MYSTERIOUS IS NOT CREATURE FOUND IN THIS ISSUE AT VIC JK NAME: STRANDFORD PAGE 5 TALENT: SCREAMING INTO VOID YEARBOOK QUOTE: “WHEN I DIE. THEN YOU WILL REALIZE.” THE STRAND VOL. 58 ISSUE 12

star wars: rogue one trailer: THE PEOPLE RESPOND

“LOOKS GOOD” PAGE 22

not sure LOOKING FOR ANSWERS PLEASE SOMEONE DM who ME this is THE STRAND PLAYS all photos shot on iphone (tM) NEKO ATSUME YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS HOROSCOPES THIS! pisces: Today will be a good day and because of that you PAGE 18 will be more open to the world around you. leo: Make sure you appreciate others. By doing this, you norm kelly: dead?

will learn to better appreciate yourself. page 4 gemini: You need to take a step back and really look at who you are. People treat you like a goddess and you don’t EVER take notice. You’re too busy going VIC PRESIDENT WILL ROBINS GETS IN out with your friends to spend just ONE night a week with your boy- friend watching TV. Just one night. I don’t care if you don’t want to watch Firefy, I watch your stupid little home decor shows. I miss you Jennifer. FEUD WITH SMARTEST HUMAN

Please call me. ALIVE RICHARD DAWKINS more on page 17 PAGE 20 Definitely Real Actual News • The Strand

OPINIONS NOW FACTS, Confrms Strand Opinions Editor

Olivia Dziwak | Opinions (News) Editor

In a surprise move last Sunday, Te facts. Tere just aren’t enough of them, is was previously thought humanly possible. referred to as “Facts About Affordable Strand’s Opinions Editor, Olivia Dzi- our opinion, which, as you know, is just “We’re very worried,” said a lab-coated in- Art.” Te centrespread Features section wak, confirmed in an interview with Te the facts.” dividual, trapped out in the open during will hereafter be known as “Big ol’ Facts.” Strand’s Opinions Editor, Olivia Dziwak, Many wide-sweeping changes will be a coffee run. “What if my prof decides it’s Stranded will be left untouched, because that opinions are now facts. Tis an- coming into effect as a result of this re- possible to read 20 slides in the last three the sanctity of the humour section must nouncement was made in light of extreme orientation to reality. Students who were minutes of class after all? Will that break be preserved at all costs. pressure from the University of , absolutely for real interviewed for this ar- the time-space continuum? Will that Te News, Editorial, Arts & Culture, in a move commonly referred to as “the ticle said with confidence that they would mean I actually have to know all those Film & Music, and Features section heads end of term.” be able to clear away the vast majority slides for the exam?!” of Te Strand were all unavailable to com- “We’ve looked at the facts,” she was of their previously daunting workload. Changes will also be coming into ef- ment, mostly because we didn’t ask them. quoted as saying, “and our opinion on the “Oh yeah, I feel great about it,” said Astu fect at Te Strand itself, which will be see- At press time, Opinions Editor Ol- facts is that that is what they are.” When Dent. “Now that my opinions are facts, ing a wide-scale internal reorganization. ivia Dziwak had promoted herself into asked to clarify this comment, Dziwak I’m pretty sure I know everything. Actu- Te section formerly known as News will the role of Editor-in-Chief because she explained that the approaching end of ally, I’m thinking I’ve already graduated. be absorbed into the Opinions section, thought she deserved it and, as a result, term has created a facts shortage that ne- Yep, that sounds about right. I’m done.” and the former Editorial page will be does in fact deserve it. cessitates the use of opinions as facts. “We Te impact on the scientific commu- relabeled “Facts Tat We Tink, Which took a long hard look at what we had, nity has yet to be properly gauged, but Terefore Are Facts.” Arts & Culture which was the facts, and realized we were many Life Science students were sighted will boast the new name of “Facts About very soon going to run out of them. Te looking more stressed and anxious than Fancy Art,” while Film & Music will be

STUDENTS?

UofT Faculty shocked to discover students at own university

Emily Pollock | Alleged Student Last week, Presi- “Nuh-uh. Tat’s…no way. I mean, I legedly represents, a representative from proach any students with her questions dent Meric Gertler was informed that knew there were students at other univer- the Provost’s office said, “Wait, ‘students’ about the university’s oversight. Appar- there are multiple students enrolled in sities. But…oh man, I’ve got to…” He are those little glass tubes they do science ently, they “scattered like gazelles” when the university. Te long-time university pulled out his phone. with, right? Like, the mad tiny ones?” Te approached by a person with a clipboard, president came under fire recently for his “Pamela, I heard this terrible ru- Office of Alumni Affairs sent Te Strand a terrified that they might be asked to sign lack of action on fossil fuel divestment. In mour today. Did you…oh my God. Re- strongly-worded email saying that, while something. an exclusive interview with a correspon- ally?” Tere was a long pause in President students were nice in theory, they would President Gertler was last seen wan- dent for Te Strand, he was asked to com- Gertler’s response. “I mean, is that even get in the way of the university’s real pur- dering off toward Queen’s Park, tie askew. ment on student opposition to the move. sanitary?” pose: naming enormous piles of money As of press time, the President’s Office Instead of answering, he squinted at the When Gertler was asked what ex- after donors and then setting them on fire. has neither confirmed nor denied the ex- interviewer and mouthed the word, “Stu- actly he thought the university was here Te call to the Dean’s Office resulted in istence of the 85,000 students ostensibly dents?” for, he looked at the correspondent with the representative trying to pretend that studying at the University of Toronto. As the correspondent attempted to a haunted look in his eyes and muttered he was the answering machine to avoid Te official statement reads, “Listen, we keep the conversation on-track, Gertler something about graduate-level research. answering the questions, a pitiful move may have made some mistakes, but we rubbed his temples. “Wait, what, you After several calls to the university, that embarrassed everyone involved. think what’s really important is that we’re mean we have students? I mean, here? At the correspondent was no closer to find- Te Strand was also unable to get still ’s best research university. Oh UofT?” ing a university representative who would feedback from any of the university’s al- wait, did McGill climb in the rankings When the correspondent affirmed comment on the issue. When asked to leged students. Although our exhausted again? Shit, we’d better check.” that they themselves were, in fact, a stu- comment on the president’s complete correspondent camped out in Sidney dent, President Gertler shook his head. lack of knowledge about the people he al- Smith for days, she was unable to ap-

2 Opinions (and Science, because they’re the same thing, right?) • The Strand This FEMALE Vic student said WHAT about our gender stats????????

Nicole Paroyan | Lookin’ 4 love

While many schools in Canada boast of single women, I propose a radical and yet gender parity on their university campus- logical solution to this growing problem. es, Vic has gone well beyond the 50 per- Victoria College must put a cap on the cent threshold. In its current state, Victo- number of female students admitted to ria College has a student body comprised the university. Tis measure is necessary of 75 percent women and 25 percent in order to provide equal opportunities men. As I sit and ponder my successes to the thousands of young men trying and failures at Victoria College, I cannot to make it in an increasingly competitive help but focus on one glaring issue—our work environment. Additionally, by re- gender statistics. fusing to admit 50 percent men, Victoria As a woman myself, I love my gender. College is prioritizing the romantic needs Many of my friends are women, and I ad- of men over those of women. mire many of them. Nevertheless, while A student at Vic who prefers to re- receiving an education is important, so is main anonymous left me with a story all property of the strand finding some L-O-V-E. too familiar to female Vic students: “As I When I spoke to a group of female got ready to watch that week’s episode of students at various small-town univer- Girls with my boyfriend, I walked in on sities, they bragged about the variety of him with a book—Infinite Jest by David men available to them. One student re- Foster Wallace. At that moment, I knew marked, “My last boyfriend was a Jewish I should leave him. Instead, we stayed to- Studies major AND a member of the var- gether only to break up three years later, sity golf team. We have options; choice.” after he told me I wasn’t enough of a fem- Tat last word stuck with me. Choice. inist for him.” How can the best university in Canada not provide its student body with the very Tose hoping to support my campaign can thing that makes us human? direct all future inquiries to my Twitter Amid complaints from thousands of page, @MRSeducation.

