As with any relationship breakdown, issues to be dealt with include division of the finances, any civil partnership dissolution and with whom any children will live (as well as contact with the non-resident parent). But these types of divorce cases have a more complex dynamic, with difficult legal and social questions arising from the mismatched biological (and often legal) status of the two female parents.

To date there has been very little judicial guidance as to how much weight the family court will place on the importance of being a birth mother in divorce proceedings, and whether in such cases the birth history and biological link should be considered more important than the relationship between the non-birth mother and the child.

Of course every case is unique, but the two main cases so far where the court has considered and explored these issues in principle make for very interesting reading.

The first case was that of Re G [2006] UKHL 43 which involved a difficult dispute about where the children conceived by a lesbian couple through artificial insemination should live following their separation. The High Court and Court of Appeal ruled that the non-birth mother should have primary care of the two children (mainly because the birth mother had behaved badly and removed the children to Cornwall deliberately to obstruct her former partner’s relationship with the children).  However, in a landmark judgment the House of Lords ruled that the lower courts had not given sufficient weight to the fact that the birth mother was the biological mother of the children and ordered that the children should continue to live with her. The House of Lords expressly stated that the lower courts had placed too much weight on the behaviour of the birth mother and not enough on the biological basis of her relationship. This was a ‘significant consideration which was of importance’. Being the birth mother is, it seems, significant.

The more recent case of T v B [2010] EWHC 1444 (Fam) involved a lesbian couple who were not civil partners but had lived together for many years and had undergone fertility treatment to conceive a child together. Once the child was born they both undertook the role of parents. Although the law at the time did not recognise the non-birth mother as a legal parent, she sought – and was given by the court – parental responsibility, which meant she had full legal authority to take decisions as a parent and to be involved in her child’s care.  Following separation the birth mother applied to the courts for financial provision from the non-birth mother. The court ruled that as the non-birth mother was not a legal parent she had no financial obligation despite the fact that she had to all intents and purposes been a ‘parent’ to them from the very start. The court was somewhat constrained by the wording of the law (and its frustration was evident) but it was clear in this case that whether you were a birth mother or not was deeply significant.

When the court are considering cases involving disputes about care arrangements for children, the court has a range of factors it has to take into consideration. These include: the child’s age, sex and background; their physical, emotional, educational needs; the effect of any change in circumstances; their ascertainable wishes and feelings; any harm the child has suffered or is at risk of suffering and how capable each parent is in meeting the child’s needs.  The welfare of the child will be the court’s paramount consideration and any decision made by the court will be based on what the court considers to be in the child’s best interests. In practice this gives a lot of flexibility, although it is clear that the court is inclined to place weight on the importance of the biological link with the birth mother. In relation to child maintenance questions, this bias is more institutional, with clear legal rules which make only legal parents (and their spouses) financially responsible.

On 6 April 2009 the law in the UK changed to allow two mothers to be named on the birth certificate, recognising them both as the legal parents and giving them both financial responsibility for their children. It is notable that both of the birth mother vs non-birth mother cases have involved children born before this legal change.  Whether or not the new law will give greater weight to the non-birth mother’s position waits to be seen (although this will certainly be the case in relation to financial questions). Things are likely to be muddied further by the increasing blurring of the lines between birth and biological parenthood for lesbian couples. We are certainly seeing more egg swapping cases, where an egg has been taken from the non birth mother, fertilised and then transferred to the birth mother. Where parents in these situations separate, will the birth mother or the biological mother be the one with the upper hand?

Same-sex divorces are undoubtedly legally complex where children are involved. In a dispute over a child within an alternative family structure, an argument often run is the importance of the biological link, and the genetic identity of the child. With changes to the law and even more complex family structures emerging, it will be interesting to see how the court responds.

Article: by Sarah Wood-Heath of NatalieGambleAssociates; originally published 8th May 2012 www.bionews.org.uk

Following the disappearance of BNP leader Ilias Ali and all political violence related to it, the issue comes to the fore. Swedish Ambassador Kenny said steps should be in place to minimise the infringement on the human rights and urged the civil society and the media to highlight the issue. Head of the EU Delegation in Dhaka Ambassador William Hanna said EU shows zero tolerance to corruption in its projects in Bangladesh. As the EU is the biggest development partner of Bangladesh providing over 500 million Euros to this country annually, all political parties need to pay attention to revert its negative image to a new image by putting an end of all violence and inconsistencies.

