version of iCloud. At this point, it became clear that a scientific presence was no longer unwelcome at this media conference.

Holden, who scouted Silva to talk at PHD seminars, introduced him by declaring his hope to ‘reboot’ the audience’s ‘intuitive sense of tomorrow’.

Without alluding to any current corporate practical advice, Silva

immediately addressed the future.

He showed videos from his YouTube archive delivering the idea that the consumer population is already ‘transhuman’ when he or she is holding a smart phone or tablet, and that this advancement is only in its adolescence.

To illustrate that our lives have changed as a result of currently existing technology, a three minute film was shown reflecting on how time-lining social media applications, namely Instagram, have changed the way in which we keep a mental diary of our own experiences. By blurring the background and enriching the colour scheme,

Silva says we are preparing memories through filters which were not accessible before. This is the idea of a Nobel Prize winning psychologist and with no direct link of its impact on media strategy being drawn during the body of his speech it was hard to see its relevance.

As a fan-boy of Silva’s YouTube channel I had been exposed to a lot of the talk's content before. But for me the exciting prospect of the event was the apparent eve of an enormous upgrade in consumer based technologies grabbing the attention of the first big companies outside of Silicon Valley.

Final Phone Upgrade Imminent Robert Wescott Sci&Tech Writer

Fed up with buying a brand new phone for it to feel out of date after just a few weeks? Or always looking at those new handsets with that even better 20 Megapixel Camera, Quad Core CPU or Super AMOLED backlight screen? Well your smart phone woes may soon be over; Google are currently working on a solution to this problem - modular phones.

A modular phone is essentially a smartphone that can be broken down into its components (Modules) and these can then be swapped and matched together.

Essentially this means that the user would have a smartphone scaffold on which they could build the

phone they want from scratch. The modules would consist of the desirable parts of modern smartphones, like cameras, screens, SD slots... that the user could easily buy from shops. The modules and skeleton would then fluidly work together as one and could even be “hot-swapped” without the gadget being powered off. This would give consumers a highly customizable smartphone experience as technology improves over time.

The development effort to create modular phones is named Project Ara, codenamed after a leading mechanical engineer on the team. The concept has been around for a while now (2012), but only recently have functional prototypes been developed which have started to be attract a lot of current interest.

What does this mean to the average student, like you or me?

Well, if these phones take off then it would allow us to be free from wanting to upgrade a whole new smartphone every few years. If a friend bought the newest Samsung, with a finger print sensor or we really need that brighter screen or more reliable Wi-Fi you would only have to buy the module to compete.

As many students like to feel individual, this phone would enable the creation of a highly personable phone that is reflective of what we feel is important and functional in a phone. The extra expense of overly powerful parts that are not needed can also be cut out, thus saving us money - every student’s dream! Even better if the phone was dropped and the screen

smashed another could just be bought easily and cheaply swapped!

There would also be a reduced cost overall; a new phone would not have to be bought when the camera becomes outdated. This keeps our phones up-to-date whilst not having to throw out a device every 18 months (or giving it to Mum) and generating more electronic waste for the environment.

Currently Google have brought out a prototype called Spiral 1 at NK labs. This can boot Android Jelly-Bean and run some applications. On the 14th of January 2015, Spiral 2 will be unveiled which should show more features and

improvements. The plan is to have modules on the phones, which have swappable covers, so that the aesthetics of the phone can be tailored. That way, your phone can still have your favourite pet picture on its back, if you really want.

When will these phones be available? Well according to Paul Eremenko - head of Project ARA, early devices are on the horizon; “we will share early plans for a market pilot in 2015”. The company plans to eventually produce a basic modular phone that costs around $50-100 to make, but the end price for consumers is unknown at this point.

Check out the latest creature feature online!

24 7th - 20th November 2014

redbrick.me/film

Film

Focus on: Release Timelines Critic Anthony Keen discusses whether film release timelines are becoming too much...

Review: Horns

Details Release date: 29th October 2014 Director: Alexandre Aja Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Juno Temple, Max Minghella Running time: 120 minutes IMDB rating: 6.6

««««« Andrea Giannini Critic

Ever since the surprise success of the previously minor superhero Iron Man in 2008, Marvel has been blazing a trail across the cinematic landscape, creating the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe) in the process.

With the advent of the first Avengers film, there’s something else Marvel have been pushing, and that’s the ridiculously large gap between the announcement of a film, and when it is actually released.

It’s not just Marvel that have begun doing this though. Fox, owners of the Fantastic Four and X-Men franchises, have also started this ‘projected release date’ scheme, as well as Sony, who own Spiderman. At the end of last week, Warner Bros. also blew their proverbial comic-book load on the press, with the announcement of 15 films from the pages of DC comics. On the 28th, Marvel announced 9 more films to add to their cinematic universe. With those 9, there are now a total of 39 films being released that are comic-book-based, starting Nov 7 of this year, and ending all the way in 2020. 6 years away.

"Fox, owners of the Fantastic Four and X-Men franchises, have also started this ‘projected release date’ scheme."

Now, let me just begin by saying that the announcements made are fantastic. There are several Marvel and DC characters getting films that create a lot of diversity in the genre, bringing female solo movies as well

as black superheroes. But this practice may soon become a problem.

This strategy of announcing films so far in advance is probably commonplace within the executive offices of all of these companies – you have to have a projection of where your assets are going to be over the next 6 years – or indeed the next decade. But the interesting thing here is that these megacompanies are letting us know about these plans when they make them, instead of in a few years. They’re telling us that The Flash movie is coming out on March 23, 2018 now, instead of announcing it in the summer of 2017.

It seems though, that the real reason why this is happening is two-fold. The first is because of Marvel and, as mentioned before, their MCU. After the success of Marvel’s early films, it became apparent that they were building towards something big, which turned into The Avengers film. People began expecting announcements of what films would come next, due to MCU phases 2 and 3. This caused all the other ‘Comic book movie’ studios to jump on the hype bandwagon and announce their release dates too.

The fan-base clamours for more, so the studios give them more. Events like comic-con and other conventions just facilitate this – fans are expecting a big announcement, pushing studios to make big reveals for movies that haven’t even been cast yet.

The second reason is a little petty, and also simple. Marvel announces its MCU Phase 3 line-up. Warner Bros. responds with a huge number of DC movies, including Justice League and Batman vs. Superman.

Marvel retorts again with 9 more movie announcements. Not wanting to be left out, Sony announces a clutch of Spiderman franchise films, with Fox not far behind with their Fantastic Four and X-Men films. The

announcements only stop when the ammunition does, and whilst for now it has, the next round may not be far off.

"Whilst every Marvel franchise is separate (to an extent), every film affects every future one."

