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Month: February 2020

@pleasurres

Art in Mancunia: Pleasures

Written by harrythorfinn on . Posted in Arts.

Pleasures are a band that have been grafting in the Manchester music scene for a few years now.

Their Instagram (@pleasurres) is exactly what you would expect from an up and coming band: littered with photos from energetic shows, scribbled set lists and DIY posters for gigs at every Manchester venue imaginable.

Their scrappy and charismatic aesthetic is an obvious extension to the- well, scrappy and charismatic music they play. They describe their sound as, “the Mancunian pulse of dance and despair running through the reanimated corpse of punk.” This description perhaps warrants an eye roll, but don’t write them off as they’ve got a lot going for them.

Pleasures released an EP titled Tapeworm back in 2017, a handful of singles in 2018 and an EP, The Ditch, in December of 2019. The Ditch is perhaps their best work to date. It’s a compilation of old songs “that have been marinating in Barney’s basement in rehearsals”, they tell me.

Image courtesy of Pleasures

Playing together for four years now, they sound tighter and more assured than ever. “We’ve been honing our craft and working our way up from underage pub gigs to established venues”, they say. The band is made up of Miles Pillinger on drums, Alec Waters on bass, Barney Anderson and Casey Bell on guitar along with Sonny Baker Royle on vocals.

Regarding their creative process, they say that “we write all songs collaboratively, working on whatever ideas are in the room.” There is almost always a Bluetooth speaker kicking around in this room, as they’re inspired by a wide variety of music.

New York’s Parquet Courts are clearly a large influence, whose angular riffs and witty lyrics are echoed in tracks like ’12 inch’ and ‘Uh’. Yet Pleasures also have “a lot of influences outside of guitar music.” For example, Vince Staples and Kaytranada make appearances on a playlist attached to their Spotify page. Songs from Kendrick Lamar’s Untitled Unmastered slip in there as well. A curveball, although you can hear how Kendrick’s stream-of-consciousness style perhaps influences Sonny’s rapid ramblings about the streets of Manchester.

Whilst influenced by a range of music, Pleasures are still unashamedly themselves. They aren’t taking things too seriously and most importantly seem genuinely excited to be playing together. This carefree energy is mirrored in how Danny Devito’s mutated face graces their EP sleeve and how they sometimes play with large animal heads on. “It’s fun to make dumb or weird ideas a reality”, they say.

The Ditch EP is only the beginning. They’re already working on new material at Dead Basic studios, tucked away in the Northern Quarter. They say that getting the EP out is going to “make way for a new mutated Pleasures era.” Make of that what you will, but it undoubtedly sounds intriguing. We’re very excited to welcome Pleasures to the White Hotel on the 26th of March.

Why We Should All Eat Seasonally

Written by milodiduca on . Posted in Food & Drink.

Most people are aware that we eat sprouts and parsnips at Christmas, pumpkins at Halloween and salads in the summer.

However, far too many people see this as just tradition and not a result of how we are meant to eat: in harmony with the seasons using what the earth gives us. Although I was aware of eating seasonally, I rarely put it into practice until the start of uni in September. As a keen (vegan) foodie, I thought I’d christen my new bookshelf in halls with a cookbook. The book I ended up buying was the autumn/winter edition of Nigel Slater’s Greenfeast. This is the second installment of his pair of books on vegetable-based dishes to match the seasons. Studying that book has shown me a plethora of cosy culinary delights and got me hooked on eating seasonally ever since.

Being in tune with what’s in season can open you up to so many new vegetables and recipes you would have never thought of before. I had no idea how delicious and versatile celeriac could be until I tried it this autumn. I also found a better use for pumpkins than carving – eating them. They’re delicious in any kind of stew or simply roasted in a little bit of oil and despite popular belief, we are blessed by their presence for a lot longer than just October (the supermarkets would have you believe otherwise).

Coming into February, I’m now beckoning spring in with more verdant meals whilst still keeping with an overall winter theme. Eating seasonally has also created excitement about what the planet is going to grace me with in the near future.

Not only will you benefit by discovering new recipes and ingredients, but the ingredients you do buy will also be of better quality and less chemically processed. We’re not meant to eat peppers in December. Out of season veg is likely to be shipped in from halfway across the globe or of poor quality and grown with lots of chemicals. Try to look for English veg in supermarkets or treat yourself to a trip to a farmers market and discover the joys of cheaper, better quality produce for you that doesn’t need to be flown in from Peru.

If you’re unsure about what veg is currently in season, there are websites to help! Take Lifegate for example, they explain that February is the month of citrus fruits (tangerines, clementines, grapefruits, and orange). In terms of vegetables, February is also the month to showcase cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, artichokes, cauliflower, and sprouts. Pumpkins are also still seasonal to this time of year along with other root vegetables like turnips, beetroots and Jerusalem artichokes (a hybrid between a turnip and potato – deliciously steamed with butter and salt).

With air travel being a leading cause of climate change, we should all be cutting down on our flights. This goes for our fruit and vegetables too. 70% of UK land is for agriculture and England is good at growing crops. We should be supporting our local farmers and our planet by eating as little imported foodstuff as we can. Only 1% of foodstuff is transported by air, but this 1% counts for 11% of all carbon emissions. It seems only fair that we sacrifice our Kenyan green beans in January and patiently wait until it’s their time to shine in the UK.

Eating seasonally is a simple switch that we can all make to better enjoy food and simultaneously help our planet and farmers. There are tonnes of websites offering seasonality charts and an increasing amount of cookbooks dedicated to ‘seasonal content’ to help you on your way to happier, healthier eating.

So why not give it a try?

 

Authorised Press Shot

In Conversation with Matt Maltese

Written by Elena Meritxell Bradley on . Posted in Music.

Last interviewed by The Mancunion over a year ago, a lot has changed for Matt Maltese.

The heavy praise by critics and accumulating fans following his 2018 album Bad Contestant, has only increased with the release of second album Krystal.  Full to the brim with the witty cynicism that he is most loved for, this album gives listeners another welcome dose of the familiar musical motifs of layered harmonies and sinfully-catchy bridges. Following Krystal’s release at the end of 2019, we got a chance to catch up with Matt.

The soft-spoken, smiley 22-year-old explained that, differently to the full-fat wit of Bad Contestant, there was a conscious aim for Krystal to have “more sincerity”. Matt explained that this shift in sentiment presented a tricky task of preserving humour whilst also swapping “self-mocking for honesty”.  This departure from Alan-Partridge-style irony to honest introspection is most illustrated with ‘When You Wash Your Hair’ where the candid lyrics indicate Matt’s romantic toils without the familiar lacquer of self-deprecation. However, this familiar playful self-mocking is not all lost. In tracks such as ‘Rom-Com Gone Wrong’ and ‘Curl up and Die’, there are some cracking lyrics such as Matt summing up his heartbreak with “long baths, got cats, I’m crying when I’m smashed”, which sadly, we can all relate to.