I assure you, he did not disappoint myself and other fans on the evening. He brought a whole new meaning to Asian entertainment, and from what I saw of him, he looked as though he was really enjoying himself. There were moments where he jumped about on stage, singing his heart out, and he definitely caught our attention with his incredible performance.

I was humbled by his willing to interact with us and watching his personality shine through. He kept us guessing what he was about to come out with next, which is something I almost never encounter, especially from global Asian stars that I’ve seen in the past!

Kailash Kher continues to be one of my favourite singers, and I am looking forward to his next performance. CHAK DE PHATE!

Well, I played through Silent Hill Downpour, and while it isn’t as good as the earlier games, it’s definitely a step in the right direction, and it’s the best Silent Hill game for years. The protagonist is Murphy Pendleton- a prisoner who was arrested for unknown reasons, but during a flashback at the start of the game is revealed to have done some iffy things while inside. He’s transferred to a different prison and while en route the bus crashes, and he flees into Silent Hill. No longer an eerie, mist-covered retreat, the town is now a rain-soaked (hence the title), unsettling, at times damn creepy ghost town. Akira Yamaoka’s absence is felt, but the minimalist soundtrack still does wonders for the game’s atmosphere, and indeed if there’s one thing in the game really worth complimenting it’s the atmosphere. Outside is full of open spaces and few places to hide- a genuine sense of vulnerability. Inside is full of dark spaces, tight corners and a dreadful sense of the unknown. You can’t stay outside for ever- it routinely begins to rain, which brings out greater numbers of more aggressive enemies.

So the atmosphere’s effective, but what about the gameplay? Well, it’s both good and bad. The combat system is both usable and reflective of Murphy’s lack of skill, the guns also work along a similar line, although they sometimes miss despite your shot apparently being lined up properly. This doesn’t happen too often though. The game is split up into more story-focused, mission-esque parts that often take place indoors, and travelling to and from them through Silent Hill. The travelling sections are entirely free-roaming, and are filled with side quests, often found in apartments and other buildings. The side quests can seem strange, but generally do not seem out of place. Overall the gameplay moves into slightly different territory than before, but makes it feel natural, and feels fresh but familiar because of it.

The story also goes in an interesting direction- from the start of the game there are unanswered questions as to why Murphy is in prison, why he does what he does while he’s in there, why he’s pursued with such rabid determination after escaping: the game is also wrapped up nicely at the end. “…Downpour” works well for both newcomers (it’s a stand alone title that has no direct links to previous instalments) and is also great for fans (it’s a good, modern Silent Hill game, and it has clever nods to previous games that aren’t rammed down your throat).

One problem I will address is that it could be said that when compared to the good old days, it sometimes doesn’t feel like a Silent Hill game. I say problem, but I myself think it’s a point in the game’s favour: to be brutally honest, Silent Hill as a series will never be as good as it once was. If indeed they must keep making new Silent Hill games (I know I can’t stop them), the right way to go is stand-alone games that evolve in ways other than needless tweaks that effect very little. “…Downpour” succeeds where the last three games failed because it doesn’t just take the visual tropes of the original games and pretends they’re still fresh. Admittedly, “Shattered Memories” tried new things like no weapons and more puzzles, but still ultimately failed. 1-4 are classics of the horror genre, indeed they’re classics generally, that aren’t helped by dwelling on them, remaking them, imitating them and wallowing. Speaking as a fan, the best thing to do is to keep what makes the series great- the psychological horror, the tension, the grotesque images filled with symbolism, but explore it more fully- take it to different places. As for Silent Hill Downpour, it’s a good game and an example of how modern horror can still be effective. The series really should have ended by now, but this latest instalment at least makes me hopeful that new Silent Hill games might not be the terrible prospect I’ve come to think of them as.

I will not pledge indifference to this, I am more than willing to admit that I have made mistakes. But the question I have to put forward is, should we be judged on the mistakes we have made?

