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Drivingthe the vehicles of knowledgeboar into the pedestrians of your mind Wednesday 21st October, 2015 Est. 1973 | Volume 38 | Issue 2 Two Warwick students hit by cars on campus this week

INSIDE: Black History Month Special Features Lifestyle Science & Tech Games & Sport The Warwick Rowers: uncovered Don’t touch my f*king ‘fro The 2015 Nobel Prize Can professional gaming Page 13 Page 14 Page 28 be a sport? Page 37

Registered charity: 1098294 EmployEr To book your place, sign up via our website: prEsEntation teachfirst.org.uk/graduates 2 novEmbEr | 6:30pm rootEs building Toib Olomowewe Teaches: Business Studies

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Black History Month Adblockers E-sports? Iceland in pictures Pullout (p. 16-17) Science & Tech (p.29) Games & Sport (p. 37) Travel (p. 27)

This issue is jam packed with some fantastic An article that really grabbed me in this issue If you think you know where gaming ends As always there’s a whole wealth of journalis- content and really interesting news. Howev- was ‘Adblocker: harmless timesaver or con- and sport begins, prepare to think again when tic goodness in this week’s paper, but the one er, my pick for this issue is the Black History tent killer?’ in our Science & Tech section. you read this week’s collab between Games that really caught my eye was Tessa Schiller’s Month pullout and coverage over the past few We’re constantly bombarded by adverts on- and Sport. Games writer Willem Garnier ar- piece about Iceland in the Travel section. I weeks. There has been a lot of conversation line, and I have always thought of adblocks gues that the global scale competitive gaming had no idea anyone even lived there, let alone about the relevance of BHM, and whether as a life-saver, but the article raises the very has reached makes it a genuine contender to the small island being host to things like it is still necessary in the modern university interesting question of whether or not it is in traditional sport, while Sport’s Sam Nugent roads and buildings and acceptance of ho- landscape. We are proud to support the work our collective interest to use them. takes the position that virtual competition mosexuality. Apparently it’s all been buzzing that has been done featuring everything from Bethan McGrath can only ever be a poor imitation of the ‘real’ up there for quite some time – I’ve definitely Akala to panel debates based around the idea physical contest. It’s made me think about been missing out! And if, like me, you don’t of ethnic empowerment. Special thanks go What were your favourite how we make distinctions between a ‘sport’ even know what Iceland even looks like, to Amber Lascelles, Nia-Cerise Conteh and stories from this issue? and a ‘game’, and even question whether there’re some great photos; the one of the Mems Ayinla for their continued support. Tweet: @WarwickBoar reality and its virtual representation have glacier in particular melted even my icy, cold Hiran Adhia #BoarPicks merged into the same thing... Jake Mier heart. Sam Evans

Editor-in-Chief Hiran Adhia NEWS Connor O’Shea & FILM Kambole Campbell [email protected] [email protected] Arthi Nachiappan [email protected] Tom Hemingway Joe Lester Deputy Editors-in-Chief Sam Evans Matt Barker GAMES Ali Jones [email protected] Bethan McGrath Alex Ball [email protected] Jacob Mier Lily Pickard MUSIC Stephen Paul & Sub-editors Hannah Campling COMMENT Nour Rose Chehab [email protected] Jess Mason [email protected] Halimah Manan [email protected] Ollie Ship

FEATURES Blessing Mukosha Park TV Carmella Lowkis Director of Business Harshini Singh [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] LIFESTYLE Elizabeth Pugsley SCIENCE & TECH Selina-Jane Spencer Head of Sales Lauren Garvey & [email protected] [email protected] John Butler [email protected] Pim Pearce FINANCE Alexander Shaw TRAVEL Jack Prevezer Head of Marketing Iris Du [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] ARTS Sophie Dudhill PHOTOGRAPHY Shruti Dayal Head of Distribution Simran Thakral [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] BOOKS Lucy Skoulding SPORT Shingi Mararike Head of Apps Kate Mant [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

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Editors: Arthi Nachiappan & Connor O’Shea News [email protected] Two Warwick students hit by cars on campus last week

that she had not left enough time Connor O’Shea to cross to the central reservation in the face of the oncoming traffic.” The accident follows the inci- A second student was hit by a car dent earlier in the week when an- on Warwick’s campus on Thurs- other female student was hit by a day 15 October. car outside the Rootes Grocery The student was hit by the car on Store. Gibbet Hill Road, by the Warwick That incident also happened as a Business School (WBS) building, result of the student not paying at- shortly before 6pm last Thursday. tention to the road as she was using However, the student has admit- her mobile phone. ted that the accident happened as The accidents happened on she had not left sufficient time to some of Warwick’s new ‘shared cross the road safely. space’ roads, which have no clear Three police cars and two ambu- road markings. lance vehicles attended the scene. The idea of these shared space The student has been taken to roads is that there is no priority for hospital, but it is believed that her any one group, be it pedestrians or injuries are not life-threatening. motorists. Peter Dunn told the Boar that This lack of priority is said to re- traffic was probably moving slower sult in drivers reducing their speed. than the 20mph speed limit on the However, following the two in- road and said: “Queues were build- cidents, students and Sabbatical of- ing.” ficers are calling for the University He added: “The driver was not to review the ‘shared space’ roads on “Action is needed now” at fault. The student said herself campus. Isaac Leigh, SU president ‘There needs to be a zebra crossing’

Billy Perrigo The new road works under a tive action is needed now, not re- He added: “We are still complet- #1 priority, and members of our ‘shared space road system’, where active action after an accident has ing changes to the street furniture Officer Team are taking this issue road signs and markings have been happened.” around there which includes those up with the University as a matter Earlier last week, a woman was deliberately removed from the road The day after the accident, additional signs.” of urgency. hit by a car on University Road on in favour of “negotiation over pri- members of Security were seen When asked whether the Uni- “In the meantime, we urge stu- Tuesday 13 October. ority”. putting up speed limit signs, al- versity would review the new sys- dents once again to please be vigi- The woman was taken to hos- Before the redesign, there was though when questioned, said they tem in light of the accident, Mr lant when crossing this road.” pital as a precaution, but was dis- a zebra crossing very close to the had been ordered 3 weeks ago. Se- Dunn said: “The accident was Third-year English student Ali charged with only minor injuries. scene of the accident. curity were also seen performing caused by inattention on crossing a Jones commented: “It looks and According to the University, the In a statement made before the speed checks on cars. road with a close oncoming vehicle feels like a pedestrian area. Every- girl was at fault as she had been us- accident happened, Students’ Un- According to Peter Dunn, Di- which would have had the same re- one who is not a first year is used ing her phone at the time. ion (SU) President Isaac Leigh said rector of Press and Policy at the sult on any road.” to not having cars coming up and But this accident came only in “Without a zebra crossing near the University: “The road has been After the accident, the SU re- down that stretch. the second week of term-time since new plaza area, there is no trigger a 20mph road for some years and leased a statement, they said: “Stu- He urged: “There needs to be a the redesign of University Road. for drivers to slow down… Proac- there are signs already saying this.” dent safety on campus is the SU’s zebra crossing.” theboar.org/News | @BoarNews | NEWS 4 4 News theboar.org A post-racial society? Ana Clara Paniago

Warwick Anti-Racism Society (WARS) and the Students’ Union organised their first coffee brunch as part of Black History Month (BHM) on Monday 12 October. The session posed the question: Do we live in a post-racial society? More than 100 students listened to the discussion and nodded in agreement to the points being made. ‘The New Black’ The two panellists were War- wick Law graduate Yomi Adegoke and Chidi Amadi, part of Think Tank at King’s College London, a student-led organisation that Warwick talks police provides ideas on specific political problems. Chidi has appeared on BBC Question Time and had met with brutality against ethnic David Cameron earlier this year. “I am not against white people. I have many white minorities friends.” Chidi Amadi Gerard Jones have a legal obligation to specify Britain is very good at pretending Ayan Mohamed why they are conducting a stop- it doesn’t have a history of racial and-search, and that an officer injustice. The violence experienced He joked with the audience, say- must, if asked, provide their iden- by those in ex-British colonies like ing, “I am not against white people. Adam Elliott-Cooper arrived at tification number and tell the ap- Kenya, Jamaica or Nigeria, is now I have many white friends.” Warwick on Wednesday 13 Octo- prehended individual their station. repeated on the streets of Britain. The presentation on the screen ber to give a talk on police brutal- However, many black students at "Black people are more likely included quotations from celeb- ity against ethnic minorities, spe- the lecture expressed their unease to be stopped, searched, arrested, rities, such as Pharrell Williams’ cifically those of Afro-Caribbean at confronting police as they feared charged or killed at the hands of statement, “The New Black doesn’t descent. it may lead to a violent escalation. British police. blame other races for our issues.” Elliott-Cooper, who is associ- Discussing the recent murders “As our legal cases, marches and The topics discussed ranged ate editor of Ceasefire Magazine, of Michael Brown, Freddie Gray, civil disobedience disrupt this sys- from the way racism is ingrained in opened by telling the audience that and Sandra Bland in the US, Elli- temic violence, black communities, society to Kanye West’s presiden- black people are statistically more ott-Cooper emphasised that racial- and their allies, will continue the tial campaign in 2020. likely to be stopped and searched, ly-aggravated police brutality is not fight for racial justice, in a country Second-year Tolu Alabi said: and that they are 3 times more like- simply an American problem, cit- still deep in denial.” “We just don’t have these conver- ly to be tasered than white people. ing the cases of Mark Duggan and Warwick’s ethnic minorities of- sations - it was good to get them The lecture was largely centered Stephen Lawrence as examples. ficer, Nia-Cerise Conteh, was re- out so people can talk about these on what can be done to combat Cooper went on to say that, ulti- sponsible for organising Wednes- issues.” such discrimination. mately, everyone has a responsibili- day’s talk and stressed the role Mems Ayinla, co-president of It raised awareness on a number ty to be aware of the racial injustice these lectures and discussions play WARS commented: “[It was] dif- of facts, including that the police that occurs daily: “Unlike America, in educating people on the subject. ficult as our exec come from differ- ent parts of the world”. » Photo: Eric Hossinger / Flickr Student stories from around the globe Chiara Castrovillari and Sarah Morland report on news that is affecting students Mexico USA Government investigates missing students Students fight guns with dildos

Just over a year after the trag- nition. However, relatives and op- Thousands of Texas students will the event organiser, on Campus ic disappearance of 43 students ponents dispute the government’s be strapping dildos onto their (DILDO) Carry’s Facebook page. from Ayotzinapa in Mexico, the account and argue that state police backpacks in protest against a gun Dildos, concluded Ms Jin, are Mexican Attorney General has were likely involved in the abduc- carrying law passed earlier this “just about as effective as protect- released an 85-volume file about tion. summer. ing us from sociopathic shooters, the investigation via her Twitter An expert panel from the In- Under the law, enacted by State but much safer for recreational page. ter-American Commission on Governor Greg Abbott last June, play.” The disappearance, which Human Rights (IACHR) have anyone can carry a concealed gun The concealed gun carrying law sparked mass-outcry and pro- called the official version physical- on campus, provided they have the will take effect in August 2016, on tests across the country, has raised ly impossible and concluded that proper licensing. the anniversary of the Whitman doubts over the way in which Pres- it downplayed the presence of the In protest of these laws, thou- gun massacre. ident Enrique Peña Nieto is han- local police and federal troops. sands of students have signed up While private universities may dling the investigation. The Commission have not been on Facebook to carry dildos onto opt out, public institutions will be Official reports claim the stu- permitted to interview the soldiers. campus. permitted to designate “gun-free dents were kidnapped and mur- IACHR will be conducting an “You’re carrying a gun to class? zones.” dered by a local gang, who then “official hearing” of their report on Yeah well I’m carrying a HUGE burnt their bodies beyond recog- October 20th. DILDO,” announced Jessica Jin, theboar.org/News | @BoarNews | NEWS 5 5 News theboar.org SU hits out at Stagecoach in open letter negotiations between the union The SU claims that despite materialised in the new timetable. weeks, until we are entirely satisfied Cath Lyon and Stagecoach representatives. Stagecoach being warned about the We therefore see no other option that there are no capacity issues and “Sadly, rather than seeing the sit- potential for overcrowding at the than to insist on [student] inter- that all our journeys are regularly uation improve,” Leigh said in his beginning of term “they failed to vention.” departing on time. The Students’ Union (SU) has hit open letter, “it seems to have actu- He appealed to Stagecoach, in- “At this stage we will then drop out at Stagecoach bus company ally somehow gotten worse.” cluding Regional Manager Steve the number of inspectors back to for failing to meet their promises The letter also included exam- Students are now “losing Burd, saying: “Students are your one, which is our normal level of of a more efficient service as stu- ples of the complaints that were customers, and they have paid for control... dents have been left stranded in received, including claims that stu- money – not saving a service which you are simply not “...In summary I would offer my Leamington or on campus. dents are now “losing money – not money – by attempting delivering. This cannot continue. apologies for the problems that Isaac Leigh, President of the SU, saving money – by attempting to to use [the] absolutely “We would therefore like to re- were experienced on the morning has written an open letter to the use [the] absolutely inadequate ser- inadequate service.” quest a meeting with yourselves of 6th October which were due to company after heavy delays and vice.” to seek compensation for this un- a disproportionate number of our long queues meant that students It also claimed that parents have acceptable service, and to develop double-decked vehicles having de- were missing lectures and seminars, started contacting the union, dis- a proper strategy for how to avoid fects that morning. as well as sporting events because traught at how their children are increase capacity”. similar occurrences in the future.” “The late operation during the of an ‘atrocious’ service, according paying a substantial amount of Mr Leigh also claimed that these Stagecoach responded with an afternoon/evening periods on 6th, to Isaac. money for an inadequate service. delays came despite previous nego- open letter to Mr Leigh, stating: 7th and 8th October was, howev- He claimed that the SU had These issues come after the tiations with Stagecoach and War- “My company has had two in- er, due to roadworks on Stoneleigh received “over 200 complaints” in company were criticised earlier in wickshire County Council. spectors specifically allocated to Road, which were a factor beyond three days after students had diffi- the week for failing to issue a com- He said: “We were promised ex- monitor and control our university my company’s control.” culty in getting to campus on time plete timetable with later buses on tra buses at peak times, as well as services since the start of term and The conversations between the for their classes, despite on-going Wednesdays and Fridays. late-night buses, which have not this will continue for the next few SU and Stagecoach are continuing.

Have anything to say? Tweet us with your views! Tweet: @BoarNews Australia India Students fight fossil fuels Students support gender equality

Melbourne’s University students the announcement of the World University students in Delhi have them from being out after 7 pm. held a ‘Fossil Free’ Summit in re- University Rankings. taken to the streets to fight for The Pinjra Tod (Break The sponse to the World Academic The University of New South equal rights between male and fe- Cage) campaign battles the restric- Summit’s neglect of the pressing Wales was awarded a gigantic male students. tive measures taken by hostels at- issue to divest from Fossil Fuels. cheque by ‘polluters’ for their de- After protesting for women’s tempting to keep female University The World Academic Summit plorable efforts. Over the past rights to a higher education 50 to students safe. Participants in the took place in Australia and gath- year the Fossil Free campaign has 60 years ago, young Indians are campaign have argued that these ered together key academic figures. reached a $2.6 trillion value of di- now protesting the sexist practice measures wrongfully propagate pa- Students marched onto the Ac- vestment across 451 institutions ei- of curfews for women in University triarchal values. ademic World Summit’s venue the ther fully or partially committed to hostels across the country. Delhi’s University alumni have following morning with a clock divestment. Some 60 or more protesters of shown solidarity with this struggle saying “Get with the times Divest”. Worldwide, there are over 400 both sexes marched against the and have joined in chants such as The Summit’s participants were active divestment campaigns – in- discriminatory curfews imposed on “We don’t need no false protec- then surprised by the student’s cluding one in Warwick University, young women staying in Universi- tion, you can’t cage half the nation” ‘Australian Fossil Free University whose Council committed to the ty hostels (the equivalent of dorms during marches which have taken rankings’ mock-ceremony satirising divestment this summer. in the UK). These curfews prohibit place over the past month. theboar.org/News | @BoarNews | NEWS 6 6 News theboar.org Princess Anne visits The Big Freshers’ Move-in Warwick How has this fortnight actually gone? Anthony O’Malley Sophie Cowling

Princess Anne made an appear- ance at Warwick’s Digital Lab Building to commemorate the University receiving the Royal Charter of Incorporation to form as a University from her mother, the Queen herself, half a century ago. As Warwick celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year, a former Olympian and Royal came to wish the University a happy birthday. The occasion was immortalised by a foundation stone of elegant black marble, whose home will be the new Teaching and Learning Building, scheduled to open in 2016. Attendees included university officials such as Vice-chancellor Nigel Thrift, the Lord Mayor, Pro- fessor Michael Scott and WMG Chairman Lord Bhattacharyya, as well as multiple Sabbatical Officers and Students’ Union (SU) repre- sentatives.

Robert Ebenburger one even carried all her stuff. dents. For automotive engineer Jack, Chiara Castrovillari Some Rootes Freshers found chopsticks were his essential, he Niall Johnson Hall wars their pre-drink activities to be the said: “I haven’t used a knife and best group experience they had in fork since I’ve been here”. For most new students, the choice their first days at Warwick. Yet, James from London A new round of students have en- of accommodation was fairly Andrea, of Old Rootes said: crowned his Wilko’s saucepan set tered their university life at War- straightforward – James, a Fresher “We’re all pretty good drinkers, no as his best buy because of its su- wick. The Boar got in touch with living in Jack Martin, fell in love one went to hospital, threw up or preme versatility. the latest arrivals at Warwick to with the hall after an open day passed out so far.” find out more about their first ex- visit. However, Kasia of Bluebell crit- Independence periences in the bubble. Meanwhile Rootes Freshers told icised Warwick’s circling tradition, For Isaac Leigh, president of us the low price and social envi- which she said often resembled “a Just having started a life of sweet Warwick’s Students’ Union, it was ronment were key to the appeal. celebration of peer pressure”. independence, some of Warwick’s a priority to show that “the SU is a Living up to these expectations, new students admitted to a lack of friendly, welcoming and fun place”. Rootes’ new inhabitants empha- International students motivation in the kitchen. The SU’s programme during the sised after only a few nights, that Sophie, living in Bluebell, said » The Princess meets Camilla arrivals weekend and Freshers’ fort- their hall is unpredictable, in a good Some international students her worst meal was a dinner of Dobinson, president of War- night, aimed to showcase the “in- way. told the Boar that the UK can be a chocolate. wick Voluneers / photo: Camilla credible diversity and vibrance of challenging as a new environment. On a more savoury note, one Dobinson the activities” offered at Warwick. However, they said being sur- Rootes student had “only had Freshers could attend a variety All freshers were given a rounded by others who shared that chicken so far”. “No selfies” with Anne of events from club nights at the copy of Warwick’s 50th burden smoothened the settling-in. Perhaps, Warwick’s first years Copper Rooms to societies and Adrian from Romania espe- are yet to explore their potential as SU president Isaac Leigh com- volunteering fairs. Anniversary cookbook cially valued that he lives with chefs. Nevertheless, to help develop mented: “She was so down to Earth upon their arrival open-minded and co-operative their culinary skills, all Freshers re- and showed a particular interest in First impressions count students. ceived a copy of Simple Scoff, War- the sporting side of Warwick.” wick’s 50th Anniversary cookbook Princess Anne has a gold medal In time for arrivals weekend, the Home comforts which was put together with the in individual eventing in the Euro- construction works around the pi- One Rootes student told us that help of Nigel Thrift’s wife. pean championships as an eques- azza were completed. Even a rare the high inter-kitchen mobility is To cope with the difficulties of trian, as well as being the first royal burst of British sun hit the new the basis for ‘infinite possibilities’ life as a Fresher, sometimes it is the The parents to compete in the Olympic games. space between the Arts Centre and of nightly adventures. little things that make the differ- Mr Leigh commented that stu- Rootes building, now called the Bluebell residents, in contrast, ence. For new students, parents who dents would not have known about Benefactors Piazza. value the comforts of their hall, overstay were apparently the big- the visit as royal visits had to be Having travelled to Warwick by gest obstacle. kept confidential: “The confiden- car, train and plane, domestic and Bluebell resident Valentina tried tiality surrounding a royal visit international students were con- “Only eaten chicken so far” to get rid of her parents quickly, did mean I couldn’t tell any of my fronted with campus. she told us: “I was just like, please friends or family about it for a The students’ first concern was Student living at Rootes leave – I want to hang out with my week – and hiding my excitement moving into halls. This year, RAG friends.” was quite difficult at the time! offered a Freshers helper scheme Revealing a softer side, many He added: “Oh, and unfortu- to raise money for The Children’s such as ensuite bathrooms. English Literature and Creative Freshers seemed to feel uprooted nately we weren’t allowed to take society. In exchange for a donation Mara told us that “Bluebell is writing student Valentina claimed from the comforts of home. Most any selfies or ‘pose’ in photos with to the charity, RAG helpers carried for really quiet people and Rootes the most useful thing she brought named their mum as their most the Princess.” boxes and bags to help Freshers for party people”, so she chose Jack were “fluffy socks”. missed person. move in. Martin to get a good balance. Meanwhile concerns about the At the same time, Freshers have Did you see Princess Personal assistance was especial- According to many Freshers, go- British weather led many students not forgotten about all their other Ann on campus? ly appreciated; as Fresher Andrea ing out is the most important and to tell us that the most useful thing attachments – Beatriz from Portu- Tell us on Facebook found, it was “really easy to move often only social group-building brought from home was undoubt- gal confessed: “I miss my hamster.” in” thanks to many helpers; some- activity of Warwick’s first year stu- edly an umbrella. theboar.org/News | @BoarNews | NEWS 7 7 News theboar.org Cunningham quizzes Cameron on student maintenance grants

Christopher Tobin would be a detriment to Conserv- into motion this year but have since come backgrounds from attending servative Association argued: “It ative ambitions of improving the been postponed until 2017. university, now another underrep- is a common misconception that highly skilled economy. Lilya Anderson, first-year PAIS resented group in the university scrapping maintenance grants will The Labour Member of Parlia- Cameron replied to this by student, described the cuts as system is having their opportuni- affect and deter those from low in- ment (MP) for Coventry South pointing to government plans on “damaging to our economy but also ties quashed unnecessarily. Disa- come households from attending Jim Cunningham challenged delivering five million new ap- detrimental for those who wish to bled students incur many costs oth- university.” Prime Minister David Cameron prenticeships by 2020 as well as continue their education and sim- er than the ones being considered “The increase in maintenance on the scrapping of the student the record number of students, ply, through pure luck, do not have in the government’s decision… loans themselves will actually mean maintenance grants and alleged especially those from low-income the financial capability to do so. “The unconsidered costs of car- that more students will be able to plans to abolish the Disabled Stu- households, going to university. ing staff, mobility devices and more afford more than just paying for dents’ Allowances (DSA). Plans to convert the mainte- Barrier to education expensive accommodation, in some household rent, and spend more Cunningham, MP for Coven- nance grant for poorer students to cases, are a crucial element of the money on other living costs like try South since 1992, used his first loans were first announced in July She added: “Your financial sit- debate which is going unaccounted food and travel.” question of this Parliament to ask of this year by Chancellor George uation should never be something for. He added: “These are welcome questions about student funding. Osborne as part of a package of £12 that can prevent you from further- She added: “I am proud that Jim changes and mean that university This followed a letter from Isaac billion of welfare cuts. ing your education.” Cunningham MP honoured the education can become more wide- Leigh, president at the Students’ Currently, students from low Becky Gittins, third-year Poli- disabled students in his constitu- ly accessible for those who wish to Union, to Mr Cunningham which income household families can tics student and Chair of Warwick ency and raised this issue in parlia- take on higher education, and not raised concerns over the removal of claim up to a maximum of £3,387 Labour, echoed Cunningham’s ment with such passion and genu- just restricted to those households the grant. in maintenance grants. concerns: “If the abolition of main- ine conviction.” that can easily support students.” Mr Cunningham highlighted The controversial cuts to the tenance grants wasn’t enough to James Anderson, Chairman of that cuts to the education budget DSA were first announced to come discourage students from low in- the University of Warwick Con- » Photo: The Open University / Flickr Warwick smashes it in ‘Table of Tables’ ranking

