"Imagine you're tracking a terrorist" begins the unseen voice in the opening shot of Dror Moreh's unnerving documentary The Gatekeepers. "You know they're planning an imminent attack and you know they're in a car that your teams have finally located." As he narrates, the clouds on the screen part to reveal footage from a drone flying high above a city. "What you don't know, though, is where they're going to be an hour from now, or who else is in the car with them. So…what do you do?" Moments later there's a flash, an explosion, and the car is destroyed in what you realise is real-world footage of an assassination. In the corner of the screen, an injured bystander slowly attempts to crawl away from the flaming carnage. This is the story of the Shin Bet — Israel's highly secretive internal security service — as told by all six surviving leaders, past and present (and, notably, the only members whose identities are ever made public). Divided into seven sections with austere headings like: 'Collateral Damage', 'Forget About Morality' and 'Victory Is to See You Suffer', The Gatekeepers offers an extraordinary insight into one of the most clandestine organisations in living history. Like 2003's Academy Award-winning film The Fog of War, these interviews reveal both the strategic and philosophical considerations behind some of the organisations most famous (and infamous) operations; however, unlike Robert S. McNamara, the disclosures of these men are remarkably unsentimental and make little attempt at any justification. With their stewardship spanning decades of momentous upheaval, including the 6-Day War, the hijacking of the 300 bus, the invasion of Lebanon, the two Intifadas and the assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, there's no shortage of material for the narrators to delve into despite the large pockets of history that remain classified. Rarely do the scenarios veer even close to black-and-white morality, and, not surprisingly, it's questions of assassination and torture that prove most compelling. "What's unnatural is the power you have" , explains the Shin Bet's most recent chief Yuval Diskin, "the power you have to take three people, terrorists, and take their lives in an instant." In all, The Gatekeepers is a candid, revelatory and at times disturbing film that represents one of the 'must-sees' of 2013. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Kpk71yrQUQM
"Player or watcher?" Nerve asks, and it's not an easy question to answer. The query may stem from the fictional dare-based game that gives the film its name, but there's no missing the real-world parallels. In these Snapchat-sending, Vine-streaming, Pokemon GO-playing times, this tech-savvy thriller feels relevant to the minute. With our lives increasingly lived through screens, our connections and conversations more often virtual than physical, and our days whiled away either posting selfies, or watching others do the same, the question needs to be asked: where do we draw the line? These are the big issues touched upon in Nerve, a film that's hardly subtle about the negative influence the internet has had on human behaviour. Thankfully, the film never tries to lecture millennials about their preferred pastimes. Instead, Catfish directors Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman keep toying with their favourite topics via a slickly and swiftly-told tale that never fails to entertain, even if the underlying narrative doesn't always stand up to scrutiny. But hey, when you're making a film about people doing reckless things for online fame and fortune, a certain number of illogical choices are to be expected. When Venus Delmonico (Emma Roberts) musters up the courage to participate in the live-streamed game, her spur-of-the-moment decision ends up being the first of many. The studious 17-year-old is motivated in part by the prize money she could put towards attending a Californian college, but also by a desire to venture beyond her comfort zone after being rejected by her football hero crush (Brian Marc). Kissing a stranger is Vee's first task, and when she locks lips with Ian (Dave Franco) in a diner, she discovers that he's playing the game as well. At first the viewing public seems eager for them to pair up, venture into New York, try on fancy clothes and get tattoos. But as the young duo begins to lure in more eyeballs, the dares become not just more lucrative, but more dangerous as well. Much of this movie's charms come from simply watching Vee and Ian roam around Manhattan, reacting to the challenges thrown their way and letting their mutual attraction flourish. Indeed, the film's first half doubles as a different take on the usual walk-and-talk movie date scenario. That Roberts and Franco make an engaging and enthusiastic pair helps; that Joost and Schulman are just as vibrant and energetic in their pacing and style does as well. Of course as enjoyable as it is watching the two lead actors race around attempting ridiculous feats, this effort about online entertainment isn't all fun and games. When Nerve wanders deeper into darker territory more akin to David Fincher's The Game, it's not always as successful – in fact, the feature's third act is positively silly. But by then, you're a watcher, and you can't tear your eyes away.