The youth of this generation are amongst the highest rates of teenage pregnancy, highest rates of crime and violence, and on top of all this the highest rates of alcoholism and drug addiction, but before we judge the young people in these categories, should we not ask what influences them to do this? What exactly must be going on in their lives for them to seek solace in such places?

I used to fit into all of the above categories, I had my first child at 17, followed by my second at 19. At some point in my adolescence I fit into all of those categories, but people are entitled to make mistakes, as long as you learn from them.

The point I am getting at is , we as a society judge the youth of today, we judge them on these things. However, we forget about their lives and what they may have been through, or are still going through. I think before we look at the ‘bad’ in young people, we need to look at the ‘good’, yes these may be few and far between qualities in young people. We see boys and girls who are binge drinking, ‘getting high’, fighting, going to court, stealing, and then the cycle begins again. I admit it is hard to view the good in people when we see this day after day.

Yet, everyone in life has a dream, an aspiration, a hope for the future.

Maybe its about time we stopped judging them on what they have done and give them a real chance to succeed in life, some of those youngsters have the experience to make brilliant social workers, teachers and police officers.

I am studying to be a teacher, I have a criminal record. Yes, I am not proud, but I would not be me without it. What I did in my past made me who I am today. Someone with REAL lfe experience, someone who cares about the people society are constantly pushing out. There are thousands out there like me, people who wish someone would give them the chance they need.

So while we hear about the Government’s cracking down on hiring people in public services who have a criminal record, think about the people like myself, the ones who made silly mistakes, bad judgements, but the ones who learnt from them and want to turn their lives around. The ones who never wanted to fit into the stereotype of todays youth. Think about who they are now and who they could become…

Because everyone deserves a second chance , don’t they?

First off, while the more action-based gameplay is undeniably more high-octane than before, it doesn’t really make too much of a change to the story mode, despite less exploration, no forests and no daylight sections. The “shoot-dodge-get swarmed-light a flare” system still makes up the bulk of the combat, but there are more weapons and ammo now: assault rifles, crossbows, combat shotguns and the like, all of which are unlocked by collecting manuscript pages. There’s also a new enemy present in the spiders, which can be killed straight away with light or just bullets.These new guns come into play a lot more during the game’s “Fight ’till dawn” sections- ten minute survival horde maps that flit between being tense, exciting challenges and being empty because there’s only one enemy left in the wave and you can’t find each other. However, they’re generally a good addition to the game. What with the time-loop storyline, the story mode only features three different areas, but due to certain plot points you don’t have to do exactly the same thing every time. It’s a short game, and the repetition will put some people off, but stick with it and it’s definitely worth it.  Overall, the new gameplay fits the “Fight ’till Dawn” mode, but doesn’t make too much of  a difference in story mode.

The story is interesting, and manages to pack some great ideas into a short space of time: it focuses on Alan’s long, drawn-out attempt to finally escape from the dark place, and what’s going to start happening to the life he’s left behind if he doesn’t. Enter “Mr. Scratch”- so called because his real last name cannot be pronounced by human beings and to us it just sounds like white noise (that’s how it sounds in-game). He looks like Alan, he sounds like Alan, and he has a lot of Alan’s better qualities, with none of the weaknesses. He’s also a supernatural being made from pure darkness, and is a complete and utter psychopath. He’s mainly seen on televisions in short, live-action scenes (played by Alan Wake’s in-game actor Ilkka Villi) in which he’s locked in a hotel room with a party going on in the other rooms- spending his time taunting Alan with his plans to ruin his life, dancing to Poets of the fall (the excellent Finnish band that have been working closely with Remedy since “Max Payne 2″), and murdering people for fun. Sometimes all at once. He’s very over-the-top, but he’s a wonderful antagonist; charming, smart, murderous and seemingly fuelled entirely by hedonism. The live-action television scenes are very well done- they don’t seem at all at odds with the other character models, and the short cutscenes involving live-action Alan looking for live-action Mr. Scratch in a storm look great.

So overall, “Alan Wake’s American Nightmare” is an interesting release: the more combat-heavy gameplay is fun in the arcade mode, and although not making a radical change in terms of the story mode, doesn’t hurt it either. The story is a great sub-plot; simultaneously feeling self-contained and somehow a key part of the on-going narrative. A good game for both fans and newcomers; “…American Nightmare” is also a great downloadable title- showcasing what can be released on XBLA in terms of graphics and smooth gameplay. Roll on Alan Wake 2- this is a series that needs to continue.