5 Planets Outside Our Solar System You’ll Want to Move To Right After Finishing This Article

Tanuj Kumar | Science-er-in-Chief

Hello! I’m Tanuj Kumar, the fresh, new Kepler 16-b While you’re at it, you’ll finally have a editor of The Strand’s fresh, new Science Astronomers call this place “Tatooine,” way to dismantle the artificial monop- section! This section will aim to elucidate after the sandy, binary-star-orbiting oly that inflates diamond prices. So get all the mysteries of the universe, from Star Wars desert world, because they’re to it. Destroy capitalism. Do it. providing you with the newest, most rev- a bunch of nerds and were probably olutionary insights, to detailed critiques waiting and twiddling their thumbs in Gliese 1214 b on scientific ethics and workplace issues. anticipation to discover the first planet This is probably the place you’d try vis- Please stay tuned for its debut next year that revolved around two stars. These iting after singeing your eyebrows on in 2017! folks probably go to their fancy phys- HD 149026 b. Gliese 1214 b is a giant ics parties and brag about how they’re swimming pool. A water world, if you Gliese 581 c true fans. I bet this place doesn’t have a will, even though the cost to fly here Approximate artistic rendering. If you’ve ever wanted to live life in a grain of sand. It’s likelier to just be icy, would still probably be less than the places, but that’s what happens when death metal album, look no further since it’s at the edge of the habitable production costs of Kevin Reynolds’s you accidentally slap your name on half than Gliese 581 c. With black plants zone. Are you really a true fan if you similarly-named film. On the plus side, of the known stars in the galaxy. Gliese and red skies due to the light of the red mistake Hoth for Tatooine? we have an entire planet’s worth of wa- 436 b, perhaps the strangest and most dwarf Gliese 581, now you can live on ter to use just in case we run out of it unique of the planets, is covered in a a planet as dark and evil as the under- 55 Cancri e here. Where else will we get more to special type of pressurized ice that is belly of Robarts. Of course, no pictures Philosophers say that two things are spray onto our golf courses? hot to the touch. Burning hot. That’s of the surface exist. Just look at a black eternal for the UofT student: stress and right, now you can live on a Planet of square and pretend it’s a close-up of a student loans. You’ll want to take a trip Gliese 436 b Ice and Fire. At 33.4 light years away, leaf. I’m sure that sending radio mes- to 55 Cancri e, a planet that is essen- This Wilhelm Gliese dude sure is pop- you’ll probably get there before George sages to this place would return Eva- tially made of pure diamond, to get the ular. I don’t think he would have ever R. R. Martin releases his next book in nescence lyrics. financial equivalent of a medium-sized thought that his convenient catalogue the series anyway. nation in order to pay those loans off. of stars would contain such strange Female Authors Hate Him! “Canadian literary figure has discovered a revolutionary new way to alienate HUGE numbers of young book lovers!”

3 Arts You’ve Probably Never Heard of & Culture • The Strand

artisan water 100% authentic

“art” | Emily Pollock Top 8 Hipster Joints in Toronto The 6ix

Clarrie Feinstein | Recovering Hipster Enjoy Te Strand’s guide to the top hipster $500—it’s a steal! At the back of the store Ferret Café (198 College St.) rage in Toronto. Every weekend, the bar joints in the city. As Toronto culture is ex- is a hidden coffee lounge, where they spin After the popularity and warm reception of hosts a Gatsby party, where people must panding, some areas in this urban metropo- vinyl classics and serve tasty Americanos and Cat Café, another branch was opened only wear 1920s apparel in order to gain entry. lis are showing the full potential of what this lattes. Sit on a beanbag chair, listen to some a couple streets over. Te creators, who own Once inside, the space is decorated to the city has to offer. From vintage arcade bars, to Clapton, and buy a nice wool sweater all in four ferrets, wanted to show that their furry nines, with champagne glass pyramids that underground dance dens, to taco-only res- one go. children were not so different from your are miraculously refilled, even though wait taurants, the city has gone from mediocrity typical cats and dogs. While there have been staff isn’t hired. At midnight, the bartender, to cultural virtuosity. Is Drake to thank for Hidden Dumpling (856 Ossington St.) reports that the ferrets are somewhat violent Jay, pulls out his suit and performs with his that? Maybe, but this list will show you that When you walk down the long Ossington and unpredictable in nature, the original jazz band to the frenzied crowd with aerial Toronto has a lot to be credited for, even if strip, there’s a secret doorway passage to idea is attracting a large customer base. Dur- silk dancers descending to the stage. In the we do call it “Te 6ix” more frequently. owners Larry and Greg’s hidden apartment ing the last Friday of every month, they also morning, Te Gatsby resembles a normal, and patio restaurant! Tis dim sum haven play movies that feature ferrets, like Along everyday bar…not even a speck of glitter Fine Luke’s Dining (245 College St.) is worth the wait, as the lineup usually goes Came Polly (the most frequently played), can be spotted of the previous festivities. Tis diner is fairly new, having just opened down the block, but you’ll enjoy—at least— which demonstrates that ferrets are amiable, up last year, but it has an old-school diner three tasty dim sum when the hour is up. if not better pets. Te Watering Hole (74 Dufferin St.) vibe reminding us all that diners are still su- Try their “Daaamn-Sum” dish; it’s incred - Tis new hot spot is gaining quite the fol- per-cool (because the past is in). Tey serve ibly flavourful and only $10 per dumpling. Knit a Sweater, Read a Book! (109 Queen lowing. Te upper floor is a hot yoga stu- the classics, but with a twist. Enjoy their Sometimes during the week, specifically Sat- St. W) dio, apparently taking “hot” to even higher chocolate-coffee caramel milkshake with a urdays (3-4 PM) and Tuesdays (1-2 AM), Te title of this adorable Queen West cove temperatures. Some would question the ex- side of—you won’t believe it—brownie fries. you can catch the owners Larry and Greg says it all. Part bookstore, part yarn shop— tremes used but participants say the effects It’s essentially deep fried brownies. Or the DJing some sweet 90s hip-hop. you can sit down with your fellow readers are drastic—their dehydration is through the Luke’s Mega Burger with three meat patties, and knitters and collectively indulge in the roof! Which is why the main floor is home avocado, bacon, cheese, and garlic aioli. Can Turn of the Century Bikes (somewhere in coziest of activities. Tis old Victorian house to a water bar, which sells various types of you say no to extremely unhealthy comfort Parkdale) has been converted into a community space, nature’s finest creation. Te most popular food? Well, no, because then you’re not rid- We are living in the age of the bicycle (seri- where book clubs, poetry readings, and ac- customer choices are “Berry Storm” (wa- ing the foodie trend that is taking our gen- ously, if you don’t own a bike you are pretty tivist groups can gather and discuss their ter infused with berry essence) and “Cool eration by storm. Don’t forget to go to the much guaranteed to be socially ostracized grievances over knitting various garments. Cucumber” (water with cucumber slices). ice cream shop Sweet Jesus afterwards for for it). Bike stores have been cropping up Te owners close up the shop fairly early, While these drinks could easily be made at some dessert! all over the city selling the practical to the although residents have spotted people en- your own home, frequent customer Carol downright fancy. Turn of the Century Bikes tering the shop during the early hours of the says, “Tere’s something satisfying about Grandma’s Closet (789 Augusta Ave.) delivers on the latter, selling reclaimed bikes morning. Many rumors have been circulat- working all the water out of your body and At the very end of the main street in Kens- from the early 1900s. Because of the age of ing on what could be occurring during these then consuming professionally made water ington is Grandma’s Closet, a new clothing these vintage vehicles, most of the parts need odd hours. Is the store a front for a grow-op? right after.” It’s her money, so we didn’t com- store selling vintage chic garments. Various to be replaced, but it will have the feel of his- Toronto mafia? Underground disco? Be- ment. apparel items litter the shop, with hats hang- tory, which is the most important aspect— come a member and find out! ing from the ceiling, and shirts draped over no one will know, but you will—that’s even suspended birch racks. Tey have a great more hip! Te Gatsby (north of Shaw and Queen) selection of sunglasses ranging from $450- Tis Te Great Gatsby themed bar is all the

