Since February, you've listened to Nowhere to Run — aka Glenn Porter and Sixties Sarah — dive into music from five decades ago on 4ZZZ's airwaves. Now you can do more than listen, by attending the launch of their first '60s club night. That's right, the gang that has guided your tour of R'n'B, soul, northern, freakbeat and garage sounds wants you to groove along with all your friends at the Bearded Lady. If you've ever wished that a radio playlist would come to life — and who hasn't? — well, here's your chance to see that dream become a reality. Nowhere to Run will bring the music that you know and love, or they'll open your ears to great tunes from times gone by if you haven't been following their on-air exploits. All you need to bring is your dancing shoes — '60s-style, of course. Dressing up isn't mandatory, but when you have the opportunity to get into the swing of all things mini or mod, we say go for it.
Prepare to step inside the mind of a cinematic genius. It’s a big call, sure, but when it comes to David Lynch, it’s true. No one makes movies quite like the man who brought us Eraserhead, Blue Velvet and Mulholland Drive, and we mean no one. As part of the David Lynch: Between Two Worlds exhibition and his accompanying visit to Brisbane, the Gallery of Modern Art is diving deep into his distinctive audiovisual catalogue, screening every feature he has ever made. That means you can watch the sci-fi flick he took his name off of, Dune; his Palme d’Or winner, Wild at Heart; and his old-man-on-a-lawnmower tale, The Straight Story — and that’s only the beginning of a very eclectic bunch of movies. Reaching beyond the obvious stuff to the obscure as well, nine programs of short films will show his abridged slices of absurdity, covering almost 50 years of his career. Documentaries will delve into his films, art, fondness for meditation and a Duran Duran concert. Yes really. And then there’s the thing we’ve all been waiting for: the chance to see the two-hour Twin Peaks pilot episode as well as the series’ horror sequel/prequel Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me, on the big screen. BYO damn fine cup of coffee.
There's only one place in Brisbane that serves Mac Daddy burgers filled with mac 'n' cheese. Well, three if you count Miss Kay's different stores in the CBD, Mitchelton and Woolloongabba. Whether the Kris Kross joke came first, or the idea for a macaroni and dairy-filled burg, we don't care — when you're going to put cheesy pasta between two slices of bread, no one does. The pop culture-themed, American-style diner's concoction also features a beef patty, American cheese, lettuce, sweet barbecue sauce, mayo and fries; however jump jumping for its other ingredient is understandable. Cheese lovers can also enjoy a poutine burg with haloumi, or a good ol' fashioned cheeseburger of the single or double variety.
Paris, oh Paris. What with your cobblestone streets, your heavenly, heavenly bakeries, your old men playing the accordion on the street, your ridiculously difficult but seductive language… you’re pretty good at, well, everything I guess. You’re not very good at sharing the wealth though. Until now. Paris, the center of the Surrealist art movement, has an extensive collection of surrealist art works at one of the world’s best museums of modern and contemporary art – the Musée national d’art moderne, in Paris’ iconic Centre Pompidou. They’re bringing 180 surrealist works by 56 artists over to the GoMA for ‘Surrealism: The Poetry of Dreams’, which will be on show from June through to October. There’ll be paintings, sculptures, ‘surrealist objects’, films, photographs, drawings and collages, displaying a historical overview of the Surrealist movement since its discovery in the early 20s. The Gallery of Modern Art is the exclusive Australian venue for the exhibition – thanks Paris! Brisbane owes ya one - the Four and Twenty meat pies are in the post.
A hard-earned thirst needs a big cold beer, a particular advertising campaign has told drinkers for decades. On January 11, satisfy your hankering for a beverage with an icy pint from a place that knows all about the big cold — yep, Bloodhound Bar are showcasing Ægir Bryggeri, one of Norway's finest. Ten different brews will be available, either separately or in paddles for those wanting to try quite a few. They're calling it a ten-tap takeover, with the likes of Rallar (amber ale), Witbier, Bæver (a double white IPA, made in collaboration with Beavertown, UK) and Tors Hammer (barley wine) on offer. We're calling it travelling to Scandinavia without leaving Fortitude Valley. Haven't heard of Ægir Bryggeri? Here's a primer: they hail from the town of Flåm about five hours north-west of Oslo, and their Norse Viking style brewpub is nestled into the famous Flåmsbrygga Hotel. In fact, they're part of one of the area's biggest attractions — partly because they make mighty fine, award-winning beer; and partly because their building includes dragon heads and a nine-metre chimney.
Justine Clarke is Australia’s answer to children’s entertainment, and is preparing to “pop up” for a pre-Christmas show at QPAC. Justine will be bringing her pop up book theme to life on the stage, where she’ll share the stories we tell through music and song. Among these will be a musical reading of Justine’s first book The Gobbledygook Is Reading A Book which was released in October. Combining the stories and songs with live music, and the interactive large screen backdrop, Justine will have audiences engaged throughout the 55-minute musical of fun. There are group discounts available for groups of 6 or more people, and children under the age of one year are free on the knee. This is a one-day-only show with two sittings, so don’t miss out.
Who is Kanye Lens? Well, he sure as cuss isn't an egomaniac rapper. In fact, Kane 'Kanye Lens' Hibberd may be one of the greatest music festival photographers in Australia, and his latest publication 'Kanye Lens vs. Soundwave' is your first point of evidence. In 450 pages and with over 600 images this book archives everything amazing from Soundwave you missed, either because you were a touch intoxicated, or busy trying to work out how old the chick on that guy’s shoulders was. Admittedly, even if you were sober and concentrating, there was a lot going on at Soundwave, from the incredible live bands, to the assortment of characters who passed through the gates. Len's quirky and over-exposed photography is the all access pass to this festival from the shutter-view of a genius. In this month of April get yourself down to Lust for Life Tattoo and indulge in some tasty shots of the ins and outs of this great festival. And the best thing about this exhibit – there won't be a Karadashian in sight.
Take a deep dive into the wondrous cinematic worlds of Wes Anderson — symmetry, quirkiness, pastel cinematography and all. From Thursday, February 4–Wednesday, February 24, Dendy Coorparoo is falling head over heels for the acclaimed director's work. The series is called Fantastic Mr Wes: A Wes Anderson Retrospective, because of course it is. Film buffs can enjoy Anderson's distinctive visual stylings, compelling soundtracks and all-star casts, with the eastside venue playing different flicks multiple times across the three-week period. First up, catch 1996 crime-comedy Bottle Rocket, followed by the Jason Schwartzman-led hit Rushmore, the family dramas of The Royal Tenenbaums and the stop-motion animation delight that is Fantastic Mr Fox. Also on the bill: The Darjeeling Limited (which'll help you vicariously indulge your wanderlust), The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou (if you feeling like wearing matching tracksuits with your movie date) and Isle of Dogs (because no one does animated canines like Anderson) — plus Moonrise Kingdom's tale of young love and the exceptionally cast The Grand Budapest Hotel as well. Fingers crossed that 2021 is the year we all finally get to see Anderson's latest, the pandemic-delayed The French Dispatch, too. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rs7mIoG8ffI
It doesn't snow in Brisbane. It doesn't really get all that cold in winter either. But, until the chilliest season on the annual calendar is over for this year, Brisbanites can still walk through snow, build a snowman and make snowballs — all by heading to Springfield. No, the weather won't be extra frosty just in the westside suburb. No, we're not living in a Hollywood disaster movie. Rather, Snow4Kids is returning for 2021. The idea is simple: this winter wonderland will bring a heap of real snow to the Orion Shopping Centre, then let anyone with a $20 ticket frolic through it, with the space open daily from 9.30am–4.30pm between Saturday, June 19–Sunday, July 11. This is a family-friendly event, as the name gives away. If you have littlies to bring along, that'll be welcome news. If you're an adult without any kids in tow, you're still able to head along — but the organisers ask that you be mindful of the fact that you'll have plenty of pint-sized company. Also: no snowball fights.