Asking whether Matt struggled to perform such personal songs live, he explained that he found the process both “cathartic and therapeutic”. “Singing provides an opportunity to say to a mic what I can’t in person”, he remarked, suggesting that “the more embarrassed or ashamed I feel about a certain topic, the more I almost have to say it”. This coyness is perhaps reflected in Matt’s choice of what alcoholic beverage would represent his character, picking “a virgin piña colada, because it sounds funny”. When pushed to delve more deeply into this analogy, the singer concluded he wished he could be an espresso martini but felt he “didn’t have enough energy”, remarking playfully that he was realistically a “White Russian” as he was “not for everyone”.

In discussing the automatic comparison by many critics of Matt Maltese to Father John Misty (AKA Josh Tillman), Matt concluded that the “pigeon-holing was inevitable”. He acknowledged that both artists falling under the same “revived genre” of “self-centered, uber-revealing” male chanteuses. His awareness of the ever-dense and growing number of ‘male solo artists’ was refreshing, with him chuckling that the self-mocking approach is “really the only way you can sing as a white male in the 21st century”. When presented the same question Josh Tillman was asked about whether he preferred fans to have sex or cry to his music, Matt remarked: “Both? Probably not at the same time, definitely don’t want to encourage that.”

In exploring Matt’s opinion of other male solo artists, we asked him to imagine a scenario in which he was stranded at sea with three other frontmen. Matt was tasked with choosing who would be his partner in crime, who would be sacrificed for food and who would be thrown overboard.  In his first round, Maltese ate Sufjan Stevens who he reckoned “would taste really nice”, made Elliott Smith his companion and rather macabre-ly chuckled that he’d “Throw Jeff Buckley overboard, pun not intended”. With his second round, Matt ate the “younger and less tortured flesh” of Andy Shauf, lived out his days with Connan Mockasin and rather begrudgingly threw Thom Yorke overboard commenting “that doesn’t feel good, does it…”.

When discussing the singer’s inspiration and influences, Matt was asked about his dream dinner party in which he could invite three guests; dead or alive. “Leonard Cohen of course” was his immediate answer, which musically, is a link to Maltese that is very evident both in his own accounts and critical reviews of his work. “Nina Simone, in the later years when she was sassy”, was his second choice, followed by “Natalie Portman” on account of her being “very amiable, so intelligent and an amazing actress.”

When asked about how he found touring for Krystal, the singer commented that the “response to the album so far has been amazing, better than I could have hoped”, which is definitely a reflection on the adoring fan base Matt has cultivated with his social media presence. When discussing how social media could be used to bring fans closer to the artist, Matt laughed about the huge response to his viral tweet (pictured below), in which a fan rather hilariously misquoted his lyrics ‘pity shag’ for ‘the pita shack’.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3IE8keHjRV/

In turning to his Instagram (@matthewmaltese) and commenting on the fashion-forward nature of the singer, we asked Matt to rank several fashion trends on the scale of ‘just right’ to ‘criminal’. When confronted with crocs, Matt was conflicted. He didn’t mind “when dads wear crocs, sounds kinda good to me…” but made the distinction that for everyone else they’re “definitely criminal.” With the croc’s older friend, socks and sandals, Matt plainly decided “criminal”. However more positively, Matt championed turtlenecks and the Western trend of shirts, denim and bolo ties; but only due to the fact that “I’m that kind of person so I have to say yes”. In concluding the interview, Matt was asked to suggest who would most aptly portray him in film, to which he suggested: “someone better looking is key, probably Timothée Chalamet”.

Following the interview, Matt played live in the YES Pink Room, celebrating the release of Krystal. Evident in both his charming wit, stellar vocal performance, and faultless piano playing – Matt Maltese is one 22-year-old to keep an eye on.

Photo: Reece @ The Mancunion

In Conversation with Mae Muller

Written by Reece Ritchie on . Posted in Music.

North London up and comer Mae Muller returned to The Deaf Institute this week for her first headline show.

Muller’s latest release is a single called ‘Therapist’. The track is clearly inspired by Mae’s time on tour with Little Mix but still tinged with her authentic North London accent. She told me the track is mainly written to be the kind of song “she wished she could’ve heard at 15 or 16.”

As an artist, Mae has been complimented many times on her tongue in cheek songwriting, most prevalent on her track ‘Jenny’. When I asked where the ideas for her humorous writing style came from Mae had no clear answer: “I often get random bouts of inspiration”- whether on tour or just “walking her dog”, it seems her lyrics can come about at any time.

From her first singles through to her album and her latest releases, Mae’s music has evolved and changed quite drastically, yet still maintains the same core vocal sounds. When asked about her experimental career Mae stated the main reason for her changing style of production was largely due to the vast number of producers she had worked with in the past year. However, she was pleased to tell me that she’s found a more permanent producer relationship to build on and “is zoning in on the storytelling and being as genuine as possible.”

I was interested in Mae Muller because of her reputation – she’s often misunderstood to be a woman that hates men, rather than being seen for the powerful woman she is, who simply celebrates herself.

This was evident when I asked about the incorporation of gender-specific insults, typically aimed at women, being instead aimed at men in her music, flipping sexist remarks on their head. “Men have been calling women Wh**e or b*tch since the beginning of time”, she explained. “I’m gonna say what I want”. It is a powerful statement about being empowered and genuine even in a more mainstream spotlight.

Mae went on to humbly remark that a lot of this empowerment that her fans felt “came with learning how to celebrate herself”. This in itself was a type of “armour” she created after all the times she hadn’t stuck up for herself. To hear such an honest and open expression from an artist that had played massive arenas was refreshing and indicative of why her fans adore her.

This authenticity carries across to Mae’s life in all areas whether it be her performance, her social media or her music. She is very passionate about maintaining her North London accent in her music to ensure “it sounds like her”. This pride in her roots come from living in the same 1-mile radius her whole life as she told me.

Mae told me that she hopes to stay close as she grows, knowing in herself that “she can maintain her authenticity as she grows because it’s a priority”. This flavour is clear to see from her inspirations, ranging from Shade – recommended to Mae by her mother – to Florence and the Machine and Lily Allen.

Mae Muller sings
An action shot of Mae Muller at The Deaf Institute.

Mae was “so excited” to return to The Deaf Institute for the second time in a year, this time to headline. An impressive feat for any musician, the gig in itself was very enjoyable. It was clear that girls were the key makeup of Mae’s fanbase on the first floor of The Deaf Institute, with many young voices catching each and every word on the air and repeating them back.

