Arts live blog from Fierce Festival Follow the coverage at www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick
The University of Birmingham's Student Newspaper since 1936
Friday 18th March 2011 Volume 75 | Issue 1389 redbrickpaper.co.uk
Birmingham staff set for union strike action
Strike to take place on the 22nd and 24th of March Employees urged to accept 0.4% pay rise amid inflation rate of 5% Lectures likely to be affected
Staff discuss next week's strike action outside Staff House on Wednesday evening Tom Byrne Reporter
The University and College Union (UCU) have announced plans to go on strike next week. The strike, which will take place on both Tuesday 22nd and Thursday 24th March, will also include the Birmingham branch of the union, and result in lecturers and administrative staff from the University partaking in strike action on campus. Action on Tuesday will be regarding pensions and proposed changes to the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), which will reduce the overall benefits of most members' pensions, especially for new members. On Thursday the action will concern various other issues such
INSIDE
as higher education cuts, the defending of jobs and pressure upon those who work within higher education to take a pay cut for the second consecutive year. Under the proposed cuts, employees are being urged to accept a 0.4 per cent pay increase for 2010, despite the rate of inflation rising to almost 5 per cent. Strikes will be taking place throughout the week in different parts of the UK. Scottish universities went on strike yesterday, and will be joined by universities in Wales today, Northern Ireland on Monday 21st and England on Tuesday. Members of the UCU consider their course of action to be a last resort and believe it to be the only way for their employers to take notice of their grievances. Furthermore, the UCU
Birmingham branch have declared that they have the support of the Guild of Students, as well as the support of other unions such as UNISON, who will be joining UCU members for a rally on campus on Tuesday afternoon. However, students are prohibited from joining in with the strikes on the picket lines, although they are able to show their support by handing out literature and flyers. With regards to the strike and potential disruption it will cause to students, Birmingham UCU press officer Sue Blackwell said 'It is hard to predict how many members will participate in the strike action, and maybe more will decide to strike on Thursday. However, it does look promising with the support of the Guild and other unions, such as UNISON. There will
undoubtedly be some disruption to lectures and seminars, as well as library and computer services, which is regrettable.' Upon speaking to students regarding their opinion on the strike action and whether they believe it will cause disruption to their timetables, first year History student Ben Rider stated: 'As Thursday is my busiest day I am worried about disruption to contact hours. However, their reasons for striking are valid and something that students should be supportive of.' In contrast, second year Ancient History student Andy Stimson said 'I can see how it will be frustrating for those who will be heavily affected and missing out on considerable contact hours. Also, as the end of term is
Millie Guy
approaching it could cause further undesirable stress due to disruption of library services and limited availability of lecturers. I understand why they see it necessary to strike but believe they could have chosen a better time to take such action.' If students are worried about any disruptions to either their timetable or access to services they should contact a member of staff within their department.
Guild Elections Review >> p.6 | Fierce Arts Festival >> p.12 | Brum Dine With Me Results >> p.20 | Fierce and Finished >> p.22 |
2
redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick Editorial Editor Samuel Lear Deputy Editors Victoria Shires Sam Langtree Online Editor Micaela Winter Treasurer Jonathan Craven Art Director Thomas Walters Photography Editors Freddie Herzog Millie Guy chiefphotographer@redbrickonline.co.uk Technical Director Jeremy Levett News Editors Helen Crane Glen Moutrie Anna Hughes James Brilliant news@redbrickonline.co.uk
Travel Editors Ed Gordon James Cull travel@redbrickonline.co.uk
Technology Editors Stuart Gittings Manpreet Pangli technology@redbrickonline.co.uk Crossword Editor John Rizkallah
News Editorial Assistant Kerrina Gray
Lifestyle Editors Briony Singh Rob Lewis lifestyle@redbrickonline.co.uk
The Mechanical Engineering building is home to this Art Deco sculpture created in 1954 by William James Bloye. The sculpture represents Electrical and Mechanical Engineering coming together through depictions of a cogwheel and a lightening bolt. Ten male figures hold engineering tools including a drawing board, books and a lathe. Tutors on either side break out of the sculptures boundary, representing authority. An inscription from Tennyson's Ulysses reads: 'To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.'
Online Sport Editor Joseph Audley
Film Editors Elmley de la Cour Matt Davis film@redbrickonline.co.uk
Television Editors Charlotte Lytton Amber Alexander tv@redbrickonline.co.uk
Engineering Frieze
Sport Editors James Phillips Simon Hall Sam Price sport@redbrickonline.co.uk
Editorial Assistants Victoria Bull Rochelle Balach Laura Hewitt Vikki Jeff Will Hunter Kate Selvaratnam
Music Editors Will Franklin Charlie Bailey music@redbrickonline.co.uk
University Highlight of the week
Food Editors Harriet Constable Dami Olugbode food@redbrickonline.co.uk
Features Editors Rosa McMahon Seb Mann Ali Hendy Amanda Callaghan features@redbrickonline.co.uk
Arts & Culture Editors Lexie Wilson James Reevell Alexander Blanchard arts@redbrickonline.co.uk
Redbrick
18th March 2011
Online Editorial Assistants Charmaine Katz Becky Sibson Danielle Fox Sophie MurrayMorris Junior Art Directors Lauren Wheatley Jazzarie Lee Bethany Richardson
Flickr
News feed WORLD
EDUCATION
TECHNOLOGY
Japan devastated by earthquake
Higher Education cuts could rise
Microsoft pulls its iPod competitor
An earthquake measuring 9.0 on the Richter scale and the ensuing tsunami struck Japan last week. The disaster has put multiple nuclear reactors at risk of a complete meltdown. The death toll is expected to reach 10,000. Collections are going on throughout the week in Joe's Bar and around the University campus.
Universities could be facing further cuts as no university has proposed to introduce fees of less than £7500 a year. The cuts could range from as much as £50m to £770m as institutions are ignoring the coalition's benchmark figure.
Microsoft has pulled the plug on the Zune, their competitor device to Apple's iPod. The music and video player has been a non-starter since it's launch in 2006. Apple currently leads both the mp3 player and tablet markets.
Designed and typeset by Redbrick. Copyright (C) Redbrick 2011 Redbrick strives to uphold the NUJ Code of Conduct. The views expressed in Redbrick do not necessarily reflect those of the editors, the Guild or the publishers. If you find an error of fact in our pages, please write to the Editor. Our policy is to correct mistakes promptly in print and to apologise where appropriate. We reserve the right to edit any article, letter or email submitted for publication. To contact us: Redbrick Guild of Students Edgbaston Park Road Birmingham B15 2TU 0121 251 2462 editor@redbrickonline.co.uk www.redbrickpaper.co.uk Redbrick is printed through www.quotemeprint. com: 08451 300667. Advertising: Contact Aimee Fitzpatrick in Guild Marketing on 0121 251 2524 or a.fitzpatrick@guild.bham.
POLITICS
TELEVISION
ECONOMY
New PM of the Rep. of Ireland sworn in
Midsomer Murders UK unemployment producer suspended hits 17 year high
Enda Kenny has been sworn in as the new Taoiseach (Prime Minister) after the new coalition government was formed between Fine Gael and the Labour party. Just over three months ago the EU and IMF sent a 85 billion euro bail-out.
Brian True-May, the producer and co-creator of Midsomer Murders, has been suspended from his role following his comments over lack of ethnic minorities appearing in the show. The show is now entering its 14th series.
According to the Office for National Statistics the unemployment rate in the UK has reached 8%. The unemployment rate for 16-24 year olds has also peaked at a rate of 20.6%, rising by 0.8% from last year.
WORLD
CRIME
BUSINESS
POLITICS
Rebels plead for Lybian no-fly zone
Largest paedophile network uncovered
The Japanese Nikkei Miliband pushes 225 rebounds 5.7% Labour to back AV
Rebel forces have been pleading with western powers to announce a no fly zone over Libya to prevent Gaddafi's forces bombing their bases, however the UN has so far failed to agree on intervention after weeks of conflict.
The largest online paedophile ring which included 70,000 members across 30 countries. Of the 170 individuals so far arrested 121 were in the UK and 31 were in Australia. Around 60 children have been put into protection in the UK.
The Nikkei, which fell 16% over Monday and Tuesday, has rebounded. The initial collapse had been sparked by the earthquake and ensuing tsunami. At the time that Redbrick went to press the Nikkei 225 stands at 9,093.72 points.
TECHNOLOGY
CRIME
Copy Editors Anna Lumsden Charlotte Goodwin Elsa Heath Sian Stanfield Olivia Wilson Vanessa Swanson Ellie Smallwood
For meeting times find us on Facebook or email section editors.
by Tom Byrne
Release of the iPad 2 delayed in Japan Apple has announced that it has delayed the Japanese release of its hotly anticipated product indefinitely. This follows Fridays earthquake which has damaged the short term supply for many technology companies.
Stewart receives minimum sentence Former Sunday school teacher Hazel Stewart has been jailed for at least 18 years for the murder of her first husband and the wife of her lover. The murder was originally thought to be a double-suicide until Stewart confessed the crime.
Ed Miliband, the leader of the Labour party, has announced that he would push his party to vote for the change. 200 members have stated that they would vote AV, however Miliband stated that the 'time is ripe for change'.
Redbrick
redbrickonline.co.uk
18th March 2011
The week in quotes Comedian Frank Skinner on being teetotal: 'Even though I haven't had a drink since 1986, I've never felt fully sober.'
Freddie Herzog
Scott Brand on why he decided to try and wrestle a crocodile and lost while in Zimbabwe: 'Unfortunately I had also been sampling Africa's finest lager all afternoon.'
Guild Election winners President: Mark Harrop
An anonymous American writer on CNN's new chat show host: 'How did we get stuck with Piers Morgan? Who is he, why is he here, is he returnable?'
The producer of Midsomer Murders on why the drama is all white: 'We just don't have ethnic minorities involved, because it wouldn't be the English village with them.'
Spotlight on Societies
Comedy Society
Tom Byrne
President: Katie Davison How long has Comedy Society been running for?
What is the society all about?
VP
Democracy & Resources: Hugo Sumner
Comedy Society aims to provide members with opportunities to practice their comedic talents, whether it be writing sketches, performing sketches or performing stand-up in both informal and competition situations. Comedy Society highlights Each term Comsoc perform a sketch show, which have been progressively improving. This year they have had some very talented members of the society entering and getting through to heats of nationwide stand-up competitions, Chortle and Tickled Pig.
VP Education: Edward Bauer
Comsoc in five words Fun, Funny, Experimental, Daring and Deckchair (deckchair is for the ComSoccers...)
Why should we get involved?
comedy awards.
Students can get involved by taking part and coming along to enjoy watching comedy sketches and stand-up.
Upcoming Events
Comsoc also require writers for sketch shows and performers for both stand up and sketches – particularly girls! Three Comsoc Facts 1. They have videos of our sketches on YouTube. 2. One of Comsoc's members performed stand-up. With a snail. 3. One of their members is through to the heats of Chortle stand-up
Counselling Services
VP Housing & Community: is a list of services provided Zuki Below by the University available for stuMajukwana dents who may have been affected by the events in Japan. A full list of external services is also available on WebCT. Your Welfare Tutor
VP Welfare: Luke Reynolds
If you feel these events will impact upon your ability to undertake your learning or assessment, let your School know through either your personal or Welfare Tutor. Contact details of your Welfare Tutor(s) will be in your School, Department or Programme Handbook.
VP Sport: Tim Smith
Multi-Faith Chaplaincy Contact details: telephone 0121 414 7000 / 7001 or go to http:// www.chaplaincy.bham.ac.uk/
Letter from the editor Samuel Lear Firstly, congratulations go to Mark Harrop, Fliss Cross, Hugo Sumner, Edward Bauer, Zuki Majuqwana, Luke Reynolds and Tim Smith, who will form the sabbatical team next year. It is certainly a fascinating make-up, with a variety of different characters with wildly conflicting political views – one senses that the success of the team will depend on how successful they are in reconciling inevitable clashes in viewpoint and reaching sensible compromises. Next year will be a difficult one for the Guild, and University – where we shall start to feel the full pinch from reductions in spending. This will invariably lead to a sensitive reaction that will see the emerging prominence of more radical groups who will take a more provocative stance against the higher establishment.
'the success of the team will depend on how successful they are in reaching sensible compromises...'
Comedy Society was established in 2008; making it a relatively new society.
VP Activities & Development: Fliss Cross
3
Counselling Services
and
There will be the group's regular sketch show during week three of term three. This term the story is based on the 'fictional' 'University of West Midlands', and ComSoc say it will be a great show, darker and more plot based than anything we've done before'. How can we get involved? Auditions for the show will be held Monday 21st March, 3-5pm Tues 22nd 1-3 in the Thompson Training Suite. You can also check out their Facebook; just search 'UoB Comedy Society.'
Deadline issues Guidance
Telephone 0121 414 5130 or for more information go to http:// www.as.bham.ac.uk/studentlife/ counselling/index.shtml. International Student Advisory Service Contact the ISAS by telephoning 0121 414 8464 or isas@contact. bham.ac.uk or visit http://www. as.bham.ac.uk/studentlife/international/index.shtml. The Guild of Students You can telephone them on 01251 2400,or email to thearc@guild. bham.ac.uk
Whilst it is important that the Guild represent the consensus of the student body, the position is more delicate than that. The Guild also has an obligation to ensure the long-term wellbeing of students, and a rash reaction to reductions could potentially damage a great level of trust that the University has with the Guild. Currently, the Guild has a major part in assisting the University in drafting the long-term strategy, and this is a valuable position to hold. The Guild's point of view is better effected from the inside, rather than from the outside.
Owen Earwicker asked 100 students 'Do you think that deadlines for assignments should be more dispersed?' Redbrick has found that some students have several major assessments due in a short period of time, including as many as 6 in one day. If you have any problems regarding hand-in dates please tell us your story via email at news@redbrickonline.co.uk
Top tweets 50cent: Some of my tweets are ignorant I do it for shock value. Hate it or love it. I'm cool either way. Ladygaga: I have a monster fashion announcement are your paws up? I'm so excited I might give birth to a machine gun. ChrisDJMoyles: What are you worried about? I'm like a fat lass at a cake judging contest... I'm not going anywhere! KnownAsPrince: It takes a true woman to understand that the purest form of love is of a man who denies himself to her. boburnham: Can we stop ganging up on 13 year-old Rebecca Black for making crappy music and start ganging up on 36 year-old Will.i.am? Freddie Herzog
4 News
18th March 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick
Editors – Helen Crane, Glen Moutrie, Anna Hughes & James Brilliant
We asked 150 students 'What do you use the Guild for?'
17%
Nights out
36%
Food and Drink
9%
'The old Guild was better as it wasn't as pretentious and upmarket.'
'It's nice to know the Guild is there if we need anything.'
'I think it's useful that everything is under one roof – it's a good security blanket.'
Shopping
Dora Meredith and David Eastwood go head to head Freddie Herzog Assistant News Editor
Guild President Dora Meredith and Vice Chancellor David Eastwood went head to head with a student audience in a Question Time style debate in the Guild Council Chambers this week. One of the major focuses of the debate was improving access to university for students from poor socio-economic backgrounds and increasing employability, especially in a strained jobs market. Eastwood believes that building on what the university knows and what it does well already is key to improving access but accepts that there is a lot more Birmingham can do. He wants to improve the Access to Birmingham scheme by increasing its scope to 5% of all applicants rather than the current 4%, and also wants to put in place a tiered system of university scholarships in three brackets of household income stretching from £16,000 and below to a maximum of £42,000. Eastwood argued that Birmingham graduates do comparatively well in the jobs market, especially with £3.5 million being invested in employability programs in the next three years, such as working with alumni to provide more internships.
Dora Meredith stated that employability was one of her main election campaigns and that the Guild can play a part in promoting graduate's skills and confidence and could especially help through a better jobs agency on campus. She said that Birmingham does a lot already but 'enough is not being done on this front and it needs to be improved.' However, while she believes employability is important, Meredith also stated that 'education can't be undermined for education's sake' and that university choices should not be based on levels of employability alone. One of the most heated moments of the debate was when a member of the audience asked the Vice Chancellor why he has taken an alleged pay rise, with a response of gasps from the audience. Eastwood firmly stated: 'I have not taken a pay rise this year' and that he only took half of the bonus that he was offered. Meredith cut the rising tension in the room by saying that we should value the work that those who work in education do and that it is right that some people are paid large amounts. Eastwood backed this up by highlighting the social mobility that universities offer and that he benefited from, coming from a poor family of weavers.
He said: 'Education changes people. It changes their opportunities'. The final area that the debate centred on was the sustainability and environmental credentials of the university, especially why the university has not signed up to the 1010 scheme. Meredith emphasised that the Guild had recently won a gold
award in green impact but despite this it is difficult for the university to commit to more efficient heating and lighting systems because of old buildings. Eastwood agreed with Meredith but said that the university was committed to cutting carbon emissions by 20%, especially by installing efficient heating and
VC David Eastwood, Chair Robert Sassoon and Dora Meredith
lighting systems in refurbished buildings. Eastwood also pointed out that he signed up to the Vice Chancellor's declaration on reducing carbon emissions and that 'the university is strongly committed to this issue' by taking measures such as using space resources better.
Freddie Herzog
Question Time style debate discusses the Coalition now Edwina Moorhouse Reporter
In what proved to be an enlightening debate, five panellists came together to discuss the Coalition government ten months on in a Question Time style event held in Guild Council Chambers on Monday. The panel lists who spoke represented a variety of political persuasions and groups or institutions on campus. To the right of the Chair, Cory Hazlehurst, sat Leander Jones from Student Broad Left and Dan Cowdrill from Birmingham University Conservative Future, whilst to the left of the Chair was VPEA Rob Hunter, POLSIS lecturer Peter Kerr and Labour council candidate for Selly Oak, Brigid Jones. Audience members were asked to read their questions to the panel, who were given time to debate the topic before members of the audience were asked to give their input. In regards to the Coalition, questions were raised over higher education, the 'big society,' the alternative vote and 'green government,' however it was the opening debate on spending cuts that caused the most controversy. In response to the question of whether spending was 'too far,
too fast' Dan Cowdrill argued that the cuts were not vast or devastating but 'challenging' and necessary to counteract the structural deficit. He later added that the issue of debt was not as important as the deficit, which he said was 'unnerving the financial market.' In response to Mr Cowdrill, Leander Jones made a historic reference to the economic situation in 1945 and how the Government managed to implement the welfare state and subsequent programs regardless. Meanwhile, Rob Hunter brought the issue back to the University discussing the impact of 28 per cent cuts to councils to the local community, which students are part of. Peter Kerr gave much to
the debate, speaking about the cuts damaging the economy and most vulnerable groups, whilst 'pricing everything in economic terms' and not value to society. There was much division in the panel and audience over the 'big society' and whether it was beneficial. Professor Kerr and Brigid Jones unanimously agreed it was a 'big con' and an example of the Government 'offloading its responsibility to govern' by 'trying not to manage society's problems.' It was Mr Hunter's comment that the 'big society' was patronising that provoked a sharp riposte from an audience member who argued that it was patronising 'to suggest our whole life needs micromanaging,' although Mr Hunter used the man's point against him to re-iterate his concern that it was only
something possible in affluent areas. Mr Cowdrill himself admitted there were some problems when it comes to put the 'big society' in practice but said that the idea of civil society doing more is commendable. Tension also peaked when one student submitted to the panel the following question: 'Will £9,000 fees lead to the privatisation of universities?' Whilst Mr Hunter was unsure as to whether it would lead to privatisation he did talk about inherent assoc i a t i o n between cuts to higher education and tuition fee rises, which agreed with Mr Jones' point t h a t there
was 'an undervaluing of education [..] not everything has to make a profit.' Mr Cowdrill's firm 'I hope so' in response to the question that provoked the loudest exclamations from the audience when he said he believed that the system would benefit from competitive rates and subsequent improvement in quality. 'To a round of applause one student articulated that this was 'market zealism.' The discussion was positively received by students who w e r e encouraged to 'continue the debate' in Joe's after the talk had to be cut short at 7pm.
Redbrick
25%
Edwina Moorhouse and Freddie Herzog
Workspace/computers
'Student Development is really helpful – I wouldn't be able to survive without it!'
'Sometimes the internet connection is slow but there is always one free.'