Thanks to the joys of film festivals, discovering the wonders of a far-flung corner of the globe is only as difficult as heading to your local cinema. This time, Serbia gets its time in the spotlight, in the 15th annual event dedicated to encouraging, promoting and exhibiting Serbian art forms to Australian audiences. With the Serbian Film Festival boasting more than 100 films in its program over the past decade and a half, the 2015 lineup promises another array of gems. In Brisbane, that includes six features and two documentaries. The applauded Enclave gets things started — aka the opening night pick and Serbia's entry in the foreign-language category at the 2016 Academy Awards. Elsewhere, you can learn about the famous Yugoslav Basketball School in We Will Be World Champions, delve into the personal consequences of the 1999 bombing of Belgrade in The Sky Above Us, take a documentary look at the lives of illegal immigrants in Destination Serbistan, or uncover an account of the lawyer of the instigator of the First World War in The Man Who Defended Gavrilo Princip. Either way, this isn't just a film festival — it's a movie-based journey through Serbian culture and history.
You've probably heard of CollegeHumor, and we don't just mean the bad jokes everyone seems to make when they set foot on a university campus. We're talking about the website founded by two high school friends back in 1999. Today, it's home to some of the internet's funniest and most offbeat content — and the source of much time wasted by those who love to laugh. It's also where comedians Jake Hurwitz and Amir Blumenfeld got their start, though you might know them from their Jake & Amir web series turned TV show. Fellow funny man Streeter Seidell cut his comedy teeth in the site's sketch team, came to fame through his Prank Wars videos, and now he's writing for Saturday Night Live. The trio is travelling down under for the very first time, sharing the CollegeHumor love and telling their stories. You'll laugh, and you'll see rising comic stars in action. Australia’s Josh & Steve, from Channel [V]’s Free Shit Men and Magic 8 Ball, are also on the bill, for those keen on watching some homegrown emerging talent.
Sydney's home of perfect-for-every-occasion artisanal gifts Sorry Thanks I Love You (STILY) has been hosting free in-store yoga classes for the past four years. Now, with the closure of gyms across the country and increased social distancing, it's bringing them online. And, yes, they'll still be free. Running every Monday night at 6pm AEDT (for the foreseeable future), the Instagram live classes will be streamed on STILY's Instagram page and hosted by Misch Gomez. They'll run for an hour and give you a chance to wind down and get out of that Twitter hole (at least temporarily). If you don't have a mat, you can even roll out a towel — and get ready to get bendy. A benefit of doing the class at home, as STILY has pointed out, is that there's "no one noticing if you pause to take a sip of your gin and tonic". Well, except your cat, dog or green baby. [caption id="attachment_739127" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joey Clark[/caption] Top image: Rita Ince
In the film that brought her global acclaim, Australian filmmaker Jennifer Peedom climbed up in the world — and she hasn't looked back. Sherpa explored tense times on Mount Everest, while her next documentary Mountain pondered the world's highest peaks, their beauty and their allure. With River after that, Peedom didn't stare at towering land masses. But she does peer from great heights at waterways that snake across continents. And, she once again teamed up with none other than Willem Dafoe (Poor Things), who narrates this poetic musing on just how rivers shape the planet. Watching River itself is a meditative experience, because looking at absolutely stunning sights shot in 39 countries, listening to lyrical narration, and hearing a stirring score featuring Bach, Ravel, Jonny Greenwood, Radiohead and more has that effect. Making the movie even better is River Live in Concert with the Australian Chamber Orchestra, which returns for another nationwide tour in 2024, this time with Indigenous Australian didgeridoo player and vocalist William Barton joining in. The ACO and Barton will play the film's soundtrack right there in front of you as you watch. Brisbanites can get in on the action on Monday, February 12 at QPAC's Concert Hall. Event images: Nick Walker.
Some Saturday nights, all you want to do is put on your dancing shoes, head to a darkened room and show off your fanciest footwork to a selection of songs from times gone by. Black Bear Lodge understands this, which is why they've devoted this Saturday night to doing just that. At Watch Your Step, hitting the dance floor and strutting your stuff to '50s and '60s tracks is the only thing on the agenda. Actually, there's one more thing of importance at this rock and soul night. The music isn't the only thing jumping back decades, with the format kickin' it old school as well. Yep, these toe-tapping tunes will all be played off of vinyl, with the UK's DJ Phil Istine giving the turntables a rather thorough workout. His record collection is your ultimate party soundtrack, and it'll be paired with a light show of psychedelic projections. Now that's how you step back in time.
UPDATE, September 24, 2020: On the Basis of Sex is available to stream via Binge, Foxtel Now, Google Play and YouTube Movies. For the second time in the past year, Ruth Bader Ginsburg graces the silver screen. On the Basis of Sex might come hot on the heels of 2018's Oscar-nominated documentary RBG, but this won't be the last time its subject gets the cinema treatment. The celebrated US Supreme Court Justice also pops up as a mini-figure in The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part, which sums up her current status — Ginsburg isn't just one of America's current top judges, or a pioneering legal champion, but a pop culture icon as well. As the years keep passing, filmmakers will keep telling her tale, simply because there's just that much to tell. The first dramatised version of Ginsburg's life, On the Basis of Sex focuses on her early career, but consider it merely the beginning in several senses of the word. Before achieving her current professional and popular standing, as well as her 'Notorious RBG' nickname, Ginsburg (Felicity Jones) was one of the first women accepted into Harvard Law School. But while she shared the top spot in her graduating class — a feat she managed while helping her unwell husband Martin (Armie Hammer) through his legal studies and raising the couple's children — job offers didn't follow. In 50s and 60s America, firms were openly reluctant to hire a female attorney. It's this type of engrained, everyday sexism that steels Ginsburg for the battle that she's now synonymous with. Rallying against legislation that discriminates on the basis of sex, Ginsburg made her name crusading for gender equality, as director Mimi Leder (Pay It Forward) and screenwriter Daniel Stiepleman (the Justice's nephew) chronicle. On the Basis of Sex could've drawn from decades of material, however narrowing the film's focus is a savvy choice. So is highlighting one particular 1972 case, where Charles Moritz (Chris Mulkey) was denied a tax refund for costs related to caring for his ailing mother. With Ruth largely ignored in her quest to expose the inequitable standing of women, both Ginsburgs knew they had something special when they discovered a man being overlooked and discriminated against in the same way. It was her first case of its kind, but the fact that the future judge made a splash with this matter — fighting for a man taking on a traditionally female task — makes an enormous, damning statement about US society at the time. There's much that incites anger in On the Basis of Sex, from the dismissive treatment meted out to Ginsburg time and time again, to the male-dominated domain that she's forced to navigate — an attitude that wasn't just widely accepted, but was solidified in law. There's much in the movie that inspires, too, not only including Ginsburg herself, but her marriage with Martin. Leder proves patient and poignant with her direction, displaying immense reverence for Ginsburg, all that she's faced and everything that she represents, yet never feeling the need to over-stress the importance of the future judge's achievements. The narrative's details do the talking, while the craft of the film remains restrained and respectful. It's the standard broad, celebratory biopic framework, complete with gentle pacing, warm hues and handsome imagery, but in recreating the life of someone with such quiet, commanding power, it works. This may be a prestige portrait through and through, but it's effective. The fact that the movie's central double-act thoroughly hit their marks also assists. Jones brings determination and assurance to her starring part, Hammer plays Martin as thoughtfully aware of the challenges blighting his wife's career, and together they make a winning team through the story's ups and downs. While it's infuriating that it took a man's case to spark Ginsburg's rise to prominence, the support that she receives from Martin doesn't evoke the same response. Crucially, however, this isn't a tale about a noble man standing behind a great woman, but of a partnership that helped Ruth overcome obstacles that were never even an issue for her husband. Of course, On the Basis of Sex never forgets who its paying tribute to, not even for a moment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtzesNEmVhs
Feel like you've experienced every date option that Brisbane has to offer? Run out of new ways to spend an ace night with your mates? If glitz, glamour, drinks, dinner and feeling like you're in a speakeasy several decades ago sound like your idea of a good time, then make a beeline to Cloudland's Big Band Cabaret dinner and show. Taking place in the Valley venue's Rose Room, the decadent shindig will have you and your loved one tapping your toes to live tunes, and lapping up burlesque performances. And, you'll do all of the above while eating your way through a three-course meal and enjoying a three-hour package of beer, wine and sparkling. The event has been such a hit over the last couple of years, it's no wonder that Cloudland keeps bringing it back. The next dinner-and-show combos happen from 6.30pm on Friday, October 8 and Friday, October 29 — with Lulu Lemans and Brad Leaver's Swing Central on the bill. Tickets are limited, in line with current COVID-19 restrictions. They aren't cheap either, at $119 per person. Still, this party is certain to liven up your Friday night with something more than a little different. Top image: Cloudland. Updated October 5.