Mae Muller is the embodiment of a new wave of female artists celebrating themselves in a way truly inspiring to fans. Women like herself and fellow pop icons Billie Eilish and Beabadoobee prove to young women every day that they can find a career in music if that’s what’s truly they desire. Not only that, but if they want to express themselves through pop music, they can do it their own way.

In terms of Mae specifically some new listeners may interpret her music as hating on men, as I hate to admit that I did, but as soon as you dive below the surface of her hooks you find an artist that is truly inspirational.

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Album Review: The Slow Rush by Tame Impala

Written by Bella Fleming on . Posted in Music.

The Slow Rush shows Kevin Parker making great music from within his formulaic Tame Impala box.

Since the release of Currents, Tame Impala frontman Kevin Parker has moved from writing music in his bedroom in Perth, Australia, to being one of LA’s biggest producers. Collaborating with the likes of Kanye West, Lady Gaga and Travis Scott, to name a few, Parker has truly become one of the most diverse and multi-talented producers in current music.

The fame of 2015’s Currents definitely launched the band into new heights of fame. It’s a record that has stood the test of time, and one that was hard to follow from. But, five years later, Tame Impala have given the world The Slow Rush – an album that feels very comfortably like Tame Impala but with an added freshness.

The Slow Rush is an album that sounds amazing. From start to finish the album flows without pause, taking the listener on some sort of warped psychedelic journey. Where Parker earns his name is in the attention to detail in everything he makes. Every note, instrument, and beat on the album has a unique purpose, and the collective sound is something far greater than most other artists in his field. What makes it even more impressive is that the album credits note that all the songs were written, performed and mixed by Kevin Parker.

Where the album falls short is on track ‘Instant Destiny’. The monotonous hook and vocals that open and carry the track are limited, with the same intense catchiness of an annoying pop song. Whilst the track itself isn’t terrible, it feels out of place within the rest of the much more intricate and thought out sound of the rest of The Slow Rush.

‘Posthomous Forgiveness’ is arguably the heart of this album. The gloomy prog-rock guitar mixed with the high-reverb vocals adds an intensity to this track, especially with the siren-sounding synth keys. The latter half of the track is a reckoning with Parker and the tricky relationship he had with his late father. The lyrics express a need for acknowledgement from his dad: “Wanna tell you ‘bout the time / I was in Abbey Road / Or the time I had / Mick Jagger on the phone”

‘On Track’ is perhaps one of the more emotional tracks on the album, with Parker singing “Strictly speaking, I’m still on track/Strictly speaking, I’m holding back.” The melancholic piano and emotive vocals resemble the catchy-yet-sad sound heard in the band’s infamous single ‘The Less I Know The Better’.

Whilst The Slow Rush is not an unexpected release from Tame Impala, it is still a brilliant record. Whether it’s the synth-heavy 80s sounding track ‘Glimmer’ or the utterly infectious album single ‘Borderline’, Parker manages to incorporate genres and push the boundaries within the box of his synth-rock identity.

4/5.

Photo: Mounsey @ needpix

Opinion: Local elections are key to climate action

Written by Sebastian Cousins on . Posted in Societies.

The world is on fire. The ice caps are melting. Yet, we have a government that is simply saying ‘we’ve done enough, let the market sort it out’. We have a Prime Minister who says he “doesn’t get” why we need to have a net 0% carbon country. And all the old parties are committed to an economic dogma that sees the world as simply a resource to exploit.

Other than joining the climate strikes, going vegan and not travelling by plane, what else can an individual do to effect change? Direct action works; the occupation of the John Owens building last year by People and Planet is evidence of that. An essential action that individuals can take is voting in local elections, particularly, voting Green.

It’s not a general election, nor does the result directly affect who’s in the government. But here’s the thing: local government affects you. They run local services, they provide spaces for the public to socialise in, they’re in control of green spaces. It’s not all just about bins!

Climate action needs to be more than individualised efforts to make change on individual levels. Change at this level, while important, allows governments and corporations to sit back and continue their destructive behaviours while citizens make massive efforts to change their daily habits. This, however, will not bring about the radical change we need to see in our energy, transport and waste systems.

Local elections are in fact essential to effecting change at the scale necessary to make a real difference.

In Manchester, public transport is a real issue. A city councillor with an approach of environmental concern would push for it to be made more affordable, especially for students and those who are not in education who rely on public transport to get to their jobs. Transport would also be more efficient, not just in getting from A to B but also in how it affects the environment around us. Improving Manchester’s public transport is a local issue that is reflected in the national New Green Deal that the Green Party have set forth.

In Manchester, there are 96 councillors on the City Council: 93 are Labour. Imagine what would be possible if there was an environment focused voice fighting the tide of uniformity and ensuring Manchester’s commitment to climate action. There would be more scrutiny, and by extension, democracy – scrutiny over the time spent criminalising the homeless rather than introducing carbon busting initiatives, for instance. Furthermore, there would be a dedication to getting things done. In Bristol, it was Green councillor Carla Denyer who declared the first Climate Emergency, which sparked a wave of similar declarations from councils, cities and countries across the world.

If you care about the environment, then send a message this May. To the City Council: enough is enough. And to our PM watching the results: wake up and listen. Kick the climate deniers and procrastinators where it hurts, in the ballot.

You can find Manchester Young Greens on Twitter @ManchesterYGs.

People and Planet UoM form alliance to remove BP’s influence over three universities

Written by Kate MacLachlan on . Posted in Societies.

People and Planet UoM have made plans to collaborate with the University of Cambridge and Imperial College London branches to fight BP’s influence over the three universities.

These universities are funded directly by BP through the International Centre for Advanced Materials (ICAM), which was set up by BP in 2012. ICAM is situated on the University of Manchester Campus and received 5 million pounds of joint funding from BP and Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) in 2017.

UoM People and Planet Secretary, Daniel Johnson, explained that “this funding is different from shares, this is funding BP gives the universities directly”. People and Planet say that this complicates the university’s ability to divest their shares in fossil fuel companies, as doing so would risk BP withdrawing their funding from the university.

“If we can get BP off campus then that means we have a better chance of getting divestment” said Treasurer Kayleigh Crawford.

People and Planet are a nationwide student organisation campaigning for universities to divest their investments in fossil fuel companies. They have been successful in pressuring almost half of UK universities to do so. However, the University of Manchester still invests in fossil fuels, although their website says that, “We are at the forefront of the search for solutions to some of the world’s most pressing problems, including carbon reduction and climate change, and we are pioneering the energy systems of the future so that we can continue to heat our homes, light our buildings and travel”.

