ISSUE 1620 FRIDAY 4th DECEMBER 2015
The Student Newspaper of Imperial College London
The science of How problematic are the Kardashians the sabbs?
PAGE 9 SCIENCE PAGE 5 COMMENT
BEIT BASEMENT PROJECT DEEMED
‘INFERIOR’Multimillion pound redevelopment “significantly worsened” student facilities report, commissioned redevelopment of the student media on behalf of Imperial facilities. College Union, described With work completed over the work completed on summer of 2014, and spaces opened Beit’s west basement as having gradually during the winter term, createdA a facility “considered to be numerous sound isolation problems very much inferior to that which were identified, with several existed before, with a significant complaints launched by residents portion of it being unusable.” in Beit hall regarding the levels of It also referred to shortcomings in noise coming from the Jazz and the design and construction of the Rock practice room. By the Easter IC Radio studio, Jazz and Rock, and break, complaints had reached such control rooms, which has led to poor a level that the practice room was soundproofing between the spaces. closed indefinitely. Several clubs are housed in the The entire cost of refitting west basement, including Jazz and both the east basement with new Rock, and the Media societies, bedrooms and the west basement and it is these that have been most with new storage and media affected. facilities was around £2.5 million. Planning for the basement The media facilities alone, including redevelopment began in 2013, design, VAT, and furniture cost in when College proposed converting the region of £900,000, with funds Beit’s east basement into additional coming from the College. Imperial bedrooms for Beit Hall. Much of the College Union then spent a further east basement was used as storage £100,000 supplying the space with for union clubs and societies, but equipment. this was to be moved to the west A union representative told side, with the overall size of the FELIX that the union would space for media clubs shrinking to “continue to work with the College make room. In compensation for and Media group societies to resolve the reduction in space, included in the problems that we are facing with the project would be a much needed the facility”. th PAGE 2 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 felixonline.co.uk
Contents A word from the Editor Editor-in-Chief News 3 Grace Rahman
Comment 5 News Editor Cecily Johnson Science 7 hat’s a sabb? Your Maybe you just really love clubs Comment Editors Features 10 guess is as good as and societies, really care about safe Tessa Davey and Vivien Hadlow mine, mate. Points spaces and welfare and shit, or you Clubs & Societies 12 if you know that just have a truly unhealthy obsession Science Editors sabbatical officers exist, get paid with the academic representation Jane Courtnell and Lef Arts 15 aW hearty £19,000 a year, are given system. If any of the above sound Apostolakis free accommodation and don’t have like you, it might be worth running. Film 23 to pay council tax. Sounds pretty Hell, it’s definitely worth running Arts Editors cushy. Bonus points if you know (financially, that is – see above). Ever Indira Malik, Jingjie Cheng Food 28 who any of them are, and answers tried to strike up a conversation and Max Falkenberg on a postcard if you know what any with someone in the library cafe Music 29 Music Editor of us actually do. by offering them food with your Cale Tilford As you hurtle down various face printed on it? It’s character TV 32 A-roads on the way home for the building. If you’ve done door-to- Film Editor Christmas holidays, a lot of you door canvassing for your local MP, Fred Fyles Welfare 34 will be wondering what the hell this’ll be a breeze, since presumably, you’re going to do next year. Maybe no-one you’d be campaigning for Welfare Editor Hangman 35 you’re a little behind on the old grad this time is guilty of a war crime. Noor Mulheron job front and you’re getting a bit This week, we’ve featured an to. And essentially they do. I can Puzzles 36 nervous about your life plan after interview with the union president, safely say we’re obsessed with our Sports Editor Josh O’Donnell that Imperial ID card expires. It and it got someone in the comment work and are always thinking about Sport 38 could be this mentality that freaks section a little riled. Do sabbs need student welfare, club budgeting, Puzzles Editors people out enough to print hundreds to be 100% representational of or producing tip-top content for Hamish Beck and Roxana of posters of their own face, make the student body? Should we have millennials. Radu FELIX, Beit Quad, an embarrassing video that you’ll Facebook polls over every desk the We’re paid to care, so use us, Prince Consort Road, forget is on YouTube until someone union purchases? Probably not. don’t abuse us and be kind, because Food Editor London SW7 2BB finds it, and cry in Metric when you We all vote for the sabbs most arguably, we’re just as clueless as to Sanjay Bhattacharya Tel: 020 7594 8072 win/ don’t win/ get confused as to representative of our views and then how to get good stuff done as you Copy Editors Printed by Iliffee Print Cambridge, whether or not you’ve won. hope they do what we want them are. Mattin Mir-Tahmasebi, Winship Road, Cambridge Henry Lloyd Laney, James Registered Newspaper Bates and Paulien Smeele ISSN 1040-0711 Copyright © FELIX 2015 Letters (kinda)
In response to ‘Feminism isn’t just Saying ‘I’m a feminist’ really themselves as “feminist” mean identifying themselves and spreads “student trustees”. The truth is for girls’, Issue 1613 says very little about one’s “liberal feminist”. This stemsuntil we have a critical mass. our sabbs do nothing but seal and ideological standpoint. It is no from the idea of equality for all, @Nas Andriopoulos stamp on what they want to do. Dear Ed, more descriptive than saying ‘ I’m irrespective of gender, race, religion, A classical liberal and liberal This is why a lot of major changes I was glad to read the Angry a Labour supporter’. Well are you disability, sexual-preference etc. feminist take place over summer before the Grad’s article “Feminism isn’t just a Blairite or a Corbynite? These which is (thankfully) something new sabbs completely know what’s for girls” in the 13th November issue, views are incredibly different, often on which most people can agree. I I wouldn’t dare put words in happening. There is a real focus on and I could not agree more with contradictory and only loosely fall into this category and I suspect Angry Grad’s mouth, mate. She’s increasing revenue to make all this the sentiment behind the title. The related. The more extreme schools Angry Grad does too. well scary. seem worthwhile, which is why author alludes to the fact that the of feminism (radical, French, Currently the liberal feminists -Ed. FiveSixEight makes over £250k a actions and beliefs of some of the separatist etc) generally call for the do not identify strongly enough. year in profit. This is the money that more extreme schools of feminism whole-scale change of the structure We allow the extremes of any the union says they invest in clubs, not only dissuade people from of society, whereas liberal feminism movement to yell louder, dominate In response to ‘Union spends five but club money is provided in grant associating with the title, but also predominately strive for gender the headlines and often tarnish the grand on desk’, Issue 1619 by the college. The total pot for are often used by opponents of equality in the current society from reputation of the whole movement. money for clubs were increased for feminism to diminish the whole a universal-rights based standpoint. This is putting off would-be [REDACTED] has got the the first time last year but saw a cut movement. Many people would feel deeply sympathisers and allowing the trustee board to increase his wages for the previous five years. There was I would like to share an idea, uncomfortable associating with the opposition to tar all feminists with to over £80k while other staff were a time the total pot was over £400k. which I hope the Angry Grad and more extreme views, and one can the same brush. made redundant to cut costs. Long ‘Anon knows’ (online) others adopt, in order to tear down see how “I’m a feminist” could be If we want to see the income gap term staff were let go and replaced this common straw-man fallacy interpreted in all manner of ways. disappear and an equal number of with inexperienced new people in FELIX can neither confirm nor and evade some of the mistargeted As such, there is much to be gained women in positions of power, then the name of cutting staff wages. deny the above statements. Gee, criticism that the majority of by being more precise about our the mainstream movement needs This is just a small example of the and we thought the £5000 light-up feminists face. It all comes down to views. to identify themselves as such. It control exerted by the top bosses at desk pissed *us* off. a matter of precision. Most people who describe begins with each liberal feminist the union while they hide behind -Ed. felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4th DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 3
NEWS [email protected] Imperial represents at climate march Donning lab coats, students protested ahead of COP21 in Paris
Peter Munton thousands of protesters, taking place Writer around the world ahead of a crucial UN climate summit in Paris. Other UK cities that hosted ast weekend saw Imperial marches include Bristol and students along with over Edinburgh. 50,000 people march In Paris, hundreds of pairs of through the streets of shoes were placed in the Place de la central London to campaign for Republique to replace the protesters Laction from governments against who could not march as a result climate change. of the event being cancelled amid Organised by Imperial College security concerns. A human chain Environmental Society, over 40 was also formed by hundreds of Imperial students joined the Parisians linking arms along the student bloc of the climate march route of the cancelled march. to demand that global leaders take The 2015 United Nations Climate action to tackle the growing threat Change Conference, known as the of global warming. Conference of the Parties (COP21), Dressed in white lab coats will be held in Paris from Monday and handing out climate change 30th November until Friday 11th factsheets to members of the public, December. 147 heads of state from the Imperial cohort made their way from Park Lane down to the Houses of Parliament. With an audio Over 40 This sign is 100% recyclable. Photo Credit: Jen Ho Ker speaker in the midst of our team, campaign-appropriate songs were Imperial around the world will converge temperatures. summit. The campaigners who blasted out as well as the occasional on the French capital to attempt Over the two weeks of the marched hoped that there will be a Imperial March theme. to reach a consensus on climate conference, the attending parties successful consensus from the talks High profile figures such as Emma students change. will discuss a potential new global in Paris, with a firm agreement to Thompson, Charlotte Church and The 21st session of COP21 has agreement on climate change.The reduce the impact of human activity. Jeremy Corbyn, adressed the crowd. joined the seen over 190 nations gathering last time the world discussed the Whatever the outcome, those that The London march was the largest in Paris, with the aim of reducing possibility of a climate change deal marched sent a clear signal to our of roughly 2,500 demonstrations, student bloc the emission of greenhouse gases and came close to an agreement, world leaders: they want a cleaner, which included hundreds of amidst dangerous rises in global was in 2009 at the Copenhagen safer, more just future for everyone.
Imperial’s Charity Week raises over £61,000 Over £750,000 was raised internationally
his week it was speakers from the UAE and US to partnership with Islamic Relief. announced that Imperial speak on the topic in SAF. “The members of the ISOC College’s Islamic Society Charity Week began in the have worked tremendously hard (ISoc) have managed to year 2000, as a combined effort throughout the summer and first raise £61,648.31 for good causes as between the University of London part of the term to make Charity partT of Charity Week. Union’s ISoc network. It’s now an week the success that it is,” said The week included streetinternational campaign, with ISocs Jawaad Farooq, ISoc’s President. collections, the ‘Smoky not Smudgy’ from the UK, the US, and Qatar, “We’re proud and humbled that fashion event, a climb up Mount now involved. we have this opportunity to make Snowdon, and the annual Charity Over £750,000 was raised this a positive difference in the world Week dinner and auction. This year year in the UK, which is an increase during our time at university.” the bid for a mosque-shaped cake of 22 grand on last year’s final There will be a poll to determine reached a whopping £2200, and a figure. £435,000 of this was raised how the funds are spent. As well as teddy bear was bought by ISoc and by students at London universities. funding care for newborns in Gaza, Muslim Medics for two grand. Last year, ISoc broke their own students can nominate to aid Syrian The gang also sold hoodies, record by raising a mammoth Refugees with psychosocial support organised a charity football £83,401.70. and education, as well as other tournament, and held a conference Not a charity in its own right, projects in Malawi, Pakistan, India, on ‘Overcoming Obstacles’, inviting Charity Week operates in Myanmar and the UK. This was one expensive cake. Photo Credit: ISoc th PAGE 4 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 felixonline.co.uk
NEWS [email protected] Junior doctor strikes called off The government finally accepts junior doctors’ suggestion to involve an independent negotiating service
Grace Rahman overwhelmingly in favour of strike Editor-in-Chief action on the 19th of November. The first strike was planned for this Wednesday, and would have seen n Monday, it was junior doctors walk out in every announced that the department except emergency care. junior doctor strikes that Two subsequent strikes would have had been planned for been full junior doctor walk-outs. this Wednesday and two other dates Speaking to the Mail on Sunday Oin December had been suspended, after the strike ballot result was due to a last-minute breakthrough announced, Hunt accused pro- in negotiations between the British strike junior doctors of “bullying” Medical Association (BMA) and on social media, and compared the the government over proposed NHS on the weekends to flying in contract changes. a plane “without a co-pilot”. He Many were angered when Jeremy called the BMA the “toughest union Hunt, the controversial health of the lot”, alluding to the fact that secretary who has spearheaded The strikes have been suspended for the time being. Photo Credit: FELIX the proposed changes, tweeted: “Victory for common sense. Strike a historical doctor’s union resisted Most GP practices were that patient safety was their main shouldn’t have been called w/o Most GP the initial construction of the NHS. unaffected, but thousands of hospital concern, with strikes being the talking to govt first but great for 7 He neglected to mention that this appointments and operations had last resort in a desperate situation. day services”, along with a link to practices opposition lasted just two months already been cancelled in preparation Proposed contract changes would the Acas statement announcing the and was back in 1948. The same for the strikes. However, junior see working hours currently classed strikes had been called off. newspaper broke the news of the doctors argue that strike action was as unsociable be reclassified, which The talks have recently been were strike ballot result as ‘Dirty tricks of the only option left to demonstrate the BMA says will see junior doctors reopened with the help of Acas’ strike doctors’, and repeatedly refers to the government how serious the work “dangerously long hours” and negotiation services, after breaking unaffected to activist Anna Warrington as the situation regarding work hours and recieve a significant pay cut. down last year. Junior doctors voted campaign’s ‘strike cheerleader’. pay was. The BMA have always said
Anne Robinson’s dismay at Kensington sculpture You are a terrible waste of money, goodbye
his week, plans to install covered by well-maintained shrubs. a new sculpture on the The sharp-tongued presenter She said the roundabout just off maintained that Kensington and Gloucester Road were Chelsea were using the new statue damned by ex-presenter of The as an excuse to “not to have to weed £100,000 WeakestT Link and Watchdog, Anne and plant” in the small patch. Robinson. She said she’d rather the money price tag was Robinson, whose infamous were spent on less frivolous ventures, glare made her a TV staple in the such as “my day care in years to noughties, said the £100,000 price come”. too much tag was too much, considering the The local resident’s association UK is enduring “times of austerity”. has been mulling over proposals One Kensington Place. The council Pointing out that the public art was for the centrepiece, submitted by insists on large developments like tucked away on the traffic island, several notable sculptors. Charles this donating money for public which was only really overlooked Hadcock, whose work has been art, with local councillor, Daniel by the Michelin starred Launceston displayed in and around Canary Moylan saying the funds are not Place restaurant, she said, “It’s Wharf, proposed a globe, while public money, and can only be used ludicrous to think that school- Peter Randall-Page, who has work for this purpose. run mums and white van men will in the permanent collection of the Robinson remarked that she stop to admire a sculpture at that British Museum, has proposed a would make a complaint against junction”. lizard-like statue. the plans before the deadline for The roundabout is just beyond the The sculpture would be funded consultation, which was today. Gloucester Arms, and is currently by next door’s £600m new build, Watch this space, literally. What the new statue should look like. Photo Credit: tellymix.co.uk felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4th DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 5
COMMENT [email protected] Problematic yet representative? Anywhere else, there would be wild uproar, but Imperial has a different demographic
n an interview on IC Radio two weeks ago, our union president revealed a number of potentially problematic views. We all say things we later go on to regret; it’s symptomatic of the social I A look through Lucinda’s Twitter reveals some problematic views. Photo Credit: Twitter media age. But, our union president chose to defend her contentious tweets, including one which some about her support for Margaret proposed changes to their funding current position. However, even if Imperial students might find Thatcher, “an inspirational lady (although they were eventually her political views don’t influence offensive. who transformed the face of dropped). union policy they still have to ability In response to a question about British politics,” in a tweet after The sentence “I’d vote for the to alienate parts of the student a tweet where she said “Scots who her death, she stated that “there are Conservatives, and I’ll give a very population. Cale Tilford voted ‘Yes’ shouldn’t be allowed a lot of families who were affected good reason why” isn’t normally Music Editor into England,” the union president negatively by her, my family’s wasn’t followed by empathetic reasoning. Sometimes, suggested that voting to “disband one of them so I think it’s quite hard The union president explained her the entire of Great Britain” was to relate to that.” support for the party by saying: “essentially” #treason. “For my family, if the Conservatives I wish I had Hashtags are often used in weren’t in power, they’d be severely, jest, but by doubling down on a A complete severely screwed over… I feel like I regrettable error of judgement our owed it to them.” To be fair to her, gone to UCL president trivially dismisses the she then went on to describe her serious political desires of a subset lack of opposition to both Jeremy Hunt’s If a sabb at any other university of Scottish students. junior doctors contract and cuts to described Thatcher in the same In case you missed it, the union empathy student bursaries. way there would be wild uproar; president also spoke about her Maybe I’m being harsh. Her however, the views of our elected views on national politics (this was Not only does this show a complete views on politics are obviously president are likely representative of not included in the transcript of lack of empathy, but it gives respect disconnected to her role as union students as a whole, so I’m probably the interview which you will find to a politician who tried to oppress president and the tweets in question wasting my words. Sometimes, I in this week’s FELIX). When asked student unions in the seventies with were made before she started in her wish I had gone to UCL.