Birmingham fails to reach top 100 in academic league table Reporter
Last week, The Times Higher Education supplement published a league table based on university reputation and the way in which academic institutions are perceived, of which the University of Birmingham failed to feature. This news comes despite Birmingham being a member of the Russell Group of research universities and also a founding member of the Universitas 21, an international network of 21 universities across 12 countries. The table was formulated from a survey of 13,000 academics from around the world and confirmed the dominant status of US universities. Overall, UK universities were outdone by their American counterparts, with the highest ranked British institution being Cambridge, coming in third behind both Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The only other UK University to rank in the top ten was Oxford, whilst seven other US universities, for example Yale and Princeton filled out the rest of the top ten rankings. In recent weeks the reputation of universities has been covered
6%
7%
Societies
Tom Byrne
News 5
18th March 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Editors – Helen Crane, Glen Moutrie, Anna Hughes & James Brilliant
widely in the media, highlighting that reputation is a valuable albeit fragile commodity. Last week saw the director of the London School of Economics, Sir Howard Davies, stepping down from his position, believing that the reputation of the LSE had been damaged due to their links to Gaddafi’s regime in Libya. Speaking to BBC News, professor of higher education at the University of Melbourne, Simon Marginson, argued that word-ofmouth qualities such as reputation have significant economic values
for universities. He further argued that for students applying to university, the reputation of the institution is a part of the appeal. Jamie Taylor, a first year Philosophy student said: 'I am surprised at the failure of our university to make the top 100 considering the University of Birmingham is a part of the Russell Group and a founding member of Universitas 21. I did apply partly due to the university's esteemed reputation and am therefore slightly disheartened about not making it into the rankings.'
Harvard University, number one in the table
maita2008 on flickr
Do not use the Guild
'The facilities seem to be focused around students living around campus and not really for international students'
Prospects down for Forensics students Freddie Herzog Assistant News Editor
Many students studying Forensic Sciences are now facing career turmoil after the government owned Forensic Science Service (FSS) – where many students had hoped to work – was axed as part of the Coalition government’s cuts this year. According to the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) 8,685 undergraduates and postgraduates studied on more than 100 forensic and archaeological science courses last year, an increase of 12 per cent from 2005. Over the last ten years, the popularity of TV programmes such as CSI, Bones and Silent Witness have been suggested as one reason for the popularity of the subject. One of the largest departments in the country for forensics is located at Portsmouth University, which saw a 13 per cent increase in forensics students this year. Paul Smith, a senior lecturer at Portsmouth's Institute of Criminal Justice Studies said: 'It's important to teach transferable skills that give students more employment opportunities across a range of careers.'
However even before the FSS was earmarked for closure, there was already a mismatch in supply and demand. The FSS employed 1,600 people – not all of them scientists – while LGC Forensics, Britain's largest private provider, employs 500 people. But with more than 8,500 forensics students in the UK, it's little surprise that the FSS website warns applicants that its advertised jobs see responses from 1,000 applicants.
12
Percentage increase in forensics students since 2005
Students studying forensics degrees, however, have expressed their concern at the axing of the FSS and the effect that this will have on their future careers. Matthew Perryman, 21, a third-year forensics science student at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge, said: 'As things stand, I'm more worried. I'll probably have to study further, do a masters and get more lab-based experience before I get a job.'
Unis to lose $1.6bn KPMG pays for accountancy due to new visa rules degrees at Birmingham Kerrina Gray Reporter
British universities are set to face serious financial losses if the government continue with proposals to make it harder for international students to come to university in the UK. The government wishes to tackle illegal immigration by reducing the amount of student visas they provide each year, and they want to make it a requirement that potential students have a strong
'...the Government is embarking unwisely on a set of restrictions that would severely restrict our ability to attract talented overseas students to our University.'
Dr. Edward Harcourt, Director of International Relations
level of English language skills. However many universities have expressed concern that by reducing the number of international students to UK universities, they will be set to lose approximately $1.6billion from tuition fee income. At a time when universities are facing huge government cuts, this could have a considerable impact on the education of future students. Plans are also underway to reduce the number of pre-degree international students. Currently 40 per cent of international students arrive in the UK through a pre-university pathway course, and it is estimated that 70 per cent of these students would be turned away due to the language requirement change. Dr. Edward Harcourt, Director of International Relations said: 'In order to satisfy an ill-chosen net migration figure, the government is embarking unwisely on a set of restrictions that would severely restrict our ability to attract talented overseas students to our University. Birmingham has joined other leading British universities in calling on the government to reconsider its proposed immigration restrictions on international students.'
Ryan Jones Reporter
Global accountancy firm KPMG has announced it is to extend its school leavers' scheme to the University of Birmingham. The scheme, which is already set to be offered to students at the Universities of Exeter and Durham, will see prospective students have both their tuition fees and accommodation costs funded by KPMG. They will also receive an annual salary of approximately £20,000. As part of the six year BSc honours degree programme, the students will also undertake work experience at KPMG and receive a professional accountancy qualification. The University of Birmingham has currently only reached an agreement in principle with KPMG, but if the partnership does proceed the scheme is set to start at the beginning of the 2012 academic year. However, there will only be around fifty places for the scheme at the university, and given the current economic climate, together with the ever-looming increase in tuition fees, competition is expected to be fierce. KPMG have
said that over 5,000 young people have already registered for the scheme. It is hoped that considering finance is one of the greatest areas of concern for undergraduates, prospective accountancy students who would previously have shied away from higher education may be encouraged to apply. First Year Physics student Dan Bulmer-Bird said: ‘the accountancy firm paying for the course and the accommodation may offer a route for those who may otherwise not consider university. The increasing costs of university are becoming an even more important consideration.’ In response to the extension of the scheme, the Head of the Department of Accounting and Finance at the Birmingham Business School, Professor Andrew Lymer, said that the KPMG programme ‘is a unique offering in this field in the UK and we are therefore confident it will enable us to continue to attract the very best students to Birmingham’. Oliver Tant, Head of Audit at KPMG, said ‘At a time when the affordability of higher education is uppermost in many people’s minds, this scheme clearly offers an alternative route that should
see students emerge not only with first class qualifications but also a positive bank balance.’ However, there is an argument that such a scheme would prove too constrictive and leave graduates with a narrow base of knowledge. However, for those whom are resolute on pursuing accountancy as a career path, it is hard to imagine a more attractable path into that profession.
University of Birmingham flickr
6
18th March 2011
redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick
Comment & Features Editorial Japan Disaster
Amanda Callaghan Comment and Features Editor
The world was once more reduced to reverential silence last Friday as images from Japan were streamed into our homes. We sat transfixed, consuming the horror, contemplating the unimaginable pain and suffering of so many thousands of individuals. As is typical of modern media culture, the emphasis was on lightning quick speed and the emotional impact of the coverage. In real time the extent of the catastrophe unfurled; 'breaking news' was barely digested as yet more 'breaking news' emerged. Home videos of the shattering quake appeared within minutes on YouTube and footage of the relentless surge of water was released, revealing the impact of the tsunami to open-mouthed viewers. Social network sites sprung into compassionate frenzy as soon as the disaster began, reacting in a flash to what was happening and offering condolences to the victims. Effectively, a virtual 'hand on the shoulder' was offered to a country so desperately vulnerable and at the mercy of the natural elements. More than this, governments and people across the globe began to pledge aid to the Japanese, evidence of the media's role in inspiring empathy to alleviate suffering where it is found. As the human cost of the disaster emerges and the people of Japan try to rebuild their shattered coastlines perhaps the media has a responsibility to reflect upon its reporting style of the catastrophe thus far. Alongside this, the radiation leaks in Fukushima and the risks posed to the surrounding area should be reported with proportionality – avoiding the easy pitfall of scare mongering and speculation as apocalyptic-style rhetoric is bounded about. Reflection and silence is respectful. A time to pause and grieve for those who have been lost before the next inevitable disaster strikes is necessary. At what point is the line crossed whereby videos and photographs become nothing more than voyeuristic? Is accurate and balanced coverage necessarily synonymous with emotive broadcasting? These are questions that need to be asked as media grows ever more visual. Does bringing more acute and powerful images of suffering encourage a higher proportion of international aid? Or, does the Hollywood-style destruction of homes and lives before our eyes whilst hearing the stomach churning wails of the tsunami warnings normalize the abnormal? Can we only sympathise with other individuals when we are able to witness first hand their homes and lives being destroyed beyond recognition? When disaster strikes areas where cameras and the internet are not as ubiquitous does the media ignore those in need of help? These questions have no single correct answer but this makes them no less pertinent in the wake of such tragedy. The media has a responsibility to reflect upon its coverage of all events, particularly ones such as this.
After the campaign, the friction within Post Guild Elections, Joe Jervis reflects on the Presidential race and potential troubles within the new team
Smiles all round? Some of next year's Guild Officer team, from left to right: Jennifer Kirk, Leander Jones, Bibi Shaheen Noorie Karimbocus, Edd Bauer, Mikayla Jones, Zuki Majuqwana, Mark Harrop, Tim Smith & Hugo Sumner
L
ast Saturday saw the election of Mark Harrop as the new President of the University of Birmingham Guild of Students. His victory over Rachel Twumasi by a margin of 591 votes was less than surprising given that Harrop's campaign was by far the more dynamic and inspiring. Both on and off campus the enthusiastically enacted Harry Potter theme outshone 'Super-Rae' whilst Harrop himself was a recognisable figure. Most importantly, Harrop's manifesto was both impressive in content and clearly explained. His desire to bridge the gap between the Guild and students is to be tackled by a push to introduce loyalty cards for Joe's Bar and mobile phone applications which give details of Guild activity. An additional draw has been the focus on library facilities. This included improved opening hours, more power outlets for laptops and cheaper printing credits for dissertation students. Furthermore, the politics and economics student has a strong record in leadership roles and involvement in University societies. His CV includes the Presidencies of both the Aitken Wing Residence Association and the European Politics, Society and Economics (EPSE) group as well as a role as a Guild Counsellor. While Twumasi also had a strong mandate, a lack of communication left students questioning what it was that she stood for and therefore her electability. Fellow members of the electorate felt that the height of her campaign amounted to a single Facebook event others were unfortunate enough not to receive an invitation. To politicised voters, a concern regarding Harrop's election may be his previous involvement as Publicity Officer in the Birmingham University Conservative Future (BUCF). The pro-cuts agenda of the Conservatives appears at odds
with the current interests of university students given the eighty per cent reduction from the Government's budget for higher education. The absence of a pledge to fight cuts in his campaign manifesto fuelled such speculation but the newly elected President has given healthy assurances to Redbrick that the concerns of the student body are now – and always have been – his resounding priority. 'The cuts and fee rises meant that I distanced myself from the Conservative party post-General Election', Harrop told the paper. 'I can make this vow that, although I have voted Conservative in the past, I do not support the cuts that the Coalition Government are introducing and will fight against them with the rest of the Sabbatical team in order to achieve what is best for the 28,000 students we represent.' Harrop also emphasised that his decision to vote Conservative in the 2010 general election was due to 'foreign policy and environmental issues' and that he is dedicated to 'lobbying the University and Government.' However, his agenda was 'less about the negative of batten down the hatches' and
more about 'implementing policies which save students money and give them a better university experience.' Of course, it should be made clear that party politics is hardly prevalent in the Guild, nor is it necessarily influential on the average voter. Yet to some candidates the backing of certain University societies is an important source of support. Last year current Guild President Dora Meredith benefited significantly from the support of Birmingham University Labour Students (BULS), of which she was Chair in 2009, whilst Rob Hunter also ran a successful vicepresidential campaign backed by political societies. However, this year lackadaisical campaigning from the BULS contributed to losses for its respective candidates in every position. The President of the BUCF (Birmingham University Conservative Future) was inevitably pleased to see such a change and hoped that Harrop's tenure would see a 'more centralist' Guild rather than one of 'left-leaning persuasions.' There was, however, a notable exception to the trend. The elec-
tion of radical political activist Edd Bauer's as Vice President of Education was a common conversationstarter on election night. As an instigator of grass-roots movement Stop Fees and Cuts at Birmingham University, Bauer won a hard fought victory on farleft ideological grounds with a manifesto aimed at, amongst other things, 'human rights and an end to global injustice.' The controversial figure has had a tendency to split opinion and in hindsight this will have helped his election campaign. His success in mobilising his dedicated socialist following proved just enough to see off the challenge of James Wickett-Whyte whose campaign as the more pragmatic candidate fell just short. It will be interesting to see how Bauer works alongside the other Sabbatical Officers given his dislike for the current system and his uncompromising ethical approach. His performance as the Ethical and Environmental non-Sabb officer gave heed to worries that he has little time for pragmatic solutions. Negotiating with Bauer may be Harrop's biggest presidential challenge. Photos taken by Sven Richardson
S Y A D S S E N E R A W A D N I M
3 2 Y A D S WEDNE TH H C R A M 5 2 FRIDAY ys’ RD
reness Da a w A d in ‘M g in st o h e The Guild will b ility & Mental b a is (D SA M A D h it w in partnership a number e b ill w re e Th ). n o ti ia Health Assoc g place n ki ta s p o sh rk o w d n a of activities cused o ‘f ’, d in m y p p a ‘h a focusing on mind’. mind’, and ‘informed Wednesday 23rd March
Thursday 24th March
Chill Out Room 11am-3pm @ Cadbury Room, Chaplaincy. Featuring cut price beauty therapies such as nail treatments, reflexology and massage, come along and relax, treat yourself. Learn about eating disorders and body issues with the Women’s Association, meet the mentors or post a secret piece of artwork on the Post Secret board.
Tune into Big Talk with Chris and John on BurnFM 9-11am @ burnfm.com We will be discussing Mind Awareness Week and how promoting a happy mind can help us all.
Relaxation workshop with Well Naturally 12.15pm & 1.15pm @ Winterbourne House, Botanical Gardens. Learn new relaxing techniques set to music in a calming environment and explore what the gardens have to offer. Tickets £3. God’s Kitchen - free lunch! 1.10pm @ Oasis Lounge, Chaplaincy. “Is stress a mental illness?” 3-5pm @ venue tbc. Come and debate mental health issues with the Debating Society and bust some mental illness myths. No previous debating experience required. Premiere of GTV’s documentary on depression 7pm @ Worship Room, Chaplaincy. Produced by and starring UoB students, come and watch it, followed by tea and biscuits in the Oasis Lounge, where you can also try some meditation or visualisation with Sister Anna O’Connor.
Birmingham & Solihull Mental Health Trust present ‘Revolving Doors’ 11am-12pm @ Rosa Parkes Room, Guild of students. A patient produced a film about bipolar disorder. Birmingham & Solihull Mental Health Trust’s drama group 12-2pm, Rosa Parkes Room, Guild of Students. A show portraying issues surrounding mental health. Followed by 2-3pm discussion group led by BSMHT. Exam Stress Workshop 3-4pm @ Elms Road. Learn how to bust exam nerves and stay on top of work! Relaxation workshop 4-5pm @ Elms Road. Take an hour out to combat your stresses. LGBTQ interactive Q-chat 5pm @ Elms Road. Showcasing how new technology can be used to focus your mind.
Insatiable Moon 7pm @ Beorma Bar, Guild of Students. A new blockbuster about a psychiatric patient.
Friday 25th March Nail art available by a qualified technician 10am-12 noon, 3 Elms Road. £5 per student. Food and mood; exploring the relationship 11am-12noon, 3 Elms Road. Relaxation workshop 12-1pm, 3 Elms Road. Exam Stress Workshop 1-2pm, 3 Elms Road Learn how to bust exam nerves and stay on top of work! Particularly suitable for those on the autistic spectrum. Health and Stress triggers; managing the impact. 3-4pm, 3 Elms Road. Please book a place on the 3 Elms Road workshops in advance! Go to see them in person or visit www.as.bham. ac.uk/studentlife/counselling/ and click on ‘Workshops’ on the menu.
www.guildofstudents.com/mad
8 Comment & Features
18th March 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
It's time to take a stand Rob Hunter
VP Education and Access
People often don't support protests because 'it won't make any difference' or because 'it doesn't affect me'. When Parliament voted to triple tuition fees last December, these views seemed vindicated and the 'it makes no difference' brigade was already getting smug, confident in their assertion that demonstrations don't change anything. So when the Guild of Students began promoting the NUS backed March for The Alternative, the usual questions about the value of such campaigning surfaced. Surely it won't change anything? Surely it will prove nothing? If recent student demonstrations proved anything, they proved that young people are not the apathetic and self obsessed individuals that the media likes to portray us as being. They proved that students are engaged with politics and the important issues that affect our society. Politicians can no longer turn around to student representatives and dismiss what they say
because 'students aren't interested in politics'. Whilst students still don't vote in as high numbers as other sections of society, we have spoken with our feet and proved that we do have a voice and we are not afraid to use it. It's simply wrong to suggest that demonstrations and campaigning have had no impact on government policy. Yes, the Government voted to triple fees, but do you not remember how with every day that passed the Government's majority on this issue became shakier and shakier as more and more MPs bowed to pressure? More importantly, the Government was forced to bring in a number of concessions around access and payment thresholds which will have a huge positive impact on a great number of students. Never again will new graduates struggling to make ends meet on low incomes have to start paying back their student loan. For the first time ever, part-time students will also be brought into the subsidised loan system, a decision which will create opportunities where they
never existed before, for people who for whatever reason are only able to study part time. The March for the Alternative, however, is not just another student protest. This time students and young people will be joined by public sector workers from all walks of life, whose vital jobs are at risk due to destructive and unnecessary cuts. Teachers, council workers, carers, healthcare professionals and many more will be standing shoulder to shoulder with young people who, with youth unemployment already at a staggering 20 per cent, are already bearing the brunt of spending cuts. Together we can pressure the Government into thinking again. So do you want to make a stand against the devastating cuts that will affect us all? If so come and join hundreds of thousands of people on the 26th March on the biggest demonstration since the Iraq war. Get your tickets for Guild coaches down to London for just £5 from Student Voice. Email studentvoice@guild.bham.ac.uk for more information.
Where is my mind?
Raising awareness for the 25 per cent of the population who suffer from mental health problems
Sophie Bailey
Disabled Students' Officer
What do Stephen Fry, Ruby Wax and Patsy Palmer have in common? They're all BBC TV personalities. They all also suffer from mental health problems, along with 25% of the population. This is a shocking statistic and means that, in all likelihood, we all know somebody affected. Mental health issues have a varying impact on different people. Problems often differ according to gender; for example, according to the NHS, women are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depres-
sion, while men are more likely to have an addiction to an illegal substance or have a personality disorder. One in every 100 has a severe mental health condition such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Scarily, these statistics are only based on those who have sought help for their mental health problems – in real terms, the figures could be even higher. Some people may hide it better than others and some people may even have their mental health issues under control. You can watch Stephen Fry on QI without any hint of any disturbance in his mental health. Others don't find it quite so easy and life evolves into a constant struggle from waking up until going to sleep. They become isolated, and feel discriminated against in all walks of life, whether at work, during study, and whilst socialising. Without physical signs of mental health, people looking from the outside can find it hard to understand what it's like to suffer from a mental health issue. Some are even sceptical as to the existence of mental health problems – after all, we all have bad days. How does this suddenly morph into a medical diagnosis? Many patients suffer trying to deal with the acceptance of it, but suffice it to say that mental health issues can, and often do, affect every aspect of your
life – and for far longer than a day or two. And that's just the view of somebody who has watched close friends with mental health problems. Ask somebody who suffers themselves and they'll tell you in more detail. Remember, one in four. A bit more positivity though, mental health issues do not condemn you to a lifetime of medicines and dark days. Mental wellbeing can be promoted in different ways, from relaxation sessions and meditation, to arts and crafts, holistic therapies and study sessions. Over the next week, the Guild will be promoting Mind Awareness Days, a programme of Happy, Informed and Focused Mind events. Everyone is welcome to join in, whether you define as having a mental illness or not, to help us break down the stigmas surrounding mental health and learn how to promote a happy mind and mental wellbeing across the University community.
Check out www.guildofstudents.com/ mad for the full programme! Mind Awareness Days, 2325th March, across campus: how's your mind today?
Redbrick
Editors – Rosa McMahon, Seb Mann, Amanda Callaghan & Ali Hendy
A royal PR disaster Are the Windsors worth the tender on which they're printed?