BP’s direct funding of the university makes it difficult for People and Planet to achieve their divestment aims. “The shares the University has are just the tip of the iceberg, really”.

BP’s funding currently goes towards research into reducing corrosion of oil pipes and platforms, which Kayleigh and Daniel argue is problematic as it directly benefits BP and the fossil fuel industry.

“[The research makes] sure the pipes don’t leak, which isn’t a terrible thing… but it’s the principle of spending all this time researching that, rather than making wind turbines more efficient or something” said Daniel.

“Or [on] focusing on how we can transition.” added Kayleigh, “They’re essentially creating all these jobs in the petroleum industry when that industry needs to start shrinking. They’re trying to expand it”.

Plans for the alliance between Manchester, Cambridge and Imperial are still being discussed and finalised.

“We’re still in the planning stages, but the idea would be simultaneous actions in all three universities” said Daniel. He cited previous protests at university careers fairs, such as at Sheffield University in October last year, which have been successful in removing BP from the campus altogether.

However, Kayleigh explained that their main aim is a more long term goal. She explained that BP’s contract with the university is set to be renewed in 2022. “By the time it comes to renewal there will be strong foundations for all the groups… to do big actions to make sure it doesn’t get renewed”.

These actions will potentially include the three groups joining forces at a single university campus to boost numbers and increase the group’s impact.

Photo: Julius Silver @Pixabay

Is it possible to travel sustainably?

Written by lucycluttonbrock on . Posted in Lifestyle.

With climate justice becoming increasingly important as climate-related disasters continue to worsen around the world, the question of whether travel and sustainability are compatible is more relevant than ever.

If you have ever worked out your carbon footprint (the WWF calculator is a pretty good start) you will know that flights are a huge contributor to carbon emissions. While more and more people are trying to supplement flights with train and boat journeys, this isn’t always an easy way to get to your destination. However, there are ways to be more environmentally conscious on your next trip by taking steps to reduce any impact on the environment and offset your carbon emissions as much as possible.

So, the answer is that travelling more sustainably is possible. You can travel and still be aware of your environmental impact to try and reduce it. Avoiding any negative impact on the environment is not possible without avoiding transport completely, but many travellers are beginning to find other ways of reducing their impact on the environment. Although it may sound cliché, the beauty of travel can be in the journey itself, so it doesn’t matter if it takes a little longer to get to your destination; for example, train journeys can offer some beautiful views, time to talk to other travellers, and will have a lower carbon footprint then flying.

A growing number of countries are supporting a sustainable tourism ethos. However, many of these destinations are not particularly student-budget friendly. Lake Garda’s Lefay Resort and Spa offsets an impressive 100% of its CO2 emissions and draws 60% of its energy from renewable sources, boasting the first spa in Italy to be given Ecocert’s “Ecological Spa certificate”. But when room prices come in at around £500 a night, these sustainable resorts may not be the most student-friendly, or budget travel choice.

While some sustainable hotels might be a little on the pricey side, there are many other destinations supporting a greener tourist economy. Vienna lives up to its name as the “green capital city”, with its 2000 parks, 1300km of cycling trails, and new Green Taxi scheme of 370 hybrid and gas-powered taxis, making for a beautiful and green holiday choice which will be more affordable.

However, until more countries are on board with national green initiatives and reaching their targets of carbon neutrality and renewable energy, the responsibility continues to fall on the individual, a problem that continues to face many who want to travel while minimising potential contributions to the environmental crisis. One step to overcoming this is to check whether accommodation and tour providers are certified as sustainable wherever you travel. The best sign of this is if they are certified as ‘sustainable’ by a GSTC-Accredited Certifying Body.

If you are conscious about reducing your negative environmental impact, one of the best ways to work towards sustainable travel is supporting local businesses and communities. Eating local food and buying local products (avoiding any made from threatened natural resources), using local laundry services and looking out for local tour guides are all great ways to do this and will give you the ability to make the most of experiencing a new culture.

It’s also important to be aware that not all countries will have easily accessible recycling systems, so travelling with a reusable water bottle and shampoo bars (those found in LUSH which come in a tin which makes them great for travelling) avoids chucking away single-use plastics. Making sure to stick to designated paths in rural areas helps minimise damage to the natural environment.

The disastrous effects of climate change around the world are undeniable, as Australia continues to battle bushfires. I know I still have a way to go towards becoming a sustainable traveller, but if we all try to be a little more travel aware, being more conscious about the impact we have on the environment, more awareness will spread. Whilst flights can be difficult to avoid, and are particularly damaging to the environment, making these small changes whilst away on holiday is a step in the right direction.

These sustainable travel tips and many more can be found on the GSTC guidelines for travellers.

Photo: @pxhere

Review: Parasite

Written by Michal Wasilewski on . Posted in Film.

The first foreign-language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, in addition to last year’s Palme d’Or, Parasite has taken the film world by storm.

Not many films deserve praise like this unbelievably intelligent blend of drama, thriller, and dark comedy. Already crowned best of all-time by online film community Letterboxd, it is finally out in British cinemas. 

South Korean director Bong Joon-ho is a familiar face in Hollywood, having directed Snowpiercer (2013) and Okja (2017). Yet Parasite, which marks a return to his home country, is surely the most fascinating movie of his career. 

The Kim family lead a bleak life in one of Seoul’s poorest districts. They consist of former driver, Ki-taek (Song Kang-ho), his wife Chung-sook (Jang Hye-jin) and their two twenty-something children. The son, Ki-woo (Choi Woo-shik), dreams of going to university. The daughter, Ki-jeong (Park S0-dam), is sly and intelligent, but not strikingly ambitious. 

The Kims earn their money folding pizza boxes in a cramped basement home. Not much happens in their lives, save praying for good Wi-Fi and dreaming of opportunities that may never come.

But it does come, courtesy of Ki-Woo’s friend, an English tutor for the rich Park family. He is leaving to study abroad and wants Ki-Woo to take over. This is what the Kims have been waiting for. As Ki-woo approaches his job interview, he devises a plan which will change his family’s situation forever.

The story hypnotises viewers from the beginning. A masterful script not only provides astute social commentary, but great entertainment as well. Neither obvious nor pretentious, it doesn’t tell us which characters are good and bad. In fact, one might find it hard to sympathise with anyone on the screen— but everyone will see them in a different way, and that is what makes Parasite a masterpiece.

I must single out the production design for praise. The rich family’s house feels like another character, with a soul full of secrets and mysteries. This building, the work of great architect Namgoong in the story, was in fact designed and built especially for the film.

Beloved by critics, cinephiles, and regular moviegoers, Joon-ho’s work is one of few to find such widespread acclaim. Despite its South Korean setting, the film’s themes are universal, which perhaps accounts for its international success. Overall, Parasite is one of the most important and original films in recent memory, sure to become an all-time classic (if it hasn’t already). 