Overly opinionated? Think you can you write? Do you love having arguments with your friends? Do you get irrationally angry when someone is just wrong about something? You should write for Comment, then. Drop us an email if you’re interested. th PAGE 6 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 felixonline.co.uk
COMMENT [email protected] INDCs are not a solution to climate change We are all responsible for demanding action on climate change
Joss Knight n Monday, 25,000 can prioritise people before profits, on the part of our government, and talks, taking part in mass civil Writer official delegateseconomic growth will always take their vicious and selective austerity. disobedience through the climate from 150 countries precedence and climate action will Cuts to solar subsidies have cost games, or playing a part in any of descended on Paris not make headway. 2000 jobs and the prospect of viable countless climate change actions for the COP21 Climate Talks. So, do the talks in Paris have any solar energy on the grid for many organised by ordinary people like us OOf all the talks we have seen to relevance to the climate struggle? years to come, and the scrapping of in the months following the talks. date, they are the best organised They do, because they bring climate a home insulation scheme for new international talks, with the most change into the global media houses is a huge blow to sustainable potential. The biggest progress is living as heating will remain our It would that they are focussed around the biggest domestic fuel use by far. climate action targets that countries We need It has been estimated that a be a lie have agreed meet by 2020, called national home insulation scheme Intended Nationally Determined would create 100 thousand jobs. Contributions or INDCs. They a massive Meanwhile we are the only G7 to herald are also set to acknowledge at least country to increase fossil fuel some of the great potential of local international subsidies – a move condemned by and grassroots action on climate the UN. them as a change by emphasising the role What can we do? The thing about of individual cities, like London, people’s climate change is that it is acutely in setting their own targets and time sensitive. As long as we emit solution, actions. greenhouse gases they keep piling It would be a lie, however, to herald movement up in the atmosphere and will even a them as a solution, even a temporary guarantee some degree of climate one, to our climate change woes. spotlight, providing a stage for the cooking even if we halt all emissions The INDCs mentioned will allow real issues to be aired among the immediately. We need a massive temporary for more coherent discussion and lies and lobbying. Globally, climate international people’s movement will hopefully push countries to be marches of well over half a million that doesn’t rely on our economic more ambitious, but taken as they over the weekend highlighted the and political system to change one are, they still steer us on a course for real strength of this. These people things, and we need it now. In fact, at least 3°C of warming. This means provide hope for real action beyond we need to change them. But, time So don’t be disheartened by the catastrophic sea level rise of at the Paris talks, outside of the is short and we must take every failure, on the surface, of the Paris least half a metre by 2100, massive isolated world of politicians and opportunity to force the powers talks to deliver a safe future, instead weather disasters, floods, droughts, corporations. that be to listen now, whether that add your voice and your hand to the and mass homelessness. This will Many marchers in Britain be rallying in huge numbers in every growing number demanding action largely affect those in the global emphasised the link between country on the 12th of December on climate change for our own sake south who haven’t contributed to climate apathy and active hostility, to mark the end of the climate and that of our fellow humans. climate change in the first place. Look a little closer and it’s clear that even this is optimistic. Huge business groups like Business Europe have taken the stance that climate action is directly opposed to economic growth and governments are nodding along with them. Add your voice and your hand
Reluctant to set real regulation, and scared that they’ll lose out on industry, they have promised huge tax funded pay-outs to companies, should they set any. Business Europe are right: economic growth and true sustainability are fundamentally incompatible and until governments Will we drown, waiting for climate change? Photo Credit: DesignPLX/Isaac Cordal felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4th DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 7
SCIENCE [email protected] Whaling in forbidden waters Japan storms into the Southern Ocean disregarding international ban
Tuesday, preying on the Southern Jane Courtnell Ocean. The expedition is due to end Science Editor March 2016. However, this is one expedition of many, planned under project he International Court NEWREP-A, scheduled to last of Justice sought to wave twelve years, until 2026/27. 4000 goodbye to the whaling minke whales will be slaughtered industry, until recent under the program. The IUCN pressures arose from Japan, who red list considers Antarctic minke seekT to continue exploiting the whale populations as ‘data deficient’ ocean’s riches for so called “scientific making it impossible to access research”. Missions to kill 333 minke ecological status. Are populations whales have brewed up a storm threatened? Near extinction? Least in the international community, concern? We don’t know. with Japan encountering fierce The level of endagerment would opposition from countries such as severely affect the justification for Australia and New Zealand. whaling. Hence we are faced with Dragging whales from their ocean; specimens for scientific research? Photo Credit: Wikipedia The Australian Environmental a snag. More scientific research Minister stated that ‘We do not of the Antarctic minke whale supporting scientific research? to prevent such crimes. minke whales presents a high accept in any way, shape or form populations is needed, and killing Sea Shepherds CEO, Captain Whether Japan’s declarations element of risk to a population with the concept of killing whales for mammals for scientific research is Alex Cornelissen suggests that are honest or not, there is a need so many unknowns. It is especially so-called scientific research’. Japan permitted. Japan argues that only Japan’s whale hunt should be for more scientific research of the disturbing when such proposed has been consistent, stating that its lethal methods can be used for regarded as a criminal act, breaching Antarctic’s minke whale populations research is being carried out by whaling activities are vital for the assessments of whale age-at-sexual international law protecting the for a thorough assessment of the a country heavily involved in the progress of science. Four vessels left maturity valuations. However, is Southern Ocean and warns that his species’ ecological health. However, whaling industry. the port of Shimonoseki, Tokyo on this abuse of the loopholes in a law crew and will intervene if necessary, diving in with plans to kill 4000 At the speed of radio The discovery of more mysterious fast radio bursts leave scientists flummoxed
Naomi Stewart both the deep and the near recesses radio bursts’. Carried into our galaxy produce a theory for this bizarre was all the more relevant since Writer of the universe has been collected from billions of light years away, phenomenon of equal distancing a paper was also just released in here for over 50 years. these fast radio bursts only last for between the wavelengths. This Astrophysical Journal Letters In 2007, scientists at the a few thousandths of a second, but lack of explanation has led some identifying a potential source as the e all know that produce as much energy as the sun space-minded citizens to argue for cosmic union of a black hole and space is a vacuum does in a day. extra-terrestrial origins. However, neutron star. and that all those No one has Radio waves range from low to scientists are quick to distance While their source is still Star Wars space high frequency and interact with themselves from these claims, definitively unknown, these fast explosions would never be heard. free electrons as they travel on their pointing out the small sample sizes radio bursts are an exciting new ButW at the same time, the universe managed cosmic voyages. These interactions as skewing the perception of pattern field in astrophysical studies. is still full of waves of energy slow down low frequency radio identification, which may disappear Researchers at the University of sent outwards from their sources, waves, which arrive later than high in larger datasets. British Columbia are building a like infinite ripples through an to produce frequency ones. This is known as the Though it has been estimated that telescope to measure them, called empty pond, eventually landing on dispersion measure and allows us to about 10,000 of these bursts reach CHIME (Canadian Hydrogen Earth’s remote shores. Finding and measure cosmic distances. the earth every day, researchers Intensity Mapping Experience). measuring them all is a painstaking a theory for In the space signals of fast have only found them in their Hoping to gather data from tens of task carried out all over the world radio bursts, there is a mysterious records 15 times, with only one thousands of these events, they plan by scientists and technicians, with mathematical pattern in the ever having been observed live, to use the information to construct many still remaining outside our this bizarre dispersion measure, where the delay on May 14, 2014. Five of these a 3D map of matter in the universe. understanding. between the arrival of low and high events were just discovered recently, With a cloud of mystery still Some of these patient folks are frequency radio waves is almost including a previously unseen twin- surrounding these fast radio bursts, located about five hours inland effect always a multiple of 187.5. An burst. Results were published in we will undoubtedly keep our eyes from Sydney, Australia in the small, initial superficial explanation could the Monthly Notices of the Royal and telescopes scanning the sky to unassuming town of Parkes. With observatory discovered never- be that each recorded burst occurred Astronomical Society last week look for more events, in the hopes not much else going on, it is host to a before-seen highly energetic pulses at exactly the same distance from Scientists on the investigation of understandingthe origins of these 64 meter telescope called the Parkes of radio waves in their archival data Earth, but that is unlikely. were excitedly tweeting the puzzling ripples in our cosmic pond. Observatory. Radio wave data from from 2001, which they called ‘fast No one has managed to discovery of the new events, which felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4th DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 9
SCIENCE [email protected] FELIX does the Kimposium That big bum thing is taking over the world and we should pay close attention
Lef Apostolakis The session raised interesting Science Editor points about the intercontextuality of race and beauty and the complex politics underlying the dynamic. ast week, in a world first, Kimposium ended on a strong an academic conference note with a plenary from Professor on the Kardashians was Paula-Irene Villa, who summed held at Brunel University up the discussions and talked and if I’m honest, it led me into an about feminism, body image and Lexistential crisis. It’s hard looking pornographic liberation. society in the eye, but someone’s got The Kardashians, for better or for to do it. We know it’s not science worse, are one of our time’s ‘hottest’ in the form many at Imperial are cultural products and are invaluable familiar with, but it’s social science, in understanding many current and just as important. social issues and trends. Dismissing Contrary to what many might them as unimportant would be have thought, Kimposium[sic] was short-sighted and an inexcusable not a celebration of the Kardashian omission of this decade’s cultural phenomenon but a discussion of a history and understanding. range of important social issues, Of course I’m not advocating through the prism of one of the consumption of said product. world’s most recognizable families. All hail the mighty Kim! Photo Credit: Eva Rinaldi There are certainly thousands if not The Kardashian family has occupied millions of better things one could the public spotlight for almost a the interaction of the family with its feel, especially twitter, and have had in. During the fifth segment, do with their time, including staring decade now and since 2007, has social context is more complicated a massive impact on our generation Katherine Appleford and Cecilia at a freshly painted white wall, but spawned 5 reality TV spin-offs, than would appear at first glance. as a whole”. Cappel from Kingston University as long as the consumption of the a clothing franchise, countless Intricate relationships of race Similarly positive was the talked about the progression of ‘’Kardashian Bun’’ is as widespread products, a modelling career and politics, body image, social media experience of Hannah Smart, western beauty ideals and their as it is today, the show remains a a disturbing home made video, curation, and brand management a photography student from shift of focus from size to shape. goldmine for social scientists and among other things. have resulted in a show that Nottingham Trent University, doing The Kingston Academics looked at provides a window into modern The effect reality TV has had provides a fascinating glimpse of her dissertation on women in self- the historical and cultural context society and some of its more subtle, on the life and success of the contemporary society. portraits. “It was really good, very of white vs. black beauty and the unnerving aspects. Kardashians might be obvious, but Kimposium aimed to shed light on effect Kim Kardashian’s idolization exactly these intricate relationships has had across the white and black through a healthy discussion, open Session population, with more white women to the public. Brunel invited a striving to get that mega-butt range of speakers from all over the and more black women seeing an country and beyond, not limited to five: increase in eating disorders across academics, but also including artists, their community, possibly as a result fashion and culture writers and of trying to attain the unattainable bloggers. Talks took the audience on Fatness, Kim K shape. a 10-hour journey through the realm Then Gemma Cobb from the of reality TV, its effect on image in University of Essex took over and 21st century society, the broadcasting Thinness talked about anorexia nervosa and of trauma and transitions through the almost eugenic mind frame the prism of twitter, post-feminism, inconspicuously prevalent in not body shape and size, and even and Race only the anorexic subculture (forced genetics. underground due to regulations There was a similarly a wide range different to anything I’ve been to against the promotion of mental of attendees, across all levels of or seen at university. It’s particularly illness), but also society. She looked education and beyond, all of who interesting how different it is and at the fixation of the community seemed to thoroughly enjoy the controversial from the outside with Kendal Jenner (half-sister discussion. Sophie O’Connell, a perspective, maybe from people of Kim Kardashian), with many local 6th form student encouraged who might think this is ridiculous members treating her as a ‘thinspo’ by her sociology teacher to go, or a waste of time. Then you come (thinspirational, possessing a said she was very excited to attend to something like this and realise slim body to aspire to). She the Conference. “We wanted to there’s much more than the TV pointed out the prevalent trend of see ‘Fatness, Thinness and Race’, program or their brand, there’s a lot condemnation of the Kardashian because now that she’s having a baby more depth.” genes, as ‘trashy’ and the danger she’s getting criticised for gaining Personal highlights of the of them contaminating the ‘lovely’ weight, which obviously you do. conference included ‘Session five: Jenner gene pool that must be Caitlyn unware of that impact of them They’ve changed social media and a Fatness, Thinness and Race’ possibly responsible for everything ‘pleasant’ Half Kardashian half Jenner half-sister, Jenner genes. Photo Credit: Duncan lot of girls’ perspective of how they due to the caffeine from the three about Kendal, differentiating her Kendal. Photo Credit: Disney | ABC Rawlinson should look and how they should coffees I drunk had just kicked from her sisters. Television Group th th PAGE 10 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 felixonline.co.uk felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 11
FEATURES [email protected] FEATURES [email protected] So in respect to training, hours and effort, doctors should get paid more. Your union president speaks! IC Radio: Do you support that move by the current Tory Your very own union president, Lucinda Sandon-Allum, was a guest on IC radio a government to remove maintenance grants? while back. Here’s what went down. L: Not at all. I think the problem is that, yes you might be getting the same amount of money technically, C Radio: On a scale of of tolerance, even encouragement, or more, but the student debt thing Abraham Lincoln to Donald of sexist, misogynistic behaviour in comes into account, and actually it Trump, how would you rate Impeiral Sports clubs and can you will put off a lot of people coming to your ability as President? do anything to change that? Last University, if they think that they’ll Lucinda: Probably more towards year, a Sport Imperial employee be in even more debt and I already IAbraham Lincoln. If Trump was 1 at the Varsity spoke on the Rugby can’t afford to come to university. and Lincoln 10, 6.5. Girls saying, “I don’t care how those It’ll put so many people off, and fat girls get home”. Do you agree from disadvantaged backgrounds as IC Radio: So if you were that there is an undercurrent of well, and they’re the people who we president of the world you wouldn’t sexism in sport at Imperial? need. Especially in STEM subjects. be launching nuclear attacks on L: I think there is, but I think the I think that at Imperial, being the everyone? issue comes with group mentality only specialist STEM institution L: Oh, no. and drinking. I think if we’re in the country, it’s already difficult going to use boys as an example to get people in who haven’t come IC Radio: That’s good to hear. within their teams, then I know a from independent schools, because This was a user submitted question: lot of guys who play sport and are The face you pull when you realise you don’t have to get a proper job for a whole extra year. Photo Credit: Imperial College Union what’s your go to meal to cook at very nice people, but the minute I love Great home? you put them together in a group thick skin I think. People are going friends who stopped it as well. If up at some point! I remember one there’s a massive mix of student L: Um, sticky Lime and Ginger mentality and drinking… I think it to hold you accountable for a lot of they heard anything, they’d say “no, of my friends saying “You should views. Chicken. also extends, because they’re quite things, people are going to lay into that isn’t the case”, and I had a huge delete that” and I said “No, I’m Again, I’ll start with Twitter: Britain; I love traditional societies; it extends you about some things that they are contingent of male campaigners, so going to stick by this”. “Tube drivers! You are not entitled IC Radio: This is user submitted from back in the day when sexism not happy with. There is a lot, and that counteracted it really, because I So no, I stick by it. Obviously I’ve to massive salaries. Get over it!” via Great Britain so don’t judge us. If you could keep was ok. Horrible as it sounds, and I FELIX’s invite to the presidential handshake must’ve got lost in the post. Photo Credit: Imperial College London I know people talk about you a lot thought, actually, people might just got a lot of Scottish friends, but the Telegraph. one of music or sex, which would hate saying that, but it was. Now it’s as well. You obviously hope people be saying this because they want to thankfully all of them voted to stay Are junior doctors allowed as England, you keep? being