Although we're now heading into autumn, the team at Audio Collective are keen to squeeze the last little bit of fun out of the warm weather. They are hosting a night of great local music and wait for it... a pool party! Located in the Valley's Coniston Lane, Audio Collective have organised the tunes and the inflatable sea creatures. On the killer line up is the gorgeous Wafia (pictured) whose music is inspired by the tender sounds of Bon Iver. Wafia injects her folk music with a bit of minimal electronic goodness to bring you a perfectly rounded mix of old and new. Andrew Markwell, Love Signs, Youth Allowance and Oyster Sauce will all be keeping the live music flowing. Audio Collective DJs are keen to get wet and wild and keep the party vibe pumping into the wee hours. Bands start at 8.30pm til midnight. Bring your floaties and head to Coniston Lane for a night filled with music and mayhem.
2019 represents one giant milestone for humanity's space exploits, marking half a century since astronauts first walked on the moon. That's just one of the achievements that the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration, aka NASA, is known for — and it's just one of the events that'll feature in a new exhibition chronicling the organisation's jaunts beyond the earth's surface, which heads to Australia this year NASA – A Human Adventure will display at the Queensland Museum in not only its first trip to our shores, but its only Aussie season. It's set to be huge in a number of ways. The exclusive showcase will bring more than 250 historically significant items to Brisbane, and it'll run for a whopping seven months. It'll also be the largest exhibition ever hosted by the newly refurbished South Bank spot, taking over two levels. Gracing QM's walls and halls between March 15 and October 9, NASA – A Human Adventure will feature everything from objects that actually have flown through space, to high-fidelity models, to both small-size and full-scale replicas. Think real rocket engines, space food, space suits, lunar cameras and moon boots, plus miniature versions of NASA's Space Shuttle, Lunar Rover, and Mercury, Gemini and Apollo space crafts. Touching on the Soviet contribution to space travel as well, it'll also display a replica of the robotic lunar rover Lunokhod. Australia is the latest stop in the exhibition's tour, which aims to showcase the story of space travel, as well as the history of rocket science and space flight. It comes to Brisbane after previously venturing to Milan, Singapore, Taipei, Seoul, Bangkok, Tokyo, Istanbul, Madrid, Utrecht, and both Stockholm and Norrkoping in Sweden. NASA – A Human Adventure displays at the Queensland Museum, corner of Grey and Melbourne Streets, South Brisbane from March 15 to October 9, 2019, with tickets on sale now.
The term 'best of both worlds' certainly applies to beer yoga. Exercise, alcohol — what's not to love? And we'll all just happily overlook the fact that one counteracts the other because simultaneously sipping and stretching is just so much fun. Brisbane's latest batch of brew-fuelled active sessions boast a little something extra, however. When you're doing your best downward-facing dog and then pausing to take a drink, you'll be doing all of the above in a brewery. Just join the folks at Ballistic Beer Co. fortnightly on Thursdays, with the next sessions happening on October 31, November 14 and 28, and December 12 and 26. You'll want to head to its Salisbury digs, and arrive at 5.45pm for a 6pm start. It'll only set you back $15, which includes the class and a Ballistic beer — and it's a BYO yoga mat situation. Updated October 30.
This Toronto-based quartet are bringing their special breed of indie electronica to the Forum for one night only this December. Emily Haines is undoubtedly one of today’s greatest frontwomen, and her tenacity has in no way wavered since Metric's inception in 1998. Five albums and a handful of film scores later, Metric continue to perform to sold out arenas and headline music festivals all over the world. Metric have mastered the ability to convey contrasting emotions through their music; at times they are outspoken and aggressive, and at others vulnerable and tired from the fight. It is their highly identifiable sound of new wave synth combined with indie rock that unifies their music despite its thematic variation. This uncompromising sound is what has made them stand out and survive while trending genres have rotated around them. See them perform at The Tivoli this Wednesday.
10x10 is a youth- and volunteer-led organisation encouraging the next generation to get involved in philanthropy. How it does this, however, is a little different — it raises money for charities by hosting interactive, live crowdfunding events. And it's next one is happening in Brisbane on Thursday, November 15. The organisation was started four years ago by a group of young people who wanted to make a difference. Since then, it has raised over $1.4 million for 129 different charities across Australia, UK, Hong Kong and the USA. The events — which are held biannually in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide — are broken into three parts. First, you head to 10x10's ticketing website to make a pledge of $100 or more (this amount will be converted into "Charity Dollars" and is also your ticket). Next, you rock up to the event, where three different start-up charities will pitch their causes to the crowd. Finally, you decide what charity you want your pledge, or "Charity Dollars", to go to and bam — a little more goodness is created in the world and a charity nabs some much-needed funds. You'll also have the chance to sip wine, snack on complimentary bites and chat to like-minded, philanthropic folk at the event. So think of it as a fundraiser-meets-cocktail party (without the starched collars and ballgowns). If you feel any of these are more in need of your dollars than you and your avocado toast (they are), get amongst it — you can learn about the pitching charities and make your tax-deductible pledges here. To learn more about the charity, visit 10x10 Philanthropy.
