#277 by Impact Magazine

IMPACT SHOWCASE

investigation

features

news

entertainment

sport

reviews

lifestyle

podcasts

Dear loyal (or new) reader, So, we find ourselves on the third edition of our magazine. Whilst it is slightly bittersweet for the individuals who are in their final year of university, we hope this magazine is a reminder of the days getting that little bit longer and the puffer jackets slowly being replaced with erm… thinner jackets, I guess? Either way, spring has *almost* sprung and what better way to rejuvenate your post-exam self than getting stuck into some bloomin’ fabulous reads. #277 covers a range of remarkably important stuff and is accompanied by breathtaking illustrative genius. Our features section delves deep into the crazy global political sphere with Alfie Johnson’s piece titled ‘Behind Closed Doors: What can we learn from the scandals of political leaders’. As you move across the pages, you will find yourself engrossed in Impact’s truly iconic ‘love letters’ brought to you by the one and only Entertainment section and a very serious piece: a review of the new Mean Girls Musical. We also have some wonderful Lifestyle and Sports pieces including Leacsaidh Marlow’s “The Multiverse- Madness or Material?” and Tom Southgate’s guide to navigating the difficulties of being a sportsperson in “Sleep, Students, and Sport”. For this edition, you will be pleased to see the return of our fantastic investigations section and the team have exceeded all expectations with their returning piece covering Nottingham’s Nightlife. This edition’s cover is perhaps my favourite from our 23/24 series as it so beautifully conveys the essence of springtime. Our design team & Print Editor, Vivika Sahajpal, truly never miss! Whilst we are on the topic of our A class design team, consisting of Jocey Neligwa, Ed Farley, Thomas Acratopulo, Massimo Giachino, Clara Wodny, Alife Johnson, and Vivika Sahajpal, make sure to check out our photoshoot. The team has wonderfully handcrafted a shoot which seeps creativity and embodies the charm of mixed media. As you embark on the latter part of your university journey this academic year I encourage you to explore more of your university city during the spring/summer months. Nottingham has so many green spaces to offer, many of which are within walking distance of University Park Campus! You may not all agree but I wholeheartedly believe the majority of them are much more enjoyable in the sunshine… With yet another round of exams and coursework periods incoming, it is important to prioritise time spent outdoors whenever you can. Whilst the British weather is highly unpredictable, try to get out as much as possible and explore the hidden gems of the city. On behalf of the Impact team, we wish you well for the remainder of your assessments and we hope this will be a time of both academic and personal flourishing. And finally, a huge thank you for picking up your *favourite* magazine on campus. Although with that being said, we have heard through the grapevine that our friends over at Lingo are certainly giving us a run for our money. Rest assured though there is no competition here, so for all of your culture and language interests please grab yourself a copy of their newest edition! More details can be found on their instagram @lingomag_

TAKE CARE, LOTTIE MURRAY

Contents features Behind Closed Doors: What can we learn from the scandals of political leaders 5-6 Alfie Johnson Cosplaying Woke: The Age of Corporate Pandering 7-8 Emma Burnett The Science Behind ‘Spring Fever’ 9-10 Rachael Proud

Lifestyle 11-12

Is Travelling the Best Compatibility Test? Harriet Rothwell-Inch

Inclusivity or Exclusivity? The Consequences of Labelling Fashion as ‘Queer’ 13-14 Kate Hayhurst Ve-gains: a vegetarian or vegan’s guide to protein Anna Boyne The Multiverse – Madness or Material? Leacsaidh Marlow

15-16

17-18

Entertainment Nujabes - The Godfather of Lori Hip Hop 19 Sana Pethurupillai The Last Dinner Party Kira O’Boyle

Love Letters Christy Clark & Natalie Howarth 21 Beyond the Red Carpet: Examining the Reality of Diversity in Film Awards Yasmine Medjdoub

Exploring Creative Minds through the art of gaming 23-24 Natalie Howarth Street Art: From An Act of Vandalism to A Catalyst of Urban Regeneration 25-26 Clara Wodny

Illustrated Couture: A Collection

27-32

reviews Critics Recommend Ellie-Mae Davies,Natalie Howarth, Amy Child, Hannah Walton-Hughes, Emma Burnett, Ana Balanici

33-36

Get in, loser. We’re reviewing the new Mean Girls movie! 37-38 Jacob Edwards

Investigation

39-42

by Vivika Sahajpal, Arabella Mitchell, Serena Mehdwan, Ainslie McDonald and Alex Paszkowicz

sport A Personal Comeback That Silenced A Doubter 43 Ben Stacey Thriving on a Budget: Cost-Effective Tips To Maintain A Healthy Lifestyle 44 Charlotte Deville Sleep, Students & Sport Tom Southgate

45-46

uon creative writing

47-48

Ed Farley, Jess Couchman, Aldea Toth

features

In a political climate where distrust of government is commonplace, scandals of political leaders have become worryingly customary. Global downfalls of presidents have caused plenty of public outrage and scrutiny; including President Nixon’s impeachment following the infamous Watergate scandal, the uncovering of Bill Clinton’s sexual relations with Monica Lewinsky and more recently Partygate – a series of government parties during Covid-19 held at 10 Downing Street, which led to Boris Johnson’s resignation as Prime Minister. This article explores the political and social consequences of political scandals, not just for individuals but for political parties, as well as proffering what can be done to reduce these debilitating scandals in the future. Politics is undoubtedly a constantly fluctuating phenomena, with public opinion and political popularity ever changing. Scandals of political leaders most directly have significant influence on the individuals’ reputations, a consequence which certainly affected Bill Clinton following the Clinton-Lewinsky scandal. The scandal involved former US president Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky, a white house intern. The pair had a sexual relationship which began in 1995 and ended in 1997, resulting in Clinton’s impeachment[1] after he denied any relationship to Lewinsky, infamously claiming ‘I did not have sexual relations with that woman’. As a result of the scandal, Clinton was supported by approximately 30% fewer Americans[2], with many feeling betrayed by a figure who should symbolise integrity, as well as feeling sceptical about other areas where Clinton may have been dishonest. As well as individual damages to reputation, the scandals of political leaders often affect their political parties. This has seemingly occurred in the United Kingdom following the Party gate scandal, which saw gatherings of conservative party and government staff during Covid 19, despite lockdown still being adhered to by the public. The subsequent public scrutiny on former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, was a major contributing factor to his resignation in 2022. There has also been major political fallout for the conservative party, as a Covid inquiry[3]suggested that the scandal had destroyed trust in the UK government and damaged their ability to deal with future health crises. Not only that, but the scandal has had an effect on their future political support, as a current general election prediction conducted by Electoral Calculus[4], predicts Conservative votes falling from a 44.7% majority in 2019 to just 24.7% in the fast approaching next general election. A potential outcome of political scandals, that is undoubtedly the most concerning, is the possible reduction in voter turnout due to lack of government trust and support. With voter turnout significantly reducing in the United Kingdom since the 2016 Brexit Referendum[5] and new legislation surrounding the requirement of voter ID being passed, voter turnout in the UK is already declining.

BE H C LO What can we learn from

“As well as individual damages to reputation, the scandals of political leaders often affect their political parties.”

O D Written by Alfie Johnson

the scandals of political leaders

“The most immediate solution is to protect media freedom and access to information”

So, the question that is posed therefore is how can we reduce these political scandals which are so debilitating to politics and voter confidence in government? The most immediate solution is to protect media freedom and access to information, to ensure that journalists can investigate and report on government activities without fear of reprisal. This in turn will hold political leaders accountable and deter them from acting in a dishonest manner. An example which emphasises the importance of media freedom in eliminating political corruption, is the influence that journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein had on uncovering the Watergate scandal. The Watergate scandal involved the break in and robbery of the Democratic National Committee Headquarters at the Watergate Office Building, sanctioned by former US president Richard Nixon in 1972. Nixon was impeached and forced to resign in 1974 after the ‘Nixon White House tapes’ revealed that he had conspired to cover up illegal activities that occurred after the burglary. Woodward and Bernstein’s role in drawing national and media attention to the scandal, despite being censored, was pivotal in uncovering and condemning the Watergate scandal, making it much more likely that a similar situation would not occur again.

“Governments must encourage a culture of accountability using effective protections for whistle-blowers”

Design by Jocey Neligwa

features

D IN SED S OR

According to a report conducted by Alia Middleton[6] on the effect of political scandals on by-elections, the notion that people will simply stay at home and abstain from voting due to lack of belief in government is becoming an increasingly likely possibility. Middleton concluded that when MPs start behaving ‘scandalously’, it ‘confirms people’s worst fears[7]’, which subsequently discourages people from voting.

However, the most important factor which will minimise the occurrence of scandals of political leaders is to provide whistle-blower protection. Governments must encourage a culture of accountability using effective protections for whistle-blowers, so that individuals feel safe and protected when coming forward with information about potential scandals. Whistleblowing is the most likely source of information about political scandals and can be an important asset to deter political corruption from occurring. For instance, without the two whistle-blowers who leaked photographic evidence of parties held at Downing Street during Covid 19; Party gate would have likely been successfully covered up, as one whistle-blower established, ‘I could no longer sit back and watch this cover-up[8]’. When scandals of political leaders emerge, we are powerfully reminded of the importance of having trust in the people that have such influence over our lives. Throughout recent history we have seen that scandals of political leaders are not uncommon, which will likely continue to be a trend in the future. Maybe then if we can’t directly stop the scandals of individuals occurring, it becomes vital that governments, as institutions, prioritise exercising measures which will prevent and deter these political scandals from manifesting.

Cosplaying Woke: The Age of Corporate Pandering

By Emma Burnett

Illustrations by Vivika Sahajpal

features

In the modern Western world, we are witnessing a proliferation of progressive attitudes being adopted by various popular companies. More and more businesses are claiming to be the champions for liberal attitudes, including those related to Feminism, the LGBTQ+ movement, and Black History Month. Yet beneath the marketing façade lies a hypocritical corporate reality, and one which implicates many companies of utilising politically progressive ideas simply to generate profit. Impact’s Emma Burnett explores the variety of liberal attitudes that have been incorporated into company marketing campaigns within recent years and investigates whether such strategies indicate a genuine drive to create social change.

Traditionally, pandering refers to expressing views for the sole purpose of appealing to someone else. Corporate pandering is a similar phenomenon, but the pandering is committed by large companies, in the name of marketing themselves as ‘woke’ to appeal to certain groups. In the increasingly capitalist Western world, it has become commonplace for large companies to utilise politically engaged marketing campaigns, particularly during global holidays such as Pride Month, Black History Month, and International Women’s Day. it has become commonplace for large companies to utilise politically engaged marketing campaigns, particularly during global holidays such as Pride Month, Black History Month, and International Women’s Day. This phenomenon has sparked an interesting debate about whether corporate pandering is useful for spreading positivity and awareness around such political movements, or whether the capitalist motives behind it undermine the cause.

‘Femvertising’ is often used only when it is convenient or profit-driving Each year, around International Women’s Day, we see an influx of advertising campaigns centred around female empowerment. Whilst it is refreshing to see stereotypes being reversed and rewritten in mainstream media spaces, it can also feel rather faux. ‘Femvertising’, as coined by SheKnows Media, refers to the presentation of feminist values and empowering messages for women and girls in advertising. However, ‘femvertising’ is often used only when it is convenient or profit-driving, such as during International Women’s Day celebrations. Some feel that this approach to marketing is exploitative, as it takes advantage of a marginalised group’s desire to be represented positively – research by SheKnows Media concluded that 52% of women have bought a product because they liked how the brand and its advertising portrays women. Moreover, it is often the case that, despite pro-female advertising strategies, brands do not equally reflect the messages they put out in their own products and corporate structures. Pantene, for example, came under fire for their 2014 ‘Sorry Not Sorry’ campaign, which told women they need not be sorry for speaking their minds, nor for having shiny hair, meanwhile upholding gender norms with their overtly female-targeted cosmetics. Audi India also blundered, with their 2021 IWD campaign ‘#drivethechange’. Their campaign focused on redefining negative stereotypes around women and driving but was met with criticism due to the company’s fundamentally male-dominated corporate structures. International Women’s Day is not a time for corporations to put on a feminist front to make some money – it is a time to reconsider brand values, to change outdated corporate structures to champion women, and to make a change to women’s rights.