But where does this leave the fans? The earlier the announcements get, the longer the audience feels like they’re waiting for the pay-off. Whether the end product is bad or good matters very little – the films will often result in sell-out weekends due to the hype, and studios are able to plan sequels before even checking box office figures, or critics’ reviews. And yes, this is fine whilst the studios keep making quality films, its dangerous territory to be in (Fox and their Fantastic Four franchise are one of a few that could begin a decline).

Another issue comes from the average cinema-goer. Whilst every Marvel franchise is separate (to an extent), every other film affects every future one. Conceivably, if you want to be totally up-to-date for Avengers: Age of Ultron, You’ll have had to watch around 9 films to catch up. It’s an issue that comes up in the comic-book world too, though Marvel and DC have got round the issue through reboots – but to someone new to the genre, or the franchise, it can seem awfully daunting. With that and the list of some 40 other films on the way, alienation could be a problem. And personally, I’d rather not see the superhero-movie genre become an exclusive club.

Horns, based off the novel by Joe Hill, is a supernatural suspense film mixed with dark comedy. The story itself is intriguing and keeps the audience captivated, though the movie is lengthy and has some flaws.

Daniel Radcliffe does a good job in portraying Ig Perrish, a man who is the primary suspect in his girlfriend’s (Merrin’s) rape murder. He becomes the pariah of his town, and everyone except his brother and his lawyer friend hate him and assume he is guilty. In the midst of this, Ig develops horns, which give him a weird power: people tell him their innermost thoughts and follow his instruction. Eventually, he catches on to the potential of the horns and uses them to figure out who really murdered his long-time girlfriend.

Some parts of this film are overly drawn out. In the beginning, when Ig is figuring out the truth telling power of the horns, it takes him a few too many encounters with people before he realizes the advantages of them. On a positive note, these encounters are dark, yet the abrupt nature of the startling confessions is shocking in a comical way.

As for the plot itself, you can guess who the true murderer is, but the build-up of what happens to Merrin and why, really does reel the audience in. This is done through a series of flashbacks and present day scenes, which are enlightening to the story and further intrigue the viewer.

One of the best parts of the film is the vibrant coloring throughout. The forest, where Merrin and Ig spend a lot of their time growing up is this amazing green color, which is extremely beautiful and symbolic of their own little Garden of Eden. The religious connotations of this and of the rest of the film do not go unnoticed however, and are even overbearing at times.

Overall, the storytelling of Horns can outweigh its negatives; this film succeeds in being suspenseful and a dark comedy, and if that’s what you’re into, then it might be worth a watch.

redbrick.me/film

7th - 20th November 2014

25

Film News Matt Dawson Critic

Not to be outdone by DC Comics, Marvel have stepped things up by announcing their slate of films until 2019 at a press event, culminating in the two-part Avengers: Infinity War. Notable titles include: Captain America: Civil War (May 2016), Doctor Strange (November 2016), Black Panther (November 2017), Captain Marvel (July 2018) and Inhumans (November 2018)

On a related note, Marvel have cast their Black Panther, announcing Chadwick Boseman (42, Get On Up) as part of their same event. That, along with the announcement of Captain Marvel getting her own movie, means that they are finally tackling the demographic of a leading black and female superhero lead respectively.

Review: Nightcrawler Critic Vafa Motamedi reviews this journalistic thriller...

Details Release date: 31 October 2014 Director: Dan Gilroy Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Rene Russo, Bill Paxton Running time: 117 minutes IMDB rating: 8.4

Vafa Motamedi Critic

A lone figure wanders through the night in search of death and destruction. He has no interest in causing it, only observing and filming the car crashes, shootings and blazes that overrun the city of LA. After a nights work he edits the footage he has filmed and delivers it to a local TV news station who buy it off him in a desperate attempt to boost their ratings. Rinse and repeat every night.

His name is Louis Bloom and he considers himself a reputable businessman.

Such is the premise of Nightcrawler, the debut feature of writer-director Dan Gilroy and what an astounding debut it is. Both scary and funny in equal measure, the film is a study of a highly driven yet disturbed man and what he is willing to do to attain his career goals. It’s also gives a fascinating insight into these real-life ‘nightcrawlers’ who film disasters and crimes in order to sell them on. The film uses them as a metaphor for our society’s depraved voyeurism and our love-affair with rampant careerism.

Jake Gyllenhaall’s portrayal of Bloom is

one of the great performances of the past few years. Bloom is a monster, a dead eyed, nasal voiced psychopath who comes across as less human and more of an alien donning the skin of one. His physical gauntness belies his mental emptiness- there is something missing within him and though he wears the veil of polite awkwardness, beneath it is a fountain of hate and dangerous ambition. Gyllenhaall sells all this perfectly. He is terrifying because he is unknowable, Gyllenhaall rarely, if ever, letting us in.

It might be too dark for the Academy to honour but I’d be surprised if there were a more deserving winner for Best Actor this year.

"The film is an acidic condemnation of our culture’s preoccupation with violence and the suffering of others... we seem to get a perverse kick out of it."

Elsewhere on the acting front we have Rene Russo and an unrecognizable Riz Ahmed. Both are stellar as the boss of the news programme and as Bloom’s assistant respectively, the former a chilling yet sympathetic portrayal of a desperate woman and the latter serving as the film’s compromised moral core. Bill Paxton is in it too but don’t hold that against it.

Aside from Bloom, the film’s greatest strength is its skill in balancing both razor sharp satire and knuckle whitening tension (the climax is a master class in tension and action). The film is an acidic condemnation of our culture’s preoccupation with violence and the suffering of others. On a daily basis we watch the TV, desperate for our next fix of real life horror. When someone is brutally murdered we seem to get a perverse kick out of it, like we would huddled round the campfire listening to old ghost stories. But,

as Nightcrawler maintains, these aren’t just stories. These are real people and we treat their pain and deaths lightly at the expense of our own morality and compassion.

The film also lampoons 24 hour news and highlights quite succinctly, the ethical dilemma that surrounds it. Is it possible to balance journalistic integrity with the desire to gain more ratings? Does journalistic integrity exist when truth-telling becomes big business? Is there any truth to be found or are we being told what we want to hear?

The film asks all these questions and what’s most impressive is that it doesn't shy away from answering them. In fact, the film wears its condemnation of its subject proudly on its sleeve, though never dipping into obnoxiously didactic territory.

The final target of satire is that of the new strain of ultra-individualistic capitalism that has emerged in recent years. Bloom is obsessed with beginning a career. He doesn't care what it is in, he just wants one. He speaks in comically empty business jargon as if the only things he’s ever read are selfhelp books. He slaves away on online business courses, trapped in the delusion that what he is doing is a legitimate business. We laugh at him for this but gradually these laughs grow silent as the film progresses when Bloom’s fantasies slowly begin to come true.