Lily Pickard The University of Cambridge in the table of those tables. topped the table for the 5th year “However we are delighted to running, beating out rival Oxford note that this year we were also The University of Warwick has with 90 points to 87, respectively. ranked among the top 100 univer- come in 6th place in the Table of Warwick itself received 74 points, sities in the world in all three of Tables 2016, as published by the with only Oxbridge, St. Andrews, the main international university Times Higher Education. Imperial College London and league tables.” The Table of Tables takes into Durham ranking higher overall. Professor Sir Nigel Thrift, account the main 3 domestic UK The University of Surrey, Lon- vice-chancellor of the University university rankings to create the don School of Economics, Uni- of Warwick, reiterated: “2015 has list: the Complete University versity of Exeter and University of been a year of outstanding success Guide, the rankings published by Bath complete the top 10. for the University of Warwick, with The Guardian, and the combined Peter Dunn, Director of Press the university being placed in the Times and Sunday Times’ Good and Policy for the University, com- top 100 in all three international University Guide. mented: “Warwick has risen in a world rankings.” Warwick jumped two places range of UK tables this year so it is from 8th to 6th since last year. no surprise that we have also risen » Photo: Warwick Media Library Join a revolutionary consulting business Build something great

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Editor: Nour Rose Chehab Comment [email protected] Campaign: Why we want BP off campus Editors’ Letters Connor Woodman

ollowing the stunning vic- tory of our campaign to get Warwick to stop investing in “A quarter “Where’s fossil fuels, Fossil Free Warwick Fhas laid down a new challenge to the University management. We’re launching our ‘BP Off life crisis” the beef?” Campus’ campaign, and calling on Warwick to completely sever its links with the company; most Nour Rose Chehab Bethan McGrath manifestly apparent in the pres- Comment Editor Deputy Editor-in-Chief ence of BP’s only UK-based cor- (Communications) porate archive right in the middle of campus. I don’t have to do things I don’t s many of you will have seen, pain and death, is supposed to ap- want to do just to fit your social “I am now completely Warwick held the “Festival peal to members of the public and norms.” As I heard myself say- comfortable being the of Imagination” this past little kids running around the piaz- “This is a mere “ing that sentence, I realised how far huge nerd that I am” Aweekend to celebrate its 50th An- za. Isn’t that a little strange? I’ve come in the past few months. niversary. It’s like Primark using images taste of the litany of As a kid, I was always buried in How we celebrate imagination, it of sad, overworked children in its crimes, propaganda my books, not very interested in trol of my life and the way it was seems, is to hold debates and talks adverts. Causing suffering - which and environmental whatever was going on in the out- going. I guess I just realised that life (that don’t at all sound like TED is generally agreed on as a terrible destruction” side world. This despaired my par- was too short to go around living talks), cookery demonstrations, act - isn’t even being hidden. Isn’t it ents a lot, who were always on my someone else’s life. and turn Butterworth Hall into strange that as a society, we’ve be- back with sentences like “Go out”, Partying was always such a tor- some sort of science playground for come so used to meat, and where We’ve demanded that Warwick’s “Make friends”, “Look at them! ture for me but I forced myself primary school children. it comes from, that collectively we management initiate talks with BP They’re having fun! Don’t you want to go out in order to be included What I was most happy to see, don’t have any problem with it? over their vacation of the Archive to play with them?” The truth is, and to be “cool”. The dancing, the however, was a piazza full of food If you haven’t already, watch the by November 30, in time for the I didn’t. I was genuinely not inter- drunken haze, the sweatiness, the stalls. As a vegetarian, there’s usual- YouTube video called ‘Three year huge climate summit happening in ested in whatever kids my age were hangovers were definitely not my ly at least one meat-free stall where old kid explains why he doesn´t Paris at the end of the year. doing. jam. I can pick up a decent quinoa and want to eat meat’. A little boy is get- Why BP? They were just placed I’d much rather chill with some kale mezze with falafel and raw ting his head around the fact that top of a list of European compa- friends, read a good book, go to a slaw for £7.99. what his mother has served him nies blocking the transition to a “I became obsessed concert and do those things that I Yet I was left with very few veg- used to be alive. Doesn’t this little clean economy. They’re currently with always looking good, thoroughly enjoy. I haven’t drunk etarian options on my Saturday boy represent our most natural hu- being sued in a British court for for 2 months (except for the occa- lunchtime trip. I know what you’re man reactions? going to the ‘right’ places, sional glass of wine), and I’ve never thinking, big surprise, most people His thought processes aren’t alleged complicity in the kidnap doing the ‘right’ things” and torture of a union activist in felt better. like meat. tainted by societally accepted Colombia. I am now completely comforta- What struck me, though, was norms, which is why he’s so upset They’re responsible for the sin- ble being the huge nerd that I am, a stall called The Beefer, whose at the fact that an animal had to die gle largest off-shore oil disaster in But, when puberty hit, I started and I’m done pretending and put- black signage brandished two le- just for his dinner. This is a basic Earth’s history, and they plan to feeling the social pressure of doing ting up a show. thally sharp knives next to the human instinct, which seems to those things I was told I was “sup- I’ve even changed degrees from name. To most eyes, there’s nothing have been beaten out of us by a cul- “Allowing (them to posed” to do. I started becoming Economics to Sociology. I have al- wrong with this sign; the knives are ture that tells us eating meat is okay, that person that everyone else ex- ways wanted to study Sociology but in-keeping with the brand’s macho because everybody does it. stay on campus) is pected me to be. when I used to say that, people’s re- devotion to serving ‘really beefy’ I’ve gone on for long enough to normalise their I became obsessed with always actions were always “How are you food. Their display even tells us now, but take a minute to consider presence, legitimate their looking good, going to the “right” going to make a living? What are that ‘Beefer don’t do no chicken’ - a scenario where everything about behaviour” places, doing the “right” things. you going to do with this degree? Lest their masculinity be brought western society is the same, except What people thought of me be- Don’t you want to make money?” into question, I’m assuming. we don’t eat meat and there’s no his- came more important to me than My answer to them now is “fuck Before you flick to the next page torical record of us ever doing so. If dig up and burn far more carbon my personal fulfilment. you.” I am not letting anyone dic- expecting another angry meat-con- someone then handed you one of than is reasonably compatible with I was genuinely unhappy with tate my life and choices anymore. demning rant, hang on. Whilst I The Beefer’s burgers, wouldn’t you keeping climate change within myself and had many identity cri- Am I now completely free of any do go on those occasionally, in this be disgusted about where it had manageable proportions. ses. I had those two sides of me kind of social pressure? Certainly article I simply want to provoke come from? This is a mere taste of the lita- constantly fighting inside of my not, but I’m working on it. And to a little thought. Don’t you find it ny of crimes, propaganda and en- head and it was not pretty at all. you, out there, know that it’s never strange that a company would use Have we been vironmental destruction wrought This summer was a summer of too late for a fresh start and to be a knife, of all things, to advertise conditioned to eat meat? by this most vicious of companies. rediscovering myself, of reaffirm- the best version of yourself you can itself? Comment online: Are any students really comforta- ing my identity, of taking back con- possibly be. A knife, symbolising violence, theboar.org/comment ble with their presence right at the heart of our community? Allowing such a corporation The Archive staff openly state hand over all the documents to tional media coverage. to so viscerally occupy half of one that their “primary focus is on sup- “Forcing BP off our the Modern Records Centre to Warwick has inadvertently set the finest buildings on campus – porting the BP businesses global- campus would make a real be managed in the public interest, itself up with a sensational oppor- the Modern Records Centre – is ly”. statement” rather than for private profit. Ei- tunity to strike a serious blow to to normalise their presence, legit- BP maintains a veto over the ther way, BP as a company needs to the legitimacy of the industry pil- imate their behaviour, and lend use of any material it deems “com- researchers. get out. laging our planet. them the respectability an insti- mercially sensitive,” and billions of For all this, according to docu- Forcing BP off our campus tution like the University of War- pounds of vital renewable research ments from the Land Registry, BP would make a real statement, cause Follow us on twitter for wick can confer. conducted by the company in the pays precisely no rent. physical disruption to their activi- the latest opinion pieces 80s and 90s is hidden away from One viable option is for BP to ties, and probably generate interna- @BoarComment 10 theboar.org 10 |

“Let’s take a stand for Cartoon Corner religious liberty” Nick Buxey

lthough Nadiya Hussain may have warmed the nation’s hearts when she became the first British Muslim woman to win GBBO,A we’re far from fully inte- grating different cultures into our society. In fact, official figures on hate crimes showed that religiously mo- tivated ones had increased by 43 percent in the last year. Additionally, the number of an- ti-Muslim attacks have become so great that police will now be asked to record them as a separate cate- gory, which puts them on the same footing as Anti-Semitic crimes. It’s shocking to think that this was revealed in the same week thou- sands of British people celebrated a Muslim mum with a knack for lem- on drizzle cake. But life is not Bake Off. In the real world, Muslim men and women (but women in particular), are the focus of attacks which aim to mock their religion whilst attempting to reinforce the tenuous links between mainstream Islam and extremist ter- rorism. Stories range from a midwife who left after being racially abused by patients to a commuter doused in alcohol by racist thugs. What’s most shocking about these stories is that the abusers in these stories never » “The Great Racist Bake Off?” Cartoon by Reece Goodall seem to face any sort of recompense. Researchers Imwan Aran and Dr Irene Zempi, who conducted inter- views with victims of anti-Muslim Trump on Syria: Is the refugee crisis a security issue? hate crimes, found that the perpe- trators were often not confronted by Samer Almaz tells you why Trump’s position on the refugee crisis is ridiculous bystanders. This is reprehensible. It doesn’t matter that the victim was onald Trump’s words have cial segregation was ruled unconsti- few ISIS militants could be among tries to be able to manage the risk. wearing a hijab. been a magnet to contro- tutional. them. Especially in the USA, the land It doesn’t matter that ISIS hap- versy like flies attracted to Just let that sink in and under- To catch a fish you must think of supposedly the most sophisticat- pens to use Islam to justify the faeces, and none more attention stand how ludicrous it is to even like a fish, and after all, if they had ed intelligence agency in the world. crimes they are committing. Every- Dgrabbing than the threat he issued a consider implementing such an ar- intentions to infiltrate the West, Realistically speaking, if they are one should feel free to speak out few days ago to Syrian and Iraqi mi- chaic policy today. So fair enough, this would probably be the optimal capable of hunting down the former when they’re the victim of a crime, grants that they would be shipped it’s tempting to dismiss Trump and strategy. world champion of hide and seek no matter how petty it seems. And back if he became president. call him bigoted. This opinion has also been re- underground in Iraq, they are per- the public should be standing be- “They could be ISIS” was his jus- However, he is still somehow flected by David Cameron and even fectly competent of monitoring the hind them, defending everyone’s tification. His words echoed Nigel head and shoulders above all other Pope Francis. Furthermore, Trump activities of suspicious refugees and right to a peaceful life. Farage’s sentiment that “ISIS are candidates in the approval ratings. claims that the refugees are “mostly neutralising any potential threat on Although it’s easy to blame the using this route to put jihadists on Mainly because I would like to strong men”, and while there are no their own soil. victims here for not speaking out, European soil”. retain some faith in humanity, I re- reliable sources on six-pack/non- In similar fashion to how terror- that’s not the right course of action. Briefly ignoring the fact that the fuse to believe that all his supporters six-pack ratios, according to the UN ists use fear to gain power, Trump is For a minority that’s subjected to presidential candidates’s plan is un- approve of him because they are dis- slightly more than half the refugees probably employing the same star- a barrage of racist abuse simply for believably unfeasible and an insane illusioned. to the US are indeed men. tegy to sway vulnerable voters who having a specific faith, it can often waste of resources (I don’t care how Much like we are encouraged to Yet this is about as convincing as feel the need to be protected. be traumatic to recount these inci- rich you are, Donald), it begs the critically analyse statements which the business tycoon’s belief gets. The Welcome refugees and send dents to a police force that may not question of whether he is genuine- are tempting to assume are true, UN office of statistics also indicates Trump to Syria. even be that sympathetic to them. ly concerned for the safety of citi- there is an interesting case when that slightly more than half of Syr- Some Muslim men and women zens and therefore whether the US reversing the thought process and ian refugees to Europe are women, » Photo: are even attempting to outwardly and Europe should be worried, or attempting to find some truth in therefore the facts are not particu- gageskid- disguise their faith. Can you im- if this is just part of a racist agenda, seemingly ridiculous statements larly suspicious and essentially there more / agine if the same problems were allegations which señor Trump’s big made by the comedian presiden- is no evidence to suggest the West Flickr faced by those of other faiths? The mouth has been no stranger to. tial candidate. After all, if there is should be worried. The security uproar would be deafening and im- He attempts to defend his prom- a potential security threat it would threat of this issue is overblown, an mediate. It might be easy for people ise by claiming a similar strategy be naive to not investigate the risks ISIS apocalypse is not beckoning us. to ignore these statistics if they’ve was deployed by Eisenhower, ‘Op- involved. Even the paranoid few who never encountered it, but ignorance eration Wetback’. This immigration Unquestionably the migrants would suggest that there is no ev- is not bliss. law, derogatorily racist in its very consist heavily of Syrians and Iraqis idence we should not be worried What affects Muslims affects us, name, deported over a million illegal innocently seeking to improve their should remain calm. and it’s important that the rise of Is- immigrants, mostly Mexicans who lives, many of which are children If there was genuinely a security lamophobia was treated as the key were sent to random remote areas in and in some ways it is sorrowful threat and a handful of the mi- social issue that it is. Although I’m the Latin state, often stranded with that an explanation must be made to grants indeed have disastrous not suggesting that we become vig- no food, water or shelter. help people in need. ambitions, you would ex- ilantes, I think it’s high time to take The policy was implemented in For arguments’ sake, however, pect the governments a stand for religious liberty, and con- 1954. Literally on the same day ra- there could be a case to suggest a of the respective coun- front racism wherever and whenev- er we see it. theboar.org/Comment | @BoarComment | COMMENT 11 Flight MH17: “I walk home...with keys between my knuckles”

Truths and lies George Lawlor was insulted by The Warwick tradition of cicr- Beth Hurst his invitation, I couldn’t help but cling, in its essence, is drinking Mike Wrench be angry. Forgive me if I don’t ac- with a group of people, some you bout half an hour into the I cept your “This is not what a rapist don’t know, lead by social secretar- n the 13th October, the Heart Consent workshop, I looks like” sign. ies who do not know you personal- Dutch safety board an- finally accepted what I had Consent is about far more than ly, and have a specific job to do. nounced that the MH17 tried to deny. When one of the fa- simply not looking like a rapist. In this environment we need flight was downed by a Russian- cilitatorsA read the legal definition Its about addressing the ideas sur- information about consent, to pro- Omade Buk missile. This may not off sexual assault, a few people rounding rape culture, challenging vide a safe campus environment for seem particularly surprising. gasped. “I did not know it was ille- stereotypes, spreading awareness, all members of the university, irre- The West has been quick to gal,” one girl exclaimed. My mouth and knowing how to be as *inclu- spective of gender, race, sexuality or condemn the Russians and the dropped open – it had happened to sive as possible. The fact that 90% religion. pro-Russian rebels, and that con- me only that week. of victims know their attacker I myself thought, “I probably demnation has been widely dis- At a popular, local student night- (Rape Crisis UK) is more than just don’t need to go to I Heart Consent.” seminated throughout most, if not club I was dancing with my house- a statistic – it is a reality for count- I thought I was pretty much clued all, of the media. The Western me- mates like any other night. I wasn’t less people. up about it through my own expe- dia is decided; Russia did it. Russia thinking about anyone around me. The group of boys I felt so riences and reading. I was wrong. is evil. I remember talking then dancing threatened by? I know them all by I need I Heart Consent because The report, however, does not next to a group of boys, with one name. I’ve talked to them. They after I felt threatened, my first apportion blame. There is a sug- perhaps being a little too friendly, a have me on Facebook. What might thoughts were “why did I wear a gested area from which the missile little too close. shock you even more? I like them body con skirt tonight?” and “why came, but any attempts to assign an I remember another pulling me as people. did I buy a lolly pop that could origin to the missile would proba- towards him, and us struggling to I know them through my role in have put out the wrong message?” bly be erroneous. communicate over the deafening a society, have mutual friends with I need it because my position in Currently, the situation involves music. The rest I struggle to piece them, and enjoy talking to them at a society should not mean, outside a game where several large groups together. I remember the feeling of socials. of events, I still am forced into the point fingers at each other, each hands around my back, holding me, None of them look like the im- stereotypes and assumptions of my crying that the other group did it. touching me but I couldn’t escape. agined shadowy rapist in an alley. role. I need it because I walk home Evidence is ignored, because it is The memory of hot sticky breath Even more…they aren’t bad peo- in the dark with keys between my superfluous to each group’s pur- assaulting my neck still makes me ple. Maybe, if they’d have attend- knuckles. I need it because I strug- pose. shudder. ed a workshop about consent they gled to admit I was harassed. “The Western media is It stopped there, but it was might have thought twice about I need it because when someone enough for me to run out of the their drunken behaviour in a club. wolf-whistled at me the day after, decided; Russia did it. room to the safety of the female There simply isn’t enough as I walked to the bus stop, I nearly Russia is evil.” toilets. The morning after when I awareness of issues surrounding broke down and cried. read the texts I’d sent to a friend; rape culture, so people don’t take So excuse me Mr Lawlor, just And then there is the fact “Had to run away”, “I swear he just into consideration the effects of because you feel like you don’t that a civilian plane was allowed kissed my neck”, “feel so sexualised” their actions, no matter how small, “need” I Heart Consent, doesn’t to fly over an active warzone. and “they keep trying to grind on even towards someone you have mean that you are exempt from the Why? 16 Ukrainian aircraft had me”; I felt sick. met before and assume it’s ok. responsibility to attend, to become been downed by the rebels, but the I signed up for I Heart Con- University is a hub of young aware, and help the people that do. Ukrainians hadn’t closed the air- sent because as an exec member adults meeting each other, social- space involved. for multiple societies, I was en- ising, and forming relationships. It was sheer madness, or perhaps couraged to attend, but I was glad There is no other place where con- arrogance. 160 civilian flights went to learn more. When I read that sent culture is more relevant. » Photo: Science & Tech editor, over that warzone; three were close Selina, holds I Heart Consent sign to the MH17 when it was hit. Brit- ish carriers flew over the fly-zone simply to reduce fuel costs. And Russia is the enemy. The real culprit, I think, will never be known or found. Any in- vestigation will be accused of being biased, as the Dutch report also has been - there is some basis to this. On the one hand, the West is in- nately biased against Russia, and on the other, it appears that many fragments of the plane were taken Is Corbyn the UK equivalent of Obama? from the site by either the Ukrain- ians or the rebels. On a year abroad in the US, Hannah Bettison makes the interesting political comparison Simply, I think the countries in- volved don’t care about who died, erhaps around election time arguing to us so far is that race is He attended a state secondary as a result of his race, now being or even who was and even is at you, like me, read an inter- fundamentally institutional to the school and is arguably more work- used against Corbyn because of risk; they care about who they can view with Chuka Umunna United States and, recently, he did ing class than many of us, as he his class? I’m certainly not saying blame. The crash is an easy, emo- where he was asked about be- so by comparing it to the centrality preferred working for rather than this is the case and obviously such tive political tool. The deaths of Ping dubbed the UK’s Obama, but studying Trade Unions and thus a comparison is limited. 296 people is something that can Jeremey Corbyn, really?! “There are equally dropped out after just one year at The class system, at least in be used. Certainly Obama and Corbyn North London Polytechnic, not theory, allows for social mobility As soon as that level of people have their similarities: they were undeniable differences: quite Warwick. are killed, people are upset. It’s a both involved in activism and pro- a black man and a white Perhaps a better example of this “Are the same arguments simple, yet powerful logic. One test before they moved into politics man” apparent class difference are the that were used against which politicians and the media and serve as leaders of the more pictures that went viral last month: Obama as a result of his can use to fuel anti-‘insert-group- left wing political parties within both Party leaders from the 80s race used against Corbyn here’ inclinations in their people. their respective countries, although of the class system in the United were placed side by side: Cameron The very fact that a no-fly zone comparing the Democrats and La- Kingdom. in his tails at a Bullingdon Club because of his class?” wasn’t enacted shows how little the bour is itself a stretch. That’s not to say the two are mu- social is compared to Corbyn being different parties cared about the However there are equally un- tually exclusive and I could spend taken away by police at and an- in a way that a race based system human cost of this conflict. deniable differences: a Harvard law an entire article going into the de- ti-Apartheid protest. cannot, to pick out just one over- Sure, someone shot this plane graduate and a university drop-out tails of his theory but for the sake Returning to Obama it is in- simplification made for the sake of down, perhaps accidentally or per- or, more obviously, a black man and of this article, if we are to take his teresting to note the similarities keeping the word count down. haps not. However the fact is, there a white man. So why am I even argument as true, then it’s worth between the opposition responses Nonetheless, this article was were no preventative measures to asking this question? asking; if race to America is what to both candidates coming into never intended to answer but only stop people dying. I’m currently on exchange at class is to the United Kingdom, is leadership; both were, and still are, to ask a question which is, at least My earlier point that the real University of California Santa Bar- Corbyn our equivalent to Obama? accused of association with, or even I think, well worth considering as culprit will never be found is per- bara and am taking a Black Studies Corbyn, at least compared to direct involvement in, terrorist or- Labour enters into its new, and all haps a little all-encompassing – class titled “Obama as a Political the majority of high up politicians, ganisations. too controversial, phase of leader- everyone involved in this conflict is and Cultural Phenomenon”. has a relatively working class back- Are the same arguments that ship. » Photo: lewishamdream- culpable for these 296 lives. What our professor has been ground. were used against Obama, possibly er + jmtimages/ Flickr 12