Discussions around racism should not be resigned to just a month, but should be active all year round Another cultural holiday which is often mistreated by the advertising industry is Black History Month (BHM). The month is a time in which to reflect on Black history and celebrate the historical achievements of Black people. However, this is sometimes overlooked by brands which use this month as a chance to market themselves as ‘anti-racist’.

The holiday most heavily associated with corporate pandering is Pride Month. Commemorating the 1969 Stonewall Riots, Pride Month is a month dedicated to the celebration of LGBTQ+ (LGBTIQA+?) identities. However, Pride Month can often be overshadowed by commercialism, with capitalist-driven brands covering themselves in rainbows and pro-LGBTQ+ messaging every June. This has become an in-joke online, with many memes on social media lamenting the transparency of these brands who show up for the queer community only when it brings in profit. Bethesda (American video game publisher for the likes of Fallout and Skyrim) has been called out for its performative activism on social media. This brand, amongst others, was caught changing its profile picture to a rainbow logo across some of its Twitter accounts, like Bethesda France, whilst the Bethesda Middle East and Bethesda Russia accounts remained unchanged. Not only does changing a profile picture do very little for LGBTQ+ rights, but Bethesda has shown its support for Pride Month extends only to where it is profitable. Pride Month is another time of year exploited by capitalist corporations and made into a commercial event, detracting from the extremely important history of the event.

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An example of this would be Barnes and Noble’s BHM 2020 campaign in which they launched a plan to redesign the covers of classics such as Frankenstein and Romeo and Juliet to include black characters. This was met with heavy criticism: changing the covers of books written by non-black authors does nothing to celebrate black people. This brand of ‘performative’ activism often takes the form of posting a statement on social media or changing a profile picture to recognise BHM, but not actually making a conscious effort to act on it. Discussions around racism should not be reduced to just a month but should be active all year round. Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream have been a longstanding advocate for a range of social issues. During the 2020 Black Lives Matter movements, they were recognised for vocalising their support of the movement and calling out ‘systemic structural racism’ in the US. This company goes further than Instagram hashtags and vague statements, partnering with social change organisations such as the Advancement Project National Office and the Close the Workhouse Coalition. Whilst it is positive to see companies celebrating and getting involved with BHM, their efforts must be guided by a genuine desire to drive change. Companies must implement diversity, equality and inclusion into their workforce, they must give a platform to black voices, and their advertising campaigns must reflect their values, beliefs and corporate strategies.

The core of it is that corporate pandering increases profit Why does corporate pandering happen? Nowadays, there is more demand for companies to engage with and speak out on social and cultural issues. Brands want to be on the right side of history, meaning there is pressure for them to take a more progressive or liberal stance. Unfortunately, the core of it is that corporate pandering increases profit. Research consistently shows that consumers are more likely to buy a product if the brand’s marketing aligns with their own views. Corporate pandering does not come from a place of good intention, it is simply a profit-driven marketing strategy. In some ways, corporate pandering may feel like a positive thing – surely mainstream brands showing support for marginalised groups is a step in the right direction for society? Positive representations of marginalised groups like the LGBTQ+ community are a good thing; the media plays a huge role in constructing stereotypes and ideologies about certain demographics. Therefore, however misguided these representations are, when large brands engage in corporate pandering, they can help destigmatise conversations around race, sexuality and gender. Although, corporate pandering will always feel faux if brands continue to represent themselves as ‘progressive’, without reflecting these views in their corporate structures and hiring processes. Companies have a duty to be active in conversations around equality, diversity and inclusion all year round, not just when it is relevant or convenient. Corporate pandering is simply not enough.

The Science Behind Illustrations by Ed Farley

features

Every winter I refuse to believe that I am not my best: dragging myself through basic self-maintenance, feeling unmotivated to go out with friends, and instead choosing to spend my time hibernating in my room watching Brooklyn 99 for the 15th time, somehow convincing myself that this is completely normal. Then, the 1st of March hits. A glimpse of sunlight and I’m running around complimenting strangers’ dogs. I promise you I am a completely different person, and I am appealing to you, I beg that I am not alone in this. Henceforth, for the past few weeks, I have made it my life’s work to source the reasoning behind why we feel so much better during Spring. Why do we become motivated to Spring clean? Why do we all become obsessed with New Beginnings? Why does being outside just hit differently? Well just sit tight and keep reading. I would LOVE to tell you.

One of the main reasons why spring gives you that extra bit of energy is because, in comparison to the dark, dull days of winter, the days become longer, so quickly! Especially in the esteemed East Midlands, during the depths of winter, the sun would start setting at around 3.30 and it would be pitch black by 4 pm – and as someone with a lecture in a dark, windowless room from 3-4 pm, it was outrageously bleak having to repeatedly walk home in what seemed like the dead of night. When we measure the approximate hours of darkness in the UK each month – according to The Guardian, December is by far the dimmest, darkest month of the year, with the UK having an average of only 41 hours a week of sunlight. As soon as spring hits and we reach March, the UK begins to average at a much higher (and nicer) 102 hours of sunshine per week – with April seeing yet another massive leap to 148 hours. Not only does the fact of staying lighter for longer sound great on paper, but increasing the amount of light per day, also helps us to feel a lot more active: it encourages us to walk more; we find waking up in the morning is easier; we might actually commit to our “morning jogs’’ when it’s not in the pitch black. This increase in physical activity also plays such an instrumental role in improving our mental health. I love David Ross Sports Village more than anyone… but it’s so much more likely that I’ll actually have the motivation to leave my house when the sun’s out… just saying…

By Rachael Proud When we compare the higher amounts of vitamin D to the longer amount of light, and increased activity, the occurrence of spring is basically like an update for our bodies’ serotonin factories

As humans, whether we know it or not, massive parts of our lives are dictated by the amount of light we get in our system. I’m sure we’ve all heard of the amazing effects of Vitamin D, and how it is basically the secret to happiness, but there are so many nuances about this super-vitamin. According to Ann Webb, professor of atmospheric radiation at Manchester University “As a very rough guide, if the UV index is less than two, then you will not make any appreciable amounts of vitamin D in a practical time period”, and the closer to summer, the higher the UV index becomes and, henceforth, we can begin making more vitamin D in a much shorter time frame. Moreover, as the temperature gets hotter, we shed our winter coats in exchange for vests and shorts, meaning more skin is exposed, which just helps vitamin D production even more! And when we compare the higher amounts of vitamin D to the longer amount of light, and increased activity, the occurrence of spring is basically like an update for our bodies’ serotonin factories. I know that I probably sound like your grandma telling you to get outside and touch grass, but honestly, your vitamin D levels are no joke. Vitamin D is a great boost to your immune system (which will help you ward off that freshers/refreshers flu), and all of its

‘Spring Fever’ The trees aren’t bare, we get to see more wildlife, and everything just becomes so much more colourful and fruitful

So yeah, if you’ve scanned towards the end of the article, spring just rules. It’s lighter, more colourful, and it’s warmer. Apart from the fact that there are no Christmas movies, it trumps winter in every single way. As our environments around us burst with colour and life, spring for many people is associated with rebirth – it’s the only time on the calendar when everything in nature unanimously decides to restart the cycle, and I think we deserve that too. I know that a lot of people are obsessed with the idea of “New Year’s Resolutions” and “New Year, New Me”, but honestly, the deep, dark, depressing winter is not the time to make all these promises to yourself. And so, if you’re anything like me, normally spending your spring guzzling antihistamines by the gallon, standing in solidarity with our fellow hay fever sufferers, may this article be a reminder that science is on your side. Harness the power of light, use the colours of nature, capture every second of the day and use this Spring Fever to focus on your wellbeing and establish these new healthy habits to improve yourself. You’ve got this.

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I know I’ve been chatting a lot, but the final reason why the spring light helps us feel more energised? Light is actually just so beautiful. Have you ever heard of photosynthesis? Yeah. That’s light! Take a walk around Portland in the spring and it’s just blossom after blossom, with the light being a fundamental component to creating the beautiful aspects of nature that we know and love. The trees aren’t bare, we get to see more wildlife, and everything just becomes so much more colourful and fruitful – and whilst my loyalty does and will always lie with the crunchy leaves and cosy feel of autumn, by the time we reach the spring, I’m always looking forward to the breath of life that everything around us takes. One of my favourite things to do when walking to and from lectures is just to whack on a good playlist and just take in my surroundings – because when we step away from how busy our lives as students are, we realise that our campus has some really beautiful places!

Is Travelling the Best Compatibility Test? By Harriet Rothwell-Inch Design by Alfie Johnson

Compatibility is massively important in any relationship, romantic or otherwise. You want to ensure that yours and your partner’s interests align to minimise stress and avoid potential conflict. That goes for every aspect of your life, from your core values all the way to your travel ideals. Travel is one of the many ways people test their relationship compatibility, and it truly can be a makeor-break situation. I’ve heard horror stories of decades-long relationships deteriorating after one ill-fated trip abroad; the catalyst for the breakdown being anything from the type of accommodation booked and food available, to people not respecting budgeting differences and boundaries. Sometimes it’s even something as simple as holiday style and destination!

Lifestyle

Well, if loving the same type of travel is the ultimate measure of compatibility in a relationship, then my boyfriend and I are as incompatible as they come.

If I had it my way, I would be travelling to a different European city each month and taking long weekend city breaks. I would have a jam-packed itinerary of all the cultural hotspots, and a list of cute, artisan cafes and bars to visit, and I’d be out from sun up to sun down exploring that city until my feet fell off. To me, travelling is about discovering new places and making the most of being somewhere you’ve never been before. If I’m not packing in as much as I possibly can into my trip, then I’m not making the most of it – and who knows when I’ll next get to travel again?

“To me, travelling is about discovering new places and making the most of being somewhere you’ve never been before.”

Scott, my boyfriend, is the polar opposite. He loves his rest and relaxation and he would gladly spend three weeks straight lounging in the sun on the beach or at a resort by the pool, reading, napping and occasionally going for a dip. If there are any activities planned at all, he’d prefer that they be spread out between his days of R&R, although he’s not unwilling to do more intensive days, especially if it’s an activity he’s really excited about! To him, holidays are primarily about slowing right down and taking time for yourself to fully unwind.

“To him, holidays are primarily about slowing right down and taking time for yourself to fully unwind.”

I won’t deny that these differences have led to some pretty intense disagreements over the course of our relationship, both when planning our travels and when we’re already on holiday. To be honest, one of the main disagreements we have on holiday is about where and when we get food. Does this mean we’re doomed to fail? I think the fact we’ve been together for 10 years says otherwise. What it does mean, is that we’ve learned to communicate our needs so that we can both enjoy ourselves when we’re travelling together.

It has also helped us both to see what we’ve been lacking in our individual travels in the past. For Scott, he has grown to appreciate a style of travel that lends itself to more exploration and adventure. As long as he knows there’ll be a chance to relax for a few hours later in the day, he’ll happily join me on my sightseeing exploits. As for me, I’ve never really known how to properly relax, and that’s definitely reflected in the travels I embark on. I can’t remember the last solo trip I took where I allowed myself to stop and smell the roses. It’s taken a while, and a lot of gentle encouragement, but Scott has helped me to see the value in proper rest and relaxation holidays. We took a trip to Tenerife shortly after my undergraduate graduation and stayed at a small all-inclusive resort, where we spent 10 days sunbathing by the pool, reading, and occasionally wandering down into the village.

“The true compatibility test comes from how you communicate and handle these differences”

Some people say you never truly know someone until you travel with them. While travelling together as a couple is a great way to see how much fun you’ll have, and whether you’ll be able to make lifelong happy memories together, I don’t think you should judge your entire relationship based on it. At the end of the day, as long as you and your partner communicate, you can get through anything together – whether that’s a 5-hour delay at the airport or a tiff over deciding when and where you’re going to get dinner.

“There’s definitely something to be said about witnessing the joy your partner experiences when they’re sharing their ideal holiday”

Lifestyle

There’s definitely something to be said about witnessing the joy your partner experiences when they’re sharing their ideal holiday with you. Even if it’s not your idea of fun, it can be just as fulfilling and enjoyable as if you were on your dream travels. I know Scott loves seeing my face light up when I’m wandering around a new city, looking up at the buildings and commenting on how beautiful they are. Just as much as I love watching him fully relax with a beer by the pool, or take a midday nap in the sunshine while I read next to him.