clamped down on, but I think get off the tube, strip off as much as FELIX Editor has got, are only run you have behind those, as they differ try and talk about you in a good vent about something or other. within the Union. I just felt it was massive salaries? Do their salaries L: Sex, sorry Mum. it still extends from that, it’s a group possible, and then get back on the for people that have got careerist a lot. Ask the current sabbs, that’s light, but sometimes it’s not. I know “England, Scotland, who supports qualify as massive given their job? mentality. tube – a drinking game. ambitions, people looking to put the best way to find information. sometimes a lot of people vent their IC Radio: who? Who does this, who does Do you support Jeremy Hunt in his Wales, IC Radio: What’s your go-to The way the president at the something on their CV. Are you a Try really hard to put something anger and say things like, ‘Oh the This is one of my favourite tweets, that?” I want it to be a unity. Anyone bid to cut them? selfie face? IC Radio: Is that an excuse? time, Tom Wheeler, dealt with this careerist? together that’s really unique and sabbs have done this and the sabbs possibly of all time. saying ‘no’, I feel that’s a bit of a two L: I definitely do not support Scotland L: I don’t take selfies. I always L: It’s not an excuse, but it’s was sanctions. But there was a big L: I think everyone at Imperial innovative, as you don’t want to be have done that’, so yes, you do “The Scots who voted yes shouldn’t fingers up to everyone else. I think Jeremy Hunt, at all. I don’t know smile though, I can’t take pictures something that will take a while to backlash from doing that, a lot of is, but that isn’t the reason why I making the same promises as last have to have thick skin, and that’s be allowed into England. You don’t that upset me at a deeper level. I who would! I’m sorry if you do! without smiles. work on. criticism over him doing that. I want ran. I ran because I have been quite year. something I now have got. I didn’t like us, well news flash, we really know that’s very controversial, I In relation to the tube drivers and and Northern to ask you: do you agree with what heavily involved in different areas have a thick skin as such before I don’t like you either #Treason”. Do don’t think anyone knows about the junior doctors, the amount of IC Radio: One horse sized duck, IC Radio: Is there anything you he did, or do you think he deserves of the Union in my time here. I IC Radio: When you ran for ran I think, but now I really do. I’m you still stand by that statement?” that tweet actually. qualifications junior doctors have to Ireland or 100 duck sized horses? can do about it? the criticism he receives and would really enjoy doing this sort of stuff. I Union President, you ran as a not phased by much. L: Partly. I think I wrote that go through, the work that they have L: 100 duck sized horses. I think L: We can. At the beginning of you do anything differently if that wouldn’t have run or put the amount woman running in a STEM subject when I was very angry because I’m, IC Radio: But is it treason to put in, everything that they have independent schools have all the having a load of little ducks running our club officer training we showed happened this year? of effort I did when I was running only university where 69% of the IC Radio: So you expected the as you can probably tell, extremely though? to go through to become a doctor. equipment necessary to teach around would be really cute. inequality videos. There are steps if I wanted it for a career reason. students are men. Did you ever vitriol and the abuse directed at patriotic. I love Great Britain; I love L: Hmm, this is my traditional Obviously that’s the school, further science at a high level. The problem that we can take to try and ensure L: I think he handled it amazingly I could have spent my summers, suffer any sexist abuse? How did you, maybe partly because you are Great Britain as England, Wales, side coming out. I don’t know, I education, higher education, the is that if we’re just going to take away IC Radio: How much work does things are better. well. I think the way that he did instead of doing things for RCSU, that make you feel, what was your a woman as this male dominated Scotland and Northern Ireland. think treason is a very strong word, money you have to spend, especially the money we can give to students Imperial have to do to improve it... obviously as the union we are doing internships, but I didn’t. I response? Do you think you need a university? And if so, did it still hurt, Anything to do with Britain I will but, in a sense, if you’re voting to now with £9000 fees. Everything without them having to pay it back, Gender Equality? The Physics IC Radio: Last year there was there to protect the students from really enjoy helping students out, I tough skin to be a sabb officer? did it still affect you even though love. I think it was more a case that disband the entire of Great Britain that goes into becoming a doctor, people are going to be so daunted by department forwarded an email to a rugby scandal. For those of you everything. We’re there to make know it sounds very clichéd because L: Yes I did [suffer sexist abuse]. you knew it was coming? I felt like: “Why would you vote to essentially. you have to live, breath, eat, and the prospect of coming to university, the year which encouraged students that don’t know, basically there was sure the media don’t get hold of it, the president is saying that, but At first it made me feel really L: Yeah. That’s a hard one because leave the body that is together, that speak medicine, everything! especially London. That’s the issue. to attend a freshers lunch in order a game where the rugby players on the police don’t get hold of anything, I genuinely do. When students terrible, it really, really did, but it did hurt even though I knew is supporting each other?” I just IC Radio: You mentioned you With tube drivers, no they are not People will think, “Oh, I’m going to stake a claim on one in five girls. the way home from training had to that every single student is fine with come up to me and says: “You’ve then I had a lot of people saying, it was coming, so I don’t think can’t get my head around that. I have to represent the views of the entitled to massive salaries! Their to come out with loads of debt that That example was included on a their future lives and all that sort of made quite a big difference with just ignore it, that is what is going anything can prepare you. You can still can’t. I think that was a little bit students, but at the same time you salaries already are huge, for the fact I’ll have to pay off.” People will book about sexism in Universities. thing; that there’s nothing on the this, thank you for your help”, I feel to happen. I spoke to a few female be warned about anything but then harsh, it was very in-the-spur of the have to be apolitical, because you they press a button, and they drive end up doing apprenticeships, and L: It varies. Obviously in the It’s not an record. really good about myself. So I didn’t old sabbs or people who ran for until it happens, you’ll say “Oh moment. I knew this would come have to represent all of them, and a train. I think every job [salary] they’re good as well if you want to sporting world there’s a lot more He dealt with it very well because do it for that reason, I did it because sabb positions before I did, and they gosh, this has actually happened to should be in relation to how much do that, but obviously coming from work to do, for example the events excuse, but it stayed internally. Yes, he might I really wanted to help, but I think said, “as a word of warning, people me, people weren’t lying or trying to effort, how much training has been a University point of view, I feel that at varsity last year as well. In general have got a backlash but it stayed everyone at Imperial looks after aren’t going to judge you on you psych me out.” Yeah, it did hurt, but put into it. I know a lot of people everyone, if they want to, should be terms, not that much, but I think internal and there was nothing that their careers as well. manifesto points, they are going to like I said, I had the most incredible will be like: “What, as if tube drivers able to come to University. I think more respect needs to be shown it’s something went out. I think he dealt with it judge you on how you look and how support and they said, “don’t even can’t become doctors?”, that sort of that would be such a shame if that towards women, especially if you very well in that respect. You have IC Radio: Do you have any you present yourself because you’re think about it, forget it, you’re the thing. I completely appreciate and was not an option for people. step forward and put yourself in that will take to discipline people to make them particular advice for someone that’s female.” So I had that instinctive, one who has put yourself forward, respect that, but there are a lot of the limelight, I’ve experienced that understand that it’s not ok, but they running for a sabb position? you know, this is going to happen you’re the one that wants to do this, people in this university who have The lads from ‘Listen Whilst You myself. a while to didn’t come out of it badly. L: I would say, think carefully to me. So at first I did feel rubbish, you’re the one who wants to change come from extremely disadvantaged Work’ interviewed our President . It depends what sector you look IC Radio: Some people say that about the position you want to run but my friends and campaign team student experience and that sort backgrounds, who have worked You can lissten to Arran and Hasan at, but it definitely is getting there. sabb positions, like the one you’ve for. If you’re deciding between a few, reminded me [that this would of thing, so go for it, don’t think extremely hard and are on their way on IC Radio every Tuesday from 8 IC Radio: Is there an undercurrent work on got, like the one Grace Rahman, the think about the experiences that happen]. You do have to have very about it.” Actually I had a lot of my 44.7% of Scotland voted ‘Yes’. Photo Credit: Twitter to becoming a doctor. to 9pm th th PAGE 12 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 December 2015 felixonline.co.uk felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4 December 2015 PAGE 13
CLUBS & SOCS [email protected] CLUBS & SOCS [email protected] The Neverwhere cast speak Model United Nations hit Oxbridge seem very pleasant, but I couldn’t techniques – things that I certainly beat people up. As one of the stage cheers me up like a rehearsal. I’ve They danced to Drake and formulated policy Daisy Rogers-Simmons feel luckier. Having the chance to have never tried before. A highlight combat tutors said, if he got into a met some lovely people and made Writer perform again has been amazing, was the stage combat workshop. I real fight, at best he could throw a great friends. Nil Bozkurt and in my excitement I devoured have never been part of a fight scene fake punch and confuse the assailant If you haven’t seen the teaser Writer refugee crisis, flight path safety the script as soon as I got a copy – before, and learning how to kick, for long enough to run away. trailer for Neverwhere, check it assessment (after the crash of the etting lost on the way to which did happen to be very late at punch and otherwise attack a fellow Gaiman is known for writing dark, out. It’s downright badass – and Russian airplane in Egypt), and an audition and turning night (or very early in the morning, actor was exhilarating. For those bizarre stories – but all of them, it took a day of makeup, shooting ave you ever wanted to many more contemporary issues. up half an hour late however you want to look at it), and wondering, this doesn’t mean that Neverwhere included, contain a and recording to put together. As listen to an interesting This year ICMUN was able to is never the best way before a 9am. It was worth it. DramSoc members know how to touch of humour. The character’s someone who was a part of it, it was lecture in the antique send its highest ever number of to make a first impression. Even Neil Gaiman’s ‘Neverwhere’ has personalities are therefore brilliant really exciting to get into costume Sheldonian TheatreChairs to lead the debates at the Gfor the loudest, bubbliest, most a variety of outlandish characters, to play with. Whether the laughter for the first time, though it made of Oxford or walk around in a conferences. Our Chairs Enric shameless person, the audition and seeing them brought to life All I can comes from being utterly grotesque, the show seem a lot more real and a Hcrowded, loud Ashmolean Museum Alcoser, Milia Hasbani, Justus process is daunting. When you during rehearsal has been incredibly sarcastic, scathing, or just really, lot closer, which did make me panic holding a champagne glass in your Löbler, Lalit Maganti, Ahmed Raja, factor in poor punctuality, relatively interesting. As someone who has really pathetic, it’s always satisfying a little. It’s been a real challenge to hand? Imagine participating in and Dijana Spasenoska were able little acting experience and the not acted in two years, it’s been say now when the comic timing is right on balance line learning and rehearsal such events whilst discussing and to ensure committees ran smoothly general dazed bewilderment of a refreshing to start over, seeing how point. with starting a degree, and has also proposing new solutions to the for both weekends. Furthermore, we fresher, you can’t expect to get very other people take to characters As for rehearsals, they are some shown me just how little sleep I international issues humanity faces could not be prouder of our ICMUN far. And yet, for some reason it was and how our director (Helen is bring on of the most fun I have had since need if I have coffee. Saying this, I’ve today. This was only a part of what delegation, who persevered in the decided that I was suitable for the Root) interprets them. The dark starting at Imperial. After a stressful loved being a part of ‘Neverwhere’, ICMUN did in the past week. face of headstrong delegates, harsh role of a vile, ruthless, deranged nature of the play has lent itself to series of lectures, or a lab where and all I can say now is bring on These past two weekends,weather conditions, and multiple killer. Out of context, this may not an exploration of different acting show week! nothing seems to go right, nothing show week. ICMUN has participated in two late nights of MUN parties. Such very renowned MUN conferences: determination enabled our very own Oxford International Model two members Ilaria Coppola and United Nations (OxIMUN) and Chris Whitehouse to travel back Cambridge University International home with a Best Delegate Award Model United Nations (CUIMUN). and a Diplomacy Award. Neverwhere crew: what do they do? In case you’re confused, Model Of course, it wasn’t all business. Oscar Tucker a clip from the Backstreet Boys. directly under the stage. era. its own specific roles. For example, United Nations is a forum, within Dining in some of the most Writer Fortunately, the nerves quickly give There’s also costume design The final touch on a costume is Neverwhere has “Beast Creator” which delegates represent a country prestigious colleges of Oxford and The Imperial delegates at Cambridge University International MUN 2015 Photo Credit: Nil Bozkurt way to a sense of megalomania. and creation. We have a small but stage makeup. Lights on stage are and a stop-motion artist in its crew. in the United Nations committee. Cambridge, dancing to Hotline Looking down on a play and skilled group who make costumes famously harsh, so actors all have a DramSoc always needs more help, Delegates work together to address Bling and enjoying exclusive If you are interested in the United 18:00 – 20:00 in Skempton 307. No other industry – or if you’re just t’s obvious when you think having light, sound and people co- from scratch, but complicated or thick layer of foundation, eyeliner so if any of the above sounds like various international issues. Over club nights in both Oxford and Nations and how it works, feel free prior MUN experience is required. looking to develop your soft skills – about it, but still slightly odd: ordinating to your voice can really important costumes are normally and lots of contouring. It’s a great fun, please get involved – email two events, our members were able Cambridge were only some of the to come along to one of our sessions. If you want to be one of the future come by or write to us to find out more than half of people be a thrill. rented from the National Theatre. way to release your inner Kim K. [email protected]. to agree on responses to the Syrian highlights of our trips. These are held on Thursdays from leaders in politics, business or any more about what we do! involved in theatre never Then you have the stage hands. Just visiting their storeroom is Working backstage is stressful, We are still looking for stage make it on stage. A further four This is a great way to get involved an experience – there are literally difficult, but ultimately great fun. hands for Neverwhere or any of the Ipeople are on stage, but exclusively without committing too much time, thousands of costumes, ordered by It’s a weird perk that each play has above roles for shows next term. when the lights are off. In almost and to see if you’d like to do more every play, actors are truly the tip of in future. the iceberg. Most people know very And if you don’t want the pressure Live in very vibrant colour little about backstage work (which of being there when the play is on, Abigail de Bruin In all four years that I’ve been is, perhaps, the point), but after there’s still plenty to do. C&S Editor here, I have never had so much fun working in it things become a little or so little sleep. The talent of every clearer. single person I’ve worked with so far I’m involved with stage We have t’s always a good sign when is truly incredible, and I’m so excited management, the people in black you look back on your week for both of the shows. who move things around on stage. and realise that you definitely Of course, I don’t actually get to Their work kicks off with the a small spent more hours in rehearsals watch the shows when I’m singing, creation of “the book”, which is than on your degree. We’re at dancing, acting or some terrible to the stage manager as the Bible IImperial. My course averages 7 combination of the three. So it’s is to God. It’s a copy of the script, but skilled hours of contact time most days. down to you to come and tell but with absolutely everything you So, that’s not exactly a meaningless me if they’re any good. From my need to know to put on a play: the statement. But, that’s just the world end they’re looking pretty snazzy, timing for lights and sound, where group of theatre. though. They should do, too, because the actors will be, what the stage At the beginning of term, I’m pretty sure some of our directors hands will be doing, and literally Possibly the most labour intensive and having taken a year out, I haven’t been to sleep in a fortnight. everything else. part of production is making the set, was altogether too enthusiastic We’ve bounced from run-throughs The book is then given to the which is ideally done before the play about returning to my studies. to rehearsal, to tech-runs and dress deputy stage manager, who sits starts showing. This is more time I auditioned for pretty much rehearsals, and occasionally to in a perch overlooking the stage. consuming than you would believe, everything going. This meant that Primark and Poundland to pick up They instruct lighting, sound and so DramSoc often finishes about I ended up conning my way into various bits of costume at the last set over radio. At first, this was a half an hour before the curtains the cast for both Musical Theatre’s minute. nerve-racking experience for me. open, but we go with what works. ‘Revue: Live in Living Colour’ and If you have the chance to audition, A wrongly placed cue can really The job normally involves sawing, DramSoc’s ‘Neverwhere’, which do it! Just, maybe don’t audition for disrupt a play. Once, I asked for glueing and nailing, to the point conveniently have their show weeks everything, if you actually want to a phone noise and instead got where DramSoc has a workshop Two very menacing cast members Photo Credit: Cem Hurrell one after the other. pass your degree this year. Musical Theatre Revue cast. Photo Credit: Chads Chadwick Nominations now open! STUDENT ACADEMIC CHOICE AWARDS Nominate someone today to celebrate and reward excellence and innovation amongst Imperial’s academic and professional staff. Get your Autumn term nominations in now!