By this time in October, with the end of the month closer than the beginning, you're well aware that spring is here. But if you'd like to celebrate the almost two-month-old season anyway — because it's sunnier and warmer than Brisbane's mild winter, or because there hasn't been much to celebrate in 2020 so far — then Portside Wharf is happy to oblige. From Thursday, October 22–Tuesday, November 3, the inner-north spot is hosting a spring pop-up — with four things on the menu. You'll walk through floral displays, listen to live piano, grab a bite to eat and sip a few beverages. If there's a fifth thing on offer, it's feeling mighty relaxed. Those flowers are blooming around the precinct, while you'll hear the ivories being tickled on Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as Saturday and Sunday around lunchtime. Belvedere Bar and Grill is serving up confit of duck and Mr & Mrs Jones has opted for lemon tarts with viola flowers, while Sono Japanese restaurant is pouring yuzu cocktails. At Byblos Bar, you can work your way through its spritz menu — and Gusto da Gianni Moretti is hosting a pop-up bar by the water.
The Pope of Trash is back, he's here to have a lively chat and you won't see anything quite like it this year. We're talking about John Waters, of course, with the cult filmmaker, queer icon and all-round pop culture legend heading to Brisbane for a divine evening of revelatory reflections, eye-opening anecdotes and shameless secrets from a life spent making cinematic trouble. In fact, Make Trouble is the incredibly apt name of his live show. Waters is the rare auteur who doesn't just craft vivid, transgressive, larger-than-life movies such as the notorious Pink Flamingos, big-budget hit Hairspray and black comedy Serial Mom — he's also as lively and fascinating as you'd expect based on his incredibly distinctive filmography. (And, he has a killer pencil-thin moustache.) Expect to dive into his 50-plus years in the business, hear about his time spent working with everyone from Mink Stole and Divine to Kathleen Turner and Patricia Hearst, and get an earful of insights into his opinions about today's chaotic existence. There'll be more topics of conversation, too; if there's one thing that Waters knows about, it's everything. You'll laugh at his gleefully filthy tidbits (in fact, you might even cry from giggling so hard), and you'll also soak up the best kind of devilish yet worldly wisdom, all while spending an evening in the company of a talent like no other. Timed just after the release of his latest (and ninth) book, The Tarnished Wisdom of a Filth Elder, John Waters hits the Brisbane Powerhouse stage on Wednesday, October 16. Image: Prudence Upton.
Want to serenade your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day, but can’t carry a tune? Let Brisbane’s buskers do it for you while you enjoy the show — or several, and then several more. On the annual day dedicated to love, the Cultural Precinct will become a love-in for all things artistic and musical. At Valentine’s Busk, there’ll be singing, dancing, comedy and magic, across eight stages from the Gallery of Modern Art right across South Bank. There’ll also be an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest busk. Of course, there’s more — and we don’t just mean the activities on offer at the nearby Queensland Art Gallery, the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, the State Library, and the Queensland Museum, all linking in with their current programs. On the street is where the action is, whether checking out the city’s best buskers all afternoon, or enjoying a free, all-ages concert by The Basics once the sun goes down.
More murderers. More mysteries. More moody musings about people who kill people. More chances for Damon Herriman to step into Charles Manson's shoes, too. Yes, the second season of Mindhunter will have it all when it finally drops on Netflix on Friday, August 16, returning two years after the David Fincher-executive produced and co-directed series first hit the platform. This time around, FBI agents Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany) no longer need to prove that chatting to incarcerated serial killers can help solve ongoing cases. Taking place a couple of years after the initial season's 1977 setting, Mindhunter follows the dedicated duo during the Atlanta child murders. Across 1979–81, at least 28 kids, teens and adults were killed — with the first trailer for the show's new season showing the reaction in Georgia, and teasing one unnerving incident. Ford and Tench keep gleaning insights from talkative murderer Ed Kemper (Cameron Britton), whose thoughts narrate the haunting clip; however, he's not the only notorious figure that they're set to cross paths with. As well as Herriman's second take on Manson, after the Aussie actor's role in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, the new Netflix series also features David Berkowitz, aka Son of Sam. Expect more criminal profiling and psychological thrills, obviously, with the show based on the excellent non-fiction book Mindhunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unit. Expect more meticulous Fincher magic as well, as the Seven and Zodiac filmmaker continues his on-screen fascination with serial killers. He has company behind the lens, thanks to Australian director Andrew Dominik (Chopper, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford) and US helmer Carl Franklin (Devil in a Blue Dress, Out of Time). Get creeped out by the first trailer for Mindhunter season two below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIazdDw4tao Mindhunter season two drops on Netflix on Friday, August 16.
From 1982 to 2006, 4ZZZ's market days were a highlight of the Brisbane event calendar. The city's favourite community radio station descended upon a local park or venue with a heap of great bands and a host of stallholders. Unsurprisingly, masses of music lovers followed suit. While that joyous annual day is no more, the alternative broadcasters are serving up the next best thing to mark forty years on the airwaves. That'd be the 4ZZZ 40th Birthday Night Market — which is both a celebration and as close as you'll get to jumping back to the past without a time machine. The decade-spanning lineup of acts certainly suits the occasion, with Gentle Ben & His Sensitive Side, Monster Zoku Onsomb, Blank Realm, Velociraptor, Xero and The Leftovers provide tunes across two rooms. And the browsing and buying part of the equation comes courtesy of the Summer Night Markets, pairing something old and iconic with something fresh and new.