Using travel as a compatibility test is a high-risk, high-reward situation. Maybe your travel interests and ideals align, or maybe they don’t; that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re incompatible as a couple. The true compatibility test comes from how you communicate and handle these differences. Do you ignore them and pretend everything’s perfect, only to have one of you compromise on your wants and needs, leading to a massive argument that, in some cases, could signal the end of your relationship? Or do you communicate and make each other aware of your wants and needs, discussing how you’ll handle any differences before you set sail in order to avoid potential unnecessary conflict?

Since the past two trips Scott and I have taken have been ‘Hattie-Style’ city breaks (3 days in Valencia, and an overnight P&O Ferries trip to Amsterdam), we’ve agreed that the next time we go travelling, Scott gets to choose where we go and what we do. I have no doubt we’ll go somewhere warm and sunny, spending a few weeks just soaking up the sun and letting the world pass us by.

Inclusivity or Exclusivity? By Kate Hayhurst

Lifestyle

They say don’t judge a book by its cover, but that is precisely what is beginning to happen within the fashion world. On average, one person in the UK will spend £1093 on clothes in one year, emphasising the significance of fashion. Over the years, ‘style’ has become not only a way to dress, but also a way to express identities and align ourselves with a particular group. Many major brands are expanding their range to become more inclusive, such as Zara with their women’s waistcoats and Goose and Gander as a mainstream gender-neutral brand. While it can be empowering to have a trope of identities presented in fashion, downfalls are beginning to emerge from this effort, which may reinforce stereotypes in the media and wider society. We have come a long way since the 1950s when the stereotypically encouraged way a woman could dress was to wear pencil skirts and tight sweaters. The fashion industry and people’s views regarding women and how they can dress have progressed. We now don’t only have a ‘one size fits all’ approach, but a long list of identities of what it means to dress like a woman.

“Despite attempts at inclusivity, misconceptions about gender and clothing persist in the fashion industry”

This achievement was made possible by collaborating with a diverse group of influencers, showcasing a variety of fashion styles on the red carpet, and, perhaps most importantly, by the rise of new companies that cater to specific identities. Famous fashion brands have also expanded their range by promoting different styles. Having waistcoats and dresses under the women’s label on their website, at first sight, shows that any of these clothes can match a woman’s identity. Despite attempts at inclusivity, misconceptions about gender and clothing persist in the fashion industry due to traditional and patriarchal gender roles. For example, a recent article published by Vice had its headline ‘How to dress to show that you’re queer (without just slapping on a rainbow)’. The article provides dressing instructions, including wearing jorts, dad shirts, and a loud-patterned suit. Having this as a step-to-guide to be identified as queer is concerning. While it may be an attempt to promote visibility, it simultaneously promotes stereotypes. The notion that lesbians should dress in a masculine manner reinforces gender stereotypes regarding sexuality and relationships. While it may promote same-sex relationships, it still relies on traditional relationship roles where one partner dresses in a masculine fashion and the other in a feminine fashion. It also suggests that within a same-sex relationship, there should be someone ‘wearing the pants’, someone who is more masculine than the other. On the other hand, many celebrities are adopting the pantsuit style and showcasing it on the red carpet. For instance, openly straight actress Daisy Edgar Jones looked stunning in her fitted, flattering pantsuit attending a London Premiere. It’s wonderful to see a woman in a high-profile environment acknowledging this trend. Thanks to its growing popularity this look is now considered fashionable and up-todate, meaning people can now wear stereotypically ‘lesbian’ clothing without fear of criticism or reaction. Many will concur that having it publicly acknowledged in the fashion industry is consoling.

The Consequences of Labelling Fashion as ‘Queer’ Due to certain pieces of clothing having ‘invisible’ labels on them, non-queer people may feel hesitant to buy a garment due to not wanting to appropriate the queer community. Therefore, while it limits LGBTQ (LGBTIQA+) individuals, it also can restrict heterosexual people, perpetuating the myth that they must continue to dress in traditionally feminine ways, such as wearing tight clothing and the colour pink, or in traditionally masculine ways, such as suits, polo shirts, and so on, to avoid being accused of mislabelling themselves or misleading others.

“Having these instructions on how to be part of a “community” … leads to many feeling like they do not belong anywhere. ”

Overall, fashion in queer culture has become a multifaceted tool for expressing identity. Clothing should continue to accentuate a person’s confidence and convey their personal style. As fashion develops, we must ensure that fashion becomes a way for everyone in their chosen community to feel empowered to express their own unique identities authentically.

Lifestyle

Whilst some have found it comforting that their ‘queer’ style has been acknowledged through celebrities and the press, it has arguably also had its downfalls. As previously mentioned, labelling this style as ‘queer’ can transcend from something celebratory to stereotyping. This creates societal expectations for queer individuals to conform to a specific look in order to fit in with their desired group. This suggests that a femme woman may feel compelled to change her own style into a more overtly ‘queer’ style to have her sexuality acknowledged. This shows that whilst fashion brands are celebrating queerness, they are unconsciously marginalising them into a subcategory instructing them to dress a particular way. Having queer fashion identified as something different from typical masculine and feminine styles is limiting as it compromises the authenticity of personal expression. It contradicts the message of fashion becoming a form of self-expression and is instead a form of group identity.

So what happens to those who do not want to dress in an overtly stereotypical style? Not following the ‘queer dress code’ could lead to them feeling excluded from their own community by not looking ‘gay’ enough. On the other hand, if they don’t conform to the traditional patriarchal dress code, they may feel rejected by their community for not being ‘straight’ enough. Having these instructions on how to be part of a “community”, such as implemented by Vice, leads to many feeling like they do not belong anywhere.

Ve-gains: a vegetarian or vegan’s guide to protein By Anna Boyne “But where do you get your protein from?” – the question every vegan or vegetarian has been asked time and time again. It’s usually accompanied by a concerned look, or even surprise that after years without consuming meat you haven’t keeled over from malnutrition. It is in fact possible to lead a healthy and active lifestyle with a primarily vegan or vegetarian diet. From an early age, we’ve been taught that protein is essential for the human body. It’s needed for growth and repair of body tissues and is especially important for healthy muscles and bones. Adults who aren’t especially active are advised to eat roughly 0.75g of protein per day for each kilogram they weigh. This equates to 56g for men and 45g for women of average body weights (75 and 60kg respectively).

Illustrations by Jocey Neligwa

Beans, beans: good for your heart... Beans and chickpeas are natural protein sources which also packed with fibre. Most types of beans contain about 15g of protein per cooked cup. They work really well in curries, chillies, soups and of course, on toast. Chickpeas are often used to replicate tuna mayo. They can be mashed up with mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice and garlic powder to recreate the fishy texture and taste.

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Average intakes of protein in the UK are above this recommendation. Nonetheless, here is a comprehensive guide to hitting your protein targets.

Tackling tofu Most people tend to turn their noses up at tofu. When first bought, its squidgy texture and absence of flavour can be very intimidating. But tofu is one of the most versatile foods. Once you master how to cook it, tofu can become a protein-packed staple of your diet. Tofu comes in two forms: firm or silken. Firm tofu has less water in it so it can more easily absorb flavour. It’s best to first press tofu to get all the moisture out. After being marinated, it can be baked, fried, or grilled. Shredding tofu is a great way to infuse it with even more flavour. By simply using a cheese grater, you increase the tofu’s surface area. After adding a marinade, cook until crispy. This is great in wraps and stir-fries.

Lentils Lentils are a staple of many cuisines in the Indian subcontinent, Western Asia, and the Mediterranean. They contain 18g of protein per cooked cup and half your recommended daily fibre intake. As well as curries, salads and soups, lentils are a great alternative to minced meat in lasagnas or cottage pies.

Silken tofu is something bought in cardboard packaging and has a long shelf-life. A really great way to sneakily use silken tofu is blitzed up with milk and nutritional yeast, to replicate cream used for pasta sauces or soups. It can even be the key ingredient for vegan desserts like cheesecake or chocolate mousse.

Disclaimer: This piece deals with nutritional information and there are mentions of the UK government’s advisory nutritional intake for men* and women*.

Unexpected protein superpowers Although its name may sound off-putting, nutritional yeast is surprisingly high in protein. It contains 8g of protein per 16g (about 3tbsp). It’s also a source of vitamin B12 found naturally in animal products but can be difficult for vegans to incorporate into their diet. Vitamin B12 supports bone health, red blood cell formation, energy levels, and mood. Nutritional yeast has a slightly nutty or cheesy taste, so it’s really tasty when used as breadcrumbs, mixed into a creamy sauce, or added to a tofu scramble. Unlike many other grains, quinoa is a complete source of protein meaning it provides the body with all the amino acids it needs. It contains 9g of protein per cooked cup. Swapping it for rice or using it as a salad base can be an easy way to incorporate more protein. Soy milk contains the highest amount of protein compared to other plant-based milks and often comes fortified with other vitamins and minerals. It contains 6g of protein per cup, compared to 1g for almond milk and 3g for oat milk. And it’s almost always the cheapest option.

Why eat fake meat? Now this can sometimes be a controversial topic. Why would you opt for alternatives attempting to replicate the taste and texture of meat? Surely, that defeats the point of going vegetarian or vegan – especially since so many of these alternatives are very far from the real thing. However, many people who choose to stop eating meat still love the taste of it. Thankfully in 2024, meat alternatives are readily available in almost all supermarkets. Aldi’s Plant Menu range deserves recognition for its huge range of products available at very affordable prices: ‘Spiced Kebab Pieces’ contain 20g protein for 66p per serving ‘Pulled BBQ No Pork Chunks’ contain 19.5g protein for 66p per serving ‘No Chicken Peri Peri Pieces’ contain 18g protein for 95p per serving

Supplements Protein consumption does vary based on activity levels. Athletes, bodybuilders, and marathon runners would be recommended to eat 1.2 to 2kg of protein per day for each kilogram they weigh, compared to 0.75g for sedentary people. In these cases, protein supplements may come in handy.

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Surprisingly, oats are high in protein as they contain 5g per half a cup. This added to 100g soya yoghurt, and a splash of soya milk can be a breakfast of 10-15g protein - the perfect way to start your day!

Some great vegan bars include: Trek protein flapjacks (£1 each with 9g protein) Misfits (£1.83 each with 15g protein) Shreddy (£1.48 each with 13g protein) Helping people hit their protein without the bitty texture sometimes associated with powders, clear protein has become popular in recent years. It instead resembles fruit squash and comes in many different flavours to try. MyVegan clear protein contains 10g protein for £1.25 per serving. Hopefully, this guide has inspired you to make some simple swaps, try new protein sources, or get a bit more creative in the kitchen. And the next time someone asks where you get your protein from, you’ll know the answer.

Something to look out for is that not all alternatives are high in protein, as manufacturers prioritise replicating the taste and texture of meat instead. For example, Aldi’s ‘Salt and Vinegar No Fish Fillets’ contain only 3g protein per serving. In the same vein of thought, many meat alternatives are incredibly processed. Beyond Burgers is one of the best-tasting vegan alternatives, could easily be mistaken for a medium-rare beef burger and contains 20g protein per patty. But the ingredients list is long. It’s also high in sodium which can cause problems for people with high blood pressure.

By Leacsaidh Marlow

The Multiverse – Madness or Material?

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Pop culture is saturated with references to parallel universes or ‘the multiverse’. So frequently do our screens and books depict the existence of multiple worlds and existences beyond our own, but how likely is this possibility in real life?

As it turns out, many scientists would support the theory of a multiverse – although perhaps not in the sense that Marvel superheroes see it. No evidence has thus far been found which indicates the existence of any universes outside of the one which we inhabit and perceive, yet multiple modern scientific theories rely on this potential to explain many areas in cosmology and quantum mechanics which as yet aren’t understood. It’s important to note that being able to travel between alternate universes in the way that, for example, Spiderman’s multiple parallel egos do, is incredibly unlikely – but the possibility that these parallel egos do exist is far more likely. A theory called ‘inflationary cosmology’, which explains how the universe expanded rapidly following the Big Bang, has also been used to suggest that this ‘inflation’ could repeat exponentially in the same manner, forming many parallel universes.