4 French Guys & Drake • The Strand The Picnik Revival: How Toronto’s Ambassador Is Bringing Simplicity Back

Alexandra Scandolo | Te “Drake” Writer

izing that Drake’s latest single cover designs were created cool little hearts to add to a picture? When you had that on Picnik, the original selfie-editing program. After the kid in your project group, you always ended up with this program was shut down years ago, many were heartbro- masterpiece of a cover for your work, and I wanted to ken—until now. While cadences of other fan-favourites have that aesthetic associated with my brand today.” FotoFlexer and Piczo can be seen on the covers for Pop Drake and his team have always been up-to-date on Style and One Dance, Drake spoke with the former CEO trends in order to enhance the rapper’s brand, and this of Picnik to revive the popular editing website to create business move to incorporate the opulent Picnik program the pictures you will see every time you open iTunes. shows their drive to refine Drake’s image. With each of Te special edition OVO x Picnik collaboration is his new single covers, Drake displays today’s minimalis- one of many outreaches Drake has fostered in the past tic tendencies through the use of vacant monochrome. few years. From pioneering his own brand of whiskey to It resonates with today’s throwback culture through the repping the Toronto Raptors basketball team, Drake has cover design’s confusing mixture of the gaudy font and cultivated a multifaceted public persona—but there has lack of images. been a missing flourish in his product portfolio, a miss- Drake has always been an innovator, especially when ing link until now. Te OVO x Picnik project will be taking something pre-existing and making it fit his own ground-breaking for Drake’s industry. Tis manoeuvre brand. While sitting in his courtside throne at the recent shows that Drake is not too godly for us, and he can Raptors game, Drizzy felt excited about the prospects still represent himself through a generic cursive font on OVO x Picnik has for the future: “I’ve always felt like a solid background. my vision has been bigger than the bigger picture. Tat’s When asked to comment on this new feat, Drake why it was so important for me to bring Picnik back simply told Te Strand that his inspiration to revive the for this project, even though it faltered under the sheer software stemmed from the nostalgia that he, and many pressure of a world looking to forget the fact that it ever Millennials everywhere have a new reason to worship others, have for the culturally effervescent year of 2006. tried to edit pictures on there. It’s time for this website to at Aubrey “Drake” Graham’s feet after his latest an- “I wanted my latest single covers to remind you of those rebrand, like I did when I got this beard.” nouncement. On April 5, Toronto’s deified rapper of- creative projects in middle school when you would get to ficially released two new singles from his upcoming al- throw together a flame track on GarageBand. Tere was bum Views From the Six. On that fateful Tuesday, our always that one kid who knew Picnik in and out, you tween selves had a sudden wave of nostalgia upon real- know? Tat kid who always knew how to make those cinema studies 101 a visual guide

Holly McKenzie-Sutter | Saw Some Movies Once As I say farewell to my days of Cinema Studies at the University of Toronto, I want to offer a visual syllabus of film theory’s forefathers. Here’s a crash course in film studies, pointing out the commonalities shared by this group of mostly-French men named Jean, who pio- neered commentary on the visual medium we all know and love, and smoked a lot of cigarettes in front of black- boards with French words on them.

PETER WOLLEN Wollen distances himself from the rest of the bunch by JACQUES MARIE ÉMILE LACAN being British, wearing plaid, having a lot of not gray Yes, Lacan’s middle name is Marie. Te size of this man’s hair, and rolling his sleeves up like a chiller. Truly a man cigar really emphasizes his importance to the history of ahead of his time. film theory. Without him, I would never have realized that every cinematic experience is really a reflection of the viewers’ castration anxiety. And if that doesn’t apply ANDRE BAZIN to you, well, I don’t know what to say. Maybe you just Te founder of the essential Cahiers du Cinema intro- haven’t watched a movie. duced us to a lot of really interesting movies—really, all of them are so interesting! Maybe you guys have heard of Jean-Luc Godard? Great guy. Anyway, here’s Bazin.

ROLAND BARTHES You’ve probably encountered this sly motherfucker in other courses, and can probably tell from the IDGAF JEAN-LUC GODARD look on his face that Barthes knows he has shaped mod- Not a theorist per se but truly the greatest filmmaker LAURA MULVEY ern semiotics and visual theory. Again, not a film theorist since Orson Welles, only kind of better because he re- Formative feminist film theorist Laura Mulvey concep- per se, but we still had to talk about him a lot, and from ally pioneered the medium by doing things like jump tualized the term “male gaze” with her essay “Visual his look it’s pretty clear that Roland B. fits right in. cuts and disrespecting a lot of women. Here’s the OG Pleasures in Narrative Cinema.” Couldn’t find a snap of himself. And don’t forget, he’s also a good person who Mulvey with any form of tobacco, not sure what else she loves dogs. lacks in common with the rest of the group. 5 OUR MASTHEAD Not Dead Yet!

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Anthony Burton [email protected] Rhianna Jackson-Kelso Holly McKenzie-Sutter

NEWS Nicole Paroyan [email protected]

OPINIONS Olivia Dziwak [email protected]

FEATURES Geoff Baillie [email protected] Claire Wilkins

ARTS & CULTURE Clarrie Feinstein [email protected]

FILM & MUSIC Bronwyn Nisbet-Gray fi[email protected]

STRANDED Neil MacIsaac [email protected]

COPY EDITING Jake McNair [email protected]

DESIGN Emily Pollock Monty Python Wiki [email protected] Grace Quinsey

PHOTO Genevieve Wakutz Anthony Burton | Editor-in-Chief (Outgoing) [email protected] A lot can happen in three years. Try and place yourself in 3 AM in the Stroffice, tying everything together while ART Seolim Hong Vice [email protected] 2013, and think of where things are at now: went slowly entering a state of Smash Mouth-induced delir- from articles about taking acid and going to a Stephen ium. Tere have been NASH conferences, whether in Harper rally to a monolithic, legitimate journalistic en- Ottawa (home of the world’s best Wine Rack) or here WEB Kasra Koushan [email protected] tity; Ezra Levant and SUN TV came and went. Drake’s in Toronto (where I learned that a 9-hour plenary is the released three albums; Te Strand’s written thousands worst place to have a hangover). Tere is a huge and EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Joshua Kim upon thousands of words about these albums. growing number of Vic clubs, levies, and events that Tanuj Kumar So why does it seem like it was just yesterday that I constitute the Vic community, a community that we Ainsley MacDougall was sitting nervously in the brand new Goldring Centre, have tried our best to cover this year. I’m sure next year’s Tristan McGrath-Waugh being interviewed for an Editorial Assistant position at team, the most eager, diverse, and capable group of edi- Tamilore Oshodi Te Strand? Maybe it’s because, after all the changes that tors I’ve seen yet, will continue to do this. Alison Zhou Te Strand’s gone through, it’s been such a huge part of I’m about to turn the page on my own time here, CONTRIBUTORS my life ever since that day I sheepishly pitched a review and it’s bittersweet. I’d like to thank Claire for urging me Harpreet Chohan, Ariana Douglas, Neil McKen- of in an interview. And despite all to get involved three summers years ago; it’s shaped me zie-Sutter, Sabrina Papas, Aaron Rambhajan, the talk about the death of newspapers over the last year, into who I am today. Paula, you were a true mentor, and Stephanie Spagnuolo we haven’t gone away yet. Tat’s because of the passion I wouldn’t have had any idea what I was doing without that our readers, writers, editors, and everyone who is your help. To the entire team this year: you guys rock COPY EDITORS involved in Te Strand bring every week. and I can’t wait to see how those of you who are sticking Sabrina Papas Te Strand is a community. Vic’s a tiny college. around continue the amazing work you did this year. Chances are you know someone who has written for Te And to my incredibly dedicated, intelligent friends and ILLUSTRATIONS Strand, or you’ve written for it yourself. Te main role co-editors Holly and Rhianna: we might be hightailing Seolim Hong, Emily Pollock of a small, biweekly newspaper like Te Strand isn’t to it out of here, but the next step Soon Come. report cutting-edge information on municipal, national, So next year, when you see the fresh faces of Vic open PHOTOS or international politics. It’s a forum for us all to par- their first copy of Te Strand, you’ll know they’re about Courtesy Wikimedia Commons and the Univer- ticipate in, the place where voices get heard and people to become a part of the community that has shaped all sity of Toronto Visual Studies Department can share their opinions, arguments, and learn a thing or of us into who we are today. And when you see them two. Words themselves don’t just build community—it’s open up this copy, rest assured: despite the tire fire that CREATIVE ADVERTISING DIRECTORS all of our shared feelings and experiences that do. And is the newspaper industry as a whole, because of you, Te Anthony Burton, Emily Pollock feeling, above all, is what makes us who we are. Strand’s not dead yet. Far from it. In my time at Te Strand, I’ve been a part of many communities, some smaller, some larger. Tere have been the small groups suffering countless nights up until

The Strand has been the newspaper of record for Victoria University since 1953. It is published 12 times a year with a circulation of 2000 and is dis- Congratulations to our 2016-2017 masthead! tributed in Victoria University buildings and across the University of Toronto’s St. George campus.