Editor: Blessing Mukosha Park Features [email protected] FNOC: Featured Names On Campus The names and stories that you need to know Blood Lions Without knowing, I helped raise lions to be killed Jessica Agboola: Founder of the Black Women’s Project their lions have been exported to Helena Maybury sanctuaries outside of the country. The only lions being exported from South Africa are in the form of tro- ith around 200 farms in phies, skins or bones. South Africa breeding We wanted to make a difference, predators in captivity, but instead we unwittingly gave over 800 captive-bred lions are our time, dedication, and money killedW in canned hunts each year. to an unethical and abject cause. Canned hunting remains legal in Ultimately, we became part of the South Africa to this day. Seven problem we were trying to solve. years ago the South African gov- How could we know what was ernment made a law that animals actually happening at Ukutula, and must roam free for two years before many other so-called lion sanctuar- being hunted. Lion breeders, how- ies all over South Africa? The new ever, challenged this law in court documentary, Blood Lions, inves- and it was ruled that such regula- tigates the controversial topic and tions were “not rational”. Is there sheds light on the international in- » Jessica (center) with two other members of the Black Women’s Project / photo: BWP anything, in fact, less rational and dustry of canned-hunting in South more inhumane? I unknowingly Africa, revealing the truth behind a supported this trade. lot of these sanctuaries and volun- Blessing Park undertones of race, we can deal In the summer of 2014 I vol- teer programmes that exploit peo- B: Why is it important that black with them with knowledge and unteered for a lion reserve called ple’s love of animals in order fund women make use of groups like the support and honesty – we are hon- Ukutula, in a remote village north their immoral enterprises. BWP? est to prepare for the future. This is of Pretoria. I spent a fortnight car- People have been increasingly his issue, Features was able to J: We are all black women in a Brit- the place for it. questioning the industry of killing speak to Warwick Student ish context but we are at the core animals for sport, especially since Jessica Agboola, founder a certain ‘type’ of black. Therefore, B: So what is the format of the I had inadvertently the well-known case of Cecil the of the Black Women’s Project. By these forums for women exist so we BWP? been helping to rear lion this summer. However trag- theirT mission statement they are a can come together and share our J: BWP holds monthly discussions these creatures to be ic and unjust this incident was, it student collective for black female common experiences. on important issues. We also have slaughtered and taken is not exactly a rare occurrence in students at British universities who a big sister/little sister scheme to home as trophies. South Africa as a clip from the are committed to rebuilding the help new students transition into Blood Lions’ trailer revealed that, black female body. BWP are also At some point as a woman university. Hopefully with our “Every single day at least 2-3 cap- involved with Let’s Talk Black, a you will hit boundaries; alumni there will be a professional ing for lions, bottle-feeding cubs, tive bread, hand-reared, tame lions collective of Warwick University’s but when black women network which will create a visible interacting and playing with lions are being slaughtered in canned societies committed to addressing hit them it’s going to be network of black women in spac- of all ages. I met some truly amaz- hunts”. racial, political and social issues different. es that aren’t expected. I always say ing people, and fell in love with an If you are thinking about volun- affecting black and minority stu- that I want to see black women in adorable 2-week-old cub named teering in South Africa for animal dents. space! Hercules. conservations or sanctuaries, be Ukutula claimed that they were aware that not all of them are le- Blessing: Please introduce yourself. B: What is a common experience that B: How do you interact with socie- formerly involved in the gitimate. Fortunately, there Jessica: I’m a normal Sociology you have come across? ties like Warwick Anti-Racism So- genetic research of are plenty of resources student acting on her interests. I’m J: That we may have different ex- ciety(WARS)? white lions, and online that can in- interested in the development of periences, but externally we are J: WARS has inspired everything were now sim- form you of the black people at university, especial- viewed the same; as black and as I’ve done with BWP. Before uni- ply focused on good, the bad ly those who aspire to do more and women – this can’t be changed. versity I’d never heard from black the conser- and the ugly. do things things differently. voices in academia. Now I see the vation and Although B: How can this impact black wom- strength, wit and articulate excel- protection of my expe- B: Is that what prompted you to en as they make their way through lence of people that look like me the animals. rience has start the Black Women’s Project? life? and it’s changed how I could view Over a year been taint- J: Yes, I founded the BWP in Jan- J: We may all come from different myself. It was as if I had a diagno- later I found ed by this uary and it was established in Feb- social and economic backgrounds sis to an illness – I learnt the words out that they shocking ruary 2015. Our mission statement but what is significant is that cer- and ways of understanding things were, and still revelation, I is that we are a student collective tain people can change how they that I had seen every day but didn’t are, implicat- do not regret for black female students at British are viewed but, by virtue of being know how to articulate. ed in canned the incredible universities who are committed to black and women, often society hunting. I had and unique op- rebuilding the black female body. only views the external and aesthet- B: Looking to the future, what inadvertently been portunity I had to Essentially, we aim to do this on a ic features that can’t be changed in things are you most excited to see helping to rear these interact with and learn physical and conceptual level. The order to cast judgement upon us. BWP doing? creatures to be slaughtered about such truly phenom- need for it to be rebuilt is because J: BWP is very excited to see that and taken home as trophies. I was enal creatures. My time at Ukutu- the black woman’s image is incom- B: How does your group empower we are addressing this undertone devastated. I could not bear to la only ever deepened my love for plete and we believe that only when its members to break past this? of race from so many angles, and think of Hercules, or any other cub, animals, and finding out the truth we acknowledge that, we will be J: We acknowledge that there are is grateful to see the other societies pacing an enclosed environment behind the organisation has made able to make the necessary moves problems but we navigate our way like WARS and the African-Car- while some coward waits in their me more motivated than ever to do to change that. with wisdom to solve them and get ibbean Society working hard jeep to shoot him in the head, drag everything possible to raise aware- past the boundaries in front of us. through Let’s Talk Black and Black his body back home, and have him ness of the canned-hunting indus- B: What do you mean that the black We focus on the big picture. Stud- History Month. What a time to be stuffed and hung up on display. I try and bring about its end. No an- woman’s body is incomplete? ying at university helped me real- alive! was told he would grow old; that imal should be bred for the bullet. J: Essentially, the Black female ise that at some point as a woman they all would. body is a representation of our I was assured that the lions, you will hit boundaries; but when Want to learn more? Blood Lions airs on the 28th lived experiences as well as being black women hit them it’s going to where possible, would be sent a physical body. The fact that the Find the BWP on Facebook: to wonderful sanctuaries around October at 8pm on the Discov- be different. You can feel alienation facebook.com/ body needs to be repaired is indica- because other people don’t expe- the world, and I naively believed ery Channel. tive of the injustices that have been theblackwomensproject rience what you will experience. everything they told us. There is photo: Helena Maybury done to it. Helping to tackle those issues with no evidence, however, that any of » theboar.org/Features | @BoarFeatures | FEATURES 13 The Warwick Rowers: uncovered Tristan, Lucas, Tom and Will talk nudity, cheeky Viallis and fighting homophobia in sport

» Seven years in and still covered in paint / photos: Warwick Boat Club

f you haven’t heard about them Warwick Rowers calendar, we is a barrier to LGBTQ+ members over the seven years and works full that day. Be it working at Buzz- yet, you will soon. For seven were supporting a range of differ- being actively involved in sports time to make it a success, with help feed’s office for a day to being on years, their infamous naked ent charities. When our calendar teams. We do hope the work we from various members of the club. the Andy Cohen show, to meeting calendar has raised an incredible took off due to the support we’d are doing with the calendar and the Kim Kardashian and then lifting Iamount for charity. Speaking more gained from the gay communi- message we are spreading discour- Boar: In general, on campus do peo- up Kris Jenner for a photo, the US about the calendar and the cause ty, we decided that we wanted to ages this kind of behaviour, and we ple ever recognise you as ‘that guy tour was a truly unforgettable expe- that they fundraise for, the War- give something back, by focusing encourage other sports clubs to get from the calendar’? rience. We were able to meet a lot wick Rowers sit down with Fea- on combating bullying caused by involved with Sport Allies. Tristan: Strangely enough, I’ve of our key supporters who were ob- tures to talk nudity, cheeky Viallis homophobia in sports, especially in been recognised twice on the tube viously unable to make UK events, and fighting homophobia in sport. team sports. Sport Allies has been Boar: The idea of doing a naked cal- in London, once on the streets in and also talked at Princeton Uni- in existence since 2014 and its goal endar, where did it come from and LA, and once at home in Cornwall, versity to their scholarship athletes The Boar: For those who are new is to create a world where sport is is there anyone you can specif ically but never on campus. I think as it’s about embracing the message of to Warwick or haven’t been lucky a leader in celebrating difference. mention for bringing the idea up? a project run by Warwick students Sport Allies. All in all, a very suc- enough to get to know you – who are Research commissioned by Sport Tristan: The calendar was orig- it’s not a big deal to be seen around cessful trip. you and what do you do? Allies shows that currently team inally started by the boat club’s campus, so no one mentions it. Tom: We are the Warwick Men’s sports enforce a heteronormative ex-president Chris Primett Boar: Do you feel like you need to rowing team and we spend most culture in which gender stereotypes Boar: Obviously you’ve got a pretty work extra hard to keep yourself in of the year rowing in races across force people into boxes that aren’t large fan base – who makes up the shape? Should I never expect to see the country and training for these the right fit. A lot of the LGBTQ+ majority of it? any of you having a sneaky Viallis? races. However for the past seven community and also other het- Tristan: We’ve been incredibly Will: We all train hard 12-13 times a years, every summer we’ve stripped erosexual men who don’t feel lucky to have a lot of support week so it’s not too difficult prepar- off to make a naked calendar to like they respond to those from the gay communi- ing for the calendar. You’ll always raise money for our Boat Club and standards are less likely ty, who really helped the catch me with a cheeky Viallis after Sports Allies which fights hom- to join team sports and project grow in the early a night out - I have to hit that 4000 ophobia in sport. Year on year, it’s more likely to experience years. Nowadays we’re calories a day somehow! Three days got bigger and bigger thanks to the bullying for not being about 50/50 between before the calendar I did try as eat gay community getting behind the “manly” enough. Sport male and female sup- about 1000 calories a day - worst calendar, to the extent that last year should be for everybody, port of all ages. We’ve few days of my life! Also turning up we had an American tour, which and that’s why everyone recently discovered that hungover and dehydrated was actu- generated half a billion page views else should be supporting a large number of heter- ally a good strategy. for media articles about our trip. Sport Allies. osexual males have start- ed following our project, Boar: Last question, where can I buy Boar: Warwick has a lot of as they’re interested in the a calendar and how much are they? Currently team sports sports clubs and also has a friendship we have as a team. Tom: You can get the calendar and strong LGBT+ community but This is something we’ve fo- find out more about our project at enforce a heteronormative do you think there is enough done cused on in this year’s calendar, our website www.warwickrowers. culture in which gender to act against homophobia not only as we believe that the bonds that org. You can also find us on Insta- stereotypes force people on the sports pitch (or on the water) can be made through sport should gram (@warwick_rowers), Twitter into boxes that aren’t the but outside of it too? If not, what be open to all, regardless of gender (@naked_rowers), and Facebook right fit. more do you think needs to be done? and current calendar producer and or sexuality and that men shouldn’t (‘The Warwick Rowers Calendar’) Will: Personally I don’t think photographer Angus Malcolm. have to abide by gender stereotypes. enough has been done at any sports The two met when Chris wanted That’s why our statement this year club until all LGBTQ+ individuals some photos taken for his model- is: ‘This is for everyone’. who wish to partake in sport can ling portfolio, then they got talking Boar: The outreach programme that do so freely and without prejudice about rowing and how poor the Boar: You’ve just returned from you fundraise for ‘Sport Allies’ works from other members of the socie- club was at that stage, and a naked your US tour, how was that? to help tackle homophobia and help ty. You do often hear words such calendar seemed like a good way to Tristan: The US tour was a great young people. What motivated you as ‘gay’ and other sexuality related raise funds! Since then Angus Mal- way for us to meet a lot of our main to initiate this programme and why remarks being thrown around cir- colm has really been the driving supporters, and to gain exposure in should everyone else be supporting it cling in the Copper Rooms and on force of the calendar. As the only the American media. At the end of too? campus - until behaviour such as member of the project who never each day you had to sit back and Read the full interview online: Lucas: In the early years of the this stops I believe there somewhat graduates he’s overseen the growth actually realise what you’d done theboar.org/features 14

Editor: Elizabeth Pugsley Lifestyle [email protected] New column Don’t touch my f*cking ‘fro Blessing Mukosha-Park talks privilege, diversity, and ‘pulling a Rachel Dolezal’

hen it’s just hair - and-mix’. Historically, they have same luxury. All over the world what’s the big deal? been moulded as the standard of black women are told that their “Black women beauty for all women to live by. natural hair is ugly or strange, some Ready, wear weave to look White beauty standards saturate sort of circus attraction which war- white, why isn’t that cultural ap- every inch of our lives, from media rants wandering hands to touch and propriationW too?” and music to film and television. play with it like it is not a real part steady... “You should take it as a compli- Where black women’s bodies have of their body, culture and character. ment!” been fetishised, desexualised and Women in business environments “White girls just do it better!” thrown into the mud, ‘white’ beau- are told that their natural hair isn’t Maybe I’m just an angry black ty has suffered the exact opposite. ‘professional enough’ and little girls cookies. woman. But when I see a video on White women are in a highly priv- everywhere playing with the long, Facebook of a white woman saying ileged position. Perhaps due to ig- blonde hair of their white Barbie ‘how to make straight (Caucasian) norance, arrogance or because their dolls grow up craving ‘good hair’ Fancy getting busy with baking? Heidi hair into afro hair’, with comments beauty is seen as the one to emu- that flows past their shoulders and like the ones above, I get pissed. late, it’s rarely criticised when they runs silkily through their fingers. Selwood is here to tell you how Because whether it’s Miley Cyrus appropriate other cultures. People of colour are told that their rocking up at the VMA’s wearing cultural dress is weird, different and hether the autumn Cooking method: fake blonde dreadlocks or Marc something only to be shared in pri- term workload is al- Jacobs putting bantu knots on “We need to be aware vate and yet these same critics will ready creeping back 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/Gas white models and selling them as immediately double-tap a picture on or, if you’re a 4 ‘mini buns’ the blatant disregard of lazy ignorance and of Kendall Jenner in salwar kameez Fresher trying to find something to 2. Melt the butter slightly in the some people show to the culture of ‘Columbizing’ other (“wow, a new trend for 2015!”). doW halfway through your afternoon microwave, but do not boil. people of colour continues to shock Netflix binge, this recipe will be 3. Beat the melted butter with the me. people’s cultures because your knight in shining armour. sugars until creamy. we think it’s ‘cool’ and “Women of colour are 4. Add the egg, the egg yolk and trendy’” not afforded the same Serves 8 (or 10 if you are on a diet vanilla essence and beat until fluffy. “Black women’s bodies luxury” (which you shouldn’t be)). Don’t 5. Slowly stir in the flour, bicarb have been fetishised, be afraid to get creative with your and salt bit by bit until you have Take music festivals for exam- toppings! formed a thick dough that is not desexualised and thrown ple. It’s seen as ‘edgy’ and ‘cool’ What the girl in the Facebook too wet or sticky. Add a bit more into the mud” when white people wear Native video was really doing was giving Ingredients: flour if still too wet. You should be American headdresses and bindis herself a quick perm, something able to mould a bit into a ball in at festivals. They get likes on their that is widely available in salons and • 2 sandwich cake tins between your hand without it being gloopy Instagrams and reblogs on their frequently done on Caucasian hair. 17cm and 20cm wide (head to and sticking too much. Now first, let’s get something Tumblrs. If white kids go on gap But she chose to sell it as a method Wilko in Cannon Park - super 6. Stir in the chocolate chunks. straight. It’s not that I don’t ap- years and pick up a set of cultural of faking an afro. She made a video cheap!) 7. Grease the cake tins with a bit preciate the beauty of multicul- clothing to wear back at home, that showed white women how to • 400g milk chocolate cut into of butter to stop the cake from turalism and the benefits that can i t ’ s pull a ‘Rachel Dolezal’ purely for large chunks or cubes (use Tes- sticking. come from a society that is aware the sake of vanity. co’s 30p version - I’ve added a bit 8. Place half of the batter in each and open to all of it’s different It’s the modern day black- extra for nibbling along the way. tin and flatten with the back of a styles, cultures and textures. face and given how hard I also added a few smarties as spoon until spread evenly. But we need to be aware women of colour have they were lurking nearby) 9. Place in the oven for 12-15 of lazy ignorance and, in had to fight to have • 170g unsalted butter (buy a basic minutes until slightly golden but the words of College their own unique block for 80p) still soft. Be careful not to over- Humour, ‘Columb- beauty acknowl- • 200g soft light brown sugar (you cook it, the cookie should not be ising’ other people’s edged and can substitute for 200g caster rock solid, it should be slightly cultures and mo- appreciated, sugar but the cookie will not go springy when touched and still ronically claiming instances golden when baked, so be careful soft in the middle (this is how you something for our like this not to overcook) get the chewy/gooey texture when own because we video are • 100g caster sugar cooled) think it’s ‘cool’ more of a • 1 egg 10. Leave the cookie bases to cool and ‘trendy’. spit in the • 1 egg yolk completely, this will allow them to The reason face than • Vanilla essence (this may seem firm up. If you are in a rush then why it’s wrong seen as cool a celebra- expensive but it lasts for years pop them in the fridge for a bit. for white wom- and trendy. If tion of and it is used in almost every 11. Remove the cakes from the tins. en to retort with Topshop or ASOS culture. baking recipe) 12. Top one half with the Nutella/ comments like make something and • 1/2 tsp bicarb of soda (same peanut butter and spread evenly. 13. those made at call it ‘ethnic print’, they concept as the vanilla essence) Place the other cookie on top and the beginning market it to their predom- • 275g plain flour (or slightly decorate it as you please. of this article inantly white, female and more if the batter is still too soft) 14. Take a picture and send it over is down to the teenage clientele know- • 5 tbsp of Nutella or the super- to the Lifestyle Instagram – you matter of privi- ing that it will fly off the markets own brand chocolate might even be re-posted! lege. White wom- shelves. » Photo: spread (or peanut butter if you en have the luxury But when the situation April Spree- prefer) Don’t forget to of being able to delve is reversed, women of col- man / Flickr • And a pinch of salt! tweet us a picture into a cultural ‘pick- our are not afforded this @BoarLifestyle 15 theboar.org/Lifestyle | @BoarLifestyle | LIFESTYLEtheboar.org 15 Drinking and The cruellest way depression e all know that dents who took their own lives in (binge) drinking in England and Wales rose by 50% to reject someone the UK is on the rise. between 2007 and 2011, despite the You’re welcome to break up with Reece Goodall - but do it properly Used in games and number of students as a whole ris- Wnights out as a form of bonding, so- ing by only 14%. Pairing this rise in t’s an almost definite fact of life There are worse ways to do it, one is to tell them no, to put pay cialising and measuring up to what mental illness, with budget cuts to that, as you develop romantic of course, and I got thinking about to the situation, but this keeps the ‘fun’ is defined to be; young 18, 19 the NHS, it is no wonder why stu- feelings for other members of one due to something that hap- flame alive. Qualifying your turn- and twenty-somethings’ like us are dents fall victim to depression and the human race, you are go- pened to me this week. In a beauti- down with ‘at the moment’ stokes thrown into the rollercoaster that the binge drinking culture of today. ing to experience rejection. You’ll fully horrible turn of fate, three girls the coals of hope, suggesting that if is university with a bottle of vodka, The relationship between al- ask someone out, only to be told I had asked out all entered into new you play your cards right, there is a complementary condom and invite cohol and depression is complex. I to every club night henceforth. Alcohol can be used as a coping in no uncertain terms that they do relationships on successive days, chance that you could end up with not feel the same way, and that any and all of them the person you want to be with. If Many agree that alcohol is the mechanism and ultimately exacer- relationship between the two of you do not want to be with some- key to a fun freshers’ fortnight. A bate underlying or previously un- you isn’t going to happen – it can one, planting this thought seems little drink can definitely take the detected depression. Because alco- be no more than a slight in- a very counter-productive and edge off a new, quite intimidating hol is a depressant, it decreases the convenience, or it could be fairly horrible thing to do. environment filled with people we body’s capability to reduce anxiety absolutely crushing, but a And when the person does don’t know and are forced to go out naturally – meaning that the more stamp of rejection lets find someone, it plants with. It makes you feel more com- you drink, the more alcohol need- you know how things even more thoughts in fortable in a strange place you now ed to ‘numb’ the feelings associated stand either way. your mind – did you call home and bonds you instantly with anxiety. For anyone, this binge Now, I’m no miss your chance? to the stranger down the hall. How- drinking can become cyclical and stranger to rejec- What does this ever, drinking centred socials often in many cases is the reason for de- tion (to understate lucky person have mean that alcohol is increasingly pressive episodes in students. For heavily) – finding that you don’t? prevalent throughout university those with depression; estimating a romantic part- Not that I’m life. And, when ‘letting off steam’ the right amount to drink in or- ner is somewhat suggesting this is means “letting us get through half a der to maintain the initial feelings difficult when an intentionally bottle of Tesco’s value rum”, the cul- of euphoria becomes much hard- you’ve got a face malicious thing, ture seems almost dangerous. er. On the other hand, it becomes like a cave-in in nor am I sug- Did you know that according to even more likely to crash down into a shit mine and gesting that it is the NHS, about 1 in 3 men and 1 in anxiety due to alcohol’s depressive your personality is the responsibility 6 women may develop some sort of traits. It is clear that students of- only award-win- of the person be- health problem caused by alcohol? ten find themselves harming their ning if you’re gun- ing asked to let the Even more relevant are the results mental health by falling victim to ning for a couple asker down gently – of the Student Beans 2011 survey, the viscous cyclicality of drinking of Razzies – and I’ve indeed, feelings aren’t which found that out of 2000 stu- culture. noticed a lot of range a thing that you can dents: In 2015, the International Busi- in the many putdowns control, and it is unfair 1) 37% could not remember how ness Times stated that a quarter I’ve received. to suggest that someone they got home after a night out. of the UK population will suffer In all frankness, I would may be cruel for not sharing 2) 1 in 2 have missed a lecture or from a form of mental illness, with prefer someone to be as blunt them. I fully appreciate that be- a seminar because they drank too mixed anxiety and depression be- as possible if they have to turn ing put on the spot by being asked much the night before. ing the most common. Because of someone down. ‘No’ is as clear as out can be equally as horrible as 3) More than a third have been this, it is really important that we anything – it truly puts a matter to used the same rejec- being turned down (which, inex- injured after drinking. as students are more conscious of bed, and it leaves both parties free tion when I had asked them out. plicably, I have also experienced). It is extremely likely that you or how common mental illness is and to move on. It doesn’t have to be That rejection was the following: ‘I However, it does seem a fair someone you know can identify adapt our culture to support those (and rarely is) horrible, and I still am not interested in a relationship thing to talk about – if you’re going with one of these statistics. But, it who endure it. Alcohol should by remain good friends with a number at the moment.’ to turn someone down, for whatev- is also very possible to know some- no means be the central focus of the of ladies who have turned me down And this rejection is the ab- er reason, that’s entirely your pre- one connected to the even darker modern university experience. It is because no ambiguity is hanging in solute cruellest that I can think rogative. But why not make sure aspects of binge drinking at univer- the universities, students unions the air. Phrase it how you want – of, for the sole reason that it does that you actually do it? sity: it is a complete lifestyle change and students themselves that are ‘I’m not interested in you,’ for ex- not do the job it is supposed to do. and has the potential to uproot responsible to make this a reality. ample – but it gets the job done. The whole point of rejecting some- » Photo: Nicholas Raymond / Flickr one’s mental health. According to the Guardian, the number of stu- Ashmita Chakraborty Freshers fashion: have confidence in your look eginning university can be your inside, you’ll be getting a new can share wardrobes. Speaking as disastrous and successful fashion no idea what you looked like before daunting to say the least. sense of fashion as well as confi- someone who was once forced to experiences alike can be part of university - embrace the chaos and But as you begin to settle in dence, when you experiment with once go on a night out despite be- the intense bonding process you changes that student life brings. As to the glorified building site a bolder look that represents who ing locked out of my room, being experience with your housemates. a world-weary final year, you may Bwhere you will spend the next three you are now to people that cannot able to completely borrow someone Whether consciously or uncon- look back with horror at some of years, enjoy the toxic embrace of compare you to your past self. Man else’s ensemble is invaluable. sciously, your changes in appear- your riskier choices (I am think- the daily takeaway and get comfort- buns, underwear as outwear and ance will be shaped by the people, ing of a turquoise leotard that was able with the bunch of randomers those patterned leggings that your “Being able to places and experiences of universi- Missguided by name and misguid- selected to live with you (for better parents said made you look like experiment with different ty. Although your appearance does ed by nature), but it is those fashion or worse), a newfound confidence Bertie Bassett - they are all possible not in any way dictate how much choices that help you remember will be discovered. now. clothes allows you to you enjoy your student experience, your time at university and become Whilst you immediately notice Although reinventions are often embrace the student being able to experiment with dif- a more independent and confident that you are no longer afraid of limited to first year nap enthusiasts lifestyle and be who you ferent clothes, hair styles and ac- person. After all - when everything walking into a room of strangers starting to spend most of their time want to be.” cessories allows you to embrace the from stiletto heels to pointy elf (you’ll become an expert at offer- in pyjamas, living with people your student lifestyle and be who you slippers have frequented seminar ing up your A Level Results/life own age gives you the chance to want to be. rooms in the past, it is unlikely that story/favourite alcohol-related an- watch people become more com- Your fashion evolution at War- Instead of being constantly ex- people will bat more than an eyelid ecdote for their entertainment), it fortable in their own skin. Often wick will not be the same without posed to a social rhetoric that ex- at what you wear to your Thursday often takes longer to recognise how your housemates are the people these people. From “show stop- pects you to be ashamed of your 9am. (If you actually make it there.) your fashion choices have changed best equipped to inspire you to ping” looks for the Freshers Party, own appearance, at Warwick you across the first term of university. try out new looks, as living on top to groaning at the money disap- can wear what you like. Campus is Laura Cunliffe-Hall As your outside catches up with of one another means that you pearing from your bank account, a colourful place where people have 16 Black History Month