“multiple modern scientific theories rely on this potential to explain many areas in cosmology and quantum mechanics”

Illustrations by Massimo Giachino

All of these universes would not be visible to us, and may not have the same scientific properties, such as physical laws, that ours does. Furthermore, Everett’s 1957 ‘Many-Worlds Interpretation’ implies the existence of multiple worlds in the same space and time that our universe inhabits. His interpretation holds up against many quantum mechanical theories and can even be utilised to provide solutions to the ‘measurement problem’ (the issue of applying quantum rules to large systems like our universe) and issues of randomness in scientific observation.

“This is undoubtedly a fascinating concept but also potentially a very scary one.”

This interpretation pertains not just to physical laws though – it is also applied to social understandings of parallel universes. By this understanding, there could be a separate ‘version’ of you in each parallel existence – living all the lives that you could’ve lived in this one if you had made different decisions. This is undoubtedly a fascinating concept but also potentially a very scary one. For many, the act of making decisions, especially large ones, can be paralysing. Often we are aware when deciding, for example, which university we wish to go to, that the choice we make is going to irrevocably change our lives. But what if it is true that a vastly different universe may exist, with a different ‘you’ living a different life, all because you decided to buy strawberry ice cream instead of chocolate one Thursday evening? It becomes infinitely harder to make these smaller decisions because you’re aware that even the tiniest of choices may set you down an immeasurably different life path.

Chaos Theory is a branch of study regarding underlying patterns and mathematical laws in seemingly ‘random’ systems. One aspect of this discipline is the Butterfly Effect, in which a small change in one state of a system can produce large changes in a later state. Often this term becomes used instead in a social context, to describe how tiny alterations in our own lives put us in significantly different situations further down the line. Very frequently, we find ourselves thinking about the people in our lives and how we’ve ended up becoming close to them in unexpected or unconventional ways. Someone who laughed over having the same pen as you in your year seven History class, may still cycle to Sixth Form with you when you’re both eighteen; someone from your accommodation block in first year sends you a card for your nineteenth birthday, and later will help plan your twentieth; someone who you saw around campus countless times without speaking to, now holds your hand as you walk down the street.

A term coined recently by the media as the ‘Invisible String theory’, referencing a ‘red thread of fate’ in East Asian folklore described in Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre; “It is as if I had a string somewhere under my left ribs, tightly and inextricably knotted to a similar string situated in the corresponding quarter of your little frame”; and later Taylor Swift’s invisible string from her album ‘Folklore’. The term has been used to suggest that the important people in your life were always meant to be there, and every little decision you made in your life up until the point you met them was somewhat ruled by determinism. Whether or not you believe in ‘fate’ or ‘destiny’, or instead believe that your choices are entirely your own, it’s certainly still an influential concept that your day-to-day decisions may shape who you marry, or who might still be your best friend in 40 years.

“current theories paired with ongoing mathematical and physical research may well provide a very compelling argument for the existence of realities separate from that which we can discern. ”

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“what if it is true that a vastly different universe may exist, with a different ‘you’ living a different life…”

Scientists are largely unsure if there is any empirical way to test for the existence of universes external to our own – given their very nature would make them unperceivable to those who inhabit another – so their existence may never be more than speculation. However, current theories paired with ongoing mathematical and physical research may well provide a very compelling argument for the existence of realities separate from that which we can discern.

Thus, the various theories which suggest the existence of parallel universes may not only be integral in our understanding of physical and mathematical laws, but also in our perception of decision-making and the importance of the choices which we make. The discussion, therefore, holds both scientific and philosophical weight.

Nujabes – The Godfather of Lofi Hip Hop Illustrations by Clara Wodny

As a student and young person who constantly soundtracks their life, music is my best friend. During one of those late-night last-minute assignment struggles, I discovered the sounds of the late Japanese musician, Nujabes. The laidback jazzy hip-hop beats transported me back to my trip to Japan and before I knew it, my hands were typing, and my head was bopping to his rhythms. I had stumbled upon gold.

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Jun Seba (Nujabes spelt backwards) was a DJ, composer and record shop owner born in 1974 in Tokyo, but unfortunately passed due to a car crash in 2010. After opening Guinness Records in Shibuya, Jun began producing beats and even launched a record label called Hydeout Productions. He has released numerous singles and two full-length albums during his lifetime, but a third album was released after his death and he has since been recognised as a pioneer of lo-fi hip hop. Feather, Blessing It, and Beat Laments the World are some of his jazz-inspired beats that uncovered a completely disparate side of hip hop to me. Encompassing everyday melancholia and yet still beautifully encouraging a state of peace and optimism for life, his music is in my opinion, the perfect accompaniment to the contradictory human condition.

“his production prompts us to listen to sounds the way he does, to listen into how Nujabes hears the music” His instrumental mixes and projects take inconspicuous samples and rather than altering their original sound, Nujabes produced emotive melodies around them. As I write this, I am listening to my favourite track, Lady Brown (feat. Cise Starr), in which Nujabes samples Luiz Bonfá’s The Shade of the Mango Tree. What I love is that rather than changing or overpowering his samples, his production prompts us to listen to sounds the way he does, to listen into how Nujabes hears the music.

By Sana Pethurupillai

The artist’s auditory aesthetic started to gain global traction after soundtracking Manglobe’s cult anime series Samurai Champloo, a show which possesses the unlikely combination of samurais and hip hop culture in feudal Japan. Nevertheless, it went on to become a great indie success and propelled his genre blending instrumentals to the world. In particular, his flowy, nostalgic track Arurian Dance, featuring a motif sample from The Lamp is Low by Laurindo Almeida, became one of his most famous songs to date, with various 1 hour YouTube loops of the song gaining millions of views.

“particularly students like me who have found lo-fi hip hop as a musical sanctuary in stressful times”

Although Nujabes never got to see his legacy grow, his spirit lives on in the beats he created and has inspired. The magic of his music lies in the mellow instrumentals which attune to any given moment, and perhaps this is why it gathers such a wide range of listeners. His signature style became the building blocks for one of the most listened-to sub-genres by all, particularly students like me who have found lo-fi hip hop as a musical sanctuary in stressful times. Whether walking through a crowded street, reading a book in a café, or cranking out an assignment at ungodly hours, Nujabes’ unique sense of artistry and emotional sincerity shine through his songs, comforting me amidst the burdens and uncertainty of human life. Rest in peace, Nujabes.

the last dinner party

By Kira O’Boyle

I hate to admit that TikTok has become my most effective source for discovering new music and new artists in recent years, with the question “Have you heard that song that is all over TikTok?” appearing in conversation way more than I would like. But in the case of 5-piece, London-based band, The Last Dinner Party, this is very much an expression of an amazing new discovery. The band’s first ever official single, Nothing Matters released back in April 2023, has found itself in circulation on TikTok, a love song with a blend of classic rock and the theatrical vocals of lead singer Abigail Morris. I then found myself in a rabbit hole that I was very happy to be in.

“Perfectly exploring the themes of power and insecurities in the song, the visuals brilliantly mirror the operatic, musical-esque craft of the band” Already building a legacy, The Last Dinner Party are on track to become one of the biggest bands of not only 2024 but the decade. Following the suits of the likes of ABBA, Florence Welch and Kate Bush, The Last Dinner Party is destined for greatness, but it is their own emotional drive and musical talent that has established a path of explosive ballads for the band. Awarded with BBC’s Sound of 2024, the first guitar band since HAIM, and Brit’s Rising Star Award 2024, all before they released their debut album, ‘Prelude to Ecstasy’, I can imagine their success will only keep growing, becoming one of mine, and I’m sure many others, favourite new bands.

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Their single Sinner is a beautiful curation of their musical talents. The eruption of the piano into the piercing guitars and the perfect blend of harmonies shows there is no limit to the composition and direction of their music and has led to a series of high-energy and passionate live shows, which the band has become renowned for. Their unique approach to music does not just stop at their sound, the quintet put great effort and craft into not only their music but their aesthetic. Live videos of the band draped in luxurious gowns, velvets and lace, and sumptuous stage presence to accompany their baroque-rock style is something unlike anything else in the industry currently. The music video for their single Caesar On A TV Screen released on the 4th January 2024, showcases the band’s very own whimsical adaptation of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. Perfectly exploring the themes of power and insecurities in the song, the visuals brilliantly mirror the operatic, musical-esque craft of the band, whilst the visuals for Nothing Matters explore a glamorous yet gothic portrayal of their now-famous love song.

However, their success has led to criticisms of them potentially being an industry plant. Confirming that they are in fact not a manufactured product, but a hard-working band that met at university, paving their way through small venues, makes them only more commendable. Their ability to compose a perfect blend of rock, glamour and literary theatrics and present this in every aspect of their artistry, is unique and fresh.

“I then found myself in a rabbit hole I was very happy to be in”

Love Letters

By Christy Clark & Natalie Howarth

Dear Letterboxd,

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It doesn’t seem a long while since watching a film was to reckon with the battle, somewhere down the line, have I seen this before? The advent of Letterboxd didn’t just solve this problem decidedly, it created a collaborative social network where love, hate, and indifference toward film can be discussed on a global scale. No matter the niche-ness of your opinion, there’s a good chance someone, somewhere, shares it; there’s also a good chance you’ll run into a few hot takes you might never have considered. Whether discussing the latest blockbuster with your friends, looking at the Global Film Rankings, or reading a review from a user across the globe, Letterboxd has widened the scope of film, fostering many a community in doing so.

Illustrations by Ed Farley

It is a celebration of film in its entirety – mainstream, indie, box-office bomb, critical darling – an invitation to converse with a community of like-minded people no matter what your favourite film is. Users are even tasked with the excruciating task of picking their four favourite films. Hint: it’s near-impossible and never, ever, set in stone. The platform’s surge in popularity over COVID – it now boasts over 10 million registered accounts – is a testament to the film industry’s continued popularity in the modern day. In an era where film is changing drastically, Letterboxd is proof that people still love film enough to download an app and log the films they watch – or even spend many an hour reading about the passions of others. Whatever is next for film, Letterboxd will be right at the heart of it. For all the communities it has brought together, the reviews written, comments left, and the overwhelming passion for film that seeps through it, Letterboxd, you are a revelation.

Love and thanks, Christy Clark

Dear Richard Linklater’s Before Trilogy, The cobblestone streets of Vienna, the autumnal breeze of Paris and the sunkissed scenes of southern Greece seen in Before Sunrise (1995), Before Sunset (2004) and Before Midnight (2013) have taken me on a cinematic journey that I will never forget. Exploring the reality of love in the modern and postmodern age, you have taught me the complexities of relationships during our time, with each film loosely representing the Good, the Bad and the Ugly, that transcends relationships. Mr Linklater, this trilogy of films will be my Roman Empire forever. Love in the modern age is an overcomplicated matter in reality and when brought onto the screen, feelings are exaggerated and hyperbolised. Your characters are romantic at heart and you prioritise minimalism in the plot, favouring dialogue of conversations that explore notions of time, the sense of self, life and death and love. You characterise Celine and Jesse in a way that makes them so irresistible and loveable: the romantic and the romantic disguised as a cynic who drops his act in front of the camera. Reflecting on the beauty of the narrative odyssey of the Before trilogy, the chemistry between the serendipitous lovers from the beginning that sparks an instant connection through their tender dialogue is bittersweet: you have woven a tapestry that speaks to the very essence of existence which me is love. Celine and Jesse’s love story is transcendental and awe-inspiring, something I wish to experience at least once: as two souls on a train bond and wander through the streets of Vienna at night, engaging in beautifully scripted conversations. Moving to Before Sunset, filmed nine years after Before Sunrise, the two reunite when Jesse is on a book release tour in France and Celine drops by and the pair embark on a wander around Paris before Jesse has a flight to catch, discussing what their lives have been like without seeing each other for almost a decade.

This film indicates the natural chemistry your characters have and how organically they work together as a pair: this film is arguably the best of your trilogy of films as it feels like a deeper work of art, dealing with the complexities of adult life and the nuances in communication. The shift from a romanticised to a realist view of their relationship is stark here as both of them fail to meet in Vienna when they promised to – this leads to Celine’s absolutely heart-breaking monologue in the taxi: “for me, it’s better I don’t romanticise things as much anymore. I was suffering so much all the time.” A mature but hard thing to hear as a Celine myself. Moving onto your final chronicle Before Midnight, this one broke my heart. Since rekindling their relationship, Celine and Jesse are on a holiday in Greece with their two children. The film feels reminiscent of an Eric Rohmer film, unlike the first two, as they reflect on the tribulations of life and love, expressing how they view their weakening relationship, resulting in Celine telling Jesse she no longer loves him. In the final film, they reconcile. The Before trilogy will forever have a place in my heart as it is an honest work of modern, realist cinema that really does make you believe love exists. Thank you.