Bill Bailey is a comedic renaissance man and his world famous shows are evidence. He is witty and intelligent, twisted and cerebral and incredibly creative. The star of Black Books, and former team captain on the British music quiz show, Never Mind The Buzzcocks, is coming back to Australia to let loose in his new show – Qualmpeddler. With a global focus and a polictical slant, Qualmpeddler is earning rave reviews whereever it appears. Bringng the usual musical mash-up styling’s of previous shows with political humour and animated elements, this show is sure to be a hilarious trip into the mind of one of the world’s top comedic performers.
In need a domestic getaway? How about a sojourn down south to Tasmania? Jetstar is back with another sale of flights for way, way less — this time teaming up with Tourism Tasmania and connecting Aussies in six major cities to Hobart and Launceston for as little as $45 one way. The sale is already underway and set to run until 11.59pm Monday, March 16, or until sold out. Melbournians can fly to Launceston from $45 and Hobart from $66, the cost of the average dinner these days, while Sydneysiders can book seats to Launceston from $55 and to Hobart from $73, or drive to Newcastle and fly to Hobart from $61. Coming from Brisbane? Launceston flights are from $96, Hobart from $112 — or head to Gold Coast airport to fly to Hobart from $105, and Adelaide to Hobart is just $87. The discounts are eligible for flights between Tuesday, March 31 and Wednesday, December 16. [caption id="attachment_1043520" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Kunanyi (Mt Wellington), Hobart[/caption] There's more than enough to do in Tasmania during those months. In April, the Autumn Festival will see the Derwent Valley and Central Highlands transform into autumn colours and themed events, followed by TrailGrazer, a three-day festival celebrating the flavours and growers of northwest Tasmania. Late May and early June see Hobart celebrate its UNESCO-listed status as a city of literature and invite readers and writers to revel in the craft during the Island Readers and Writers Festival. Then in mid-June, Tasmania's legendary midwinter solstice festival, Dark Mofo, returns for another year of fiery, late-night hedonism to fight off the winter chill. [caption id="attachment_998155" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Dark Mofo[/caption] In August, Tasmanian Whisky Week puts the island's award-winning distillery scene into the spotlight through tours, masterclasses and peeks behind the scenes of the (literal) Tassie spirit. Then later that month, the focus shifts to science via the Beaker Street Festival and its big discussions on even bigger ideas. And if you're holding off for a springtime trip, the Wynyard Tulip Festival blooms into a family-friendly celebration for one day only in October. The Jetstar Tasmania Sale is on now until 11.59pm AEDT on Monday, March 16, or until sold out. Visit the website to book your flights. Images: supplied
If you devoured Boy Swallows Universe when it hit Netflix, then got excited Love Stories coming to the stage — and if you're a big fan of Harry Bosch and Mickey Haller, too — then you'll want to make a date with the 2024 Brisbane Writers Festival. Two of the just-announced lineup's biggest names speak volumes about the event this year, with the program adoring and celebrating local talent, and also welcoming in international writers. Prepare to be busy, literature lovers: more than 150 live sessions are on the full bill. When BWF takes place from Thursday, May 30–Sunday, June 2 at the State Library of Queensland and other venues around Brisbane, Trent Dalton will dive into Lola in the Mirror. As for American author Michael Connelly, he has his crime sagas that started with The Black Echo and The Lincoln Lawyer to discuss — plus 2023's Resurrection Walk, which features both Bosch and Haller. From there, the usual applies at Brisbane's annual ode to storytelling and publishing: if it involves words, it's probably covered. BWF Artistic Director Jackie Ryan has dubbed 2024's festival an "intellectual all-you-can-eat". "Our slogan is 'have we got a story for you', and it's a promise we're keen to deliver on — whether your appetite is for culture, science, sport, literature, politics, espionage, music, health, comedy, romance, performance, crime, history, poetry, or a combination of the above," Ryan notes. [caption id="attachment_944973" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kat Westerman[/caption] Among the book-centric