The Awards
Best Tutoring Best Support Staff Best Teaching for Undergraduates Best Teaching for Postgraduates Best Graduate Teaching Assistant Best Supervision Best Feedback Best Innovation To make your nomination, visit imperialcollegeunion.org/sacas imperialcollegeunion.org/sacas felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4th DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 15
ARTS [email protected] Ben Hur turns pirate-y in nonsensical panto Matthew Jesse action, or rather trotted in on three Writer camels to a nativity scene featuring Mary and the three kings revealing the entire four membered cast! en Hur: a metaplay of Despite each of the three auxillary misfortune, mischief actors often switching characters and… many, many to help with plot development, manekins. Based on the I admired how each of them 1959 film, Ben. the heir to the Hur maintained an identity with each Bestate, is accused of treason against of their characters. This created the emperor. He is taken slave only an undercurrent which helped to be rescued to wreak his revenge. propel the characters through the Having not seen the film the whirlwind storyline. A perplexed parody was a little disjointed old man, a dreamy young woman although you could still appreciate and a vexed Welshman. its subtle humour. That said, it was Initially. I was fairly disenchanted somewhat over shadowed by the as the play completely failed to pass assaultative slapstick dominating the Bechdel test, as most of the every scene. Not to mention an females were pretty darn flakey! irrelevant foray into a lovesick cast However, the homogeneity of these member’s infatuation with the characters only served to create a leading actress. Despite this, it was necessary structural lifeline to the redeemed by occasional, hysterical otherwise chaotic play. bouts of cunning punning. The panto style continued with a With the protagonist giving a dabble into audience participation, A passionate Ben Hur. Photo Credit: Tricycle Theatre somewhat stilted introduction in when the characters jumped out the reccurring pantoesque theme, of character to throw the audience audience members given cue cards. meandered nonsensically around a To wrap up this play provides an before retreating backstage. After into a sinking slave ship. Each part This all ended in a piraty climax. shifty sea captain and a leper colony, unpretentious slapstick affair. It is a a clattering and a hullabaloo of of the auditorium were given certain The second half dithered as the although it did provide an amusing perfect panto preview for those who costume change the play sprang into phrases to shout, with a few chosen rhythm and plot started to slide. We dance routine. just can’t wait for Christmas.
extremely flirtatious, somewhat the intention. Lulu finishes on arrogant and manipulative. Claudia a profoundly unsettling note – a Jolly is slyly intelligent, while Ellen note that doesn’t finish but fades Love and lust in Lulu Gibbon’s is wracked by tragedy. into infinity. Wedekind himself For me, Countess Geschwitz was a man with a prodigious sex (played by Bessie Carter) was life, frequenting prostitutes and the highlight of the show; her eventually contracting syphilis. He performance is heart-breaking. sends vivid messages about the While Rodrigo (Nicholas dangers of narcissism, lust and sex. Richardson) adds a playful element, In fact, it’s so starkly portrayed in and Schigolch (Paul Gorostidi) is Lulu that the programme includes impossible to take your eyes off with a double-page spread on sexual his energetic (perhaps over-acted) compulsivity, including contact performance, Geschwitz suffers. details for Victim Support and She is bullied, but remains loyal, Sexual Compulsives Anonymous. and is one of the few characters who Competent direction by Christian possesses a genuine love rather than Burgess marries well with Johanna lust. Town’s eerie lighting and Erin It’s a complex play that could be Witton’s effective soundscapes. interpreted in many different ways. This is also one of the few plays I’ve Some may see it as horrendously attended that also includes a video misogynistic, while others will designer (Matthew Ferguson) that praise the strength of Lulu’s adds an especially dramatic turn to Lulu at The Silk Street Theatre. Photo Credit: Guildhall School/ Clive Barda individual personality. Generally, one scene. the story is coherent, but I felt If you’re after ‘fun for all the family’, Samuel Lickiss Nicholas Wright’s adaptation of this and the privilege of wealth. that more foreshadowing of future try Elf: The Musical (Dominion Writer controversial nineteenth-century However, through the play’s five events and characters was in order. Theatre). Lulu is hard-hitting and play is challenging. It’s humorous acts, Lulu takes on a darker tone. Lulu lacks a quest – what does she bordering on melodramatic. It is at first, Lulu (though she is known Fluid set changes between acts actually want? What are any of the thought-provoking and leaves you by a variety of names) works her are accompanied by Alex Hall’s characters attempting to achieve? pondering the complexities of the rank Wedekind’s Lulu way through several husbands in haunting score, and a new actress It’s unclear, and an out-of-the-blue human psyche. Guildhall’s final- is a story of seduction German high society and gains playing Lulu. Each actress brings climax left me craving some sense of year actors and musicians are oozing and tragedy. Choosing considerable notoriety. She enjoys with her continuity, but an evolving epilogue or resolution. with talent, and they tackled this Fadjectives to describe her power, the attention she receives personality. Leonie Benesch is There isn’t any, and perhaps that’s brave play with sophistication. th th PAGE 16 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 felixonline.co.uk felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 17
ARTS [email protected] ARTS [email protected] Calder glides and amazes at Tate Modern Pirelli is a poacher turned gamekeeper Joanna Wolstenholme The calendar notorious for its nudes turns its focus to inspirational women in the 2016 edition Writer
attitude towards women and how it On the eing new to London, I displays their bodies? have been trying to work The Pirelli calendar website my way round as many certainly proclaims it does. foundations galleries and exhibitions Somewhat grandiosely it declares as possible. Unfortunately, work has that the calendar has been ‘a journey Bbeen getting in the way somewhat, through the evolution of taste, of these so it was exciting to trundle off to society and the customs of the last the Tate (via being a photo-taking 60 years’ tourist on the Millenium Bridge) Perhaps. The Pirelli calendar small to have a look at one of their is famous for never going on latest exhibitions – a collection of sale, it is instead sent out to an sculptures by Alexander Calder. exclusive and secret list of 20,000 victories As soon as I walked into the ‘VIPs’: musicians, politicians and gallery I knew I was onto a winner. royalty’ according to a company cultural The first room had just three spokesperson. simple hanging wire sculptures, The shift towards showing but I was mesmerised. Like a 3D powerful women, fully clothed shifts are sketch, Calder had deftly captured and presented as peers and equals the features of a woman in a piece rather than women displayed as entitled ‘Medusa’ in just a few objects of desire for the male gaze built twists of wire, which cast wonderful shows a shift in the clientele Pirelli shadows, and was equally interesting is hoping to woo. Amongst the viewer, muscles rippling. The pose from a number of angles. secret list of powerful people, more brings to mind classical statues of In the next, much larger, room, are now likely to be women, women sporting heroes and demi-gods, of more of these simple 3D sketches Alexander Calder, Triple Gong c.1948. Photo Credit: Tate Modern who who would rather an image of Amazonian warrior women. The were on display, this time mainly Fran Lebowitz hung on their walls delineation of light and shade, the inspired by circus figures. Standing the ceiling and gently twisting, and of a painted board backdrop with rooms were full of his iconic organic just to sit and watch. They ought to for a month than Gigi Hadid in a strong profile of her face speaks of pondering the simplicity of the all carefully lit so that their shadows bigger, blocky hanging sculptures mobiles – perfectly balanced get some for Central Library. moulded latex bodysuit (featured in power, of legend. It is a beautiful works I was struck by how they were projected behind them. in front of them, where the shadow hanging sculptures which gently Whilst I very much enjoyed the image but it is fearsome at the same reminded me of drawings produced The interplay between Calder’s from the hanging aspect became twisted and transformed themselves exhibition, at £18 a go (luckily not time, it commands respect. The when you aren’t allowed to take the 3D works and their 2D shadows part of the 2D background. in the ambient breeze. Here again if you are reviewing for FELIX!) In a beauty in Leibovitz’s images are not pencil off the page. Strongmen, was fascinating, and something I am As you might have guessed from the interplay between the sculptures this is certainly a gallery to persuade manufactured male fantasies, but a acrobats, dancers and elephants were sure that both the Tate and Calder my descriptions, the majority of and their shadows was mesmerising, your parents to take you to. The departure very specific beauty to each sitter. all vividly captures in his sculptures, were keen to emphasise. One room the rooms cast light on Calder’s especially as they gently twisted and artworks are wonderful – but the The focus in Amy Schumer’s some of which were hanging from focused on works which consisted less known work, but the final two changed. It was incredibly relaxing price seems extortionate. portrait is on her sardonic expression, from the not on her body, though she is the othe rowman who appears (almost) Serena Williams being awesome. Photo Credit: Annie Liebovitz for Pirelli in the nude - the joke being that she calendar’s is the only one who didn’t get the Indira Mallik been lent artistic credence by the memo. Patti Smith, insouciant in a Arts Editor photographers who have worked on white shirt and black trousers seems TimeSam Wood waits for no comic these are well made and contribute and at times transparent. With These the issues. The distinguished roll call past, the to be lit almost with a halo. Writer to the narrative, although disrupt this said, they can be thoroughly includes Helmut Newton and Steve Above all, the portraits demand the flow a little too much and fail redeemed as they transmit such irst they came for Playboy, McCurry to name a few. that the women be seen as to keep the audience as captivated a positive spirit to the audience, now Pirelli; this is turning portraits 2016 will be Annie Liebovitz’s focus is on individuals before they are seen as stand up comedian’s as they were in the first five minutes. making you want to support every out to be quite a winter of second edition with the company. It subjects. It is tragic that so simple worst nightmare: Often making mockery out of joke they attempt, no matter how discontent for the world’s marks an about turn in the calendar’s brains and a thing is seen as groundshaking, arriving late to your own silly or obtuse. The venue itself, the meninists. Earlier this week, Pirelli, demand usual subject matter. but it is on the foundation of these show. A stage managers Immersive and Invisible Dot, supports this vibe Fthe luxury tyre company that It is accomplishment, not flesh on small victories that cultural shifts worst nightmare: having to run fittingly – its intimacy, informality produces one of the fashion and art the women show (for the most part). Instead of brawn, not take place. theA show and entertain a room full and pub-like atmosphere contribute world’s most exclusive calendars, supermodels, it’s superwomen who Gimmick or not, it is heartening of punters whilst waiting for the entertaining just as much to the experience as caused quite a stir when they are featured. Patti Smith, Yoko Ono, that Pirelli has changed at all. It will act to arrive. This is exactly what anything else. announced the 2016 editon would are seen as Serena Williams and Ava duVernay on bodies be hard for them to go back to the unfolds before us in the original pop culture and modern day norms, Overall, ‘Waiting for Gaddot’ feature women more known for make up a roster of women of stutus quo, a return to bums and meta-comedy ‘Waiting for Gaddot’, the humour used throughout is is original, unusual and amusing their brains and their brawn than different ages, sizes and ethnicities last year’s calendar). boobs next year is guaranteed to be running at the Invisible Dot. fairly amusing. However, the gags throughout. Whilst some elements their bodies. peers, not who are pictured in next year’s So what of the artistic merits of PR suicide. The following 60 minutes is aren’t anywhere near as original as are slightly off and executed poorly, In Pirelli’s 52 year history, their edition. Most are fully clothed. Leibovitz’s offering? Ironically, it Here’s hoping they have begun as an erratic farce that unravels the shows format would initially the well spirited cast never fail to calendars have almost exclusively That this is publicity stunt is the image of Serena Williams, they mean to continue; it would be unashamedly in front of the suggest and they are derivative and keep the audience on edge and most featured scantily clad supermodels, objects of designed to maximise on the current one of two women in the calendar great to see more inclusion in the audience. For the most part, expected most of the time. importantly, laughing. Kate Moss, Christy Turlington in climate of celebrity endorsed social not fully clothed, that is the most future; perhaps 2017 will feature the experience is immersive and It is apparent throughout that the the 90s and Adriana Lima and Lara justice there can be no doubt, visually striking. Laverne Cox as Miss July or Ruth entertaining. The play intersperses cast are mainly stand-up comics, for The Invisible Dot Ltd. in King’s Cross Stone more recently. desire however, does this signal a turning The living tennis legend is Bader Ginsburg as Miss May. A girl Doesn’t he look like a funny, upbeat guy? Photo Credit: Richard Gadd ‘live action’ with flashback videos; their acting is often over-cooked Comedy most nights from £7 The soft core pin-up images have point in the fashion industry’s pictured with her back to the can dream! FRIDAY 18 DECEMBER 2015 20:00 - 03:00 | all union beit bars Friday 18 December 2015 sees Beit Bars transformed into a galaxy far, far away! Celebrate your last day of term in Metric, FiveSixEight & The Union Bar. featuring darth vader dj set | lego soc diorama | sifi soc star wars pub quiz | ic cinema nintendo wii lightsaber battle melee | guitar soc open mic | karaoke | live bands & djs early bird online price only £3.00 £4.00 from Monday 6 december on the door price £5.00
ICSM Light Opera presents “Anything Goes” on 14-17th December. Tickets from £6, details online felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4th DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 23
FILM [email protected] Surrender to Carol’s ravishing beauty Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara burn bright in Todd Haynes’ most beautiful film yet
Carol
Dir: Todd Haynes Script: Phyllis Nagy Starring: Cate Blanchett, Rooney Mara, Sarah Paulson, Kyle Chandler. 118 minutes.