Love from, Natalie Howarth

Beyond the Red Carpet:

Examining the Reality of Diversity in Film Award Illustrations by Vivika Sahajpal Ceremonies By Yasmine Medjdoub Following increased scrutiny of the deeply ingrained bias of award shows, have they become more inclusive in recent years? The glittering gowns, the tearful speeches award shows are a dazzling spectacle meant to celebrate the peak of artistic achievement. But beneath the glamour, a question lingers: Do these ceremonies champion true inclusivity?

Undeniably, there have been strides to push diversity. The hashtag #OscarsSoWhite, which erupted on Twitter in 2015, served as a wake-up call, forcing the Academy to diversify its voting body and implement new inclusion initiatives. However, to declare the Oscars inclusive would be disingenuous. While POC nominees are slightly increasing, wins lag. This paints a picture of open doors with uneven steps inside. Despite progress, like Parasite’s ground-breaking win in 2019 as the first foreign language film to be awarded Best Picture, Michelle Yeoh’s win in 2023 as the second woman of colour, and Halle Berry’s 2002 win, the first Asian woman in history to win Best Actress, the numbers tell a different story. Out of 469 director nominations in Oscar history, only 8 were women, and a mere 3 have ever held the Golden Award - just one of those being a woman of colour. In 2009, Kathryn Bigelow became the first woman to conquer the Best Director category. Over a decade later, Chloe Zhao made history again, becoming the second woman and the first woman of colour to claim the title. Jane Campion joined their ranks in 2022.

Announced in 2020 as part of the Academy Aperture 2025 initiative, the Academy instituted new representation and inclusion standards for Best Picture eligibility, marking a significant step towards a more inclusive Oscars. Academy President David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson stated, “The aperture must widen to reflect our diverse global population in both the creation of motion pictures and the audiences who connect with them. The Academy is committed to playing a vital role in helping make this a reality.” While this is a step in the right direction, it can raise some questions. Are we genuinely valuing diverse voices, or are we simply ticking boxes?

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The Oscars, the Emmys, the Golden Globes - these institutions have long been criticised for their homogenous nominee and winner lists, perpetuating a narrative of white male dominance in the industry. But in recent years, a wave of change has seemingly swept through, with increased diversity in nominees and winners. So, have these ceremonies embraced inclusivity in recent years, or are they still prejudiced?

These wins are commendable but are mere whispers in a system desperately needing a systemic overhaul. In 2009, Kathryn Bigelow became the first woman to conquer the Best Director category. Over a decade later, Chloe Zhao made history again, becoming the second woman and the first woman of colour to claim the title. Jane Campion joined their ranks in 2022. These wins are commendable but are mere whispers in a system desperately needing a systemic overhaul.

Recognising how deeply ingrained biases can unravel even the sincerest attempts at addressing inequalities is vital. When a nonwhite actor wins, it’s often attributed to the ‘narrative’ of diversity, diminishing their talent and implying their victory is solely due to external factors. Conversely, white winners are rarely questioned; their success is a natural outcome of their performance. This casual racism, which appears every award season, reminds us that true inclusivity requires dismantling not just institutional barriers but also the deeply ingrained biases that shape our perceptions of artistic merit. Award shows can be captivating, but true inclusivity goes beyond surface-level representation. It requires acknowledging uncomfortable truths and taking action towards systemic change. We can’t settle for token gestures; we need to ensure that opportunities are equally accessible and celebrated for everyone. Only then can these awards truly reflect the diversity and brilliance of our world.

Exploring Creative Minds:

Illustrations by Vivika Sahajpal

By Alyana Fatima

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In the vast landscape of digital entertainment, two games stand out as bastions of creativity and personal expression: Minecraft and The Sims. These titles, each unique in their approach, offer players unparalleled freedom to shape virtual worlds according to their imagination. But what does your choice of game say about your creative mind? Can gaming truly be viewed as a form of personal expression? And as technology advances, are people selecting their games based on game art? Let’s delve into these questions and explore the rich tapestry of creativity in gaming.

The Creative Canvas of Minecraft Minecraft, a blocky sandbox game, has captured the hearts and minds of millions worldwide. Its simple yet profound premise allows players to gather resources, build structures, and embark on adventures in procedurally generated worlds. From humble cottages to sprawling metropolises, the only limit is one’s imagination. Choosing Minecraft as your preferred game speaks volumes about your creative mind. It signifies an affinity for open-ended exploration and an eagerness to push the boundaries of what’s possible within a virtual realm. The game encourages experimentation and rewards players who dare to dream big, fostering a sense of empowerment and accomplishment. In Minecraft, players are not merely consumers of content but active participants in the creative process. The game’s robust building mechanics empower individuals to express themselves in unique ways, whether through architectural marvels, pixel art, or intricate redstone contraptions. The virtual canvas of Minecraft becomes a reflection of one’s creativity, a testament to the power of imagination unleashed.

The Art of Life Simulation in The Sims On the other end of the spectrum lies The Sims, a beloved life simulation franchise that places players in control of virtual people, guiding their lives, relationships, and aspirations. Unlike Minecraft’s focus on construction and exploration, The Sims offers a more intimate and personal experience, allowing players to craft detailed narratives and shape the destinies of their digital avatars. Opting for The Sims suggests a fascination with human interaction, storytelling, and the complexities of everyday life. It’s a game that invites players to inhabit alternate realities, exploring themes of love, ambition, and social dynamics along the way. Through customizable characters, homes, and environments, players can project their own identities and values onto the virtual canvas, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. The Sims embodies the idea of gaming as a form of personal expression, offering a platform for players to explore their creativity and empathise with the lives of their digital counterparts. Whether orchestrating elaborate family dramas or pursuing ambitious career paths, every decision serves as a brushstroke on the canvas of virtual existence, shaping the narrative in profound and unexpected ways.

Through the art of gaming Gaming as an Artistic Medium As technology continues to evolve, the visual aesthetics of games play an increasingly significant role in shaping player preferences. The emergence of stunning graphics, immersive worlds, and evocative art styles has expanded the palette of gaming as an artistic medium, attracting players drawn to the sheer beauty and craftsmanship of virtual landscapes. In recent years, we’ve witnessed a growing emphasis on game art as a driving force behind player engagement and immersion.

The Evolution of Gaming Communities and Platforms

The Ever-Evolving Landscape of Creativity in Gaming

Beyond the games themselves, the communities that surround Minecraft and The Sims further highlight the depth of creativity and personal expression within gaming. Online forums, social media groups, and fan sites serve as virtual hubs where players can share their creations, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects with like-minded individuals.

In the end, the choice between Minecraft and The Sims reflects more than mere preference—it offers a glimpse into the intricacy of one’s creative mind. Whether constructing towering skyscrapers in Minecraft or crafting complex life stories in The Sims, players find a medium for self-expression and exploration unlike any other. As technology advances and game art becomes increasingly sophisticated, the boundaries of creativity in gaming continue to expand. Players are drawn to experiences that not only challenge their skills but stir their imaginations and touch their hearts. In the digital realms of Minecraft and The Sims, creativity knows no bounds, inviting players to embark on endless journeys of self-discovery and expression. In the end, whether you choose to build, create, or simulate, the true beauty of gaming lies not only in the pixels on the screen but in the boundless depths of the human imagination. As we look to the future, let us embrace the transformative power of gaming as a medium for personal expression, innovation, and connectionone block, one sim, at a time.

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Minecraft’s vibrant modding community, for example, has produced a staggering array of custom content, ranging from new gameplay mechanics to entire worlds inspired by popular franchises and historical landmarks. These user-generated Titles like Ori and the Will of the Wisps, creations not only extend the longevity Gris, and Journey are celebrated not only of the game but showcase the boundless for their gameplay mechanics but also creativity and ingenuity of its player base. for their breathtaking visuals and emotive storytelling. For many players, the Similarly, The Sims boasts a thriving comchoice of game is influenced not only by munity of content creators who develop gameplay mechanics but by the aesthet- custom clothing, furniture, and building ic appeal and artistic integrity of the vir- materials for fellow players to download tual world. Minecraft and The Sims, while and integrate into their games. This colnot traditionally lauded for cutting-edge laborative spirit fosters a sense of camagraphics, possess a timeless charm and raderie and shared ownership within the artistic merit that transcend technical lim- community, transforming The Sims from itations. Their iconic visual styles, charac- a solitary experience into a dynamic platterised by pixelated blocks and whimsical form for collective creativity. animations, evoke a sense of nostalgia and simplicity that resonates with players of all ages.

Street Art: From An Act of Vandalism to A Catalyst of Urban Regeneration Written & Illustrations by Clara Wodny

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While public art in its various forms has existed as long as humanity has, the rise of modern street art as we know it can be traced to the 1960s and New York’s graffiti boom. Street art conventions and styles have shifted and evolved over time, but many long-standing traditions, including street art as a form of political protest or social commentary, continue to be central to the medium. One form of street art graffiti was long considered to be vandalism, and to negatively affect the area it was in because of associations to gangs and other illegal activities. Without proper permissions, artists could be prosecuted and property owners could be fined if they failed to cover up or remove graffiti. However, in more recent years, it has become clear that street art actually adds value to cities and communities, and, when done correctly, can be an extremely useful tool for urban regeneration. Thus, the rise of government-funded and commissioned street art has grown across the world, as many cities have experienced the real value and benefit it can bring to the overall economy. In Toronto, Canada, governmental funding and support of street art has turned the city into a vibrant community hub, and contributed greatly to the city’s tourism industry. In relatively recent history, the Toronto government waged war on graffiti and street artists, culminating in 2011 when former mayor Rob Ford led a clean-up campaign, touring the city with a high-pressure water hose in hand. However, when street art is deemed ‘vandalism’ and police action is taken, this only encourages artists to double down, giving them the ammunition and motivation they need to rebel against the orthodox mould that the city tries to fit art into. Eventually, another government agency in Toronto realised it would be cheaper to hire street artists for specific purposes than to continually prosecute them and fine building owners who failed to cover up un-sanctioned graffiti. Thus, StreetArtToronto (stART) was born, and the program has been beneficial in more ways than anyone predicted. In addition to reducing vandalism in the area, stART programs help to beautify previously unkempt areas, which makes the city safer and increases active modes of transportation such as walking and cycling. As a result, Toronto’s street art scene has flourished into a lucrative tourist attraction, bringing much needed revenue to the city and local businesses.

“many cities have experienced the real value and benefit it can bring to the overall economy.” The power of street art is also prevalent in the story of Medellin, Columbia’s Comuna 13 district. Long known for being an unsafe and drug-ridden city, Medellin became recognised as the murder capital of the world by the 1990s. Following the death of the city’s most notorious drug lord, Pablo Escobar, in 1993, many neighbourhoods were able to make positive changes and begin turning their reputation around. However, the Comuna 13 district fell even further into violence, chaos, the drug trade, and even military conflict. 2002 brought Operation Orion (the eradication of a number of illegal militias), which began the city’s long and tumultuous revitalisation process. In 2011, a 384-metre orange-roofed escalator was installed in the district, serving to connect the various levels of the mountainside community with the rest of the city, providing much needed accessibility and a greater sense of safety and connectedness.

“There are many examples across the world of artists collaborating on welcoming outdoor spaces”

Throughout this process, street art has played an imperative role. Artists began decorating the city as a way to grapple with their history, tell their stories, and demonstrate hope for the future. As the murals began to increase in number and popularity, the local government decided to encourage these developments by commissioning more work and paying street artists to help beautify and uplift the area. The city’s transformation has allowed for the welcoming of other forms of street art, including dance troupes and various performance artists. Similarly to Toronto, the city’s vibrant landscape of murals and storytelling has given rise to tourism, which is huge for a city that was ranked as one of the least safe places in the world, even as recently as 10 years ago. In addition to brightening spaces, creating safe spaces, and boosting tourism, street art is also a great way to foster connection and outdoor activity within communities. There are many examples across the world of artists collaborating on welcoming outdoor spaces, such as playgrounds and parks, for community members to gather and get active.