All this naturally harkens back to two Scorcese/De Niro films: Taxi Driver and King of Comedy, both of which feature angry obsessive men wandering the streets of a metropolis alone in search of a seemingly unattainable dream. Yet while Di Niro's protagonists are, for the most part, vilified and rejected by the world around them, Bloom finds himself validated; he may be a monster but he’s a valuable monster. The worlds of 24 hour news and business need people like him to survive.

Ultimately though, like all our other institutions, we only get the news and the businessmen we deserve. Gilroy’s fantastic tour de force is a mirror and though we may not like what we see, we can’t help recognize its dark familiar face.

Details surfaced this week concerning the Terminator reboot/sequel Genisys, which will reportedly play around with the original timeline. This news arrived along with an Entertainment Weekly article with fresh images of Jason Clarke, Jai Courtney, Emilia Clarke and Matt Smith in an unspecified role. Directed by Alan Taylor, Terminator Genisys comes out July 2015.

With less than 2 months until the conclusion of Peter Jackson’s Hobbit trilogy, details have arisen saying that The Battle of the Five Armies’ final sequence will last around 45 minutes. Jackson has said: “We have a rule that we’re not allowed to go more than two or three shots of anonymous people fighting without cutting back to our principal characters. Otherwise the audience just ends up with battle fatigue.”

26 7th - 20th November 2014

redbrick.me/music

Music

Redbrick Meets: Superfood Matt Moody Music Editor

@mattmoody17

This week, Superfood will release a critically acclaimed debut album and headline NME’s New Breed tour, but before that, the important stuff - how do they feel about new Snobs? Bassist Emily is a fan. “Insane.

There’s a smoking area... on a balcony!”

Frontman, Dom Ganderton, is even more enthusiastic - “I went two nights in a row last week, and I even managed to spend loads of money - normally you can go to Snobs with a tenner and come out totally w*kered with some spare change”.

Despite their growing success, the band have resisted the allure of the capital in favour of their beloved Birmingham... except Dom, that is. “Yeah I moved down there last

week but I don’t like it, I’m just gonna AirBnB my flat, make loads of money and move back”. Aside from the legendary Snobs, it’s Digbeth that gets the Superfood seal of approval: “it’s got to be the Rainbow if you’re out for a proper big night” although tonight’s afterparty is at the Sunflower Lounge: “well, we’ll just say there’s one there anyway... it’s a public bar isn’t it?”

It’s not long before the subject of fancy dress comes up - it is Halloween after all.

The band are resplendent as the characters of 90s cartoon ‘Hey Arnold!’, complete with painted-on monobrow for Emily as Helga.

Where did they get the idea? “I think it’s just that we have an uncanny resemblance to them” says Dom. “We were gigging in Southampton a while back and someone came up to the stage with a picture of the Gerald guy from the show and just held it

Redbrick Meets: Clean Bandit Alice Sheppard Music Critic

Alice Sheppard chatted to Clean Bandit about band names, classical influences, and love interests.

So you’ve been described as a fusion of genres including pop, electronic and classical. Was it a conscious effort to introduce classical music to a wider audience or is it something you just do because it sounds cool?

No that’s never been a conscious thing. It’s not something we’ve actually tried to do with Clean Bandit and we don’t really use any classical music in our songs anymore!

There are two tracks on the album which sample classic stuff and that’s ‘Mozart’s House’ and ‘Rihanna’ but other than that, we use acoustic themed instruments but not classical music per se.

On listening to the album I heard interesting instruments such as the steel drums. Who decides what sounds make it onto the album?

There’s actually quite a lot of steel drumming on our album- which Grace has started to play live which is cool but, in terms of who picks what, Jack does the mixing on tracks so the sound really comes from him.

I’ve read that the name Clean Bandit comes from a Russian translation of a naughty phrase; another form of ‘utter rascal’. Did you struggle in coming up

with this and did you have any other potential names?

We came up with loads of names but they were all kind of crazy! None of them stuck in our mind. Our quartet at University was called The Chatto quartet as that’s Grace’s surname so we played under that name for a while when starting out.

And is it quite crazy for you to think that in the past year that you’ve suddenly made it big when really you’ve been around for a few years?

Definitely! Things have changed a lot for us in the past eight months, and it is quite hard work. It’s been really fun but we’ve all adjusted to it and taken it in our strides.

I’ve heard that, as a band, you’re very DIY! What’s your opinion on X factor as a form of creating artists and, if you had to perform a song, what would you pick?

I don’t have a problem with X factor's format. I guess there are some great singers that have come from reality TV. Will Young is amazing!

So, in terms of DIY, I heard that you produce your own videos that involve a variety of odd things such as head groping, escalators and Japanese fish markets! Who comes up with this stuff?

Jack usually comes up with the main concept, and then Grace kind of makes it happen. It’s quite improvisational as we end up going to locations and taking our cue from what we come across. ‘Rather Be’ is the one video we’ve made that did have an over-arching narrative from the beginning

next to Ryan’s face.” Emily tells us about a friend of the band’s considerably more extreme outfit for the evening. “Our friend Jay went to your uni, and his outfit is consisting of black jeans, a blazer, a shirt with a hole ripped in it and a real pig’s heart... he was like ‘do you reckon that’s a good idea?’ and we were like ‘yeah definitely mate...’, he’s gonna smell delicious”.

"Normally you can go to Snobs with a tenner and come out totally w*kered with spare change" When asked about their favourite track on the album, the band are mostly in agreement. 'It’s Good To See You’ comes out on top, and it’s easy to see why - it boasts the album’s most irresistibly cheerful chorus (and that’s saying something). Strangely, it doesn’t make the setlist this evening despite shaping up to be a fan favourite. “We really

but also there were definitely shots that happened just because we were there.

So considering that you all met at University, do you all live like students when together? Messy house, ready meals, arguments?

It’s quite hard to eat well on tour to be honest; we’re not really like students anymore as living on a tour bus is such a weird existence. You end up in a lot of hotels which doesn’t feel very studenty. University was a long time ago now though!

I suppose it has been 5 years! But does working together and being on tour put pressure on your relationship?

I don’t think so! There’s so many people within our touring party it’s not like it’s just the four of us all the time; we have two singers who tour with us, a tour manager, two sound engineers, a production manager, tech so it doesn’t really feel that intense with twelve people touring all the time.

So does it never get boring on tour with so many people?

It can get a bit boring. I guess the thing is, you’re always in different places you don’t know but you’re only ever there for a couple of hours so you lose the energy to explore them. It then can get boring but it’s also really nice as we have a lot more free time on tour than we do at home.

If the band were stuck on a desert Island what would be their essentials?