Eleanor Smallwood Commentator
In days gone by, they would outwit both conspirators and kings, bring wars to an end, implement a personal political agenda and (occasionally) hold the country to ransom, quite literally. Looking back just a century the sun wouldn't set on their power and patronage. Today, we may only see mere shadows of the power responsibility and influence the Royals once had, but nevertheless their position as the face of Britain abroad remains steadfast. Unfortunately however, the responsibility that this brings of upholding our reputation does not seem apparent to the minor Royals, who steer a dizzying course from one PR disaster to another as their somewhat contrived career paths proceed. The latest PR car crash involves the Duke of York, Representative for International Trade and Investment who has blundered into the media spotlight, pulling with him an array of unsavoury friends and their associated baggage. The minor Royals' record for gaffes makes a somewhat uncomfortable study; from Nazi costumes to dealing with lobbyists to shameless expenses: what we are looking at here are a group of people who seem far from politically savvy. Barbed comments from allies abroad suggest that diplomats have been a little riled at times. Tatiana Gfoella has previously described the Duke's diplomatic decisions as 'idiocy', and this was back in November before the plot thickened. Even diplomats in the Middle East seem to be looking for a better, more elegant way to do business. Do we really have to rely on the last vestiges of Nineteenth Century patronage to do our negotiating? Even firmly-rooted Royalists cannot ignore numbers and figures. The PR budget of the family alone comes to a comfy half-a-million; after weeks of relentless criticism, the fact that Andrew has still not resigned of his own accord would suggest that this substantial funding has not been enough to instil in him an understanding of basic diplomacy. The new Sovereign Support Grant will amount to around £30 million when it starts in 2013; its predecessor, the Civil List and the expenses that go with it add up to quite a lot more. This may not be a large proportion of tax take as
a whole, but it is enough to force us to take notice; where money is tight, and the Government is making swingeing cuts, surely the country cannot afford to dole out for the blunders of some of our most highprofile representatives? The issue of the Royal Family's influence over, and demand upon, public money and policy seems to be something which has not been addressed with the bluntness it needs. It is said that Prince Andrew's role is 'voluntary', suggesting stepping down is a decision for him alone. Though in some ways this is true, and he could make the decision to go, the strings that allow him to stay in place are held by our elected politicians. Irrespective of the complexion of the Gov-
$450 million Estimated net worth of Queen Elizabeth II according to Forbes magazine ernment of the day, the role of a royal representative still seems to be sacrosanct, and despite some wavering from Uncle Vince during the past week, ministers appear to have rallied back to the flag to defend Air Miles Andy. This deprives the public of a democratic right; where we are paying for someone's position (and in this case lavish lifestyle), we reserve the right to decide whether they represent us or not. An argument can, of course, be sustained that the Royal Family still have an important role to play in Twenty First Century Britain. They promote tourism and are an important part of our heritage. But representation contributes to a National image, and reputation affects perceptions at home and abroad. Perhaps when you are queuing to buy your commemorative tea towel next month, you should contemplate exactly what that perception might be – and whether the Duke of York and the younger generation of the House of Windsor are really the best people to portray UK PLC worldwide.
Redbrick
Editors – Rosa McMahon, Seb Mann, Amanda Callaghan & Ali Hendy
Comment & Features 9
18th March 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Oil and Britain: an ill-fated relationship? Oliver MacArthur reflects on Britain's oil dependency and how political troubles in the Middle East might affect the UK consumer The continuing political turmoil within the Middle East has destabilised the supply of oil and threatens fragile Western economies with recession and rising prices. Following the battle for Ras Lanuf, an important Libyan refinery, coupled with unrest within Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, oil prices are increasing rapidly. As a result, petrol prices in Britain have risen towards an eye-watering £6 a gallon, or 132 pence a litre. In this era of austerity, motoring lobbies already smell blood and are considering industrial action against the Government. Needless to say, rising oil prices represent a tremendous squeeze on the embattled UK consumer. In the modern world, oil plays an intrinsic part of the production process and our everyday lives. Raising oil prices raises almost all other prices. In the context of low interest rates and rising commodity prices, the inflationary pressure is rising. Once again, the spectre of high inflation haunts Britain. Following poor GDP growth numbers, this could spark the return of 'stagflation'. The problem of stagflation is acute and highly difficult to solve, measures to spark growth such as the reduction of interest rates indirectly serve to increase inflation as the money supply expands. During times of 'stagflation', the volatile macroeconomic climate undermines investment for the future. It appears that investors are already spooked, inflationary concerns have prompted gold prices, the safest investment of all, to rise towards a startling $1,415.45 an ounce. In the 1970s, oil shocks undermined UK growth and contributed towards the UK's embarrassing need for International Monetary Fund (IMF) loans. Recently, the coalition's Energy Secretary Chris
Freddie Herzog Huhne illustrated the Government's concern surrounding our dependency on oil, 'If the oil price doubled, as from $80 last year to $160 this year, it could lead to a cumulative loss of GDP of around £45bn over two years.' Inflation is disastrous for macroeconomic stability and future investment. Loan agreements are formulated on the prediction of future inflation rates. However, if the inflation rate is highly unpredictable, the bank's incentive to lend is reduced. Investment is seen as high-risk under inflationary uncertainty. Inflation favours the borrower as they pay back in relatively cheaper pounds. Following the recent global financial crisis, many financial institutions are still recovering and demand higher rates of interest for loans. The inflationary pressures, coupled with already conservative lending strategies, reduce the UK's future prospects for economic
Rising oil prices represent a tremendous squeeze on the embattled UK consumer. Once again, the spectre of high inflation haunts Britain. growth. Poorer economic growth equates to rising unemployment. With an unprecedented number of graduates in the job market, reduced economic activity spells disaster for students suffering from rising youth unemployment. In the short term, despite pos-
turing to reverse the fuel rate rise outlined in the pre-budget report, George Osborne must actively reduce the fuel rate altogether. Rising fuel prices will discourage travel and undermine growth. Regardless of the environmental controversy surrounding climate change, the economic argument to reduce our dependency for oil is manifest. Western economies are merely prisoners to the mercy of OPEC, a risk-laden and unsustainable option. In the longer term, the West should abandon its addiction to oil. Rising prices of scare natural commodities drives mercantilism and imperialistic tendencies, in this respect, a renewed commitment to sustainability is essential to secure our collective future. Chris Huhne is right, 'This is not just far-off speculation: it is a threat here and now.' At $120 a barrel and rising, a potent dose of cold turkey is required.
Tabloid journalism in turmoil Sam Langtree Deputy Editor
Two weeks ago Richard Peppiatt, a journalist for the Daily Star, sick and disillusioned with the stories the tabloid had been producing resigned in spectacular fashion. Releasing a long open letter to Star boss, Richard Desmond, Peppiatt attacked the entire newspaper mercilessly with line such as 'I suspect you see a perfect circle. I see a downward spiral. I see a cascade of sh*t pirouetting from your penthouse office, caking each layer of management, splattering all in between' and 'if you can't see that words matter, you should go back to running porn magazines.' The letter goes on to accuse the Daily Star of making up many of its gossip stories and Peppiatt himself even admits to making up sensationalist pieces about Kelly Brook, Michael Jackson, Matt Lucas and Jordan. Peppiatt now seems set for an interesting career, it being revealed last week in the Guardian that he has been writing a script for a sitcom about hack journalists based upon his time in at the Daily
Star. Amongst this and reports of harassment which, it's been implied, have been stemming from the newsroom of the Star itself, Peppiatt seems set for a interesting career in journalism. What is interesting however is that a man capable of such a brilliantly virulent letter was sucked into writing fictions about celebrity personalities. Journalism today, still seen as a shrinking sector, remains a hugely desirable career and this resignation has perhaps revealed how many young and talented writers are struggling on Fleet Street, trying to desperately to gain recognition or even notoriety. With such talent and competition squeezed into such a small industry, are young writers willing to sacrifice their credentials in order to earn money with poor writing and even poorer content? As a society Redbrick has over 300 members, the majority of whom are aspiring journalists. How many of these would be willing to 'make it' and end up writing for a tabloid newspaper – easy journalism for quick cash injections.
It's hard to say what's more disheartening about this situation, the implication that tabloid journalism has a complete absence of credentials, or that the writers behind such brainless articles are in fact talented budding journalists, lobotomizing their literary talents in order to appease their editors and the public. Snobby though it may seem, the Daily Star is without doubt a less desired location of work when
compared to broadsheet newspapers like the Guardian, the Times and the Independent and it is curious how so many people have found their way there. Political alignment also appears to have little influence in the decision to work there and that is potentially the most worrying revelation of this letter, journalists with seemingly conservative stances could in fact be liberals desperate to be paid in order to write.
Richard Desmond, Daily Star Editor
How do you solve a problem like... Facebook by Laura Megatli
Ever find yourself going online to check your email or renew your library books and yet somehow managing to spend hours upon hours on Facebook, looking at a friend of a friend's profile pictures or playing robot unicorn attack? I pride myself on my procrastinating skills and have spent most of my education refining them. However, lately I've found that with the assistance of Facebook, procrastinating has become far too easy. So I have decided to cut the cord and from now 'til Easter Sunday I am officially divorcing Facebook from my life for lent. Don't get me wrong, I don't hate Facebook, quite the opposite to be honest. I spend so much time on it I now consider poking a friend a suitable way of saying 'hi'. But you know your social life has taken a turn for the worse when you can't hold a conversation without referencing something you saw on Facebook.
The plan is that without Facebook I can focus all my stalker energies on something more productive like reading, essays or catching up on Gossip Girl and Waterloo Road. As I'm writing this I'm on Day Two of my Facebook detox. The phone application has been logged out of and hidden in the depths of some folder, the laptop now blocks the website and already my friends have started betting how long I'll last. Sadly none of them seem to have any faith in my ability to avoid the temptation and the longest they reckon I'll last is nine days. Already the withdrawal symptoms are rearing their ugly heads; I keep checking my phone for notifications and whenever I witness something even remotely funny I find myself composing witty statuses in my head. When Googling 'Facebook withdrawal', I found that it is considered a real life-threatening illness, according to Urban Dictionary. The definition: 'The process of separating a Facebook whore from his or her computer for an extended amount of time. The process is life-threatening and can result in extreme mood swings.' Some cases even involve individuals trying to use MySpace as an alternative but giving up when realising they can't click on the photo to view the next one. Looks like I'm in for the longest 40 days of my social life. So if you see a girl walking around campus mumbling statuses under her breath, please have pity and handle with care.
Redbrick
Editors – Rosa McMahon, Seb Mann, Amanda Callaghan & Ali Hendy
Comment & Features 10
18th March 2011
www.redbrickonline.co.uk
Spotlight on Libya controversy:
Gaddafi family hypocrisy knows no bounds Why are dictators sending their children to be educated in Western liberal democracies? Owen Earwicker
Saif al-Islam's education
Commentator
The coup is over. You have established yourself as the despotic ruler of an impoverished nation, so what’s next? Send your son to a British university of course! The recent scandalous liaisons between the Gaddafi family and the London School of Economics raises the question, if we accept the sons of tyrants into our educational institutions what will we actually teach them? What benefits do they take from the ‘highly valued’ Western education? As a nation we have taken pride in our long standing tradition of education. Think of the world class establishments our nation has built: Oxford, Cambridge... Birmingham. But not only do we take pride in our devotion to educating the world, we are supposedly committed to democratising it. We even twice went to war over it. Educating the son of a dictator in the virtues and wonders of Western-style democracy must be considerably easier than educating all the peoples of Iraq and Afghanistan. Saif al-Islam, son of Colonel Gaddafi, received his doctorate from the LSE in 2008, which he had titled ‘The Role of Civil Society
BSc in Engineering Science from Tripoli's Al Fateh University and MBA from Vienna's IMADEC University In 2008 awarded a doctorate from LSE An investigation by Channel 4 revealed 6% of his 93,000 thesis had been plagiarized from other sources. Saif al-Islam, son of Colonel Gaddafi in the Democratisation of Global Governance Institutions.’ In his 428 page thesis Saif criticised undemocratic governments that are ‘authoritarian, abusive and unrepresentative.’ Following the attack on the city of Brega during which air raids were carried out on rebels by Colonel Gaddafi’s forces,
Saif Gaddafi told Sky News that ‘the bombs [were] just to frighten them.’ Hypocrisy does not seem a big enough word. He spoke out against abusive governments in his thesis, and then justified an air raid on his own people. It’s interesting to see that a British education had absolutely no effect on him.
Professor David Held advised Saif when he was writing his thesis. He watched as his former student gave a speech scorning the protestors in shock, commenting to The Guardian that ‘the man giving that speech wasn't the Saif I had got to know well over those years. The Saif I knew will be in turmoil over the beliefs he had to betray in
order to demonstrate his support to his father.’ The beliefs he held, a liberal democracy inspired by Britain and America, were pushed aside for the will of a madman. I wonder, at what point will Saif realise he made the wrong choice? After he mocked the protestors calling for the reform he once academically championed? When he justified bombing his own people? I do not doubt that choosing between your father and your deeply held ideals is an excruciatingly difficult choice to make. But the Libyan people are dying at the hands of his father, and although the media attention has lessened somewhat, it is still happening. There is a real reason the children of rulers are sent to study in our country. It is undeniable that we have some of the best institutions both in terms of prestige and academic achievement. The hypocrisy of Saif Gaddafi tarnishes this hard earned reputation, and in an ideal world the LSE would have the power to revoke his PhD on the basis that he did not mean a single one of the 93,000 words he wrote. In my mind, Saif has certainly made the wrong choice; my reasoning is simply morality. But then again, I’m only a product of the British educational system.
Weighing up the benefits of military action in Libya Dave Rudge Commentator
The desire to relieve the suffering of others is a natural human reaction. It is impossible for any feeling person to hear of innocent Libyans being slaughtered, to see their forlorn, tortured faces on the news and not sympathize wholeheartedly with their cause. But would it be morally right for foreign powers to intervene militarily in their conflict? From a humanitarian point of view, there is a strong case for military intervention. Even for a dictator, Gaddafi is vile. He has no honour, no creed of any kind, save the ruthless consolidation of his power. As bad as he was, former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak offered concessions to his people when they rose up, and he never ordered the army to attack them. Gaddafi has no such qualms. As soon as the whisper of revolution was heard in Libya he began his murderous crackdown with the aid of foreign mercenaries – the International Federation for Human Rights estimates at least 3000 Libyans have died since the two-week old uprising began. With the rebels controlling the East of the country, and Gaddafi’s forces entrenched in Tripoli, this conflict could be very long and very bloody. Were the West to destroy Gaddafi’s airforce and launch aerial assaults on mercenary strongholds, this could tilt to odds in favour of the rebels, leading to Gaddafi’s removal. This would save a lot of un-
necessary deaths. There is certainly more of a case for going into Libya than there ever was for going into Iraq. When Coalition forces mobilized against Saddam Hussein in 2001, his country was comparatively stable. Abuses were taking place, of course, but nowhere on the scale with which they are currently being committed by the Libyan regime. Not long ago in the House
of Commons, David Cameron sounded the rallying cry for a nofly zone and condemned Gaddafi in the strongest possible terms. This tough, uncompromising talk makes for good soundbytes, but it was highly duplicitous. Only now that thousands of people are dying, do the UK and other Western governments seem to care about human rights abuses in Libya. Gaddafi seized power 42 years
ago in a coup d’etat. During recent years the West has sold guns to him, bought oil from him and legitimized him, when all the while he was denying his citizens the freedom of speech and executing anyone who opposed him. When these things could be swept under the carpet, he was our friend, and a crucial ally in the war against terror. Now his atrocities have been laid bare before the world, we call him a war criminal. Yet, little more than three weeks ago Cameron visited Egypt with a delegation of arms-dealers in tow. The hypocrisy is breathtaking. On Question Time two weeks ago David Starkey said ‘You get rid of our only decent aircraft carrier, and you remove half the Royal Air Force, and then you talk about imposing a no-fly zone. This isn’t joined up government; it is demented government.’ Politically, Starkey is absolutely right. We can scarce afford a military operation of this sort given the state of the public purse (not to mention the Iraq fiasco). Despite this, the alleviation of human suffering must take priority over political and economical interests. The embattled rebels have asked the West to intervene and I think we should aid them as we would aid any other ally in distress. A no-fly zone would be costly and would severely stretch our military capabilities, but the government insist it would be feasible. I say, let’s give the rebels their no-fly zone and give them a fighting chance of achieving their freedom.
Time is of the essence. There should be no let-up in the pressure we put on this regime.
- David Cameron
What is a no-fly zone? A no-fly zone is an area or territory over which no aircraft is permitted to fly. A no-fly zone over Libya is designed to mitigate Gaddafi's advantage over the uprisers In 1992 the UN security council implemented a no-fly zone over Bosnian
TUD
AM INGH
IT Y S S R E IV
AY...
S ENTS
UN
BIRM
h t 6 2 ay
d r u t Sa
h c r Ma
How will the government spending cuts affect you? With 28% cuts to local council budgets alone the government’s devastating spending cuts will undoubtedly affect you and your community. Hundreds of thousands of students and public sector workers will be in London to fight the cuts and spread the message that the government’s slashing of University funds and the scrapping of widening participation projects such as Aim Higher are inexcusable. This is a once in a generation opportunity to challenge the government’s destructive and avoidable cuts.
Will you join us? Guild coaches leave at 8am, on Saturday 26th March. Tickets cost £5 from Student Voice. Email: studentvoice@guild.bham.ac.uk Facebook: March for the Alternative Web: www.guildofstudents.com or www.marchforthealternative.org.uk
12 redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick
18th March 2011
Arts
Festival Special: all you need to know about the country's most provocative festival.