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“Artists began decorating the city as a way to grapple with their history, tell their stories, and demonstrate hope for the future.”

One such organisation is StreetArtBall, a non-profit based in Italy that aims to combine art and sport by giving new life to outdoor basketball courts. Beginning in 2020, the program was implemented as a symbol of rebirth following the devastating and isolating Covid-19 pandemic. These public courts were already places of relationships and interaction, and the addition of interactive art gives them even more purpose and possibility, especially as people slowly begin to come back together after long periods of isolation. The success of street-art endeavours on larger scales, such as these, has inspired multiple meaningful projects in smaller urban areas as well. Close to home, the city of Leicester has undergone a street art transformation over the last several years. Since summer of 2022, it has boasted the tallest mural in Europe, spanning 82 metres across the side of St. George’s Tower. Street art has become so popular in Leicester, that in 2017 the city started the Bring The Paint festival, a week long event in Leicester city centre that welcomes street artists and enthusiasts from all over the world. The festival, which has taken place in 2017, 2019, and 2022, will return in 2024 from May 20-26th. As the street art scene and community continues to grow, so do its possibilities. With increased access to funding and commissions of public art, there is potential to bring this vibrant tradition to even more communities across the world. One of the best things about street art is its accessibility- it incorporates art into everyday life, reaching people that may otherwise never interact with these types of creations. Street art is a demonstration of art’s best qualities: it brings beauty to desolate places, builds community, and encourages new and positive growth.

Illustrated Couture: A Collection

Illustrated by Clara Wodny Photography by Thomas Acratopulo Pictured: Grace Court-Jones (left), Tapiwanashe Nkomilo (right)

Illustrated by Jocey Neligwa Photography by Thomas Acratopulo Pictured: Josh Brown

Illustrated by & Photography by Vivika Sahajpal Pictured: Rachael Proud

Illustrated by & Photography by Vivika Sahajpal Pictured: Ishani Mehta

Illustrated by Ed Farley Photography by Vivika Sahajpal Pictured: Jake Goodson

Illustrated by Ed Farley Photography by Thomas Acratopulo Pictured: Jess Couchman

CRITICS

Illustrations by Jocey Neligwa

…Baby One More Time: 1990’s MUSIC RECOMMENDATION

reviews

By Ellie-Mae Davies

A visually stunning film with a beautiful atmosphere, Wong Kar-wai’s Fallen Angels is the work of an auteur who focuses on the exploration of love, memory, time, and urban existence in many of his films. His distinctive trademark stylistics, including the use of the ultra-wide lens and a colour palette antithetical to the gritty scenery and plot, combine to create an absolute work of art. As a neo-noir crime film that also cleverly functions as a comedy, two intertwined plots delve into Hong Kong’s underworld, pre-Handover Hong Kong,

and follow an ex-convict who is on the run from the police. Kar-wai’s abstract and fuzzy cinematic style, which often distorts the scene through out-of-focus visuals to create moments of tension, is backed by a hip-hop soundtrack which adds to the liveliness of the Hong Kong neon lights, lit during night and in the darkness found in the criminal underworld. In Fallen Angels, Kar-wai uses a lot of intertextualities from his previous works, predominantly Chungking Express (1994),

, as He Qiwu (Takeshi Kaneshiro) appears in both films – with some similarities that are constantly up for discussion among Kar-wai aficionados. As a film that so eloquently captures the beauty that can be found everywhere, even in a crime-riddled city, Kar-wai manages to depict the universality of feelings. For a film about hitmen and running away from authorities, the themes of love are incredibly resonant and provide warm moments of catharsis and comfort.

Assassin’s Apprentice : 1990’s BOOK RECOMMENDATION By Amy Child

RECOMMEND... The 90s are iconic for so many of its genres – rock, pop, indie – with there being so many fantastic songs to choose from. I’ve gone with the pop princess of the 90s, Britney Spears, and her dance-pop anthem …Baby One More Time. Released as her debut song in 1998, and featured on her debut album with the same title the following year, …Baby One More Time was written by Max Martin and produced by Martin Rami when Britney was just sixteen.

The song saw immediate success, becoming a chart-topper in several countries, including the UK, and has gained a legacy since having sold 10 million copies worldwide. Famous for its iconic keyboard riff in its intro, …Baby One More Time is one of Britney Spears’ most popular songs of all time.

I especially love Britney’s ‘baby’ vocals, showing off her lower vocal range, mixed in with the implementation of wah-wah guitar riffs and pop-esque drum patterns. Also, its music video was revolutionary for its time and pushed Britney’s career into motion. The MTV music video featured Britney dressed in her iconic schoolgirl outfit, dancing and singing in various scenes throughout a school. The video also has 902 million views on YouTube and is still loved to this day!

By Natalie Howarth

Published in 1995, Assassin’s Apprentice by Robin Hobb is a certified classic of the fantasy genre. This book is the first in the Farseer Trilogy, which follows the life of a royal bastard called Fitz. If you’re looking for fast-paced, action-packed fantasy, Assassin’s Apprentice isn’t for you. However, if you love slowly unfolding political intrigue, warm, historical vibes, and characters to deeply connect with, look no further. Hobb’s approach is steady, compassionate and intimate, as much a character study of Fitz as a work of epic fantasy.

Hobb’s characters are all richly complex and deeply human, and Fitz is no exception. Reading him grow from a young age and experiencing his life alongside him, it’s impossible not to become attached to his character. I adore him, and Hobb’s unique writing style, which immerses you completely in his point of view. Whilst this book contains the sense of events being set in motion which are explored in more detail later in the trilogy, it doesn’t feel like it exists purely to set up the later books.

reviews

Fallen Angels (1995) dir. by Wong Kar-wai: 1990’s FILM RECOMMENDATION

It’s definitely a satisfying story on its own. (Although, if you love it and want more, you’ll be happy to hear that the Farseer Trilogy begins an even bigger series called The Realm of the Elderlings). And if you like dogs, well, so does Fitz. Assassin’s Apprentice features multiple furry companions, as well as a type of magic which involves developing bonds with animals. What’s there not to like?

‘All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault)’: MODERN MUSIC RECOMMENDATION

reviews

By Hannah Walton-Hughes

Poor Things is one of those films that you simply must see on the big screen. When a mad Scottish scientist (Willem Dafoe) brings a suicide victim back to life, he creates Bella Baxter (Emma Stone), a 35-year-old woman operated by the undeveloped brain of a child. Through Bella’s eyes, we see the world reimagined as a wondrous utopia, ripe for exploration. The fairytale-esque visuals are completely fantastical, injecting colour, distortion and life into her travels around Lisbon, Paris and London.Bella’s voyages are a constant sequence of discovery,

eventually leading her to become a sexually liberated woman. In a career-defining moment, Bella’s voyages are a constant sequence of discovery, eventually leading her to become a sexually liberated woman. In a career-defining moment, Emma Stone illuminates the complex character of Bella Baxter, portraying her childlike innocence and wonder perfectly – her performance is simply entrancing. In Yorgos Lanthimos’s quintessentially challenging style of filmmaking, the film is often downright uncomfortable for viewers, particularly during Bella’s encounters with the many conformities of ‘polite society’.

Lanthimos’ black sense of humour translates into some outrageously funny dialogue, particularly from Mark Ruffalo’s character Duncan Wedderburn. A smooth-talking and alluring cad, Wedderburn is marvellously portrayed by Ruffalo, causing the entire cinema to periodically explode into laughter with his dynamic charisma. Poor Things is undoubtedly my film of the year. It is exciting, exhilarating, excruciating at times, and overall, a feast of cinema. In a time when the box office is dominated by remakes and biopics, Yorgos Lanthimos is certainly keeping the magic of cinema alive and fresh.

Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney : MODERN BOOK RECOMMENDATION By Ana Balanici

Taylor Swift: a rare example of an artist who can write a song that lasts ten minutes, without it getting boring. ‘All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version)’ is the story of a broken relationship. It integrates verses from the original 2012 song with brand-new, deeper sections of lyrics, allowing the song to adopt an almost plot-driven narrative. Like many of Swift’s re-releases, this song shows how her voice and lyrics have matured over time.

The raw emotion introduced in the original song is made more acute by heartbreaking lyrics such as “You held my lifeless frame”. Figurative language is used in Swift’s songs to add emotion to the story being told. A poignant example in this song is “check the pulse and come back swearing it’s the same, after three months in the grave”. This links a haunting image of death to the relationship in the song, introducing darker connotations that were not present in the original release.

Musical texture is significant in this release. A dramatic drum roll often builds into the lyrics when a new section of music begins, adding to the intensity of lines like, “There we are again when nobody had to know”. The rich texture and dynamics then drop out (sometimes abruptly) when we reach more reflective moments, such as “it’s supposed to be fun, turning twenty-one”. To see such an iconic song adapted into something even more authentic and memorable is a real treat for lifelong Swifties!

By Emma Burnett

Rooney’s third novel, Beautiful World, Where Are You (2021), focuses on the evolving relationships of its four main characters: Alice, Felix, Eileen and Simon, as they try to navigate adulthood. Anyone familiar with Rooney’s writing will know that she is brilliantly skilled at navigating human relationships and dynamics in an engrossing way, and this book is no exception. Despite the simplistic plotlines and rather slow pacing at times, one cannot help but be drawn to these fascinating (and at times unpredictable) characters.

Told from several different points of view and more notably, through the emails that Alice and Eileen send each other, the novel is beautifully and ingeniously written. The characters are achingly realistic and their attempts to find purpose and meaning in their existence is extremely impactful. However, for a book which relies heavily on character and personality, I did feel like the backstories of a couple of the main characters were slightly less developed than their counterparts, which I think could have added more to the story.

reviews

Poor Things Review – Five Stars : MODERN FILM RECOMMENDATION

But in fairness, with four main characters and at least three dynamics being explored in a relatively short book, that might have been difficult to achieve and this aspect didn’t take away too much from my enjoyment. There is a good reason for all the praise Rooney receives for her distinctive voice and style, and I would highly recommend this book.

We’re reviewing the new Mean Girls movie! By Harriet Rothwell-Inch

Tina Fey is at it again, throwing us right back into the wild jungle of American high school, ruled over by the Queen of Beasts herself: Regina George, and her loyal subjects: Gretchen Weiners and Karen Smith.

REVIEWS

Already grossing over $76 million at the worldwide box office, the new movie musical adaptation has split critics and fans of the franchise alike. I’ll admit that I was dubious when the 2024 remake was announced. Having grown up on the original 2004 film starring Lindsay Lohan and Rachel McAdams, and listened obsessively to the 2018 Broadway Musical soundtrack, I was worried that the revamp wouldn’t hold a candle to its predecessors, but I really enjoyed it! It was bubbly, it was modern, it was socially relevant, and above all, it was really, really fun! If you approach it as a stand-alone film, appreciate it for what it is, and judge it based on its own merits, it’s incredibly well done. While the new film does pay homage to the original - (the student body personifying animals during the song ‘Apex Predator’ mirrors the original mall fountain scene) - this version of ‘Mean Girls’ has been completely Gen Z-ified. While some hard-core stans might find this insufferable and unnecessary, I think it’s an excellent modernisation of a classic chickflick. The pop culture references are up to date and relatable to younger generations, the prevalence of social media usage is fully integrated into both the storytelling and the cinematography, and the costume department have clearly done their research on what’s trending in the fashion world. The production team fully embraced ‘camp’, and the majority of the musical numbers from the staged production were adapted really well into film. The standout number for me was ‘Someone Gets Hurt’, the song where Regina takes Aaron back during the Halloween Party. It was a holy trinity of wow! The direction, the choreography, the lighting… the entire scene blew my mind and it was a brilliant way to pay homage to the Broadway Show.

Illustrations by Edward Farley & Jocey Neligwa Tina Fey has clearly taken on board the criticism she’s received over the years for her writing choices in the original screenplay and the new script reflects that. For one thing, with the increasing acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community nowadays, the homophobic jokes that were woven into the fabric of the original film have been dialled back tenfold. Janice’s sexuality is no longer ambiguous and, rather than being the butt of any jokes, her lesbianism is celebrated. The production team have fully leaned into the ‘camp’ nature of musical theatre, and nothing demonstrated this better than Jaquel Spivey’s performance as Damian. Despite the character supposedly being “too gay to function”, Spivey absolutely slayed the house boots down (I’m sorry, there’s no other way to describe it).