Take a kid or several, then add a skill to be mastered and a feat to be overcome. Next, paint the protagonists as underdogs, and show synchronicity between their efforts and the act of growing up. It worked in 1980s fantasies Labyrinth and The NeverEnding Story — and the adventures of The Goonies too. The approach trickled through the baseball-themed The Sandlot Kids and the hockey-centric The Mighty Ducks trilogy in the 1990s. Circa 2000s, the espionage antics of Spy Kids and the wizardry of the Harry Potter films followed the formula. Now comes the locally made Paper Planes, a feature for a new generation of childhoods yet one that feels ripped from all others that came before. As the title suggests, the age-old pastime of creating plane-like shapes out of paper provides the movie with its premise. In this activity that anyone can enjoy, one ordinary child finds a new ability, chases glory, and circles a solution to his adolescent problems. Yes, it is supposed to sound familiar. No, it is not supposed to be subtle. Twelve-year-old Dylan (Ed Oxenbould) is the Western Australian kid in the spotlight, often left to his own devices by his grieving father (Sam Worthington) and deemed different in his country class but soon anointed with the promise of something more. A simple schoolroom lesson unlocks his knack for folding and throwing paper planes, a talent his teacher (Peter Rowsthorn) encourages. With the help of a bully turned best pal (Julian Dennison) and his cheeky grandpa (Terry Norris), Dylan sets his sights on national and international championships. By design, the path plotted by writer/director Robert Connolly and co-scribe Steve Worland isn't difficult to discern. In his coming-of-age quest of trying to triumph in the paper plane arena, Dylan encounters an adversary (Nicholas Bakopoulos-Cooke) and makes a new friend (Ena Imai); however, being comfortable in his own skin and repairing the relationship with his dad are more important outcomes. With magical realism and hearty humour bubbling through the film in abundance, Paper Planes endeavours to offer the same joyful jaunt for all ages that helped fellow homegrown efforts Babe and Red Dog achieve success – and with the same penchant for striking backdrops and broad performances, too. Well-meaning cheesiness, as seen in repeated sequences of planes rocketing past outback landscapes, and earnest portrayals of stereotypical characters acting as expected (including brief appearances by Deborah Mailman and David Wenham) are what the feature is made of. Alas, it is nostalgia, not enchantment, that keeps Paper Planes flying, if never quite soaring. Think back to the feel-good movies of your youth, because Connolly obviously has. Simplicity, sweetness and sticking to the well-worn script are the main aims of his Australian fable, and ones attained with the biggest blast of old-fashioned exuberance the filmmaker – and the film – can muster.
Film fans — pack your picnics, pillows and insect repellent, and prepare to spend your summer evenings watching the big screen under the stars. From December 1, Moonlight Cinema returns for another season of great viewing, great weather (hopefully) and great food. Yep — here, all three go hand-in-hand. Kicking off in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide at the very start of the month, then heading to Perth from December 2 and Brisbane from December 7, the first part of this year's program — covering December and January — features 21 advanced screenings of movies yet to hit cinemas, 25 new releases and a heap of old favourites. The February and March lineup will be revealed early next year, but rest assured, there's something for all tastes on the current bill. If you're after an early glimpse at an exciting upcoming flick, then Guillermo del Toro's gorgeous monster romance The Shape of Water, the Greta Gerwig-directed Lady Bird and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, the latest movie by In Bruges filmmaker Martin McDonagh, should all do nicely. Those who'd like to catch an openair session of efforts already screening in cinemas can pick from the likes of Justice League, Murder on the Orient Express, Detroit, Thor: Ragnarok, The Mountain Between Us and Star Wars: Episode VIII — The Last Jedi (once it's released on December 14). And, if you've got the urge for something retro, make a date with Love Actually, Dirty Dancing, The Breakfast Club or Back to the Future. Also featured are sneak peeks of everything from Pitch Perfect 3, to new Pixar animation Coco, to Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks in Steven Spielberg's The Post. Or, if you're a fan of Australian cinema, check out Kylie Minogue and Guy Pearce reuniting post-Neighbours for Swinging Safari; the absolutely stunning new outback western Sweet Country; and what sounds like an Aussie-as comedy, The BBQ. Pairing your movie choice with something to eat and drink is all part of the fun, so BYO supplies (although bringing your own booze isn't allowed in Brisbane) or grab something tasty onsite. MOONLIGHT CINEMA 2017-18 DATES: Sydney: December 1 – April 1 (Belvedere Amphitheatre in Centennial Park) Melbourne: December 1 – April 1 (Central Lawn at Royal Botanic Gardens) Brisbane: December 7 – March 4 (New Farm Park at Brisbane Powerhouse) Adelaide: December 1 – February 18 (Botanic Park) Perth: December 2 – April 1 (Kings Park and Botanic Garden) Moonlight Cinema's 2017-18 season starts screening around the country from December 1. For more information and to buy tickets, visit moonlight.com.au.
With the government encouraging social distancing, and enforcing mandatory 14-day self-isolation periods for everyone arriving from overseas, in a bid to slow the spread of COVID-19, plenty of us are staring down the barrel of a whole lot of time spent at home. By now, you're probably all stocked up on toilet paper, are armed with a banging Netflix queue and have sussed out all the best delivery options for decent food and booze. But, alongside the streaming services and board games, you're also going to need a pretty solid collection of reading material to keep you entertained. And luckily, some local bookstores are more than happy to help. If you're keen to support the little, local guys, there's a bunch of indie book retailers that are now offering free delivery services, to hook isolated readers up with some much-needed literature. In Melbourne, long-running North Carlton spot The Little Bookroom has kicked off free same-day delivery for its online orders, servicing Carlton, Fitzroy and a heap of surrounding suburbs. Sibling store Neighbourhood Books in Northcote is following suit, though with an even bigger delivery area. And if you're cooped up at home over on the westside, Yarraville's Sun Bookshop has you covered. It's offering free same-day book delivery (for online orders placed before 2pm) to readers in Kingsville, Seddon and Yarraville, and next-day delivery for those in Spotswood and Newport. They'll drop your book order in the letter box or at your front door, and shoot a text message to let you know it's arrived. https://www.instagram.com/p/B9n100rAhcz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link Meanwhile, Sydneysiders can get books delivered for free by the likes of Avalon Beach's Bookoccino (if you live between Narrabeen and Palm Beach) and Glebe's Gleebooks, which has launched free book delivery across the inner west and City of Sydney council areas, and Australia-wide for orders over $50. Newtown favourite Better Read Than Dead has cast the net even wider, offering free shipping across the whole of Australia for the foreseeable future. And up in Brisbane, Wynnum cafe-bookstore Little Gnome is doing daily delivery runs of books, brownies and even coffee, from 8–10am this week (check its Instagram for updates and details on how to order), while Avid Reader Bookshop is swinging free delivery for select inner-city suburbs, and Australia-wide if your order's over $50.