buffet, other highlights include keynote addresses by Melissa Lucashenko and Louise Doughty, Prima Facie's Suzie Miller talking about her hit play, Fourth Wing and Iron Flame's Rebecca Yarros taking her first trip Down Under, Naomi Novik chatting about her Scholomance series and Tokyo Vice writer Jake Adelstein digging into his experiences. Or, there's also the Booker Prize-shortlisted Paul Murray, fantasy author Samantha Shannon and The Dictionary People's Sarah Ogilvie — and the fact that Melanie Saward and Lenora Thaker are both guest curators. Bryan Brown, Kate Ceberano, Ed Le Brocq and Stuart Coupe are on the program as well, each with a new tome to discuss. Julia Baird, Chris Hammer, Daniel Browning, Jackie Huggins, William McInnes, Anna McGahan, Samuel Wagan-Watson, Matthew Condon, Anita Heiss and Hedley Thomas are also flying the flag for Australian, and sometimes Queensland, scribes. Brisbane writers are particularly well-represented, with more than 60 taking part. [caption id="attachment_944977" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sarah Hadley[/caption] If you want to hear Connelly examine his chosen genre with Doughty, Brown, Dann McDorman and Dinuka McKenzie, you're in luck there, too. Historical fiction is in the spotlight via Heather Morris, Mirandi Riwoe, Melissa Ashley and Christine Wells — and Sing Lit Station is bringing Singaporean authors Brisbane's way. A day celebrating YA fiction, exploring the response to the Matildas over the past year, the intersection of music and books, gothic fiction, short stories, the history of Aussie cinema, supernatural thrills, the murder-mystery genre, how to write about art: they all earn some attention, because that's how jam-packed the lineup is. And the week before the fest kicks off, Lessons in Chemistry author Bonnie Garmus will head to town, but her in-conversation sessions are already sold out. The 2024 Brisbane Writers Festival runs from Thursday, May 30–Sunday, June 2 at the State Library of Queensland and other venues around Brisbane. To check out the full program and purchase tickets, check out the festival's website. Brisbane Writers Festival images: Markus Ravik, CSquare Media, Geoff Lawrence, Bianca Holderness, Josef Ruckli and Morgan Roberts.
Fortitude Valley loves a laneway, with plenty popping up — or being brought to life, more accurately — across the inner city spot in recent years. And those laneways love markets. In fact, the trio that is Winn Lane, Bakery Lane and California Lane has been hosting various markets under various names for quite some time. In 2020, those different events are joining forces, taking on one communal moniker and popping up on the first Saturday of each month. Running from 9am–2pm on September 5, October 3 and November 7, Valley Laneway Markets will sprawl across the three stretches of pavement with an array of plants, ceramics, art, handmade goods and vintage fashion. Because that just isn't enough space for this event, they'll actually take over the Brunswick Street Mall as well (which isn't a laneway, but it definitely is a thoroughfare). Browse through the stalls, pop into the permanent retailers, and grab a bite to eat and something caffeinated from one of the many cafes and eateries in the area — whichever you're doing, you'll have a heap of options to choose from. These markets also place a heavy focus on local talents, so when you're rifling through the racks, eyeing off some retro threads, and pondering picking up some jewellery or accessories, you'll be supporting Brissie's best. And, like everything this year, they'll be socially distanced. Top image: Valley Laneway Markets. Updated November 5.
Get excited Temples fans as the boys have just touched down for their first Australian shows. First stop, The Zoo! Hailing from Kettering, Northamptonshire, Temples are making waves in the psychedelic world. The group comprises of lead singer and guitarist James Edward Bagshaw, bassist Tom Warmsley, drummer Sam Toms and keyboardist Adam Smith. The lads performed at Coachella and have warmed the stage for the likes of Suede, The Vaccines and Kasabian. But one accolade trumps all of these achievements as Johnny Marr and Noel Gallagher, gods of Britpop, have praised Temples as one of the best new bands on the scene. If Temples rings a bell, you may have heard their debut album, Sun Structures, being spun on Triple J as a Feature Album. Tracks such as 'Mesmerise' and 'Shelter Song' have been on high rotation as well. Deep Sea Arcade and newly formed Orphans Orphans will also be playing.