FIERCE DIRECTORS
Laura McDermott & Harun Morrison Fierce Festival has long been the enfant terrible of not only the Birmingham arts scene, but the national one. As a festival it is not so much about breaking boundaries but refusing to admit that they even exist. With highlights of this years festival ranging from live tattooing to sound installations meditating on religion, I arrived at Fierce HQ with aim of working how the spirit of Fierce (after a two year hiatus) was harnessed to produce this diversity. 'It's all about artists having a dialogue with Birmingham and its people' opines Laura McDermott, one half of the double act of festival directors that is completed by Harun Morrison. Two directors seem entirely necessary for a festival with as diverse aims and acts as Fierce, with one regularly adding an additional aim the other has forgotten. In this case Harun is quick to add, 'That its about flattening the hierarchy between funded, or too well funded arts and the smaller start up space. We will put a well known, established artist in a smaller space that is being run by an emerging curator. And put a unknown artist in a big venue. It makes it about the work and the space it sits in and not about that branding or that label.' Fierce is a festival that inspires, placing a focus on offering new art in new ways. 'People have described Fierce as being ambushed by art', recalls Laura, 'and to some extent that's true.' It is proudly independent, and although funded, the directors are adamant that finance comes after the art, not before. 'I always think that you should say I'm going to make this art. If you're going to give me funding great, but I will still do it.' Keeping true to the spirit of Fierce is a challenge, with both directors freely admitting that 'the personalities of the curators will always have an effect.' However, Fierce is still shocking, eye opening and above all fun. As Harun says,'We've still got the parties and Bacchanalian excess that made Fierce famous. We're rebooting a festival, being here is a triumph.' James Reevell Arts Editor
Bex Singleton
FRONTMAN Lending its artistic weight to this year's outstanding line up is the latest project to emerge from creative collaboration, Action Hero. The third part of what co-creator and performer Gemma Paintin refers to as 'an accidental trilogy' delving into the issues surrounding 'the iconography of masculinity,' Frontman promises to be intense, innovative, but above anything else, it promises to be loud. And this Paintin cannot stress enough: 'it will be very, very, very loud.' Describing the show as somewhere in between 'theatre, live art and some really weird backstreet gig, where you have that feeling you should know the band that's playing, but you can't quite put your finger on it,' Action Hero aren't exploiting this idea of being almost excessively loud as some form of marketing gimmick, they're earnestly experimenting with using sound to explore a new dimension to their body of work. The show is an inventive examination of pop culture. Focusing on 'these people that are presented to us as a kind of iconic figure. We wanted to explore what it means to be that person, and the influence they carry.' Using a synth, a tambourine and 'these crazy little boxes' the show grew out of an electric mix of 'a niggling idea' that Action Hero had been exploring for a while, and 'suddenly something just sparked' Importantly, for something incorporating Japanese noisecore, it is not as exclusive as you might imagine. Paintin advocates that actually it has the potential for a very broad appeal. It's here that this notion of sound becomes imperative; 'it can be this dominating force, like that feeling when you're at a gig and the noise is just so overwhelming and you can just feel it in your body.' With the performance taking place in the Rainbow Warehouse this physicality of sound has the promise to actually connect directly with the audience. Paintin draws a comparison to the role of a stuntman, doing whatever it takes to make the audience happy, even running the risk of a bleak self-destruction in the end. But they're doing all this with a refreshingly playful attitude. Unlike many of the self-congratulating frontmen that the show examines, they never profess that it is 'all about the music, man,' stating instead, 'we just wanted to create something that people hadn't seen before.' Lexie Wilson Arts Editor
What would Fierce do with a red brick Jam open a door that is usually closed'
Manuel Vason
THE IRREPRESSIBLES Alexander Blanchard The Irrepressibles' press release
for their part in the Fierce 2011 festival doesn't give much away; 'the Irrepressibles exist to influence, change and collaborate, conjuring landscapes of expressive abandon' it says. A description that doesn't give much away, one might think, and lead artist Jamie McDermott is equally reticent when it comes to giving any concrete description of genre – but this, perhaps, is entirely the point. Once you begin to narrowly define yourself and place yourself into a particular category or genre of music, you naturally lose your accessibility, your appeal, and you lose a potential audience who are put-off by this or that label. For musician-composer Jamie McDermott, the Irrepressibles – his labour of love – is about crossing these confines; 'I wanted to move the boundaries of classical and pop; current music is just about repeating the same thing over and over again; we're against this'. And this breaking down of confines encompasses every aspect of the performance; ' The musicians moving around may look different to some, but it's just the sound flowing through them – it's all about the sound'. Yet, in breaking down the boundaries between different genres of music, and giving his music something of a universal 'lay man' appeal, is there not the concern that Jamie is not so much expanding his appeal, more obliterating it? 'The Irrepressibles is a form of light entertainment,' he tells me, 'and light entertainment is a valid form of art, this is what we now consider pop; The Irrepressibles have an appeal there.' For Jamie, The Irrepressibles – which he began in 2003 after a move away from classical piano and a number of aborted attempts at forming a rock band – are something of a rebellion against the perceived 'over-intellectualisation' of the arts and an explicit attack on art that is 'academic'; 'I want to break down the prejudices in the arts, and also in classical music. Music shouldn't have to be understood intellectually, but at the same time that's not to pretend that the audience is stupid. The irrepressible is pop, but still has exploration and experimentation'. Yet, despite this element of exploration and experimentation, many have struggled to capture the essence of the Irrepressibles, to pin it down, to find out exactly which confines and borders are being crossed. For Jamie though, it's essence is best described as 'an organism of emotion.' Arts Editor
Human Salvage 26th March – 8pm AE Harris Building Live tattoo performance art, featuring Dominic Johnson. Striking, innovative and followed by the biggest and most Bacchalain party Brum. Fierce harks back to its notorious roots.
Front Man 24th March – 8pm Rainbow Warehouse Examining the nature of life as a front man, examined through the medium of Japanese noise rock. Taking place at the Rainbow Warehouse extreme noise, alongside revelation is guaranteed.
The Commentators' 24th March, 6pm – 6am Festival Hub/Online Put on by perennial favourites Stan's Cafe, Seventies style sport commentary on a live feed from Broad Street. Oh, and he's off clear down the road, they think its all over, it is now....because the police have got him.
Prayer 22nd – 27th March The Old Library South African artist James Webb has recorded different forms of prayer all over the city, in this challenging and revealing sound installation. A pause to ponder deeper questions.
Spit or Swallow 27th March – 11am Festival Hub It may be brunch, but it is brunch as you've never experienced it. Food artists Companis recreate a still life in real food for you to munch your way through. You'll be quite literally eating up culture.
For competition tickets, and online updates see redbrickpaper.co.uk
Cut Out And Keep Guide To Fierce – The Events not to be missed.
Redbrick
Arts 13
18th March 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Editors – James Reevell, Alexander Blanchard & Lexie Wilson
Previews
Die Fledermaus at Hippodrome
Clive Barda Jessica Bull Chief Critic
Strauss' operetta is sourced from, amongst other things, a French farce named La Reveillon, and it seems the farcical element was not to be lost in the Welsh National Opera's performance. Comic highlights included Desmond Barrit's
performance as the drunken prison warden and the character of Alfred 'A tenor'; the latter being instrumental in the send-ups of the work of Puccini and Verdi which actually resulted in one longing for these opera greats after three acts of dated and slightly crass operetta. Bringing traditional art forms
into the Twenty first Century can be challenging for producers and with this particular production little needed to be done to adapt such a performance. Which throws up the debate of whether traditional art and performance should be subject to experimentation or not. However, innovation lacked and if things were not experimented with as such then art and performance would not have progressed to the diverse existence it full fills today. A target audience should not be taken for granted in a sector that has recently suffered significant financial cuts and subsequently needs to be economical in the quality of its contributions to society. The performers were of the highest standard, as were the design elements. The problem lay in the outdated script, unfunny gags and unsuccessful attempts to ac-
knowledge the context of a present audience. If the performance had remained in the vacuum of its intended setting without attempted outreach (the most embarrassing being the reference to the 'Go Compare' adverts) then it may have maintained more artistic dignity and avoided the ineffective slapstick humour and pantomimeesque moments. Die Fledermaus is a comedy and arguably relies on the institutions and practices of its settings to an extent. However the irrelevance of its context suggests that it is pure entertainment and escapism; something that art is expected to provide-but should it provide solely this? Operetta is a light-hearted mode of performance rooted in a conservative past and the experience was neither entertaining nor inspiring.
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
The Crescent Theatre 19th-24th March £13
You Couldn't Make It Up at Bristol Pear Sam Langtree Deputy Editor
Satire, as evidenced by almost every comedy outing shown on BBC3 from the last decade, isn't exactly easy. In fact it is only when done meticulously and with great precision that it becomes extremely effective and funny. Director's Nicky Turner and David Gray should be commended for even attempting a satire with You Couldn't Make It Up. The topic of You Couldn't Make It Up? The English National Party, a thinly veiled allegory for you-know-who made up of nationalists and idiots (this play is eager to point out that the two are virtually inseparable) who suck in an educated and out of work middleclasser played by the charismatic
and eloquent Leo West who's character Michael is torn between maintaining an income and sacrificing his convictions. Set the uphill task of improving the party's image by leader George Britannia (Luke Shepherd), Michael begins the arduous and controversial task of toning down (or re-wording) the party's beliefs and convictions in order to give them a more mainstream appeal. The set was well constructed with a bar at the front and living area at the back allowing interchanging settings. This simple and effective movement from domestic and public spheres allowed the audience to witness varying aspects of the ENP member's beliefs. Written by David Gray, the dialogue between the characters was
Pitchfork Disney at Amos Room
Emily Priestnall Critic
True delicacy in performance is often a rarity in amateur shows but Article 19's weirdly wonderful production of The Pitchfork Disney brilliantly captured the surrealism of Philip Ridley's play. It is essentially the tale of a siblings Presley and Haley, who live alone and are wrapped up in a cyclic lifestyle of childhood fantasies and fears. Their mental instability is further amplified when they meet Cosmo Disney and Pitchfork Cavalier. The play is heavily constructed by monologues and repetition and initially the delivery seemed as if it would not vary greatly. This notion was quickly pushed aside by Patsy Ferran (Haley) and Joe White (Presley) who captivated
an unfairly sparse audience with every word. The dynamic between them was eerie, fast paced and provocative, and it was a brave yet excellent directorial decision to leave a film of ambiguity over these intricately built characters. Another similarly wise decision was the wonderful use of the set. Haley and Presley's home was portrayed as a cluttered world of floral prints and chocolate wrappers; a lot of attention to detail had gone into this production and it paid off. When the character of Pitchfork entered the stage there was a unanimous unsaid musing as to how his face would look; covered by a gruesome mask, the audience were told this mute character had a face that had made people scream and cry. However, when the moment of revelation came, though the face was gruesome, it has to be said that it was more odd than frightening. The role of Cosmo, played by Tom Williams, was brilliantly eccentric; the audience were left captivated by the surreal nature of his being. However, the more introverted role of Presley is something Joe White should be extremely proud of, he stole the show and transported the audience into this horrifying nightmare. Article 19 have done great work with a play that arguably questions Ridley's sanity.
Tutti Spring Concert
Selly Elim Church 19th March
Free, but a collection will be taken for the Normal Laud Association
well written and realistic, managing to give characters that could have been so easily underdeveloped unseen dimensions without losing their realness. With this, all actors definitely performed up to the challenge dealing with the challenges of such a sensitive issue and adding a comedy gloss to it. Did this live up to the chal-
lenge? Yes and no. As a play it was well performed and brilliantly directed with some intriguing portrayals. The satirical portrayals were at times hit and miss. Some scenes, particularly the domestic ones were excellent but others less so. Overall though a careful and clever approach to a difficult genre.
Krunch at The Drum
Tom Cooper Critic
'Identity, individuality, character, personality. What makes me, me? What makes you, you?' These are some of the issues tackled by the direct and witty play come musical poetry performance, Krunch. Over the course of the evening the nine character cast, addressed the audience offering a series of astute and engaging observations about modern popular culture through monologues, dance routines, lyrics and short dialogue scenes. The cast never seemed insincere as they spoke candidly of their experiences of black culture in the UK and allowed the audience to empathise with the concerns raised. Throughout this invigorating performance the metronomic
beats of DJ, Matt Smith set the tempo perfectly for the night's entertainment. So rich was the play in its ideas that it was perhaps too ambitious. Krunch endeavoured to depict the experiences of black youth in the UK, yet there are simply too many issues here to fit into seventy minutes. The play jumped with no apparent order from interracial marriage, to self-image and even the role of the BNP leaving the audience amazed and bamboozled in equal measure. Despite this, to the plays credit, serious, thought provoking subjects of racial stereotyping and surveillance were addressed with care and never looked like becoming embittered or angry, remaining hopefully upbeat. The mood was lightened by comedic parodies of modern obsessions with image, fashion and the media that brought laughs without compromising the serious message of the performance. It is disappointing, after hearing such a stirring and enjoyable show, to look around and realise it's an almost solely black audience as people regardless of their ethnic makeup would benefit from hearing its powerful message of hope and unity. With any luck they will come to see Krunch and hopefully may even leave wondering 'what does make me, me and what makes you, you?'
Sid Peacock and Surge mac 24th March £7
Article 19 Presents: Alfie
Deb Hall 24th & 25th March £5
Pertencia: The Butcher Baby's Tale mac 25th March £9
WIN £200 & OTHER 1 1 0 2 Y E V SUR
CASH PRIZES!
The Guild wants to hear YOUR VIEW to help us plan for the future, and make sure we’re providing the services you need. Fill out the ‘Your View’ survey online and tell us what you think of your Guild of Students. Visit www.guildofstudents.com to complete the survey - from Friday 18th March onwards. All students who complete the YOUR VIEW survey will be picked at random to win a top prize of £200, or one of three runner-up prizes of between £5 - £25 cash!
www.guildofstudents.com
E N U J 6 1 Y THURSDASITY CAMPUS IVER TH
@ UN
It’s that time of year again, and preparations are being made for Grad Ball 2011. For the second year running the event is being held on campus on Thursday 16th June. With top name acts, a free funfair and silent disco it’s bound to be a night to remember, and the perfect way to celebrate the end of the year in style. For those who haven’t attended the Grad Ball before, there are two types of tickets available – Dinner tickets for final year students only, and After Dinner tickets which are available to everyone. Dinner tickets are £67.50, and include a three course meal and access to all entertainment. As with last year there will be two venues for Dinner ticket holders - the Great Hall, seating 500 and the Noble Room in Staff House seating 300. Tickets will be sold on a first come first served basis. After Dinner Tickets are priced £37.50 and are available to all students and will allow you access to all of the entertainment that evening including the funfair and silent disco. An exclusive After Party will conclude in the evening, at the Guild from 2am – late, tickets are £5. All tickets for the event – including Dinner Tickets, After Dinner Tickets and After Party Tickets will go on sale Friday 6th May. Dinner Tickets are on sale from 10am – 12noon; and After Dinner Tickets are on sale from 12noon onwards from the Underground at Guild of Students.
OM R F E L A S N TICKETS OTH MAY FRIDAY 6 For further ticket information and headline act announcements
visit guildofstudents.com/gradball
16
redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick
18th March 2011
Film
Mark Ruffalo to play Jazz Pianist The Kids Are Alright star will play pianist Joe Albany after completion of The Avengers, later this year
The Eagle – Romans not welcome in Scotland
Francis Shaw sits down with Channing Tatum, Jamie Bell and director, Kevin MacDonald Jamie Bell: I still don't know what we were given, some sort of gelatine like in sweets I was told, but I don't believe it. When it came to the rat eating scene there was sheet rain and it was almost too dark to shoot, obviously the perfect time to break out the rats! CT: A fiercely wet evening is the perfect time to be on a Scottish hillside gagging on a rat-shaped piece of gelatine. (To Tahar Rahim and Kevin) What was it like learning a new and obscure language? Did you know what you were saying?
Were the roles physically arduous? What did you do to prep the actors? Kevin MacDonald: We didn't tell them what it would be like. Channing was born in Florida and lives in LA so he wasn't expecting Scotland in winter! For the actors there were even more challenges due to the period costume – it's not Gortex! Duncan Kenworthy (Producer): I wanted the film to seem as authentic as possible. Gladiator was a great film but since then the genre has become very CGI heavy. I wanted a more real and believable style.
We used the real location, despite the setbacks and issues it caused. What was the rapport like between Channing and Jamie? Channing Tatum: We got along well off the bat and had to be reminded of the tension between the characters and their differences. We only laugh together at the end scene but we were laughing all the way through filming. Jamie, you play a slave after all. What food were you really given when you had to eat a rat?
Tahar Rahim: Yes, I knew what I was saying, but I had a good coach who taught me very well. She would repeat the lines and I would say them back as best I could. I tried my best to make it believable. KMcD: We scripted the Gaelic. It was translated from English. It was an important plot point that Channing didn't know the language and so we felt strongly that there should be an authentic language barrier in the film. (To Jamie) Can you compare the realism of this shoot your experience of motion-capturing Tin Tin and (to Channing) the heavy CGI of GI Joe?
Top Ten: Father-Son Moments 8 Finding Nemo After battling the ocean to rescue Nemo, father and son are finally reunited, with the youngster having learned to appreciate a bit of fatherly love.
7 Back to the Future In a reversal of roles, Marty (Michael J. Fox) ends up giving his father (Crispin Glover) advice to ensure his own future. The exchanges between the pair are entertaining but meaningful as Marty encourages his dad to stand up for himself.
6 The Kid 10 Catch Me If You Can In an inspirational moment between father and son, Frank senior (Christopher Walken) unwittingly gives Frank junior (Leonardo Dicaprio) his first cheque book, sparking off his conman career. The bond between these two is unmistakeable and it is the last truly sincere and honest moment between them.
9 The Empire Strikes Back The list would not be complete without the infamous 'Luke I am your father' moment. Unfortunately the revelation is not well received and does not mark the start of an exactly beautiful relationship.
Slapstick aside, there is a real love between the Tramp (Charlie Chaplin) and his adopted son (Jackie Coogan). Their separation may be anguishing, but the duo's reunion is tender and humorous.
5 Billy Elliot Despite his father telling him that ballet is not for boys, Billy (Jamie Bell) defiantly stands up to him by dancing his little socks off. Realising that his son has the chance of success, he prepares to cross the picket line for him.
Film News
JB: It is tech vs. nature, you can't get more different. They are the absolute opposite. We were really out there interacting with real animals and landscapes. CT: I have been training ever since I was swinging sticks in my back yard as a kid. Also we trained extensively beforehand to make it look natural. Did you do all your own stunts? Did you get any injuries? CT: Almost. Clambering down the river was too dangerous because the water level had risen significantly shortly before we arrived. That was stuntmen. Otherwise it was all us, but we didn't get anything worse than a few bangs and bruises. One scene requires me to put Tahar under water and it was so cold I went numb and could barely feel for the signal to let go. I was worried about that because I didn't want to accidentally drown anyone!
Pulp Squawks Quentin Tarantino has filed a lawsuit at LA county superior court, to sue his neighbour, Alan Ball, over 'intolerably loud' macaws. Tarantino's neighbour, the writer of American Beauty and True Blood, is the owner of exotic birds which emit 'obnoxious pterodactyl-like screams' at random intervals for seven or eight hours. Progress on Tarantino's next film, a Western, could be delayed as the birds are said to be seriously disrupting the director's writing abilities.
JB: All the actors were game for the stunts and competent physical actors, we couldn't let the side down and pussy out. We had to 'step up', sorry Channing (laughter). It got very competitive at times but it was really fun. The Eagle opens March 25 film@redbrickonline.co.uk
4 The Lion King Mufasa's death after sacrificing himself for Simba's safety is the biggest tearjerker in Disney history. I challenge anyone not to get emotional.
3 Pursuit of Happyness 'Don't ever let somebody tell you, you can't do something, not even me.' Will Smith's dreams may have been crushed but he will not let that happen to his son, who is incidentally played by his actual son, Jaden Smith.
Arnie is Back After recently ending his political career, 63-year-old Arnold Schwarzenegger has announced that he will be returning to the film industry. At the 'Arnold Seminar', he stated he has received offers for 15 films from Hollywood studios, including a new Terminator film and a remake of Predator. Schwarzenegger also disclosed that he is starring as a comic book character, which with the current influx of comic book films is no surprise. This role will be announced in April.
2 Forrest Gump The most touching scene in a film full of moving moments is when Forrest (Tom Hanks) asks whether his son is smart, concerned that he will have taken after himself in the intelligence department. In those few seconds he instantly becomes a great father.
1 Life is Beautiful Trying to protect his young son from the frightening reality of a concentration camp, a father (Roberto Benigni) pretends that it is all a game. The scene where he improvises the supposed rules of the camp in order to keep up the pretence is both hilarious and incredibly moving, truly conveying the strength of a father's love.
Tomb Raider GK Films has bought the rights to Tomb Raider, and are planning on rebooting the franchise. A new Tomb Raider film is hoping to be released in 2013. Predicted to be an origins story, Angelina Jolie will no longer play Croft. Rumors of Megan Fox playing the role have emerged, but this was later retracted, therefore leaving the actress for Croft still unknown. Sarah Coe
Redbrick
Editors – Matt Davis, Elmley de la Cour
Editorial Life in film
Matt Davis
Film 17
18th March 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Reviews
!
!
!
!
!
UNMISSABLE
!
!
!
!
EXCELLENT
!
!
!
GOOD
!
!
POOR
TRAGIC
!
Limitless
Film Editor
The elusive honchos behind this Film section have maintained throughout the year that editorials would be non-existent -mainly for our own laziness – unless there arose a burning cinematic issue that needed contemplation. This pivotal moment has arrived. Each cinema lover acknowledges the emotive tug on the heartstrings that is caused by an intricate film, and the arduous couple of minutes that is needed to drag your poignantly stunned skeleton off the couch. I can name a film that will surmise every emotion and leave the endeavor for catharsis quintessentially satisfied. The raging, choleric emotion of frustration and anguish is portrayed in many a film. And movies that express these sentiments are popular because they reflect the emotions of every single one of us. As students, we recognise the indignation that is felt when we receive a bad mark. We can conjure up that obnoxious professor who has scribbled and puked redpen all over a hard-grafted essay.
Director: Neil Burger Cast: Bradley Cooper, Anna Friel, Abbie Cornish Rating: 15 'What if a pill could make you rich and powerful?' That's the tagline and premise for Limitless, a glossy action-thriller starring grin-of-the-year winner Bradley Cooper. In the film the question is aimed at down-on-his-luck, downon-his-hygiene writer, Eddie Morra, who accepts the offer and turns his life around in a matter of days. He gets the girl, the job and the cash, but none of this comes without a price as Morra is plagued with the warranted paranoia that violent killers are on his tail. While Morra's newfound skills could push the character into annoying territory, Cooper's charm and huge likeability encourage us to root for him. And, like a stock-broking, drug-addled Jason Bourne, he takes to the action se-
quences brilliantly. His performance here certainly secures him as a talented and flexible fresh face in the movie industry; if you can successfully intimidate Robert De Niro, you know you've made it. De Niro is on great form as Morra's new employer, breezing through lines with easily believable control and power. He's a brilliant, if slightly underused, highlight to a fantastic supporting cast that includes a fraught Anna Friel skil-
fully portraying the bleak results of a very bad drug-withdrawal. Director Neil Burger has clearly had fun with this film, and it's definitely contagious. The effects of the drug are shared with the audience in playful and innovative ways including letters showering around Morra and a particularly effective sequence speeding through the streets of New York. And it's all topped off with an enjoyably unexpected twist.