A charming portrait of two lonely hearts who connect across a city of more than 20 million people, Ritesh Batra's debut feature feels worlds away from a stereotypical Indian melodrama. As a matter fact, were it not for the setting, the language and the mouth-watering shots of local cuisine, you might very well mistake it for Nora Ephron's You've Got Mail. The epistolary romance is hardly a new genre; Ephron's film was itself a modernised remake of the classic Hollywood rom-com The Shop Around the Corner. But Batra infuses The Lunchbox with a distinctively Indian flavour, through his clever incorporation of Mumbai's famously efficient dabbawallas — hard-working couriers who transport freshly cooked lunches to offices all around the city. It's through a one-in-a-million mix-up that curmudgeonly accountant Saajan (Irrfan Khan) receives a meal cooked by neglected housewife Ila (Nimrat Kaur). The lunch was meant for her husband, but Saajan proves a far more grateful diner. So the next day Ila sends a note to accompany the food, thanking her mystery costumer for his appreciation. He replies, and slowly they begin a correspondence, bonding over mutual feelings of loneliness and personal regret. Documentary-style footage chronicles the daily journey of the lunchbox, from doorstep to bicycle, railway platform to high-rise. Every delivery brings the two battered souls closer together, while the food — and the cooking process — takes on a quality that's almost sensual. Batra demonstrates beautiful restraint in his slow, steady development of Saajan and Ila's relationship, an unacknowledged romance in which we soon grow heavily invested. The poignancy of the blossoming love story is balanced by other, platonic relationships. As Saajan counts down the days towards his retirement, he's forced to help train his eager young replacement (Nawazuddin Siddiqui). But what starts as a chore soon evolves into a begrudging sort of friendship. Their odd-couple bond is mirrored by the one between Ila and her neighbour, who shouts recipe and relationship advice through the window of the apartment above. Fundamentally, The Lunchbox is a film about unlikely human connections, and the unexpected happiness they can bring. Endearing characters give substance to the formulaic plot and make Batra's debut feature a satisfying cinematic meal. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Qdn6nVJHyfM
The unnerving talents and complex family ties of The Kransky Sisters are back for more laughs, inappropriate anecdotes and creative instrumentals, hosted by Brisbane’s Powerhouse. The most popular and recognised musical talents are the inspiration for their musical repertoire, however it would seem that those who know the least about such musicians and artists as Beyonce, Pink Floyd and AC/DC comprise The Kransky Sisters. They learned by listening to the “wireless” at home, which are sometimes faulty and interrupted thanks to the wavering reception in their hometown, Esk. These sheltered ladies are left to their own devices, interpreting popular songs in any way they see fit, often applying these meanings to personal stories of their unusual and tumultuous family dynamic. Nevertheless, their faithful 1958 Morris Major is back from the auto repair shop, they’ve got their home-made website up and running and they’ve freshly tuned their musical saw, tuba, pots and pans and are on their way for what is sure to be an unforgettably eventful evening.
Joining the lengthy list of Brisbane organisations, venues and groups throwing their support behind bushfire relief fundraising efforts, Howard Smith Wharves is dedicating Saturday, February 8 to this immensely worthy cause. On offer is an afternoon and evening of live music, food, drinks, lawn games, table tennis and hanging out on the grass at the riverside precinct, with 100 percent of the proceeds being donated to WIRES, the NSW Rural Fire Service, and the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services. From midday, Helping Heroes on the Lawn will feature roving entertainment, performances by Samantha Jade and Alfie Arcuri, and pop-up bars serving up Pimms, Aperol spritzes and Moët — plus tasty bites from food trucks CharKOR BBQ, Barcelona Churros and How We Rolls. That's in addition to HSW's usual lineup of places to eat and drink. Felons Brewing Co is donating all profits from sales of its Natural Ale in January and February anyway, and it'll have its fire truck out pouring the tipple in question on the day. Foodback Australia will also be in attendance, manning drop-off stations — so you can donate canned and dry goods to help those who need it.
When Welcome to Bowen Hills was first announced, the new permanent food truck hub promised to drive a truckload of deliciousness into Brisbane's food scene — not only courtesy of their regular meals-on-wheels lineup, but via its special events as well. It's safe to say that the space has delivered over the past year. Case in point: its returning rosé and cheese festival. Pink vino lovers and gooey dairy fiends, prepare to head just north of the CBD on Saturday, February 23 for a whole day dedicated to quite the culinary pairing. You'll drink the tipple in question. You'll eat oh-so-much cheese. It's simple really. The local winery list is still be to announced, but it'll be different from 2018. If you thinking that you can skip it because you went last year, think again. Food-wise, prepare for another feast of cheesy goodness. Fingers crossed that flaming cheese wheels, raclette burgers and deep-fried camembert all make a return, ready to be washed down with local and international pink-hued tipples, including frosé.
As part of the flurry of new streaming services competing for our eyeballs, FanForce TV joined the online viewing fold during the COVID-19 pandemic — with the pay-per-view platform not only screening movies, but pairing them with virtual Q&A sessions as well. Now, between Thursday, May 27–Monday, May 31 it's also hosting an online film fest: its third Virtual Indigenous Film Festival. The returning event coincides with National Reconciliation Week, and will showcase five films: High Ground, After the Apology, The Skin of Others, The Xrossing and Firestarter — The Story of Bangarra. That means you can watch your way through an array of Aussie movies focused on Indigenous stories, spanning both dramas and documentaries — and exploring race relations in the process. Sessions will also feature guest speakers, with just who'll be chatting yet to be revealed. And, viewers can tune in on a film-by-film basis, or buy an all-access pass to tune into everything. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3REMs9I9Tg Top image: High Ground.
What do Clive Palmer, Les Murray, Regurgitator’s Quan and nudity all have in common? They will all be making an appearance at this year’s Queensland Poetry Festival. This unlikely mix is just a taste of the diverse, innovative program on offer at the state’s premier event for all things poetic arts. New festival co-directors David Stavanger and Anne-Marie Te Whiu have brought their discipline-crossing, boundary-pushing vision to showcasing the artform through sessions such as a groundbreaking collaboration between the 2015 Arts Queensland Poet-in-Residence Kate Durbin and the Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts, a ‘low fi dystopian sci-fi musical’ with TISM’s Damian Cowell, and the Queensland final of the 2015 Australian Poetry Slam competition. And, of course, the first-ever naked open mic poetry reading session — clothes optional for the audience. The 2015 Queensland Poetry Festival will take place from August 28 to 30 at the Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts.