5/5.

Photo: Wally Gobetz @Flickr

Review: Richard Jewell

Written by jamesmccafferty on . Posted in Film.

Since his earliest screen performances in Sergio Leone’s spaghetti westerns, Clint Eastwood has seemed captured by the idea of the ‘American hero’. In Richard Jewell, he seeks to explore what kind of a person can be a hero and how our preconceptions about an individual shape our feelings towards them.

Eastwood’s latest, written by Billy Ray, is based on the true story of the title character. Working as a security guard at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, Jewell was responsible for discovering a pipe bomb in Centennial Olympic Park that later killed two people and injured 111 more. Jewell was subjected to an invasive investigation and intense media scrutiny when he emerged as the FBI’s chief suspect in the case, despite his role in preventing additional casualties.

As portrayed by Paul Walter Hauser, Jewell is the antithesis of a typical hero. In the film’s opening sequence he is shown struggling to keep a job, having been fired as the sheriff’s deputy and living alone with his mother Bobi. Although obviously good-hearted, his zealous approach to law enforcement while working as a college campus security guard is indicative of his broader character.

Hauser is fantastic and avoids turning the character into a caricature, generating incredible pathos. In a similar manner, Kathy Bates brings intense humanity to her role as Bobi Jewell. The relationship between mother and son feels completely real and provides some tender moments throughout the film.

 

 

Ray’s script and Eastwood’s direction are filled with righteous fury. Once they have identified Jewell as a particular type of person, the FBI has no issue with manipulating, denigrating and publicly humiliating him on that basis. Watching this character who should undoubtedly be celebrated for his heroism be treated in such a way, it is impossible not to feel this anger too.

The third in a trio of great performances is Sam Rockwell as Jewell’s attorney, Watson Bryant. His cynical nature is the polar opposite of Jewell’s deferential attitude to the authorities and Rockwell is excellent at directing a passionate rage against FBI agents and journalists alike. Aside from this, however, he is perhaps the only character in the film who treats Jewell with dignity and respect and, accordingly, the only one not taken in by the media hysteria.

Controversy arose in the wake of the film’s release over the portrayal of the late journalist Kathy Scruggs. As portrayed by Olivia Wilde, it is implied that Scruggs used sex to acquire information from FBI agents. While the filmmakers have explained that this was a dramatic contrivance, it’s disappointing how such experienced individuals have reinforced a misogynistic trope about female journalists.

Richard Jewell is a flawed but compelling character study that tells the story of an ordinary man who saves hundreds of lives and has his life torn apart as a consequence. In the process, it encourages us to think seriously about what makes a hero and whether such a thing actually exists.

4/5.

Photo: Republic of Korea @Flickr

What does Parasite’s big win mean for the future of the Oscars?

Written by Maria Atter on . Posted in Film.

“Once you overcome the one-inch tall barrier of subtitles, you will be introduced to so many more amazing films,” said Bong Joon-ho when accepting his award for Best Foreign-Language Film at the Golden Globes this year. Just over a month later, his film Parasite has made Oscar history as the first non-English speaking film to win Best Picture.

The film, an enthralling dark comedy, focuses on two families from opposite ends of the socio-economic spectrum, who become increasingly entangled in each other’s lives. Besides Best Picture, Parasite also picked up awards for Best Director, Best International Film and Best Original Screenplay, making the night particularly momentous. What does all this mean for the future of the Oscars?

The Oscars have been historically influential in guiding audiences to watch certain films, but many wins have been predictable, and even boring, choices. Indeed, many have contended that the Oscars are simply a “popularity contest”, rewarding and endorsing films that are commercially successful and often follow the same “safe” formulas. We hear every year about films that are “Oscar-bait” in the making, meeting certain criteria and yet ultimately lacking the vibrancy of innovative writing and fresh perspectives. This legacy resounds in the existence of some very forgettable Best Picture winners (*cough* 2019’s Green Book). 

Parasite winning Best Picture is a huge and vitally-needed endorsement of international cinema. In the history of the Oscars, non-English language films have only been nominated 11 times for Best Picture. While some moviegoers automatically refuse to see subtitled films, this win could open these same audiences up to watching films they may not have previously considered, which often provide angles and plot-lines that feel completely new. Diverse and interesting filmmaking is exactly what is needed in this day and age, with audiences repeatedly showing that they will turn out in the masses to see original ideas, especially featuring underrepresented demographics. For once it seems as though the Oscars will be a useful point of reference for viewers looking for a film that is gripping and genuinely inventive.

Beyond inviting new audiences, this win could mark the beginning of more acknowledgment for international filmmakers. With this Best Picture win, some praise is given where praise is due, at last. Asians actors and filmmakers have continually been under-represented by the Oscars, both in nominations and wins, but also by the film industry at large.  This marginalisation is evident in this year’s acting nominations, in which no Parasite cast members were nominated for an Oscar. In fact, only one actor of colour (Cynthia Erivo) was nominated in a major acting category. Speaking to CNN, Nancy Wang Yuen comments: “I think it’s ridiculous that you would have a film receive six nominations, but none of the actors are nominated. Like, “Oh, this film is so good, but the actors didn’t do anything.”

The Oscars clearly have a long way to go in rectifying the underrepresentation of nominations and awards for people of colour. Parasite‘s wins at the 92nd Academy Awards make history in numerous ways: as the first non-English speaking film to win Best Picture; as the first film by a South Korean director to win Best Picture; as the first film with a primarily Asian cast to win Best Picture.

In recognising a non-English speaking film as worthy of accolades beyond just Best International Feature, this will hopefully be the start of a new beginning for the Oscars. 

The Ivy: a chain of disappointment

Written by ryjackson on . Posted in Food & Drink.

Style over substance is an issue for any restaurant, of course. But when you have neither it is very difficult to understand why it can be hard to get a table. Manchester’s The Ivy toy with the idea of style and substance in a way that renders them both non-existent. In a building that resembles a Pirates of the Caribbean ride and an interior decor that appears to have been designed by Crayola, the food, you’d hope, would be the chain’s saving grace. Voila, disappointment number one. 

The next disappointment comes in the form of expectation. The Ivy, with its famous and beloved London flagship represents a notoriously lavish and exclusive restaurant. Though in recent times has quickly re-imagined itself as the Starbucks of the restaurant world. The chain has extended itself to dozens of cafés, grills and brasseries, and, as you would expect, has inevitably begun its slow demise. This death is in the form of a painful and tasteless cease of standards and delivery.