Fred Fyles Film Editor
he verb ‘to ravish’ has two meanings. In one context, we can use it to describe being transported to a place of ecstasy, where our emotions takeT flight, and we are overcome with an inescapable delight, swirling upwards to a higher plane. In another, it describes something far more brutal: to take by force, to seize and carry someone off, kicking and screaming, against their will. In both senses of the word, exploring this freakish dichotomy, Carol is utterly, irresistibly, achingly Cate Blanchett delivers a career-defining performance as Carol Aird, beginning the long march to the Academy Awards. Photo Credit: Weinstein Company ravishing. Based on Patricia Highsmith’s the abandonment takes on a brute of the all-consuming passion love Blanchett’s Carol, although on that she is always ready to retreat – convention-busting 1952 novel physical force, as she violently can bring. the surface more composed, is is completely heart-breaking. The Price of Salt, Carol is at its vomits up her emotions on a The dialogue is poignant, with perhaps even more vulnerable than For Carol, ‘would you?’ becomes core a love story. Therese Belivet highway returning east. every pause and ellipse pregnant the young Therese. Hidden beneath a rallying cry, one that echoes (Rooney Mara) is a young shop- What was radical about the novel with unfulfilled longing. Phyllis the veneer of make-up and furs throughout the film: ‘would you like girl who is unable to reciprocate – and, indeed, remains radical over Nagy’s screenplay brings with it that mark her as a possession of the to have lunch with me?’, ‘would you her boyfriend’s feelings for her, and half a century of progress later – is a soft sense of a beat, offset by the affluent, Carol seems impenetrable: like to come visit me this Sunday?’, has a vague dream of becoming a the possibility of a happy ending visual melody provided by Edward confident in her wants and needs; ‘I was hoping you might want to photographer. Carol Aird (Cate that opens up for the couple. It is Lachman’s cinematography. Carter resolute in her refusal to live against come live with me – but I guess you Blanchett) approaches, following one that is not explicitly stated by Burwell’s score, all swelling strings her own grain. And yet Blanchett’s won’t. Would you?’ Earlier on, in some meaningful eye-contact across director Todd Haynes, who deals and plucked harp, contributes to nuanced performance teases out the the cinema, one of Therese’s friends a crowded shop floor, to ask for in subtle clues rather than dramatic this harmony, although on occasion complexity of the character. Therese tracks the correlation between help buying a Christmas present outbursts: the hand lingering just it does outstay its welcome. Carol is not just a plaything, a passing what the characters on screen are for her daughter Rindy. Making her a little too long on the shoulder; is simply stunning. Sandy Powell’s infatuation; at multiple points saying and how they really feel; first move, Carol leaves her gloves the gaze that is caught and held; sumptuous costume design alone Carol lets her guard down, in a at points like these, where Carol behind on the counter, relying on the meaningful pause. Haynes is conjures up the idea of a mid-century performance that – despite the fact breaks down the barriers she’s so Therese to pick up on the flirtatious clearly in his element with Carol, Manhattan, but Jesse Rosenthal’s carefully constructed, there is a true undertones in their conversations; which – after 2002’s Far From pitch-perfect art direction takes intersection between desire and returning the gloves leads to a lunch, Heaven – cements his place as a key this to new heights. The audience Carol is a action. and then to home visits, and finally interpreter of 20th century America. is transported out of the cinema, Carol is a visually stunning, a trip out west. It is this sojourn that Haynes’ camera almost always and stand blinking, blinded by the emotionally arresting, powerhouse allows Therese to distract herself views Carol and Therese obliquely: midwinter sun, and the possibilities depiction of a film. Shot through with a from her boyfriend Richard ( Jake through doorways, marking off the of love it can bring. sense of tender melancholy that Lacy), Carol to forget about the boundaries of private and public; As Therese, Mara is at a career- – despite the uplifting ending – impending divorce from husband within cars, ensconcing them in best; in her hands, we watch Therese of a love so imbues it with an aching, almost Harge (Kyle Chandler), and the their own bubble of chrome and mature within the course of several nostalgia-like sentiment, Carol is a two lovers to establish their physical upholstery; through windows, months, from a naïve young girl, one depiction of a love so powerful as relationship. Moving around each their faces smudged into blurs by who agrees without knowing what powerful to be combustive. Charring all in its other in a carefully choreographed greasy smears. Trapped within their she wants, to a fully-fledged woman. relentless path, we are consumed in dance of a love that must remain passion, the pair place a buttress Her sexual awakening creates a fire its beautiful fire. It is a lipstick mark hidden, things eventually – as they between themselves and the world, within Therese, one that burns off as to be on the rim of a martini glass. It is inevitably must – come crashing retreating into their own private any soft corners, leaving behind hard the old photograph that has become down: Carol returns to New domain – a necessary technique for edges; her warm dimples traded too painful to clutch on to. It is the York to fight for custody of her coping with the social pressures of for an angular jawline; hairbands combustive greatest love story in recent memory. daughter, and Therese’s anguish at the day, but also a perfect portrayal exchanged for high heels. It is simply ravishing. th th PAGE 24 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 felixonline.co.uk felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 25
[email protected] [email protected]
FILMBlack Mass RadiatorFILM The Good Dinosaur tops with the precision of an army further than to say that even the The top three major. Their house needs to be set in brave are afraid. That is not to say order, but Daniel isn’t up to the task. The Good that genuine sentimentality did not westerns Instead the amount of clutter in the feature; it did, but just not when Dir: Scott Cooper. Script: Mark Dir: Tom Fisher Script: Tom Fisher, house slowly grows, infiltrating on Dir: Peter Sohn. Script: Meg they were trying to force it upon that aren’t Mallouk, Jez Butterworth. Daniel Cerqueira Starring: Richard the edges of everyone’s lives like a Dinosaur LeFauve. Starring: Raymond you. The addition of a some strange Starring: Johnny Depp, Benedict Johnson, Gemma Jones, Daniel malignancy. Ochoa, Jack Bright, Frances choices in the story, not least the Cumberbatch, Dakota Johnson, Joel Cerqueira 93 minutes. While Leonard’s prickly nature McDormand 100 minutes. small drug-trip scene that featured The Good, the Edgerton. 122 minutes. makes it difficult to warm to him, has a thin (yes, you read that correctly), made adiator begins with an Johnson’s effective performance espite an original spin for, on the whole, a slightly jarring Bad, and the Ugly here’s an episode of everyday nightmare: brings to us a sense of how helpless on the classic ‘Boy & experience. David Mitchell’s brilliant middle-aged Daniel Leonard feels, having to get his plot with an His Beast’ trope – in It wasn’t all mediocre though: the hen we think of YouTube series Soapbox (Daniel Cerqueira) wife and child to clean him up after this case, the dinosaur is CGI landscape was more detailed Westerns we think in which he talks about receives a phone call from his using the commode. However, the the boy, and the human the beast – and gorgeously rendered than any of Clint Eastwood. the problem with gangster movies: Relderly mother, Maria (Gemma beating heart of the film is with unsubtle DPixar’s latest, The Good Dinosaur, felt animated film I have seen before The final instalment oneT great film about gangsters gets Jones), asking him to come up Maria, whose internal suffering is rather childish. And yes, I know it (and I have seen a lot). With the in Sergio Leone’s ‘Dollars’ trilogy, made in the seventies, he argues, and to their Cumbrian home for a portrayed with extreme pathos by is a children’s film, but that doesn’t entire film set in the open, there are TheW Good, the Bad, and the Ugly suddenly everyone thinks they can couple of days, since his ailing Jones in a masterful performance. message mean it has to be childish. The plenty of immensely beautiful shots is considered his quintessential make three hour long dirges filled father Leonard (Richard Johnson) With a coping mechanism that fair amount of violence on screen, that I could’ve stared at for ages. The performance. The very definition of with smoky wood-finished rooms, cannot move from the sofa. Once doesn’t extend past pottering around that is reinforced by the fact that however, leads to a confusion as to reason this is so important is because iconic, it essentially defines an entire hilariously thick swear-riddled he arrives at the house, however, it and making tea, Maria’s internal director Tom Fisher has mined deep whom the film was truly aimed at. nature has an extremely large role to genre. but, at almost three hours it’s accents, and overly masculine is clear that things definitely aren’t turmoil is reflected in the dramatic within the seams of his family life. The story follows a young, fearful play – the true antagonist of the film hardly a welcoming introduction for geriatric men droning on and on right. His father has stubbornly Cumbrian landscape, which plays a The plot of the film came from his dinosaur named Arlo (Raymond is not a dinosaur, but all of nature. new fans. Perhaps the following will about who’s next to get whacked. bunkered down, and is exercising role in this film similar to that of the own experiences with his aging, frail Ochoa) who gets lost far away from The daunting presence of the prove an easier ride: He blames The Godfather. It feels his tyrannical dominion over Maria; Norfolk Broads in 45 Years – another parents, and Radiator was shot in home, and must make his way back highly realistic storm clouds and almost unfair to compare any film here is a man who, possibly in the carefully constructed film about his own parent’s house in Cumbria, on a perilous – if not somewhat crashing rivers contrasts with the The Magnificent Seven to The Godfather, except perhaps The Johnny Depp as Jamie Bulger in the Boston crime drama Black Mass. Photo Credit: Allstar early stages of dementia, is frustrated aging and intimacy. In a world that left untouched since their deaths. disjointed – journey. During this cartoonish look of Arlo, making (1960) Godfather Part II, but watching the at his reliance on others, and acts seems skewed against aging actors, With shades of Andrew Haigh’s 45 trek home, he ends up befriending him seem even weaker than he was A re-working of Kurosawa’s Seven Boston-set crime drama Black Mass, a strong emotional pull; it’s not Unbranded but adoption rates have dropped out in the only way he knows how it is extremely heartening to see Years and Michael Haneke’s Amour, a ‘critter’, who is actually a primitive before. Samurai, The Magnificent Seven tells it’s easy to see what he was on about. corruption or bribery that keeps dramatically, and now numerous – psychologically taking charge of that films are being made that take Radiator is a subtle work, held up human boy ( Jack Bright). With enough humour, warm- the tale of a gang of heroes coming Based on ‘true events’, Black the agent from spilling the beans, horses are kept in cages rather than those around him. His cantankerous an unflinching look at the nature of by powerful performances from the A thin plot with an underlying heartedness, and spectacular together to protect a poor village Mass recounts the story of Whitey but a deep friendship forged on the roaming free. Activists campaign nature knows no bounds: in one aging, and the effects it can have on minute cast. The impression it leaves message that is neither original scenery, The Good Dinosaur is still an from thugs. Here, however, the Bulger ( Johnny Depp), South streets of Southy, and his willingness Dir: Phillip Baribeau. Starring: against the BML, accusing them of scene he complains to Maria that the individual. may be small, but it is certainly nor subtly put, on the whole the enjoyable film, but unfortunately for bandits are met by gunslingers rather Boston’s most notorious (and that’s to fight for his blood brother even Jonny Fitzsimons, Thomas Glover, horse-genocide with a fervour that she has bought the straws ‘with That the film was Johnson’s last lasting. story has little direction. Focusing Pixar it is nothing more than that. than Rōnin. Characters are key in saying quite a lot) mobster, and in the most desperate of times is Ben Thamer. 106 minutes. could only be found in the USA. the corrugated neck’, while in the performance (he died earlier this on the fear of the unnoticed child this film and the flawlessly cast set his rise to kingpin status with the something not many films like this It is an interesting topic, one that next he is seen snipping off their year) adds a sense of poignancy, one FRED FYLES in a family, the film goes little ALEX HEIB of heroes does not disappoint, with collaboration of FBI agent John have touched upon as well as this warm-hearted, generous could probably be explored in a Steve McQueen, Yul Brynner, and Connolly ( Joel Edgerton). But one does. film, Unbranded charts greater amount of detail, although Charles Bronson all giving stand while the story itself may be true, so What baffles me about gangster the journey of four the film gets us up to scratch. I am out performances. many similar things have been done movies is how they unfailingly draw young Texan men as they sceptical, however, about the effect so many times before – fictional or excellent performances from their travel from Mexico to Canada with the film will have, since the issue Serenity (2005) otherwise – that the subject matter cast. Black Mass is no exception: a pack of wild, ‘adopted’ mustangs. doesn’t really translate to our small Documentary corner: Jesus Camp A Ben Collier How boring would the Western begins to feel stale within minutes Depp’s performance as Bulger has Immediately we are introduced isle. Furthermore, I don’t know how particular serves as a perfect film give Jesus Camp an interesting genre be if it was refined to of the multiple-perspective frame been rightfully hailed as a searing to the high-stakes game they are much it will encourage people in the Film Writer microcosm of political debates dichotomy – one minute we see the grizzled middle-aged men in 1800s narration’s rambling beginnings. return to form, and he hasn’t been playing as, during the opening USA: training a mustang takes four occurring within America. children exploring caves and playing America? The idea of a ‘space The brooding Mafioso sinking into this commanding in a role since minutes, one is kicked hard in the months of hard work, and – as the s there anyone in here who It is this that allows the film to in the woods, while the next they western’ makes perfect sense in light the cesspool of his own evil, the the first Pirates of the Carribbean; shoulder, and another desperately film shows – human intervention believes that God can do go beyond the camp and explore cry, pretend to speak in tongues, and of this film. Serenity picks up where corrupt police force, the endless Joel Edgerton as well is on fine tries to control his bucking bronco. is perhaps not what is best for the anything?” the energised the wider issues of right wing smash cups labelled ‘Government’. the infamously-cancelled television string of murders – certainly almost form, flexing his acting muscles Despite the vast vistas on display, horses. Two are struck lame by the Pentecostal preacher Becky politics and literalist Christianity in What we are left with is the show Firefly left off. Malcolm all of this has been done before, and with a wide range of fully believable during a journey that takes in Idaho, end of the first state, and one dies Fischer questions her baying crowd America. One scene that particularly question of whether these children Reynolds and his renegade crew done much better. emotions. Even ensemble turns are Utah, Arizona, Montana, and before they reach the end. Ias the camera cuts to a mother raising stands out involves a cardboard cut are being brainwashed, and how return for one last adventure as they Thankfully Black Mass manages fantastic: Peter Sarsgaard’s crazed, Wyoming, Unbranded manages to But the emphasis of the film is her two uninterested children’s of George W. Bush featured in one much of a threat these groups pose evade the might of a military regime to set itself apart from the pack cocaine-addicted rat and Corey – like Tommy Lee Jones’ excellent on the companionship of the four hands excitedly. The opening scene sermon, where Bush is deistically to American society. Ewing and and men gone mad at the edge of somewhat with a few flash touches Stoll’s FBI bulldog hell-bent on 2014 anti-western The Homesman young men, and the dangers of their of Jesus Camp places the viewer praised by the preachers for his pro- Grady leave that up to you to decide. space. of its own. The functional but by- ending Bulger’s reign have precious – make the classic American difficult journey, and if we see the right in the middle of one of the life ideals and commitment to God. the-numbers script is made up few minutes of screen time each, but wilderness seem isolatedly bleak, film as a document of that, rather services at a Christian children’s The dangers of religion in American Unforgiven (1992) for by the subtly excellent editing: both of them steal every second of dangerous, and utterly unforgiving. than a campaign flick, it works rather summer camp in North Dakota. ‘I pledge allegiance to the Christian flag’. Photo Credit: Jesus Camp PR politics is explored in detail with The film Told you I couldn’t ignore during most conversations, cuts it. Exploring an ideological battle well. There are elements that seem As the scene continues, fast editing the nomination of Samuel Alito – a Eastwood. Here, he presents a gritty between shots of the faces of each While Black Mass has enough I had no idea existed, Unbranded excessively cheesy at times – some and a haunting score crescendo A massively hands-off approach is holds on her, and subtle critiques heavily conservative Christian, and and realistic take on an established person involved come thick and to make it more worth watching was made to raise awareness about arguments between the men seem to a pandemonium. Parents yell taken by directors Heidi Ewing and and digs like this are sprinkled friend of Bush – to the Supreme explores the formula that gives us equal measures fast. With the stone-cold faces but than most crime flick affairs, it the plight of the wild horse in to be engineered for the camera – encouragement as the children and Rachel Grady, with no voice-overs throughout the film. The actual Court acting as a key example. of character development and frantically searching eyes of the unfortunately doesn’t quite have the USA: in the 1970s an act was and some aspects make the entire viewer alike are treated to the first of or opinions being directly offered opinions of the filmmakers seem A simple, objective glance into thrills. Morgan Freeman and Gene performers, these quick cuts create enough to make it much more than passed allowing mustangs to graze thing seem like an advertisement many frenzied sermons which come by the pair. This approach works to be reflected in a few small clips this camp is really all the filmmakers wider issues Hackman join Eastwood on this a powerful sense of the constant entertaining in passing; it’s all just on public land, but this has led to for Jim Bean bourbon. Despite this, to be the focus of this film. so well because the ridiculousness of radio host Mike Papantonio, needed to provide to ensure a solid tale of revenge, as antihero William anxiety and paranoia that comes a bit normal. Once you’ve seen one a ballooning of number, making however, the film’s entertaining This introductory five minutes of this church and its inside goings who talks of the influence of these documentary. The reason why Munney takes on one last job. The with living on the edges of the gangster movie, it would appear it difficult for any other livestock, premise, earnest motivations, and alone set the tone perfectly. Telling on are so obvious that comment religious groups and their scary Jesus Camp should be considered of right wing ending scene features some of the law, and the thought that capture you’ve seen them all, and – sad as and indeed the horses themselves, refusal to sugarcoat the dangers of the story of this camp and its is unnecessary. “We got too many right-wing affiliations. Some would amongst some of the modern greats most quotable lines and blood- is always hiding right behind the the fact is – not every movie can be to survive. The Bureau of Land nature, make it a very worthwhile leaders, Jesus Camp attempts to Christian grown-ups who are call his sections slightly forced but I is the wider comments it makes: the pumping action ever put to film. nearest bush. The Godfather. Management (BLM) is responsible watch. make broader statements about fat and lazy,” our morbidly obese disagree; the dialogue he eventually right wing political and religious US politics The relationship between Bulger for keeping these numbers down fundamentalism in America. preacher exclaims as the camera is able to have with Fischer in undertones to the camp and the BEN COLLIER and Connolly gives the movie TOM STEPHENS by keeping horses in captivity, FRED FYLES th th PAGE 26 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 felixonline.co.uk felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 27