The Strand flagrantly enjoys its editorial autonomy and is committed to acting as an agent of con- Editors-in-Chief Film & Music Editor Photo Editor structive social change. As such, we will not pub- Erik Preston & Alexandra Scandolo Joshua Kim Victoria Butler lish material deemed to exhibit racism, sexism, homo/transphobia, ableism, or other oppressive language. News Editor Stranded Editor Illustrations Editor

The Strand is a proud member of the Canadian Erin Calhoun Celeste Yim Lynn Seolim Hong University Press (CUP).

Our offices are located at 150 Charles St. W., Opinions Editor Science Editor Web Editor Toronto, ON, M5S 1K9. Please direct enquiries Shailee Koranne Tanuj Kumar Kasra Koushan by email to [email protected]. Submissions are welcome and may be edited for taste, brevity, and legality. Features Editor Design Editor t Ainsley MacDougall Genevieve Wakutz

Follow us on Twitter for news and updates: Arts & Culture Editors Senior Copy Editor @strandpaper Molly Kay & Elena Senechal-Becker Tristan McGrath-Waugh

6 Editorial • The Strand

Holly McKenzie-Sutter | Editor-in-Chief (Outgoing) As I neglect my quickly-approaching final ing curves, listening to the “Disney villains” getting to work alongside some of the most editorial assistant, and every last Strandie for research papers of undergrad to write this playlist, and, overall, a lot of good times in enthusiastic, thoughtful, intelligent, and all- making this year one to remember. little thing, I can’t help but nervous-chuckle this office. around great people at Vic. Basically, I had To incoming EICs Ally Scandolo and about how appalled my high school self Two years ago, I was pretty disengaged a lot of fun this year, I hope the rest of the Erik Preston, and to the rest of the incoming would be at my current study habits. Grade from campus life and “too busy” to be in- crew did too, and I would have been swal- masthead—I’d wish you luck, but I know 12 @hollerdoller would have started work- volved (read: very lazy), when my friend lowed by the void by now had it not been you don’t need it. I can’t wait to see what you ing weeks ahead and would be studying for and former EIC Amanda Ghazale Aziz rec- for all of you. all do next year. Tis job ravaged my sleep an entire weekend before an exam, not be ommended that I write something for Te Special thanks to Amanda for getting schedule, my academic enthusiasm, and sitting in a campus office 36 hours before Strand’s magazine. In the years that have me involved all those years ago, to last year’s turned me into a mom before my years— a major academic deadline designing a Na- passed, I have to thank Amanda for en- EIC team of Amanda, Paula Razuri, and and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I miss tional Enquirer-esque cover and writing fake couraging me to get involved, and for her Emily Pollock for giving me some much- this dirty old office and the kids in it already. horoscopes. I also used to sleep. Basically, I continued proof-reads, leadership, informed needed guidance as a newbie section editor Please know that when I’m sleeping like a used to be a nerd, but over the last few years, and constructive feedback, and encourage- and writer who didn’t know how to log into brick for a solid four weeks after this issue is I’ve become a slightly related but quite dif- ment over the years, as editorial positions my email until halfway through September, finished, I will be missing you dearly in my ferent brand of nerd. I have my colleagues have taken over my life in the best way. and didn’t have a key to the building until unconscious state. and pals at Te Strand to thank for that, Tis past year we’ve had some incred- much later than that. Tanks also to Rhi- Tank you all, and good night. and I couldn’t be more grateful for the years ible work grace our pages, and I’m so proud anna and Anthony for co-running the ship PS: Please clean the office. Please. Love of joy, laughter, being tired, pizza, Photo- that we’ve been able to publish some of the and deciphering my illiterate text messages you. Bye. shop, yelling at computers, tracked changes, sharpest brains on campus. At the end of the throughout the year, and to each section edi- steadily increasing caffeine addiction, learn- day, the most rewarding part of this gig is tor, artist, photographer, writer, copy editor, 100% Sap (I Just Love You All So Much)

Rhianna Jackson-Kelso | Editor-in-Chief (Outgoing)

I’ll start off by admitting that I’m really my scared, timid, first-year self never would Tank you to our section editors, copy edi- passion I know you will put into your roles, bad at two things: reminiscing and saying have dreamed. tors, and contributors, who constantly turn just as this year’s masthead did before you. goodbye. With regards to the former, as that Te best of all the great things about out amazing content and make sure the Te Strand couldn’t have asked for a better previous sentence might indicate, I get re- Te Strand is the people, though. Te staff paper always looks sharp. Tank you to ev- group of people to inherit it. As hard as it ally sappy whenever I try to talk about good of Te Strand, despite evolving and chang- eryone who reads this eclectic rag week after is to say goodbye to this amazing chapter of things that are now over, and with regards to ing during my time here, has been my sec- week—we do it all for you. my life, I can leave with a smile knowing the the latter, my time at Te Strand has been a ond family and a home away from home. And thank you to Anthony and Holly. I paper is in your capable hands. very good thing that is, unfortunately, soon Tank you to Amanda Ghazale Aziz, whose couldn’t have picked two better people to go Apologies for being so cliché and su- to be over. So buckle up—this is going to get stories of her experiences as an Editorial As- on this wild journey with; working along- per, duper sappy, but it’s hard not to be. pretty syrupy. sistant at Te Strand throughout our first side you on the EIC team this year has been My entire university experience has been Tr u l y, Te Strand has been such an im- year moved me to apply for Editorial Assis- incredibly fulfilling and has taught me a lot. transformed by my involvement with Te portant part of my university experience. I tant in our second. More importantly, if she As much as our time together has been chal- Strand, and although, like any experience, it can’t begin to imagine where or who I would had not vouched for my abilities following lenging—full of steep learning curves, late- has been a mixture of good and bad things, be right now if this wonderful, ridiculous pa- that application, I would not be where I am night production delirium, and moments it’s impossible not to look back on it fondly. per hadn’t taken over my life back in second today. Tank you also to Paula Razuri, who where it seemed impossible that we’d be able If you’re reading this and happen to be year. From my time as a humble Editorial has been a wonderful mentor and a source to figure it all out—I’m really proud of what looking for a fun, fulfilling, transformative Assistant, to my stint as Senior Copy Edi- of infinite wisdom for the past three years. we were able to accomplish this year. You’re way to spend an alarming chunk of your tor (which definitely shaved several years off Tank you to Emily Pollock, whose end- both amazing, talented people, and I can’t time at university, I can’t recommend Te my life and taught me way more than I ever less hard work on the design of the paper wait to see what you go on to achieve. Strand more highly. thought I’d need to know about punctua- has quite often been the only thing that got To our incoming masthead, I know tion), to this last year as co-Editor-in-Chief, new issues out on time and prevented all of you’ll do an amazing job. Tank you in my time here has helped me grow in ways us from spiraling into a fiery pit of despair. advance for the dedication, hard work, and

From the Editors,

The Strand offers an apology for neglecting to credit the Assistant Copy Editors for Issues 7, 8, 9, and 11 on our masthead pages. The Strand could not print and maintain the same level of quality without them, and we deeply regret our failure to properly represent their efforts. We will be amending the affected issues for the online editions of the paper, which can be found at www.issuu.com/thestrandpaper, over the next few days.

Belated credit and thanks to: Sarah Armoogam, Amanda Ghazale Aziz, Justine Chen, Alexandra Jones, Tanuj Kumar, Ainsley MacDougall, Tristan McGrath-Waugh, Sabrina Papas, Arjun Sawhney, Christian Schoug, and Alison Zhou.