Over the years Kailash and his band, Kailasa, have become the musical voice of Indian youth, regularly touring Indian universities and college campuses, attracting a loyal and increasingly influential 15-35 age fan base. When India’s youth went out on streets in support of Anna Hazare’s anti-corruption rallies last year, Kailash was one of the key public figures amongst them and lent his voice to the rousing anthem ‘Ambar Tak Yehi Naad Goonjege’.

This Easter, Kailash and concert promoter, Saregama Events, are reaching out to UK students, plus the estimated 43,000 Indian and more Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan students currently residing in the UK, by offering special student discounted tickets to Kailash’s Birmingham and Liverpool concerts as part of his first ever UK Tour which runs from April 4th – 9th, 2012.

Exclusive Student Discount Ticket Offer from

www.saregamaevents.com

If the Chippendales set the bar for naughty dancing men in tight pants it’s a shame that the Dreamboys couldn’t get it up any higher. Although the boys were, well, rather dreamy and good to look at, with pretty ripped pecs and compact six-packs, the show was disappointing. This wasn’t really the boys fault but rather the management style, with long waits in between each act, a lack of good choreography, and hackneyed play-acting involving the boys jumping off the stage in order to grab random women – without asking them. But the host was the worst I’ve ever come across, he wouldn’t stop talking rubbish, interspersed with awful jokes, and calling the (obviously) female audience ‘hoes’ and ‘bitches’ – charming. Whilst I was really looking forward to a great night out I really felt that I’d have been better off staying at home in front of the TV – especially if I’d had to fork out 23 quid for the privilege. Unfortunately, I wouldn’t recommend this show to anyone in it’s present incarnation, even if you’re on your hen night. Must try harder boys (and management).

Far from the flirty American support character seen in Guy Ritchie’s films, this Addler is essentially a smaller-scale, female Moriarty- she’s a real challenge for Holmes, and genuinely comes across as a threat. The main returning cast of Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman and Mark Gatiss are all excellent, with Gatiss now getting more screentime, and Cumberbatch giving Sherlock something very unusual indeed: depth. No longer JUST a “High-functioning sociopath”, Sherlock now seems to realise that A. his behaviour can rub people up the wrong way and B. he could well have some connection to Addler. Thankfully, this isn’t done through some sort of “soul-searching” or Sherlock being flooded with emotion but through what he already does: reading people. His new found “emotions” (I use the term loosely) are formed by seeing the effect he has on people, and acting accordingly.

After a slightly shaky start focusing on how Sherlock and John are now an internet sensation due to the latter’s blog, the episode evolves into a dark, gripping drama that feels like a natural continuation of the continuity Gatiss and Moffat have created. Next up is their take on “The Hound of the Baskervilles”, and if it’s anything like as good as this, you’ll all be in for a treat.

By James Lambert

Hosting the evening was Peter Aundre, the media star entertained the guests throughout the night with his humour and was pleased to introduce Lulu on stage to perform some of the most memorable hits. He said, ‘I’m so proud to have hosted the Battersea’s Collars and Coats Gala Ball. Battersea is an amazing charity that does incredible work to care for animals.’ Later we spoke about his plans for Christmas, he told us, ‘At this stage I’m suppose to have all three children so hopefully it will be amazing.’

The flamboyant Strictly judge, Craig Revel Horwood, may be an unlikely suspect of a dog’s best friend but he was on the carpet showing his support. He also, bit back against remarks Gary Barlow had passed about him in the media that week, Horwood said, ‘they need to gain a few more million viewers, don’t they, before they start spouting off… X Factor has stopped, sadly, being a talent competition.’

Made in Chelsea’s Cheska Hull escorted Nelly, her pet pooch to the ball. She told us about the fashion dos and don’ts when you’re dressing up your pup and explained that, ‘Nelly loves meeting lots of people.’ She went on to praise the charity, ‘I really believe in what they do, I love animals.’