Melanated Minds: power and prose There is no one better than Akala to introduce Black History Month, states Amber Lascelles

» Akala a.k.a Kingslee Daley visited Leamington’s Assembly this week for the flagship event / Photo: benpuch / Flickr

rriving at the Zephyr Lounge, I could Akala, a.k.a Kingslee Daley, took to the rican Saturday school and read Malcolm X took questions from the audience, which is sense that Warwick Black History stage around 8pm, launching straight into his at the age of 9. We learnt that in 30BC, the where things got really interesting. A few Month’s launch night ‘Melanated incredibly engaging lecture by talking about first people on Earth were from Africa; that controversial questions from students, such Minds’ was about to be no ordinary student aspects of Ancient Egyptian history that Africans were present in America and the as “what do you think about cultural appro- event.A It had attracted a huge, mixed crowd have been buried by the dominant Eurocen- Caribbean before Columbus; and that Tim- of like-minded people, some non-students, tric culture. We have all seen films and been buktu is a real place that became fabled to some hip hop fans, all gathered to hear Akala to museums where the Egyptians of this pe- Europeans because of the riches that could Akala came across as a genuine, drop some knowledge about black history. riod are portrayed as lighter skinned, when be found there. Importantly, Akala did not real, down to earth guy whose Although the event started slightly late, there is so much evidence that suggests they romanticise African history. The societies ideas and knowledge have the this gave the attendees a chance to grab a were predominantly black Africans. Akala he talked about had class hierarchies akin to potential to become even more drink, mingle and enjoy a great warm up illustrated the fact with photos of Pharaoh many other civilisations. “We’ve been taught influential. playlist featuring Nas and Outkast. The sculptures whose features had been mutilated that black history isn’t universal”, he stat- night kicked off with an energetic perfor- to make them look less African. He encour- ed, and the amount of information he con- mance from EQHQ street dance group, set- aged the audience to participate by asking densed into two hours served to prove that ting the tone for the next hour dedicated to questions, such as where the term ‘Ethiop’ black history is in fact global history. priation?” had the whole crowd engaged in showcasing some of Warwick’s most talented derived from (the Greek). In summary, Aka- Akala’s anecdotes kept the dense informa- debate, calling out their opinions. Another spoken word artists and poets. Themes of la’s research evidences how African people tion lively; for example, one teacher didn’t student asked Akala if he advocates violence race, belonging, and life experiences were ap- were an essential part of the very beginnings take kindly to young Kingslee challenging against oppression. In true Akala style, his proached creatively. Rami Yasir took one for of human history. her statement that William Wilberforce sin- answers were frank and honest: “I don’t ad- the team by going first to step up to the mic, Akala’s knowledge of indigenous black gle handedly abolished slavery. He concluded vocate violence in all situations - but I’m not and his honest bars had the audience laugh- history was astonishingly detailed. There was with a bibliography full of further research, in any way a pacifist.” a lot to take in, but the facts were fascinating. including Africa in History by Basil David- I agree with Akala’s view that Britain needs His interest in learning about true black his- son and Remembering the Dismembered to “change the way that things are taught” Akala’s knowledge of tory started young, as he attended a Pan-Af- Continent by Ayi Kweh Armah. Akala then because the current curriculum is, and always indigenous black history was has been, colonial and out-dated. Although astonishingly detailed. I didn’t manage to get my photo taken with him because it was getting late (gutted!), Akala came across as a genuine, real, down to earth guy whose ideas and knowledge have the potential to become even more influen- ing along with him. I personally really en- tial. joyed both Tolu and Amaka’s brilliant read- In all honesty, if you missed this event- you ings of their poetry, delivered with passion missed out! However, there are still so many and heart. Next, Teju led a conversation on Black History Month events to attend most stage about black women’s experiences from days and evenings in October. childhood to now, featuring Jessica from The Make sure you follow Warwick Anti-Racism Black Women’s Project and Nia from Let’s Society’s page on Facebook for further informa- Talk Black. The massive round of applause tion on where and when to attend the events. confirmed that there is definitely an impres- sive pool of talent at Warwick! » Akala, with all of the different societies in- volved with BHM / Photo: Amber Lascelles 17 Black History Month The New Black: Do we live The fetishisation of in a post racial society? the black body he first panel discussion of Black His- happened. But we need to move on from exuality and blackness is a topic which colonisers became obsessed with African tory Month attracted a crowd of stu- that.” I feel needs to be talked about far more women’s larger breasts and bums. Aborigi- dents eager to express their views on Most of the audience thought this was a openly in a society where black bodies nal people were shockingly classified as ‘flora the controversial idea of our current society dangerous comment to make, because his- are continuously objectified within the me- and fauna’ and seen as inferior. A video ex- beingT beyond racial biases. tory cannot simply be forgotten. Common Sdia. plained the history of the Hottentot Venus, BHM Coordinator Mems Ayinla intro- had been described as an ‘Uncle Tom’ on Therefore, I was really looking forward an African woman who was taken from her duced the forum, explaining how in recent Twitter, and the panel dissected what they to this informal discussion held by Warwick tribe and paraded in front of Western au- years she had heard the term ‘post racial’ used thought this term meant. Chidi explained collective Let’s Talk Black. Debbie, Abisola diences because her body shape was seen as by people she knew and in the media. She ex- that this phrase can be used offensively to and Nia founded the group because they freakish. The video sparked a debate about plained that this term buys into a belief that signify ‘whiteness’- for example, achieving felt that issues which particularly affected black women’s agency in the present, and society is now ‘colour blind’, meaning that good grades and being well spoken. black people were marginalised at less di- how sexuality shouldn’t be seen as negative; the majority of people do not have prejudices However, some students disagreed verse universities like Warwick. They it is a way for black women to control their based on other people’s skin colour, and that with using celebrities as a measure aimed to create a space where own image and positive self-worth. racism is pretty much a thing of the past. of how society really is. One these issues could be brought Because of the informal atmosphere, the She introduced the speakers on the pan- student believed that people to the forefront, and the discussion allowed everybody to express their el, writer and former Warwick student Yomi in the public eye are en- large turnout for this event experiences freely, in a way that was relatable. Adegoke who founded Birthday Magazine, a titled to their individual showed that their vision The audience gave their honest opinions on publication that focuses on race, popular cul- opinion too, and another is definitely needed at topics like interracial relationships, and how ture and intersectional feminism. The second said that the reason why Warwick. harmful it has been that blackness has been speaker was Chidi Amadi, the Director of these artists’ race doesn’t The discussion began appropriated as ‘fashion’ by white female ce- Education Policy in King’s College London’s effect them because they with the direct question; lebrities. I thought it was interesting to hear Think Tank. have become so rich and what does the word ‘fet- perceptions from students who had lived in To spark the debate, a clip from a recent successful, their lives are ish’ mean to you? It was other countries, like the Netherlands and Pharrell Williams interview was shown, stat- beyond racial disadvan- defined broadly as an Germany. Interestingly, Nia explained that it ing that he personally “did not let his race tages. I agreed that Kanye obsession with something was much harder to find research on the fet- hold him back”. Panellist Yomi explained that West’s opinion that ‘racism is abnormal. When applied to ishisaton of the black male body. Although she didn’t agree with the term ‘New Black’ dead’ needed to be taken with a a whole race, it becomes a de- there were men in the audience, it was disap- because it implies that there is an ‘old black’; pinch of salt. To me, he seems more grading way to objectify a person pointing not to have had more male opinions people who choose to complain about rac- interested in personal gain than helping and dehumanise them. Let’s Talk Black on how they feel the black male body is made ism. Many students thought that Pharrell’s those who still experience racism. wanted to confront the problematic men- into a fetish within popular culture, and how statement was similar to accusing people of In my opinion, race needs to be seen, be- tality that allows black women and men to it effects how they are perceived. colour of ‘using the race card’, which is un- cause it is a marker of cultural differences be sexually objectified, in the media and in An important point to take away from the derstandably offensive and undermines the which must be understood to form a suc- real life. The audience were asked to share event is that in the internet age, people must social reality of racism. Considering present cessful and cohesive society. Although there their thoughts on whether they felt they take responsibility for their own education. global issues like police brutality and ‘islamo- was no final conclusion to the broad topics had been victims of fetishisation; for exam- There are no excuses for cultural ignorance phobia’, the statement is especially damaging. discussed, it was great to be a part of a lively ple, called “exotic”, touched inappropriately that causes the objectification and degrada- The most provocative quote was rapper and at times heated debate that challenged or stereotyped. tion of other people, whose culture may not Common’s, who recently commented: “white the perception of what it means to be black Let’s Talk Black briefly explained the his- be the dominant one. Only then can people people, ya’ll did us wrong. We know that in 2015. torical background behind black bodies be- begin to think critically about mentalities ing seen as a ‘fetish’. For example, European that continue to be harmful to black people. ArtSoc showcases multi-cultural models

“Warwick Artsoc have showed their support by creating portraits of prominent black figures. While some interpreted the idea by drawing influential political figures from history such as Nelson Mandela , Artsoc exec Yi Ying Lim chose to sketch Misty Copeland, a leading American ballet dancer, recognising the under represented role of black women in history and today. Artsoc aim to continue this work by increasing the number of multi- cultural life drawing models in their sessions held twice a week.” Claire Laslett, ArtSoc president

50th Anniversary his edition will look at the “Festival of Imagination” - the flagship event run by the University for this year covering everything from notable speakers events and discussions; to innovation and the Tquality of research that can be seen at Warwick today. Here are our picks:

The Festival

of Imagination » Photos: The Boar Photography

50 years in 50 minutes Simply Scoff 2.0 What is corruption? Solving Inequality Natalya Smith Lauren Hurrell Sarah Morland Robert Ebenburger

he Arts Centre’s guide to the rom the ‘Vegetable Splodge’ of the he first answer, in response to the he panellists were Georgia Gould, Festival promised a “whistle-stop 1970s to the ‘Seafood Chow Mein’ of awkwardly-positioned university a Labour politician, Tony Atkinson, tour of the last 50 years on campus today, Simply Scoff 2.0 looks at how logo on the title slide, was ‘Warwick.’ an Oxford economist, and Stewart and the wider world” with “surprise walk-on cooking has changed over the last forty years (Don’t worry, Sir Nigel, it’s a joke!) After Lansley, Bristol academic and author. experiencesT from some familiar faces.” Fthrough the latest Warwick collaborative someT dark chuckling and slight technical TheT discussion was chaired by the BBC’s It featured guest speaker and Warwick cookbook. difficulties, star speaker Laurence Cockcroft home editor Mark Easton. There was no alumnus, Philip Collins, a columnist for The Led by Professor of History Rebecca Earl, a tackled the question. representative for Warwick. Times and Tony Blair’s former speechwriter. panel of past and present University members Mr Cockcroft is a founding member The three writers approached a solution Collins’ speech focused on the rise of - including former BBC correspondent Torin and former chairmen of Transparency to inequality from different angles. Mr Warwick as a leading British university Douglas, author of Simply Scoff 1.0 Serena International UK, with extensive experience Atkinson advocated profound policy reform, amongst a backdrop of social, cultural and Macbeth, and SU president Isaac Leigh - working in Africa and a lauded anti- with a more effective inheritance tax and political changes since 1965. examined the culinary shift from the 1970s. corruption book to his name. He began better child support as two propositions. However, while Collins gave a broad Back then, a tin opener and a saucepan by setting out the 6 so-called ‘types’ of Mr Lansley defended the idea of a new overview of the University’s progress in were all you needed, whereas today finding corruption. Most importantly, Mr Cockcroft economic set-up as a necessary long-term relation to the world around it, he did so a George Forman grill in your kitchen would emphasised that corruption is a spectrum: no reform, based on co-operative businesses. alone. The only “familiar faces” appeared be no great surprise. country is completely free of it, and no less Ms Gould called for a re-engagement in the form of pictures and YouTube Next to them, in a kitchen setup every first our own. of politics with the youth, and vice versa, clips of successful Warwick alumni, from year dreams of having (but would probably This led us nicely onto banking scandals, to balance out an “inequality of [political] entertainers Ruth Jones, Frank Skinner and have no idea what to do with), University MP expenses and MI5 covert ops. But power.” Stephen Merchant, to politicians including Development Chef Graham Crump whipped Warwick’s Mark Philp brought us back While the debate might have been hardly Valerie Amos, Wendy Alexander and Estelle up recipes from the old and new cookbooks to the title question. After poking holes controversial on such grounds, the audience Morris. – and served them to the audience, a definite in the various accepted definitions of the confronted the panel with provocative Collins discussed the increasing interest highlight of the discussions. word, he concluded that it is the public’s questions. over time in Warwick’s economic value and The panel also reflected on the shrinking extreme vilification of the concept which They had a positive impression of the scholarship, visiting milestone events both gender divide in cooking talent: Douglas actually impedes our ability to tackle serious event. Sophie Metcalfe, a teenager, liked that for the University and worldwide. commented that in the past, having a corruption appropriately. the social detachment of many young people Nick Crabtree, a first year Classics student, girlfriend often meant ‘living in the lap of Inevitably, perhaps, the discussion was a main topic. Her mother, Pamela, liked said that the talk “made [him] feel excited to culinary luxury’. Now, students of all genders came back to Warwick with a question that the debate was not an ideological one; be a student at Warwick and be a part of its are cooking expert meals alike. from the floor: “It is true that it is seldom instead, she appreciated the constructive constant move forward, especially considering However, the question arose as to how acknowledged where funding comes from,” debate of policy options. that it’s a relatively young university.” realistic some of the recipes in the new began Mark Knights, a History professor. First year Engineering student Álvaro cookbook are - as wyou would be hard “I’m going to dodge that question.” Clavo Vallejo found Collins’ speech witty and pressed to find a fresher stocking crème Ultimately, Mr Cockcroft concluded that » Find full reviews was impressed by his ability to educate and fraiche or chia seeds in their fridge. change must come from within: “And what and coverage online at entertain his audience. better place than Warwick to start?” www.theboar.org

21

Editor: Alexander Shaw Finance [email protected] Employment rate reaches record high Alexander Shaw talks newly released jobless figures by the Office for National Statistics here you have it! Statistics “This is a fantastic set of Leamington is now 581st out of released this week by the figures, which show more the 650 national constituencies for Office for National Statis- people in work than ever the lowest unemployment rating, a tics has shown the employment before” rise from it’s place in 2010 of 414. rateT accross the United Kingdom Iain Duncan Smith This follows a series of posi- to rise to its highest levels on re- tive news coming from both the cord reaching now 73.6 percent. Conservative press office, but also The Department for Work and Smith said “This is a fantastic set official statistics released from Pensions has pointed out in a press of figures, which show more peo- the Office for National Statistics, release that this equates to 360,000 ple in work than ever before and which, last week, showed the UK ‘s more people in work today than a strong growth in wages. That is earnings growing at its fastest lev- this time last year. What’s more, a credit to British business, and a el since 2009, an inflation-busting the press release also comments credit to the hardworking people rate of 3.4% above inflation. May- on how the unemployment rate of this country”. A common crit- be that plan is working after all? has fallen to 5.4 percent, it’s low- icism of the Government’s eco- est level since early 2008, and half nomic policy is that it is only being the euro-zone average. The figures felt in the South of London, often indeed make for positive reading, limitted to London alone. Howev- with long-term unemployment er Iain Duncan Smith was quick falling by 25 percent over the course to point out that “This positive 25% of the year, and youth unemploy- picture is replicated up and down ment now below it’s pre-crisis level. the country, demonstrating that The fall in long-term Following on from an article fea- this one nation government is de- unemployment over the turing in the previous Finance sec- livering a society with opportunity course of the year tion of The Boar, average wages are and security for all at its heart”. also rising by 3%, a positive outcome When looking closer to home, of George Osborne’s economic plan. the jobless figures look just as When commenting on the re- promising, with the local Mem- cent statistics, reforming Work and ber of Parliament, Chris White pensions Secretary Iain Duncan pointing out that Warwick and » Long term economic plan? / Photo: altogetherfool / Flickr

So we have both sides: Now let’s talk EU Referendum

» Britain remaining in the European Union is split roughly 50:50. The next year will be an interesting time / Photo: MPD01605 / Flickr ecently, a new cross par- backers of Tories, have more than unnecessary costs on them, there- day feel that London’s prominence In the eventuality of a Brexit, most ty campaign that calls for often expressed their exaspera- by significantly hampering their as a global financial centre lies in experts feel that investment banks Britain’s exit from the EU tion over the intense post crisis global competitiveness. Howev- are likely to be hit most consider- was launched. Ever since its in- regulations that the EU adopted er, the news of the Hedge Fund ing they employ many European Rception, the campaign has been after the Global Financial Crisis. industry backing the Vote Leave citizens and most of their Euro- receiving support from promi- campaign has already sent alarm pean Businesses are operated from nent businessmen, politicians and bells ringing in Mr Cameron’s gov- £933 London. Time is thus running out a significant section of the public. Vote Leave is already ernment. To counter the financial for Mr Cameron and his govern- From the financial industry, the causing major problems prowess of the aforementioned How much better off ment to renegotiate Britain’s rela- most high profile donor of this for Mr Cameron, worrying campaign, several top businessmen each family per year tionship with Brussels and prevent campaign is Crispin Odey, one of many Europhiles like Lord Sainsbury have pledged could be if leaving the the EU from its first major casualty. London’s most prominent hedge support to the Vote In Campaign EU according to Change, fund managers. Mr Odey’s decision that has recently been launched. Ehtesham Khurshid is somewhat reflective of the gen- The interesting phenomenon or Go. eral mood of hedge funds across out of all this is that it is poten- the UK who would mostly want to Hedge Fund managers across the tially going to divide opinions in What are the support this campaign, though si- board believe that the EU’s Alter- the City of London. Here is when its ability to tap into the common chances of a Brexit? lently if not openly. In fact, Hedge native Investment Fund Managers investment banks come into the European market and attract the Tell us on Facebook Funds, despite being traditional Directive imposes additional and picture. Most of these banks to- best of talent from across Europe. @BoarFinance [email protected] theboar.org/finance 22 Major shock for Volkswagen over the emissions scandal Elena Prest explores the recent revelations and what we have learnt so far he Volkswagen scandal has been have been affected and around 400,000 will thrust into the press and both the need fuel injectors modified. Already how- markets, and the EU has reacted. ever, the company has put in place a sys- The President of the European Invest- tem to deal with a website where custom- mentT Bank (EIB), has told a German news- ers can find out if they have been affected. paper that it could recall loans that it gave to the company, loans that were, ironically, meant for low emissions engines and research and development into such technology. Reporting last week, Werner Hoyer told £1.3bn Sueddeutsche Zeitung that it could recall The loan that may be recalled by around £1.3bn worth of loans that are still the European Investment Bank outstanding, a part of the 4.6bn Euros that it has lent the company since 1990. The Sueddeutsche Zeitung quoted Mr Hoy- er as saying “The EIB could have taken a hit [from the emissions scandal] because we have to fulfil certain climate targets Mr Willis, the managing director of the with our loans”. Adding to this, he stated VW Group UK apologised “sincerely and that ‘very thorough investigations would unreservedly” for the firm’s conduct, say- be conducted” into the actions of VW. ing that by 2016 the firm hopes to have the Already majorly damaged by the scandal, problem completely resolved. Whilst taking VW has seen shares in recent weeks plum- a hit on the markets, sales have only been re- met, with questions over the jobs of many duced slightly with the other brands remain- senior executives and who was aware that ing stable and unaffected, as pointed out by such rigging was taking place. Further to this, Mr Willis, raising questions about the vol- it has severely damaged the companies global ume of customers that are truly concerned. reputation as a reliable brand that is trying to One thing worth thinking about though, help reduce emissions of it’s vehicles globally. is this just isolated to VW, or merely the This week the Palace of Westminster iceberg of a large series of practices by ma- grilled executives of the UK VW operations, jor car firms around the world? The next with reports that around 1.2million motors few weeks will certainly be interesting. » VW has been the subject of a lot of criticism from campaigners / Photo: Channel 4 @BoarFinance [email protected] theboar.org/Finance 23 Ferrari IPO: Supercar or Superstock? Karim Foad examines the brand and its positioning in the markets

