Journalism

 I am currently working with group of student to write stories on immigration, you can check those out here.

Here you can see some examples of my feature articles I wrote last semester (September  - December 2013)

Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Early last year, it was difficult to place the Hunger Games as a blockbuster spectacular but the franchise is fast becoming one of the most iconic of our time.

The second instalment takes place in the futuristic Panem, namely District 12, home to our heroin Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence). Not only winning the 74^th Hunger Games with fellow contestant Peeta Mallark (Josh Hutcherson) and potential love interest, the girl on fire manages to outsmart the Capitol, leading the two tributes to fear for their lives and those of their loved ones.

After their time in the arena, Katniss and Peeta believe their time in the Games to be finished however the fighting proves to be only the start of the games as they continue to try and convince their adoring fans of Panem of their eternal love.

With Snow's Machiavellian head game keeper by his side, (Philip Seymour Hoffman), the team commission an all star, all tribute version of the Hunger Games. Throwing 24 of the Capitols most beloved tributes back into the arena. Thus ruining Katniss sweetheart reputation.

Jennifer Lawrences performance of the stubborn and fiesty Katniss Everdeen encapsulates the audience whilst she still echoes the turmoil and dread throughout the Districts of Panem. Director Francis Lawrence manages to spoof the actress's own quirky personality through Katniss's awkward and forced interviews with the glutinous T.V. Host Ceaser (Stanley Tucci)

At times, the interviews between Ceaser and the tributes can feel somewhat reminiscent of today’s own reliance on reality television however these similarities become a clear a comment on how todays society uses reality television as a mean of distraction from the troubles of the world.

Elizabeth Banks also bring a stellar performance to the film as Effie Trinket, the tributes wrangler and escort. Banks manages to transform the privileged Capitol girl into someone who no longer sees her tributes as something to prep and prime but people she genuinely cares about.

The film manages to stay loyal to the Suzanne Collins books however to an avid fan of the books would notice some very important changes. A vital part of the development in the story is the meeting between Katniss and two escapees from district 11. Through this meeting Katniss learns of the potential survival of people in District 13 and the uprising is the other districts. Despite the changes of the book, director Lawrence still manages to allow Katniss a glimpse into the state of Panem through a door left ajar during their time on the train. This change is not subtle for fans of the book and the blink and the miss it scene where we are shown the uprising in other districts can leave the audience asking questions.

The only thing is not translated easily into the film is the internal struggle Katniss faces with her feelings towards life long friend Gale, and fellow tribute Peeta. Through reading the book we are able to understand Katniss's struggle with her own feelings and we are able to sympathise with her and she tries to make a life altering decision. However, during the first half of the film, Katniss seemed whole heartedly set on Gale as her future. We suddenly get a complete change of heart without any so called explanation other then Peeta saying “I don't want to keep pretending for the cameras and ignoring each other the rest of the time”.

Despite changes the changes from the book, that for anyone who had not read the book before, could argue would make no difference to the overall plot, the film was an excellent example a successful translation of book to film. It's safe to safe the cliff hanger ending will leave viewers at the edge of their seat and excited for the next instalment. 

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R.I.P Brian Griffin

Fans of Family guy have been left in shock after creators and producers made the difficult decision to kill one of the cartoon families central characters.

The moment Brian Griffin, family pet and best friend to Peter Griffin was killed, the internet erupted with grieving fans looking for an outlet for their sadness. In the episode 'The Life of Brian' the beloved family dog was hit by a car a despite the vets best effort could not be saved. Brian have a pivotal character in the show since the pilot episode in 1999.

“I didn't expect it and I don't think it was fair to just take him out the show like that when he us so many people's favourite character” Jamie Colley, 18, from Wolverhampton has been a fan of the show since the age of 14. “they're gonna lose a lot of viewers!”

Family guy often kills off minor character in it's episodes, many of these characters only being in one episode at a time. What made Brians death so realistic and permanent was the way in which he was killed. Compared to the way in which characters have been previously killed Brians death was realistic and quick.

Show producer, Steve Callaghan said in a recent interview "As much as we love Brian, and as much as everyone loves their pets, we felt it would be more traumatic to lose one of the kids, rather than the family pet."

Almost immediately after the devastating death of one of the most beloved animated characters, the Griffin family decided to adopt a new pet in order to move on from.

Vinny, voiced by the Sopranos Tony Sirico, is a cheeky and rough around the edges character quite different from the smart and studious Brian. Jamie continues to add “there's definitely gonna be some episodes focusing on the new character fitting in with all the usual guys, like Quagmire who always hated Brian, they'll be good friends I reckon!”

Whether Brian's death is a permanent change to the line up is yet to be confirmed, future episodes that have yet to be aired are said to feature, many of which include his name in the episode title, leading us to believe he will be central to the story line.

update: Brian Griffin returned to Family Guy in the Christmas episode December 2013 after Stewie had a chance encounter with a Stewie from the past. 

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Christmas cheer in Birmingham

It's that time of year again when the streets of Birmingham City centre are full festive cheer and the Bullring is abuzz with Christmas shoppers.

However, if your struggling to decide on how to entertain yourself or the family this Christmas holiday, Birmingham is just the place for you. From the Sea Life centre to Cadbury world, there is a festive event to entertain the whole family.

Birmingham Frankfurt Market.

Bigger and better this year, the German market will not fail to get you in the festive spirit. Opening November 22^nd, the market begins in New Street and ends in Centenary Square. Traditional stall offer visitors and array of crafts, toys and Christmas decorations. If your tired of shopping, why not stop at one of the food stalls and enjoy a glass of German mulled wine, grilled sausages, and German beer.

Winter Skate 2013.

Visitors can once again show off their ice-skating skills at Birmingham's winter Skate, the only outdoor ice skating rink in the city. Opening November 16^th, the rink is located outside the cities new library. Visitors can also enjoy hot chocolate and sausage rolls from the Ice Café and for those who would prefer to sit back watch, viewing platforms will be available.

Santa at SeaLife.

Come and join the merriment at the SeaLife this December and celebrate with your little ones. An array of seaLife creatures will be on hand to join in with you, from sea otters, clown fish and hammerhead sharks and on the 14^th December, Santa will be making his way from the North Pole to pay a special visit. Book now with no additional cost to avoid disappointment.

Miracle on 34^th Street.

The new Alexander theatre will be show casing one of the most loved Christmas films off time on 5^th -7^th December. Come see the magical tale of a department store Santa claiming to be the real deal. Book your Tickets now!

Ghost.

The smash hit West End show based on the Oscar nominated film comes to Birmingham the December, so why not take your loved one to the New Alexander theatre to see the timeless classic. Ghost is a rollercoaster ride of romance, comedy and dazzling stage effects. The runs from the 17^th December - 5^th January.

Shop until you drop.

Difficult family member to buy for? Last minute Christmas shopping? Birmingham has everything you could possibly desire. From the Bullring to the Jewellery quarter, there's a gift for everyone. Come and splurge in Selfrdiges with 20% off at the Christmas event on the 28^th November til the 1^st December.