Celebrity Hairdresser, Nikky Clarke spoke emotionally about his late Labrador Blossom and shared thoughts that Battersea ‘has been around forever and the work they do is so important’. Later, he jested that the Gala had given him an idea for his next TV show… Hold on to your pets!

Rosamund Hanson, Life’s too short actress and daughter of Daniel Hanson who donated two designer dresses to the event; arrived wearing a classic full length black dress from Top Shop saying ‘I love high street brands because I like a good value for money’. We spoke about her time doing Life’s Too Short with Ricky Gervais and Warwick Davies, she said, ‘They are jokers, great fun, they asked me to imagine I was a chimp on a skateboard on my first day.’ The actress also defended Gervais’ sometimes offensive comedy, ‘What the hell? It’s funny!’

Other exclusive clothes were donated by designers, Vivienne Westwood, Prada, Alexander McQueen and more. The guests also had the opportunity to bid for VIP access to Sir Paul McCartney’s show at the O2 Arena. The auction raised significant funds to aid Battersea’s work in rescuing and rehoming unwanted and abandoned cats and dogs.

This series is a brilliant fantasy epic, and revitalises the genre in a way not seen since Tolkien. There’s remarkably little in the way of magic and monsters, and instead the focus is on the characters. It really is the characters that are the book’s greatest strength, and it is a joy to watch them play off of each other. The story is written brilliantly, able to get around having the characters scattered across the nation by titling each chapter with a character’s name and putting the entire chapter at that character’s perspective. There’s nothing quite like seeing your favourite character’s name as a chapter title and knowing you’ll be getting a whole chapter of them. And when you finish that chapter, you realise that the next chapter’s character is also brilliant and read that one too! All in all, it’s a brilliant book, and I recommend it even if you’re not a fantasy fan.

Book 2: A Clash of Kings

This instalment, as the title suggests, is centred on the war that has erupted between the four different men who have claimed kingship. Of course, with war comes battles, and these are written exceedingly well. With the author’s style of putting all the focus on a single character at a time you really feel like you’re right in there with the soldiers. Magic is used with greater frequency, and the spells cast are all unique, and in some ways quite odd. The magic is done well and manages to feel like part of the world rather than being tacked over the top; however I found myself perplexed by the spell that required a woman to give birth to a shadow. Overall, an excellent second title, and certainly got me excited for the next!

Book 3: A Storm of Swords, Part 1: Steel and Snow

The third book is the longest so far, and for that reason has been split into two. This first one overlaps the second, showing what’s happening elsewhere during the final climactic battle of A Clash of Kings. Our focus is pushed north, as Bran rules in Winterfell while Robb is still in the south fighting. There are so many characters, and events happening in so many places, that I found myself grateful for the map and personae dramatis provided. We also see a lot more of Jon Snow, and many events happen north of the Wall. This instalment doesn’t have the climactic end of the other two, likely because it’s the first half of a novel. However, I was still enthralled with what was happening and rushed straight onto the second part to see what happens.

Depp plays Paul Kemp; hard-drinking attempted novelist and journalist from New York. He’s in Puerto Rico to find work at the flagging “San Juan Star”- a paper hardly anyone reads and those who do hate it. Starting off in horroscopes, Kemp is approached by Hal Sanderson (Aaron Eckhart) – a wealthy real estate mogul – with a crooked proposal that could make Kemp very rich at the cost of his integrity. The novel was based on Thompson’s own experiences as a sports reporter for a rapidly dying paper in Puerto Rico, and although I haven’t read the book, you can see the beginnings of the legend in Depp’s performance. He’s not in full-on shouting, skulking Raoul Duke mode, nor is he elegantly drunk, foppish Withnail- he’s somewhere in between: an angry young man coming to terms with how thoroughly corrupt the powers that be are, while often getting drunk and making an amusing fool of himself. Depp’s performance is definitely the heart of the film, and he’s on good form here- as he should be, given the subject matter.