7 Stranded • The Strand 23 Rejected Theme Ideas for this Issue of The Strand Number 6 will shock you!

Te Strand Staff | Te Lifeblood of Te Strand 1. Death by Clickbait 13. Te Strand In Cyberspace 2. Borat 14. Te 1990s 3. Drake 15. Te 1590s 4. Paul Blart: Mall Cop 16. Te 1X90s/90s 5. DuckTales 17. Old Hollywood Glamour 6. Tables 18. Gatsby Party 7. What’s up with politics???!??! 19. Dad Jokes 8. Ted Cruz = Zodiac 20. Wild Wild West (Will Smith) 9. Questions 21. Bees??? 10. Magic ( ^-^)*^*~~ 22. Nihilism 11. Te Strand: ASMR 23. Enchantment Under Te Sea 12. Te Strand: TV Show Send me a DM if you know anything about the UTSU Neil McKenzie-Sutter | Confused Citizen Tis article is obviously a joke seeing as it’s live stream of the UTSU debate, but that VUSAC is not completely the same thing as was to sort of communicate with the school in the joke issue, but on a serious note if crashed less than halfway through. Also dur- UTSU, but it’s still politics, right? I just fig- or the different colleges on the students’ be- anyone knows some stuff about the UTSU ing the debate I tried researching some of the ured maybe someone there had an interest in half, but is that even correct? Why does the election my Twitter handle is @neilmsy. candidates, but the website for the second following UofT student politics or whatever. UTSU exist? Tweet at me, and also my Facebook name is major party—the 1UofT party, I think?— Te thing was there was only one guy Also, you vote in your ROSI account, Neil McKenzie-Sutter, same spelling as my yeah, their website also wasn’t working. So in the office and he explained that he wasn’t right? Someone told me that, although I name at the top of this article. Or email me, the only really solid information I have is for allowed to talk about the elections. don’t remember who. I’m asking because [email protected], whatever you prefer the UTSU establishment party. Also from What the heck? I checked that out and I don’t see the op- to use, because I guess this is also a challenge what I understand, in addition to the two I mean, no offence to the VUSAC or tion for that anywhere. Also, what’s the date to myself, and to the UofT student commu- parties, there are several significant inde- the dude I talked to, but that’s kind of an when we’re supposed to vote on that? I mean nity, to see if anyone understands anything pendent candidates. Does anyone have any odd rule I think. the UTSU. about this stuff. I mean elections shit. I’ve information/know where to get information So if anyone has any information about Yeah, if anyone knows any of that stuff been a student here for five years and I don’t about those dudes? the election that’d be sweet and you should that’d be sweet. understand anything. It’s kind of too late for Also something that I found interesting hit me up—about any of the stuff I’ve men- it to matter, for me anyways, but I guess I is that after the stream crashed out, I went tioned earlier in this piece, but also what is was just sort of interested to know. to the VUSAC office to see if anyone there the point of participating in the elections? I A few weeks ago I tried watching the knew anything about the election. I’m aware thought the reason for the UTSU to exist

Woman discovers WEIRD OLD TRICK to lose $20,000!

8 Stranded • The Strand Professors hate her!

Local Woman Never Goes To Class Or Does Readings!

TAKE THE QUIZ: Which Strand EIC are YOU? Ariana Douglas | Supreme Meme Queen Which sleep-deprived, barely-functioning member of society are YOU most like? What do you think of Drake? Fave colour? Fave war? Fave Shoppers Drug Mart location? a) If I hear one more word about a) Florals a) Te one that is not in Ba Sing Se a) Yonge & Charles Drake in relation to this godforsaken b) Plaid b) Te Battle of Helm’s Deep b) College Street newspaper, SO HELP ME I WILL c) Black c) Te War on Christmas c) Bloor & Bedford b) <3 him c) You see, I think that Drake is a Fave outft? Senior quote? How do you spend a lazy Sunday? pretty good litmus test for where a) Snuggie (pink, backwards) and a) Fuk dis shit, I’m out/Ollie outie a) Sleeping, like, a LOT trends in music are in any given footie pajamas b) U rock don’t ever change b) Slothing year. He’s very astute, very calculated b) Plaid c) I am here to assert Eternal Provi- c) Cookin’ Brussels sprouts and – look at last summer’s release of c) [Intentionally lef blank] dence and justify the ways of God to bumpin’ some U2 in my underwear Hotline Bling. What people neglect to men mention is the …….. Which meme do you relate to the

most? Dream job?

Toughts on Hawaiian pizza? a) Dog w/ hat in faming room (“Tis a) YouTube star you!

a) !!! Love it !!! is fne.”) b) Twitter star for friend the Burton’s Anthony ‘C’: MOSTLY

b) It is an abomination b) Jaden Smith c) Vine star friend! best

c) Pineapples belong on everything c) Te “I smell like beef” baby new your is McKenzie-Sutter Holly ‘B’: MOSTLY

but pizza Fav student paper? along! get would Fave Final Destination movie? a) Te Garg you and Jackson-Kelso Rhianna ‘A’: MOSTLY

How do you cope with stress? a) Final Destination Too: 2 Many b) Tiger Beat a) Sleeping, like, a LOT Final Destinations c) Te lyric book to the latest Semio- answered… you If b) Idk/Staring into the void b) Te Muppets Christmas Carol tones album c) Chain smoking c) Te one where Aeris dies