Luke can’t survive more than a couple of days without a skateboard, so we’d need one of those. Grace can’t survive a couple of minutes without an iPhone. Jack and I are a lot more low maintenance so we’d deal with whatever’s there. But maybe we’d need a love interest; does that count as an essential item?

should start playing it, it’s just hard to fit everything into 45 minutes... clearly we’ve got too many bangers” says Dom. Ryan agrees - “too many sick bangers mate.”

They might not have been entirely serious with that remark, but the album is undeniably full of crowd pleasers. Whether it’s the appropriately spooky Scooby-Doo groove of ‘Don’t Say That’, the Beastie Boys-indebted ode to snacking that named the band, or Champagne Supernova-lite album closer, ‘Like A Daisy’, there isn’t a song that doesn’t go down as well live as it does on record, and there’s always at least one crowdsurfer flying around tonight.

Early on in the interview, Ryan tells us about the time when, sleep deprived after a return trip to Amsterdam, he decided that he “owned Halloween”. ‘A strange concept I know but basically, of all the things in the world that you can own, I just had this feeling that Halloween was my thing, y’know?’

We didn’t get it either but, although it might not have been what Ryan meant, there’s no doubt Superfood owned Halloween this year.

redbrick.me/music

7th - 20th November 2014

27

Tweet of the Week: @YuckBand: "What's your fave member of #OneDirection?

Mine has to be Chris #Chris""

Album Review: The Ting Tings Super Critical Conrad Duncan Music Critic

@conradduncan1

The music business hasn’t been kind to The Ting Tings. Even before their second album arrived in 2012, they’d already been confined to the category of “artists people used to listen to”, with the likes of Mika and Scouting For Girls; now ‘Super Critical’ arrives, with commercial success as nothing more than a distant memory.

Nevertheless, ‘That’s Not My Name’ remains a pop rarity; a song that came out of nowhere and reached the top of the charts on the basis of good writing and originality. There's still plenty to like about that debut, even if its sequel ‘Sounds from Nowheresville’ was as rubbish as its title. So, it's heartening to see elements of this new album that work favourably for the band.

That said, it’s a flawed record; one that fails to fully commit to its sound. Elements of dance music have always been present in The Ting Tings music, going back to ‘Shut Up and Let Me Go’; but here they’re pushed to the foreground, playing to their strengths, yet too often the band doesn’t go far enough.

Frequently they let promising ideas on tracks, like ‘Do It Again’ and the closer ‘Failure’, either stagnate or end abruptly.

Elsewhere, tracks borrow ideas so heavily that, at points, it detracts from the album.

The title track is a decent enough rewrite of ‘Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin”, but never really aspires to anything greater than that;

Album Review: Parkay Quarts Content Nausea Matt McCrory Music Critic

@iamnotmatty

Parkay Quarts is a difficult project to define - it's made up of two members of the homophone-loving punk quartet, Parquet Courts, who are known for their strippedback, half-poetry-half-punk sound. While two members of the Texan rock band concentrate their efforts on starting families and finishing degrees, guitarists Andrew Savage and Austin Brown have chosen to release a new album, named Content

Nausea, under the moniker Parkay Quarts.

The album keeps the gritty, Lo-fi sound that Parquet Courts have been acclaimed for on previous efforts Light Up Gold and Sunbathing Animal. With this new project , Andrew and Austin have seized the opportunity to incorporate new instrumentation into their music. Fiddle and Saxophone can be heard throughout the album, contrasting against distorted guitar work and creating a surreal soundscape with a varied, detailed texture.

"Fiddle and saxaphone contrast with distorted guitar work to create a surreal soundscape " On this album, Parkay Quarts’ style ranges from aggressive and dissonant, on tracks like ‘The Map’, to the bouncy and bass-driven ‘Everyday it Starts’. Each song is punctuated with a biting lead guitar tone

Album Review: Taylor Swift - 1989 Daniella Bassett Music Critic

I am a Swifty. I always have been.

Since her debut album 'Taylor Swift' in 2006, to her latest '1989' released just a few days ago.

No matter what she does, she manages to make it work. I know a lot of people will disagree with me on this, and feel that her constant stream of ex-boyfriend-hating songs are tiresome and downright awful.

But indulge me a few hundred words to convince you to buy her new album.

1989 features a completely new sound and, more to the point, although she has

‘Green Poison’ manages to overcome its blatant stealing of the bass line from ‘Superstition’ through pure energy and passion.

However, there’s still a lot to love about ‘Super Critical’ and, when The Ting Tings get it right, they deliver some of the best songs of their career. ‘Wrong Club’ is a well-crafted piece of disco that could easily sit alongside anything from Daft Punk’s album last year and ‘Only Love’ is the best thing to come from the band since their original success 6 years ago; reimaging Fleetwood Mac as a dance-rock band with surprising success.

"It's a flawed record one that fails to fully commit to its sound" Unfortunately, the album feels transitional and, as a result, fails to deliver on all fronts; nevertheless it does show a way forward for the band, away from the chart success of ‘We Started Nothing’. Even at its worst, tracks deliver something worthwhile and- maybe with better leadership -could have amounted to more than just a pastiche of disco and funk from the 70s and 80s. ‘Super Critical’ is an enjoyable but ultimately unsatisfying attempt, that does at least retain some of the credibility that was lost since 2008. In the end, that’s probably the best anyone could have hoped for from a Ting Tings album in 2014.

and Andrew Savage’s distinctive vocals.

These vary from the hypnotic 'Psycho Structures’, to a snarling delivery on a cover of Nancy Sinatra’s ‘These Boots Are Made for Walkin’'; perhaps one of the strangest highlights of the album.

Lyrically, Content Nausea is hard to match. The final track ‘Uncast Shadow of a Southern Myth’ is a six and a half minute ballad, filled with soft repetitive chords and a lulling vocal performance, reminiscent of The Velvet Underground. The lyrics meander seamlessly from the abstract to the real, in a Jim-Morrison-esque style, and conjure up imagery of the band’s Texan roots.

Content Nausea comes at a strange time in the band’s career. Parquet Courts’ last effort, Sunbathing Animal, was only released back in May. However, with this new project the phrase ‘can’t have too much of a good thing’ rings true. Content Nausea is definitely worth checking out, providing one of the most accessible glimpses into one of the most expressive and dissonant rock bands around at the moment.

included a handful of her break-up melodies, she has really branched out to explore a whole new range of music. In interviews with press she speaks about how she has drawn on inspiration from 80s pop, among other genres, all represented in the video for 'Shake It Out'.

"The album features a completely new sound" She has managed to fuse the familiar catchiness of her hit singles with the pop and synth of, arguably, one of the greatest eras music has ever seen. This album is suitably cheesy and has such tracks such as 'Shake it Off' and 'Welcome to New York' that make you want to grab your hairbrush and scream at the top of your lungs, while jumping around on your bed; all tunes with a hint of modern pop, mixed with eighties sounds. It also has some Lorde-esque

sounds in songs such as 'I Know Places' and even some Kelly Clarkson/Avril Lavigne elements to tracks like 'All You Had to Do Was Stay'. It is something truly magical: the fusion of past, present and Swift.