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Serving dishes that can only be described as deplorable airplane food, the most agreeable thing about Manchester’s The Ivy is its bar. But even then its enjoyment is marred by multiple forms of worry. Worry of how busy it might be, worry over whether you will be allowed in, worry over whether your drinks might be ruined by pitiful efforts of entertainment, and finally, worry over how much the bill might be? 

Which brings us to our next disappointment – the price. For what is quite clearly microwaved food made a bit more bearable by heavy cutlery and some flowers, the bill will shock you. I have a good feeling that if The Ivy adopted a ‘pay what you feel’ approach many of their branches would close down as quickly as they opened.

Granted, The Ivy is lavish and ornate. It represents excessive wealth and ornamental dining – but what happened to restaurants being about the food? Why have restaurants given up on food in the lieu of being ‘instagrammable’?

Manchester’s much-anticipated restaurant is severely lacking, mainly in cooking but more in care. It is a disappointment that a restaurant that could be so loved, and indeed has been loved for some time, will allow itself to slip beyond grasp. It is a greater disappointment that you leave feeling like you have just sent hundreds of pounds to a man who claimed he was a prince via email. Finally, the biggest disappointment is knowing that with the money you spent you could buy a flight out of Manchester and probably have a better meal at 30,000ft.

As a chain, you might expect it, and with The Ivy the situation has very much been better, best, bested.   

A guy’s guide to wearing jewellery

Written by Anna Jin on . Posted in Fashion & Beauty.

Charles I was executed wearing a pearl earring. Bracelets for men date as far back as 3000 BC. Throughout history, it was common for both men and women to decorate their bodies with jewellery. It is only during the past two centuries that it has become less common for men to wear it, other than a simple wristwatch.

However, it is becoming increasingly common for men to wear jewellery, which is great as it can be a powerful way to express your personality and to distinguish yourself from the crowd. In addition, these pieces are often long-lasting as most jewellery is timeless.

If you’d like to start wearing jewellery more, but don’t know where to start, here’s a guide on how to incorporate some classic or statement pieces into your look.

Necklaces

Necklaces or chains can be the ultimate statement piece, so it is important to choose one that resonates with your personality. Necklaces can easily look overpowering, so it’s advised to choose a length and thickness proportionate to your body type. For example, someone with a wider shape might suit a thicker chain.

Bracelets

Bracelets are easy to wear and can be the perfect place to start when it comes to wearing jewellery. Bracelets are an effortless way to give an edge to a basic uni outfit, and they can be easily styled up or down to fit the occasion.

A minimalistic metal band will build upon a classic sense style, or try stacking multiple bracelets of different textures together for a rough, layered effect. Avoid chunky bands as they are not only unflattering but can be uncomfortable to wear.

Watches

When talking about wristwear, it is impossible to ignore the most popular of jewellery for men, the watch, where style meets practicality. Since watches are the most common form of accessory, there are few rules in regard to styling them, because their versatility provides freedom for personal expression and experimentation. However, it is always a good idea to wear a watch that fits well, as it makes them look more expensive.

Rings

Lastly, we come to rings, which have spiked in popularity with the resurgence of the signet ring. With practicality in mind, less is more. A slim ring will instantly add to an outfit and has the added advantage of being lightweight so you can go about your life without even thinking about it.

One last thing to remember: when it comes to jewellery, balance is key. If you’re wearing a watch or some rings on one hand, stack some bracelets on the other. Happy styling!

Photo: Women in Media

Women in Media returns to Manchester

Written by Rebecca Rommen on . Posted in News.

The Women in Media Conference is returning to the People’s History Museum on March 7th-8th 2020, coinciding with International Women’s Day.

The Women in Media Conference is a great opportunity to learn about the media industry, gain insight into the diverse range of careers within the media industry and meet inspiring individuals. It aims to break down barriers and empower people considering a future in media, as well as provide opportunities to network with prominent women in the industry.

Confirmed speakers for the 2020 conference include Cath Addis from BBC World News, Channel 5’s Dorothy Birne and the BBC’s resident Tik Tok maker Emma Bentley, among many other accomplished women within the media industry.

Although all speakers at the conference are either women or non-binary, it is open to attendees of all genders, backgrounds and ages.

The conference, which is in its fifth year, is student-run and profits raised will be donated to Manchester Action on Street Health. Its organising committee is affiliated with the Students’ Union and made up of members of the Manchester Media Group.

It celebrates women within the media industry by inviting them to share their stories and advice with delegates through panel discussions, workshops and keynote speeches. Guest speakers have a wide range of backgrounds in radio, TV, news and PR, amongst others.

Photo: Women in Media

Since the conference started in 2016, huge steps have been taken towards equality in the media – particularly in terms of gender equality – but a lack of intersectional representation persists. A study by Ofcom found that women continue to be under-represented at senior levels, with men still dominating senior management positions. Alongisde this, only 6% of radio employees self-identified as disabled in 2018 – far below the UK working average of 18%.

Class and race aren’t proportionately represented in the media either. Statistically, TV workers tend to come from privileged backgrounds – 60% of them have grown up in homes where the primary income provider held a professional occupation, compared to the national average of 33%. People working in TV are also twice as likely than the average person to have attended private schools. The current UK labour market figure of ethnic minorities is 12%, but a mere 8% of senior management positions in the media are occupied by minorities.

Women in Media continues to work towards tackling these issues, seeking to make the media industry more accessible as well as informing people about the wide range of career paths within it. This year’s conference will offer insight into STEM careers in the media, as well as roles in publishing and PR. CV drop-in sessions and workshops with media professionals will also be available at the conference.

Tickets are available on Eventbrite.

Preview: Cage the Elephant UK/European Tour

Written by Lily Martin on . Posted in Music.

American noughties rock sensations Cage the Elephant will play a UK tour this month in the wake of their much-anticipated collaboration with Iggy Pop on single ‘Broken Boy’. The track features the iconic punk singer in vocals on the opening song of their celebrated fifth studio album Social Cues. 

Described by Iggy Pop as a “super high energy outfit, living the rock dream”, this collaboration was widely praised by fans and critics alike. “He’s such a pioneer in so many fields: lyrically, culturally, poetically, visually, musically, and stylistically,” Cage the Elephant’s lead singer Matt Shultz said of Pop’s involvement in the track in a statement. “Only a couple times in your life do you have the opportunity to share a moment with a visionary and beautiful human as he is. I’m grateful and blown away to have experienced and witnessed, not just his creativity, but also his kindness, humility, and humanness first hand. Such a testimony to the power of love.”

This is the first time that Cage the Elephant will have toured the UK since their sold-out show at Brixton Academy in February 2017. Their 2019 dates in the UK were cancelled after guitarist Nick Bockrath broke his knee jumping off stage; this two-month, eighteen-date stretch already boasts five sold-out shows.