As for the film itself, it’s a mixed bag. For the most part it can actually be compared to Depp’s performance; it’s often quite serious, but is peppered with funny scenes. Those expecting a new “Withnail and I” will be disappointed. This is definitely a good thing though- it raises above this to become its own film, and surprisingly given the general serious tone the humor doesn’t seem out of place. The other actors in the film don’t really stand out as such, but this isn’t a major problem as given the nature of Thompson’s work and personality his character ends up being the stand-out. They all do a good job, but it’s very much Depp’s show. That said, mention should be given to Molberg- the paper’s relgious affairs and crime corrospondent, who distills four hundred proof alcohol, threatens his boss and keeps a selection of Hitler speeches on vinyl. Generally the film is entertaining- it’s funny, eccentric and has a serious message about journalistic integrity, and the effect the rich and powerful can have on the media. However, the main negative point I have is the film’s ending. Without wishing to spoil anthing, it’s a pretty big anti-climax. It feels like the film just ran out of ideas at the end. It’s also a lot worse if you don’t know it’s coming, as nothing in the film suggests it will end that way. Another, smaller problem is that the film doesn’t go particularly far with it’s critique of the corrupt and greedy. They’re simply branded “bastards”, which while perhaps enough for those who have read the good Doctor’s work, it might seem shallow for those that haven’t.

Overall, “The Rum Diary” is a good film- it’s funny, serious, thoughtful and crazy, and manages to avoid being too much like “Fear and Loathing…” or “Withnail and I”, which is admirable. Despite a disappointing ending, it’s well worth watching; with enough of a Hunter S. Thompson feel to keep fans of his work happy, but not enough to alienate newcomers. It’s not as good as either “Withnail…” or “Fear and Loathing…”, but it’s still a good film in its own right.

***

Researchers from Yale University found exposure to radiation from mobiles during pregnancy affects the brain development of offspring, potentially leading to greater activity, anxiety and poor memory.

They concluded mobiles could have a negative effect on babies in the womb after studying pregnant mice. However, a group of British scientists have poured scorn on the study labeling it ‘alarmist and unjustified.’

They pointed out that the unborn mice would have received a dose of radiation that was proportionally far higher than an unborn baby would get. They added that while the whole bodies of the mice were exposed a pregnant woman would tend to hold their phone a metre away from their uterus.

The experts, from the University College of London, among others, added that a comparison is impossible between rodents and humans because mice are born after just 19 days with a brain that’s at a far earlier stage of development compared to human babies.

The introduction of the Yale study, published in the latest issue of the journal Scientific Reports, focuses on the rising number of ADHD cases in children, implying it could be linked to their research in mice.

ADHD is a development disorder characterised by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Between three and seven per cent of school-age children suffer from the disorder. Affected children tend to perform poorly at school and are at increased risk of delinquency.

Diagnosis has increased at an average rate of three per year since 1997, making the condition ‘a growing public concern,’ according to the scientists. The researchers measured the brain electrical activity of adult mice that were exposed to radiation as foetuses and conducted a series of psychological and behavioural tests.

They found that the mice that were exposed to radiation tended to be more hyperactive and had increased anxiety and reduced memory capacity.  Senior author Professor Hugh Taylor said: ‘We have shown that behavioural problems in mice that resemble ADHD are caused by mobile phone exposure in the womb.

‘The rise in behavioural disorders in human children may be in part due to foetal cellular telephone irradiation exposure.’ In the study the authors concluded human tests would be needed before ‘extrapolating these behavioural findings to humans.’  But Prof Taylor, who is a member of EHHI – an organisation ‘dedicated to protecting human health from environmental harms through research’  – added that limiting a foetus’ exposure to mobile phone radiation seemed warranted.

However, Professor Jim Stevenson from the University of Southampton denounced the study as ‘irresponsible.’  He told the UK charitable trust, Sense about Science: ‘There is to date only little evidence of an association,’ adding that no evidence from the latest mouse study supported the conjecture.

Professor Katya Rubia, from the Institute of Psychiatry at King’s College London, added that the link made between mice and humans was ‘alarmist and unjustified.’

She said the fact the exposed mice in the study were more active could not be translated to complex disorders such as ADHD. She pointed out that anxiety levels decreased in exposed mice whereas it is typically higher in children with ADHD. Professor Eric Taylor from King’s College London said the rate of ADHD problems has actually been steady for more than 20 years and any increase is most probably due to greater recognition of the disorder.

A spokesman from the Health Protection Agency, told Mail Online: ‘There is no hard scientific evidence that radio signals from mobile phones pose a risk to public health providing they are within ICNIRP (international body) guidelines.