One of the main things that I have always loved about Swift's music is her lyrics. Although her style has changed, her lyrics have managed to maintain that country lyricism and storytelling quality which makes some of her lines highly poetic, featuring stunners such as 'So it's gonna be forever or it's gonna go down in flames / You can tell me when it's over / If the high was worth the pain' from 'Blank Space' and 'Bandaids don't fix bullet-holes' from 'Bad Blood'.

Overall, whether you're a loyal Swifty that's been there from the beginning, a newcomer or someone who can't stand the catloving singer, this album is one to listen to even once for it's sheer variety and individuality.

28 7th - 20th November 2014

redbrick.me/sport

Sport

Top 5: Sporting Twitter Spats

In Focus: The Manchester Derby

After Rio Ferdinand was banned for 3 matches and

Fraser Smith looks at how last weekend's Manchester

fined £25,000 by the FA for a derogatory tweet,

derby unfolded as City arrested their losing streak,

Nathan Smith looks at the Top 5 sporting fall-outs on

putting United further in the mire

Twitter Nathan Smith Sports Reporter

This week, Rio Ferdinand received a three match ban and £25,000 fine from the FA for comments made on twitter in response to an irate fan who called for QPR to sign a new centre back. Ferdinand hit back, saying ‘get ya mum in, plays the field well son! #sket’ a response deemed unprofessional by the FA and punished as such. Since its inception in March 2006, Twitter has been a haven for sporting arguments – so much so that it’s hard to focus in on a top 5! From Ferdinand to Poulter, Hamann to Barton, every sportsman seems to want to vent their feelings on this popular social networking site. Here are some of the most infamous cases: 5) Rio Ferdinand and Piers Morgan Ferdinand is no stranger to a war of words on twitter, famously engaging in a war of words with publicist Piers Morgan. It was all sparked when Morgan tweeted at Ferdinand because he was on the bench; ‘Not injured AGAIN, Sicknote?’ was the first insult thrown by Morgan. Ferdinand preceded to personally insult Morgan, saying ‘tues could be a bad day as Embarrassing Bodies are filming and @piersmorgan starring in episode about moobs’ – once again conforming to the stereotype that footballers aren’t the sharpest with their words and comebacks. This happened in April 2011 and laid the foundations for many spats more controversial than this one.

4) Ian Poulter’s ‘nannygate’

Critics were quick to call golfer Ian Poulter ‘out of touch with reality’ when in August 2014 he tweeted ‘Booked 6 business seats for my wife & nanny to fly home & @ British_Airways downgrade my nanny so Katie has no help for 10 hours with 4 kids’.

Now, as you can imagine his 1.7 million twitter followers were hardly quick to sympathise with Poulter, with some of the responses being: ‘some single mums aren’t lucky enough to have a nanny. Or fly business class’ and ‘well done for distancing yourself from 98.3% of the population.’ I’m sure it doesn’t help such a matter when Poulter’s twitter profile picture is of his sports car collection parked outside a multimillion pound mansion!

3) Death Threats Former Liverpool striker Collymore was the highest profile case of receiving death

threats on twitter earlier this year. Collymore reported these obscene threats to Staffordshire police, who criticised twitter for not doing enough to combat and reprimand the users in question. Collymore is one in a long line of sportsmen who have received such threats on twitter – Olympic gymnast Beth Tweddle was also a victim of such threats at the same time as Collymore.

2) Joey Barton and the world Where to start with football’s most opinionated man? It’s a rarity a week goes by without Barton causing controversy on twitter; from calling Ben Flower’s vicious assault on Lance Hohaia in the Rugby League Grand Final a ‘good dig’ to having rows with any number of footballers and the general public on twitter, it seems Barton spends more time on twitter than on the training ground! Barton has ignited a row with Israeli footballer Yossi Benayoun on

the attack on a school in Gaza, to which Benayoun said of Barton ‘you have been stupid and you will stay stupid your whole life... embarrassing’. He also had rows with renowned footballers Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker and Didi Hamann. His footballing career pales in comparison to his twitter one!

1) ‘Choc ice’ Arguably the most famous footballing outburst was from a popular member of this list – England and QPR’s Rio Ferdinand.

After an on-field race row between John Terry and his brother Anton, where Terry was said to have called Anton Ferdinand a ‘f****** black c***’, one of Ferdinand’s followers tweeted ‘Looks like Ashley Cole’s going to be their choc ice. Then again he’s always been a sell out.’ This came after Cole was part of Terry’s court defence of the accusations and led Ferdinand to respond with ‘I hear you fella! Choc ice is classic!

Hahahahahahha!!’ and led to him receiving a £45,000 fine from the FA.

Manchester City secured a 1-0 win against Manchester United at the Etihad with a 62nd minute by Sergio Aguero. United’s chances weren’t helped when defender Chris Smalling was sent off in the 38th minute for a second bookable offence.

City’s fourth win a row in the Manchester Derby helped them close the gap to Chelsea to six points. It also ends their abysmal run of poor form where they have been unable to secure a win in their past three games.

The first chance fell to Aguero in the 7th minute where his shot was saved relatively comfortable by David De Gea. As highlighted before the game the right flank which was being occupied by Antonio Valencia (acting as the replacement for the injured Rafael) was one of many points of weakness in United’s defence. It was therefore no surprise that the goal came through this side of the field.

Januzaj was the next to poke a shot past Joe Hart’s right hand post following a nice knock-down by Robin Van Persie. United at this stage of the game looked just as likely as City to score first. Aguero was City’s most likely option as shown by the way in which he took the ball down in the 19th minute and took on his compatriot,

down after the break as it looked like Fellaini had hand-balled inside the area.

Again it could be argued that Oliver was right not to call the spot-kick as it was simply too close for Fellaini to move his arm outside the way. The other penalty appeal which City were disgruntled about was in the 59th minute where Fellaini was again involved but again, Oliver may have been right as it looked too much like Aguero was looking for the penalty.

United’s back four by this stage took a different complexion due to the red card and a shoulder injury to Rojo. Michael Carrick and Paddy McNair were now the centre half pair with Shaw and Valencia at either side. It was then in the 62nd minute that Toure slid the ball past a sprawling Di Maria to find Clichy who passed to Aguero to sweep the ball past De Gea. By the 73rd minute, City started to slow the pace down but somehow the ball found its way to Jesus Navas who slammed the ball onto the post. Despite this close shave, the Red Devils grew into the game and City started falling back. One of the key moments of the game saw Rooney turn past Zabaleta and nutmeg Kompany and find van Persie who in turn fed Di Maria. The £60 million man’s shot however was well saved by an alert Hart.