» Ferrari is a major player in luxury sports cars. It’s iconic symbol is recognised world over and it is a leader in Formula One racing / photo: Wikimedia Commons

errari owner Fiat Chrysler As part of its separation from treated more like a luxury-goods ury” is the reason Ferrari thinks it has been making some amazing Automobiles NV is planning Fiat, Ferrari will take on 2.8 billion maker than an auto manufacturer. can command such a price. About cars in recent years and its Formula to sell a 9 percent stake in euros in debt from the company, the “A luxury multiple is justified due half of Ferrari’s current assets con- One team (the original reason for the Italian supercar manufacturer, filing shows, and subsequently issue to Ferrari’s capital intensity, prof- sist of its brand value. “Goodwill” Ferrari’s existence) is very close to Faccording to an SEC filing. The it margins at scaled unit produc- and “intangible assets” are literal- challenging dominant Mercedes. sale will consist of 17.2 million tion, operating leverage and price ly that: assets that don’t exist, ex- It’s unclear how an independent shares of Dutch holding company Here’s the thing: Ferrari inelasticity,” said Adam Wyden, cept as concepts (although they’re Ferrari would operate, but meet- Ferrari NV at $48 to $52 each, ac- does not see itself as a car founder of ADW Capital Partners, backed with powerful intellectual ing federal fuel efficiency standards cording to a filing on Friday with company. It sees itself as a who owns Fiat Chrysler shares. property and copyright claims). could prove tricky, without lots of the U.S. Securities and Exchange At $9.8 billion, Ferrari would be Ferrari, which has made a point Fiat 500s to pull the average MPGs Commission. The shares will luxury company. valued at nearly 35 times its annual- of restricting the number of cars up. There’s also chatter that Ferra- trade on the New York Stock Ex- ized profits for the first six months it makes to just below demand to ri will face increased pressure from change under the symbol RACE. of the year. That may sound like preserve its models’ high-end rep- shareholders to generate more prof- The IPO and eventual full a high multiple for a car compa- utation, is set to push the bound- its. That could mean not only in- spinoff of Ferrari are part of Fiat a projected 2.128 billion euros in ny. In today’s startup bubble, that aries of its exclusivity with plans creasing sales but also adding more Chrysler Chief Executive Of- debt to third parties. Including that valuation makes Ferrari—which to increase production of cars such profitable but less racetrack-friend- ficer Sergio Marchionne’s effort debt, Ferrari will have an enterprise will trade under the ticker symbol as the €235,000 488 Spider con- ly vehicles, like SUVs to its manu- to raise funding to cut the parent value of about $12 billion. That RACE—a “decacorn,” along with vertible to 9000 cars in 2019 from facturing setup. Porsche has done company’s debt and help finance a would be in line with the minimum the likes of Airbnb, Dropbox, Pin- about 7200 vehicles last year, ac- just that, with lots of success, in the 48 billion-euro ($54.5 billion) in- $11.4 billion that Marchionne, terest, and Snapchat. Here’s the cording to a September 22 filing. past decade. But that won’t ease the vestment program that focuses on who’s also the division’s chairman, thing: Ferrari does not see itself The carmaker had previously set sting of seeing a Prancing Horse expanding the Jeep, Alfa Romeo has estimated is appropriate for as a car company. It sees itself as its limit at about 7000 cars a year. seven-seater for the Ferrari purists. and Maserati nameplates globally. a brand he contends should be a luxury company. The word “lux- Founded in 1947, the company Chinese manufac- turing contraction ould the days of China being suggesting a growth of (only) 6.4%. the manufaturing capital of Whilst in the face of potentially the world be coming to an damning news, the markets have end? reacted fairly positively, with the CIn recent weeks the Chinese Hang Seng in Hong Kong rising manufacturing sector has been to 1.4% and the trade in Tokyo struggling to maintain momentum, up 1.9%, as reported by the BBC’s with the sector contracting for the Bussiness Editor. However, accross second consecutive month. Asia, Index readings appear less than positive, possibly signalling future problems facing the conti- nent. 7% Alexander Shaw the official estimatation of expected growth this year

Whilst officials remain optimis- Search “The tic that China will still experience Boar Finance” on relatively massive growth compared Facebook to get with the West, the figure is doubt- involved! » A relative slowdown in the Chinese economy may stop major investment projects / Photo: Wikimedia Commons ful to be hit, with in fact the market 24 Sponsored by:

Editor: Sophie Dudhill Arts [email protected] Arts Column Broaden your mind to Archive or Art? three dimensional design Sophia Pardon attends the current Mead Gallery exhibition entitled ‘Making it’

his exhibition marks the emergence floor, almost like a skidding track mark. of young artists in the late 1970s Again this creates the sensation of a menac- who started to revolutionise sculpt- ing moment being interrupted. ing. Many visualise sculptures as heavy busts When reading the programme I saw that n an age where digital media seems to of Tinfluential people. However these creators Woodrow was interested in scavenging and permeate every corner of our lives, the began to expand the world of sculpture, using transforming everyday materials. This scav- theatre is one of the last tech-free oases. second hand materials. enging nature was a new form of art, giving Recording is strictly forbidden, cameras are Making it displays a collection of UK art- objects a new meaning. Ibanished, and smartphone use is sacrilege. ists who achieve this. It makes the viewer Tony Cragg displayed this same technique However, the theatre world has increas- think about the possibilities of objects, and in his piece Postcard Flag (Union Jack) which ingly begun to adapt to the technological age. how materials and objects may have more uses found objects to deconstruct the false These hitherto banned devices are working that one purpose or meaning. This is a play- perception of our perfect nation. He used the their way not only into the theatre, but onto ful exhibition, as each artist has experiment- objects to assemble a Union Jack flag on the the stage itself. ed with and manipulated materials in new wall, making it during the time of the mar- I first noticed this trend in the National inventive ways. riage of Charles and Diana. Theatre’s 2013 production of Edward II, This was a time of national pride and roy- where actors wielding cameras projected the alism. He seems to deconstruct this notion action live above the stage. This is a playful exhibition, by creating an anti-establishment rawness, More recently the Young Vic’s Measure for as each artist has experimented juxtaposed against the bright colours which Measure and The Oresteia at Trafalgar Stu- with and manipulated materials exude this false appearance of wholeness and dios have adopted the same techniques, and in new inventive ways. perfection. Complicite’s The Encounter at Warwick Arts I could go through all the sculptures with- Centre made stunning use of sound; equip- in the exhibition in this manner however I ping the audience with headphones to create wanted to highlight these three as I felt they a very personal, intimate atmosphere. When walking around the space, I felt a » Richard Wilson’s Say Chees (1984) encapsulated what this exhibition was about.. As well as the intrusion of our digital lives division in the layout, one side of the room Photo: Warwick Arts Centre It demonstrates how young UK artists in the on stage, broadcasting productions live to certainly took my interest more than the late 70s changed sculpture as a form of art. cinemas has proven hugely popular. The pro- other. The lead for the camera was extended out They all look at moments and concepts by ponents of schemes such as National Theatre As I walked to the right side of the room, of the side, as if in mid-motion and together taking objects and giving them a new mean- Live argue they bring theatregoing, with its the sculptures were smaller and to me felt it appeared this was a camera mid-shot. ing. As an artist it made me think about the excessive price tag and bourgeois reputation, disconnected from the rest of the exhibition. The artist has recreated and captured a possibility of mundane things and how so to a mass audience. I suppose this was because they felt less lively, fleeting moment in time using such a heavy much can be constructed from things you However, there are undoubtedly knock-on using materials I expected. industrial material which I found extremely don’t expect. effects to viewing a filmed production over However when I explored to the left of the interesting. I also enjoyed that the exhibition had an a live one. After seeing the Barbican’s Ham- exhibition I was confronted by Richard Wil- As I walked around the space I saw other interactive section which laid out paper, pens, let starring Benedict Cumberbatch in person son’s Say Cheese (1984); a camera placed on artists capturing these moments in time, such foil, plasticine and other objects. I was fasci- and on screen I thought there were some ele- a three-legged tripod constructed from cast as Bill Woodrow’s Tattoo (1983) which used nated with seeing what sculptures other visi- ments unfortunately lost in translation. and aluminium. The piece was industrial, part of a New York City Yellow cab door, tors had made. The haunting first moment of the play with an uneven surface. Out of the top of the and a panther made of black fabric pouncing Making it made me understand the poten- where Nat King Cole’s “Nature Boy” re- camera extended a piece which resembled onto the door. tial of materials and broadened my mind in sounded throughout the audience could not the camera flash. He uses this fabric to spread across the terms of three-dimensional design. produce the same extraordinary effect with- out the acoustics of a massive auditorium. On the other hand, in a spine-tingling mo- ment Cumberbatch is able to deliver Ham- let’s “Am I a villain?” directly down the lens Warwick Arts Centre receives over 300 of the camera, bridging the distance between the actor and the cinema-going audience. So are these growing technological trends student job applications in a fortnight an inclusive innovation for the digital gen- eration, or merely a gimmick that intrudes on the theatre-going experience? The Warwick Arts centre was inundated with applications from new students In my opinion, the use of technological advances in theatre, and screenings such as he Arts Centre is a constant provider you that extra money you might need but NT Live, are a positive sign for the future of of student opportunity and employ- also brings a wealth of experience because the medium. When technology contributes ment. you are working with a real organisation, the to the storytelling it can bring something This year student involvement is off to a biggest of its kind outside of London, with new and exciting to the table. flyingT start with over 100 applications for top theatre companies and creative teams. However, I add this proviso: theatre-mak- performance stewards, 80 of whom were suc- The effort of the Arts Centre to involve ers should be cautious of replacing experi- cessful and a further 150 applicants for gal- the student body had been abundantly clear. encing a production in person with some- lery stewards, with 50 successful. It shows their acknowlegement and appre- thing that proves to be a mediocre muddle As well as this they have had applications caition of the student community. of filtering great theatre into clumsily-shot for casual marketing assistants and student Although it can sometimes seeem daunt- cinema or of creating an archive rather than ambassadors. ing to enter into a place where you might just a piece of art. If you spot someone behaving strangely on see a member of the general public, the Arts Siobhan Brennan the piazza or approaching you with creative Centre is clearly welcoming student with tasks this is most likely the Student Ambas- open arms and providing great employment sadors who can give you information about opportunity in a central campus location and student deals at the Arts Centre. a buzzing atmosphere. What’s your opinion on the As well as this there are also box office To find out more and if there are any further increasing use of technology roles and marketing internships recruited roles available visit the Warwick Arts Centre amoung the arts? every Autumn and Summer. website: Tweet: @BoarArts Working for the Arts Centre not only gets www.warwickartscentre.co.uk/students/. @BoarArts [email protected] theboar.org/Arts 25 Preview: ‘The Faithless Healer’ Jess Jackson meets the cast and crew of the latest Freshblood student written play

» A section of the dynamic design of The Faithless Healer’s promotional material / Photos: Freshblood

he Faithless Healer, an original piece The rather large cast of ten alongside co- written by Sam George is bound to directors Ella Tebay and Samuel Thorogood make you smile. have all worked together in developing the Although I only witnessed a characters and their interaction with each few minutes of a work-in-progress scene, I other. foundT myself laughing a lot and was utterly When speaking to the cast, they told me impressed with the standard I was seeing, the experience had been very physical in the despite it only being a rehearsal. The brand workshops and that it was really nice being new piece of writing by George is witty, clev- part of a performance which was so focused er and full of fun. around the ensemble. The piece focuses around Mary, played With The Faithless Healer being the first excellently by Alice Byrne, and her struggles student production of the year, the cast and over the healing powers she has been blessed crew are all extremely excited for the piece with. being taken to The Warwick Arts Centre in Week 4. I have to say, the ensemble were extremely The brand new piece of writing strong. The entire cast were completely com- by George is witty, clever and full mitted to their roles and I was lucky enough of fun. to witness them at their strongest: speaking » Jess Jackson and the cast at rehearsal / Photo: Jess Jackson in unison along side strong physical work. The directors have been very clever with the ensemble which portrays a real sense of joyable evening. their staging, having the ensemble on their community throughout. However there are only four performances The Faithless Healer centres around the knees praising the character of Mary in the The cast all work extremely well as a co- so don’t miss out! Catch thids show at the remote village in which Mary lives and the scene I witnessed. hort and I got a real sense of a strong cast Warwick Arts Centre in the Studio during- community’s focus on religion and how faith The acting from each character looks to and crew relationship which was really im- Week 4. brought this miracle of Mary’s powers to be exceptional, with a number of different portant to see in the rehearsal process. Don’t forget to keep an eye out on the them. accents being performed at different mo- This show is definitely not to be missed. Freshblood presents The Faithless Healer’s However Mary herself struggles with the ments. Not only is it the premier of a brand new Facebook page for their upcoming fundraiser concept of faith, causing the community to The way in which George has written the piece of student written theatre, it will also ‘Boozy Village Fete’ next week. backfire. piece creates a strong sense of narration from bring a smile to your face and be a really en- » The Faithless Healer cast in rehearsal Photos: Freshblood 31 News 26

Editor: Lucy Skoulding Books [email protected] The Rule of Three A Walk on the Wild Side Boar Books writers discuss their favourite trilogies Nicola Paling reviews Cheryl Strayed’s best-selling novel, Wild

ild is a true memoir about a wom- epic journey, especially when she begins to » Photo: Wikimedia Commons an’s decision to hike over 1,000 question whether the whole idea was a mis- Wmiles on the Pacific Crest Trail en- take. Something I am sure we have all been tirely by herself. At the age of 26 and at rock through, no matter the scale of the issue. The Land of Ingary Millenium bottom, Cheryl Strayed decided to that the The book constantly moves between the best way to confront her past was to go on past and present, with Strayed’s traumatic Diana Wynne-Jones Steig Larsson a very long walk. A past being careful- three-month one to ly woven into her s a fan of Studio Ghibli’s 2004 anime he Millennium series by Steig Larsson be precise. physical journey. It film, Howl’s Moving Castle, imagine was made famous by The Girl with the Subtitled “A seems to be the act Amy delight when I discovered that, TDragon Tattoo. It’s tragic and explo- Journey From Lost of walking that al- not only was the film based on a book, but sive, yet full of hope for its lovable heroine. to Found”, it is im- lows her to come to that the book is part of The Land of Ingary Published post-humously, Larsson’s novels mediately evident terms with her past. Trilogy. follow the dynamic and destructive Lisbeth that this is not sim- I won’t spoil it for The books are wonderfully descriptive, Salander as she battles atrocities committed ply a book about you, but the very last with the first, Howl’s Moving Castle, depict- against her and other women by her govern- walking. Instead, line of the book left ing the town of Market Chipping and life ment and male citizens. Strayed takes the me in tears, and it is within Howl’s castle perfectly. It fully im- We meet Lisbeth in the first book, as she reader on a journey not often that books merses the reader in the land of Ingary and investigates Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist through her own make me cry. This the perilous adventures of the main charac- hired to look into the disappearance of a girl experience of death, is a genuinely inspi- ters, Sophie, Howl and Calcifer, as they seek in the 1960s. Her lack of social graces, ev- divorce, a series of rational read, and to undo the spells cast upon them by the ident intelligence and hard exterior should failed jobs and her- proves that there is Witch of the Waste. feel jarring, yet there is something spectac- oin addiction, all of truth in some of the The second book, Castle in the Air, fol- ular and warm that makes us care for her which finally led to clichés we are bom- lows the story of Abdullah, a carpet sales- until we too want to tattoo ‘I’m a rapist pig’ her decision to hike barded with. Per- man from the desert lands South of Ingary. on the belly of the man that harmed her. the trail. haps the most im- When his love, Flower-in-the-Night, is ab- Lisbeth’s bad luck continues in The Girl Throughout the portant thing to take ducted by a genie he leaves his homeland to who Played with Fire, as she is framed for book, we see both away being that if rescue her on a magic carpet. At first it is the murders of two investigative journalists the extreme emo- you step out of your difficult to understand the link between this hired by Blomkvist to expose the Swedish tional and physical comfort zone, amaz- book and the first, however a twist half-way sex slave business. Blomkvist risks his own pain Strayed expe- ing things can hap- through re-introduces some familiar char- life in effort to prove Lisbeth’s innocence. riences on her jour- pen. Strayed is now acters and reveals them as being pivotal to Though not as explosive as the first book, it ney. Her decision famous for her moti- the plot. was equally compelling and possibly darker, to literally step into vational talks which The protagonist of House of Many Ways as you might expect from a writer who has the woods alone, have come about as is the book-obsessed Charmaine, who is themselves witnessed a rape. with next to no a result of this book forced to look after a wizard’s house whilst The third book, The Girl who Kicked the hiking experience, being published and he is away. The doors in his house bend Hornets Nest, offers no respite. Larsson fear- is presented as both incredibly brave and a it is not hard to see why. space and time and it is not long before lessly charges into Lisbeth’s past and the bit foolhardy, something which she admits Now having read it three times, Wild has Charmaine and the wizard’s hapless ap- suffering she has endured, sending Blom- to herself. become one of my all-time favourite books. prentice, Peter, meet Sophie and are swept kvist to the rescue. It is Lisbeth who even- She does not attempt to romanticise the Even if you’re not a big fan of travel writing away to uncover a conspiracy which could tually saves herself, despite being shot three walk, and so we experience the very realistic or memoirs, I would recommend this book threaten the King’s life. times and getting buried alive (a little un- demands of undertaking such a physically to anyone, purely for the sense of determina- The trilogy is full of clever twists and believable, perhaps, but nonetheless badass). challenging journey, with vivid descriptions tion which propels the story forward. surprises, delivering edge-of-the-seat sus- Millennium has everything: intrigue, sex, of the injuries she acquires along the way. In fact, I would say it is impossible to read pense as well as real comic moments. It is a scandal, raw human emotion and the terror This, coupled with her age and inexperience, this book without feeling inspired in some refreshing take on traditional sci-fi writing, that comes when the truth is brought to life. ensures the book is easy to relate to. way. Ultimately it shows that there is some- delivered in Wynne-Jones’ extremely reada- An un-put-downable must-read. We are not alienated by technical lan- thing wild in all of us, but it is only when ble and charming style. guage or feel like we are being lectured to, we take a leap of faith that we discover what but instead we can emphasise with Strayed’s » Photo: Tammy Strobel /Flickr Rachel Brooks Simran Kaur Sandhu this is. Why I’m still charmed by Ron and Hermione

s one of the most beloved couples in compatibility” between them, and “in an author’s brainchild. in confidence and realises his potential. With children’s literature, Ron and Hermi- some ways Hermione and Harry For those who have taken her re- Ron, Hermione learns to prioritise doing the Aone’s journey - from antagonism, to are a better fit”. marks to heart I say this: aren’t right thing over strict adherence to the rules. friendship, to burgeoning romance, and fi- These comments pro- most successful fictional de- Wish fulfilment or not, Ron and Hermi- nally wedded bliss - bewitched a generation. voked misleading head- pictions of romance a form one’s relationship provides an essential func- In recent revelation that rocked the Twit- lines in the press and a of wish fulfilment? Close tion. They subvert the common trope that tersphere, J.K. Rowling made a startling an- downright furore in the friends who become some- ‘the hero gets the girl’, that you somehow nouncement. fandom. She admitted thing more; the antagonis- ‘earn’ the affection of the desirable female in her inflammatory re- tic relationship that masks the room. It opens up the space for a strong The pairing was a “form of wish marks were tantamount a secret mutual attraction; friendship between Harry and Hermione to “Potter heresy!” these elements only make and - pardon the pun - dispels the myth that fulfilment” So does an author’s ret- us root for Ron and Hermi- men and women can’t be friends. rospective opinion of her one more. Now there’s a pairing worth fighting for. work, years after publica- As for “fundamental in- tion, necessarily matter more compatibility”, I would counter Siobhan Brennan According to the creator of the series, the than any other opinion? I would J.K.’s opinion. Ron and Hermione pairing was a “form of wish fulfilment” for argue not. Once a piece of literature balance out each other’s faults. With » Photos: en.wikimedia.org and commons. her, there was “too much fundamental in- is out there it becomes something more than Hermione, often-overshadowed Ron grows wikimedia.org 27

Editor: Jack Prevezer Travel [email protected] Inspiring Iceland Tessa Schiller investigates the mysterious Scandinavian nation

his summer I didn’t really do much with my life, and then it all started falling apart. When my dad suggested we go on a hol- idayT I wasn’t really in the place to suggest somewhere where you ‘do things’. Iceland is definitely a place where you can do a hell of a lot of ‘things’ but you can also sit in a car and drive, and drive, and drive some more. I’ve never been so overwhelmed by a land- scape. It was constantly changing, often in- credibly harsh, but also beautiful. The whole place seemed to scream of iso- lation. A solitary landscape, perfect for my grumpy self. We went to the Western Fjords (“now I understand why the parrot was pin- ing”) and saw waterfalls, ’ominous cumu- lonimbus formations’ and even picked up a hitchhiker in bright colours who was visiting from Poland. The highlight was the final day though: the glaciers which flood into the sea leaving chunks of ice beached on the black sand, mist forming as the sun shone down proved that there was nowhere quite like Iceland. I couldn’t live there: the harshness of the surroundings would become too much. But 1 3 as a place to visit, to drive and think and just look, I can’t recommend it more. One of the first things we did was the Golden Circle which is a road trip that takes you around to see some of the best geysers, lakes and waterfalls Iceland has to offer. The most surreal element of Iceland 1is how much of it looks like American desert. For Reykjavik Pride, a rainbow painted street was commissioned. It was beau- tifully sunny and a lovely long road. I’m glad that it wasn’t removed after 2Pride was over, that it’s there to stay. Dad and I spent a long time driving and whilst we drove we would just wind down the window and snap, hoping for the best. This is one of the better ones we took. Mostly because of the angry sheep. 3The sheep are very angry in Iceland. This is a picture of the glacier lake from Die Another Day. Bond didn’t appear in short shorts (wrong film, I know), but it was by far and away the best thing I saw on this trip. Not to sound 2 4 4cliched but it was genuinely breathtaking and entirely surreal.