FILM [email protected] FILM [email protected] Radha and Sita Just gals being pals: a history of lesbian films in Fire (1996) Thelma and The first part of Indo-Canadian director Deepa Mehta’s legendary Louise is the Following the release of Carol, Todd Haynes’ latest masterwork, we look back Elements trilogy, Fire tells of the relationship that develops between through cinema’s greatest sapphic power couples, from Mädchen in Uniform to Blue newly-married Sita (Nandita Das) classic gal- and her older sister-in-law Radha is the Warmest Colour (Shabana Azmi). Both women are isolated, cut off from any passion by pal film their neglectful husbands, and find solace in each other. The unflinching depiction of homosexuality seen outgoing, but full of ennui, and in the film sparked protests across unsatisfied with life. The two come India, leading to debates about together after Agnes’ 16th birthday freedom of speech, the role of party, a horrifically embarrassing religion in society, and the social experience for shy Agnes; they Gal-pals par excellence, Thelma and Louise, taking a primitive selfie. Photo Credit: Youtube fabric of the country. If nothing believe the key to living a good life else, that would be the mark of would be leaving their small town of this film is completely batshit crazy. controversy due to its explicit nature, a groundbreaking film, but Fire Åmål and making it to Stockholm A brunette woman escapes from a Nic and Jules in and lengthy sex scenes. However, goes beyond this, with nuanced – the town of Åmål took offence car crash, making her way to safety look past such aspects, and you will performances from the central cast to this portrayal, and in English in a house in LA; suffering from The Kids are All find that Blue is the Warmest Colour making Radha and Sita a couple the film is called Show Me Love. A amnesia she takes on the name of is a film shot through with pathos, burning with desire. tender portrayal of the turbulence of Rita, and surprises Betty, whose aunt Right (2010) intimacy, and humanity. Following teenage sexuality, Fucking Åmål is a owns the house. As Betty tries to the couple over a number of years, must-watch. help Rita remember what happened Nominated for the Best Picture from the development of the Agnes and Elin to her, the bonds between the two Academy Award in 2010, Lisa relationship, to them living together, women strengthens, leading to Cholodenko’s The Kids are All Right and its eventual implosion, Blue is in Fucking Åmål Betty and Rita consummation of the relationship, is unusual in some ways, in that it the Warmest Colour is one of the most and a visit to the mysterious Club shows a lesbian couple who have impressive love stories to be put to (1998) in Mulholland Silencio. Way more stuff happens, been together for years, rather than film in recent years, thanks largely and I would need to see it at least depicting the start of a relationship. to the incredible performances from The directorial breakthrough of Drive (2001) seven more times to properly Jules ( Julianne Moore) and Nic Exarchopoulos and Seydoux. Swedish director Lukas Moodysson, understand what’s going on. All (Annette Bening) are married with Fucking Åmål follows two teenage I mean, does anyone really I know is that the film is visually two children, living in LA. But Evelyn and girls living in backwater Sweden understand what this film is about? arresting, poignantly scripted, and when their children track down who develop a relationship. Agnes Widely considered the masterwork boasts career-best performances their sperm donor father, Paul Cynthia in (Rebecka Liljeberg) is a depressed of American auteur David Lynch from Naomi Watts and Laura (Mark Ruffalo), strains are put loner, with few true friends; Elin – commonly regarded as one of the Harring. on their relationship, and hidden The Duke of Adèle Exarchopoulos and Léa Seydoux as Adéle and Emma, the two gal-pals at the heart of Abdellatif Kechiche’s epid romance Blue is the Warmest Colour. Photo Credit: Youtube (Alexandra Dahlström) is more greatest directors working today – tensions begin to emerge. With excellent performances from the Burgundy by the Nazi regime due to its off the screen), she hysterically two enter into a steamy relationship. whole cast, The Kids are All Right is Manuela and ‘decadent’ content, many of the outpours all her emotions. ‘I feel so The ending leaves things open for a warm, witty gem of a drama film. (2014) stars – who were Jewish – did not The damned sick and dirty I can’t stand a bright future, although it’s not And if that’s not enough to tempt Fräulein von manage to escape the death camps. it anymore,’ she cries, before – in explicitly stated. you, there’s a scene where Nic sings It’s rare to find a film that true ‘Lesbians-Can’t-Have-Nice- Joni Mitchell’s ‘All I Want’ – what combines lesbian relationships, Bernburg in Weimar film Things’ style – hanging herself in more could you need in a film? BDSM, and research into moths, Martha and her room. Thelma and but Peter Strickland’s third feature Mädchen in film The Duke of Burgundy manages Karen in The Mädchen Louise in Emma and to do just that. Following on from Uniform (1931) Cay and Vivian his masterful Berbarian Sound Children’s Hour Thelma and Adèle in Blue Studio (2012), based on Italian One of the first lesbian films in Uniform in Desert Hearts giallo films, Strickland took his to be produced, the Weimar film (1961) Louise (1991) is the Warmest cues from 1970s eurotrash erotica Mädchen in Uniform has set up (1985) for this exploration of relationships. many of the classic tropes of lesbian Shirley MacLaine and Audrey establishes The classic gal-pal film, Thelma Colour (2013) Sidse Babett Knudsen (of Borgen cinema: schoolgirls infatuated with Hepburn play two friends who One of the first films where a and Louise has become a buzzword fame) plays Cynthia, the older, more older women; teasing flirtation open a private all-girls school. lesbian relationship was depicted for female empowerment, and the Bursting onto our screens in 2013, dominant one of the relationship, spilling over into something more; After one girl is punished, she many of the favourably, Desert Hearts follows lasting bond that is created between Blue is the Warmest Colour, Abdellatif while Chiara D’Anna is Evelyn, unhappy endings. Based in a starts a malicious rumour that the journey of Vivian Bell (Helen two women when one of them Kechiche’s 5th film, made history the young ingénue. However, girls’ boarding school, Mädchen in the two headmistresses are in a Shaver), a professor approaching kills a rapist. Geena Davis and when lead actors Léa Seydoux and things aren’t as they seem, and the Uniform tells the story of Manuela, secret relationship – a shocking classic trops middle age, who travels to Nevada Susan Sarandon are Thelma and Adèle Exarchopoulos were awarded film undermines the traditional a young girl whose mother has died, revelation in the 1960s. Although in order to obtain a quickie divorce Louise, two old friends on the run the Palme d’Or along with Kechiche narrative, and takes things into and has been placed into the strict their relationship is never actually from her husband. While staying from the long arm of the law. An at the 66th Cannes Film Festival, more philosophical territory. With school. She immediately becomes consummated, MacLaine’s Martha of lesbian at a ranch, she is surprised by her overwhelming success when it was for their performances as Emma sumptuous visuals, brilliant acting, infatuated with a kindly teacher, does express feelings for Hepburn’s feelings for free-spirit Cay Rivvers released, Thelma and Louise has gone and Adèle respectively. Based on and a cracking score from Cat’s Fräulein von Bernburg, who returns Karen; in a masterful turn from (Patricia Charbonneau); these down in history as a cult classic of the graphic novel by Julie Maroh, Eyes, this is a must-watch. her affections immediately. Banned MacLaine (who acts Hepburn cinema feelings are reciprocated, and the American cinema, and rightly so. Shirley MacLaine and Audrey Hepburn in The Children’s Hour – gals can’t always be pals! Photo Credit: Everett Collection the film garnered widespread FRED FYLES th PAGE 28 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 felixonline.co.uk
FOOD [email protected] Tradition vs Taste? FELIX explores chicken tikka, changing tastes, and asks if anyone should care about whether food is ‘authentic’ or not?
Sanjay Bhattacharya lemon, oregano and olives, we Food Editor had a very different interpretation at a restaurant in Athens. Finely shredded phyllo pastry enrobed a orn in the US, to mixed stick of feta, the whole ensemble British/Indian parents, then fried till crunchy yet soft in and having spent the the middle. Alongside it were the whole of my recallable rest of the ingredients, finely diced life in Oxford at predominantly (not pureed) and left to marinade BEnglish schools, I don’t consider – but for just long enough to still myself to be Indian, apart from the retain each components’ original times when I’m reminded of it, and flavours, so that you could dip one that’s normally to do with food. in the other and have the whole “Where’s the best curry house in blossom of flavours at once. I loved London?” some friends ask, and I’ll it, but my father, who had expected try to explain that I really haven’t something a bit more traditional been to that many, before telling (read: not enough cheese), was left them about the few joints I do know disappointed. Needless to say, we that are good. “What makes a curry didn’t return. a curry?” is another favourite along That has never discouraged me with having to shut down folks from presenting traditional dishes who go and say, “oh, chicken tikka to which I’ve added my own ideas to masala – you should know – that’s my family. In fact, I enjoy surprising not really an authentic curry, is it?”. my entire family with the occasional They both get my hackles up. Who dish that really is a change from the cares if my grandmother wouldn’t staple recipes that I do use from recognise it? If it’s tasty, it’s a good time to time. This is easier for me Who would have guessed curries aren’t served like this in India? Photo Credit: Oriental Chinese Takeaway recipe and that’s all that matters. to do with gastronomies I have If we didn’t have people who were read, practiced and experienced. For favourites, such as Beggar’s Noodles And yes, they weren’t wrong – it’s pushing boundaries, we wouldn’t example, I’m happy to improvise and Wonton Soup. I have no idea if quite an art of basting and flipping, come up with new combinations an Italian twist on things, and so I’m using the ingredients correctly I have no and the end result does have more and recipes. It’s the only way that when I make a Ragu Bolognese for some of the things we do blithely of a grey band – but you get a cuisine can advance, and that’s what (spag bol to you heathens), I’ll get from the Chinese supermarkets, delicious fond (that browning on I enjoy being part of. add soy and Worcester sauces, a but the end result tastes good and is idea if I’m a pan from frying meat?) that can At this point, I do have to say touch of smoked paprika and some fun along the way. form the basis of an amazing pan that there are a few people in my mushroom ketchup – all of which I mean, don’t get me wrong – as using the sauce, something that my reverse family who won’t necessarily agree boost the meaty depth of the dish. a family of scientists we naturally searing method – with its digital – my father vs modern Greek None of them notice the additions put a lot of research into the recipes thermometers and, potentially, high salad was a notable battle. Instead until I tell them at the very end, at (ok, maybe we’re just obsessive), and ingredients tech water baths, does not. And to of a slab of briney feta atop some which point they don’t mind, and have come up with patiently refined them, I didn’t have an answer. Was coarsely cut onions, cucumber have been converted. Now, that’s results that we happily offer up to tradition being usurped by a more and beefsteak tomatos, liberally not quite the same as doing a tofu people, even if it is our version of correctly convenient method, where there was soused with tart red wine vinegar, jalfrezi or suchlike, but it’s still their national dish. Why? Because a comparatively low skill barrier? changing their way of thinking. it tastes good! At least, it suits our languages, is too at risk of being How could I say that I wasn’t taking Really, this clash of tradition vs palates…but that’s a complete forgotten. If there aren’t people the same convenient route as those If it’s tasty, reinterpretation only ever comes to article in itself. Is it traditional? I appreciating old recipes (and yes, who buy ready meals, as all they’re affect my own cooking in certain honestly couldn’t say. adding their own twists to them as looking for is a hassle free meal? areas – cuisines that I’m not too But, tradition itself is important. well!), those techniques and flavours At the end of the day, I strongly it’s a good well versed in – where I feel that my As people shy away from cooking, will die out! So, at times, I’ll pull believe food should be about taste attempts to create a dish inspired a phenomenon that is fortunately up my dad’s recipe database (I said first, and tradition second – but by them may completely misuse slowing, and choose the convenient we were weird) and look up those I know not everyone agrees with recipe an ingredient or idea. This mainly route of ready made food – be it with recipes that he’s faithfully copied out me, nor should they. And so whilst covers those outside of America/ ready meals that present (for the from his grandmothers notes, and I won’t be the first to serve up Europe, the Middle East and the most part) bland, drab versions of that both he and my mother cooked Christmas pudding with a hint of and that’s Subcontinent. I’ll have a stab at once exciting classics, the memories for me over many years, and I now chilli to my gran, or serve my dad South American – but salmon of traditional foods can too fade. get to teach to my girlfriend. And that bloody Greek salad, I will for ceviche is not the authentic All to often, the little intricacies of I remember exactly why, sometimes, happily enjoy a nibble of chicken all that kind of fish to use (though given dishes are left by the wayside, and so you don’t need to change anything. tikka if it comes my way. that every country appears to use slowly people forget just how that That said, I had some other family matters a different one, who knows?) and particular soup tasted, that pasta remind me that you can cook a Are you interested in writing for the plod blindly into the Orient – with felt or those spices blended. I guess steak perfectly well in a pan, after I Food section? Send any articles, recipes, dishes faithfully born from family this culinary history, like so many wrote my previous article on meat. ideas or requests to [email protected] felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4th DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 29
MUSIC [email protected] Chvrches fill the Palace with synth-pop Simon Andersson Writer The low
he 2014 synthpop point of sensation Chvrches held the biggest headline gig of their career at a the night slightly below capacity Alexandra PalaceT on Friday last week. I bought came when my tickets from another Imperial student, but there were plenty flying around online in the preceding weeks for less than retail. Doherty The Glaswegian band is currently touring their second album, Every tried his Open Eye, which was released in January this year and they were supported by DJ and producer Four hand at Tet, a weird, genre-crossing decision which I still require an explanation for. singing I feared that the band’s sound Photo Credit: Cale Tilford wouldn’t suit the size – 10,000 at Doherty. full capacity – of the venue, but Lauren Mayberry, the lead vocalist, honestly who can blame her. When singing, on the album track ‘High A fake encore - as is the norm I was happy to be proved wrong was confident and commanding not singing she was given the task of Enough to Carry You Over’ which - then a slow song followed by a immediately, with new tracks such throughout; she provided rambling beating a drum set placed at centre the crowd showed little appreciation rousing rendition of ‘Mother we as ‘Never Ending Circles’ blasted at banter with her band-mates and the stage and dancing around playfully. for. This was fortunately quickly Share’ left every attendee satisfied full volume, with loud bass provided audience at will. You couldn’t help The low point of the night came forgotten when Mayberry took the that they got what they paid for, by Iain Cook and synths by Martin but feel she had it all planned, but when Doherty tried his hand at microphone back for the next song. myself included.