What do John Williams' Star Wars theme, Alan Silvestri's compositions in The Avengers, and Hans Zimmer and Lisa Gerrard's score for Gladiator all have in common? When you hear each and every one, they instantly transport you into the world of their respective films. That's what a good piece of movie music does — whether or not the accompanying images are playing in front of you. On Saturday, April 24, all of the above pieces will also echo through QPAC's Concert Hall, with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra putting on a show dedicated to movie heroes and heroines. You won't be watching the relevant flicks, but rather soaking in their sounds as they're all played live. Other highlights include tracks from movies as diverse as My Neighbour Totoro, The Incredibles and Captain Marvel — and The Imitation Game, The Man From Snowy River and Miss Marple as well. QSO will be performing two concerts, at 3pm and 7.30pm. And to get you in the mood, here's an excerpt from the always-enchanting Totoro soundtrack: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qtYnxlLng8
Did you know that Will Ferrell is white? And that Kevin Hart is small? Do you think it would be funny if each pretended that they weren't? The minds behind Get Hard certainly do, explaining the odd couple meets fish-out-of-water comedy that results. Apparently laughs will flow freely if Ferrell tries to act like a gangsta being schooled by Hart punching above his weight. The key word is apparently. Things are going pretty well for stockmarket whiz James King (Ferrell), with a happy boss slash soon-to-be father-in-law, Martin (Craig T. Nelson), and an attractive fiancee, Alissa (Alison Brie), to prove it. Then, his engagement party is crashed and his dreams crushed by FBI agents waving around fraud and embezzlement charges. An unsuccessful attempt to prove his innocence later, and he's destined for 10 years of hard time. Afraid he won't be able to take it, he enlists Darnell Lewis (Hart), an aspiring carwash entrepreneur and family man mistaken for an ex-con, to teach him how to survive on the inside. Yes, he asks for help getting hard, hence the movie's title and many of its gags. Did you know that the phrase doesn't just refer to acting tough? Of course you do — but based on the amount of genitalia jokes in the screenplay, writer/director Etan Cohen (scribe of Tropic Thunder) and his co-writers Jay Martel and Ian Roberts (TV's Key and Peele) are really afraid that you don't. That also explains the frequent reminders that jail isn't a nice place and constant mentions of rape and violence, as well as the overt tone of panicked homophobia. Add rampant racism as well as the dismissal of Brie as a money-hungry sex object, and the end result is questionable at best and offensive at worst. Satire can't be used as an excuse, though the few moments that work — Ferrell dressed up like Lil Wayne while telling Hart that he's not trying to appropriate his culture, for example — indicate that was the aim. It takes more than simply pointing something out and then repeating it for the film to avoid stereotypes, but it just doesn't invest the time and effort. Get Hard even misses the mark on the easiest target here, and the one that actually makes sense: the ridiculously wealthy perpetrators of white-collar crimes that fleece the little guys for a big payday. Amid all the poorly judged humour, everything plays out as expected, the duo bumbling and bonding, and the film trying to coast by on star power alone. Ferrell and Hart both do what they can with the material, showing plenty of effort for little reward; however, even their innate talents can't save the show. This isn't the comedy vehicle either could've hoped for, nor a showcase for what might have been a great double act. Looking flatter and blander than any Hollywood effort should, it's not the movie anyone could've hoped for, either. The only thing getting hard here is the audience's patience.
If winter has left you unimpressed by the current state of your wardrobe — or if, y'know, you just like some fancy new clothes now and then — you'll be pretty pleased to know that the Big Fashion Sale is back. Usually, it's a physical affair that takes place in Sydney and Melbourne; however like plenty of other events at the moment, the shopping extravaganza has hopped online — and gone national — for its current outing. The name pretty much says it all. This thing is big. You'll find a hefty array of lush items from past collections, samples and one-offs from a huge lineup of cult Australian and international designers, both well-known and emerging — including Romance Was Born, Alexander McQueen, Isabel Marant, Alex Perry, Pucci, Permanent Vacation and more. With discounts of up to 80 percent off, this is one way to up your count of designer threads while leaving your bank balance sitting pretty, too — whether you're keen on clothes, shoes, swimwear or accessories. The Big Fashion Sale's latest online sale runs until Friday, July 31 on the event's website.
Take a group of A-grade acrobats, add some bells, horns and sepia stage lighting, dowse it all in whiskey and you have Scotch and Soda. They’re a group of Australia’s finest performers and music-makers, who’ve graced stages as Cantina, Smoke and Mirrors, La Clique, Circa and Tom Tom Crew. But you’ll be forgiven if you can’t pick a familiar face under their swanky new beards, budgies and blazers as part of this new, exciting ensemble. Scotch and Soda are bringing their gypsy infused stylings and unruly showcase back to The Judith Wright Centre. Their riveting talents, paired with their raucous behaviours makes for a show that will viewers laughing as often as they cover their eyes in fear. With the driving beats of the Uncanny Carnival Band setting a musical backdrop to unsuspected activity, dangerous acts and a little nudity, brace yourself for the extreme. Tickets range between $33 and $42, and you can catch Scotch and Soda until November 28.
Following the intense success of Taken, Liam Neeson is back with a vengeance in his latest flick, Taken 2. We rejoin the story, this time on holiday with retired CIA operative Bryan Mills (Neeson) with his ex-wife and daughter. The festivities are short-lived, however, when Bryan and his ex-wife (played by Famke Janssen) are taken hostage by retaliating kidnappers. A high-suspense game of cat and mouse ensues, which sees Bryan’s daughter (Maggie Grace) enlisted to help them escape. This is a must-see for fans of the first film, as well as those who are partial to guns, explosions, and Neeson one-liners. Be sure to visit a theatre near you for this highly anticipated action film that’s sure to pack a punch.
Vai Niu Wai Niu Coconut Water is the Caboolture Regional Art Gallery's latest exhibition, showcasing Australian artists with connections to the Moananui a Kiwa region of New Zealand. In alignment with this area's cultural practices, the exhibition explores the diverse issues of continuity of cultural practices, colonisation, the environment, and the body as site of memory. The reference to coconut water comes from its representation in Western society, and the relationship to the regions it traditionally comes from. This popular product has become synonymous with desires for health and wellbeing, and is now readily available at most major supermarkets and cafes. Coconut water from Thailand, the Philippines, Viti Fiji, Samoa and Malaysia is presented in shiny packaging. Rather than showcasing the plantations most coconuts come from, the packaging promotes a fictitious and more exotic ‘other place'. Vai Niu Wai Niu Coconut Water refers to the history of the coconut as a symbol of tropical life force, not a packaged item that is sold with shiny labels and celebrity endorsements. It grows from the sand and creates an environment for crabs, birds, insects and even people.
Returning for a second year after a widely-publicised Parklife rebrand, national electronic dance music festival Listen Out has locked in dates for another year. Spearheaded by organisers and promoters Fuzzy (the team behind Field Day, Shore Thing and Harbourlife), Listen Out marked its debut last year to generally upward thumbs and rants about Azealia Banks' smokebomb. Stopping by Sydney, Perth, Melbourne and Brisbane in spring, Listen Out's so-called 'boutique' set-up will "showcase the best dance music in a small but perfectly formed setting," according to Fuzzy. The nationally-touring festival will return to Sydney's Centennial Park, Perth's Ozone Reserve and Melbourne's Observatory Precinct, with a change in Brisbane venue from Southbank's Cultural Forecourt to the Brisbane Showgrounds. Headlined by staggeringly popular UK duo Disclosure last year with highlights including Azealia Banks (very briefly), AlunaGeorge and Classixx, this year's lineup sees Flume, Chet Faker, Zhu, Schoolboy Q and more crank the beats up in the Brisbane Showgrounds. LISTEN OUT 2014 LINEUP: FLUME (only 2014 shows) CHET FAKER ZHU SCHOOLBOY Q FOUR TET YG TA-KU TOTALLY ENORMOUS EXTINCT DINOSAURS (DJ Set) SHLOHMO BONDAX YOUNG FATHERS YAHTZEL (DJ Set) GOLDEN FEATURES TKAY MAIDZA TRIPLE J UNEARTHED WINNER + more Image by Dominic Loneragan. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Lk3vbB_yuk0
On the lookout for a dope new denim jacket? Or do you want to be rid of that weird-looking lamp taking up space in the living room? Then, by golly, you're in luck. The Garage Sale Trail works with local council partners Australia-wide to get as many trash-and-treasure troves happening on the same day as possible. More than 18,000 garages are expected to open their doors to bargain hunters, selling two million items, when the event returns for its tenth time across the weekend of Saturday, October 19 and Sunday, October 20. Aside from the retro goodies up for grabs, the Trail is all about sustainability. Instead of ending up in landfill, unwanted clutter becomes a fantastic find. So get that tight pair of sunnies for peanuts and help the environment at the same time. The Garage Sale Trail began humbly in Bondi in 2010 and is growing bigger every year. There'll be a right slew of sales happening all around Brisbane, so keep your eyes on the event website — or register online from Saturday, August 10 to make a quick buck from your old junk and hang out with the friendly folks in your hood.