VICTORIA COLLEGE: we’re less smug and “establishment” than Trinity!*

* or at least we think we are

9 What’s in a Name? Why we need to change the Ryerson Stream name Stephanie Spagnuolo | Contributor

Illustration | Seolim Hong

10 Features • The Strand

Names matter, regardless of filtered into his own instructing stream’s courses, it is clear that pecially in schools, and having what Juliet might think—a One of teachers, where he applied the Ryerson name is contra- the stream named after some- program stream name reflects sexist expectations, particularly dictory to the purpose of the one who supported the creation the underlying ideals of the for female teachers. stream. of residential schools, a system program itself. Since the intro- His teaching style, which The fact that this stream is that oppressed so many First duction of the One programs, was also widely accepted at the named after Ryerson is actually Nations people, sets the stream a principle was founded in es- time, is described in education rather embarrassing. Ryerson back in its ability to foster so- tablishing opportunities for today as traditionalist and au- worked to establish a system of cial change.” Her sentiment is first year students to thought- thoritarian. His pedagogy was education that separated and remarkably supported and af- fully engage in small class-size that people needed “to learn in differed between White stu- firmed by most of the stream discussions to explore the in- order to practice.” He consid- dents and Aboriginal children. students this year, despite Ry- ter-connectivity of academic ered education to be the first He considered Aboriginal peo- erson not being mentioned in streams. This academic oppor- stepping-stone to prepare young ples to be part of an inferior cul- the course required readings on tunity pushes the boundaries workers. In the course reader of ture—one that needed a strict Residential Schools. of learning beyond the tradi- VIC151: Theories and Practices education that was Christian- These schools were not tional authoritarian school set- of Teaching, a required course focused and centered on assimi- meant to be educative, and as ting, and this is exactly what in the Ryerson stream, Egerton lation. His ideas are showcased future teachers, it is so impor- the Egerton Ryerson Vic One Ryerson’s teaching principles are in a study he authored in 1847 tant to acknowledge the role the stream encourages. The Ryer- described as “very strict.” for the Department of In- education system played in this son stream caters to students He favoured heavy dian Affairs, outlin- cultural genocide. It is clear to who have found their vocation discipline; a ing his sugges- see that Ryerson showed no em- in the teaching profession. The pathy in his views and decisions, stream itself invites students whereas the study and practices to critically deconstruct the of empathy are a core compo- role that education should play nent of the stream’s course con- in society, and how that dif- tent. Further, Ryerson’s actions fers from the role it currently go unacknowledged because Ry- plays. This stream, despite its erson stream students are never notoriously small numbers and required to take any Indigenous often-overshadowed presence Study courses as a co-requisite, among larger branches of Vic Perhaps our stream’s and because this aspect of his One, has succeeded in creating history goes unmentioned on students with perspectives that the Victoria College Ryerson challenge the norm. Many of deliberate avoidance of Stream webpage detailing the my classmates and I have grown stream, application, and name- to deconstruct the problem of sake. Even Ryerson University our stream’s name, and situate this hidden history is in- at least recognizes his contribu- that in the context of what the tions to the oppression of Ab- stream is compliant with and original peoples on their web- what students can learn from dicative of how shameful page, and makes a commitment it. A re-naming of the Ryer- to “build and maintain a cam- son stream is not only some- pus environment that welcomes thing that the students within Ryerson’s name really is and respects Aboriginal people.” the courses themselves demand; Perhaps our stream’s deliberate it will also undoubtedly bet- avoidance of this hidden his- ter the stream by perpetuating to an education stream. tory is indicative of how shame- values that enhance rather than ful Ryerson’s name really is to contradict the ethical and equi- an education stream. If it’s not table principles that an effective something to be ashamed of, teacher must embody. why not mention it, or at least Egerton Ryerson seems like acknowledge the harm he took an acceptable name for a teach- part in causing? ing stream. At face value, much r e a d i n g tions for Imagine a young Indig- like Ryerson himself, it appears quotes him as “ I n d u s t r i a l enous student with an inter- to be seated firmly on the right saying, “Humans Schools for the est in teaching applying for an side of history. Yet this con- have bad habits and benefit of the Aborigi- education stream. The stream tradicts the principles of the tendencies that need to be cor- nal Indian tribes.” This report promises to help shape them as teaching stream itself; requir- rected/need constant supervi- was used as a blueprint for Ab- a progressive, passionate, and ing young minds to think be- sion.” Although this education original Residential Schools, responsible educator—and then yond face value. (Speaking of style is described as “tradition- probably one of the most hor- they see the title, the namesake, principles, Ryerson was the first al” because of the time in which rifying and shameful acts of the person who has heavily con- principal of Victoria College in it was developed, this is no rea- Canada’s past. The effects of tributed to their own oppres- 1836.) In hindsight, it seems son to enshrine one of its pro- this cultural genocide are still sion, and the continuous suf- fitting to have such an accom- ponents in the stream’s name. ever-present for First Nations, fering of their people. They see plished man heading a College The stream’s values urge young Métis, and Inuit people today. that the namesake of the stream founded on colonialism and teachers to evolve from this In 1847, Ryerson’s wrote, is a participant in a hidden his- seated on stolen land: like a lot teaching style into one consist- “It is a fact established by nu- tory of oppression. They do not of historical men with dubious ing of more holistic, progres- merous experiments, that the see any acknowledgment or at- pasts, Ontarians undoubtedly sive, and socially reconstructive North American Indian cannot tempt at reconciliation for the owe a lot to Ryerson. He was the pedagogies. be civilized or preserved in a pain in which the namesake founder of the free and compul- The teaching profession it- state of civilization.” This despi- took part, not in the online sory public education system, self is in need of serious reform. cable statement, though a com- description on the application, laying the groundwork for the Through the rise of technology, mon perspective for the time nor in the stream’s short biogra- system of which we are a part. teachers will need to adapt to a period itself, is one we today phy of them. Every day they are He even established the first pedagogy that does more than have the power and responsibil- continually oppressed, their his- Ontario “Normal School”—an- just prepare their students for ity to recognize and reconcile. tory continually denied. Those other horrible name—which is the workforce. Rather, teachers Carmen Russo, a 2015-2016 wanting to be an educator to an institute for training young must engage the whole person Ryerson stream student, voic- actually educate rather than per- teachers. This name was right- in a holistic venture for growth es this concern, saying, “I be- petuate a victor’s curriculum— fully changed to “Teacher’s Col- and motivation for social jus- lieve that this Vic One stream this is the name of the stream lege.” His personal and, at the tice. Although this basic prin- is about recognizing oppression they come to. They do not feel time, socially acceptable, beliefs ciple echoes throughout the and exclusion in our society, es- welcome. Should you?

11 Film & Music • The Strand Review: Everybody Wants Some Sabrina Papas | Staff Copy Editor On March 24, the TIFF Bell Lightbox part is tiresome and, frankly, disap- As the film progresses, however, and actually be noticed. Furthermore, held an advance screening of Richard pointing for a film written and direct- the group of characters become just the relationship that develops between Linklater’s newest film, entitled Every- ed by Richard Linklater. Anyone who as likeable as those in Linklater’s past Jake and Beverly (Zoey Deutch), a the- body Wants Some. Linklater was present is familiar with his work knows that he films. On the surface, the group of col- atre major who lives on campus, reflects for a discussion on his career before is the most skilled at depicting small lege baseball players in Everybody Wants exchanges similar to those between introducing the film, and I was lucky moments between characters, making Some are nearly interchangeable with Jesse and Céline in Linklater’s Before enough to be in attendance. them seem highly human. This is lack- the “frat boy” characters of any main- trilogy, and makes up for the poor Set in 1980, Everybody Wants Some ing within these first 45 minutes of Ev- stream film, but below this, they are representation of women in the earlier follows baseball player Jake Bradford erybody Wants Some, and the expected true Linklater characters. They have portion of the film. Everybody Wants (Blake Jenner) during his first weekend mix of relatable characters are replaced depth, and seem less like stereotypes Some, much like Linklater’s other films, as a freshman at a Texas college. Upon with a group of guys who play baseball and more like real people. The charac- does not follow a formulaic structure. arriving at school, Jake meets his fellow and objectify women. Practically every ters articulate worries that are relatable His films are sustained by genuine rep- teammates, who are also the people he woman who appears onscreen sim- to any young person entering adult- resentations of relationships, and it was will be rooming with for the duration ply exists to be sexualised by the male hood. This became increasingly no- a relief to see this come through by the of his college career. characters. Dazed and Confused fea- ticeable during the second half of the film’s conclusion. The film was presented by Linklat- tured similarly chauvinistic males, ex- film, especially through the relation- Everybody Wants Some definitely er as a “cousin” to his 2014 film Boy- cept that film had a balanced ensemble ships that developed within the group. does not pass the Bechdel Test, but it is hood, and a “sequel” to his 1993 film cast of both men and women—women With a larger amount of scenes that still a highly enjoyable film—particu- Dazed and Confused, but this is diffi- who were more than bodies. It’s impor- only show a few characters speaking to- larly if you are a fan of Richard Lin- cult to discern within the first 45 min- tant to note that Everybody Wants Some gether, rather than the entire group in klater’s previous work. utes of the film. During this portion, is based off of Linklater’s own experi- a party setting, Linklater provides the the film mainly focuses on the group of ences as a baseball player in college, so viewer with a deeper understanding of guys as they attend discos and attempt its perspective is authentic, but it’s still each character. This allows for the ab- to impress the women they meet. This missing a balance of diverse characters. sence of specific characters to matter,

Studio Sessions Open Mic caps off year of growth Vic Records’s first live recording open mic sets the stage for the club’s future Anthony Burton | Editor-in-Chief On April 6, Vic Records hosted its of “The Old Ontario Strand,” Victoria This year, the club’s initial goal she said in an interview. “Music is a first-ever live recorded open mic, as a College’s original rallying song, a sort was to hold production workshops to platform that a lot of people love, but part of their “Studio Sessions” series. of proto-Frosh chant from the past. teach Vic students how to use a va- they don’t really know how to engage The event featured live performances But for years after that, without an riety of audio engineering tools and with a greater community of it.” from the musicians and bands in the executive team or a clear mandate, the equipment. With the success of the open mic, Vic community. It was fairly standard club’s status was in limbo. This year’s But with attendance at these the club hopes to host more in the for a Cat’s Eye event: Caffiends ca- open mic, along with production workshops lagging, the club decided future as well as expand the ways it tering, plenty of refreshments, and a workshops and DJ-ing Vic events, to reorient its approach. can help musicians at Vic. Hanania packed room. As opposed to the usual helped raise the club’s profile and in- “I was like, wow, we might be a lit- outlined plans for a series of song- open mic fare, however, the event had tegrate it more with the Vic commu- tle too purist about this,” Rambhajan writing workshops, recordings (the a twist: the live performances were re- nity. But it hasn’t been an easy road to remembered thinking after another club has recorded audio for the Hart corded, to be released as part of a new visibility. workshop with low attendance. “We House Jazz Ensemble and will soon initiative for Vic Records. “We spent a lot of time this year were understanding this music club in be recording for some of the artists The event capped off a year of trying to figure out exactly what Vic a certain way, which isn’t how other featured in the open mic), and more growth for a club that has been rela- Records means to the community,” people [were] understanding it.” community events to bring musicians tively inactive for the last three years. club executive Aaron Rambhajan said Charlène Hanania, another mem- together under one roof. The last time the club released any- in an interview. “We started the year ber of the club, joined after attending “When people get together around thing was in 2010-2011, when they focused on workshops, but the turn- one of the workshops with the idea music, it always turns out well,” Hana- released a limited-run compilation out wasn’t really what we wanted it to that something different could be nia said. “That’s what we want to help of original recordings by Vic artists. be. So we took a while to try and fig- done. “I was like, you guys should be people do.” This compilation includes a rendition ure out where we can fit in at Vic.” reaching out to the community more,”