By this point, it was all United as City’s anxiety increased exponentially. Yaya

Marcos Rojo, to fire a shot down into De Gea’s grateful hands.

Smalling’s first yellow card came in the 30th minute as he foolishly looked to block Hart’s goal kick. Just eight minutes later, Aguero made a pass into Milner. Smalling, already on a yellow card, lunged in but Milner was quicker to the ball and brought down on the ground. As soon as he had made the tackle Smalling looked up and knew that he had made a mistake and that Michael Oliver (the referee) would send him off. Van Gaal had no complaints saying to Sky Sports News afterwards that it “was not very smart”.

There were many penalty claims which could have easily been given towards City.

The first of these came in the 41st minute when it was clear to see that Marouane Fellaini kicked Aguero’s right ankle to get to the ball. Half-time was called in acrimonious circumstances when Rojo tackled Yaya Toure on the wrong side to get the ball.

Another penalty appeal was turned

Toure, however, had two chances to finish the game; the first after hitting the ball just wide past De Gea, and the second saw him direct a header over the bar. The stress which was created in the last ten minutes and emanated by the fans was palpable and it was no surprise that there was a loud cheer of pure relief when the final whistle was blown.

Manuel Pellegrini summed up the game well: “when we scored the goal maybe we finished playing thinking the game was over” To many City fans this was a game they had to win to keep pace with Jose Mourinho's Chelsea. His opposing number, Louis Van Gaal, was obviously disappointed but also pleased with the team’s work ethic, stating that “the labour was unbelievable.” Out of the two, the United manager can probably take more out of the game as his team ran the Champions close, despite the red card. United’s onslaught in the latter part of the game also suggests that ‘Fergie Time’ may be seeing a renaissance.

Fraser Smith Sports Reporter

redbrick.me/sport

7th - 20th November 2014

29

Interview with: UoB's student sport stars past & present Alex Kronenberg Sports Editor

In January, Redbrick Sport interviewed Izzy Christiansen after she was called up to the senior England Women's national football team for their training camp in La Manga, having impressed for Birmingham City Ladies and the Under-23 national side.

On February 7th, Izzy signed for Manchester City Women, a newly rebranded club, who would make their debut in the 2014 season of the FA Women's Super League (WSL). It was a tough first campaign in the top flight of English women's football for Manchester City W.F.C., which saw them finish 5th place in the WSL. However, a strong showing in the WSL Continental Cup saw Manchester City and Christiansen reach the final against Arsenal Ladies, renowned for their dominance of the women's game. In a tightly contested affair against the most successful club in English women's football, it was none other than Christiansen who finished off a well-worked move with a cushioned header in the 73rd minute. Izzy's goal proved to be the winner, securing the first piece of major silverware in the club's history.

I caught up with Izzy again, as the latest former student in a long line of University of Birmingham successful sporting alumni, about her cup heroics, life at City and what the future holds.

First of all, how does it feel to have not only won the competition, but to have scored the winning goal in a cup final?

To be honest it's only just sunk in properly, I had a massive come down last weekend because the weekend after the final was crazy with celebrations. But to score in a cup final is the stuff of dreams and for it to

Hugo Moon Sports Reporter

The Sultan of Johor tournament was held recently in Malaysia. The tournament is for international U21 teams and Great Britain sent a strong squad managed by UoB head coach Steve Floyd and with 1st team captain Sam French in the squad. They have both returned from a successful trip with a silver medal; Great Britain’s best ever showing at the tournament. However the nature of their silver is gutting, losing at the death in the final to India, a side they had already beaten 2-0 earlier in the tournament. After a week of reflection, I caught up with them for feedback on the experience.

Congratulations on making it to the final and taking home a silver medal, it’s a great achievement. Due to the nature of the final however, and having already beaten them in the competition, are you happy with the silver?

Steve Floyd: It was a tremendous achievement but obviously disappointing especially when you consider the stats for the game. We had eleven shots at their goal and they only had one at ours in open play but they managed to convert two corners.

[The loss is] harder to take I suppose because they scored their second goal with 15 seconds to go.

Well done Sam on scoring in the final, how did that feel?

Sam French: Scoring in the final was a great feeling, especially as it really got us back into the game at a crucial time, however it was just a shame it didn't enable us to kick on and get the win. [Sam made it 1-1 in

be the winner was an amazing feeling.

Arsenal Ladies are a notoriously strong side and, having won the previous 3 Continental Cups, what were your thoughts heading into the game?

Arsenal are a strong side, and have been for many years in the women's game.

However that didn't phase out preparation.

We knew that if we worked hard and defended as one then we would get our break. Equally, we were confident that our passing game was just as good as there's and it was no surprise that the goal came from a smooth passing move.

What did you do to celebrate your win?

The bus journey back to Manchester from Wycombe let's say was rather loud. We didn't get back until 5am. Then on the Friday night we went out with the staff and a network of people connected with the club, which was great. On the Saturday, we paraded the trophy around the Etihad prior to the mens game vs. Tottenham. We got a great reception from almost a full house.

What are your hopes for next season, both for yourself and Manchester City?

Personal hopes are to score more goals and keep improving as a player. Collectively I have no doubts that the aims will be to win more trophies and challenge for the league.

How have you enjoyed your first season at Manchester City - what have been the highlights?

I would be lying if I said it wasn't an easy transition. I was still based in Birmingham and travelling for training 3-4 times per week. But after my exams I moved up there permanently and we turned full time, and thats been brilliant. I train everyday, most days twice a day. So I would say that is certainty one of the biggest highlights, along with the cup win of course. the 55th minute] What was your biggest high(s) of the tour or perhaps a best memory? Were there any lows?

Floyd: Two highs really, seeing Sam score in the final was brilliant, as was beating Australia 5 – 1. No doubt that the late goal in the final has to be the lowest.

French: A definite high was beating the Aussies 5-1, especially as this secured our spot in the final. My biggest low was obviously losing such a competitive final on the last play.

Do you have any rivalries particularly at international level? Any nations that you especially want to beat?

Floyd: Generally speaking the European competition is our normal rivalry. Despite having struggled for a couple of years recently, we have just had twelve months where we’ve beaten Germany, Holland and Belgium and gained a Bronze medal at the European championships in the summer.

This has been extremely satisfying.

French: I think there is a natural rivalry with the Aussies. This maybe stems from the ashes; there was a real determination to beat them, especially on a personal level as I'd played them in the final of the Australian Youth Olympic festival in Sydney, and lost to them on golden goal.

University of Birmingham is one of the top hockey universities in the country and so you must compete with a lot of your international team mates on the Uni circuit, so is it easy to suddenly come together and play as one unit? Are there ever any bitter feelings from previous matches?