One element of the new Mean Girls film that has received consistent criticism, both positive and negative, is the casting choices. The casting of Renée Rapp as Regina George and Avantika as Karen is absolute genius. Rapp’s portrayal of the famous Ice Queen has received nothing but praise from fans and critics alike; her vocal prowess is incredible and her characterisation of Regina oozes desirability - everyone either wants to be her, or be with her! Avantika’s Karen is nothing short of adorable, and she has stolen the hearts of people worldwide with her fantastic rendition of the musical number ‘Sexy’. TikTok videos of young women recreating her iconic ‘dance break’ choreography have taken the popular social media platform by storm and I’m so here for it!

The casting of Angourie Rice as Cady Heron, however, has been met with a wall of negative feedback. The main gripe of most people, including myself, is: why would you cast someone in a film musical who can’t sing the part that she’s given?! This was particularly obvious in ‘Revenge Party’ where she was so far off the original key that it was painful. In comparison to the original Broadway recording, her performance in that number was disappointing. I will say that, in general, Rice portrayed Cady’s character progression from clueless new starter to cold, cunning Plastic very well, but her singing - or lack thereof - overshadowed her performance so much that it’s all anyone can talk about!

Do I think the new ‘Mean Girls’ was a perfect film? No. Do I think it’s a perfect musical adaptation? Definitely not. But, did I enjoy watching it? Absolutely! It completely lifted my spirits and had me laughing and cringing in just the right amounts. I’d even go as far as to say this new rendition of Mean Girls might have made “fetch” happen!

REVIEWS

I met most of my friends through Musical Theatre, and we all have similar - if not identical - opinions on this. My friend, Matt, was particularly vocal about his frustrations: “It’s really infuriating! Surely the priority for your lead character in a film musical is that they can sing? They clearly did it with the others: Regina was immaculate, and Damian, Janice and Karen were also excellent. But Cady’s singing was just horrible!”

If I had to sum up the vibe of this movie, I’d have to quote my friend, Emily: “The whole thing felt like an episode of Glee!” And she’s so right! While the majority of the musical numbers were excellently placed and directed, there were some (specifically ‘Stupid With Love’) that just felt out of place and appeared to have been shoehorned in for the sake of having a song there.

I also thought that the director’s choices in certain numbers didn’t do a good job of making it look like they were actually singing. For example, in ‘World Burn’, Renee Rapp is belting powerful top notes, something which takes immense effort and control, yet her body language and facial expression are so relaxed it makes the lip syncing painfully obvious. “I want to see veins popping out of their foreheads, come on!” my friend, Fiona, exclaimed when we discussed this after coming out of the cinema. Only Auli’i Cravalho, who plays Janice, looked like she was singing live and it made all the difference - for all I could tell, she was!

Impact Investigates

By Vivika Sahajpal, Arabella Mitchell, Serena Mehdwan, Ainslie McDonald and Alex Paszkowicz

Over the past months, Impact’s Investigation team have been exploring the relationship between our University’s students and the bouncers who work across Nottingham’s nightlife venues. . With interviews from an ex-bouncer, and the owner of Nottingham’s infamous student club, Ocean, this investigation aims to shed light on the impact that security teams have on the student population. Key statistics collected by our team further show the different experiences that members of our community face. Students in our community deserve to feel safe when they go out and this Investigation aims to open a conversation into steps this industry could take to improve the student experience.

INVESTIGATION

Impact’s Vivika Sahajpal spoke to an ex-bouncer who worked in the midlands in the late 80s and 90s, gaining a perspective on the differences between his profession during his career compared to those of the present. The main difference he referenced was the lack of training and its impact on the performance of the bouncers. The process of becoming a bouncer today involves a method of assessment, but a local firm recruited this ex-bouncer while he was training at the gym where he boxed. He noted that the main priority for establishment owners at that time was protecting the premises as opposed to the clientele with the primary criteria for bouncers being their intimidating appearances and ability to win in a fight situation. Another key point he remarked on was the way drugs were regarded by establishment owners, stating that they ‘saw recreational drugs as part of the weekend experience’. This not only meant they weren’t often confiscated at the door but also meant there was no specific protocol surrounding spiking and submissive drugs. This meant that because they couldn’t easily distinguish between individuals who had been drugged and those who were very drunk, they had to treat them all the same, which was usually to find their friends so that someone would be responsible for looking after them. Identity-based conflict was another aspect he spoke about; he discussed that racial slurs and discriminatory terms were used quite casually and were tolerated at the time, emphasising that they were deliberately used to be derogatory. The behaviour of other bouncers that he worked with was also something he mentioned, discussing the way certain bouncers deliberately antagonised the clientele, focused on appearing intimidating and even looked forward to a fight. Although Ocean bouncers are for the most part, more lenient with students, Andy did mention that some actions will have you kicked out straight away. These include but are not limited to violence, drug use and extreme behaviour. Andy states that unlike many other Nottingham nightclubs, Ocean will not kick you out for being too drunk. Instead, you will be taken to the medical room and looked after by the amazing well-being team.

A lot of his experience revolved around learning on the job and he discussed the seriousness of the job in terms of their potential to hurt people when working in security. The seriousness of this job can have a direct effect on the students who frequent the venues where bouncers work.The comparison between the issues arising with bouncers when this ex-bouncer was employed compared to now is an important development, especially in understanding the way bouncers affect the student experience. Impact’s Arabella Mitchell had every student’s dream of interviewing Andy Hoe (the owner of Ocean nightclub for anyone that does not know) to discuss the role of bouncers at Ocean (and then go off on many different tangents). Andy explained that bouncers were crucial to the success of Ocean. The club boasts a security team of eighteen people, four female. Unlike other clubs, Andy stated that he looks for bouncers who will communicate, have a laugh and most importantly ensure all students are safe. Like all nightclubs, Ocean hires their bouncers through a third-party security organisation. As the two have been in business for so many years, both know what the other is looking for, further benefitting Ocean as they can easily change bouncers if needed. As Andy outlined, students will stay here until they are ready to go home safely. Andy also noted that on many occasions, he and other members of the team have helped many students seek help through their respective Universities or other organisations that further aid them. Andy also stated that ‘incidents are few and far between’. The most common complaints and issues regarding bouncers are students expressing discontent after not being allowed to enter. Despite this, in the few serious incidents, Andy noted, all were dealt with quickly and effectively, with the necessary sanctions. In one incident, when a staff member reacted inappropriately to a student, they were let go on the spot. Ocean also has a close relationship with the Nottinghamshire police force. Although they are not called frequently, they can deal with issues as they arise. Andy claims that in Ocean’s case, this relationship is even more attainable as it is only open on Wednesday and Friday.

The relationship between students and bouncers Design by Jocey Neligwa

Overall, in Andy’s twenty years at Ocean, he could count on one hand, the amount of serious issues with bouncers. Andy expressed his admiration for the security team at Ocean and their ability to ensure they treat students like students, allowing them to have another chance and more importantly have fun!

As we are sure many of you would want to know - Did we ask Andy about the Ocean carpet? Of course, we did. You heard it here first - the ocean carpet does not have chlamydia!

“A local firm recruited this ex-bouncer while he was training at the gym where he boxed”

Broader concerns exist over racial profiling within club culture, which trickles down to the local Nottingham scene. One student stated that some of their friends have been actively excluded due to clothing choices even though white beneficiaries have not. Queerphobia is also mentioned as a problem with the most notable example being the distinct lack of security at a Crisis Pride night despite that not having been an issue on other occasions.

Ainslie Mcdonald’s analysis shows that bouncers have the potential to do good, 65.8% of people had positive encounters with bouncers, but this is amidst numerous claims of obvious wrongdoing with an uncomfortable 78.9% of people professing bad experiences. Inappropriate physical interventions are commonplace, bouncers have been accused of pushing, dragging, grabbing and generally being unpleasant.

INVESTIGATION

Our Investigations team circulated surveys within the student community in order to collect data on student’s nightlife habits and interactions with bouncers. The survey asked students a series of questions varying from the amount they go clubbing the types of experiences they face by security teams. The data pulled from the survey was able to shed light on the relationship between our students and the security teams which keep us safe.

That unpleasantness extends to verbal harassment and outright discrimination too, with one informant being told to ‘f*cking move’ and others being targeted due to their gender, race and sexuality. One example details a bouncer making verbal advances and another sexual harassment. These claims appear again and again throughout our research to the point where one respondent mentions that they expect some kind of misconduct to occur - this is a damning indictment of a group that ought to establish care and prevent harm.

“52.6% expressed sometimes feeling confident with the measures in place and 21.1% feel they are inadequate.” 40

INVESTIGATION

In the discussion of bouncers and security personnel, one must address the negative treatment that women in particular face, (which is by no means exclusive to but disproportionately so). Impact’s Serena Mehdwan found that 20% of the negative interactions people experienced concerned sexual or sexist problems, also overlapping with the 54% of physical and 45% of verbal problems reported. They included patronising or misogynistic comments and aggression in the face of rejection.

The noted lack of security is mirrored by the vast majority of our respondents, 52.6% expressed sometimes feeling confident with the measures in place and 21.1% feel they are inadequate. The general ambiguity surrounding the efficacy of bouncers is concerning given that they’re the very people who are supposed to ensure safety especially whilst intoxicated.

Additionally, bouncers and security personnel have historically been male-dominated teams. Over the past decade, there has been an increase in the number of women working in these spaces, though these numbers are still a minority. Suggestions to Impact’s ’s investigation question of what could be done to improve security teams often suggested having more female bouncers. Comments included ‘having a female bouncer near the women’s toilets’, ‘more women’, ‘they’re fine in breaking up fights but as a woman I don’t feel bouncers care as much and I would never rely on a bouncer if I needed help’, ‘the bouncer was more inquisitive with IDs with the women in our group compared to the men […] they questioned the women more’.

Advantages of more female bouncers include women perhaps feeling safer with people on the team they would feel more comfortable approaching with a variety of issues. Female bouncers have been noted for empathy and people skills (not exclusive to them but frequently seen) which are exceptionally important in what is a customer service job. Important skills also include efficient and not just quick, problem-solving, being able to de-escalate tense situations, communication skills and the ability to build a rapport with clients.

However, pre-conceived notions about women’s capability in these spaces unfortunately lead us to have to question whether female bouncers would carry the same authority, or gain the same level of respect, particularly from male customers. Importantly also, physical strength to break up fights, etc, is a vital requirement and is successfully carried by many male bouncers. Perhaps meeting standard training requirements is the most important aspect, and there are merits to teams having a range of skillsets from members, which can be effectively used together. Therefore, a balanced mix of both male and female bouncers on security teams would likely be the best option.

“No specific protocol surrounding spiking and submissive drugs.”

INVESTIGATION

Through these interviews and the data we’ve collected, it’s apparent that the way bouncers interact with students has varied both over time and across different clubs and areas. Some issues that arose in the 80s, such as identity-based harassment, are still issues that persist in the interactions students have with bouncers today. On the other hand, issues such as the normalisation of drugs in clubs and even the encouragement of them (as spoken about by the ex-bouncer) are something which has massively changed (as demonstrated by the zero-tolerance policy on drug usage that Andy Hoe spoke about having).

Through this investigation, we discovered the severity of some of the experiences some students have had with bouncers. These are not only a cause for concern in terms of student welfare but also should lead to a re-evaluation of the mentality that the security teams of clubs should have. Both the ex-bouncer and Andy Hoe emphasised the need for a focus on protecting the clientele of the venue and ensuring they have a positive experience. To minimise more occurrences like the ones we discovered, this mentality must be ingrained in Nottingham clubs.

“Ocean hires its bouncers through a third-party security organisation.”

A PERSONAL COMEBACK THAT SILENCED A DOUBTER By Ben Stacey

Everyone loves a comeback story, right? Ben Stacey will know this more than anyone, as he speaks on his life-changing experience in Thailand… I’ve been fighting since I was 15. Boxing, Muay Thai, MMA - I just love martial arts. I wake up thinking about it and spend hours awake at night, visualising combinations. It’s essentially just deeply rooted in my psyche as a person. So when I was told I should quit, it broke my heart.

sport

Let me set the scene. I’d switched from boxing to Muay Thai when I was 18 and spent hours of every day perfecting techniques, watching old stadium fights from the heart of Thailand, and most of all, dreaming about training there one day. I’d spent a lot of my life, feeling misunderstood and brutish when I would come into school with black eyes. But Thailand was a beacon for people like me. Muay Thai is their national sport and fighting is a huge part of their culture. I just needed to go.