Conflicts of Space: A review of Majid Jordan’s self-titled album

Aaron Rambhajan | Contributor Majid Jordan, the eponymous debut al- ments, all of which come together to rework of “Pacifco” which feels like a conversation, responding and reacting. bum from Toronto duo Majid Al Mas- make the contrasting architecture that cheap rework of the preceding “Small In cuts like “Something About You,” kati and Jordan Ullman, is a nighttime defnes the mood of Majid Jordan. Be- Talk,” making for a mundane, repetitive and “Every Step Every Way,” they really cityscape with its dark, warm, atmo- ing lef to their own wits, the album stretch of songs. Not so brilliant. It’s a toy with space and texture—the sounds spheres interjected by hovering build- was a commercial failure—this was confusing phenomenon as they demon- are ephemeral, elusive, and positioned ings and their glow. Te record is a veri- their frst substantial work unattached strated masterful cohesion on their frst such that they never to give too much, table mood, stylistically borne of 808s & to OVO Sound label-head Drake, and EP A Place Like Tis, but lose it so pro- but remain suggestive to listeners. Tey Heartbreak by and House their inability to defne their audi- foundly in the aforementioned songs. follow similarly on “Warm,” making of Balloons by Te Weeknd, using their ence ultimately inundates them. Teir Te style they’ve adopted is one disillusioning contrasts of space with elements to create a bona fde dance re- lack of a singular audience facilitates that has proliferated in recent years, an haunting melody. Te highlights of the cord. Majid Jordan succeed most when instances where they desperately call R&B-driven pop that fghts atmosphere album are intensely clever and laden they embrace their dance inclinations, upon disingenuous pop theatre (“Paci- and tactility. It’s a style that has aford- with groove, and their use of the spatial perpetuating the physicality of sound, fco”), and in others efortlessly suc- ed both the singer and the producer juxtaposition—the fuid atmosphere of but fail hardest when they become pop. ceed with their own of-kilter, spa- a voice, and Majid Jordan’s prowess instruments, the interjection of per- Teir failure to reconcile their main- tially-subversive styles (“Every Step has been their attention to every mil- cussion—is ultimately what makes this stream inclinations and authenticity is Every Way”). Te album’s dead weight lisecond of sound. Teir innovation is a physical dance record. However, its symptomatic of a new agenda—audi- speaks to the internalised war between found within an ability to turn spatial core brilliance is besieged by a confict- ence—and is ultimately what defnes the mainstream style and their own in juxtaposition into dialogue, which is ul- ing desire to reach to an audience that this album. the excessive, questionable percussion timately the key to great dance music. isn’t theirs, becoming incredibly frus- Teir vocabulary consists of round, of “Shake Shake Shake,” and the long- Tey engage their brilliance on massive trating as they reduce their potential to sub-bass kick drums; airy, rippling ing-but-preachy vocals of “King City.” successes like “Learn From Each Oth- a whisper. snares; and atmospheric, tactile instru- “Shake Shake Shake” feels like a cheap er,” which sees producer and vocalist in 12 Arts & Culture • The Strand A closer look inside UofT’s Visual Arts Department

Elena Senechal-Becker | Arts & Culture Editor

ferent media. I took classes in photography, installation, video, and performance. Tere are introductory classes starting in 200-level to each for a specific medium, followed by more intensive and focused classes in the years after that.

Has the art department’s separation from the Faculty of Arts and Science impacted your studies in any way?

I was in the VIS program during the tran- sition from Arts and Science to Daniels. Before, we were in the stunning 1 Spadina building, which really laid down a back- ground for the classes in a way. Ten the next year we were in the Borden Buildings, which are, ahem, quite different. Te physi- cal change is definitely what stood out to my friends and I during the [move]. A lot of us elected not to move faculties out of fear of the bureaucratic nightmare that would be. Is it different a few years after? Te program is still in the Borden Buildings. When the time comes that 1 Spadina is all shiny, bright, new, and renovated, will there be room for the VIS program? Or will we be watching from across the street from our corner of the faculty? Photos | UofT Visual Studies Department In your experience, does the visual arts When we think about a visual arts educa- but Daniels is more suited to the creative within the fine arts. program at UofT lack funding from the tion in Toronto, UofT may not be the first endeavours of visual arts students. Profes- Unfortunately, the small size of the Vi- University? school that comes to mind. Other schools sor Lisa Steele, who has been a part of the sual Arts Faculty has made it almost invis- like the Ontario College of Art and Design Visual Arts Faculty since 2001, suggests that ible to the rest of the student body. But this Yes. It’s a small program—and many of its (OCAD), or even Ryerson and York, may the transfer has made an impact in a very doesn’t mean that they can’t get involved. benefits come from that fact—but side by be first in line for students looking to pur- positive way, allowing for smaller classes and For instance, students interested in minor- side with other fine art programs in the city, sue an education in the visual arts. However, a greater sensitivity to the importance of stu- ing in visual arts can do so, and all it takes is even its spiritual neighbor at UTSC, it pales this isn’t to say that UofT doesn’t have some- dio-based teaching. According to Professor four VIS credits. Professor Steele mentions: in comparison in terms of facilities and ex- thing of artistic note to offer. Steele, the support and resources provided “Te students bring into the [visual arts] hibition opportunities. Tere isn’t even a One of the University of Toronto’s best- by the university recognise the value of the classroom whatever else they are doing in permanent student-run gallery for showing kept secrets is the Visual Arts faculty, a small program, and the communication is favour- more academic classes. Tis is what makes work—who can say that about any other nook hidden within the John H. Daniels able between both the Arts and Science Fac- the UofT Visual Arts Faculty interesting university’s fine art program? Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and ulty and the John H. Daniels faculty. compared to other schools.” For students Design. On the Daniels website, a separate Professor Steele, who also used to work who just want to appreciate the art on cam- Would you recommend UofT to someone tab indicating “Visual Studies @Daniels” at OCAD, maintains that the UofT pro- pus, there are fourth year thesis exhibitions looking to study visual arts? is the only portal of information about the gram has a lot to offer to visual arts students every April and a huge diversity of media all program. Offering an innovative Honours who would prefer to study in a more “aca- around campus. I would, yes. I loved my time there. You just Bachelor of Arts program for undergrads demic environment.” Te program has be- We asked Blair Swann, a recent gradu- need to be aware of its specific personality, and a Masters in Visual Arts for graduate gun accepting students in a “direct entry” ate of the visual arts program, to answer a and hold it up to other schools and what students, the faculty aims to provide “in- approach, meaning students can be admit- few questions on his experience with the you yourself are looking for in a program. struction in studio practice, combined with ted directly from high school. Te program faculty. It’s small—but intimate connections and critical discourse involving all aspects of con- offers the possibility of taking other, non- true criticism from professors comes out of temporary visual culture, through lectures, visual arts programs at the same time, and Te Strand: Can you give an example of that. It doesn’t have a lot of facilities com- seminars, and field trips.” the degree obtained at the end of under- a visual studies course you took? What pared to other schools—but it leans on a Te visual arts program, which used to grad is a Bachelor of Arts, as opposed to the medium(s) did you work in? strong conceptual foundation that builds up be part of Arts and Science, transferred to Bachelor of Fine Arts provided by most art skills in writing about and criticizing your Daniels in 2013. Tis change came with its schools. Tis gives flexibility to students in Blair Swann: Te VIS program is very inter- own work. share of pros and cons, as the Arts and Sci- their future undertakings, as they can pursue disciplinary. Te program really pushes you ence Department receives more funding, other graduate degrees that aren’t necessarily to take a variety of classes and explore dif-