The Demo Dump The bass hurt my face Simon Andersson will return Writer next week ero played at the O2 (we promise)! Brixton Academy on Saturday as part of the UK tour of their new album Between II Worlds. The Nadverts had been plastered across the capital for several weeks leading The bass was ridiculous Send your Buttery biscuit, face-melting bass. Photo Credit: The Jim Jam Jar
demos to up to the event, but the venue was shaken, and my friend complained the entire hour and a half set aside mixing was done, despite the classic still barely half packed by the time that his eardrum physically hurt. It’s from the last line, where she wished knob twiddling and keyboard music.felix@ midnight rolled around and Nero safe to say they wanted the music to London good night. At one point mashing all night, by both Daniel took to the stage. be felt. her oversized belt fell off - so that Stephens and Joseph Ray. The light imperial.ac.uk The bass was ridiculous. And not The three piece’s lead singer at least was mildly interesting. show however, was intense, with red necessarily in a good way. Both my Alana Watson, was not particularly The music played was predictable and white strobing the name of the chest and throat were intensely memorable, as she seemingly mimed and I very much doubt any live game. th th PAGE 30 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 felixonline.co.uk felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 31
MUSIC [email protected] MUSIC [email protected] your spouse again. People try to act like the fans are “Soon as they like you, make ‘em dumb.” unlike you.” From crashing ballet and hip-hop A great deal of effort has gone together in ‘Runaway’ to taking Leave Kanye alone into making ‘Bound 2’ unlikeable inspiration from the Alejandro A deeper look at one of the most influential artist of the millennium and it worked: it’s the 8th most Jodorowsky directed arthouse film disliked video on YouTube, ever. ‘The Holy Mountain’ for the Yeezus When the original (much shittier) tour, Kanye’s been bringing fine art Aslan Sayfimehr dark as possible, while the opposite ‘Hooked On a Feeling’ video has a to pop culture in an progressively Writer stands for Kim: contrasting their 10 to 1 like-to-dislike ratio with a more mature manner. October saw skin tones, highlighting their super- fifth of the views of ‘Bound 2,’ you the first release of his collaboration publicized interracial relationship. can’t help but wonder whether the with Pulitzer Prize winning am a pop artist. My medium is The video was debuted on the Ellen racial overtones played a hand in its composer Caroline Shaw. The public opinion, and the world DeGeneres Show: a talk show infamy. rework of ‘Say You Will’ employs is my canvas.” most successful in the middle-aged It’s clear that Kanye doesn’t her voice as a string instrument: As the most despised figure white female demographic. Hardly mind exposing himself to ridicule. puckering pizzicato vocals flutter of today’s pop culture pantheon, Kanye’s target audience… So why He became the first mainstream around Kanye’s autotuned laments Iyou’d think Mr. Michelangelo- all the theatrics? artist in a hyper-masculine genre before swelling in a jaw-droppingly with-a-mic would know how to use Kanye West has brilliantly to expose himself emotionally, serene crescendo. It’s pretty damn his medium better. reversed ‘Hooked On A Feeling,’ mourning the demise of both his good. But what if we take him seriously? appropriating Americana culture mother and engagement on the Does an artist have to subscribe “I am standing up and telling and taunting ‘middle America’ with new-wave autotuned record 808s to our preconceived notions of how you: I am Warhol. I am the number scenes of a black man riding into and Heartbreaks. A quick glance they should look, act or talk like in one most impactful artist of our the sunset with his Caucasian wife. through his previous music videos order to deserve our respect? The generation.” “It’s my flag now- now what you shows he knows how to make a notion that popularity automatically When persistent tall talk like gonna do?” good one; the gorgeous self-directed equates to unsophistication is this makes Kanye’s diamond-gated Later that year, Kanye started ‘Runaway’ film speaks for itself. It’s irritatingly snobbish. Applying mouth sound like my arse after a rocking the confederate flag. A pretty insulting to think that he semiotics to Kanye West’s post- super-noodle binge, taking anything mainstay of redneck iconography, lacks the self-awareness to realise Swiftgate output opens up bounds he says seriously is a pretty big ask. this stirred up quite a fuss, pissing how tasteless ‘Bound 2’ looks. of subtext (check out his SNL-40 or But, what if he’s right? What if off both racists and those who’d Which leads me to question his DNC performance- I could go on he’s actually what he claims to be– a actually experienced racism at its oval office aspirations. Running about his subversive trolling of the Louis Vuitton garbed Lichtenstein? hands. Whether appropriate or not, against an incumbent president Glastonbury audience). The dude makes really fucking by adopting the historically racist is political suicide, and I don’t People love to laugh at the good music. That’s a pretty safe logo, Kanye’s made strides towards think Kanye winning a nationwide apparent stupidity of others. statement (if this upsets u hmu 4 Something funny about Kanye. Photo Credit: SNL disarming it, drawing parallels with popularity contest is going to Entertainers have been exploiting a good otolaryngologist). Outside the appropriation of n*gger. There happen anytime soon. When asked this idea for ages- just look at of that he’s kind of a walking his name - no, seriously, google it), ‘Hooked on a Feeling’ are uncannily come to kill King Kong/Middle seems to be a theme here. about his policy ideas directly after clowns and marketing maestro DJ punchline. Anyone who knows me its release and reception all part of a similar. Take any Bound 2 shot, and America packed in/Came to see me “But the guy really, really, really The hood Jodorowsky. Photo Credit: Kanye West and David Hasselhoff the announcement, a rare smile Khaled. It’s far easier to poke fun at will know I’m pretty avid advocate devilishly sly performance art piece you can find a corresponding shot in in my black skin” is talented… No one’s near doing escaped: ‘Everybody gets Yeezys.’ Kanye’s eccentricities than to take of Team-Yeezy (avid/obsessive; aiming to highlight and disarm ‘Feeling’ with the exact same colour Now in Bound 2, Kanye is either what he’s doing, it’s not even on the something pretty much exclusive with roots entrenched firmly in feature listed on the track list is YEEZY2020 highlighted the him seriously as an artist. Almost potay-to/potah-to), so I’m here to America’s latent cultural racism. gradient. dressed in lumberjack attire or a same planet.” - Lou Reed on Yeezus to punk and metal. Both white rock & roll). The dude’s persona ‘God,’ on the track ‘I Am a God.’ insanity of an unqualified celebrity too easy. expose the truth. The whole fake motorcycle is white-trash t shirt. Also exclusive Kanye’s pretty Lynchian in the dominated genres. is the closest thing we have to the The song features such absurdities thinking he can run the U.S.A. But what if he’s inviting us to Kanye West is a criminally straight from ‘Feeling.’ Kanye’s odd opacity of his art; what little he’s Provocative visuals flash behind rock stars of old in pop culture (by as ‘In a French-ass restaurant. Something topical starting with T make fun of him? underrated post-modern Kanye expressions when he busts in after divulged about his 6th LP Yeezus him as he performs: three inverted a LONG shot), so why’s everyone Hurry up with my damn croissants! and ending with P(rick) springs to “Think you’re laughin’ at me? Nah, performance artist. the intro? Imitating Hasselhoff ’s It’s clear has amounted to ‘fashion world Ku Klux Klan members loom getting so pissed off? ‘Rap’s the new I am a God.’ If said by anyone other mind. nah, I laugh at y’all/ …. /All they I know how this sounds (believe ok-Mitch-it’s-time-to-look- marginalisin me cos im black NEW against a white background, their than Ye, nobody’d be doubting their “Pop culture tries to force-feed a shit they talk, all the shit they write, me, my mates have made sure I West sexy stare at the start of ‘Feeling.’ SLAVES fuk u hedi slimane.’ traditionally white uniform flipped insincerity. He knows this; dude’s dumbed down version of everything. oh, I love it.” know EXACTLY how it sounds), Kanye spreading his wings in an that Kanye Yeezus has had people stumped for black. The imagery continues in the toying with how the public perceives but bear with me. Let’s start with inexplicable G-6 impression? Also a while, but looking at the album B&W ‘BLKKK SKKKN HEAD’ What if him. America’s bred a culture of an example - the ‘Bound 2’ music has straight from the Hoff. through the lens of a black man music video, where naked CGI self-hatred into its black populace. video. If you haven’t seen it, the As science boffins we can all agree doesn’t appropriating inaccessible white Kanyes of various shapes and size Everyone’s happy with black video begins with cheesy stock that correlation does not imply culture starts to clear the fog. spaz out to the tune. The video ends he’s musicians referring to themselves landscape clips before switching brilliantly causation, so let’s dig a little deeper. Ye’s made an angry, controversial with five black men in black KKK as gangsters, drug dealers, n*ggas… between Kanye awkwardly dancing During the ‘hooga hooga ooga mind record in frustration at his inability hoods advancing on the viewer. inviting us But a god? Ye’s inverted hyperbole and Kanye awkwardly riding a reversed chaka’ refrain of ‘Feeling,’ footage of to break into the fashion industry. Another instance of white racism aims to incite rage. motorcycle (often accompanied a sunglasses clad Hasselhoff runs in exposing As an outspoken black man, he stained black; disarmed. By adopting the moniker ‘Yeezus’, by the beloved millennial form of the background. His t-shirt’s tucked felt he couldn’t insert himself The SNL performance mimics to make Kanye’s inserting himself further Mary Magdalen, Kim Kardashian ‘Hooked into his pulled up cargo shorts as he into the fashion world, so he’s that of a rock star. Ye’s intensity into white iconography: a quick West). All scenes are shot against prances around a group of African himself to inserting himself into anything burns through the screen as he glance through Christian artwork a poorly disguised green screen, tribesmen. Dude’s looking pretty and everything else that’s similarly wields the mic stand, studded fun highlights Jesus as the most providing colourfully stylized (but On A cool. A second Hasselhoff (let’s call uncharted territory. leather jacket contentiously worn recognisable white figure in the ultimately trashy) backdrops to him Hoff-B) also appears, bopping ridicule The track ‘Black Skinhead’ over a low-cut t-shirt. The ‘rock star’ entire world. The concept’s extended Kimye’s shenanigans. The video’s around with a tribal weaponry, (paradox much?) was first heard is another exclusively white concept of him? in his Yeezus tour theatrics, where racked up a tidy 400,000 dislikes on Feeling’ otherwise kitted out in safari gear. with a ferocious performance live that Kanye’s been trying to sort out. ‘White Jesus’ comes on stage for a YouTube; the people aren’t a fan. It’s as if Hoff-B, singing ‘ooga to Bound 2 are the scenes of Kanye on SNL. Sonically, the song’s closer He’s repeatedly appointing himself quick what-up. The people have missed the point. ooga,’ brandishing native weapons, and Kim having as much fun as to rock than hip-hop; cavernous the title of ‘greatest living rock rock n roll.’ Kanye is repeatedly highlighting ‘Bound 2’ is a genius inversion of “Black timbs all on your couch is taunting the Africans by inserting you can have without your clothes drums chug away around a gnarly star,’ even screaming it repeatedly “If I don’t get ran out by Catholics/ his blackness by inserting it into the ‘Hooked on a Feeling’ music again/Black dick all in your spouse himself into their culture. on sur le moto. Pay attention to guitar-riff while Marilyn Manson- in the face of an overwhelming Here come some conservative everywhere society tells him it video by newly renamed David Hoff again” “They see a black man with a white the lighting in the video; Kanye’s esque gasps provide the essential white crowd of near 100 thousand Baptists” doesn’t belong. Black timbs all in (he wanted to ‘drop the Hassle’ from The visuals of ‘Bound 2’ and woman at the top floor, they gone features are consistently lit to be as earworm. Kanye gets his scream on; (at Glastonbury at that - a festival Back to the album. The only your couch again. Black dick all in Something funny about Kanye, again. Photo Credit: Normal Mag th th PAGE 32 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 felixonline.co.uk felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 33
TV [email protected] TV [email protected] The Man in the High Castle asks what if? Master of ‘Fun’ Cale Tilford Anurag Deshpande issues, from Feminism, to the Music Editor The world Writer representation of minorities in Refreshing, media, to the supposed ennui and is beautifully lack of direction of millennials. insightful, few weeks ago, without In this viewer’s opinion, the show hat if? It’s a much promotion or handles these with a deft touch. question that realised from fanfare, comedian Aziz Rather than serving the viewers and, intrigues, inspires Ansari and producer a ham-fisted metaphor sandwich, and the foundation the Japanese Alan Yang dropped their new Ansari and Yang wisely opt to most of many fictions. ‘The Man in the show,A ‘Master of None’; by way of guide us to our own realisations. HighW Castle’ asks: what would the infused San Netflix. The series’ rapidly growing This is further aided by the diverse importantly, world be like if Axis powers had popularity and critical acclaim is a cast and their diverse world views. won World War II? It is not content testament to the pervasiveness of There are no real villains here; not with simply offering an alternate Franciso the platform. Centring on twenty- even that guy masturbating on the damn history; the series goes further by something ‘Dev Shah’ making subway. Well, okay, maybe he is a having the character’s in its fictional to the Nazi his way through the world; each little bit. This cast also highlights funny universe ask the same question in episode is dedicated to exploring one of the other great strengths Relatable. Photo Credit: Netflix reverse. Their ‘what if ’ is our reality. one aspect of modern life. In fact, of the show; relatability. There are Based on Philip K. Dick’s novel controlled perhaps the show’s greatest strength characters and situations here that, I episodes maintain a high level of can also feel slightly wooden. The recommend that anyone and which contained a novel within a is its ability to highlight the humour dare say, anyone could identify with. quality continuing on. All that, of worst offenders for this are Dev’s everyone watch it. At the risk of novel, Frank Spotnitz’s adaption New York in the seemingly ‘everyday’. In For me, episode 2, ’Parents’ was a course, doesn’t mean the show isn’t parents. Although this fast becomes sounding pretentious, it’s also an replaces this literary device with that regard, it manages to be a particular highlight. Here, at least without its faults. There are a few self-explanatory and endearing once important show; for reasons that a series of films within a serialised City ‘situational comedy’ in the truest to me, Ansari perfectly captures unfunny jokes that tend to go on for you know that they are played by show’s fourth episode ‘Indians on television drama. An early glimpse The fun don’t stop when you drink orange soda pop. Photo Credit: Amazon Studios sense; where very little of the the parent-child dynamic of an too long, and Aziz’s mugging can Ansari’s real-life mother and father. TV’ illuminates far better than reveals that these reels of film plot feels manufactured. Perhaps immigrant family. occasionally border on the annoying. In fact, ironically enough, Dev’s I could. ‘Master of None’ is that show a world where the atom in lanterns and kanji signs, to the is was like before the war. He said weaknesses, their worries, and their Davalos) and Frank Frink (Rupert counterintuitively, this manages to As has become something of Some characters, Eric Wareheim’s father ends up being one of the best rare sitcom that manages to be bombs were dropped on Japan, not Nazi controlled New York City. every man was free.” Ultimately, the pain. Many of their actions are Evans) live in San Francisco; their make seemingly artificial moments a norm for new shows, the first ‘Arnold’ being a particular victim, characters on the show. refreshing, insightful, and, most Washington, and where the Allied Spotnitz uses famous landmarks to series plays with our overwhelming still horrific and coldly calculated, performances never falter and they even funnier. episode is probably the weakest. come across as one dimensional and Overall, these minor critiques importantly, damn funny. powers were ultimately victorious. emphasise the occupation; one of desire for freedom. but regret is often present in the feel appropriate for the time period, Through this exploration, ‘MoN’ Though that’s not to say it’s bad by cartoonish; seemingly serving no don’t really put much of a dent in Master of None is available now on The protagonist’s search for these the most powerful images in the The series reminds us of the aftermath. At no point does the but I never felt fully engaged in their also tackles a variety of social any stretch. In general, the following real purpose. At times, the acting the experience, and I would highly Netflix films to see a glimpse of what the series shows the screens of Times horrific views held by the Nazi and series suggest their actions were just struggle. Similarly, Joe Blake (Luke world could be and to deliver them Square covered in Nazi insignia. Japanese regimes. In one horrific (or that they are good people), but Kleintank) from New York and a to the mysterious ‘Man in the High We see supersonic passenger jets scene a high-ranking Japanese it’s not so reductive as to suggest double agent for the Nazi’s rarely Castle.’ speed through the sky at a time that officer commits seppuku. And the that every Nazi or Japanese officer is earns the audience’s sympathy. Set in 1962, we see what everyday far predates the first flight of the subjugation of the Jewish race is evil incarnate, a refreshing contrast The most compelling performance life is like under fascist rule, whether Concorde; the Nazi’s have brought explored, suggesting that while on to the current political obsession by far comes from Rufus Sewell in the Pacific States of America order and superior technology to the the surface society might seem calm with good and evil. who plays John Smith, a high The (not so) Regular Show (which the Japanese control) or the people of America. Yet as viewers there are still sinister forces at work. ‘The Man in the High Castle’ ranking SS officer. He commands second guessing as to how exactly The show brings a touch of Greater Nazi Reich (taking up most with an understanding of the reality Rather than showing the focuses on characters from both and dominates every scene, The show they will wrap up. For example one nostalgia to the table, capturing of Eastern America). The world is of the Nazi’s and Imperial Japan we conquerors as completely evil and sides of America. The main whether at work or with his family. time, Mordecai and Rigby go out to the essence of the older Cartoon beautifully realised from the Japanese know that this order comes with a heartless, Spotnitz displays their protagonists, and members of the There are suggestions that he has draws a get a grilled cheese sandwich, end Network shows with a great infused San Francisco, decorated sacrifice: “My father told me what more human side. We see their resistance, Juliana Crane (Alexa been traumatised by war, and a up being mistaken for astronauts atmosphere and a good and likable particular regret for actions of the through their lying and then get cast. It also has a modernised concentration camps. lot of its stuck in a chamber with a rampaging element, making it feel up to pace Similarly, Japanese trade minister sphere of antimatter that threatens with more modern trends. Given A refreshing played by Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa is strength to destroy the entire planet. a lot of the stuff that gets past the shown as gentle and thoughtful. In As extraordinary as the plots radar, it feels more like an Adult contrast the midst of a cold war between the from having may be, the show draws a lot of Swim cartoon wearing the skin of Japanese and the Nazi’s, he keeps a its strength from having excellent, a Cartoon Network one. There are to the cool head and as a result is easily the well-written characters. When you several times you may doubt this is most likeable character. excellent, meet them, everyone seems fairly a show written for kids; for example Together, these two characters, generic with their own traits and there is a scene where some of the current both on the side of the enemy, give well written roles. As you progress through characters go on an “acid trip”, a counter narrative that is both the show though, you see all the courtesy of a concoction of spicy political refreshing and progressive. characters get developed and shown foods. While there are a few problems Mordecai and Rigby, the show’s stars. Photo Credit: Cartoon Network characters some love at some point or another. All in all, this is definitely a with pacing in the second half, There is literally no character that fantastic, heart-felt show that will obsession where the series slows to an Saad Ahmed of those few rare instances where eat pizza and tacos. hasn’t gotten their own time to shine constantly subvert your expectations infuriating crawl, ‘The Man in the Writer TV can appeal to both children What makes the show unique to some extent; they’re all really and make you wonder what kind of with High Castle’ has the ability to satisfy and adults. The series features the and so great is the large and wild relatable and have their own issues tricks and ideas the creative team your curiosity unlike any other show main leads ‘Mordecai’, a blue jay, directions the show takes with that they have to go through. These will come up with next. With its good this year. Over ten episodes it delves he Regular Show, as the and ‘Rigby’, a raccoon, who are two seemingly ordinary tasks. The most issues parallel problems of our own, episodes only being around 10 deep into a convincing world - one tagline says, it’s anything twenty-something park workers. mundane situations and storylines such as the struggles of maintaining minutes long, it is truly a simple and that leaves a lasting impact. but. This masterpiece However, instead of working, they you can think of turn into very a long-distance relationship, trust quick show worth checking out. and evil The Man in the High Castle is of a show created by always prefer to slack off, play video interesting plots and subplots that issues, sibling rivalry, overcoming The Regular Show is now in its available now on Amazon Prime J.G. Quintel is an example of one games, watch TV, drink coffee and keep you interested, intrigued and insecurities etc. seventh season Bad guys don’t look at explosions. Photo Credit: Amazon Studios T friday 4 december