Who have been your toughest opponents this season - player and/or team?

We have had some tough battles with Chelsea LFC. we have met them four times this season in the FA cup, league cup Semi and twice in the league. It's currently 2-2!

There have been some tough midfield battles in those games against their Japanese, Korean and experienced English midfield outfit. Very enjoyable, though.

The women's game seems to really be on the rise at the moment, how big do you think it can become and how exciting is it knowing that you can personally play a part in that?

Yep, very exciting as I'm now in the midst of the rise, not just in football but women's sport in general. I don't think it

will ever be on par with the mens game due to physicalities, and rightly so, but I believe that the talent showcased at times in women's football easily matches the mens game.

I think if it continues to progress like it is now then it can become the most followed and played female sport in the world.

What would you say to any female footballers who would like to try and reach the same standard as you?

Work hard and enjoy what you do... that goes for anything!

And finally, do you still keep an eye out for the UoB scores?

I certainly do!... I sit there refreshing Twitter on a Wednesday afternoon to check the scores... it has been very tense the past two Wednesdays. Go Brum!!!!!

Izzy Christiansen/Twitter French: We spend so much time together as an international squad, both on and off the pitch that we become really good friends, so playing against them is always tough but good fun.

[Steve Floyd was manager of the U21 touring side in a team of three other coaches]. Steve, how does managing an international side differ from managing a university side? How do you go about managing a side with many aspiring full internationals?

Floyd: I have coached and managed internationally over the last 17 years and in the last twelve months I have managed the U21 and Senior men’s sides in world competitions. This has not only been a great privilege, but professionally a great opportunity to enhance my coaching experience and philosophy which is invaluable in my role as

Head Coach here at the University. Managing aspiring full internationals is challenging at times, but, as I say, I have managed the U21s and the full squad recently and thoroughly enjoyed it without any major issues.

Sam, I assume you’re dreaming of playing for the full GB side some day; do you have any specific dreams or goals?

Where would you like to see yourself in the next 5/6 years?

French: Obviously everyone has aspirations but I just like to keep my goals short term, so just concentrating on playing well and leading the university this year.

Congratulations again to both of them, it’s a great result. No doubt they will both go on to represent England and Great Britain at future events.

And let’s hope they can add some BUCS silverware to that medal too!

UoB Hockey

"Based on the first week end of matchs, it's very difficult to say if any one

30 7th - 20th November 2014

redbrick.me/sport

Sport

Five star Brum enhance title credentials in Notts rout 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 Hockey 1sts

Sports Reporter

Birmingham 1sts

5

In the freezing cold English winter weather, the Hockey match between the Birmingham Women’s 1st team and the Nottingham Women’s 1st team took a while to get into the action.

In a game totally dominated by the Birmingham team, in all areas including possession, territory and shots; the Birmingham team put up 17 shots while the Nottingham players failed to shoot at goal.

The first half was not as representative of this as the second, with Nottingham mounting some attacks early on, but nonetheless it got off to a quick start, with Birmingham winning a short corner early on.

Nottingham 1sts

0

"Birmingham put up 17 shots while the Nottingham players failed to shoot at goal."

Despite aggressive play throughout the first half, there was no score before half time. The second half told a totally different story, however, as Birmingham were able to put 5 goals on the board to Nottingham’s none. Just less than 10 minutes into the second half the scoring was opened by Birmingham number 21, with all the pressure paying off.

The remaining 4 goals came in a 10 minute span towards the end of the game.

The second was scored by number 33, who put in a good shot to score. The next two goals, finished by numbers 14 and 20 respectively were both well-worked team-

goals, with a good move leading to the third and a rapid counter-attack resulting in a tap-in for number 20. The fifth goal was the icing on the cake, as the game was already won by that point. A shot from a

"The fifth goal was the icing on the cake, as the game was already won by that point" fair distance by number 25 took a deflection off the defending player before finding the net Towards the end, the Nottingham players began to show some signs of life, but it was too little, too late as Birmingham had closed out the game

"Birmingham have yet to concede through 4 games and have a +goal difference"

Peter Saxon

Trigger Happy: 17 shots in total for positive Brum

The Goal Flurry: 4 goals in 10 mins for clinical Brum

Peter Saxon

The victory leaves Birmingham top of the Premier North division as the only undefeated team, with 12 points, five points clear of second place Durham. They are also yet to concede through 4 games, and have a 17+ goal difference.

"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

7th - 20th November 2014

Wednesday's results

Performance of the week

Tweet of the week

Men

31

D - 1sts Badminton v Warwick 1sts 4-4 D - 1sts Football v Notts Trent 1sts 1-1 W - 1sts Rugby League v Notts 1sts 40-12 W - 2nds Lacrosse v Lincoln 1sts 3-18 Women W - 1sts Netball v L'borough 2nds 31-32

The Hertfordshire Hurricanes arrived in Birmingham last Saturday to take on the Lions at this year’s Xplosion. But the hurricane only turned out to be a meek gust of wind as the Lions ran riot, sinking their opponents 22-0 in front of a raucous home crowd. Before the game, coach Wayne Hill, spoke to Sam Harrison and praised the new squad. “We have recruited well in recent years and players have bought into our philosophy we have seen players step up to the mark to get ready for this season.” For further reaction, including live match feeds and audio commentary, visit http://redbrick.me/ sports/ and http://burnfm.com/sport/.

W - 1sts Lacrosse v Nottingham 1sts 12-7 W - 1sts Hockey v Nottingham 1sts 5-0 L - 1sts Basketball v L'borough 2nds 71-35

Things to look forward to this weekend

Spotlight: Korfball Andrew Spencer takes a look back at last month’s performances by the University’s Korfball’s team.

Brazilian Grand Prix 2014 - November 7: Lewis Hamilton made history at the US GP by winning his 32nd race - the most by a British driver. With a five race win streak behind him, he looks good to take charge in Sao Paolo but his Mercedes team mate, Nico Rosberg, should be hot on his heels.

Photo of the week

Pakistan v New Zealand Test Series November 9-13: Pakistan are fresh from a stunning 2-0 whitewash of the visiting Australians. The Kiwis are on a fine run of form themselves but not many leave with a test series win so the 1st Test will make for interesting viewing.

ATP World Tour Finals, O2 Arena London - November 9-16: Andy Murray, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer are some of the star names turning out this Sunday at the O2 Arena in London. The tournament sees the top 8 seeds competing in two groups. Defending champion Djokovic has his work cut out with 4th seed Stan Wawrinka vying for a place in the semi finals.

sports@redbrick.me @redbricksport Redbrick Sport

Online: The Indian Super League (ISL) has been questioned by some quarters as overshadowing the main domestic season.