13 Opinions • The Strand Come to the movies, just be on time

Harpreet Chohan | Contributor Illustration | Seolim Hong

Modern audiences aren’t used to Hitchcock didn’t have strict many rules around attending mov- rules about punctuality for just any ies, but they used to be much more movie. Psycho was significant (if you common. When Alfred Hitchcock’s haven’t seen it, I don’t want to ruin film Psycho was being advertised, the surprise for you). He wanted to Hitchcock made it clear that no make sure audiences were up-to- one would be allowed to enter the date on the story; if you walked in theatre after the show had started. late, chances are you would be lost To emphasize the late policy, adver- for the entire film. You can, on the tisements for the film said, “Surely other hand, walk in late or leave you don’t have your meat course af- during many films that lack story ter your dessert at dinner.” Another without being negatively affected by important aspect from the adver- what you missed. For example, con- tisements was, “If you can’t keep a sider Steven Spielberg’s Duel. The secret, please stay away from people entire film is about David Mann after you see Psycho.” (Dennis Weaver), the protagonist, Today, I think most of us would being chased by a truck driver. If think this idea is silly. People walk you walked in late during Duel, you in late to the theatre, bringing would have only missed more of in popcorn and drinks the chase scenes. from the busy line- However, walking ups. I remember in late or getting up going to watch and leaving dur- a film from the ing a film such Paranormal Ac- as The Sixth tivity series, Sense would and people Of course, people go have ruined kept going in to the movies to have the experience; and out of the a good time, but we all you might have theatre dur- need to come to ap- missed the ing the movie. preciate the film from scene when Mal- They didn’t to- start to finish. colm (Bruce Wil- tally ruin my ex- lis) gets shot, and perience, but I then is seen lying on Illustration | Te Hitchcock Zone Things come up the bed. After this is a that force you to leave the time jump to “the next fall.” theatre. Maybe you need to use the If you left during the film, you could you make a commitment to yourself sure you get what you paid for, es- washroom, or maybe you get an im- have missed the scene in which Cole to sit and watch the film from start pecially if there is something unique portant call. It’s not good to be late (Haley Osment) reveals his secret to to finish without any distractions. like mystery, suspense, surprise, or for anything, but I think when it Malcolm: that he sees dead people. When you watch movies on Netflix fear. comes to going to the movies, peo- These scenes are important, as all or on your laptop, you can pause or If filmmakers today feel that ple think it’s not a big deal to walk of these elements tie together at the rewind to make sure you get all the they must use Hitchcock’s strict late in a couple minutes late or leave end of the film. details you may have missed, but at policy to make sure people get what during the show. You may think to Walking in late to the theatre the movies you don’t get that op- they paid for, it would still make yourself, “After all, it is just a mov- for a movie defeats the purpose of portunity. That is what makes going sense to do so. Don’t wait for the se- ie. You are not losing anything by going to the movies. Of course, to the movies special. crets to be spoiled when you can be missing the beginning or the middle people go to the movies to have a Remember that, for many of us, on time and see them for yourself. of Paranormal Activity, or any other good time, but we all need to come the film will always be just a mov- movie.” However, that is not the to appreciate the film from start to ie, but to a director, it’s something point. finish. When you go to the movies, more than that. They want to make

14 News • The Strand VUSAC ratifies omnibus referenda, new levy heads at final meeting

Erik Preston | Editor-in-Chief On Friday night, VUSAC held its final levy fund use most of their budgets to Outgoing Chief Returning Officer up to Council to deem the results not meeting of the 2015-2016 school year. cover fixed costs. Some levies, such as Saambavi Mano and Vice-President Ex- binding, and doing so would only fur- Following an election season plagued Acta Victoriana, have gone over budget ternal Alex Martinborough argued for ther the conception that VUSAC is by poor turnout, VUSAC’s constitution this school year as a result. a literal interpretation of the constitu- stuck in the “Vic bubble.” required both the new VUSAC board For example, in previous years, The tion, saying that it is not the Council’s A further referendum held in the and several referenda to be ratified by Strand has been able to print 4,000 discretion to make referenda decisions recently finished election cycle was to the existing council. The VUSAC con- copies of each issue, a figure that has on behalf of the VCU if the 10 percent allow VISA, the Victoria International stitution requires a 15 percent VCU now been reduced to 1,800 due to bud- threshold isn’t met. They insisted that Students Association, to become a levy. turnout for elections, and a 10 percent get constraints. Allowing the levy fund the decision be delayed until another It was argued by VISA Co-Presidents turnout for referenda, for the results to to increase with the Consumer Price referendum can be held during the fall Satoko Nakamoto and Maiko Mit- be considered binding. Neither of these Index would allow for an increase with election cycle. suhashi that allowing the group to thresholds were met in the election. inflation, allowing for budgets to re- Other VUSAC members, such as become a levy, and the benefits that The VUSAC office was packed main at a constant level. outgoing Co-President Gabriel Zoltan- would come with that designation, with nearly 40 people, as incoming A lengthy debate surrounding the Johan and Councillor Carl Abraha- would allow for greater accessibility and outgoing levy heads gathered for validity of the referenda results ensued msen, argued that, despite the low and involvement of international stu- ratification of their successors and to as a result of a turnout below the 10 turnout, granting this funding increase dents in the Vic community. argue for the ratification of the refer- percent threshold. The VUSAC consti- would only serve to benefit the student All incoming levy heads were rati- endum to increase levy funds in line tution states that in a case such as this, body, and that any further delay would fied, along with the various referenda with the Consumer Price Index. Levy the results “may not necessarily be con- not benefit levies or VUSAC. Abraha- in an omnibus format. funds have not increased in over ten sidered binding by the VUSAC, upon msen pointed out that the wording of years, necessitating that almost every the discretion of the council.” the constitution indicated that it was

Online polls fight student democracy Erin Calhoun | News Editor On March 19, online voting polls 2016 election on the main page of vot- where she clarified and updated vot- delay, Mano implemented a separation opened for the VUSAC election, for ing.utoronto.ca. Instead, the page only ers on the issues occurring and steps to of voting, where the referendum and students to elect new and returning showed past elections that students resolution. In addition to the system Board of Regents would be voted upon members into council. Upon the first were eligible to vote for. destroying the referendum, it had also around the following Sunday or Mon- few hours of the online program run- Online voting system opera- taken away the ability to choose more day. ning, technical difficulties occurred tions were stop and go until approxi- than one Board of Regents representa- Mano announced that Board of and became problematic for students mately 1 AM. At 1:20 AM, Assistant tive, which did not allow for freedom Regents and levy referendum results looking to place votes for the Board of Chief Returning Officer, Seraphina of choice between all three candidates. would be released on March 29. All Regents position, and the referendum. Vasilodimitrakis-Hart, stated in the The system also denied the start of a three candidates, Benjamin Atkins, Chief Returning Officer, Saamba- VUSAC 2016 Elections Forum Face- new election. Mano explained that Hannah Brennan, and Chris Knipe, vi Mano, opened the polls for Victo- book group, “There is a problem with VUSAC elections could continue until were elected to the Board. ria College students to vote for their the voting lists that we received from the end of the week, but there would chosen candidates at 12 AM on March voting.utoronto.ca. We’re trying to fix have to be a separate election for the Full election results can be found at 19. Only a few minutes later, Mano it right now. We’ll keep you updated as referendum and Board of Regents rep- http://www.vusac.ca/#!results/c1i9b. reported that the system had to be we fight the system.” Vasilodimitrakis- resentatives. shut down to fix an error, and asked Hart then requested that those who The point of contact for solving students to hold off casting votes for had already voted cast their vote once the system errors at voting.utoronto. the time being. At 12:30 AM, students again to validate it. ca was missing until March 21, too began to report that they were not see- At 3:07 AM, Mano also posted on long a period to delay the end of the ing the option to vote in the VUSAC the Elections Forum Facebook page, elections. Because of the length of this

15 VIC STUDENT LIFE:

NEW FUNDING STRUCTURE FOR VIC CLUBS & LEVIES

ONLINE VOTING MALFUNCTIONS complicate VUSAC ELECTIONS

PAGE 15

VICTORIA UNIVERSITY’S STUDENT NEWSPAPER VOLUME 58, ISSUE 12 - APRIL 12, 2016 what's in a name?

the case for changing the name of Vic one's egerton ryerson stream

Page 10

art in the academy

a look at u of t's visual studies

program Page 13

vic records open mic reel time: the strand reviews brings together the vic why punctuality is key everybody wants some and musician community for the movies majid jordan

PAGE 12 PAGE 14 page 12