Come July, one of the most peaceful patches of Adelaide will become the most fiery. Don't worry, it's only temporary. Already a hit everywhere from Stonehenge to the Pont du Gard, and also in Melbourne, French art collective Compagnie Carabosse is bringing its acclaimed Fire Gardens back to Australia — specifically to the South Australian capital for 2024's Illuminate Adelaide. While the festival's full program won't be unveiled until Wednesday, May 1 — so, for interstate residents, what else will tempt you to SA hasn't been revealed as yet — this sprawling and suitably glowing installation is worth getting hot and bothered about already (in a good way, of course). For 12 nights, running Thursday–Sunday for three weeks between Thursday, July 4–Sunday, July 21, Fire Gardens will take over the Adelaide Botanic Garden. The North Terrace spot will be filled with thousands of fire pots, sculptures and terracotta urns — more than 7000, in fact. Pathways will be illuminated, archways will be lit by candles and huge spheres will roar and crackle. The installation will also feature luminous kinetic sculptures, and pair its sights with live music. Given that the group has been starting fires professionally for more than two decades, Compagnie Carabosse knows what it's doing — not only when it comes to safely cloaking a huge expanse of grass, plants and trees in flames, but in tapping into humanity's innate fondness for and primal attraction to fire. This isn't just about watching things burn, obviously, but about art. The soundtrack will also boost the mood and allure. Although Fire Gardens has popped up around the world, this iteration will be crafted specifically for Adelaide Botanic Garden. That means that you really won't see anything like it anywhere else. And, of course, you haven't seen the gardens set on fire before anyway. "The Illuminate Adelaide Fire Gardens experience is being designed specifically for our Botanic Garden, with Compagnie Carabosse already plotting and mapping out its largest-ever installation designed exclusively for Adelaide and the first time ever during an Australian winter," said Illuminate Adelaide co-founders and Creative Directors Lee Cumberlidge and Rachael Azzopardi. "Fire Gardens is the perfect way to experience Adelaide in July, and we know audiences will be blown away by this spectacle of leaping flames, fiery urns and smouldering archways." Fire Gardens will be part of Illuminate Adelaide 2024, running from Thursday, July 4–Sunday, July 21 at Adelaide Botanic Garden, North Terrace, Adelaide. For more information and tickets, head to the festival's website. Images: Sylvie Monier, Jess Wyld, Regina Marcenkiene and Vincent Muteau.
When was the last time you sent a Christmas card? (And no, e-cards don't count.) When was the last time you wrote something down — let alone in something other than scribble? Showroom's latest class wants to help you do both. Soon, you'll be wowing your friends and family with your thoughtful, handwritten, seasonal cards and notes. At the Christmas Card Lettering Workshop, you'll learn how to create custom lettering pieces using fine black markers and brush pens, explore cursive compositions and expressive brush lettering, and make unique, hand-lettered cards. And if you're feeling extra festive, why not stick around for the afternoon session on making your own garlands?
When you're wandering through the Canadian Rockies, you're probably thinking about many things. The sheer size of the mountains around you, for one. The cold, depending on the time of year you visit. And perhaps spotting a mythical creature, depending on your thoughts on Bigfoot. The folks behind Chermside's newest bar and eatery might've been pondering all that, but they were contemplating something else as well. Inspired by the splendour around them — and the food and drink that they enjoyed along the way — they decided to bring a slice of Saskatchewan back to Brisbane. That's where Sasquatch was born — and like its namesake, you'll find it hiding in plain sight (just down the road from Chermside shopping centre, in this case). The presence of plenty of timber fixtures and furniture evokes thoughts of the titular creature's natural habitat, but this craft beer and charcoal grill bar really is all about its menu. Whether you're keen on a breakfast coffee and sweet treat, something more exciting than a sandwich for lunch, an after-work beverage or a share plate for dinner, Sasquatch has you covered. Food-wise, expect something special no matter what time of day it is — that is, jaffles first-up, sticky pork belly and miso glazed barramundi hero subs come noon, and grilled hunks of meat, whole chickens and fillets of fish with waffle fries and other sides to finish up. Alas, you won't find the Canadian staple that is poutine on the menu yet, but keep your eyes peeled for a future addition. To wash it all down, patrons can choose between a rotating selection of craft brews — including 20 bottled and eight on tap — plus wine, spirits and Cleanskin Coffee Co.'s signature blend.
When Babylon Brisbane opened its doors at the end of December 2022, it didn't just mark the first Sunshine State outpost for the eatery that's been serving up dishes and drinks in Sydney since 2019. It also saw 145 Eagle Street gain the first of two new venues, the second of which has just launched as well: waterfront bar Babylon Garden. Initially announced back in November, too, Babylon Garden is the 500-person, 645-square-metre outdoor hangout space accompanying Babylon Brisbane's sitdown indoor 120-person setup. So, you can head inside for a restaurant meal with river views, or spend your afternoon or evening right by the water on two tiers of terraces, sipping beverages in the open air. As with indoors, Babylon Gardens' design is overseen by Brisbane's Hogg and Lamb, the architects behind the Sydney venue. This time, pale bricks are a big feature, plus timber furniture, leather banquettes, and palm trees and plants aplenty. You'll sit at green marble tabletops at high and low tables, and your drinks come from a ten-metre brass bar. On the menu amid that greenery, and while soaking in the fresh air: Middle Eastern and East Mediterranean bites and cocktails. The food lineup is a collaboration between Babylon Brisbane's Head Chef Ferdinand Sariin and Babylon Sydney's Head Chef Robert Taylor, with standout options including crispy chicken wings with Baharat spice, harissa and labneh; homemade falafel with tahini sauce, dukkah and lemon; and pumpkin kebabs with coriander, muhammara and Aleppo chilli. For something sweet, there's also assorted baklava, plus three-piece servings of Turkish delight. Drinks-wise, the range of beers on tap and by the bottle heroes brews from around the world, as does the hefty wine list. With bubbles, the focus unsurprisingly falls heavily on French champagne. Folks keen on a cocktail will find Middle Eastern-meets-East Mediterranean flavours shining through here, too, as tasted in the Semiramis' Throne (made with Tanqueray Sevilla, mastic liqueur, apricot, lemon, falernum and orange blossom), Devine Levanthyme (limoncello, lemon gin, thyme, sugar and egg white) and Turkish espresso martini (with Turkish coffee and cardamom-infused Metaxa 7, chocolate liqueur, orgeat and cold brew). Find Babylon Garden at 145 Eagle Street, Brisbane — open 11am–11.30pm Sundays–Tuesdays, 11am–12am Wednesdays, 11am–1.30 Thursdays and 11am–2am Fridays–Saturdays. Images: Markus Ravik.