Sports Writer, Will Robey explores whether the ISL is benefitting the beautiful game in India.

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

“Over the past month there have been three Korfball fresher’s tournaments held around the UK, hosted by Cardiff, Nottingham and Sheffield. Korfball, a mixed team sport which shares similar rules to Netball and Basketball with a few extra unique rules of its own, has recently been growing in popularity amongst universities. These tournaments were a chance for newcomers to the sport to try it out in a competitive situation, while playing in a relaxed, social environment where all university clubs had to wear (and play!) in team fancy dress.

The Nottingham tournament dress code was ‘Disney/Pixar’ and our university teams participated in short ten-minute matches throughout the day as Tarzan against rival clubs who dressed as characters from films like ‘Up’ and ‘Monsters Inc’. Birmingham performed well on all three weekends and encouraged many Korfball freshers to keep coming along to play in the club to try and improve for the next time our university goes head to head with these rivals on the Korfball court.”

The Redbrick Crossword

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

Crossword by Thomas Hutchinson

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:

Across

7. Vehicle operator (6) 8. Boy who flew too close to the sun (6) 9. Slide against your will (4) 10. A perfectly cromulent word (8) 11. In the womb (2,5) 14. Nautical term meaning 'stop' (5) 15. One who secretly steals information (3) 17. Sterotypical French headwear (5) 19. Female tiger (7) 22. Brought in from another country (8) 23. Large exhibition (4) 24. Light sleep (6) 25. Sharpshooter (6)

Down

1. Mythological giant squid creature (6) 2. Passionate (4) 3. Overdue debt payment (7) 4. ____ Baggins, a hobbit (5) 5. Consequence of excessive drinking (8) 6. Potatoes, yams etc. (6) 12. In one to one combat (3,2,3) 13. Make a decision (3) 16. Historical European Jewish language (7) 18. ____ Blackadder, protagonist of Blackadder TV show (6) 20. Combat engineer (6) 21. Iron alloy (5) 23. Immoral and wicked (4)

‛1‛2‛3‛4‛5‛6‛ 7`````‛8````` ‛`‛`‛`‛`‛`‛`‛ 9```‛0``````` ‛`‛‛‛`‛`‛`‛`‛ -``=``q‛w```` ‛‛‛`‛e`r‛`‛‛‛ ty```‛u````i` ‛`‛`‛o‛`‛‛‛`‛ p```````‛[``` ‛`‛`‛`‛`‛`‛`‛ ]`````‛\````` ‛`‛`‛`‛`‛`‛`‛

32 7th - 20th November 2014

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Sport

P 29 - Interviews with UoB's past and present sports stars

Last-gasp equaliser for Brum secures draw with Notts Trent A repeat of last year's heartbreaking final game of the season, watched by Daniel Brett, saw the points shared thanks to a last minute equaliser for Brum Daniel Brett

Men's Football 1st's

Sports Reporter

Birmingham 1st's

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Birmingham 1st XI showed great resilience to snatch a 1-1 draw against Nottingham Trent 1st XI, thanks to a crunching last minute equaliser from striker Luke Barrow.

In a match which tested the character of Birmingham's players, the home side responded fantastically after falling behind to an 80th minute goal, gaining a point that could be looked back on at the end of the season as a critical turning point.

On the back of an away defeat to Oxford, Birmingham seemed to struggle to gain con-

Notts Trent 1st's

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"The drab first half was overall dominated by two sturdy defences" trol of the match in the opening 30 minutes of play. Captain Declan Kirby tried to marshal the midfield from the offset, but soon a scrappy rhythm to the game emerged whereby Birmingham's possession seemed limited to their own third. Centre-back Callum White was vocal in wanting attackers to show for the ball as he performed an almost quarter-back role and soon Birmingham's strikers seemed to be dropping deeper and deeper in search of a touch. It was Nottingham, however, who seemed to be more likely to score with left-back Alex Cursis offering an attacking outlet with a few surging runs that got the Birmingham defence running back towards their own goal. The drab first half was overall dominated by two sturdy defences that seemed unlikely to make the mistake that looked required to offer a clear sight of goal.

The second half saw Birmingham make noticeable tactical changes to gain more

"The second half saw Birmingham make noticeable tactical changes"

meaningful possession in the final third. In particular the lively Seb Bowman exerted greater influence on the game throughout the second 45 minutes, confidently offering himself as an option in midfield before carrying the ball to Nottingham's penalty area.

It was unsurprising therefore to see Bowman produce Birmingham's first shot on target from distance just after half time. Nottingham

responded well to a promising opening 15 minutes spell from Birmingham to regain the slight upper-hand in the closely fought game, with captain Nathan Stainfield showing he could be as dominant in the opponents penalty area as he could be in the heart of his defence by seeing his header from a 60th minute corner headed off the line.

As the game looked increasingly likely to end 0-0, Birmingham introduced attacking outlet Matt Jones and moved Jake Brown in midfield. It was this first concerted effort to look for a goal that proved to be Birmingham's downfall as a rare corner from the home side in the 80th minute saw Trent break down the right, before the ball was cut back and finished for a well-worked smash and grab goal. Despite a much improved second half performance there was little reason to believe Birmingham

"a rare corner from the home side in the 80th minute saw Trent break down the right, before the ball was cut back and finished for a wellworked smash and grab goal" would find an equaliser having only registered one shot on target all game. A switch to a 3-4-3 formation, however, invigorated Birmingham to build up pressure, firstly hitting a free-kick over from a promising position, before Barrow clipped the ball tantalisingly wide from a cross-come-shot. Despite this spell it seemed that Birmingham would run out of time to find one clear chance, however Nottingham had not counted on centre back Will Richards venturing up from Birmingham's defence to get in front of his man and deliver a cushioned knockdown to Barrow. Birmingham's number 9 met the knock down with the crisp halfvolleyed drive it deserved, leaving the Trent keeper no chance as the ball slammed into the corner of the net at a pace only rivalled by the speed shown by the watching second

Peter Saxon and third XI players in rushing on to mob their fellow Birmingham players.

A conversation with Birmingham coach

"Williams remembers as well as anybody how defeats at critical times narrowly cost his side promotion last year" Rob Williams after the match affirmed what was clear on his players faces. "That goal completely changes the atmosphere of the group", he commented, "the target remains to get promoted and it is clear that promotion will be harder this year. Nobody will

get 24 points this year and matches are only being decided by one goal." Williams remembers as well as anybody how defeats at critical times narrowly cost his side promotion last year and his feeling is that two defeats after three games could have left promotion beyond his team in this 10-game a season format. A refusal to roll over shown by the Birmingham side today, however, gives real reason to believe that anything is possible for this side - after all, a late goal can send out a seismic message to the rest of the Midlands A division and act as the foundation from which runs of form are built on.