‘Very many studies into the effects of radio waves on health have been published over the past several decades. The authors of this study acknowledge themselves that their work had certain limitations. ‘The Health Protection Agency constantly monitors and reviews this scientific research and will consider this study, along with other peer reviewed research, as part of that process.’

The latest controversial study comes just two years after scientists from the University of California, Los Angeles, found children exposed to mobile phones in the womb had a 30 per cent rise in behavioural difficulties at the age of seven. The study looked at 29,000 youngsters, but some British scientists said the findings could be due to lifestyle factors rather than mobiles. They pointed out that mothers glued to their mobiles may very well be less likely to interact as much with their children.

Article: 16th March 2012 www.dailymail.co.uk

A Thousand Words is the story of Jack McCall (Eddie Murphy), a slick, fast-talking Hollywood literary agent who clinches deals by fibbing. One day, Jack dares to fib to a New Age Guru, who in response curses McCall with a Bodhi tree in his own backyard. Each time Jack dares to open his mouth, one of the Bodhi’s 1,000 leaves will fall, and with its final deciduous drop, the tree will doom its owner to die.

A rather odd premise for a light-hearted comedy; an ultimatum deciding life and death has never been more flawed than in A Thousand Words. The film marks Murphy’s second collaboration with his Norbit director Brian Robbins. Just as Norbit caused audiences to recoil, A Thousand Words has a similar effect as typified motor-mouth Murphy is reduced to levels of mugging and gurning that would fit comfortably in an acting manifesto penned by Jim Carrey. With a banal message, wandering plot and hashed attempts to stress the importance of communication, A Thousand Words is guaranteed to be surmised in years to come by only one; Silence.

“I was funny once, right?”

One Star

But there is an exciting little culinary venture even in this most unlikely of places. Indigo isn’t just a particularly delightful shade of purple it’s also a gem of a restaurant nestled in Claverley Drive. Indigo serves classic Indian cuisine and I know what you’re thinking, ‘been there, eaten that.’ But don’t be so quick to write Indigo off. It’s the little touches that make this place so special. When you enter the restaurant you are greeted with a tray of dishes, giving you a taste of all the available sauces before you buy. So if you, like me, are a super fussy eater you don’t need to worry! You can taste test all your options before you order which besides giving you peace of mind, also wets your appetite for more.

People sling the term ‘great atmosphere’ and ‘exceptional service’ around a heck of a lot when talking about venues, but Indigo genuinely offers a welcoming and chilled out place to catch a bite. The staff are more than willing to deal with any awkward requests or questions which you have with a smile. (Trust me. I was a waitress. I KNOW how hard this can be!) And their attitude and obvious pride towards the food they serve is something to be applauded.

What else can I say? Great food, fabulous service and all the little touches that make your experience a memorable one. You will not be disappointed!

Project X, the inane party picture by Hangover producer Todd Phillips, is as vague in intent as its equally bizzare title would have audiences believe. The debut feature from director Nima Nourizadeh, Project X is the clash of two unfortunate trends. The former, an attempt to exploit cinemas ‘found-footage’ fad, whereby action is filmed first-hand as it occurs, and the latter, being TV’s surfeit of Skins based teen twaddle involving raucous sex, reckless consumption and a consummate indie soundtrack.

Project X is, predictably, the story of three high-schoolers yearning to rise the top of the social heap and lose their virginity to boot. Thomas (Thomas Mann), predictably, is pining for the popular girl, meanwhile pal J.B (Jonathan Daniel Brown) is also predictably seeking sex, whilst Costa (Oliver Cooper) rounds off our threesome by predictably seizing the opportunity to throw a party when Thomas’ parents leave town for the weekend.

With its wafer-thin narrative, the direction of events in Project X are neither difficult to predict, nor worth investment by the human subconscious. Inevitably, Project X, the ultimate party, descends into chaos and had this event been constructed with any form of wit or invention, one might be able to bear this over-long comedy. Instead, Nourizadeh’s film clings steadfastly to every cliché about teens conceived, whilst also making teens seem more asinine than ever. One thing’s for certain, this party is certainly no rager.

“We did it boys! We upheld a tedious stereotype!”

One Star