Big Day Out is out for 2015. After yesterday's news of AJ Maddah's handover to Austin-based company C3 Presents (owners of Lollapalooza festival), this morning Fairfax Media announced a statement from the new owners. "C3 Presents is proud to own Big Day Out, one of the most iconic and established festival brands in the world. While we intend to bring back the festival in future years, we can confirm there will not be a Big Day Out in 2015," said the statement. "We love working on BDO and are excited about the future." After the huge announcement by Music Feeds yesterday, C3 now own 100 percent of the beloved Australian festival. Running through Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Gold Coast and Auckland, BDO is now entire US owned — promoter AJ Maddah was yesterday revealed to have sold off his half stake to C3. Maddah is yet to make his own announcement, instead looking to triple j's Hack this afternoon for an outlet. Looks like there's a gap in the market for a new around-Australia Day festival, with Field Day's popularity sure to boost in Sydney. If C3 own Lollapalooza, maybe we're in for an Australian edition. Via Music Feeds and SMH. Image by Peer Group.
Feeling a little chilly, Brisbanites? That's understandable — the sky is grey and cloudy, sunshine is mostly absent and the unseasonably cooler weather isn't expected to lift until next week. It's not just a colder-than-usual spell at this time of year that's making the city shiver, however, but the fact that Brisbane just experienced its coldest May day since 1980. Yesterday, Friday, May 22, the mercury didn't pass 17.9 degrees. And if you can't remember the last time it was this cool at this exact time of year, that's because it has been almost half a century since anything in May came close, the Bureau of Meteorology reports. Usually, Brissie averages a maximum of 23.2 degrees in May, so that frosty temperature is well below the norm. In fact, the average minimum at this time of year is usually 13.3 degrees. Today, Saturday, May 23, might beat yesterday's record, too — with BOM only forecasting a maximum of 17.5. At the time of writing, the mercury hasn't ventured past 13.6 degrees as yet for the day, in case you're wondering why you're feeling particularly cold while you're reading this. https://twitter.com/BOM_Qld/status/1263981305408167937 While tomorrow, Sunday, May 24, is only expected to reach a top of 21 degrees, that'll obviously be considerably warmer than the last few days. And, it'll be the start of more normal temps, too. From Monday, May 24 onwards, maximum temperatures will hover between 24–25 and come paired with either sunny or mostly sunny conditions — just the way Brisbanites like their lead-up to winter. Via Bureau of Meteorology.
If you're a fan of films both new and old, then you've probably experienced an increasingly common problem: scrolling through your streaming platform of choice and being underwhelmed by its rather small retro selection. Or, maybe you've just worn out your Back to the Future or Ferris Bueller's Day Off DVDs. Or perhaps you've always wanted to see The Princess Bride or Pretty in Pink, but have been waiting until you could catch them in a cinema. Whichever category you fall into, Dendy Coorparoo's new Cult Classics programs is here to help every Monday, with the season running from June 4 to August 27. Each week, the eastside cinema will serve up a new blast from the past — at 10.30am, in case you have the day off, and at 6.30pm too, for those who've been working. Tickets cost $8 for members and $10 for everyone else, and the lineup is stacked full of old faves. Gremlins and The NeverEnding Story are on the bill for a dose of childhood nostalgia, while Full Metal Jacket and Platoon will take you into the depths of war. And, you won't just get the chance to revisit Marty McFly's first time-travelling escapades, but the whole trilogy.
It’s often said that there’s no such thing as an original thought, but clearly that’s bollocks because it takes a very original mind to come up with a concept like this. Same goes for the snuggie - millions of years of evolution have honed humans to be the absolute geniuses that we are, coming up with useful concepts every day. Not just limited to infomercials and the Japanese, originality is abound everywhere, if you know where to look for it. Running alongside the Surrealism exhibition, GoMA Talks is a discussion program with the topic: what makes creative minds tick? Amanda Smith, Philip Brophy, Dr Jason Gallate, Fiona Hall and Dr Damon Young make up the distinguished panel who tackle the topic from varying angles, dissecting the inner workings of innovators from a range of disciplines and how they create (and enable the creation) of new ideas and concepts. The event is free, but if you can’t make it down to the Cultural Centre you can also stream the webcast and join in the discussion on Twitter using the #GoMAtalks hash tag.
A quarter-century since the world first met Monica, Ross, Rachel, Chandler, Joey and Phoebe, TV's most famous friends are never too far from anyone's thoughts. When the sitcom's catchy theme tune promised "I'll be there for you", it seems these New York pals really meant it — not just about each other, but for the legions of viewers who watched their antics between 1994–2004, then kept rewatching them afterwards. Over the years, you've probably caught reruns on television, binged your way through boxsets or let episode after episode play on Stan — but you probably haven't enjoyed a marathon of standout eps on the big screen. To celebrate the series' 25th anniversary, a heap of Brisbane cinemas are letting Friends fans do just that. There mightn't be an orange couch for you to sit on, but you'll want to gather the gang regardless. Prices and session times vary per cinema, but the lineup remains the same. On the bill are 12 of the show's classic episodes, including The One With The Black Out, The One With The Prom Video and The One Where No One's Ready — plus The One With Chandler In A Box, The One Where Everyone Finds Out and The One Where Ross Got High. Running for five hours, the screening will also feature new footage, interviews and bloopers — so you'll get an extra dose of Friends fun.
After playing host to Brisbane's decadent Lobster Shack pop-up, Petrie Terrace is now home to the city's newest American-themed eatery and watering hole. Open in the spot formerly known as Sandy's Goodtime Bar, Fat Belly Jack's is the inner-city area's new home of fried chicken, bourbon, whisky and beer. The new venture actually comes from the folks behind the aforementioned short-term lobster and Champagne venture. Indeed, they were so impressed with its success that they decided to settle into 48 Petrie Terrace for the long haul. This time around, though, they're all about Nashville-style poultry pieces cooked in a southern-style batter, then dunked in spicy coatings that range from mild to 'really fucking hot', as well as specially paired boilermakers. Food-wise, patrons can choose from burgers, wings, tenders, and either quarter or a half birds, which all come with bread, pickles and a choice of sides. And as far as those accompaniments go, Fat Belly Jack's is slinging bacon-fried greens, Memphis slaw, creamed corn, mac 'n' cheese and crinkle cut fries. With bare brick walls on display, neon signs a-blazing, and a soundtrack of American blues, rock, soul, funk and country music, the venue leans into its theming; however, other than the chook, it's the huge back bar that's the focal point. A sizeable range of American spirits sits alongside a rotating lineup of US beers, plus Fat Belly Jack's special boilermaker menu. Spanning from high-end to more affordable options, the lineup includes the likes of the Baller Boiler, pairing Deep Creek IPA with five-year-old Willet Pot Still Reserve whiskey, as well as the Poor Boy, which combines a can of Pabst Blue Ribbon with a shot of Jameson. Find Fat Belly Jack's at 48 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane. It's open from 12–10pm Tuesday–Saturday, or until later if busy.