Think Australia's winter arts festivals, and glowing sights in chilly places likely come to mind. That combination works for Vivid in Sydney, RISING in Melbourne, Dark Mofo in Hobart and Illuminate in Adelaide, after all. The weather will be frostier than usual on the Gold Coast in August, and dazzling lights are also a part of the Bleach* lineup; however, this annual Sunshine State event is its own unique midyear cultural celebration. One of Bleach*'s key aims is to showcase the Gold Coast in all of its glory. The popular tourist destination's beaches get some love, of course, as do its valleys and the Nerang River. Sun, surf, sand, tree-surrounded sheds, leafy gardens, radiant sights wherever they'll fit, rollerskating musicals, dance parties with waves as a background: they're all on the hefty just-announced 2023 program. [caption id="attachment_786592" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Art Work Agency[/caption] Marking its 12th year, Bleach*'s latest go-around will run from Thursday, August 3–Sunday, August 13, and it is indeed sizeable. Across that 11-day span, more than 300 artists will unveil their work at 218 performances. That includes the familiar festival focus on specific spots around the city: North Burleigh, for events by the beach; the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, which means that more grassy shows await; Broadbeach, in the new cultural precinct; HOTA, Home of the Arts, the Goldie's go-to year-round; and the Currumbin Valley, where Acoustic Life of Sheds will set up for another year. That said, one of Bleach*'s big events for 2023 will hit the road, because that's what cement mixers do. These ones have been turned into works of art by Gold Coast-based artist Dion Parker, with a convey of eight vehicles adorned with monstrous but playful sights. Yes, they're monster trucks but in a different guise, as inspired Stephen King's horror short story Trucks, and they'll be taking to the streets all throughout the fest's dates. [caption id="attachment_903407" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peter Mathew[/caption] In North Burleigh, the esplanade is again the place to be, starting with the First Light opening service by William Barton and violinist Véronique Serret at 6am on launch day. After that, the Your Local North Burleigh Hub will feature eight hours of live tunes daily, while installations Pulse / Connect and Light Lines are meant to be interacted with — one turning your pulse rate into a vibrant sight at a beachside pyramid, the other shimmering like a kaleidoscope with over 1000 luminous lines. Then there's Looks Like a Tourist, which pops people in inflatable orange suits, gets them roaming, and wants everyone to consider the impact that its namesake has on scenic spots. Also a highlight: the self-explanatory ten-minute dance parties, again with a stunning backdrop. Over at Broadbeach, expect everything from cabaret and comedy to drag and theatre — and a floating barge concert series, Lebanese cafe with traditional food and music and Studio 54-style queer performance. Social Muscle Club will get you chatting with strangers, while The Pageant riffs on children's beauty pageants, as part of a lineup with more than 20 shows. [caption id="attachment_903405" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jorge Serra[/caption] For Bleach*'s stint at the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, Katie Noonan will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Joni Mitchell's Blue, and a free daily afternoon sound and meditation experience will help festival attendees find their bliss. HOTA's contribution to the lineup gives the festival rollerskating music theatre show Roller Coaster, which will take over the venue's outdoor stage, features plenty of action on four wheels and is inspired by true tales. And, it'll also host The Imaginary Aviary, where musicians improvise musical pieces as guided by the architecture of and art at the HOTA Gallery. [caption id="attachment_903403" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Light Vines[/caption] [caption id="attachment_903404" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nadia Achilles[/caption] Bleach* 2023 runs from Thursday, August 3–Sunday, August 13 at various locations around the Gold Coast. For further information, head to the festival website. Top image: Pekka Makinen.