Culture Shocks: are popular amongst the Andean nations, I Costing me £10 and charred to perfection, Not surprisingly Alpaca tasted like lean wasn’t let down when it came to variety. my half-rodent meal came with both rice and lamb but I was assured that as they were not Al-paca your bags It was Peru however, that really surprised potatoes and a complimentary glass of chicha really bred for meat, I should instead try my me when it came to food. Not only was food, (a local corn beer) and tasted like a gamey luck with Llama. ackpacking across South America much like everything in Peru, extremely chicken with the odd hair thrown in on top. I did manage to get a taste of Llama on for two months this summer meant cheap but it was always freshly cooked and Not the most appealing of meals for many my penultimate day in Peru, however it was weeks of indulgent eating (and surprisingly good. I’m sure but for the adventurous traveller, a bit of a cheat as it came in the form of a drinking). Upon arrival in Cusco, I decided to hunt Guinea Pig is a must. Llama burger stacked with bacon, nachos I told myself I should try and eat as many out the first of my Peruvian musts… “Cuy” For the next Peruvian classic, I had to wait and cheese. Blocal delicacies as I could stomach. Ranging (Guinea Pig). Largely a touristy option for until I had made it to Arequipa, near the bor- Nonetheless I can safely say it was one of from the vast choices of barbequed meats in most restaurants, it was relatively easy to find der with Chile, where whilst on an expedi- the best burgers I’ve ever had and capped off Brazil and the tender Bife de Chorizos of Ar- a place for me to lose my Guinea Pig virgin- tion to the Colca Canyon I was able to buy of a fantastic time in what was my favourite gentina on the east coast to the more tradi- ity, much to the disgust of my female com- a grilled Alpaca skewer from a street vendor South American country. tional staples of Potatoes, Corn and Rice that panion at the time. for 50p. Matt Downs 28

Editor: Selina-Jane Spencer Science&Tech [email protected] The 2015 Nobel Prize: an unofficial guide Henry Smith explains the importance of this year’s six pieces of Nobel Prize winning research t’s an award almost as revered as the Great mas Lindahl, Paul Modrich and Aziz Sancar Spring, toppling the dictatorial President British Bake Off trophy – but, while the for explaining the mechanics of how DNA Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. But though the Scientists Explain: quality of Nadiya’s Mille-Feuille master- is able to repair itself. DNA’s G, C, A and country looked destined for the same piece was clear to all, the importance of the T groups are constantly at risk of chaotic fate as Libya and Egypt, How DNA repairs itself Iworks that won this year’s Nobel prizes can getting mixed up, but we now the rivalrous Tunisian civil be hard to get to grips with. Here’s a summa- know it has a crack team of organizations for lawyers, ry of what the Nobel Prize winners for each enzymes primed to repair workers, human rights, DNA’s G, C, A and T groups are constantly discipline truly achieved. any damage. and industry put their at risk of getting mixed up, but we now know The Medicine Prize was split between two The prize for liter- differences aside to that DNA has a crack team of enzymes that teams. William C. Campbell and Satoshi ature was awarded form the Tunisian are primed to repair any damage. Omura received half of it, for the discovery to Svetlana Alex- National Dialogue For instance, a C group in a CG base pair of Avermectin, a parasite-busting drug that ievich, a Belaru- Quartet. Theycan decay at any time to lose an amino group Omura found in soil-dwelling microbes. sian journalist who drafted compro- and render itself unreadable. We had no idea This drug has revolutionised treatment of documented the mises between how the body counteracted this, until Lin- such parasitic diseases as river blindness and emotion of the So- the many politi- dahl discovered an enzyme able to remove elephantitis. The other half went to Youyou viet Union’s darkest cal parties vying the specific damaged C nucleotide. Tu, for tracking down isolation of the ac- hours. The events for power and laid If UV radiation causes two T groups to tive component artemisin from a herb once she relates range down a more demo- bind together, another enzyme found by mentioned in an ancient remedy for malaria. from Chernobyl to cratic foundation for Sancar will cut out the defunct strand and let Artemisin now sets a fast acting standard for the Soviet war with future elections, forc- it be replaced. antimalarial treatment. Afghanistan, and em- ing all political parties If the GCAT nucleotides don’t link to Takaaki Kajita and Arthur B. Macdonald ploy real world interviews to negotiate together and each other correctly (so if A accidentally won the Physics prize for discovering Neu- and anecdotes to achieve a bringing the country back matches itself to C, for example, or G to T), trino oscillations, which prove that neutrinos sense of factual accuracy. She from the edge of civil war. a third enzyme, found by Modrich, will cut have mass. Neutrinos are electron-type par- describes her work as “an eternal di- The prizes were announced be- the section open and again allow it to heal. ticles that have been neutralised, lacking the alogue of the executioners and the victims.” tween the 5th and 12th of October. But use These enzymes are pretty handy; without negative charge. Kajita and Macdonald pio- The separate Prize in Economic Scienc- your newfound Nobel knowledge while you them, life would not have evolved at all. neered in collecting observations of neutrino es went to Angus Deaton (not the one from can: you only have until next year before an- oscillations, discovering that neutrinos could TV) for his work developing measures of other set of winners are announced… change “flavour” between neutrino versions poverty, introducing “change in welfare” as of either electrons, muons (big electrons) an indicator. He also highlighted the Deaton » The Nobel Prize photo: Thomas Fisher or taus (really big electrons). This also ex- Paradox, where large, permanent and sudden Rare Book Library / Flickr plained why we were only detecting a third changes in average income tend to result in of the electron neutrinos the sun was produc- fairly slow changes in consumption habits. Do you want to write for ing. The only explanation for this oscillation Last but certainly not least, the Nobel Science&Tech? required neutrinos to have a mass, changing Peace prize went to the National Dialogue Email us on: » DNA double helix photo: Public Domain the standard model of particle physics. quartet for their role in stabilising Tunisia. [email protected] Pictures / Pixabay The Chemistry prize was awarded to To- Tunisia was the first uprising in the Arab Having happy friends is good for your health

» Photo: Sachin Patekar / pdpics Lacey Read discusses the impact of friendship groups on students’ mental health recent study conducted by Professor atrists, one in five people become depressed 6-12 month period. freshers, is to take a few weeks to socialise, Frances Griffiths, at Warwick Uni- at some point in their life. Student life can Currently, depression costs the NHS up- before you let work stress you out. Get to versity Medical School, found that be extremely stressful and the transitions you wards of £8 billion per year. Edward Hill, know the people in your flats, on your course a healthy mood amongst friends leads to a the lead author of this study, suggests that and in societies. It may even protect your lowerA risk of developing depression and an encouraging strong social networks may be mental health. increased chance of recovery from the illness. “Having approximately 10 a low-risk, low-cost way to reduce depres- If you ever need mental health help, there are Using the Markov model, a similar method friends with a ‘healthy mood’ sion. He states that his “results suggest that many services on campus for you. Nightline is used when tracking the spread of infectious double the chance of recovering promotion of any friendship between adoles- a free, confidential service that provides you disease, the study observed more than 2,000 from depression over a 6-12 cents can reduce depression since having de- someone to talk to. You can call them 9pm-9am adolescents in a network of US high school pressed friends does not put them at risk, but on 024 7652 2199. students. Individuals were classified as either month period” having healthy friends is both protective and having depressive symptoms (low mood) or curative”. An author of the paper, Dr Thomas not being depressed (healthy mood) accord- House, implies that this study shows promise ing to the score cut-off associated with a clin- make when coming to university can make for more ‘cheap, low-risk social interventions’ ical diagnosis of depression. By tracking the you more susceptible to developing depres- to treat depression. He thinks that by encour- spread of moods, the researchers were able to sion. As many as 29% of students may expe- aging social networks within individuals, we see how the student’s moods affected each rience some mental health issues during their may reduce the instance of depression. “As a other. The depression did not spread amongst studies. However, this study has found that society, if we enable friendships to develop friends but the good moods did! having as little as 5 friends with a ‘healthy among adolescents (for example providing Depression is currently a major public mood’ can halve the probability of devel- youth clubs) each adolescent is more likely health concern. Globally, 350 million peo- oping depression. Having approximately 10 to have enough friends with healthy mood to ple are currently affected by depression. friends with a ‘healthy mood’ double the have a protective effect.” According to the Royal College of Psychi- chance of recovering from depression over a So the key message to take from this, 8 theboar.org/science-tech | @BoarSciTech | Science&Techtheboar.org 29

No turning back: global temperature to rise 2oC by 2100 cientists have announced that all our attempts to keep the increase in The Nobel Prizes: an analysis global temperatyre below 2oC from pre-industrialS levels by the end of this cen- tury are not enough. fter a long wait – (nominations Chemistry covered artemisinin, an anti-malaria drug. Why 2oC? It appears that nobody truly began in September 2014), laure- She was part of a secret military project try- knows. The politicians claim that it is “what ates of the 2015 Nobel Prizes were Split between three scientists, the Nobel ing to find a cure for malaria and decided to the science demands”, whereas the scientif- announced during the first two Prize for chemistry was awarded to Tomas explore ancient Chinese medicine as part of ic community, as represented by the IPCC, weeks of October. We all know that the No- Lindahl, Paul Modrich and Aziz Sancar (the her research. She combined this with mod- counteract with “climate policy is a value-lad- belA Prizes are important: but what impact do second Turkish-born recipient of a Nobel ern statistical analysis techniques to produce en judgement and therefore falls beyond the they have on the non-scientific world? Prize ever) for their ‘mechanistic studies of artemisinin. The second recipient from Ki- remit of scientific enquiry”. Nonetheless, the DNA repair.’ Lindahl began searching for an tasato University, Japan is Satoshi Omura, a throng of politicians at COP21 will make Physics enzyme to repair faulty DNA material at the soil microbe expert who also took influences promises to avoid “dangerous anthropogen- Karolinska Institute in Stockholm. This was from natural remedies to discover avermec- ic interference with the climate system” as The Nobel Prize for physics is shared be- followed by Modrich’s detailed research into tin. William Campbell took this work further outlined in the UNFCCC Rio Convention tween Arthur McDonald and Takaaki Ka- mismatch repair – using enzymes to repair at Drew University, New Jersey. Avermectin (1994). They will attempt this with absence jita from Queen’s University, Canada and damaged DNA; a very effective process for was evolved into the more powerful ivermec- of official scientists in the building. And this the University of Tokyo, for ‘the discovery DNA protection. Later, Sancar worked at tin and used to wipe out parasitic infections is why the world will probably fall short of of neutrino oscillation’. As Henry explained, Yale University to identify and remove DNA in humans. These discoveries are estimated agreement once again. neutrinos are tiny sub-atomic particles with material damaged by UV light using en- to have improved 3.4 billion lives, almost half Although the climate is incredibly com- no charge. Most of the neutrinos around zymes. The combined processes can repair a of the world’s population. plicated, temperature is effectively the ma- Earth are from nuclear reactions in the sun huge amount of DNA defects caused by UV All of these laureates are extremely deserv- jor driving mechanism behind most other with hundreds of billions of solar neutrinos rays, toxic substances and copying errors and ing and have made a big difference to their aspects of the climate system. You are most entering our vicinity each second, so they’re are massive developments for many degener- chosen fields. It’s reassuring to know that likely already aware of some of the direct pretty important. The important conclusion ative diseases and forms of cancer. scientists are constantly making progress in consequences of excessive warming, such as of these scientists’ work is the neutrinos must the battles against some of the problems that loss of ecosystems, risk to human life, sea lev- have mass! This is a huge revelation for the Medicine mankind faces. I’m sure next year’s awards el rise (due to both the melting of glaciers as world of subatomic particles – despite their will bring another batch of equally inspiring well as thermal expansion) and depressingly small mass there are so many neutrinos in the The Nobel Prize for medicine was also split and worthy recipients. many more. Therefore it appears that indeed, universe that their combined weight is esti- between three scientists who discovered two Sarah Elliott monitoring the global temperature rise is a mated to be around the same as that of all of different drugs. We’ll start with Youyou Tu, feasible way of judging just how badly we are the visible stars. the first female Chinese laureate, who dis- Photo: Hackspett / Creative Commons doing. But to what extent? The problem I see is this: natural cli- mate variability may account for up to 0.5oC Adblocker: harmless timesaver or content killer? change in either direction over a few decades. That’s 25% of the proposed maximum target. o you’re browsing the web, going buy their product/service. Yet that’s where Google ad network doesn’t have the impact it Even if humankind reduce emissions to 0% about your usual business and out of the issue lies. If people install ad blockers, once had. This directly affects their bottom of the dirt that we currently spew out and nowhere you see a pop up. Maybe you they don’t view these ads and in turn do not line. It’s a rather sneaky tactic to impact An- contribute to the already saturated 400ppm wantS to watch a video on YouTube but are buy said product. It means that websites are droid. CO2 atmosphere; even if that unlikely sce- forced to sit through that movie trailer you’ve unable to command higher prices for the ad It’s no surprise then that some content nario happens, global temperatures may still seen a dozen times. It’s no surprise then, that space which leads to a loss of revenue. providers have begun to find alternative ways rise up to 0.7oC. Add a potential 0.5 of nat- ad blockers have seen an increase in their Currently, the install base of top three ad to fund their content. The Guardian asks us- ural variability on top and the next century install base. Ad blockers are small browser blockers on Google Chrome is around 100 ers using ad blockers to become supporters. could witness a rise of 1.2oC, enough to cause extensions that can be downloaded freely by million. That’s 3.4% of the total number of in- Some have started to sell sponsored posts as severe damage to ecosystems and further af- anyone. They execute code that prevents ads ternet users. Now that may not seem like much, a way of promoting products by writing re- fect the delicacy of our atmosphere. loading from a known database. For the end but content providers have begun to notice. views or featuring it in a video or podcast. Sadly, this is something like a best-case user, it simply means no ads. It’s a simple fix Channel 4 prevents viewers from watching These are indirect ways of achieving the scenario. The trouble is that science cannot to an annoying problem. content on All4 if they have ad blockers in- same thing – selling space to allow content fully predict the sensitivity of our climate; One of the latest tech concerns is priva- stalled. to be distributed freely. Another new way to the change caused by change leads to cha- cy. It’s come to light that ad networks collect allow to free distribution of content is to use otic and unpredictable behaviour, thus we data on their user to inform which ads are Patreon. Patreon is a website that allows art- may well see an increase in natural disasters shown to them. Yet, no major networks allow ists and creators to earn recurring payments we can’t stop. That’s if we stop polluting this easy access, if any, to control what data is be- from their fans. Patreon is a subscription very minute. It only gets worse if we carry on ing mined, who’s viewing it and how it’s be- service for which, like Kick Starter, higher as normal. ing shared. Ad blockers take care of this too, pledge amounts result to higher benefits. It’s Though one could argue that there is little as the ads just aren’t allowed to load. It’s actu- a clever way of engaging with the audience. each one of us can do in light of all these fail- ally an effective way to prevent data snooping Perhaps this then is a sign; a signal to the ures of the big guys in governments, there is and hands back control to the user. ad industry to do better. To do away with in fact quite a lot that collective action can do. So why do ads exist in the first place? The the annoying popups and flash videos. To If we do not want to keep spinning this per- internet is full of content. Providing that remove the ugly links and skyscraper ban- petual rat wheel fuelled by politicians’ empty content costs a lot of money. Especially if ners. To re-evaluate the data mining they do promises, we must get the scientists involved you have lots of traffic. In order to recoup the and give users control of what personal data in discussions. If we do not, the world stands costs, companies can do one of two things: is being collected. There’s no better time to no chance against climate change. 1) Sell a product or service alongside propose reform then when you’re about to their content for profit. get knocked out. Instead focus on more cu- Kaja Milczewska 2) Sell advertising space. This tussle of users and content pro- rated content that is relevant and tailored to The second has a lot more appeal as it viders suggests a serious problem. Up until the site you’re on. Make the whole experience means that the end user doesn’t have to spend recently, this issue was only on the desktop. seamless. Who knows, people might even en- money to access the site. Also, there is no However, with the release of iOS 9, people gage more if the content is relevant to them. guarantee that people will buy a company’s can download content blockers from the app product. Selling ad space is more convenient store for mobile Safari. Some analysts have Hamza Oza for website owner. It also means that the con- suggested that this may be a sophisticated tent (largely) remains free. Companies buy- attack against Google, as Google currently ing ad space, are betting that the large user owns the largest ad network. By encourag- Photo: Sven Hartz / Wikimedia Commons » base will see the ad, click on it, and in turn ing users to disable ads on their devices, the Photo: NASA/Flickr 30

Editors: Jess Mason and Stephen Paul Music [email protected]

Getting to grips with Gengahr Stephen Paul interviews one of this year’s biggest British breakthroughs

» Horror-show psychpop from the rose-petalled boys / Photo: Hollie Fernando

heir concoction of the catchiest of science-occupied squirrels. Swaying to the as they have done already: “taking everything Albums catchy dream-pop sees them croon- music was probably involuntarily on most in their stride” and “there’s no missing out ing loveless lines like “Darling, it Deafheaven people’s part. I digress. The dank, dim gloom steps”. No ‘I want to be playing stadiums’  started out meaning nothing” on of Hounds would then play the perfectly im- aspirations yet from this band, despite the New Bermuda ‘Dizzy Ghosts’, but always immersing them- perfect host to Gengahr’s ‘Bathed In Light’ plausibility of that prospect – whether they selvesT in wicked horror-show cinematics: et al. want to let themselves believe that or not. While Deafheaven’s “Two teeth to stick you with and I still don’t As our interview comes to a close, I ask signature instrumental know your name” the vampiric love story ‘Fill Felix if he reckons they’ll have had a number interludes still remain My Gums With Blood’ goes. The success of similar bands one album in ten years’ time. He laughs and scattered throughout the This is Gengahr – an odd-pop four-piece makes it surprising, then, that says probably not. But with the 90s coming album, many of the riffs originally from London town, and they’re fast with one of the debuts of the year back into fashion, their well-crafted loud/soft are far more gritty and becoming Britain’s biggest breakout band of they’ve not quite exploded just dynamics seem perfectly suited to fill these punishing than their last 2015. The year started well enough, opening yet smaller venues this autumn, and (well, why effort, with the church- for alt-J on their European tour, then onto not?) even larger spaces for years to come. bell laced introduction of the opening track Australia where the band have seen the most soon giving way to grandiose instrumenta- success; they gained a record deal there be- tion. While it could be argued that a lack of fore anywhere else. “That was a big one for Live, the mix of lush melodies, Bushe’s more experimental interludes deepens the us” Felix Bushe, lead-singer and guitarist for captivating falsetto and lead-guitarist John immersive nature of their music, New Ber- the band, tells me as I caught up with him Victor’s mind-boggling skills with a six- muda is in fact a much more difficult record shortly before their first (first!?) headline UK string axe, produce a wonderful sound. to lose yourself in than their earlier albums. tour. ‘Trampoline’’s outro and the thrashes fea- Will Copping tured on ‘Heroine’ and ‘She’s A Witch’ are Deerhunter particular highlights.  The dank, dim gloom of Hounds I wondered if taking the (often difficult) Fading Frontier would then play the perfectly decision to pursue a career in the (almost al- imperfect host to Gengahr’s ways unforgiving) music industry had been Make no mistake, this is ‘Bathed in Light’ et al. made easily enough: “I always wanted to do Deerhunter’s poppiest al- this, but as I got older that confidence has bum to date, yet still fun- wavered. I found myself back at uni a few damentally ‘Deerhunter’: times, trying to do other jobs: I always want- dreamy, textured, and an The Hare and Hounds, an old-school ed to do music, with differing levels of inten- amalgamation of a mul- sort of grimy Brum pub/venue with dec- sity I guess”. There’s no doubt that now, all titude of styles. Fading ades-old decor (and a thriving live music the hard work has been worth it. Frontier is a welcome new entry into their al- scene – Du Blonde played another room on Certainly the success of similar bands such ready stellar catalogue of music. Cox and co. the same night; East India Youth, Speedy as Glass Animals and alt-J, then further deftly tread the fine line between accessibility Ortiz and The Wytches were to play in back Radiohead, makes it surprising, then, and experimentation. In doing so, they will the coming weeks), was several worlds apart that with one of the debuts of the year they’ve hopefully gain a whole host of new fans en- from where I’d last managed to catch these not quite exploded just yet. Felix nevertheless ticed by the melodic delights of the album’s pysch-popsters. Glastonbury’s John Peel doesn’t take the bait, and points to the sort first half (and ‘Snakeskin’). But, crucially, they tent on a Sunday morning is an unforgiving of level-headedness and grip on reality which » Mind-boggling axe skills Photo: have retained the idiosyncrasies that gained place; hangovers cling to skulls, like neuro- has probably allowed the band to go as far Flickr / Paul Hudson them fans in the first place. Jack Short 8 theboar.org/Music | @Boar Music | MUSICtheboar.org 31 Albums Bestival: sonic excellence and stories Frank Turner As eclectic, anecdote-generating and rave-fuelled as ever... Positive Songs for Negative People    While most of Turner’s albums have a pretty central theme, Positive Songs for Negative People seems to stumble from idea to idea at times. While, at its core, it’s an album about getting better after the events of 2013’s Tape Deck Heart, it is an album that occasionally trips itself up in its own rampant sense of excite- ment. Nevertheless, Positive Songs feels like a stop on the way to something bigger and still has plenty to enjoy. It doesn’t show him at his best, but remains classic Frank Turner — showing off his ability to have you jump- ing around the room one minute and quietly sobbing the next. Alistair Jones

Carly Rae Jepsen E.MO.TION 

Thematically, the usual suspects love and rela- tionships dominate, but musically we’re taken back to the 80s and 90s, with Jepsen channelling Cindy Lauper and work- ing with a wide range of producers – even co-writing with Sia(!). Admittedly, this sum- » Camping at Bestival - not to be confused with Camp Bestival photo: Flickr / Stephanie Overton mer’s fun first single ‘I Really Like You’ was an easy, radio-friendly choice that hoped to f your body is broken by the odyssey of does Flying Lotus supporting Duran Duran sexual confidence in her dancing and move- pick up where ‘Call Me Maybe’ left off – a travelling across bodies of land and wa- make perfect sense. ment elevating the collision between her “Call Me Back”, if you will. The 80s produc- ter by unconventional modes of trans- vulnerable falsetto and cavernous future trap tion did at least hint, however, at what was to port; if you’ve burnt through half the pack beats to a thrilling, primal euphoria unlike come; the album dives off in many different Iof Lamberts you were hoping would last you Bestival holds the most profound anything I’d ever experienced live before. By directions, even slipping in a few of Carly’s the weekend before you’ve even pitched your purchase on the wet wipescented complete contrast, the most physical Jamie experimental, less sugary moments. tent; and if a guy in a pineapple print bucket xx’s set got was a gentlemanly goodbye wave Stefano Guarnieri hat is asking every member of your group if to the audience at the end. Whereas Twigs there’s a N0S balloon going, then you know spiked and invigorated the senses, Jamie Bring Me The Horizon – already, by 1pm on the Thursday – exactly Where Boomtown – with its divisions by lulled and bathed them; as his sweeping set That’s The Spirit  where you’ve arrived. subculture and distinctions of genre – en- washed colourfully over them, his listeners This is Bestival, the season-closing party courages an atmosphere of playful tribalism appeared as intent on letting their minds A significant departure on the Isle of Wight curated by venerated – Bestival strives instead to transcend such drift from the moment as Twigs’s were on from anything Bring Radio 1 tastemaker Rob Da Bank and his notions of difference, making it the perfect keeping their eyes glued to the stage. Me The Horizon have wife Josie. Once a year, swarms of twen- hunting ground for spotters of future trends previously attempted, ty-somethings pack themselves onto ferries, and guilty pleasures alike. One of my mates In truth, the experience feels That’s The Spirit em- hovercrafts and catamarans, making some- shared a fag with (yes, the real) Paul Chuckle something closer to a lucid dream braces melodic hooks thing of a spiritual pilgrimage to a tempo- at the Chemical Brothers, and had an even and electronic-pop that rarily transformed Robin Hill country park. better time screaming out all the words to than it does to merely a ‘music pushes the band into uncharted territory. Seeking to test their personal capacities for every song performed by a Frank Sinatra festival The end result is one of the best rock albums self exploration and self destruction, they dig tribute band, who were playing in an imita- in recent years — bursting with passion, out their most violently colourful and un- tion fifties ballroom. This is the sort of eclec- anger, hope, and seriously catchy melodies. apologetically practical garms, raid the near- tic series of experiences Bestival prides itself And even with such a spectrum of sonic The leap from their last effort, Sempiternal, est Tesco for ‘everyday value’ crisps and cereal on delivering. excellence to offer, Bestival’s reach extends to That’s The Spirit showcases their ability to bars, and strap themselves in mentally for As diverse as it undoubtedly is though, far beyond the musical. It’s in the nonchalant better themselves and their music further. In the most revealing, least hygienic weekend the festival retains a few clearly defined wanderings through the mystical greenery fact, the only reason That’s The Spirit can’t be of their lives. Twice now I’ve been counted strengths, and it plays to them. This year, of the Ambient Forest, the between-act sit- given a perfect rating is because this can’t be among said swarms, and on neither occasion grime and bassline were the electronic genres downs beneath the exotic neon glow of the the peak of Bring Me The Horizon’s power. have I returned to mainland territory disap- to dominate, the potential highlight being Bollywood tent, and the 6am missions to the Tom Hemingway pointed. Mike Skinner’s Tonga party with Big Narst- toilets past the World’s Largest Disco Ball, ie, Murkage and DJ Q, which saw the ideally that Bestival holds its most profound pur- Years & Years claustrophobic Jaegerhaus stage transform chase on the wet wipe-scented soul. In truth, Communion  Only at Bestival does Flying Lotus into a relentless mosh of sweaty bodies as the experience feels something closer to a supporting Duran Duran make The Streets mastermind – evidently bat- lucid dream than it does to merely a ‘music Synthpop three-piece perfect sense tered – slurred emotionally charged words festival’. Years & Years have been of worship to the DJs and MCs he shared You might not know as many of the acts on everyone’s minds af- the tiny stage with: “Oh my days… Have listed on next year’s Bestival flyer as you do ter winning this year’s you ever seen so much shellin’?” Pirate radio those on the flyers of Reading and T in the BBC Sound of 2015 poll. Many overheard comments referenced the icon Slimzee’s back-to-back set with bassline Park, but if you’ve got a cynical VICE-read- Channelling indie artists line-up this year, which demanded deeper poster girl Flava D caused similar scenes at ing friend trying to talk you into following such as Fenech Soler and versing in the creed of circuit raving than The Port (Bestival’s main outdoor rave stage, them there next summer, and you decide to Friendly Fires, it’s refreshing to see a band the typical major line-up tends to. The post- built into a massive disused military ship), take the leap of faith, chances are you’ll be successfully cross over to the mainstream er space occupied last year by ubiquitous reaching a peak when rising grime star Nov- signing up for the early bird payment plan whilst still preserving their (electronic and names such as Chic, Disclosure and Major elist hopped on the mic to provide what he come September 2016, and buying tickets to nu-disco) roots. Affection is a prominent Lazer, this year found itself filled with acts accurately called “energy and flavour.” every rave you never previously knew existed theme on the record, with lead-singer Al- of either cult popularity or relative obscurity. Complementary to the paranoid hype of in your local city immediately after. exander openly discussing his dysfunctional This slight stacking towards the alternative all that 140bpm pandemonium were the soft- Fancy reading the full- relationships, and uncovering the essenc- lent itself to one of the best festival crowds er-edged pleasures of artists like FKA Twigs length, uncensored, uncut es of vulnerability and sexuality through- I have ever experienced, characterised by a and Jamie xx, both of whom worked Big Top album reviews? out. Meanwhile the R’n’B tinged ‘Worship’, concurrent appreciation of niche artistry and tent crowds into states of trance, though by chilled Reggae influenced ‘Take Shelter’ and unpretentious displays of warmth towards entirely different methods. Twigs’s was an Music online: the glistening pop perfection of ‘Shine’ see acts of mainstream appeal. Only at Bestival entirely physical performance, the balletic theboar.org/music the band exploring a range of genres. Jay Chauhan GRADUATE OPEN EVENING 4 NOVEMBER 2015