The menu might change on a daily basis, but one thing always remains the same at Red Robin Supper Truck. That'd be the presence of a burger — and sometimes more than one — that's worth heading to Morningside for. Named for the tea room it sits behind, the Southside is as tasty as the combination of beef, cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes and pickles gets, however whether the blue bacon, big kahuna, Dorito chicken, kimcheese, red curry or thai fish burger also grace the food van's chalkboard, it's always in good company. Plus, a trip to Red Robin Supper Truck means a trip to Death Valley, the city's best inner-east dive bar.
Sundays are all about rounding out your weekend the right way. There's work to be done the next day, no one wants to think about it and we all want to make the most of every single second before that happens. One surefire approach: coast into the week to come with lasting good vibes from the most cruisy activities possible — meaning an afternoon of free live music at Livespark at Brisbane Powerhouse. Slide into a seat in this cathedral-like space, then kick back to live sounds before the working week begins again. You'll be heading to the Turbine Platform, so you'll really feel like you're in the thick of the iconic building. The lineup changes each time, with 2021's Livespark sessions happening monthly — or thereabouts. Head along from 3–5.30pm on August 29, September 26, and November 7 and 28. For the first November session, Deb Suckling and Minor Premiers will be doing the honours and keeping you entertained. [caption id="attachment_619069" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Studio Impressions[/caption] Updated November 5.
It was set to be one of the biggest Australian tours of the year, but Childish Gambino fans will have to wait a little longer for some summertime magic. Promoter Live Nation has announced that the US hip hop star has cancelled his Aussie trip due to an ongoing injury. Childish Gambino was due to play solo shows at HBF Stadium, Perth on November 8; Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne on November 10; and the Sydney Opera House, Sydney on November 14 and November 15. He was also slated to be the headline act at Canberra's Spilt Milk festival, which will take place on November 17. The performer — AKA Donald Glover, AKA writer/director/star of Atlanta, if you haven't already worked that out — reportedly broke his foot at a show in Dallas last month, and was already forced to postpone the final US leg of his 'This Is America' tour as a result. In a statement posted to Live Nation's social media feeds about the Aussie cancellation, the star said, "I'm not ready to put on 100 percent shows. Apologies to the fans. I will be back soon". Live Nation is working to reschedule Childish Gambino's dates, so if you've nabbed yourself a ticket, keep your eyes on the company's website and social media for further updates. With the single 'This Is America' tearing up the US charts — and the accompanying video — racking up hundreds of millions of views, it's safe to that Australia was pumped for Childish Gambino's arrival. This would've marked his first Aussie shows since performing at Falls Festival in 2016. CANCELLED TOUR DATES: November 8 — Perth, HBF Stadium November 10 — Melbourne, Sidney Myer Music Bowl November 14 — Sydney, Sydney Opera House November 15 — Sydney, Sydney Opera House November 17 — Canberra, Spilt Milk Festival
Even five months in, not much has felt typical about 2022 in Brisbane so far, thanks to the pandemic and wild weather. But when you're competing for music trivia glory at one of the city's beloved regular events, you'll be basking in a nice stint of normality. Yes, Not On Your Rider is back for another year, all to keep us entertained in one of the best possible ways: by creating a music quiz show filled with well-known faces, staging it live and inviting Brisbanites to play along. This pop-culture delight first returned for 2022 in March; however, that was only its initial outing for the year. Now, it has locked in its full schedule, with six big events on the agenda before 2023 rolls around — including four shows at The Triffid and two at The Fortitude Music Hall. Yes, its huge Christmas show is making a comeback, as is Not On Your Rider's birthday extravaganza. Plus, new this year is a hefty Halloween celebration. If you're not already acquainted with Not On Your Rider, it takes something that everyone loves — showing off their music trivia knowledge — and dials it up a few notches. TV hits like Spicks and Specks and Never Mind the Buzzcocks are entertaining to watch on-screen, of course. They're ace to play along with from the comfort of your own couch, too. But they always leave even their biggest devotees wanting more, which is where Not On Your Rider comes in. Here's how it works: the event is hosted by The Creases' Aimon Clark, and features Velociraptor's Jeremy Neale and The Grates' Patience Hodgson as team captains. Also, while the two on-stage teams are always filled with musos, comedians, drag queens and other guests, anyone can buy a ticket, sit at a table and answer questions along with them. Previous events have boasted folks from Powderfinger, Ball Park Music, The Jungle Giants, Dune Rats, DZ Deathrays, The Kite String Tangle, Butterfingers, Last Dinosaurs and more, because you never know which music figures might be involved on the night. For its May show, Ben Lee, Shad Wicka, Ball Park Music's Jen Boyce and Regurgitator's Ben Ely will be doing the honours. And as for the quiz itself, it's accompanied by chats about the music industry, plus other mini games involving attendees. [caption id="attachment_854737" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bianca Holderness[/caption] NOT ON YOUR RIDER 2022 DATES: Thursday, May 26 — The Triffid with Ben Lee, Shad Wicka, Jen Boyce and Ben Ely Friday, July 8 — Birthday extravaganza at The Fortitude Music Hall with guests TBC Thursday, August 25 — The Triffid with guests TBC Thursday, September 22 — The Triffid with guests TBC Thursday, October 27 — Halloween show at The Triffid with guests TBC Saturday, December 10 — Christmas show at The Fortitude Music Hall with guests TBC Not On Your Rider's 2022 season runs from May 26–December 10, with four shows at The Triffid and two at The Fortitude Music Hall. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the Not On Your Rider website.
It was the sweet treat chain that rose faster than yeasty baked goods, then sunk like your stomach when you've eaten too much sugar. After closing down its 30 stores earlier this year during the collapse of then-owner Damien Griffith's hospitality empire, Doughnut Time is now set to return — under new owners and managers, with six new shops on the horizon. Doughnut Time will start slinging its wares across Australia's east coast, the brand announced on Facebook. Expect decadent circles of baked and fried dough to pop up in the Myer Centre and at South Bank in Brisbane; Degraves Lane, Hawthorn and Fitzroy in Melbourne; and Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast. That's just for starters — Sydney is also expected to nab a new store or two in 2019, and Melburnians can expect a couple more as well. Since announcing the comeback, the company has pushed the original August opening date to the end of September, but still no stores are open. With any luck, the mint green doors will fling open before the end of the year. With the chain now overseen by Queensland entrepreneur Peter Andros, Doughnut Time is eager to put the brand's past behind it — a situation that not only saw its previous stores shuttered without warning, but left many of its staff unpaid. "We think what happened to past employees is unacceptable," the company wrote on Facebook. "We encourage any previous workers who have not yet done so to reclaim unpaid wages by contacting the Department of Jobs and Small Business. We believe many Australians missed Doughnut Time and when we saw it was up for sale, we jumped at the opportunity to bring it back." Fans and sugar fiends should prepare their tastebuds for a dose of the old and the new when the fresh batch of stores start cooking up a storm. Hit flavours like the Cate Blanchett (a milk chocolate doughnut covered in Tim Tam pieces) have been teased on social media, as have new vegan, gluten free, high protein, low sugar and keto options. For more information, keep an eye on Doughnut Time's website and Facebook page. Updated: October 10, 2018.