Limitless isn't quite as intellectually challenging as it might hope but it's certainly a highly enjoyable, exciting and suspenseful thriller. A brilliant lead performance by Cooper and a great turn from De Niro make this a very recommended watch. Genevieve Taylor !
!
!
!
Redbrick recommends...Heartless
Rabbit Hole
Don't perceive Redbrick's Film Editor to be a gothic wrist-slitter One could just work harder, however, I recommend performing a genuine rendition of Taxi Driver – the Scorsese masterpiece which epitomises an individual unleashing his ferocious pain back onto society. Trust me, it will make you feel better. The consequences of a jail sentence may act as a deterrent, but it is guaranteed to make you feel better than a tedious session in the library. Yet, don't perceive Redbrick's Film Editor to be a gothic wristslitter. We all cherish the complete polar emotion of happiness and ecstasy. The warmhearted, sensational feeling that simply obliterates any previous negative emotion. Be it a spontaneous night out with a group of old friends or that blossoming connection with someone new, every person in the whole world can put a film to describe the intuition of pure blissfulness. Dead Poets Society is the perfect exemplification of that bound which you often find in your step. This is a film catapulting energy, creativity and inspiration back into a life which was previously mundane and unadventurous. And this emotive ricochet from melancholy to feelings of exuberance is not just symbolic of cinema, it's symbolic of life. Choose action in 127 Hours. Choose intellectual stimulation in Beautiful Mind. Choose the truly epic in Gladiator. Choose ultimate human wretchedness and its haunting connotations in Schindlers List. Choose gripping gangsterism in The Godfather.
Director: John Cameron Mitchell Cast: Nicole Kidman, Aaron Eckhart Rating: 18 Based on a Pulitzer Prize-winning play, Rabbit Hole follows Becca (Kidman) and Howie (Eckhart) as they struggle to cope with the loss of their son, and the effect this has on their family, friends and their relationship. This is less a film of plot than of emotion, an intimate portrayal of grief in which nothing really happens except everyday life, with a painful twist. We watch as Becca and Howie make mistakes, push people away and miscommunicate over the course of their grieving. And yet, this is not a bleak film. It is difficult to describe this film without making it sound unendingly depressing, which does it a disservice. There are many funny moments and some warming moments, and actually very few really sad moments. This is perhaps the
films greatest strength, it covers a range of emotion, following the peaks and troughs of feeling that come with grief. The way you feel watching the film is the same as a grieving person: you feel bad for laughing, but then realise it's ok. Not only has Mitchell perfectly pitched the emotional spectrum, he has also created a wonderful looking film. It is a film full of colour and light, which provides a beautiful contrast to Becca's drab clothes and the couple's grief. It provides a sense that life carries on, and the world is still beautiful despite personal tragedies, something that is a recurring theme in the film. This is not a film preoccupied by death, but one which shows life carrying on despite death, and that is the reason that you end the film feeling somewhere between refreshed and pleased, but nowhere near depressed. Kate Ferris !
!
!
Director: Philip Ridley Cast: Jim Sturgess, Noel Clarke Certificate: 18 Living at the heart of a Faustian, nightmare London, Jamie (Jim Sturgess)'s life has been far from perfect. While raised by an affectionate Mum and supportive Dad, his face has been forever blighted by a semi-disfiguring, heart shaped birthmark. On top of this, gangs of vicious hooded monsters rove the streets, making the news with their homicidal muggings and terrifying 'masks'. Following the death of not only his friend A.J. (Noel Clarke) but his mother too, in equally horrifying gang incidents as well as the pressures of his infatuation with the beautiful model Tia (Clémence Poésy), Jamie feels trapped in his desperate little life. Disgusted with his appearance, knowing that a woman like Tia could never find him attractive, and traumatised by the brutal
murder of his mother at the hands of the gangs; Jamie is lead across London to the grim flat of Papa B and his daughter Belle. They offer him the chance to change his life (in return, of course, for a little favour). In horrifying scenes of torment and rebirth, Jamie's skin is transformed and he starts to see the world differently, until the Weapons Man (Eddie Marsan) sweeps in to ensure Jamie meets his end of the bargain. Murder and torment run through almost every strand of narrative, coupled with Jamie's flashbacks to happier times with his, long dead, father. Jamie must meet with the consequences of his decision, commit distressing crimes, while attempting to keep his life, his face and his burgeoning romance with Tia together. Heartless (2009) is loaded with thrilling twists and unsettling imagery, and serves to bolster feelings against uncertainty in the current British film climate. Izzy Sanders
18 redbrickpaper.co.uk
Television TV News
Redbrick
18th March 2011
'Top Ten Unseen Characters' plus Review: The Ricky Gervais Show redbrickpaper.co.uk
After months of suspense, Simon Cowell has stated his plans to reveal the X Factor US lineup next week and he has promised 'the best judging panel so far'. After all the controversy will Cheryl Cole's American Dream finally come true?
Miranda Hart was the big winner at this year's Royal Television Society Programme Awards. The comedienne was given 'The Comedy Performance' trophy and her show Miranda won the 'Scripted Comedy' prize.
Naked Ambition Cheyenne Bunsie Reporter
The celebrity world is certainly a strange one, the fight to become a star and the battle to remain at the top is a feat managed successfully by few. Good looks and great acting chops don't necessarily guarantee longevity. Nevertheless Channel Four have decided to celebrate the time honoured celebrity method of flashing the flesh to gain notoriety. Hosted by FHM favourite Kelly Brook, Celebrity Naked Ambition gives us the top 25 celebs who have furthered their careers by stripping off. Just to be technical, points were given based on bankability and popularity, as well as the flesh show. Kicking off the list is Hollywood treasure Halle Berry whose graphic, yet well placed nudity in the 2001 film Monster's Ball helped her to make history when she deservedly became the first woman of colour to win an Oscar. The list upheld quality in the shape of its 'nude dudes' with silver haired heartthrob Richard Gere, who became something of a man candy in the 80s and 90s, and Ewan McGregor, who makes the grade for his sheer enjoyment of being on equal par with the ladies and never objecting to dropping his draws when the role requires it. The show features legends of glamour, such as the late Charlie's Angel star Farrah Fawcett, whose infamous pin up poster and enviable hair catapulted her to fame;
as well as original Bond girl Ursula Celebrity Naked Ambition Andress who proves that leaving is quite an enjoyable insight into a little to the imagination can still the fame game, although graphic drive men wild. pictures of nether regions were The programme shows variety aplenty! in illustrating that not all nudity Kelly Brook is also a poor prehas the desired effect. Ill received senter, simply reading her autocue nudity can sink the careers of with zero personality and remindhousehold names, such as Demi ing us why she got the boot from Moore and also Sharon Stone, who Britain's Got Talent. became so well known for her leg Crop out Kelly crossing scene in Basic Instinct it and the show is came to define her. well worth a Figures such as Sienna Millgiggle. You er came under attack as well as can watch queen of pop Madonna for the scanless than impressive acting dalous skills, yet more boobs than show on you can shake a stick 4OD. at on screen. The top five sees Pamela Anderson beaten to number four, as surprisingly yet rather logically Dame Helen Mirren takes the crown. M i r r e n from a young age has enjoyed quite a successful career from showing her skin and it was her move from being known for such roles yet still gaining the respect of her peers and g o i n g on to win the Oscar playing the ruling monarch herself that ensures her victory. Kelly Brook takes a look at celebs who strip off.
Britain's Answer To House? Rebecca Green Reporter
Monroe is a brand new six part medical drama, which features Sarah Parish as a cardiac surgeon, Tom Riley as anesthetist and James Nesbitt as the epon-
ymous Dr Monroe, an eccentric and ego-maniac neurosurgeon. There are definite comparisons between Monroe and House, as the two main characters are both mavericks, geniuses in their fields and enjoy insulting their fellow doctors. However, Monroe makes its own mark and is a promising British medical drama. Monroe explores the world of neurosurgery. Looking at the effect brain tumours and brain surgery can have on the lives of the patients, their families and even the doctors and surgeons involved. The show is written by Peter Bowker (Wuthering Heights, Eric and Ernie) who had his own experience of the world of neurosurgery when his four year old daughter was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Monroe is a genius with flaws. His wife of 22 years has left him, his son has moved away to university, and his life has been left in disarray. Monroe’s real domain is in the operating theatre, as is demon-
strated when he fails to turn up to a family meal, choosing instead to stay at the hospital to talk to one of his patients. The drama illustrates the struggle doctors have to keep a balance between their family life and work life. Neurosurgeons are so busy dealing with other people’s thoughts and lives that they are liable to neglect their own. Monroe deals with these issues in a serious yet comical way. Nesbitt’s smart one liners bring a comical element to the show, for example when he explains that the only difference between a neurosurgeon taking a knife to someone’s head and a psychopath is good A-Levels. The only criticism I have with the show is that Nesbitt’s character dominates and perhaps overshadows the rest of the cast. However one certain bet is that Monroe is a great watch and can be enjoyed by all. Watch Monroe on ITV1, Thursday at 9pm.
The Kennedys, due to premiere in April, has already run into trouble. The US mini-series, which stars Greg Kinnear and Katie Holmes, was dropped by History because the network deemed it too 'dramatic' and now advertisers are reluctant to buy airtime during the politically 'controversial' show.
A Commercial Failure Russell Webb Reporter
Whether we like it or not, adverts have become an essential part of television. Some that are produced are brilliant and others just baffling. It seems that in recent times adverts have stopped relating to their product, with advertising companies caring more about creating a minute movie. The life and times of Alexander the Meerkat is first and foremost an exceptionally entertaining and innovative advert. The adverts are extremely memorable, and have turned out to be a great franchise - the lovable Russian rodent now has his own book! But, the point of an advert is to sell a product and I often find myself struggling to remember what Alexander is even advertising. This has been made increasingly difficult with the elaborate nature of the newest series of adverts that show the Meerkat visiting local schools and businesses with financial problems. It really is ludicrous to think that the adverts are supposed to be selling a comparison website. Some adverts nowadays don’t even show their product until the very end. Perfume and aftershave adverts are the worst at this. All the producers want to do in this instance is create a sexy scene with good looking, scantily clad celebrities. Obviously it is difficult to advertise a product that is heavily reliant on your sense of smell, but there is no need for the abstract, drama that these companies produce. One of the best adverts that I can remember is the old Jaffa Cake commericial. ‘Full Moon. Half
Moon. Total Eclipse.’ That advert was truly brilliant because everyone wanted to buy those biscuits and replicate the scene. If you had Jaffa Cakes in your lunchbox at school, everyone expected you to copy the advert. Another food product with a memorable advert was Milkybar. The adverts have changed somewhat down the years, but they have always had the famous tagline: ‘The Milkybars are on me!’ and the stereotypical weedy blonde haired boy with the infamous outfit. Even when the adverts were cartoonised the character stayed the same. Again, this had a clear relation to the product and has inspired many fancy dress outfits. However, these days adverts like this are few and far between. A d vertising s h o u l d serve the purpose to publicise first and entertain second. If they do both, then everyone is a winner.
Adverts bear little relation to the product they are advertising.
Redbrick
18th March 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Editors – Amber Alexander & Charlotte Lytton
Is this the end for TV talent shows? Amber Alexander says YES....
Charlotte Lytton says NO...
Television Editor
Television Editor
Ever since Popstars aired in 2001, there has been a boom in TV talent shows. The ITV reality series, which spawned the cheesy and short lived pop band Hear'Say, was quickly followed by a host of similar programmes, all searching for 'the next big thing'. However, unlike Popstars, which morphed into Pop Idol, which ceded to the X Factor, the TV talent show today just won't seem to die. Every network seems to have its own talent show and every year, these same shows get recommissioned despite the fact that no one will even remember the 'talent' they produced. Matt Cardle who? It is virtually impossible to switch the channel without stumbling across another set of melodramatic hopefuls, rude judges and 'shocking' twists. Wasn't it just scandalous when the Dancing On Ice contestants had to vote each other off several weeks ago? No, it wasn't. These shows used to be entertaining, and it was nice to see normal people catch a break, but they have run their course. Watching Jennifer Lopez tell the thirteenth tone-deaf contestant how amazing they were on American Idol the other night made me actually contemplate turning on my laptop and working on my dissertation. The contemporary talent
show isn't just boring, it's painful. The sob stories are irritating, the judges are embarrassing and the episodes are dragged out and overdramatic. No, I don't care about Gamu, no, I won't be buying SuBo's album and no, I can't approve of a programme which has allowed Alexandra Burke onto my TV screen. With the imminent return of Britain's Got Talent and the drama over who will make t h e judgi n g panel on the US version of the X Factor, it seems that the TV talent show is very much alive. I'm just waiting for someone to kill it.
Rubbish TV Advert of the Week:
Fighting for their Lives
There's no denying that the last decade has seen an unprecedented boom in TV talent shows. Promising to make the average Joe into a worldwide superstar, these programmes have made their money by appealing to the masses. Whilst it's true that many of the winners fade into oblivion after their fifteen minutes of fame, these shows have also given the genuinely talented a shot at the big time. Will Young and Leona Lewis are fine examples of TV talent success stories, achieving critical acclaim and bona fide star status in their own rights. These programmes may have become predictable in their old age, but they are simply giving us what we want: high drama, catty comments, and people to fall in and out of love with. Media moguls such as
Simon Cowell and Tyra Banks may be motivated by the moolah, but they have created television franchises that have defined a cultural generation. The initial stages of these talent searches may resemble a modern day Victorian freak show, but their shock/comedy value is unparalleled. Watching duetting teens punch each other in the face or endless dog owners promising that their pooch is the next Shirley Bassey certainly never fails to entertain. The amount of media coverage dedicated to the changing line-up of the US X Factor panel demonstrates just how alive and kicking our infatuation with TV talent shows still is. Column inches are permanently dedicated to the never ending Cheryl versus Dannii sagas, and crazy contestants are no sooner kicked out of these competitions than being pictured baring all on page 3 of the red-tops. Aspiring musicians' sob stories about how it was their cat's dying wish for them to hit the big time do verge on the ridiculous, but they are an inescapable part of the talent search machine. The X Factor isn't the most intellectually stimulating thing on the box, but it is hot property in TV land that towers over its small screen competitors.
23 Week Babies: The Price of Life looks at the devastating struggle of babies born at 23 weeks. Sarah Pullen Reporter
Nokia's new advert features a blind man extolling the virtues of a camera phone. Apparently, it's not sex that sells anymore, but visual impairments.
Series of the Week:
The Only Way is Essex is making a return to our screens on Sunday, featuring a selection of Brentwood's finest.
Hot off the press:
Big Brother 11 winner Josie Gibson has been given her own three part series. The show will air in May.
23 Week Babies: The Price of Life is a fascinating, if harrowing, documentary about babies born in the 23rd week of pregnancy – the point at which life is potentially viable. With only nine out of every 100 babies born at 23 weeks surviving, and only one in 100 reaching adulthood without disability, it made for uneasy watching. Award-winning director Adam Wishart had unprecedented access to the most premature babies born at Birmingham Women's Hospital. As one might have expected, it resulted in heart-breaking and somewhat intrusive television. It raised some issues which are too often overlooked because the subject is a delicate one. Even though these issues are distressing, they must still be addressed nonetheless. If one is to be very hardheaded about the situation, then you could question the fact that every year in the UK, a few hundred babies are born in their 23rd week, of which perhaps only two or three will go on to lead able bodied lives. Yet their care costs the NHS tens of millions of pounds. Does it make economic sense? If that money could be invested in saving, or improving, the lives of hundreds of others, then it would seem that this money is not being well spent. In the Netherlands, and other European nations, babies are not resuscitated at 23 weeks as the intervention, more often than not, is unsuccessful and hugely costly. Wishart argues that money
could be better spent on endeavouring to lower the rate of premature births in this country – one of the worst in Europe – rather than on trying to fix the problem once those babies are born. However, this programme was not merely focussed on whether or not it makes financial sense to keep these extremely premature babies alive, but whether or not it is the morally right thing to do. In the last 15 years, we have
seen survival rates for premature babies born after the 24th week of pregnancy double. Meanwhile, the prospects for the 23rd week babies remain as bleak as ever – medicine only having succeeded in extending their short lives a little longer. The question is whether intervention is the right thing to do, or if it will just cause unnecessary suffering for a baby whose chances of survival are slim, at best. The staff on the medical team at Birmingham Women's Hospital seemed to agree that keeping babies alive at 23 weeks was not, gen-
erally, the best course of action. However they also acknowledged that parents will almost always cling desperately to the smallest chance of a good outcome for their child. And who can blame them? One of the most powerful things about this documentary is its ability to make people question what they would do in that situation – something that really forces the viewer to think. The answer to that is that most of us wouldn't know unless we were unlucky enough to be put in that position. And that is a place in which the system is fundamentally flawed; the decision to resuscitate a 23 week-er should lie with medical professionals and not with the parents. The responsibility is too great for distraught parents to cope with, and they cannot be expected to make such a decision when plagued by grief and emotion. Resuscitation, as Wishart argues, ought to be the exception, not the rule. With so little chance of a good outcome, only those babies with a decent chance of survival should be resuscitated. It makes little sense to spend money and use valuable resources on those unlikely to make it, or who will be seriously disabled if they do. 23 Week Babies is a powerful documentary which forces you to ultimately question your own moral stance and to confront the age old question: can you put a price on a life? 23 Week Babies: The Price of Life is available to watch now on BBC iPlayer.
Television 19
Preview of the week Charlotte Lytton Television Editor
White Van Man is BBC Three's latest comic endeavour. Starring Will Mellor, of Three Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps fame, he plays Ollie – you guessed it – a white van man. Rocket science, it ain't. Taking over his retired father's handyman business, Ollie must learn the tricks of the trade – and fast. He is sent straight into the depths of the painting/plastering world, and again, predictably, this doesn't go to plan. Armed with useless sidekick Darren, between them, this calamity duo manages to defecate on a client's towel, get accused of impregnating a girl and fall victim to theft. And this is all on the first day… The programme is dull and predictable, and features a whole
Ollie's the white van man around town
host of stupid scenarios that fail to amuse or entertain. A prime example of this is when Ollie takes a painting job at a local office. The staff can't get over the 'uncanny' resemblance he bears to one of their colleagues – who turns out to have Down's Syndrome. Cue outrage and insults from the not-so-handy man, which leads to him being relieved of his duties. The show suffers from a huge lack of imagination, as well as relying on over-egged stereotypes to provide comic value. The endless mishaps are so quick and pointless, they leave no room for an actual storyline to unfold: the characters are uninspiring, the acting wooden, and the plot nonexistent. Maybe Ollie's exploits will become more interesting as the series progresses, but after the first two episodes, my expectations are low. He dreams of leaving the world of fixtures and fittings behind and creating his own luxury breakfast bar – 'The Toast Office' (I kid you not). However, after being kicked out of catering school for mistakenly baking marijuana into his lasagne instead of oregano, his culinary career doesn't look promising. Will Mellor has yet again been typecast, and whilst he plays the cheeky chappie role decently enough, this show is a million miles away from making a smallscreen smash. BBC Three has earned a bit of a bad reputation for producing low quality, low cost programmes, and sadly, this show does not dispel the rumour. White Van Man begins on Tuesday 22nd March.
20 redbrickpaper.co.uk
18th March 2011
Food
Redbrick
Brum Dine With Me: how it all unfolded Two weeks of dinner party madness have finally come to an end. Food Editors Dami Olugbode and Harriet Constable report on how the events went. Don't forget to log onto www.redbrickpaper.co.uk to see the footage.