Cage the Elephant recently won Best Rock Album at the 62nd GRAMMY Awards for Social Cues. This was the third time the band has been nominated, and cements their legendary status within the history and culture of the rock genre. They had previously won the award in 2017 for Tell Me I’m Pretty and and were also nominated in 2015 for Best Alternative Album for Melophobia.

Cage the Elephant play Manchester’s O2 Victoria Warehouse on Wednesday 19 February. Last chance to get tickets!

Valentine's Day photo: Jude Beck @Unsplash

All you need is love…and presents?

Written by lottienorton2 on . Posted in Lifestyle.

February 14th – a.k.a Valentine’s Day – is a whole day dedicated to celebrating your relationship, and the love for your partner, bae, or significant other. But is all this necessary or is it a commercial con?

For some, receiving lavish gifts like jewellery, hotel stays, or weekends away demonstrates to them how much they are appreciated and loved. For others, Valentine’s Day is a big scam encouraging us to overspend – because that’s what love is all about, right?

You should always make sure your partner knows they are valued and appreciated, but Valentine’s Day is the one day I feel like I can be extra soppy towards my boyfriend. I like being able to write someone a card and tell them exactly how I feel about them and Valentine’s Day is the perfect time and opportunity to do just that. But shouldn’t we feel we can do this on any day of the year and not just on February 14th?

Valentine’s Day used to be celebrated between two people in a relationship. However, in recent years the event has become more commercialised with shops selling cards for friends, parents, siblings and even your pets. Does such extensive advertisement make Valentine’s Day a competition to see who got the best gift or went to the fanciest restaurant? With the endless list of social media platforms it will be near impossible to avoid seeing a #boydidgood post. A lot of millennials like to show their followers luxurious gifts they have received from their partner. Does this put pressure on people? That everyone should aspire to want and expect the same, even if they can’t afford it?

There is no right or wrong way to spend Valentine’s Day and you should celebrate however you want to. If that means a bouquet of roses, an expensive meal out, or doing nothing at all. The real essence of Valentine’s Day is to celebrate your love for someone – be that yourself, your friends, or your significant other – and you should do that in whatever way feels right. Whether that’s to say the three big words or buy a nice card, it is the thought that counts and not the price.

Remember, you don’t need to wait until Valentine’s Day to tell your partner how much you love them.

Photo: courtesy of HOME

HOME Season: Adaptation: Impossible Novels

Written by Tobias Soar on . Posted in Film.

The jump of a story from the page to the silver screen poses a monumental challenge for screenwriters and filmmakers. So much detail is lost to the streamlining process in the writing room, secondary storylines are omitted completely, and, sometimes, important quotes don’t quite make the cut.

However, some film adaptations of books go against all odds and manage stand toe-to-toe with their source materials — and some even surpass their paper forefathers. These are the films that are championed at HOME’s “Adaptation: Impossible Novels” season.

The season started earlier this month but will be running until Sunday 23 February. The films showing later this month are:

Ulysses (1967) – Wednesday 12 February, 18:00.

Naked Lunch (1991) – Sunday 16 February, 13:00.

Where the Wild Things Are (2009) – Sunday 23 February, 11:00.

Norwegian Wood (2010) – Sunday 23 February, 15:20.

 

Tickets for every film are available on HOME’s website.

Sustainable and affordable beauty brands

Written by Alice Holder on . Posted in Fashion & Beauty.

While the sustainability movement is often more interested in the impacts of the fashion industry rather than the impact of beauty products, the beauty industry, generally, is by no means eco-friendly.

More than 120 billion units of packaging are produced every year by the global cosmetics industry and the majority of beauty products come packaged in non-biodegradable plastic.

Luckily, some beauty brands are taking steps to reduce their climate footprint and many are doing so whilst ensuring their pricing is affordable. Here are some of the brands that deserve a pat on the back, and your support, for their eco-efforts…

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Beauty Pie

Why pay £25 for a luxury lipstick when it only costs £2.46 to make? Beauty Pie’s innovative membership allows you to buy high-end, luxury beauty products for the manufacturing price, rather than the usually inflated retail price, whilst helping to protect the environment!

Beauty Pie uses plant-based inks and recyclable and recycled packaging, whilst keeping all foil usage to a maximum of 30% in packaging, to ensure that they are recyclable. Not only does this keep the price down but also makes the brand as ecologically conscious as possible! 

Monthly memberships start at £5 a month

Spectrum Brushes (vg)

There are plenty of affordable and environmentally conscious makeup brushes out there, but none can compete with Spectrum Brushes. This independent brand cut their plastic packaging by 50% in 2018 and gives 1% of its gross revenue to plastic clean-up concerns. 

Prices: £3.99-£10.99 

Neal’s Yard

Successfully campaigning alongside Greenpeace against microbead use, Neal’s Yard is the first British brand to be Look For Zero certified. This year it launched a recycling scheme inviting customers to bring in their old non-recyclable containers from any brands for reuse. Their own packaging is made from glass rather than plastic.

Prices: £17 – £75

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7JR1qdgDkH/

LUSH (V)

Lush has paved the way for sustainable beauty brands everywhere, since its creation in 1995. Around 90% of their packaging is recycled, including plastic and paper that is 100% PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled). According to the company, half of Lush’s products can be taken home without any packaging, and its naked shop in Manchester is England’s first plastic packaging-free beauty and cosmetics store.

Prices: £1.50 – £44

L’Occitane

This slightly more high-end brand boasts a long history of recycling. L’Occitane has never given out plastic bags in-store and has been recycling since the 1990’s. It has reportedly already saved 28 tonnes of plastic. By 2025, L’Occitane hopes to only supply 100% recycled plastic and wants all of their shops to offer recycling. They also offer Recharge Refill products, which promote the reuse of materials and packaging. 

Prices: £9 – £80

Hooters, bearded dragons, and clogs: inside the world of university expenses

Written by Nicole Wootton-Cane on . Posted in Investigations.

A Mancunion investigation into staff expenses has found that staff at the University of Manchester are using corporate credit cards at the divisive American chain restaurant Hooters, as well as on items such as clogs and bearded dragons.

Between August 2018 and August 2019, university staff spent nearly £6.7m on expenses ranging from hotel rooms, catering, and venue hire, to experiences such as Go Ape and The Crystal Maze Live, and various clothing and retail outlets.

Whilst attending a conference in Atlanta, Georgia, two members of staff used university cards at Hooters, the American ‘breastaurant’ that is famous for its scantily clad waitresses. Hooters has long been accused of sexism and objectification of women, with the ‘Hooters girls’ employed at the restaurant required to wear a uniform of a tank top and shorts, and encouraged to flirt and chat with customers. The name ‘Hooters’ is a slang term for women’s breasts.