IMPERIAL GIRLS Student prices, CAN student DJs house // bass // Christmas Cocktail Club dnb // and more 4 December from 18:00 Reynolds Bar
Imperial Girls Can is our opportunity to encourage and celebrate women’s sport. Friday 4 December Continuing on from their successful This Girl Can campaign, Sport England have 20:00 - 02:00 joined forces with BUCS to promote female sport participation at universities nationwide between 30 November and 4 December. Metric and FiveSixEight In support of this Reynolds Bar is hosting a Special Cocktail Club to finish the week! Free before 20:00 £1.50 if you sign up to the Free mince pies and Christmas themed cocktails along side our classic menu; and Facebook event (must be in by as its so close to xmas its time to bring out those Christmas Tunes! 22:30) £2.00 with flyer Two Cocktails only £2.50 on the door £7.60
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coming up - see our website and newsletters for more details! Date Event Time Location Monday 7 December Live Comedy 20:00 - 23:00 The Union Bar Every Tuesday Super Quiz 20:00 - 22:00 FiveSixEight Every Tuesday Cocktail Night 18:00 - 23:00 Metric Every Wednesday CSP Wednesday 19:00 - 01:00 Metric & FiveSixEight Every Wednesday Sports Night 19:00 onwards Reynolds Every Friday PGI Friday cocktails 16:30 onwards h-bar Friday 4 December Reynolds Imperial Girls Can 18:00 - 00:00 Reynolds Friday 4 December Good Form 20:00 - 02:00 Metric & FiveSixEight imperialcollegeunion.org/whats-on felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4th DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 35
HANGMAN [email protected] NEWS WITHOUT THE NEWS
ANNE ROBINSON CALLS UNION’S NEW SCULPTURE ‘MASSIVE WASTE OF CASH’ “Same shit, different day.” TAURUS CANCER GEMINI VIRGO ARIES HOROSCOPES LEO
This week, you’re a desk in the This week you are the Scottish This week, you table a paper This week, you write arsey This week, you’re British- This week, you’re the union union. But not the famous population of England who at council to vote of no comments under FELIX born and Asian. After raising president. You charge a radio one, oh no. People come to voted ‘Yes’. After hearing that confidence yourself. Everyone articles. Congratulations! your hand to ask a what a show £6500 to appear for an SAC to marvel at the new you are not wanted here, you agrees, saying it was a long What you don’t know, is that word means in a lecture, your hour. You use the funds to desk, but no one wants a all leave for Scotland. As a time coming. At the last the writer with the most trolls lecturer asks the room if a build a statue of Margaret picture of you because you result, England’s economy minute, the ordinary member at the end of the year wins a ‘native speaker’ can help you Thatcher in Beit. Anne were just a flatpack from crashes, Scotland collapses filibusters your paper, and prize. Take that suckers. out. A German guy answers Robinson isn’t happy. IKEA. Out of spite, you leak due to overpopulation, and you’re saved. You drown your who’s better at English than details of the new desk’s costs the whole UK falls to ISIS. sorrows in Metric. all of us anyway. to FELIX. Great job. SCORPIO AQUARIUS SAGITTARIUS CAPRICORN PISCES LIBRA
This week, you’re Jeremy This week, you sneak round This week, you spend nine This week, you have a This week, you get change This week you think that Hunt. The governmentImperial collecting copies of hundred grand building a phenomenal scoop for from a tenner buying a [CENSORED] is a great decides to send you to Syria FELIX to make into a giant recording studio. However, FELIX. Unfortunately, you perfectly decent desk from idea, that’ll probably help to fuck shit up. You agree to papier mache figure of Kim it doesn’t work, and you’re send your tip-off to Hangman IKEA. Clever you. your grades. Unfortunately, go, calling it ‘a victory for Kardashian. You place it on forced to soundproof the by mistake, meaning that one the [CENSORED] on the common sense’. a plinth on Gloucester Road. room with old copies of of the horoscopes, although top goes wrong, leaving you Anne Robinson isn’t happy. FELIX, discarded protest unbelievable, is 100% true. [NSFW] and humiliated. [Enough! - Ed.] signs and members of The [Answers on a postcard. - Luckily, the next one gets Techtonics. Ed] [REDACTED] at the last minute, and you live to tell the tale. th th PAGE 36 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 felixonline.co.uk felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 37
PUZZLES [email protected] PUZZLES [email protected] FUCWIT Solo Efforts 1st Nicholas Sim 92 2nd Cherry Kwok 91 3rd Greg Poyser 42 4th Ayojedi 27 =5th Jan Xu 13 =5th Sach Patel 13 6th Harry Secrett 10 7th Joshua Wan 8 8th Ho Chin 7.5 =9th Grace Chin 3 =9th Jeremy Ong 3 Groups 1st CP Fanclub 45 2nd Gap Yahhhh 37.5 3rd Pufuletzi 37 4th Parmesan 9.5
Across 12. Innocent (9) Down 9. Owned up (9) 1. Steering apparatus (6) 17. Larceny (5) 1. Haven (6) 13. Tirades (anag.) (7) Points Available 17 4. Polar region (6) 19. Speech defect (7) 2. Agitate (7) 14. Japanese warrior (7) Crossword 3 8. Suspicious (5) 21. Borne (7) 3. Pharaoh’s land (5) 15. Heaps (6) Slitherlinks 4 9. Lake District county (7) 22. Approximately (5) 5. Love story (7) 16. Deliver a sermon (6) Sudoku 2 10. Greedy eater (7) 23. Piercing scream (6) 6. Midsection (5) 18. Mistake (5) Codeword 3 11. ___ and crannies (5) 24. Salad vegetable (6) 7. Unrefined (6) 20. Ghana’s capital (5) 4x4 Sudoku 4 Nonegram 1 Fresh Hair
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John Fresh operates within the Salon Rene Aubrey Email your solutions to 39 Old Brompton road [email protected] SW7 3HZ before midday on Wednesday! 80 meters from South Ken tube just past the Lamborghini show room th th PAGE 38 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 felixonline.co.uk felixonline.co.uk FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 PAGE 39
SPORT [email protected] SPORT [email protected]
Skiers triumph on dry slopes Samuel JacksonTri-IC at BUCS Duathlon 2015 Lisa Hey Writer in a decent performance on one of Writer Bussing the club’s Felt F95 bikes, finishing in a time of 51:38:4, placing him n the chilly morning of 206th overall. home with nd nly one short week after Sunday 22 November, In the elite women’s wave, Leanne Kings Round 2, ICSC’s 21 budding Imperial Lyons got a telling off by one of race team returned UCL and College duathletes the Marshalls for her precariously triumphantly to our prepared to make the 100-mile balanced helmet. Despite this, she favourite dry-slope at Brentwood Queen Ojourney to the Castle Coombe Race still managed to put in a strong for an epic third round. Bringing Circuit in Wiltshire, ready to make performance with a time of 56:30:9, O th almost twice as many racers as last an impression at BUCS Duathlon. making her the 54 fastest woman week – and more than twice as Mary’s A record 26 competitors had been of the day. Madeleine Whybrow much fun – ICSC smashed it once whittled down due to unfortunate and Bryony Halcrow followed again. injuries and illness – such is the shortly after, finishing in times of rd created The first team finished 3 , nature of this demanding sport! 57:41:6 and 59:12:2 respectively. whilst ICSC seconds managed The race started with a two mile Matt Douthwaite lapped most a respectable 8th place, with the a lively run around the perimeter fence of of the competition to finish 3rd in majority of racers popping their the race circuit before mounting the mixed wave with an impressive dry-slope cherries (and bruising atmosphere bikes and racing five laps of the time of 48:18:2 for a debut their arses in the process). This was circuit itself. The race finished all after an incredible round the with the same two mile run course Such is the 2015’s BUCS Duathalon team. Photo Credit: Tri-IC week before where we also came as expected albeit at a slower and more painful third, meaning our first team have 2015’s BUCS Duathalon team. Photo Credit: Ski Soc pace (unless your name is Matt duathlon appearance! His second enough to make up the time he had Imperial Triathlon has some big now qualified for the Kings Finals! Douthewaite). nature of this run time of 10:53:8, which was lost on Matt during the run, and he events lined up for 2016, including Bussing home with UCL and stashing, the London teams went Feel like you’re missing out? meet the club and head out with Facebook page for more info. We Marcus Bishop was first to race unexpectedly faster than his first, finished in a time of 52:34. BUCS sprint and standard distance Queen Mary’s created a lively for a well-deserved pizza before Join us next Wednesday for a snow the other board sports clubs. If you currently have the cheapest sessions in the men’s elite wave. Surrounded was the 46th fastest second run of The final TriIC race of 2015 was triathlons, as well as Easter and atmosphere as expected. After a heading out to celebrate a hard days social you won’t forget (no skiing want to get involved with our race out of all the London universities, by the perpetual woosh of disc demanding the day. Jonny Singh was the fastest concluded with a speedy ride back summer tours. If you are interested brief interlude of serious equipment work. involved). It’ll be a great chance to team or freestyle team check out our so come and get involved! wheels as duathletes of international Imperial duathlete on the bike, but to London followed by a refreshing in joining, you can email triath@ standards sped past him, Marcus put sport! his commendable efforts were not celebratory pint at the union. imperial.ac.uk to find out more!
th Upcoming matches 9 December th
UltimateChia-Yi Hou frisbee finish 14 at Nationals TENNIS NETBALL FOOTBALL Writer The discDoctors have an intense weekend in Coventry MEN’S 3rd WOMEN’S 2nd MEN’S 4th vs ROYAL HOLLOWAY vs ROYAL VETERINARY vs SOUTHBANK COLLEGE fter two days of tough and Bristol, both losses with scores more wins in bracket play against had strong players all around. The We started the game slightly slower BADMINTON WOMEN’S 4th MEN’S 3rd competition, Imperial’s of 6-8 and 3-7, respectively. Portsmouth (7-5) and University of final game was for 13th place in the than their opponents, giving up a vs ESSEX vs ST MARY’S ultimate frisbee team, On day two, dD sealed two Nottingham (7-6), both of whom tournament against Loughborough. small lead. But dD ran hard, and WOMEN’S 1st the discDoctors (dD), made a comeback to bring it within vs EXETER WOMEN’S 7th RUGBY UNION finished 14th out of 20 teams at a single point. The final point (MEDICS) the Division one Mixed Indoor started with dD on defense, and the nd th A WOMEN’S 2 (MEDICS) vs UCL MEN’S 5 (MEDICS) Nationals that took place in score tied up at 6-6, but in the end vs ESSEX vs ROYAL HOLLOWAY invites you to Coventry on 28-29 November. On Loughborough refused to give up a SQUASH day one in pool play, dD first took turnover, taking the game at 6-7. MEN’S 4th (MEDICS) MEN’S 2nd (MEDICS) DISCOVER OUR WORLD on Heriot Watt University, but The team had qualified for st and learn about the unique opportunities at Oliver Wyman nd vs KENT MEN’S 1 vs KENT that will accelerate your career. couldn’t keep up and ended the nationals, coming in 2 in the vs KCL game with a loss. East & London Mixed Indoors HOCKEY MEN’S 6th COMPANY PRESENTATION Next was a close match against Regionals on the weekend of 31 MEN’S 2nd vs SUSSEX ROYAL SCHOOL OF MINES BUILDING, IMPERIAL COLLEGE Oxford, with both teams trading October, losing only to Cambridge. MEN’S 5th (MEDICS) vs ESSEX LECTURE THEATRE 1.31 – LEVEL 1 points the whole way through. Now, after taking 1st place at the vs ROYAL HOLLOWAY VOLLEYBALL TUESDAY 27TH OCTOBER With less than 30 seconds to go and East & London Regionals earlier MEN’S 3rd 6.30PM FOR A 7PM START down 6-8, dD pulled out another in November, dD looks forward to th st MEN’S 6 vs ESSEX WOMEN’S 1 To attend please register via JobsLive point to put the game into capped sending a Men’s team to division vs READING vs ROYAL HOLLOWAY play and eventually universe point one Men’s Indoor Nationals in Get there faster (8-8). Imperial came out on top February 2016.
Oliver Wyman is a leading global management consulting firm that combines deep industry knowledge with with the win at 9-8 (although later In addition, dD men have a BUCS specialised expertise in strategy, operations, risk management, and organisation transformation. With offices in rd DISCOVER 50+ cities across 26 countries, Oliver Wyman works with the CEOs and executive teams of Global 1000 companies. Oxford went on to finish 3 in the outdoor league game against Sussex OUR WORLD An equal opportunity employer. tournament). on 2nd December, and Outdoor The last two games of day one Nationals for Mixed, Men’s and were tough matches against Leeds discDoctors are all smiles after putting in a good effort at Nationals. Photo Credit: Imperial Frisbee Women’s in March and April 2016. th PAGE 40 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2015 felixonline.co.uk
SPORT [email protected] Immortals defeated despite strong effort Panukorn Taleongpong was recovered by a Hertfordshire Writer defensive back, leading it towards the end zone. After a miss kick and ast Sunday saw the an unsuccessful conversion, the first Immortals’ third game quarter ended with a score of 0-13. of the season, against the The nd2 quarter started out Hertfordshire Hurricanes. miserably for the offensive team: With both teams going into the false starts resulted in small Lgame with two games down, both yardage gained, while miss-tackles were hungry for their first win. from resulted in the Hurricanes The Hurricanes, however, came out getting back close to our end zone. triumphant with a score of 6-36. However, this was made up in the Despite tough conditions both following play with the defensive teams came out ready to start. After team recovering the ball after a few plays on offense, Bami Falana, a forced fumble. Minor errors one of our starting running backs, within the next few offensive plays picked up an injury and was taken caused significant repercussions What are they talking about in there? Photo Credit: Imperial Immortals out. We wish him a swift recovery. resulting in a QB sack and a safety. Due to strong winds, pass plays were After a successful touchdown and was forced to move backwards, and The final quarter was filled with pass against the defense. scarce and our defense were tested conversion, the Hurricanes ended Hertfordshire were able to score various fumbles and recoveries The Immortals have yet to turn on their ability to stop run plays. the second quarter with the score of another touchdown from a pass play from both sides. One in particular, their season around. However, with They were consistent throughout 0-22. against the defense; a successful recovered by Paulius Viskis, was only three games played, there is the 1st quarter, although the The rd3 quarter started out strong conversion brought the score to very close to Hurricane’s end zone, plenty of time to do it. Hurricanes scored a touchdown due for the offense with running backs 0-29. The next offensive plays were and set up Papa Noach for a much- The Hurricanes will now host to an unsuccessful pick from Alex Emanuel Olagbaju and Jonathan abundant with Olagbaju’s ungodly needed touchdown. Unfortunately, the next game at Hertfordshire, Brockhurst. In the absence of Falana, Robert Joseph plowing through the runs and trucks, but continuous the conversion was unsuccessful and where the Immortals look towards players were determined to lift up defensive lines. However, because of false starts continued to render the score was 6-29, with the final redeeming themselves and finally morale, but a fumble on a pass play false starts, the line of scrimmage progress slow. touchdown was the result of a lob turn their season around.
Womens’ Rugby leave their mark on tour Vivien Hadlow got to Oceana, where most of us and you could barely keep the subs all-in for our Mad Max theme – the home. Comment Editor danced the night away in an evening off the pitch. We played a strong picture explains all really. Proud of all we had achieved in memorable for all, but some went game, with tries from Becca 1, Our joint social was slightly one the day, we were happily surprised back to the hut early – purely to Becca 2, Lizzie, and Sam bringing sided (we would have loved to have by how rich we all still were (why, outhampton was the lucky better prepare for Saturday’s match. us to a 17-32 victory against the more new dancing buddies!), but London, why?). destination for this term’s The next day, everyone was keen, Southampton medics’ team. (Freya nothing could detract from the pure Sunday was IKEA-breakfast day IC Women’s Rugby tour, raring to go in the unrelenting rain, also brought us our first conversion joy that was Jesters. After another (meatballs have never looked so and while the weather was of the year, woowoo!) magical evening, and left only good) and time for the sad trip back mediocre, the rest of the weekend Our costume game was truly slightly confused by the double- home. Swas far from it. Our Mad something to witness as we went toilet cubicle, we made our way Roll on the next tour! Scandalously, we were separated on the way there, and had to go on two different coaches, but the Max reunion was oh-so-sweet. Following an outing for beverages and much- needed food, we headed back to base themed (a luxurious scout hut) and were given personalised tour tasks; some costume were passed with flying colours over the course of the weekend (shout- out to Laura using an ASDA carrier game bag as a handbag on both nights), and some monumentally failed. All was settled at ‘Tour Court’, a solemn was truly judicial process in which tour offenders were given an opportunity something to redeem themselves before Her Honour Ran (tour secretary and justice for the evening). to witness With a new sense of purpose, we Women’s Rugby, like Mad Max, easily passes the Bechdel Test. Photo Credit: Women’s Rugby