Fair Trade Food Fortnight
Vicky Hodgkinson Senior Writer
Charlotte and Steffi
Mikey and Fred
Anthea and Mike
Natalie and Katy
Charlotte and Steffi had the nerveracking task of hosting the first of the four dinner parties. Their theme had an Arabian feel, with the dining area set out with cushions on the floor and a low table to share mezze off. We asked the girls how they were feeling before everyone arrived: both contestants were nervous and Steffi was frantically preparing the last few bits. She commented 'I wish we had more space!' as she flew around the house grabbing extra plates. Mikey and Fred were the first contestants to arrive and after a slightly awkward few minutes the other contestants had joined. The banter began and everyone seemed to settle in. We interviewed the contestants after the main course to find out their thoughts so far. Both Natalie and Katy commented, 'the girls are really nice and bubbly, and the mezze was a great idea, but the main course wasn't so nice; the chicken was very bland and the broccoli was undercooked.' Anthea and Mike had similar views, and also added that sitting on the floor was 'very uncomfortable.'
Mikey and Fred hosted the second dinner party on Saturday the 5th of March. We arrived as they were tucking into their main course to find out how everyone was getting on. The boys had gone all out and everyone seemed to be impressed by the table (a rarity in selly oak houses), and the eight accompanying chairs. The guests were greeted by a glass of champers and candles, creating a great atmosphere. All contestants commended the home made butternut squash soup as 'excellent'. For the main course Mikey and Fred served a traditional meal of roast lamb. Charlotte commented that 'they've gone to a lot of effort but I don't like it. Lamb really isn't my favourite food.' The contestants commended the excellent hosts; Anthea and Mike felt it had been a great night but it would have been nice if the pair were 'in the room more' as they were often in and out grabbing the next course. Overall the pair scored very highly and will enjoy their prize of a complementary meal at Pizza Express. They said they were 'very proud to have won.' Well done!
Anthea and Mike hosted the third dinner party on Friday 11th March. Not having a dinner table was not an issue for this pair, as they used their initiative to dismantle a door and suspend it in the living room for the guests to eat around. The contestants seemed to find this amusing and were all very impressed by their efforts, apart from Charlotte who commented, 'it was very uncomfortable sitting by the door handle.' The menu seemed to us the most inventive of all and the contestants were pleased with the goats cheese and parma ham starter. This was followed by their slowly roasted pork belly served with mash and vegetables which Fred referred to as 'a good effort.' The contestants left drunk after a few to many 'sex on the beach' cocktails. Many of them said it was the best night in terms of the ambience. Anthea and Mike tied for the winning score and will therefore also enjoy their prize of a complimentary meal for two at award winning restaurant The Dilshad. Congratulations to them!
Natalie and Katy were given the honour of bringing the entire experience to a close by hosting the fourth and final dinner party. All the contestants were able to relive their first year glory days, stepping back onto The Vale and into Natalie and Katy's student flat. Having started preparations a bit late, the girls were unable to properly greet their guests as they ran around putting the last minute touches to their starter, an assortment of mezze. All the contestants seemed to enjoy the starter but the highlight for Anthea and Mike was the main, Lamb and apricot Tangine served with couscous. Anthea commented, 'I enjoyed it. The lamb was nice and tender.' The girls went one step further than the other contestants with some light entertainment courtesy of their flatmate, Tom, who played the guitar as they enjoyed their dessert, Baklava served with hot beverages. At the end of the night most of the contestants mentioned that the entertainment was not their cup of tea but commended the girls for their unique touch to the night. Certainly a memorable conclusion!
Total Score: 17
Total Score: 24
Total Score: 24
Total Score: 22
'And the winner of Brum Dine With Me is... it's a tie!' Mikey and Fred, and Anthea and Mike both received a total score of 24 for their dinner parties, they will both receive a complementary meal.
Friday 11th of March saw the final day of 'Fairtrade fortnight', a two week period asking everyone, everywhere to 'Show off your label.' As I stumbled into the library at 10am I inevitably headed straight for the ilounge to find sustenance. I saw stacks of Fairtrade goods that had seemingly appeared from nowhere overnight and cards on the tables publicising the fortnight. The premise of the two week period is to showcase Fairtrade products to raise awareness for the FAIRTRADE mark. The Fairtrade Foundation's vision is of 'a world in which justice and sustainable development are at the heart of trade structures and practice' so all of those involved can earn a decent and fair living. To achieve this the foundation want to transform trading structures and practices in favour of poor and disadvantaged workers and producers, by facilitating trading partnerships based on 'equity and transparency'. Their four main areas of activity include: providing an independent certification of the trade chain; licensing use of the FAIRTRADE Mark as a consumer guarantee on products; facilitating the market to grow demand for Fairtrade and enable producers to sell to traders and retailers; working with their partners to support producer organisations and their networks and raising public awareness of the need for Fairtrade products. The Fairtrade Foundation has over 3,000 licensed products for sale and the UK is one of the world's leading Fairtrade markets with more products than anywhere else. These products include specific brands like: Divine chocolate bars, Geo cereal bars, CafÊ Direct coffee, the rather expensive (£17.70) San Cristobal drinking chocolate (I bet it's delicious) and more general products like: bananas, honey, tea, rice, ice cream, jam, nuts, yoghurt and wine! Just look for the FAIRTRADE mark to ensure you're buying the right products. There is a small section in the Spar at the Guild of Students showcasing some of these products – go have a look! So why should you buy Fairtrade certified products? As a shopper it can guaranteed that disadvantaged producers and workers in developing countries are getting a better deal. Fairtrade products allow fairer and more stable prices and facilitate longer-term trading relationships. You haven't really got anything to lose shopping fair trade as the food is of a good quality and you can be philanthropic whilst at the supermarket. Perfect.
Redbrick
Food 21
18th March 2011 www.redbrickpaperco.uk
Editors – Dami Olugbode, Harriet Constable
La Cucina Italiana
It's Italy Week!
Piccolino, Brindley Place Harriet Constable Food Editor
Gorgeous cocktails, attentive waiters, a candle lit and atmospheric restaurant buzzing with laughter and talk, excellent food, good company: this is what I had to endure on Wednesday night. Terrible life, isn't it. I have three sentences which I feel adequately summarise my opinion of Piccolino restaurant in Brindley place: Love it. Love it. Love it. Let me start with the atmosphere, as this was the first thing to indulge my senses. The restaurant is dark, warm, sprinkled with candlelight (without being cringingly over-romantic) and buzzing with the chatter of satisfied customers. It is jam packed full on a Wednesday night at 8pm. Although the restaurant is large: they can comfortably host a party of 70 for a special occasion or private function at the back, and continue their ordinary service, it is comfortable and personal. There are a number of booths swinging through the middle of the restaurant, cutting up the large space; these would be perfect for a group. We arrived, happy to escape the gusts of wind and to enter this lively establishment. A kind waitress greeted us, took our coats and suggested we could, if we liked, have a drink at the bar before sit-
ting. We liked. I had a deliciously refreshing 'Kim Sha' cocktail which consisted of vodka, peach, raspberries and pomegranate. The drinks list is extensive, which always delights me, but choosing was somewhat of a challenge. I was not, however, disappointed by my cocktail gamble. When we had quenched our thirst and finished admiring the beautiful bar and restaurant layout, we were lead to our seats and offered the menu by our personable waiter, Gabriele Nenni. Piccolino prides itself on representing the 'true taste of Italy' in its dishes, and I must say they did not let us down. Our waiter was truly Italian, which was an excellent start, and his explanation of the menu included the line 'my grandma uses this gnocchi recipe in Rome.' After which, we were hooked. Furthermore, much of the food is home made, including the complimentary breadsticks (highlight of the night) and passion fruit sorbet which is to die for. We started with a tasty Fritto Misto dish – an array of lightly battered prawns, squid and asparagus with garlic butter. We then moved on to a main course, I tried the 'Fusilli al Salmone': a rich pasta dish containing peas, smoked salmon and a creamy mascarpone sauce which was priced at around £12. It tasted
divine but was too rich to eat a whole bowl. My companion had spicy roasted cod with chilli and garlic, which was flavoursome and just the right size. It might be slightly pricy for a student budget at £17.50, but it was worth every penny. If your thinking that this is outside of your price range I have good news! Piccolino currently offers a lunch menu between 12pm and 7pm which costs just £13.95 per person for two courses. I've mentioned my pudding, but my friend's was equally exciting: a martini glass full of espresso and Amaretti with a dollop of rich and creamy vanilla ice cream. Again it tasted wonderful, the size was right and it was nice to try something not so commonly on an 'Italian' menu. And as my friend so
Recipe of the week: Mushroom and Thyme Risotto
adequately put it 'anything served in a Martini glass is worth having.' Wise words. I must also say the manager Shazma Astle was lovely, we had an excellent chat about her time at the University of Birmingham. It seems that Piccolinos not only prides itself on authentic Italian cuisine, and an excellent varied menu, but also on customer service and employing professional staff who are talented at their jobs. I would recommend Piccolino to anyone wishing to celebrate a special evening in a wonderful setting. Request a seat by the window or sit outside in the summer, the setting will sweep your senses off to an Italian city square immediately. 'True taste of Italy', eat your heart out.
A Break in the Chain for Carluccio's James Morrisson Food Writer
Amelia Roberts Food Writer
Following our Italian food theme this week, here is my favourite risotto recipe from chef Rachel Allen. It's so quick and easy, but the result is a heart-warming tasty risotto to comfort anyone on a grey day. Say good-bye to the days of standing stirring risotto for an hour, this recipe simply requires about 15 minutes in the oven and hey-presto! This recipe serves 6, but you can easily halve the measurements for less people. Ingredients: 25 g dried Mushrooms such as porcini 400 ml boiling Water 2 tablespoons Olive Oil 1 small Onion peeled and chopped 2 Cloves Garlic peeled and crushed salt and black pepper
350 g Risotto Rice such as carnaroli or arborio 1 teaspoon fresh Thyme leaves, chopped 750 ml hot vegetable stock or chicken stock 125 ml white wine 75 g Parmesan Cheese grated 1 teaspoon fresh Thyme leaves to garnish Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/ Gas 4.
2.
Place the dried mushrooms in a bowl, add the boiling water, and leave to soak for ten minutes. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a medium sized ovenproof saucepan or casserole dish and cook the onion and garlic for a few minutes until soft and a little golden, ensuring not to burn. Season with salt and pepper.
3.
Drain the excess liquid from
the mushrooms into a clean bowl. Chop the mushrooms, and add them to the garlic and onions, along with the rice, chopped thyme and mushroom-soaking liquid. Pour the stock and the wine into the pan and bring the mixture to the boil. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. A top tip here is that if you don't have any wine to spare, just add the equivalent measure of water and it will do the same job!
4. Cover the mixture with a lid
and place it in the oven. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice has just cooked and all the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Stir in 50g/2oz of the grated parmesan. 6.
To serve, sprinkle with the remaining parmesan and thyme leaves.
I have been decidedly unimpressed with the wave of generic restaurant chains that have popped up in every city centre over the last decade. Yes, they serve their purpose; a quick bite before returning to the shops, but they whack on the price tag of, well frankly, something wholly better. Unlike Carluccio's. The atmosphere is relaxed, the restaurant light and open but with the low hum of busy conversation, nodoubt helped by what seems to be the obligatory rectangular chunk taken out of the wall to expose four or five chefs noisily at work in the kitchen. Yet, what gave away this disguise was the clientele; not the standard sea of suits and ties, but a vibrant mix of young and old, families and colleagues. Opening the menu, we weren't greeted with a lengthy list of unimaginative dishes of pizza and pasta with the odd risotto thrown in for good measure, but given a glimpse of the other side of Italian cookery. Gutsy meat dishes like braised shin of veal (£14) are interspersed with plates of light, fresh seafood like deep fried calamari, prawns and whitebait served with a wedge of lemon (£11); providing a helpful reminder to its counterparts that nearly the entire of Italy is surrounded by water. Not all of the dishes are so tiresome on the students' wallet, however. The fixed price menu (£9.95 for two courses, £12.45 for three), served all day, includes a number of dishes well worth a try. The starter
of chicken liver Pâté with toasted bread and cornichons, served in a rather large pot and sealed with a layer of wax, had a perfectly smooth texture and rich creamy flavour. From the main menu we tried a plate of Parma ham under a bed of rocket leaves and topped with roasted peppers and melted mozzarella (£7). Although perhaps the better sounding of the two, the dish arrived slightly to disappoint; the vinaigrette slightly flooding the rest of the plate, allowing the rocket to lose its crunch and become soggy. We also tried the hearty dish of pan-fried pork escalope wrapped in Pama ham (£12). This dish is not for the feign-hearted; big and meaty, with enough fat to clog an artery, but even more delicious for it. The sautéed potatoes with rosemary and additional side dish of zucchini (courgettes pan-fried with yet more butter and a heavy pinch of salt; £3) were so tasty that if Jamie Oliver could get his hands on these he could be getting school kids to eat their veg in a jiffy! For dessert we tried a panna cotta of vanilla and rum flavoured cream with candied orange. Well set, the panna cotta was as light as you could hope for. And I can't finish without mentioning their coffee. Offering a fine array from across the globe, their drinks are well made and well priced (£2). Try the 'cioccolata fiorentina'. There can be no doubt that Carluccio's is a break in the trend of chain dining. It provides a truer, more authentic eating experience.
22 redbrickpaper.co.uk
Life&Style
18th March 2011
Redbrick
Fierce or Finished?
Style icon: Edie Sedgwick Victoria Gardiner Writer
Edie Sedgwick might not be a name that has previously crossed your fingers in your Google style searches but bear with me and observe. A typical look in the life of Edie: chandelier earrings, a leopard leotard and sheer black tights finished off with a pop of colour or a drape of fur. Now tell me her fashion influence is anything but current and in full force amongst the women of today. Born on 20th April 1943, Sedgwick's early life was one of prestige, wealth, seclusion and heartbreak. Her childhood took place in two large Californian ranches where she was home schooled along with her seven brothers and sisters. Though her life looked idyllic from the outside, inside the bubble, the family had major problems, all seeming to primarily stem
from the relationships with the father 'Fuzzy'. Though Edie frequently described her adoration of her father, their tumultuous relationship was also plagued by his abuse and erratic behaviour. Edie suffered from bouts of anorexia and claims of mental illness resulting in frequent hospitalisation in her late teens. Some of Edie's siblings also had serious difficulties. At 25, her older brother, Minty, committed suicide whilst being treated for mental illness and alcoholism and another brother, Bobby, died prematurely from crashing his motorbike into the side of a bus. By 1963, despite her early struggles and trauma, Edie had made the move to Cambridge to study Art at a sister college of Harvard University. Quickly finding her social scene,
The pursuit of publicity
Temidayo Ashiru Writer
'Charlie is crazy'. 'No, he is WINNING'. The apparent decline in Charlie Sheen's sanity has become dominant in media outlets and a part of social conversations around the world. In today's society, such media coverage is seen as normal and unfortunately this article is a contributing factor to the hype surrounding the scandal. The saying, 'Any publicity is good publicity' exists for a reason; and while we use Mr. Sheen's infamous words to fill in awkward gaps in conversations, he is counting his millions all the way to the bank. In past years, the pursuit for publicity has been limited to events such as Elvis joining the army in 1958 and Madonna releasing her book, Erotica, in 1992. Scandals have evolved from a being a shameful ordeal that marked the beginning of a star's demise to a phenomenon that guarantees an increase in a person's public profile. However, 'Sheengate' and countless others before it are more than just scandals. I see them as publicity stunts. Today, the Paris
Hilton sex tape, Britney Spear's mental breakdowns and Kate Moss's drug scandal have made them household names. One has to ask why there has been such a drastic change. I believe two things contribute to the rise in scandals. First of all, we all love a bit of drama, it makes life more enjoyable. This is linked to the fact that people like to escape from their lives and watch others lead glamorous and exciting lifestyles. Finally, the public seems to take joy in the downfall of other people. For example, the continuous legal and personal issues of Lindsay Lohan are a recurring news feature. These two factors have changed the dynamics in show business. 'What about other scandals?' Kate Moss' cocaine snorting escapades landed her contracts with Yves Saint Laurent and many others; doubling her annual income from £2 million to £4 million. Reality show star Kim Kardashian's sex tape launched the Kardashian empire, earning them an estimated $65 million in 2010. Celebrity representatives have shamelessly perfected the art of milking scandals to increase their client's stardom and we as the audience fall victim, time after time to their elaborate publicity stunts. And why not? Everybody loves a good comeback. Maybe I am cynical, maybe this article just looks at circumstantial evidence, maybe these celebrities are truly distraught by these scandals, and maybe they had not intentionally planned for it to become public. Just maybe. On that note, the new Transformers movie comes out in July, maybe an 'unauthorized' nude photo shoot of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley will be front-page news in June.
Fierce Edie became friends with Chuck Wein, a graduate of Harvard, who saw 'a quality' in Sedgwick that he knew he had to harness. After receiving her trust fund at 21, the two moved to New York – with Wein becoming Sedgwick's selfappointed promoter. This 'quality' – a combination of her exuberant, original fashion flair and her charismatic personality brought about the introduction to emerging artist and cinematographer, Andy Warhol. Warhol was instantly entranced and the Sedgwick/ Warhol artistic 'love' affair began. From then on, Edie and Chuck became regulars at 'The Factory', Warhol's studio where his inner circle of quirky eccentrics would gather, and Edie proceeded to appear in many of Warhol's films including Kitchen and Beauty No.2. The latter, her breakout hit, brought Edie to the masses. People were taken by this nymph-esque girl with the extrovert, yet simultaneously cool, personality: all qualities reflected in her fashion. Sedgwick existed and bonded quite naturally with her circle of artists, bohemians and drug addicts while maintaining an omnipresent air of old money class – even when she was herself 'drugged up to
her eyeballs'. Regrettably, her fire was her eventual destruction. After breaking ties with Warhol (unfavour-
ably), Sedgwick tried to continue her success appearing in more films and fashion shoots but nothing could tempt her away from her drug addiction and in the end, after numerous hospitalisations and visits to rehab clinics, Sedgwick died of an accidental overdose. She was just 28. Despite her short life, Sedgwick's legacy is undeniable. A socialite, actress and model of her time but due to her ever current fashion influences, the title of style icon is the one that will continue to live on.
The rise of social media
Professor Brian Cox Because he makes physics sexy. (According to Briony) The new Life&Style editors Congrats to the lovely Lara Edwards and Sophie Cowling Fierce Festival A performance art festival held at different venues across Birmingham: see Arts for more details! Givenchy A/W 2011 Obviously we haven't even hit Spring proper, but this dark vision will undoubtedly be informing next seasons' trends. Dressing happy Stressed out? Overloaded? Get your hair did, pull on something that rocks and catwalk through the campus. Daphne Guinness tells it like it is Acerbic fashion madam calls VB an 'ugly pig'. Drama! Guild Awards Dresses It's our version of The Oscars and damn we're going to look hot! Lifestyle
Finished Japanese earthquake and tsunami Suddenly worrying about essay deadlines seems pretty unimportant. Lent Already. Struggling. Sophie Cowling Writer
The dramatic rise and prominence of social media over the last few years has been unprecedented. Whilst Facebook has gained its 600,000 million users steadily since it was first launched in 2004, the Twitter revolution although being created not too long after Facebook, has really taken force over the last couple of years. Until Monday I had completely (and naively) underestimated quite what Twitter was capable of. A talk from Matthew Caines and Nick Petrie – both ex-students of Birmingham University and ex-editors of Redbrick - on how to make it in Journalism radically changed this. Both graduating within the last couple of years with the decided intention not to pursue a postgraduate degree joined three other wannabe journalists to create a blog. They started the website 'Wannabe Hacks' in 2010, documenting the routes of five different writers into the profession with a regularly updated Twitter page running alongside the website. It is this career focused tweeting that led Petrie to be offered an interview and subsequently a job at the Guardian. Although, as Petrie admitted he 'was very lucky' to have been of-
fered such a desired job at a prestigious newspaper in this way, it is a route that has the potential to be the most successful way to enter the industry. When compared with the alternatives; laboriously drafting and re-drafting personalised application letters to specific companies or publications, sending a tweet directly to a person of authority within said company sounds like a much more desirable and efficient option. However to be successful in this way branding yourself is crucial. Blogging about something relevant is one of the most recommended as an instant source of reference to your work that can be easily found when potential employers Google you, or from a link on your Twitter page. Another way The Hacks suggested to create 'Brand You' is to buy the rights to your name as URL or by creating a 'Fan Page' for yourself on Facebook. While creating a 'Fan Page' for myself feels a little too soon (and slightly missing the concept of 'fan') I have hopped on the Twitter and blogging band wagon in the hope of being tweeted by Anna Wintour. Is social media really the next (or current) big thing in terms of securing high demand jobs? There really isn't time to be wasted wondering; #gettweetingand brandingyourselves!