Speaking to GQ, ex-Hooters waitress Brittanny Anderson said: “It is an entire job based on sexual harassment. You are paid to be sexually harassed and objectified. Everyone at Hooters is aware.”

When asked if Hooters is an appropriate place for academic staff representing the University of Manchester to spend university funds, a University spokesperson said: “These were for small amounts and covered two separate meals in a legitimate fast-food establishment in America whilst attending a conference.”

Jasmine Taylor, the Disability Rep of UoM Feminist Collective called the University’s response “shocking”, saying: “My personal first thoughts were how disrespectful to students that is. We as [the Feminist] Collective obviously support sex workers, but Hooters is notoriously a problematic chain of establishments with toxic and misogynistic ties.

“I am firmly of the opinion that University staff should not be representing and claiming expenses from UoM to promote the objectification of women. It’s disrespectful to the students who are directly funding their sexual consumption.”

One staff member claimed a pair of clogs on their expenses from worldofclogs.com. Others bought clothing from North Face for an expedition, and a £1,095 smart watch from Fossil for a patient-generated health data study.

A University spokesperson said that staff could only use the purchasing cards to buy clothing “under certain unforeseen circumstances”; for example, one staff member spent £115 at Uniqlo in Chicago after their luggage was delayed, and others spent £370 at North Face on “appropriate clothing” for an expedition.

Bearded dragons were bought from an exotic pet store for use in “undergraduate projects”.

University staff also spent over £1,200 at Revolution Manchester and £700 at Gorilla at Christmas parties, as well as £1,755 at the Comedy Store on a comedy night for BSc International Business, Finance and Economics, International Management, and International Management with American Business Studies. The event was put on to “try to improve programme identity and promote student wellbeing”, and was free for students to attend.

A University spokesperson said: “The University has a robust and proportionate system in place for all our staff expenses. The claims outlined by The Mancunion have all been approved and are for a range of legitimate business-related purposes. There are times when using a corporate credit card is the most efficient way to purchase goods and services.

“These include travel, attending and hosting academic conferences and events, students teaching and learning, outreach work, and carrying out and promoting our institution’s research. A significant amount also goes on staff and academic training.

“For example, a substantial total of the expenses simply went on venue hire and catering for hosting events, training and conferences. This is the case with a majority of the location and hotel claims highlighted by The Mancunion.”

Review: Avengers: Ensemble (UMMTS)

Written by lilyrosenberg on . Posted in Theatre.

A student production, especially one written and created by someone my own age, requires a a strong, critical voice. Every element of the direction, cast, and plot should be questioned and I felt compelled and invested to do so. The production of Avengers: Ensemble felt perfetly handcrafted for the audience and I am pleased to share my positive experience of this comic book inspired spectacle.

Alan Menken is tasked with assembling a group – after being asked by the acclaimed composer and lyricist Steven Sondheim, to go after Andrew Llyod Weber for wanting to destroy the world and being oh so very evil.

How does one stop the composer, lyricist, and EGOT winner?

Only by bringing together the best musical theatre stars to defeat him, obviously.

Ross McFadden as Steven Sondheim, with a cane and perfect comedic timing, starts the show off on the right foot singing ‘Holding Out for a Hero’. Choosing Llyod Weber as the villain was the second, solely based on my own internal opposition for him and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

A full song about the colors of a coat? Really, Andrew, I can see why a group of musical acts must annihilate you.

Oscar Brennan with his wide-eyed expression, really encompassed my vision precisely of the whimsical, child-like composer and songwriter of Walt Disney Animation studios. The team he slowly gathers gives a glimpse into the life beyond the musical of some of the most iconic theatre characters. These characters include Dorthy now working in a shoe store, or Shrek, call him Sean though, striving for acclaim as a real actor.

Lauren Owen, playing Dorthy, has a beautiful voice and was delightful to watch interact with her co-stars, and plays blissfully off Elphaba (Tillie Quanttrone), also an incredible singer, comedian with a powerhouse vocal performance.

Nick Bond was meant for the role of Shrek – probably finding inspiration through his studies as a Drama student. Every step that he takes to be taken seriously, the more the audience giggled and enjoyed his comedic performance.

Becca Windsor (Jenna or Waitress) rounded off the group of musical superstars, not just because she played a pregnant woman doing a song from Sweeney Todd. Her performance was ultimately weird yet delightful.

Menken’s explorations  of the lives of these stars is effortlessly interwoven with classics from a variety of musicals, film and theatre. The variety was so vast that I, a self-proclaimed musical fan, could not identify a few – sorry, Pippin, I’ve never seen you!

Regardless, the songs seemed perfect for their new plot and context. Even the original song ‘Believe In Me’, the lyrics created by co-director, Roman Armstrong, and music by George Parris, were so well-written, it camouflaged into the other acclaimed musical numbers.

Despite playing evil himself, Noah Matthews was a brilliant Andrew Llyod-Webber – arguably with better hair – playing a man settled between self-absorbed and dramatically flawed. His entourage completed his character. Phantom (Jack Holding), with his subdued craving to be apart of the outside world, made incredible punchlines, though I am not sure if the laughter was coming from the actual lines being said or the way Holding delivered it with his high pitch soft tone. Playing a cat from Cats, Samantha Grieve showed off her stand-out comedic timing as well as her robust physical humour.

The highlight of the show for me was the co-directors, Armstrong and Onnagh Johnson, mid-scene from the back of the room, stopping a scene. After which, both come on stage to tell the cast the show’s running overtime.

Script in hand, they cut scenes, quickly axing Shrek’s funeral scene. In this sequence, the fourth wall is broken as the actors complain about which scenes are being cut, and whether it was from their mistakes made earlier in the show, with Sam Grieves saying: “Was it because my cat ears fell off during ‘Money, Money, Money’?” My favourite line, and I know it was improvised. Pure meta perfection.

Talking to co-director Roman Armstrong after the show, he spoke of the collaborative process for the musical:

“We had a general idea, but when the cast came in, we discussed scenarios, worked through scenes and what they might look like. They mostly wrote it.”

He and his co-director Onnogh Johnson, wrote down almost every word that came out of the cast’s mouths – picking their favourite jokes and interactions for the final product.

Collaboration seems to be the cornerstone here. The show poked fun at musical theatre culture, the people behind it, and the actual musical itself. Watching, I glimpsed the cast’s enjoyment of performing together, and wished I was a part of the fun.

Avengers: Ensemble is truly a creative and innovative production. It calls out not only to musical theatre lovers but the wider public. It has longevity, and I applaud the entire cast and crew for handcrafting such a musical.