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Across 19 Relating to trees 5 Test - questions - or ale bar (4) 1 University town (anagram) (8) 1 2 on the River 6 Screen (for a 8 9 Avon (7) 22 Talk (about a shower, say) (7) subject) (7) 5 Do well (in a 7 Faithful (5) 3 5 9 course, say) (5) 23 Publication (of 12 Period of The Boar, say) 8 Illumination (5) instruction (8) 10 11 (5) 2 8 9 A treaty 14 Administrative 24 Hiccup - burp (5) 12 (anagram) - group for a town board for moving 25 Put off (starting (7) 5 6 13 14 15 16 mugs? (3,4) something) (7) 16 Old axe-like 10 Reverse (a weapon - held 17 4 6 7 decision) (8) Down bra (anagram) (7)

18 19 20 11 Fresher's home? 1 Greetings! (7) 17 Pal - mate (6) (4) 8 2 4 3 2 Scoundrel (5) 18 Star (colloquial) 21 13 Go beyond (a 3 Worldwide (5) limit) (6) 22 23 computer 20 Written 1 7 9 15 Relieve (thirst) network - I rent composition - (6) ten (anagram) (8) thesis, say (5) 4 3 6 18 Society (4) 4 Container for 21 Shove (forward) 24 25 boiling water in (4) (6) 8 2 5

Across 19 Relating to trees 5 Test - questions - or ale bar (4) 1 University town (anagram) (8) on the River 6 Screen (for a Avon (7) 22 Talk (about a shower, say) (7) subject) (7) 5 Do well (in a 7 Faithful (5) course, say) (5) 23 Publication (of 12 Period of The Boar, say) 8 Illumination (5) instruction (8) (5) 9 A treaty 14 Administrative 24 Hiccup - burp (5) (anagram) - group for a town board for moving 25 Put off (starting (7) mugs? (3,4) something) (7) 16 Old axe-like 10 Reverse (a weapon - held decision) (8) Down bra (anagram) (7) 11 Fresher's home? 1 Greetings! (7) 17 Pal - mate (6) (4) 2 Scoundrel (5) 18 Star (colloquial) 13 Go beyond (a 3 Worldwide (5) limit) (6) computer 20 Written 15 Relieve (thirst) network - I rent composition - (6) ten (anagram) (8) thesis, say (5) 18 Society (4) 4 Container for 21 Shove (forward) boiling water in (4) (6) 33

Editor: Shruti Dayal Photography [email protected] Ruins of St. Paul’s photo: Joyce Lau City & Architecture

Kenilworth Castle photo: Manizha Khayriddinova

Uspenski Cathedral, Helsinki photo: Joyce Lau Photo: Kambole Campbell Photo: Javier Díaz Barrera/Flickr Fun with Photoshop: Black and white photography

veryone enjoys taking black After opening your photographs TIP: To make subtle changes Finally, you can adjust the shadows and white photographs in Photoshop, go to image-adjust- to your photograph, remember and highlights in your photograph - they symbolize memo- ment-black and white. This command to decrease the hardness of the by going to image-adjustments-lay- ries and help us to be true helps you to fine tune your image and dodge and burn tool brushes to ers. Just slide the bars till you like separately refine the colours in your image. zero! the way your photograph looks and you are professionals online (#photographer done! #blackandwhite). But it isn’t always 1 4 E To make your photograph look possible to take black and white more “professional”, you can go to Further to this, you can use the Interested in photography? Join our team! By images, so how can photoshop be image-adjustments-shadows and dodge tool(for brightening areas) or being a part of our team you can explore dif- used to make professional-looking highlights. This helps you to decide the burn tool(for darkening areas), ferent types of photography, cover events and the amount of shadows (dark areas) and which can be found on the toolbar improve your skills! Join our Facebook group images? No idea? Don’t fret, because highlights (bright areas), you wish to keep in on the left. If you’ve made an error, use the “The Boar Photographers 2015/16” to know Photography is here to help! 2 your photograph. 3sponge tool to erase. about the latest opportunities. 34

Editor: Kambole Campbell Film [email protected]

American psychos: our obsession Denis Villeneuve’s nail biting new with murderers onscreen thriller - Sicario Review

he Guest (dir. Adam Wingard) takes been drilled into the last few generations of t is hard to make a serious blockbuster not a mentor but rather a force which tears the ‘returning American soldier’ mo- children (a good thing?), it also lends a lack movie. The genre of drama and thrillers apart her preconceptions of what is right and tif and somewhat predictably gives it of weight to what is essentially rampart mur- is a tired one, well developed over the last wrong. The narrative may feel stretched a bit a ‘sinister twist’. However, its infusion of a der (a bad thing, probably). The desensitised few decades, and genre’s that also sometimes thin the more you think about the numer- varietyT of familiar genre beats flesh out the violence in modern popular culture is no rev- Ibecome ready-made parody material. How- ous shootouts and scenes of tension-building narrative in a thoroughly self-reflective and elation at all but is still an unsettling pros- ever, with the emergence of titles such as City drama. Furthermore, Roger Deakins’ pano- unpredictable way. Downton Abbey’s Dan pect. We have many non-psycho heroes that of God (2002), and Public Enemies (2009), ramic cinematography brings the viewer into Stevens conveys the perfect mixture of lurk- kill without consequence in the gloriously hope has been breathed into the hearts of an atmospheric, suffocating world of close- ing emptiness, simmering violence, and per- escapist films of the post Star Wars world. film-fans. Sicario is one of such films, even ups and vivid colours. vasive southern charm in his role as David. Take a look at that moment when the plucky though at first, the topic may seem clichéd: Overall, I very much recommend Sicario as He arrives at the Peterson household claim- Indiana Jones guns down three Nazis with a Gangs versus the police force and good guys ing to have been their deceased son’s best single bullet. versus evil organized crime. But don’t let friend. It’s natural to love escapism. This type of yourself be deluded into thinking that you’ve Their characters face a con- Blockbuster fulfils our desire for power over seen this story before. Rather than using a sex and death, without making us deal with linear narrative, Sicario follows emotions flict which tears at the heart of “This type of Blockbuster the consequences of any real action. But and moods, taking many unexpected turns. every person at some point in fulfils our desire for power over should we be made to feel these consequenc- It’s a film where you should concentrate their life: do ends justify the sex and death, without making es inside of the film? Don’t get me wrong, on yourself more than the thoughts or ac- means? Is morality relative? us deal with the consequences Indiana Jones is my favourite thing. Ever. tions of the characters, constantly provoking One has to hand it to The Guest for tack- the question: how else could this film be of any real action.” ling the contradiction between our support made, if not the way directed by Denis Vil- for the protagonist and our indoctrinated leneuve? The performances of Emily Blunt, a well-made piece of contemporary, political views on the consequences of death. Not to Benicio del Toro and Josh Brolin are mar- cinema and a breath of fresh air to the thrill- This character can be seen throughout say every death is felt 100% in the film; in vellous, complementing each other perfectly. er genre. The film offers a small beacon of action cinema, a professional gone rogue - fact, death often takes the form of humour as Del Toro dominates every scene he’s in, but hope in its interesting portrayal of a woman killing bad guys to survive. Except here they an extension of the awkwardness of the film’s it’s the chemistry between his and Blunt’s and her navigation through the underbelly aren’t the faceless military drones seen in reality. The difference here is that the pro- character that fuels the film. of the American government and its morals. more conventional films. James Bond kills a tagonist fulfils the role of both the monster Their characters face a conflict which tears bunch of people in the name of her Majesty/ of the b-movie horror pastiche on display, as at the heart of every person at some point Joanna Jabukowska the name of James Bond when he does his well as the action ‘hero’. This confusion sur- in their life: do ends justify the means? Is whole rogue thing; Rambo too can probably rounding the viewer’s line of identification morality relative? What is left of our beliefs be seen as the villain of his own films; and the and support for the character is an inversion in an unlawful land? It’s the sexual tension, recently concluded (we hope) Taken trilogy’s of a traditional film narrative. As a result, the unspoken words, and the bending of the Become a writer by Bryan Mills mows down every vaguely East- The Guest is engaging as both a fantastical- rules that give life to their portrayals. Sicario joining the group ‘The Boar Film Writers’ and ern European guy that side of the channel in ly entertaining film teeming with nostalgia, features an old film trope of an older, more the name of his daughter. and a film which allows us to engage with experienced character initiating a younger being a member of the At the heart of this lack of moral depth Hollywood cinema in an interesting way. Go one into their future role, Alejandro initiates society is an inherent contradiction. Whilst it allows watch it! Kate into a world she never realised existed for the good guys-bad guys scenario that has Daedyn Appleton and which she is not ready to face alone. He’s Space Oddity - Ridley Scott returns to form with The Martian

here is a fairly long standing theory most challenging frontier. mind the character of Ripley from the Alien William’s music underscores Scott’s visuals that Ridley Scott only makes a great Adapted from Andy Weir’s novel by Drew franchise. to elevate the picture to something greater film once every decade. Varying tastes Goddard (Daredevil, The Cabin In The Woods), Smart, funny, and apparently as hard as than a survival film set in space. Scott prides withstanding, there are many people, myself The Martian is a surprisingly hopeful tes- nails - faltering once or twice when struck himself on building sets from scratch and included,T who would be inclined to agree. tament to human ingenuity in the face of by disaster, the film expertly uses his physical filming on location, enhancing the realism of His latest efforts, Prometheus and that oth- extreme adversi- isolation to bring the film and raising the stakes by doing so– er film about Moses that will not be spoken ty. Matt Damon weight to his sit- this is a world that is dangerous, and we are of here, were visually compelling yet under- shines among a uation, rather than often reminded that Mars isn’t really meant written and lazy. It was clear that Scott didn’t pretty stacked sup- simply writing the to accommodate life – Watney for the most have material that matched his skill behind porting cast, not character as lonely part somewhat exempt from the notion that a camera, something which has thankfully just because of the or depressed. Like he can survive the intense spectacle that sci-fi turned around for The Martian. compelling nar- many survival often brings. In fact, The Martian almost plays like a rative and exotic films The Martian The Martian is potentially the most ‘feel- counterpoint to Prometheus; on the surface location, but be- is a positive rep- good’ film that Scott has ever done, but the the films both take place on a desolate, un- cause of the sheer resentation of the optimism, lightness and happiness of the inhabited planet – but where The Martian charm he brings to human will to live, film doesn’t feel grating or unearned, it just notably differs, is in its celebration of scien- the personality of but is also unique makes it all the more powerful. tific process and method, and an unwaverng astronaut/botanist in the surprising- Kambole Campbell dedication to smart people, as opposed to ‘bi- Mark Watney. ly upbeat sense of ologists’ who poke alien snakes and can’t read The memorable humour running Send us your thoughts maps. NASA’s strong involvement speaks characterisation of throughout the on all the latest releases! volumes to this films celebration of science Watney is one that has been missing from film. Unsurprisingly, The Martian is also a and exploration, space being the final and recent Ridley Scott pictures, bringing to gorgeous piece of cinema. Harry Gregson Tweet: @BoarFilm 35

Editor: Carmella Lowkis TV [email protected] Recap: The Great British Bake Off Season 6 Carmella Lowkis looks back on the most popular season of the hit BBC baking show to date t’s official: Britain loves baking. If there Nadiya won over the judges (Paul Hol- that has made her so popular with the public: other long year for was ever any doubt of that fact, the view- lywood and Mary Berry) with her “big fat it’s been a joy to watch her grow as a baker. Bake Off’s return, ing figures for The Great British Bake Off British wedding cake”, but with the incred- “I’m never going to say ‘maybe,’” a tearful but hopefully the Season 6 final have put an end to it. ible sugar work on Tamal’s bake, and the Nadiya told the camera after learning of her delicious memo- According to the BBC, Nadiya’s win on perfect flavour in Ian’s, it must have been an victory, “I’m never going to say ‘I don’t think ries of this sea- IBBC One was watched by an average of impossible decision to make. I can.’ I can and I will.” son will give us 13.4 million viewers, with a peak of 14.5 mil- There were tears all round after the an- enough food lion. This makes it the most-watched show nouncement, with even the stolid Mary Ber- for thought of 2015 so far; compare that to the measly By the show’s sixth season, it’s not ry getting misty eyed. until then. 2.5 million who watched the final of the first only established itself in the hearts By the show’s sixth season, season in 2010, and it’s clear that Bake Off’s of the nation, but has managed to it’s not only established itself success has risen more quickly than dough in find its optimal format in the hearts of the nation, but a proving drawer. has managed to find its optimal The final was also streamed on the Big format. Screen in the Piazza for Warwick students to This year saw a drastic reduc- watch, and Curiositea ran Bake Off specials While there were no dramatic disasters tion to the informational all day. this year – in comparison to the custard theft segments which took up Eleanor Dawson, an English Literature fi- of 2013, and ‘bingate’ in 2014 – it was still an a large amount of screen nalist, has only recently been won over by the emotionally charged ten weeks. time previously, choosing to focus show. She said: “Before this summer I was a The technical challenges were far more vi- instead on the contestants and their Bake Off sceptic. But now I’ve seen the light. cious this time around. Gone are the halcyon baking. And it smells like shortcrust pastry.” days of a brandy snap technical; this year saw Whilst I’m a ‘trifle’ sad to see So what is it about Season 6 that has obscure challenges such as a Victorian tennis these go, it’s true that the show caused so many new viewers to tune in? cake, mokatines, and flaounes. At the start of has felt more cohesive thanks to For starters, this season seemed to have the season, Nadiya struggled with these, con- their absence; it’s now much hard- the closest final to date, with Nadiya, Ian, sistently placing towards the bottom. How- er to find a break for a quick cuppa! and Tamal all performing exceptionally, es- ever, we’ve since seen her become a four-time Now that the summer is over and the tent » Nadiya with her coveted trophy photo: BBC/ pecially in the ‘showstopper’ round. technical winner. I think it’s this progression has been collapsed, we’ll have to wait an- Love Productions/Mark Bourdillon

The Boar Are the BBC right to cover e-Sports? TV Guide Halimah Manan on BBC coverage of League of Legends championships tarting on 15 October, BBC Three While it’s easy to dismiss League of Leg- London, at Wembley. This is especially true teamed up with BBC Sport to lives- ends as ‘just a game,’ it is far-reaching; with in the middle of their ‘Make It Digital’ sea- tream the League of Legends world sixteen teams from across the world taking son, dedicated to normalising the digital Boar TV brings you the top five TV shows championships. By covering this part, it is an international event. The tourna- world in all its forms. to watch this fortnight, as voted by section paradoxical new genre of sport, e-Sports, it ment is so serious that its prize pool totals In some ways, presenting the champion- contributors: seemsS the BBC is reaching further to gain a whopping $2.13 million. To put that into ships live on TV will bring multiplayer online the attention of young people – and, in line perspective, the Women’s World Cup 2015 tournaments like League of Legends into the #1 How to Get Away with Murder with ‘Make It Digital’, it may just work. winners received $2 million. mainstream. Who knows: perhaps League of Season 2 UK Premiere: League of Legends, a competitive mul- Even if you haven’t heard of League of Leg- Legends will become a household name. 28 Oct / Universal Channel tiplayer online battle arena, pits teams of ends, well-known American band, Imagine However, whether or not they’re necessar- With so many questions remaining after players against each other in a variety of bat- Dragons, clearly has. Last year, their song, ily meeting demand to stream the champion- Season 1, the new season of this Emmy-win- tlefields and game modes. As a roleplaying ‘Warriors’, was the championship’s theme ships remains to be seen. ning US drama can’t come soon enough. game, it gives players the chance to level up song. their skills to become the best. These features As League of Legends garnered 27 million The tournament is so serious #2 The Apprentice Season 11: have made the game so popular that, accord- viewers for the grand final in 2014, the BBC Wednesdays / BBC1 ing to Digital Spy, over 27 million people play would have been amiss to ignore the cham- that its prize pool totals a The new season started last week, and things every day. pionship when it took place in the heart of whopping $2.13 million are already heating up: who’ll be fired next?

#3 Supergirl Season 1 US Premiere: 26 Oct / CBS Last year, League of Legends streamed the The first episode may have been leaked, but games for free to watch across the world, on- now it’s finally ready for official release. If line, and even in cinemas. you held out against temptation this long, In this case, the BBC’s coverage would al- now it’s time for your reward! most seem pointless. The only saving grace for the BBC is that #4 Grimm Season 5 US Premiere: they also conducted interviews and commen- 31 Oct / NBC tated on the event, as with any sport; even the The mixture of police procedural and fantasy least clued-up of viewers should have been has popularised Grimm, but will the show able to understand what was happening. remain interesting now that its novely value Regardless of whether you truly consider has worn off? League of Legends a sport – and no matter how strange the concept of BBC streaming #5 The Last Kingdom Season 1 Premiere the tournament – it is refreshing to see an- 22 Oct / BBC2 other take on tournaments shared on a na- Swords, war, and torrid affairs: that’s all you tional level. If nothing else, it will normalise need in a TV show. gaming beyond Call of Duty and Grand Theft Auto. » Photo: US CPSC / Flickr Whether this succeeds in attracting the attention of young people will only become Do you want a say on apparent when viewing figures emerge. Ei- what goes into the next ther way, the BBC have taken a step forward Boar TV Guide? in sharing a different type of international fb.com/groups/BoarTV event, and extended their reach to the won- » The 2015 League of Legends world championships were held in London photo: Riot Games ders of e-Sports and the online world. 36

Editor: Ali Jones Games [email protected]

This isn’t the battlefront you’re looking for

Joe Clarke tries out the beta for the new Star Wars: Battlefront » Photos: Edited from PlayStation Europe / Flickr

etas are tricky things to write about. mode is essentially a glorified horde mode, me. During one game, I managed to get the and the ability to use a jetpack. Pretty much anything I complain with context provided by everybody’s favour- most kills because I stumbled upon the ene- This isn’t to say that the game isn’t fun. As about can be explained away by saying ite fish-faced soldier, Admiral Ackbar. This my spawn point, which must have been in- the game is made by DICE, the team behind “of course it isn’t perfect, it’s a beta!”. But let’s was fine, but felt a bit boring to begin with, credibly aggravating for the other players. the Battlefield games, the shooting is unsur- Bgive it a try anyway. with the map feeling particularly sparse. Vehicular combat needs some work as prisingly spot-on, feeling fair, fun and easy to First things first, fans of the oldBattle - The first multiplayer mode, Drop Zone, is well. When playing for the first time, the handle. Vehicular combat is pretty good once front games are going to be disappointed; a King of the Hill style game, with two teams game gives you no indication as to how to you get the hang of the controls, with dog- This definitely isn’t the game you used to of 8 trying to capture and defend escape pods control your character. Whilst on foot, this is fights between TIE fighters and X-Wings love. In fact, a lot of what made Battlefront falling from the sky. Whilst simplistic in idea, no big issue, as it’s pretty standard FPS-fare, being a particular highlight. Star Wars fans great to begin with is missing. Space combat? matches often felt incredibly tense and ex- but when vehicles, particularly flying craft, are going to get a lot of fun out of playing Gone. Third-person gameplay? Gone. Mov- citing are involved, it becomes problematic. You’re with their favourite vehicles and characters ing an AT-AT? Gone. Even simple things Finally, and perhaps most excitingly for not told how to fly, how to shoot, or what the in these beautiful and authentic levels, and I like walking up to a vehicle and climbing Star Wars fans, there is Walker Assault, various power-ups for your ship actually do, will admit to squealing with delight when I in have been inexplicably removed, replaced in which two teams of 20 players face off making for a steep learning curve. This is fur- got the chance to pilot an X-Wing or control with a pick-up system that makes it very easy against each other, with the Imperials trying ther hampered by some particularly shoddy Darth Vader for the first time. for power-ups to be dominated by those who to defend an AT-AT, helping it to destroy the collision detection. The game encourages you These impressions seem to give off a nega- know where they spawn. rebels shield generator, whilst the rebels try to fly low in order to take out foot soldiers, tive vibe about the game, but that’s not quite to bring the machines down. Although this yet, due to poor collision detection, I often fair. Yes, there are many aspects that several mode may seem exciting, it was actually the found myself randomly blowing up, with the fixing before release but despite these flaws, Fans of the old games are going least fun to play, thanks to the teams always game accusing me of suicide, when I knew I kept wanting to play more. I had only in- to be disappointed; this isn’t the feeling imbalanced. Most games would end that I hadn’t hit a damn thing. tended to play for a couple of hours before with an Imperial victory, as the imperial side going back to The Witcher, but I ended up game you used to love always seems to have the upper hand. In 8 playing for nearly ten hours over the space hours of gameplay, the rebels only won once. I will admit to squealing with of three days. If the flaws and poor game de- All 3 modes share some pretty important delight when I got the chance to sign are fixed before the December release, I problems that need to be addressed right can see this being an outstanding multiplayer However, the game certainly feels like a away. Level design in particular becomes a control Darth Vader for the first experience. This may not be the Battlefront Star Wars game, with lots of effort having problem fairly quickly. The Suluust map is time game that you were hoping for, but that been put in to create an authentic experience. covered in deep geyser pits that are easy to fall doesn’t stop it from being a whole lot of fun The sound effects are brilliant; blasters and into, but a pain to get out of, which makes the and a damn good Star Wars game. vehicles sound like they do in the films, and map feel poorly designed. The design aspect For the beta, there were no beginner serv- everything has been lovingly designed to look is also tiresome due to the size of the maps. ers, meaning that I was dumped into a game like it belongs in the Star Wars universe. It I understand that DICE were aiming for the with people who had clearly already spent also helps that visually, the game is absolute- scope of a battlefield, but due to the location hours levelling their character, which quickly Want to write for ly breath-taking, with the Hoth snow-scape of spawn points, it often takes far too long to made it feel like a game of haves and have- Boar Games? Email glistening in the sun a particular highlight. get back into the action upon death. nots. I was expected to do well to level up, us at games@the- Gameplay-wise, three separate modes can Spawning seems to have been unfairly set but found this difficult to do, as the enemy all boar.org be played in the beta, two multiplayer and up. I regularly spawned right in front of the seemed to have more powerful weapons (in- one single player/co-op. The single player enemy, or found the enemy spawning behind cluding an infuriating sniper rifle pick-up), Until Next Time... 23 October - Just Dance 2016 and Assassin’s Creed Syndicate Featuring the musical stylings of Katy Perry, Pitbull, and The Little Mermaid’s Sebastian, Just Dance 2016 is the newest iteration or the popular rhythm game. At the oth- er end of the gaming spectrum, the London-based Assassin’s Creed Syndicate is out on PS4, XO and PC. Fortunately, unlike Paris-based Unity, this one seems to work, but we’ll see... 24/25 October and 31 October - League of Legends World Championships Semi-Finals and Final TheLeague of Legends World Championship group stages are over, and while the North American Dream is already over, European hopes are still riding on Origen and potential finalists Fnatic. As predicted, Asian teams are excelling, with all both Taiwanese and all three Korean teams, including likely eventual winners SKT TI still in the competition. Whatever happens, expect a hotly-contested final showdown. Games & Sport 37 » Photo: Jakob Wells / Wikimedia Commons

e...Sports? Against the backdrop of the League of Legends World Championships, Boar Games takes on Boar Sport to decide if Professional Gaming can ever really be a sport