Kate Middleton in Alexander McQueen rumours As much as we would love to see her walking down the aisle an exciting British design, we can't help but feel she'll go for something more traditional. The Kardashians They're everywhere. All the time. Give us a break. Beach body deadlines With the sun starting to make an appearance, we're reminded that it may be better to start on those lunges sooner rather than later. Multitasking celebrities Designer, singer, WAG, perfumer, actress, model... yes Victoria Beckham, we're looking at you. Guild Election Campaigns – Literally Finished! Well done to all who got involved, time to put your feet up.
Rebecca Jones
Redbrick
Fashion economy Katie Johnson Writer
With rising inflation and high unemployment accompanied by dismal job opportunities (a combination known well to those about to join the overflowing pool of unemployed graduates), the economic outlook for Britain is inarguably grim. However, while developed economies around the world struggle to recover from financial crisis, the fashion world appears to be revelling in hedonistic indulgences increasingly alien to the rest of us. The mood for Spring/Summer 2011 is decadent by all standards and, consistent with the industry's fickle nature, in sharp contrast to the ambience of Autumn/Winter 2010, where the prevalence of camel was almost unnerving (not least at Chloe, where the colour palette was limited to camel and grey). Be it Phoebe Philo's celebrated minimalism at Celine or Prada's long hemlines and kitten heels, reservation was undeniably rife, echoing consideration for the effects of financial crisis; no more so than at Alexander Wang, where models in black pinstripe suiting took direct inspiration from Wall Street bankers (albeit with the odd flash of midriff and space-age eyewear). With high neck lines, tweed and (disturbingly) sensible heels, these were collections of restraint, heritage and timeless style. For once, the fashion industry
I know what men like...
appeared to get thumbs up from all corners; the uncharacteristically muted colours (even by Autumn/ Winter standards) and the stifling of opulence ubiquitously associated with runway shows appeared to have satisfied fashionistas hungry for change, as well as the critics who continually cite the industry as insensitively extravagant. Although elements of minimalism remain for Spring/Summer 2011 (see Chloe, Calvin Klein), its presence is overshadowed by a return to opulence and luxury inspired by the hedonistic glamour of the 1970s; lavishly indulgent ensembles at Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton and intense hues of pink, orange and blue at Jil Sander and Prada reigned supreme. But is this embrace of all things luxurious inconsiderate of the financial squeeze? Should designers tone down the decadence in favour of a look complementary of recession? I think not. As a third year Economics student, it would seem rational to conclude such decadence as inefficient and unnecessary. However, the theatrical excitement of fashion delivers a much needed escape from the daily pes-
simistic overtones amassing from studying a subject constantly referencing decline. The allure lies in fashion's incontestable ability to transport the beholder to exotic locations; to indulge observers in ostentatious beauty and whimsical fantasies not experienced in the average 9-to-5. The fashion industry retains the illusive power to immerse observers in fantasy and imagination, offering refuge from the undeniably dull economic outlook. Considering what makes the fashion industry timelessly appealing, tying fashion to the economic climate would be of agonizing detriment. Furthermore, when taking account of price, the appeal of minimalism quickly dissolves; when an achingly plain leather t-shirt from Céline still costs an arm and a leg, simplicity seem far from considerate. Be it personal taste or escapism from economic gloom, I consider decadence and hedonistic indulgences will always reign supreme to back-to-basics simplicity. Even in spite of escapism, such bright and uplifting apparel certainly reflects a sense of optimism and hope for a more prosperous future, an attitude society could do well to replicate. After all, in times of hardship, do you really want your clothes to look as restrained as your finances?
Who is your girl/boy crush? Sarah Musgrove Writer
Which celebrity do you like – the MOST? Someone who you'd give your left leg and the rest of your loan to spend just one day with? It's non-sexual, it's completely in your head, but it's a love stronger than Jack and Rose's. We did a small, non-scientific survey to find out who's got your hearts afluttering… LADS – who's your guy crush? 'Always Jude Law. He has nice feminine features as well as a masculine jaw line, his accent is adorable, and he always plays the ladies' man in his films.' Ben, Biology and Politics. 'Antonia Banderas. If I could talk like him in the pub I'd definitely pull. He's got the sexiest voice of anyone on the planet.' Aaron, Physics. 'Joseph Gordon-Levitt. That guy can rock every single look, from tough guy to sensitive, and he's stylin' to boot. Or Grandmaster Flash.' dave, Vetinary Science. 'Barney Stinson from 'How I Met Your Mother'. I have never seen anyone else get so many girls,
Life&Style 23
18th March 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Editors – Briony Singh & Rob Lewis
or be so suited up.' Ben, Astrophysics. 'A Clint Eastwood/Harrison Ford type. Someone who would be all strong, silent and a bit grumpy, but really they're just hiding some deep, brooding intensity…' Tom, Biological Sciences. 'It's a toss-up. Mark Wahlberg if I want a man's man. Bradley Cooper does have beautiful eyes, though.' Chris, Biology. 'My man crush has to be Stephen Fry. Knowledge isn't just power, it's attractive. And that man is full of it.' Steve, Economics. 'I'm not sure if my boy crushes count because I'm gay, but if I could look like another guy it would probably be Brandon Flowers from The Killers, or Cesc Febregas. HOT!' Rob, English + MCS. “It has to be Johnny Depp. Or a rugby player like Lewis Moody; he's scary as hell.' Tom, Physics. LADIES – who's your girl crush? 'Emma Watson – the best Hermione imaginable, gets amazing grades and studies in America.' Livvy, TV + Film Studies.
Nadia Khan Writer
Most people won't remember when the buxom figure of Marilyn Monroe graced movie theatres around the world. Nowadays it seems that any girl bigger than a size 2 who tried to get a modelling contract would be turned away without question, and even then the size 2 girl would be expected to slim down to the absurd size 0 (that's a size 4 for us Brits). But for all the ritualistic dieting and painstaking exercise, is this really what guys find attractive? Almost every guy I know likes a girl with flesh on her bones, and rightly so. If someone is naturally slim, that's fine, but too many women complain about being fat, something which must grate on the nerves of every boyfriend in the country. One wrong move, such as hesitating before answering 'does my bum look big in this?' could be seen as implying she is fat and thus feeding her insecurity. This is a self-destructive mindset and certainly isn't healthy for existing or potential relationships. Celebrities like Rihanna with her Amazonian physique, and Christina Hendricks with her large breasts, are making normal women, well, normal again. What is sexy about an ironing board bum when J-Lo has become so famous for her voluptuous rear? I know feminists would rip me apart for focusing too much on the
importance of what men want in women. But isn't what guys want as important as what girls want? The simple fact of the matter is that, whilst lots of women desire to be a size zero, it is unhealthy and unattractive, even to other women. I know I cringe when I see girls walking around campus looking like they're about to be blown over by the wind. Men working out at the gym to impress girls can border on the obsessive but at least it's good for them. We need to get rid of this perception that stick-thin is a desirable body type. I think that women need to have far more self esteem in this day and age, and sometimes you need to believe your other half when he tells you, in true Bruno Mars style, 'you're amazing, just the way you are'.
Booty call BBM 'Mila Kunis. She's funny. And ridiculously good looking.' Gemma, English + MCS. 'I literally fancy Sienna Miller, Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson. Sienna's carefree, Natalie's elegant, and Scarlett's confident, sexy and curvy.' Hester, French and German. 'My girl crush at the moment is Rihanna. Did you see her legs in that cut-out dress on the X-Factor? 'Nuff said.' Nicki, Journalism. 'My girl crush is Jessie J, because her style is awesome cool and she's a breath of fresh air!' Sophie, French + MCS. 'Sue Sylvester because of her dominating attitude. Her one liners are the best thing I've ever heard and she inspires me to write a diary.' Sarah, Ancient History. 'Dianna Agron. She's intelligent (read her blog), seems lovely in real life, and I want to be her best friend. Also, she has perfect hair. I want that too.' Hannah, Social Policy.
Olivia Ovenden Writer
1.5 billion instant message conversations go on every day…it may have gone too far. Anyone with an iPhone or Blackberry will protest that they simply cannot live without Whatsapp or BBM; the evolution from the text message to a means of being constantly available for contact 24 hours of the day and 7 days of the week. The roots of it go way back to the days of msn where at 14 after last period physics we'd sit glued to msn messenger happily chatting to people in The Wirral who we didn't actually know but felt pressed to ask 'what u been up to?' Hours were wiled away and yet instead of growing out of it, we now have the grown up counterparts of them, people we meet in nightclubs and exchange pins with. It leads to endless mundane conversations about our days, the exact act we're carrying out at that moment and the cat's birthdays. We never stop to think that we would never have real life or even phone conversations with these people if we didn't feel obliged to due to our smart phones. Maybe the ad campaign should have just been 'Blackberry Messenger; for people you fancy, but not enough to give them your number.' The level of constant contact with people that has emerged from our social networking 'Facebook generation' means we can't have a real life conversation without someone having to continue a virtual one halfway through it. The wider impact is that it falsifies genuine relationships and puts making effort in a friendship down to typing a few forced words every
25 minutes. Bbm also has the bittersweet catch that the person you're speaking to can see whether you've read what they sent and vice versa, leaving you literally no room to say your phones at home charging and often feeling bombarded for an instant response. It so often feels like a popularity contest, for example overheard at Bambu 'I've got 234 contacts, they all added me', good for you love. There's additionally the dreaded broadcasts to worry about, which is basically just pillocks typing drivel and pressing 'send to all contacts' the worst of which I've seen is my 'friend' Christian sending 'booty call, whose interested?'… to 140 people, it must be nice to be picky. Technology that advances our communication with each other is no bad thing, but when it becomes a means to showing off and devalues instead of enhances our relationships and friendships we can only thing back to the golden days of calling our friends' house phones before 9 o'clock. Some conversations, (particularly most I've seen on Whatsapp and BBM) can definitely wait and when so much in life feels demanded of us this moment, friendships probably shouldn't have to be instant.
24 redbrickpaper.co.uk
18th March 2011
Music Single Reviews
Redbrick
TV On The Radio Bassist is diagnosed with lung cancer, but tour is to go ahead www.drownedinsound.com
The Wombats James Reevell meets the Scouse Trio
Britney Spears
Till The World Ends Today's stars have had increasing concerns about the supposed Mayan prediction that the world will come to an end, and soon. It seems appropriate then, that right after the Japanese earthquake, yet another scared celebrity has come forward with their plans ahead of the looming apocalypse. Till the World Ends begins much like some of her old tracks in the album Blackout, with a strong bass and a heavy dance pulse that runs throughout the song. It's catchier than her last track Hold it Against Me and will have everyone and anyone singing and humming along to it by the end of the month, whether they want to or not. Even if you're the type to mime shooting yourself after one outing to any club, you will know the words and move to the beat despite your mind telling you to resist. That's just the charm of Britney Spears. In a recent interview in Out magazine, she was asked whether there was any song she'd ever recorded that she regretted. Her response? 'No. All my songs are f***ing amazing.' Quite right, Brit. Quite right. Stefanie De Lucia
Arctic Monkeys Brick By Brick
The surprise release of Brick by Brick on YouTube last Friday – a teaser single from the forthcoming album has caused quite a fracas among fans of the Sheffield band. This is mainly down to the absence of Alex Turner's coveted vocals. Drummer Matt Helders asserts the latest evolution of Arctic Monkeys sound as he bellows 'I wanna build you up, I wanna break you down, I'm gonna reconstruct, I wanna feel your love.' Immediately those attuned to the band's usual lyrics will recoil in repulsion and confusion. Where are Turner's wittily layman lyrics that defined the band's past three albums? Sadly these never come. Sure, Alex Turner eventually chips in, but with the minimal contribution of hazily singing 'brick by brick', letting us know that he wants to 'rock and roll' and finally a mildly melodic 'ah' for good measure. The overall sound is dominated by much heavier sounding guitars. This single seems to go one step further than Humbug in revealing the influence of having Queen of the Stone Age's Josh Homme as producer. However whilst this snippet from upcoming Suck It And See proves disappointing, we will have to wait and see if this new sound remains permanent throughout the album. Amy Davidson
How are people reacting to the new songs? A lot of the new songs tend to be a bit slower. There's obviously up tempo songs, but we even have a ballad in the set. It's interesting to see how people react to it. A lot of fans like to go mental [mimes a faintly camp mosh] but with some of the new slow songs, they're kind of like a little confused, not really knowing what to do. And then other people are just loving it, with their hands in the air. I think it makes the set work dynamically much better than it used to. Do you feel under pressure with the new second album? Yeah definitely. [Looking worried, and strangely aged.] It hasn't been an easy process, really hard work with a lot of pressure from the label. We have a lot fans who rely on us and I hope they like it because it is quite different. It took us nearly two years, writing like 35 songs.
We'd constantly keep writing all these songs, and the label would come back to us with 'it's good, but its not great'. They pushed us, which was good thing, but obviously it was a proper mind-f**ker for us as well. We would have released the album probably a year ago, or even earlier. It would have been a completely different album, I think it would have still been a really good album but I'm glad they pushed us. What did the discarded early songs sound like? The first few songs were really heavy, really angry songs. Then the next set were sort of more electroey. I think it was more a stage of getting away from the first record, and having fun with music we didn't know how to make. Pushing ourselves into these two extreme directions, and then somehow going back to our starting point with all these new influences.
Album Reviews
Elbow
Build A Rocket Boys!
9
So does success come with a good rider? Lots of drinks. [Gesturing to a fridge filled with various beers.] Hummus is important. Sun dried tomatoes, gluten-free bread, smoothies, yoghurts, salad, apple juice, crisps. Lots of cheese, ham, pastrami. We're really, really tame these days. I think it's just because we are getting old. What's it like to be hated? I don't really know, I'm aware of it. I don't really know why, I don't really know where the hate comes from. I guess its better to be really hated than people not really bothering. Obviously people who like us, they are all legends. We tend to have quite a strange crowd, but in a quirky way. But they're all legends and really important to us. I do go read YouTube comments, so I am aware of it.
Would Joy Divison dance to your songs? Actually Peter Hook played with us. He came on stage, and did the bass sounding like New Order. He really likes us, he actually reposted the video for when we did Let's Dance to Joy Division on the Joy Division Myspace saying like check this out. What would you do with a red brick? It's funny you should say that because someone last night in Leeds was walking around our bus for ages. And he basically had this brick, I don't know if it was a red one, which he started slamming into the window trying to break into the bus. He didn't realise there were people on it, and the bus driver jumped out and was like 'WHAT THE F**K!' So he shat himself and legged it. So we are avoiding bricks at the moment.
Live Reviews Iron & Wine Town Hall 10/03/2011
Alexander Blanchard Matt Saull Critic
I've always felt myself rooted within Elbow's music. It is ten years since the Manchester five-piece released Asleep in the Back, and in that time I feel like I have grown up with them. Any Day Now and Puncture Repair both rank on my Desert Island discs, and Jesus is a Rochdale Girl is most surely an homage to my mother, herself hailing from the Mancunian climes. To me, and for many other music lovers, the announcement of a new Elbow release is as eagerly anticipated as the news that Justin Bieber has been conscripted to the role of Col. Gaddafi's bodyguard, or that Bob Geldof has been hauled down from his high-horse. The perennially critically acclaimed band have always had a loyal following, and since the Mercury winning Seldom Seen Kid commercial success has also followed. It was, therefore, the difficult fifth album syndrome of how to follow what has come before? Guy Garvey has stated that this is an album that takes Elbow back
to their own roots, it is an introspective look-back on their careers thus far. It therefore, is hard to see where Elbow have deviated and innovated with Build A Rocket Boys!; Jesus is a Rochdale Girl was written just after Asleep in the Back's release, a fact easy to see with the stripped back sound endemic of the band's first record. That said, it doesn't really matter when it's one of the best songs a British band will produce this year. The album seamlessly blends the best parts of the prior four albums, but with an added depth given by the maturity evident in Potter and Garvey's song writing. Lippy Kids could feature in a songwriting textbook, with its single note drone throughout being built on by soaring vocal melodies and instrumental harmonies. This Love is another stand-out track, featuring the Halle Children's Choir to a majestic effect. What sets Elbow apart from the rest is the lyrical brilliance of Garvey, who refers to Elbow's career as 'Nothing to be proud of and nothing to regret, all of that to make as yet.'
Critic
Opening with Boy With A Coin, lead singer Samuel Beam won a smattering of cheers and applause as his sonorous and morose voice sauntered the steady line between the beautifully cathartic and the near-depressing, 'A boy with a coin he found in the weeds/with bullets and pages of trade magazines'. It was an opening that, in hindsight, was symptomatic of the whole night as Iron & Wine's resonant energy grew in contrast with the inertia of a largely drab audience. The performance – supported by Martin Moore, an artist who has situated himself on the tender side of beautiful – demonstrated Iron & Wine's steady shift from folk to a sort of 'folk-funk' with songs from their 2004 album (Our Endless Numbered Days) and 2007 album (The Shepherd's Dog) assuming the character of this latter style. It was perhaps this that was, seemingly, most disheartening for their Birmingham fans. Subsequent talk of the gig centred around the 'When Dylan went electric' thesis – a cliché perhaps, but no less true for being so –
and the distance elapsed between Beam's four-track days of The Creek Drank the Cradle and their current style, experimenting with a bigger sound and a supposed loss of 'intimacy' brought about by the presence of an expanded eightpiece band – who, incidentally, were exceptional with female vocals and a saxophonist. And the audience who, for the majority of the set, were hushed and little more than inanimate, only showed their enjoyment through the requisite applause. Of this, Beam occasionally conveyed his gentle frustration, saying, 'we'll get through this'. There is something to be said of a fan-base that expects an act to remain static in style and character, and become irritated when they do not. The night, on the whole, was heart-warming and moving, with Iron & Wine's continual flux between acoustic and electric, and from morose to upbeat (the softly Lion's Mane to bluesy Freedom Hangs Like Heaven) finding a brilliant synergy with the Town Hall's atmosphere and acoustics. Iron & Wine excelled, unfortunately it was the Birmingham fans who let them down.
Redbrick
18th March 2011
Sport
redbrickpaper.co.uk
Lacrosse girls earn well-deserved promotion
25
Read how the second team secured their elevation, p26
Jitsu: Fighting for the right causes James Robinson gets to know the ins and outs of a lesser known sports club, but one that has seen much success.
So what exactly is jitsu?
Jitsu is one of the most interesting clubs at the University of Birmingham and they recently achieved much success at the nationals physical and technical challenge enjoyed by Abrahams is not the only thing on offer, as a bubbly Waldon confirmed, 'the social aspect is the best thing, we go to the cinema, bowling and the pub, once a term there are even national socials'. This in itself should entice enough and indeed friendship is not in short supply at the club, the welcoming company in which I was kept certainly reaffirmed this. Luke was quick to point out why he enjoyed jitsu, 'the fitness benefits are insanely good and it's more interesting than running on a treadmill'. It may come as no surprise that all three were in good shape. Waldon reflected on the intrinsic aspects of training, 'jitsu has given me confidence and awareness; it's helped me come out of my shell'. The term 'friendly giant' came to mind when Jones further explained why he enjoyed the club, 'some of our members joined
The Week In Numbers
12
Aidy Boothroyd was sacked by Coventry City this week to become the twelth Championship manager to part company with their club this season.
500,000
2
Total prize money on offer for this year's running of the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
Brazilian duo Rafael and Fabio da Silva have two goals each to their name in their fledgling Manchester United careers. Bizarrely, they each have one against Arsenal and one against Wigan!