An exploration of an exiled poet. The Australian premiere of legendary filmmaker Alejandro Jodorowsky's latest feature. An effort that's being called Peru's first bona fide horror movie. They're just three of the films showing at the first-ever Cine Latino Film Festival lineup, as Australia's first national fest dedicated to showcasing the best in Latin American cinema prepares to tour the country this month. While the complete program features more than 30 movies from Mexico, Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Cuba, Uruguay, Colombia, Venezuela, Chile, Guatemala and Puerto Rico, there's a reason that the first of the flicks mentioned above — the Pablo Larraín-directed, Gael García Bernal-starring Neruda — has been plucked straight from Cannes to open the festival. The last time the filmmaker and actor worked together, the excellent No was the end result, so expect another insightful look at Chilean politics from their second collaboration. Jodorowsky's Endless Poetry should rank among the festival's just-as-eagerly-anticipated titles, especially by fans of the director's '70s cult classics El Topo and The Holy Mountain and his most recent effort The Dance of Reality — or anyone who marvelled at what could've been when they watched the entertaining documentary Jodorowsky's Dune. And whileThe Womb doesn't come with quite the same pedigree, it does boast a chilling storyline involving one of the horror genre's favourite topics: motherhood. Elsewhere, a chronicle of the pop star known as the 'Mexican Madonna', an insight into current state of a formerly luxurious Havana hotel, and more than a couple of soccer-themed efforts all feature among the feast of Spanish and Portuguese-language fare, as do Peruvian road movie Solos and Venezuelan beauty queen black comedy 3 Beauties. Just perusing the program is enough to make you want to jump on a plane for Latin America, however for those who can't enjoy an overseas holiday at the moment, immersing yourself in the films of the region really is the next best thing.
If you're lucky enough to score tickets to Meredith Music Festival in any year via the event's ballot, one of Australia's best fests awaits no matter the lineup. 2025's roster of acts is characteristically impressive, however. On the bill: TV on the Radio, Atarashii Gakko! and Perfume Genius, for starters, as well as Thee Sacred Souls, Pa Salieu, HAAi, Bar Italia, Colin Hay and Mildlife. And, there's still more where the came from. Folk Bitch Trio, Saya Gray, RONA. and Omar Souleyman are on the lineup, too. So are Dames Brown, Radio Free Alice, Sam Austins RP Boo, Wax'o Paradiso, Florist and Jack J. Add in Drifting Clouds, Dr Sure's Unusual Practice, Central Australian Aboriginal Women's Choir, Mouseatouille, Brown Spirits and Lazy Susan on MC duties, and expect a jam-packed three days across Friday, December 5–Sunday, December 7, 2025. [caption id="attachment_1017125" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chip Mooney[/caption] How is the fest crew describing this year's event? "One of the best places on earth to spend a weekend, the Meredith Supernatural Amphitheatre has been natured and nurtured and then natured again, for the singular purpose of hosting the time of your life," organisers advise. So, expect "a permanent and purpose-built underground wunderland that provides optimal conditions for rarefied reverie", as well as to get "lost in music, lost in one another, for three days and two nights of Sup'ed up saucery". [caption id="attachment_1017126" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sumner Dilworth[/caption] Meredith Music Festival 2025 Lineup TV on the Radio Atarashii Gakko! Perfume Genius Thee Sacred Souls Pa Salieu HAAi Bar Italia Colin Hay Mildlife Folk Bitch Trio Saya Gray RONA. Omar Souleyman Dames Brown Radio Free Alice Sam Austins RP Boo Wax'o Paradiso Florist Jack J Drifting Clouds Dr Sure's Unusual Practice Central Australian Aboriginal Women's Choir Mouseatouille Brown Spirits Lazy Susan Top images: Leah Hulst, Cody Critcheloe.