The sheer scale of competitive gaming Gaming lacks the physical discipline to already rivals traditional sport ever be truly classed as a sport Willem Garnier Sam Nugent

or a few years now, a new type of com- that their timing is perfect to the millisec- here is little doubt that competitive in Britain. We live in a time when the na- petitive sporting event has been gaining ond. Top level games usually boil down to a video gaming, otherwise known as tional teams of our two most popular sports a high amount of popularity: eSports. show of strategy, as it is incredibly rare for eSports, has become big business in in football and rugby cannot progress beyond But can video games ever be considered any of the top pros to make a single mistake. the technologically advanced world in which the group stages in a major tournament. Fsports? weT live. Indeed, it is estimated that close to Sports coaching across the disciplines is in First of all, let me make it clear that eS- 72 million people tuned in to watch some need of expensive reform from grassroots ports are now definitely a professional disci- DotA 2 tournament The form of televised eSport competition in 2013, level through to the very top, and there is pline. Maybe not so much a few years ago, International 5 already has more spreading across the globe as a unifying and simply no place for funding in an untested, but the world of eSports and competitive prize money available than the enjoyable experience for those with a passion and ultimately expensive, activity such as gaming has experienced a huge popularity Super Bowl for gaming. gaming. boom recently, leading to top ‘athletes’ being But the use of the suffix ‘Sport’ was al- more than able to make a solid living out of ways going to raise issues, as the financial video games. and social advantages of official classification Sport is either primarily physical, Don’t get me wrong, eSports aren’t quite I guess it comes down to the physical as sport have the potential to take compet- football yet. While the top gamers are indeed aspect. Typically, for something to be con- itive gaming to the next level. However, this motorised, co-ordination- able to make huge amounts of money, they sidered a sport, it needs to be at least some- does not, and should not, come easily and is based or animal-based. Gaming still heavily rely on tournament winnings to what physically demanding. And that’s fair a primary reason why ‘traditionalists’ such as involves none of these do so, and while those not at the very top lev- enough. I could try and argue that gaming myself believe that sport should be protected, el might still get a salary from sponsorships, requires a lot of physical dexterity, that but- and that video games have no place within they’re definitely not set for life. ton presses need to be really precise and really this category. More and more teenagers and young adults fast or that it’s very common for professional What classifies a ‘sport’ is of course a Classifying eSports as a sport has practical are quitting their jobs or their studies to ful- gamers to injure their wrists or their backs thorny issue, but it’s widely accepted that disadvantages as it gives smart-aleck teenag- ly pursue careers in eSports, and they have from extended gaming sessions. These are a sport is either primarily physical (such as ers an excuse for laziness and lack of exercise good reason to do so. Just this August, Dota valid points, but, realistically, we both know athletics), primarily motorised (F1), primar- in a time when physical activity is already 2 tournament The International 5 boasted that gaming is not as physically demand- ily co-ordination based (billiard sports) or in decline. Initiatives that look to combat a prize pool of over 18 million dollars. The ing as “traditional” sports. And it never will primarily animal-based (equestrian sports). childhood obesity such as Michelle Obama’s League of Legends World Championships be. Perhaps that’s why professional gaming This becomes problematic when one be- Let’s Move aim to get children and adults not only pay out over 1 million dollars of sal- is being labelled as eSports rather than just gins to argue that “sports of the mind” (such alike playing sport and exercising for at least ary, but the teams themselves receive money sports, because we all know that they’re miss- as chess and eGaming) are equally valid, or one hour a day. Shockingly, I don’t think that from both the game’s developers and their ing the physical aspect which many people that gaming requires no less co-ordination playing video games was exactly what the own sponsorship deals, from companies in- closely associate with the word “sport”. or more physical fitness as golf or motor- First Lady had in mind. When a concerned cluding SK Telecom, Red Bull, Nissan, and I think competitive gaming can be consid- sport. But a golfer must use their body to mother knocks on their child’s door, with Coca-Cola. The International already has ered a sport, but perhaps that’s up to your in- exert precise amounts of physical energy, and only flashing lights and the sound of virtual more prize money available than the Super terpretation of the word and its implications. it is imperative that a driver remain in peak gun-fire proving that something living actu- Bowl, the Baseball World Series, the World Nevertheless, gaming is now professional, physical fitness so their heart does not ex- ally dwells within the room, and can be dis- Series of Poker, or even the FedEx Cup. demanding, and generally fun to watch, with plode at 200mph. Gaming and chess involve missed with a cry of “Go away! I’m playing If money and professionalism aren’t the more and more outlets beginning to broad- neither of these, and whilst they require vast sport like you wanted me to!”, the situation problem, then what’s making people so ap- cast video game tournaments. Gaming has a amounts of skill to excel at, this is why they becomes farcical very quickly. prehensive towards calling professional video huge audience of passionate fans, and even are not sports. Countdown is not a sport, and Competitive gaming, as an activity that games a sport? Do video games not require if it isn’t your thing then I hope you can still neither is gaming. brings so much joy to so many people, should enough skill to be considered a sport? While accept that some people really do love it just The national funding that is awarded to be given space and encouraged to grow. But, that may be true for casual gaming, you can’t as much as you might like football, rugby, or the governing bodies of activities classified at the expense of having my corpse teabagged just button mash your way to victory against even ultimate frisbee. as sports is thinly spread as it is, and to take by angry Halo fans, to call gaming a sport is professionals. Gaming pros have so much away from other sports to give to gaming going too far at this point. mechanical skill and hand eye coordination would exacerbate this problem, particularly Worlds: A Beginner’s Guide eague of Legends is the biggest vid- The tournament starts with gressing into the knockout stages. This year’s grand final takes place in Berlin eo game on the planet. The game’s a double round-robin group North America have already fallen, on 31 October, and if all goes to plan, both professional scene, which is played in stages, in which teams from but two European teams, Fnatic Fnatic and overall favourites SKT T1, the 5v5 games, and has leagues throughout Eu- Europe, North America, Korea, and Origen, remain against a host Korean 2013 champions, will be looking to Lrope, the Americas, East Asia and Australia, China and Taiwan, as well as of Korean and Taiwanese teams, lift the trophy for the second time, some- runs throughout the year, and success at the international wild-cards from all of whom progressed from their thing no team has ever managed to do before. League Championship Series (LCS), helps Thailand and Brazil, play each groups. Knockout games are best of teams qualify for Worlds – the annual League other twice, with the top two five affairs, and can stretch for sev- » Photo: Riot Games Ali Jones of Legends version of the World Cup. teams from each group pro- eral hours between balanced teams. 38 | theboar.org/Sport | @BoarSport | SPORT 33 theboar.org

Club Spotlight: Dodgeball

The Sport As one of the UK’s emergent sports, dodgeball is flourishing year after year with new teams and players taking up the sport across all corners of the country. The University of Warwick’s Dodgeball Andy Fordham: A sporting miracle Club, the Warwick Warriors, were founded in 2006 and are currently one of the more prominent university teams within the dodgeball community. They boast two women’s and men’s teams that masks a bigger problem

Sam Nugent looks at the remarkable comeback of the The story so far Viking and analyses the sport’s inherent drinking culture The women’s team had their most successful season last year, securing promotion to the Women’s Dodgeball Premier League, before climbing up the table to a 5th place finish. They also won he stereotype that profes- and biggest men in the history any of a dozen genuinely serious a gold medal in the Women’s North England Championship sional darts is a sport for the of the sport. Fordham lived up to health complaints ailing the Viking and a bronze in the UK University Championship. The hugely big-boned is not one with- his Nordic billing in a period of at the time. The doctor examining successful men’s team have achieved 35 medal positions since out grounding. Indeed, although great success in the BDO in the him some time after the match the club’s birth. Their trophy haul includes five UK University walkingT from the oche to the board years bookending the millennium. (Fordham remained in denial and Championships (including last year, making us the current to collect thrown arrows thousands Though the winner of only one simply went to bed with a bran- University Champions). Over the last five years the University of times a week certainly adds up to World Championship in 2004, dy in the immediate aftermath) team have placed first at least once in almost every single cup or a decent score on a pedometer, the this figure belies the ease with told him that “75% of his liver was tournament we’ve been eligible to play in. We also won gold in the match.com profile of the generic which Fordham often plundered dead and that the remaining 25% University Fresher’s Championship in 2014, and have constantly dartist still inevitably contains the the board for checkouts; downing was dying”; advising him to stop seen Varsity victories over Birmingham University. word ‘cuddly’ at least once. opponents with deathly spears of drinking immediately so he could But why is this? Surely the tungsten to reach four semi-finals be placed on the waiting list for a amount of walking and time devot- in just six years between 1996 and full liver transplant. When he was ed to practice in a sport so heavily 2001. finally admitted to hospital, Ford- rooted in skill and precision means But Fordham’s imposing figure ham claims that doctors drained 18 How to get involved that, by course of logic, the most and hulking arms did little to mask litres of fluid from his body and a Dodgeball is a great sport to try your hand at. It’s simple, dedicated of professional darts his naked candle in the room would yet extremely tactical. Tired of tightly controlled rules and players should not be as heavy-set have burned the infirmary to the regulations? No worries, you’ll pick up Dodgeball in flash after a as they are? ground. couple of training sessions, and there is huge scope to see yourself The answer to this is almost Since then Fordham has lost improve vastly in a much shorter period of time than a lot of painfully obvious. Though around 17 stone and has not other sports – over the last two seasons both Warwick Dodgeball darts has come a long way touched a drop of alcohol Fresher teams played in the Fresher’s University Championships from being a game played in over eight years. Find- and every single one of the players have gone onto figure either only in the dark corners ing it difficult to regain the 1st or 2nd teams. of pubs, its links to ex- his form after such a cessive alcohol con- dramatic change in sumption remain very his body an inability apparent. to rely on the drink While it is not the that played such a case for all profession- big part in his suc- al players, the pressure cess, the Viking has and nerves generated recently qualified for around crowd-based the Grand Slam of and televised events Darts 2015, after a long have led many to reach absence from televised for the bottle in order events. to dull their hand into For this sporting remaining steady. If this is achievement The Viking shown to work and the player should receive great cred- builds up a dependency, there is it and applause, but the bigger little escape from the seductive pull miracle is a biological one as Ford- of a tall and frosty pint of lager be- ham should simply not be alive. His fore an important game. per- case is one of extremes but whilst While it would appear from the haps inexorable alcohol is a genuine and readily outside that steps have been tak- health problems. Once 31 stone, available coping tool for the more en to prevent this from becoming Fordham claimed in a 2009 in- nervous darts players, it may only an archaic issue bleeding into the terview with the Telegraph that be a matter of time before the un- modern game, it is perhaps a much he rarely ate; attributing his colos- derlying health problems associat- bigger issue than is realised in the sal size purely to his liver-kicking ed with this area of the sport claim public eye. Though drinking is per- lifestyle as a darts player. Downing a victim who will not be so lucky. haps not actively encouraged, the the best part of a bottle of bran- BDO’s banning of alcohol on stage dy alongside two dozen bottle of in 1989 was a decision made most- beer before big matches, Fordham For more comment ly to appeal to sponsors in a period claimed that he was rarely sober pieces from the world of decline; whilst the decision as to and didn’t ever get bad hangovers of sport, visit: whether a player’s pre-match rou- … because that would have re- theboar.org/sport tine contains ten consecutive Jager- quired him to ever stop drinking. bombs or not remains entirely their His 2007 match with Phil Tay- own. lor was ended prematurely official- » photo: Warwick Dodgeball Andy ‘The Viking’ Fordham is ly due to Fordham suffering from the best example of this in action, overheating but the fact of the as one of the biggest characters, matter is that it could have been » photo: Quinn Dombrowski / Flickr 34 News theboar.org/Sport | @BoarSport | SPORT 39

Three to remember: Moments black athletes “shook up the world”

» photo Venus Williams at US Open 2013 Flickrworker / Wikimedia Commons

Jesse Owens beats Hitler at Tommie Smith and John Venus and Serena the 1936 Olympics Carlos’ Black Power Salute Williams battle it in at the 1968 Olympic Games Primetime efore Usain Bolt, before Carl Lewis, Jesse Owens was the f Owens’ protest against an an- t’s 2001, Primetime CBS Tele- Boriginal super athlete. His four gold ti-black Olympic establishment vision. The women’s singles final medal haul at the Berlin Olympics lay in the elegance of his strides, at the U.S. Open is about to in 1936 is often lauded as one of the Tommie Smith and John Carlos commence, but this time there’s a greatest individual performances in Itook affirmative action one step Idifferent atmosphere, an electrify- the history of the modern games. further, creating arguably the most ing sense of anticipation. No man has had to run so fast iconic image in sporting history. Those in attendance and those with so much riding on their each The visual of the pair standing watching at home knew they were » Photo: Tomer T and every stride. Six months after atop the rostrum, medals slung seeing something special. With the / Wikimedia Commons Berlin won the right to host the round their necks, heads bowed, lights shining their brightest and biggest sporting showcase on earth, with their gloved fists raised to- the world looking on, two African Adolf Hitler rose to power off the wards the sky in parallel black pow- American sisters stepped out into » Photo: Materialscientist / back of a wave of widespread post er salutes will never be forgotten. a stadium aptly named after the Wikimedia Commons World War I German discontent. In the most tumultuous year legendary black tennis champion An integral part of the ideolo- the Civil Rights struggle had ever Arthur Ashe. gy he convinced his countrymen seen, against the backdrop of Mar- Venus and Serena weren’t the would help bring them out of dip- tin Luther King’s assassination first black trailblazers in the sport, lomatic ruin was deeply rooted in and ensuing riots, the duo stood Althea Gibson and Ashe, made prejudice - he believed “the master tall, embodying the stoicism and inroads into a game that was a race” of Aryans were superior to the bravery of all their oppressed Af- squeaky clean bastion of upper class rest of the world in each and every rican American brethren pushing country clubs, but they never well way. The Berlin games were meant for change. As the anthem rung and truly dominated. The Williams to be a showcase of German athlet- around the stadium, Smith’s world sisters straight out of Compton ic dominance. record winning gold medal per- with big strokes and otherworldly That was until the fleet-footed formance and Carlos’ impressive athleticism, reached the pinnacle American entered the Olympic bronze medal clinching run took and took the women’s game to a stadium for the 100 metre final. a back seat. The salute wasn’t just a whole new level. With a glint in his eye, he took to symbol of defiance in the face of a This, the pair’s first ever clash the starting blocks as Hitler looked nation yet to free the descendants in the final of a Grand Slam tour- on, before surging into the lead and of former slaves from the shackles nament was a landmark, a sight bursting through the tape for the of segregation, it was a nod to the to behold in the modern game, victory in a time of 10.3 seconds. the desperate living conditions of proof that the aura of exclusivity In going on to collect three more many of their compatriots. surrounding tennis could be over- gold medals not only did he com- The pair stood on the podium turned. They wouldn’t just overturn pletely destroy the notion of Aryan without shoes in a nod to the pov- to establishment once however, supremacy, he proved to his fellow erty faced by blacks across Ameri- they would do it again and again- Americans at home that the much ca, whilst Carlos’ unzipped Olym- duelling across the globe for some maligned figure of the “negro” pic jacket was a daring break from of tennis’ biggest titles for the next could be a national hero. Olympic protocol, a slap to the 14 years. face of the IOC who refused to ac- Even today, Venus and Serena knowledge their plight were strict- are still filling arenas and capturing ly against political demonstrations the public imagination. » Photo emmett andersont / of any kind at the games. Wikimedia Commons 40

Editor: Shingi Mararike Sport [email protected] Rugby To That: Warwick Rugby raise the curtain in a thriller

» photo: Warwick Sport Lanre Ige reports on Warwick Rugby Union’s thrilling opening season win against Nottingham eading into the first BUCS to the posts. Try. Nottingham’s sub- ham number 11 seemed determined es with Colm Geoghegan coming their obvious set piece advantage. match of the season, there sequent failure to convert did little to trouble the Warwick wing all off for Brian Cabrol at lock; fol- In typical fashion, a good piece of were lofty expectations to brighten the mood. Despite afternoon with his quick feet. A lowed shortly by an injured Cam Warwick scrummaging was fol- placed on the Warwick rugby un- Warwick’s relative domination and characteristic break from him off Lewis being replaced by the ap- lowed by one or two good phases of Hion first team to perform. Many see the large disparity between the a Nottingham turnover lead to his propriately named William Taal. possession before the ball was once Warwick as the favourites for the two team’s set pieces, they were second try which was then con- These substitutions and the War- again lost as they approached the Midlands 1A division title and up unable to get a foothold on the verted. At 3-12 one wondered if wick coach’s stirring half time team opposition try line. Soon after, Will against a newly promoted side, the game. Sloppy play meant that any the Warwick players began to feel talk seemed to spark a fire. After a Harvey, Warwick’s hulking inside consensus surrounding their open- momentum that Warwick tried to disheartened.The first half oscil- bout of possession in the Notting- centre powered through the middle er against Nottingham was that build up soon dissipated due to a ham 22, Chris Orford, Warwick’s of the pitch in the game’s pivotal Warwick would stroll to a convinc- handling error or infringement. openside flanker made a darting moment, in the ruck that followed ing victory. Despite the so-far disappointing Warwick were more in break and placed the ball behind the Nottingham Number 8 was While the performance fell short team play, Warwick’s noticeable need of calm heads the opposition try line, Teeboon pinged for stamping on a Warwick of the eloquent game plan set out individual player advantage kept once again converted. Following player. His ten minutes in the sin- by Warwick Captain Matthew them firmly in the game. Bruising a first half of lacklustre Warwick bin gave the Warwick players the Lawrowitsch of ‘Dominate, Dom- carries by the likes of Will Harvey rugby, the first ten minutes of the much needed drive to power on inate, Dominate’. What became and Antoine Cornet kept Warwick second half showcased everything and eventually win the game. Fol- obvious towards the rear end of the camped in Nottingham’s half. The lated between anticipation and dis- that Warwick fans and players had lowing a strong maul off a lineout, contest was Warwick’s unflinching Warwick pressure was telling as appointment. For all of Warwick’s been excited about in the off sea- deep in the opposition territory; determination and character in the an offside infringement gave War- individual good work and excellent son. Warwick seemed energised the ball was taken out wide by the face of adversity. This wasn’t a clas- wick’s scrumhalf the opportunity set piece play, they were hampered and looked ready to run away with Warwick 9 and after some intricate sic Warwick victory by any means to kick for points on the 15-minute by their systematic inability to hold the contest. However, some silly interplay by the backline – landed but nevertheless, in between loose mark. While impassioned home onto possession for more than a defensive errors from the Warwick eventually in the hands of the Har- hands and a slow start lay all the support has long been a bastion at few phases. backline, followed by a slight of vey, who swiftly placed the ball in hallmarks of potential champions. Fortress Cryfield, Warwick were The number nine, George Tee- hand by the Nott’s’ 12 lead to an- between the Nottingham posts five The early match excitement sur- more in need of calm heads. By the boon, kept Warwick in the game other try. With Nottingham lead- minutes before the final whistle. rounding the first BUCS fixture of 25 minute mark the game still sung with another 3 points off a penalty ing 17-13 in the 60th minute, the George Teeboon followed up with the season was almost immediately the same story. While Warwick kick. For all the disappointment in tide of the game turned once more. the expected conversion to seal the brought to a halt. Soon after kick- continued to dominate, silly mis- the first half, it was hard not to feel The fans seemed fed up; a shout of Warwick win. off, a quick move by the Notting- takes kept Nottingham in the con- that Warwick were still very much “You have the scrum, use it!”, from ham backs lead to a gaping overlap, test and occasionally put the home in the game.The second half saw behind the touchline told the story and in a flash the Notts’ 11 was away team under pressure. The Notting- Warwick make some vital chang- of Warwick’s failure to capitalise on Comment Corner: BUCS sport spectatorship; is anybody watching?

erm opened with a some- Netball who will frequently turn a ten-minute walk from the sports est in women’s sports growing, yet what refreshing publicity up to each other’s games to rally on centre. As for the Cryfield pitches, still globally depressed relative to boost directing us towards their Warwick side. Then, there’s now that the bus interchange has that of male-counterpart games, the opening fixtures of the BUCS Varsity. shifted the centre of gravity of cam- grass roots sport is an easy way to season.T Sports Officer Alex Roberts We fill up half of Coventry’s pus towards the Students’ Union, address the imbalance and show sent out info graphics of scheduled Planet Ice for the finale, and at- watching the bulk of home games forward-thinking support. highlights we could all attend, ob- tracted 100+ spectators to the hosted at Warwick has never been Action points to note going viously in search of a campus-wide opening Basketball spectacle this easier nor more convenient. As for forward, then: update yourself on fan base to get behind our 65 clubs, year. Impressive as those crowds results, imagine if we could impact fixtures lists, picking out a team and in particular, the BUCS clubs. can seem, we are a university of on Warwick’s place in BUCS sim- or two that interests you, and turn While the sparkly adverts have over 25,000, and our support base ply by showing our support? out for some of their matches with been shared, and a ‘game of the for our sport clubs is measly at best. Women’s Football Social Officer peers, if not to cheer on the team, week’ highlight introduced, such With our campus being of the big- Danielle Boughey told me that then at least to take a break from scheduling information has hardly gest in the UK space-wise, it can sideline support indeed boosts mo- the hustle and bustle of the bubble. been scarce in recent years – yet, seem daunting to trek around for rale and thus player performance: when you stand on the sidelines of the pleasure of standing on a cold, “For us, the atmosphere at games is Chloe Wynne such games, there are often more muddy pitch in Week 7 when both so important. The girls agree that Got something to say medics than audience members. essays and influenza are due. they naturally play better when about University Sport ? Clubs themselves appear to have From day one we demonise someone is cheering them on and Tweet us @Boar Sport fair audience alliances – most no- Westwood as a separate body to they’ve got fans to impress.” #CommentCorner tably Men’s Football and Women’s the main campus, but in reality it’s With spectatorship and inter- » photo:Warwick Sport