8 19
years since England last won four of their Five/ Six Nations games in the same year. A great sign of the improvement under Martin Johnson. Pakistan have reviewed more umpire decisions than any other nation in cricket. Despite this, they have only been successful four times.
because they had been mugged; they wanted to learn self defence. It's great to be able to help in enhancing confidence and ensuring protection' there really is a sense of community about the club and everyone is there to help. Onto training and Abrahams enthusiastically commented, 'the warm-up is rigorous!' Something told me that he enjoys the hard physical work. The warm up focuses on raising the heart rate and practicing rolling and landing, to ensure safety later on. 'Then we practice throws and even have weapons training' added the enthusiastic Waldon. However, getting involved in Jitsu is not about being the next Bruce Lee, Jones insists it is designed to help 'our sensei focuses on real world application, like how to break free if you are being choked'. Whilst jitsu itself dates back centuries, there is no doubt
that the skills learnt are of use in the modern world. Not only is the jitsu team enjoyable and sociable, it is also successful. As Birmingham students we can take pride in the team's success at the recent national championships, Abrahams humbly informed me, 'Karen and I managed to get gold medals which was great, the whole team did well and it was an impressive turnout'. Jones seemed particularly proud of the team and noted how Abrahms was perhaps downplaying his skills, 'Calvin is one of only two guys in the region to have a yellow III belt, it's the best first belt you can get'. The whole vibe and atmosphere around the group was great, the team came first and none were interested in big egos, which is refreshing to see. If jitsu sounds interesting to you then try it, captain Jones insists the club welcomes new re-
The Week In Quotes 'They have betrayed me and they have betrayed the French national team shirt. They are good guys but cursed with what is obviously cowardice.'
Harsh words from French rugby coach Marc Lievremont after their shock defeat to Italy
'We know the reasons why there are so many games and they are purely financial. Maybe one day common sense will come into it as well.'
Graeme Swann on the fixture pile up that has been blamed for England's poor one-day cricket performances
'We can all sit there dreaming about winning stuff but it is about the process. We are not talking about the Grand Slam, we are talking about how we beat Ireland.'
England rugby coach Martin Johnson is focusing on the task in hand as England have the chance to claim their first Grand Slam since 2003
'Pandev? He scored a goal that Maradona would have been proud of at a time that has not been so good for him. I can't take any credit for this.'
Inter coach Leonardo gives Goran Pandev all the respect after his crucial last-minute goal which knocked Bayern Munich out of Europe
cruits, 'everyone can take part, all sizes and genders, anyone.' It's for people of all fitness ranges and you don't need to have taken part in other sports before to enjoy it. 'It's more about subtlety and technique than power'. The group all pointed to one of the black-belts in the club as evidence, 'she is only 5 ft tall but her nickname, mini-god, represents how good she is' comments Abrahams. When pressed as to whether the group had any interesting and amusing stories about their time in the club, they gave plenty and I would certainly recommend a visit to the club to get involved. The jitsu club offers a great opportunity on many levels. The physical benefits are great, you will learn new skills and train in an environment shaped by etiquette and respect. On the mat you are fighters, off the mat you are friends. For more info visit uobjitsu.co.uk.
The Redbrick Sport Quiz 1) Which controversial figure currently holds the record for the most home runs in Major League Baseball history? 2) Which nation has won the most Olympic gold medals for field hockey? 3) Who holds the British world record for 100m hurdles? 4) Roger Federer equalled a record for 2007 when he won his fifth consecutive Wimbledon Championships. Who was the first to do this? 5) Which English football club has had been promoted/relegated from the top flight most times? 1, Barry Bonds 2, India 3, Colin Jackson 4, Bjorn Borg 5, Birmingham City
The typical connotations of martial arts: precise technique, acrobatic moves, respect and... pain? You can't blame me for the slight apprehension I felt prior to meeting Luke Jones, Calvin Abrahams and Karen Waldon, three members of the University jitsu club. My mind began taunting me, what if they thought I was being rude? Would they go Jackie Chan style on me? Indeed upon meeting Jones, the 6 ft 3 club captain, my anxiety seemed justified. However after just seconds of conversation I was proved wrong, as the trio really epitomised the kindness and sociability that the jitsu club is all about. It was intriguing to discover why the group got involved with jitsu, 'I'm involved in MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) and cage fighting, jitsu offered the chance to broaden my skill set and make new friends' Abrahams commented. Yet the
Tom Flathers
Jitsu (or jiu jitsu) is a martial art based on traditional styles developed in Japan. Its origins go back over 700 years to the medieval ages, where the efficient fighters known as the samurai enhanced and refined their skills based on the art. In literal translation 'jitsu' means 'art' or 'technique' and the sport encompasses techniques including kicking, striking, kneeing, throwing, choking, joint locking, holding and the use of weapons. A key principle of jitsu is using the aggressor's energy to their own disadvantage and those who teach the precise techniques stress the need for defensive use only: the avoidance of combat is preferable.
26 Sport
Sport Thoughts Retiring Redbrick Sport editor Simon Hall considers whether tradition is still enough to keep sports fans and players interested...
18th March 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick
Editors – James Phillips, Simon Hall & Sam Price
Promotion party for lacrosse
With the quarter finals of FA Cup taking place last weekend, a debate which has plagued football in recent years reared its ugly head once more: Why has football's oldest knockout competition lost its 'magic' and what can the sport's governing bodies do about it? While I'm not going to argue over these points specifically, I do think that they raise an important sporting debate regarding the appreciation for tradition in sport in the modern era.
The girls celebrate after a dominating performance secured their promotion to the Midlands 1st division Women's Lacrosse
The FA Cup has slowly been declining to the point where it is now compared to the League Cup in terms of its competitive appeal. This is not befitting of a tournament that dates back as far as 1872. While the competition may not have quite as poor a reputation as that of the League Cup just yet, its deterioration gives an indication of the modern football fan's indifference to the noble traditions of a bygone era. This begs the question; is there a place for tradition and history in sport any more? Many Premier League managers have stated that they would take survival over an historic FA Cup victory. If even those directly involved in the game don't treat competitions steeped in history, such as the FA Cup, with the respect they deserve, then why should the average football fan be inclined to? Equally, we now see more and more cricketers turning away from test match cricket in favour of the riches offered by the Twenty20 format. Take the sickening attitude of Australian fast bowler Shaun Tait as an example. He is a talented cricketer who has retired from test cricket long before the age of 30 to focus on the shorter form of the game. He has gone on record saying he sees test cricket dying out and, unfortunately, this flagrant disregard and disrespect for sport's past is a symptom of the times. Sport has become big business and in business, money talks.
Nobody can predict what the future holds for the FA Cup and test match cricket but unless sportsmen, women and fans begin to appreciate the years of tradition and heritage that are becoming endangered then the future looks extremely bleak. After all, what is sport without tradition?
Birmingham 2nds
26
Northampton 1sts
0
Joel Lamy Sport Reporter
Birmingham women's lacrosse seconds sealed promotion to the Midlands 1st division with a crushing 26-0 victory over Northampton 1sts at the Munrow Sports track. In as one-sided a game as you will see, five girls were able to bag hattricks, with special mention going to Sara Shine who scored five times despite being off for the third quarter. After defeating Nottingham Trent in the last match, coach Ellie Sayers was extremely confident going into the match and said, 'I'd be disappointed if we didn't win', as the last time the sides had met, Birmingham had triumphed 26-2. The tone was set for the fol-
lowing hour as the hosts scored inside the first minute, courtesy of Carlie Cheall. Within the first ten minutes, Brum had already racked up a 7-0 lead and Shine had bagged herself a hat-trick, courtesy of some clinical finishing both left and right-handed. She was soon followed by Eve Alexander who was able to score twice straight from the draw with the Northampton defence unable to lay a stick on her as she ran past. Just before half-time, with the score at 11-0, the visitors managed their first shot at goal, but were denied by the popular Rio Brookes Gibbs, who received a massive cheer for her effort. In order to reaffirm their dominance, the home side went on to score three more times before the break, including a third hat-trick of the half (this time for Cheall) and another lefthanded goal for Shine. Despite promotion now being guaranteed, there was no let-up
from Birmingham, who started the second-half with a flowing counter-attack from defence to attack; captain Meg Lister passing to Alex McKenzie-Smith who finished the move off. With the result a formality, the home side tried to get as many players as possible to score. Goalkeeper Gibbs, who had been moved up front, had a goal disallowed for running into the circle, then hit the post before eventually slotting home to the delight of her teammates. Lister, who is the team's top scorer, had been unable to find the back of the net, but she made up for lost time by scoring a rapid hat-trick (soon after Keri Farrow had netted hers). As the final whistle sounded to end the torture for Northampton, the Birmingham girls began to celebrate their promotion. It was an emotional day as many of the team were leaving at the end of the season and for Sayers, it was just re-
Tom Flathers
ward for a squad who have worked hard all year. She said the match was 'a perfect way to finish a great season,' a view re-iterated by defender and third year Ancient and Medieval History student, Tor Drummond, who captured the jubilant mood when she joked, 'I think it's safe to say we are the best team in the world.' Hopefully the girls can build on this by winning the BUCS trophy next week and secure the perfect send-off for the members of the team who are leaving at the end of the year.
Magic Number
5
of the Brum girls scored hat-tricks in this match.
Pack of Wolves deliver sucker punch Men's Football
Birmingham 2nds
1
Wolverhampton 1sts 2 Joshua Reynolds Sport Reporter
'A tale of what might have been' is perhaps the most appropriate way to sum up the University of Birmingham men's football second team's afternoon at Metchley this Wednesday, as they were defeated by the University of Wolverhampton's first team by the narrowest of margins and indeed, the most fortuitous of goals. Prior to kick-off, Brum captain Jarred Butler stated that a loss could potentially be 'catastrophic' for the home side whose fate is now uncertain, with a possible relegation play-off looming. Despite only being one point ahead of the hosts before the match got under way, Wolverhampton's victory sees them rise to a second place finish in the Midlands 3A league, while their matchday opponents now find themselves in a perilous position at the wrong end of the table.
The visitors were certainly the quickest out of the traps, and it was evident from early on that the immense physical presence of Wolverhampton forwards Obassy and Kyle Minto was going to prove very difficult for the Birmingham back four to deal with. After linking up well to create the first chance of the game two minutes in, four minutes later the two strikers combined once more to score the away side's first goal. Obassy used his strength to fend off the opposition and get a shot away and Minto on hand to slot in the rebound after James Sherry had saved the initial shot. Fortunately for the home side, Wolverhampton were unable to extend this lead, despite threatening efforts from Tom Lankton and Obassy. As the half progressed, Birmingham gradually felt their way into the game, with Alan Haine and Adam Farnworth turning the screws in the midfield. On 25 minutes the home team were extremely unlucky not to draw level, after Scott Roche played in Joel Dawson who was unable to find a decisive finish, before Butler hit the post in the immediate aftermath. Never-
theless Birmingham were eventually rewarded for their persistence when the captain headed home following an in-swinging free kick from Dave Heaton. The half saw a plethora of chances for both teams (and even some handbags following a high boot from Wolverhampton skipper Alex Butler) alas the game remained deadlocked at the break. The second half was in places an end to end affair, with one team pressing forward only to be subsequently hit on the counter-attack. The early goings saw Dawson fire a curling shot from just outside of the box which had 'goal' written all over it, yet somehow Steve Wibley in the Wolverhampton goal managed to tip the ball wide. Roche too seemed destined to get on the score sheet when he was one-onone with the goalkeeper, but he couldn't quite get the ball out of his feet to shoot, with the poor condition of the pitch perhaps being a factor. It was a fine display on the whole for Brum in the second half, but they were often unable to find the decisive final ball, and 15 minutes from time, they paid the
ultimate penalty when Wolverhampton substitute Ben Howarth's lofted cross somehow found the back of the net. This was a sucker punch from which Brum could not recover, despite switching to a 4-3-3 formation in the closing stages, and having what looked like a very strong case for a penalty at the death when Farnworth appeared to be pulled down after darting past Marcus Shaw in the area. At the final whistle the delight and relief of the visitors was in stark contrast with the immense frustration of the hosts, home captain Butler describing the game as having 'summed up [their] season'. That said, there is undeniable quality within the Birmingham contingent, and should a relegation playoff befall them, they will be no push over for any team they face.
Magic Number number of 14 The corners in the
game at Metchley.
Redbrick
Editors – James Phillips, Simon Hall & Sam Price
This week in... 2007 England cricketer Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff was stripped of the vice-captaincy and dropped from the team after going on an alcohol-fuelled 4am frolic on a pedalo at the team hotel hours after England's defeat to New Zealand. 1999 Frank Maloney, coach of boxer Lennox Lewis made the audacious claim that Lewis would have beaten Muhammad Ali. He said, ' Ali was too small to compete against today's heavyweights.' Guess we'll never know.
Couldn't make it up A 61-year-old man from Devon won £1.4 million from a £2 accumulator at Exeter racecourse. He then returned to his job as a plumber the next day and insists he is still planning on down-sizing his two bedroom house. He also forgot his wife's birthday in the excitement. Non-league football outfit Long Melford Essex were at the centre of controversy when their opponents Saffron Walden Town accused them of shrinking their goal frames. The frames had allegedly been lowered by five inches yet ironically, it was the home side who hit the post twice in the match.
Sport 27
18th March 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
This week's University of Birmingham sport news...in brief London Marathon Preparation UBSport are hosting two sessions to help prepare for the London Marathon. The first on 24th March and the second on 5th April in the Munrow Lecture Theatre. See the UBSport website for more details.
Important win for American Football
B.R.U.M Cup rugby on Campus
Our all-conquering American Football team, the Birmingham Lions, recovered well from their recent defeat to Loughborough. They defeated the Newcastle Raiders 22-20 in the playoffs.
Last Saturday, the B.R.U.M cup saw Law take on Medics 2s at the Bournbrook pitch. For a photo gallery and report see the sports section, www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick Sport Recommends... Opta sports on Twitter For unbelievably comprehensive statistical gems, laced with a dry sense of humour, follow Opta on twitter. Optajoe for English football, Optajim for other sports and there are others for European and USA football. www.zonalmarking.net If you're interested in the tactical side of football then look no further than this excellent website for analysis of all the big matches. Excellent diagrams add to the top articles.
Wembley beckons... Manchester City, in their first FA Cup Semi-Final since 1981, have been drawn against bitter rivals Manchester United. To end their 35-year trophy drought Roberto Mancini's men are going to have to repeat what they did back in 1926 when they beat the Red Devils at the same stage. That year they lost the final...to Bolton Wanderers.
Classic Goal...
Heroes...
Tony Pulis & Owen Coyle
The Stoke City and Bolton Wanderers managers have built on the league success they have had with their respective clubs by reaching this year's FA Cup Semi-Finals. Both teams have been punching above their weight recently and now the two go head to head at Wembley next month.
Italy Rugby Team
A top performance from the likes of Sergio Parisse, Mirco Bergamasco and Andrea Masi saw the Italians beat France in the Six Nations for the first time ever.
and Villains... Matuzalem
Youtube search: Delap stunner These days Rory Delap is better knows for his deadly long throws but in the 2003-04 season when playing for Southampton, the Irishman scored an incredible acrobatic volley which Tottenham stopper Kasey Keller had no chance of saving.
Picture of the week
Lazio's Brazilian midfielder was guilty of a horrendous stamp on Roma captain Francesco Totti in the hot-headed Rome derby at the weekend.
Arsene Wenger
His refusal to improve his defence and goalkeeping options in the January transfer window are starting to look costly as his team have crashed out of three tournaments in two weeks and 41-year-old retired goalkeeper Jens Lehmann is heading back to the Emirates.
Video of the Week
Epic Meal Time youtube channel is quite horrendous, but horrendously entertaining. The Black Legend – Epic Dessert Time will make you laugh, but never want to eat a chocolate crepe again... http://www.youtube.com/user/ EpicMealTime#p/u/10/BaKcl0Qg13o
Did you know? The shotput used by male athletes weighs 16 lbs., the same as the maximum weight for a bowling ball. The first Monopoly was based on real streets and locations around Atlantic City.
A Taste of Spring in UoB by Yuxuan Zhan – 06/03/2011 The chilly temperature in recent weeks may have failed to remind us of the tender season, but thanks to the flower field in front of the Main Library, a taste of spring on campus is still on offer. Send your pictures of the week to pow@redbrickonline.co.uk
A group of rhinos is called a crash.
On this day 1953 – An earthquake hits western Turkey, killing 250. 1989 – In Egypt, a 4,400-year-old mummy is found nearby the Pyramid of Cheops. 1992 – White South Africans vote overwhelmingly in favour, in a national referendum, to end the racist policy of Apartheid.
28 Sport
Sport
Redbrick
18th March 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Editors – James Phillips, Simon Hall & Sam Price
Spotlight on Jitsu Redbrick Sport get to grips with yet another University sport club, this time meeting Jitsu captain Luke Jones and his clubmates, p25
Late heartbreak at Bournbrook
Men's Rugby Union
Birmingham 1sts
18
Nottingham 2nds
21
Joseph Audley Sport Reporter
A large crowd gathered at the Bournbrook rugby pitch to witness Nottingham seconds steal the win from Birmingham firsts right at the death. The home side lead for the majority of the game but never looked convincing and ended up paying the ultimate price through a last minute try from the visitors. Birmingham's back line came out stronger in the first half and managed to keep Nottingham at bay as they struggled to find many gaps. It was clear from the start that both teams knew this was an important game, Birmingham being second in the league and Nottingham a close third. The visitors spread the ball well and hovered dangerously near the try line within the first ten minutes but the home side were able to prevent any meaningful penetration. Brum were hitting Nottingham well but failed to hold on to the ball after turning it over, resulting in many line outs. Although Stefan Cooksammy was making some good runs down the left hand side, the home side did not have much to offer in the way of attack in the early stages. The solid defence made up for this however, and the teams cancelled each other out until the deadlock was broken 20 minutes in. Ben Farr swung the ball back to Matt Smith who spotted Will Knight wide open on his outside. Knight collected the ball and easily made it past the try line to make it 5-0. The try was not converted and Nottingham came roaring back at the leaders straight from the kick, pressurising Birmingham whose defence did extremely well to contain it. Nottingham were having trouble pushing past the back line and were allowing the ball to be turned over too easily. After half an hour the score was still 5-0 and it appeared to be a very tight game with both teams giving little away. A Brum attack came right to the line resulting in Farr squeez-
Sky high: Nottingham outstretch Brum in the line-out on the way to a last-gasp win ing it over to give the home side their second try of the day. This time Farr was able to convert the try, making the score 12-0. For the remainder of the half Nottingham offered very little but resisted further pressure from the leaders.
Just before half time the visitors were awarded a penalty and easily converted it to reduce the deficit to 12-3. The home side went in at half time fairly confident as they had let very little slip and had produced the goods further up the field.
Tom Flathers
However, Nottingham came out stronger in the second half and won a penalty almost straight from the kick. This was converted and the score became a not so comfortable 12-6. Birmingham sat back and didn't press too far forward for
large periods in the second half, allowing the away side to take control. Much of the game was being played in the middle of the field as yet again Brum struggled to get a hold of the ball but Nottingham were finding it hard to press. A scramble in the middle resulted in a mistake by the home defence which led to the ball getting kicked to the try line. Many raced to the ball but it was deemed that a Nottingham player had reached it first and had it under control. The try was converted, taking the score to 12-13. This was the first time that Birmingham had trailed in the game and it became clear that they were well aware of this. The hosts smashed into Nottingham straight away and gained a penalty which Farr converted to put Birmingham 15-13 up, with the visitors having led for only two minutes. Brum made good progress up the left hand side soon after this and were awarded with another penalty which the ubiquitous Farr scored, taking their lead to 18-13. However, again Nottingham stepped up the pace and began to push the leaders to the wire. This paid off with 15 minutes remaining as the score was pulled back to 18-16 by way of a penalty. The home side were having trouble getting bodies back and were often penalised for offside. With little time remaining the leaders were trying to hold on to the ball but were committing too many men to one side and were caught short on the left. A last minute burst from the visitors resulted in a try, taking the score to 18-21 to Nottingham. The try was not converted but it didn't matter as the hosts had no time to get up the pitch. Birmingham captain Edd McKee was gutted but still hopeful for his team, 'It was just one of those games really, we didn't have our heads on for the last period. It's just unlucky I guess, we're still hoping for promotion as we remain clear second.' Kicking success
Birmingham
3/5
Nottingham
3/6
BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER BEFORE...12 PAGES...ALL IN COLOUR...EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE OF THE BUCS CHAMPIONSHIPS
INSIDE Get your fight on! A close look at martial Jitsu - James Robinson talks to Luke Jones, Calvin Abrahams and Karen Waldon