“I tell him, and myself, that you’re wrong” I made it over in November of 2022. I was at the lowest I’d been in my life at the time. I was always down, I hadn’t exercised in months and I was smoking a lot of cigarettes. I found myself in Thailand unable to even think about training. But after a week or so I finally plucked up the courage to go. I headed to south Phuket and had no gloves, no mouthguard and no idea what to expect. I could tell I had fallen right into the deep end. The sound of the pro fighters cracking pads echoed around the room like gunshots. I was surrounded by fighters who were serious ready to fight and in Thailand not just for the training. Regardless, I was quietly confident, prepared to give it my all and initially felt like all my expectations were being met. But after five rounds of pads, I was completely spent and felt terrible. Worse yet, we now had to spar.

Illustrations by Alfie Johnson

After getting pummeled by everyone in the ring, I noticed the trainer watching over us shaking his head. He asked me how long I’d done Muay Thai for, and I told him. He shook his head again and told me that I should leave. That I shouldn’t even be there. I tried to laugh it off, thinking he was joking, but as I kept training I could still see that shaking head. He said again as I was leaving - you’re no good. You shouldn’t train any more.

“I was surrounded by fighters who were serious - ready to fight and in Thailand not just for the training” I was crushed. My confidence took a massive hit and it took me four months of being home again to step into a gym. For a lifelong lover of martial arts, it was worse than an injury, I was questioning a massive part of my identity. When I eventually got back to it, I trained a few times a week and started to enjoy it again. I still had no confidence in myself though. I had to make a choice. Either I was going to flip a switch or give this up for good… As I’m writing this now, I’m in the best shape of my life, training for a fight in March and confident in my abilities. I train twice a day. To put it bluntly, I would beat the stuffing out of me a year ago. The training is hard, and I still get pummeled a fair amount. But something is different. Every time I want to quit, I think of that Thai trainer. Shaking his head. You’re no good. I tell him, and myself, that you’re wrong. Watch me prove you wrong. That switch in mentality has been one of the biggest comebacks in sports I’ve ever had.

THRIVING ON A BUDGET: COST-EFFECTIVE TIPS TO MAINTAIN A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE By Charlotte Deville

Illustrations by Clara Wodny

An active and nourished body, coupled with a clear and energised mind is essential for optimal well-being. This is particularly pertinent for university students who want to perform academically, socially, and in the many other areas we often gave to face all at once. Luckily, and contrary to common misconceptions, we can protect and enhance our health and energy levels without a hefty price barrier. Impact’s Charlotte Deville details some suggestions to do just that…

Meal Planning and Meal Prep To minimise food waste and spending on unnecessary items, simply take a pen and paper or open your notes app to create a Monday-Sunday plan of meals you will eat that week. This will streamline your shopping list to only the necessary ingredients, and for those cooking for one, it is advisable to coordinate meals that use the same ingredients to ensure everything gets used. Also, making multiple portions of the same recipe at once is economical for both time and money and ensures you do not reach for unhealthier convenience foods when short on time!

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SLEEP, STUDENTS & SPORT Illustrations by Jocey Neligwa

For an activity we spend around a third of our lives doing, the importance of sleep receives far less attention than it deserves. Sleep is as essential as eating and exercising for physical and mental wellbeing, but is neglected far more. Prioritising good sleep can have a positive effect on nearly all aspects of daily life. Impact’s Tom Southgate provides everything you need to know.

Sleep and Students

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Students are simultaneously stereotyped for not getting enough sleep, or for sleeping all the time, both of which can cause long-term health problems. Between 70% and 96% of university students sleep fewer than eight hours on weeknights, with over half earning fewer than seven hours. It’s safe to say that the ‘sleepy student’ stereotype is a rather ill-informed generalisation! However, sleep deprivation runs far further than student halls and university houses; this is a national problem. Recent studies show that the British public averages over an hour less than the recommended quota – at around six hours and thirty minutes – so why do most adults fail to reach the heralded eight hours on a regular basis?

ByTom Southgate

Sleep deprivation can be caused by many factors, from stresses and worries to our upbringing and temperament, many of which are hard to manage. Your body’s circadian rhythm functions on a set loop of around twenty-four hours, meaning going to bed and getting up at fixed times can help to control the circadian sleep phase. Good sleep hygiene involves developing a regular routine, to align the body’s circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycle. Finding good sleep habits is the first step to improving sleep quality, with your sleep routine starting well before you get into bed. There are a few golden rules to follow, many of which are easier said than done! Firstly, try to avoid blue light from electronic devices for at least one hour before bed. Blue light alters the circadian rhythm by tricking the brain into thinking it’s still daytime. Limit alcohol consumption during evenings. Alcohol can reduce melatonin production, the hormone that controls our sleep-wake cycles, and disrupt sleep patterns. Above all, try to develop a consistent sleep routine which involves finding time to unwind every evening. This could involve listening to soft music, or podcasts, or trying ‘beditation’ – guided meditation for sleep – to relax. Mindfulness can help with managing worries and stresses, and reframing unhelpful thoughts, to make us feel more at ease. What works best will vary from person to person. But by controlling the controllables, you can take small steps to prioritise sleep, to reap a wide-range of benefits.

“It’s safe to say that the ‘sleepy student’ stereotype is a rather ill-informed generalisation!” 45

Sleep and Cognition Sufficient sleep quality and duration are essential for our well-being. Sleep is important for various aspects of brain function, with cognition, concentration and productivity all negatively affected by sleep deprivation. The two phases of sleep are rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM sleep. While non-REM sleep is critical for bodily recovery and growth, REM sleep is essential for cognitive functions such as memory, learning, and creativity. REM stages make up around 25% of sleep in adults, and get longer as the night goes on; shortsleep therefore reduces the time the body and brain have to recuperate and develop. The exact mechanisms behind the relationship between sleep, memory and cognitive function are unknown, but it is thought that specific synaptic connections that were active during awake periods are strengthened during sleep, allowing for memory consolidation, with inactive synaptic connections weakened. A 2019 study by Kana Okano et al. explored this link with the help of 88 chemistry students and wearable activity trackers. Sleep duration and quality for the month and the week before a test correlated with better grades, with sleep measures on a single night before having no effect. The key takeaway here is the importance of sleep consistency, on top of quality and duration, to improve academic performance.

“the greatest legal performance enhancing drug”

Sleep and Sports Roger Federer, Usain Bolt and LeBron James regularly acquired twelve hours of sleep per day, with ten hours at night and a two-hour nap. For Maria Sharapova resting was a top priority when preparing for major grand slams. Neuroscientist Matthew Walker has described sleep as “the greatest legal performance-enhancing drug”, increasing reaction times, muscular power and muscular endurance. Not only does sleep help to regulate hormone levels that are important for muscle recovery, but the release of human growth hormone (GH) also increases during sleep, needed for muscular hypertrophy.

A lack of sleep is also associated with increased injury risk, but causation with this is harder to prove. Sleep deprivation has been shown to suppress testosterone and growth hormone production, and enhance cortisol levels, which could weaken muscles and leave them more susceptible to injury. Whilst there are several other non-causal possibilities, the speed of muscle tissue repair and regeneration increases with adequate sleep.

Numerous studies have also found that short-sleep – fewer than the recommended seven hours per night – increases the risk of weight gain, with a 2020 analysis showing a 41% increased risk of developing obesity.

While the advice may be simple, achieving the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep per night is far less straightforward. Neglecting the importance of sleep threatens several areas of our health, but by channelling our inner Roger Federer, we can take small steps to prioritise sleep. By improving sleep duration, quality and consistency, our minds and bodies will have more time to rest and recuperate.

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“try to develop a consistent sleep routine which involves finding time to unwind every evening”

“The exact mechanisms behind the relationship between sleep, memory and cognitive function are unknown”

To compensate for a lack of energy, foods higher in sugar and fat may be craved, whilst fatigue may also reduce motivation to exercise, making it easier to skip physical activity. To make matters worse, the cumulative effects of long-term sleep loss are associated with increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. But can we sleep for too long? Excessive sleep in adults – over nine hours – was also shown to increase the risk of obesity, heart disease and high blood pressure.

UON’S CREATIVE WRITING Illustrations by Jocey Neligwa

Spring Crash

by Ed Farley

Winter was dying. Escaping the frost, the Christmas lights, the need to fill our time; we cut the brakes and got in the car. We both wanted to go fast. With your reckless driving, the windows were down, and the further we went, warmer was the air. The further we went, the bluer the sky. Would we make it out alive, once winter was in the rear view? The answer came when we crashed. That’s the thing with cut brakes, there’s never a safe stop. The dust settled. Unscathed and unrattled, you got out. Birdsong greeted you; spring had begun. Yet there I sat; seat belt jammed. Engulfed in flames, I watched the season go, your shadow fading to the distance. Back then, I yearned to reverse, wanting to go back, back there- to winter. It doesn’t work that way. Spring had invaded, time passed, life went back to its default setting, and so did you. As is the nature of the season, animals came to you in the field. They sniffed around, then they ran. Wincing in my pain, I became jealous of their survival instincts. I wish I had the same. I thought we were identical. Sun shines more now, I can see you were a wolf in sheep’s clothing, maybe even just a scarecrow. The others would make it through the season, but the jury was still out for me. As ivy grew, as moss congregated on the hood, as daisies peeked through rusted car door hinges; things grew on me and dressed my wounds. I pulled myself out of the wreckage. Spring was late for me, but still, it came. Like the deer, the lambs, the chicks before- I ran. Past the field, onto the path, was it the road less travelled? Who knows.

Spring’s Promise by Jess Couchman In the tapestry of life, we find, Spring’s embrace, a gentle kind. Faces turn towards the sun, seeking warmth, a new day begun. Each heart, a story to be told, In spring’s embrace, we all unfold. Like seeds planted in the ground, Dreams and hopes, are waiting to be found. With each bloom, a fresh start, A chance to mend a wounded heart. So let’s walk this path of spring, And find some joy in all the little things. For in the season’s tender glow, We find the courage to let go.

Ants stole my gloves

by Aldea Toth

Little specks of coal climbing into my throat. Smidgen of soot coating my teeth, My picnic blanket is overtaken. Blackmailed by footsteps following me down an alleyway. Spring is near. Like a slinky rolling down a hill, flopping bit by bit until it crashed into my picnic basket. clutch it, ants tug of war, a theft. I think they also got my scarf. At least it’s not cold anymore.

Editor-in-Chief: Lottie Murray Print Editor: Vivika Sahajpal Head of Online: James Hadland Deputy Online Editor: Thomas Martin Deputy Online Editor: Ariya Joshi External Manager: Shakira Hamilton

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Internal Manager: Esme Mckenzie Social Media Manager: Harriet Rothwell-Inch Welfare Officer: Charlotte Deville Artistic Director: Jocelyn Neligwa Head of Illustrations: Edward Farley Head of Images/Photography: Thomas Acratopulo Head of News: Hannah Walton-Hughes News Editor: Esme Mckenzie

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Campus News Editor: Harry Chapman Head of Investigations: Arabella Mitchell Head of Features: Evie Crossland Features Editor: Mike Wong Comment Editor: Megan Brown Head of Lifestyle: Eva Sutton Travel Editor: Alice Thébault

team

Science Editor: Leacsaidh Marlow Style Editor: Katie Sullivan Food Editor: Charlotte Bowers Head of Entertainment: Amelia Brookes Arts Editor: Natalie Howarth Music Editor: Ellie-Mae Davies

With Thanks to the Design Team:

Film & TV Editor: Christy Clark

vivika sahajpal

Gaming Editor: Alyana Fatima Head of Reviews: Hayley Lawson Investigations Editor: Alex Paszkowicz Reviews Editor: Amy Child Head of Sport: Vinay Patel Sports Editor: Ayman Ahmer Head of Podcasts: Jess Couchman Podcast Editor: Anna Boyne

Jocelyn Neligwa EDWARD FARLEY Thomas Acratopulo Alfie Johnson Clara Wodny Massimo Giachino

Photography by Vivika Sahajpal