Life-changing meals aren't just found in the hottest restaurants. Whether you're travelling on a budget or just want to find out what dishes locals actually hold nearest and dearest, looking beyond the standard menu ensures you encounter something a little more exciting. Luckily, taking your next culinary adventure off the beaten path is just a matter of opening yourself up to kaleidoscopic street food markets and tucked-away joints. Together with Intrepid, we've curated a list of epic food experiences that you can enjoy that aren't in a restaurant. Monjayaki You've probably heard of okonomiyaki, but what about its lesser-known cousin? Monjayaki sees fresh ingredients like cabbage, corn, kimchi and cod cooked on a piping-hot griddle, then shaped into a doughnut as rich dashi broth is poured into the middle. Once mixed and fried, it's similar to okonomiyaki, just with a runnier texture and more delicious caramelised bits fused to the bottom. Synonymous with Tokyo's Tsukishima district, monjayaki is the ideal Japanese street food to try on your next trip. Cao Lau Vietnamese staples like pho and banh mi are deservedly adored, but it's not every day you can enjoy a hot bowl of cao lau. The most beloved dish in Hoi An — a fascinating port city shaped by its merchant past — what makes this local meal so special is how its noodles are prepared. Soaked in wells where water is mixed with wood ash collected from the Cham Islands, this gives the noodles a smokey flavour and firm texture. Typically served with thinly sliced pork, greens and bean sprouts, plan your trip to Hoi An to experience the dish. Bindae-Tteok Travelling to South Korea means you're bound to encounter a myriad of mazey markets bursting with sumptuous dishes you won't likely find on any restaurant menu. In Seoul, the go-to destination is Gwangjang Market — a sprawling gastronomic haven made even more popular by Netflix's 'Street Food' series. Across 5,000 stalls, flavours that tantalise your tastebuds are around every corner, including the wonders of bindae-tteok. This street food favourite sees mung bean batter combined with cabbage, kimchi and pork, then deep-fried to perfection and served with condiments like soy sauce and vinegar. Chiles En Nogada Finding authentic Mexican cuisine in Australia can be tricky. So, if you're planning a real food adventure to experience the good stuff, setting your sights on the country's national dishes is a smart way to get your palate up to speed with what's what. Native to Puebla, chiles en nogada bursts with bright flavours, featuring stuffed chillies covered in creamy walnut sauce. Best eaten when pomegranates are freshest from August to October, the dish's patriotic red, white and green ingredients give every bite a little extra zeal. Medfouna Influenced by cultures from Europe to Asia, traditional Moroccan food is the amalgamation of countless flavours. Yet for a dish beloved for hundreds of years by the country's nomadic Amazigh people, medfouna ensures you discover the taste of High Atlas cuisine. Nicknamed 'Amazigh pizza', medfouna is a stuffed flatbread set atop hot stones and buried beneath the red sand to cook. Loaded with meats, nuts, vegetables, herbs and spices, it's soon dug up and cut into slices, resembling pizza as you've never seen before. Ambul Thiyal Every Sri Lankan food extravaganza needs an abundance of hoppers, sambal and lamprais. Yet being a tropical paradise, overlooking the region's seafood is a mistake. Ambul thiyal, a sour fish curry, is one dish that elegantly balances the cuisine's intense spices with tangy goodness. Commonly made with fresh tuna, a fragrant mix of aromatic spices brings this beloved curry to life with black pepper, cinnamon, pandan and turmeric adding more and more flavour. Served with rice, the secret ingredient is goraka — a tiny tropical fruit loved for its tartness. Baccala Mantecato Italian cuisine is found worldwide for good reason — it's fresh, fun and made to share. However, it's best not to lump the country's cuisine together as a monolith. When you're chasing the best Italian flavours, the region-to-region, town-to-town variations make all the difference. An essential Venetian dish, baccala mantecato, or salted cod, is a stellar example of this local heritage. Brought to Venice from Norway by 15th-century traders, the cod is soaked and whipped, then served on toasted bread or polenta — perfect when sipping on an aperitif. Malai Ki Sabzi It's hard to imagine food more flavourful than Mughlai cuisine. Renowned for its rich, colourful dishes, much of what you'll taste is packed with potent ingredients like saffron, cardamon, cream and butter. Malai ki sabzi is a traditional meal that captures the magic. Local vegetables are cooked with cream and given a pungent boost with the full-flavoured combination of garlic, turmeric, coriander and green chilli. Take a food adventure to India to learn how to make this incredible dish with help from a cook specialising in Mughlai cuisine. Pachamanca Based upon centuries of colonial rule and immigration, Peruvian cuisine is a melting pot of global influences. In fact, two of the country's most popular cuisines — 'nikkei' and 'chifa' — showcase how local flavours have merged with Japanese and Chinese culinary ideas. The cuisine emerging from atop the Andes mountains is just as special. Meaning 'earth pot', pachamanca is the ideal introduction, with scorching hot rocks used to cook pork, lamb or chicken seasoned with black mint and broad beans. Journey to Cusco to get a taste. Francesinha Toasties are still enjoying time in the culinary sun, so why not feast on the Portuguese version of a croque monsieur? Almost every cafe in Porto has its own version, but a tried-and-true francesinha sees layers of beef, ham and sausage stacked between two thick slices of toast. This decadent creation is next draped in melted cheese from top to bottom, then drenched in a traditional sauce made from tomato and beer. Served alongside a big portion of fries, a Portugal food tour will highlight how the 'little French sandwich' is really a fully-fledged meal. Get out, explore, dive into adventure and find your WOW with Intrepid Travel. Find out more on the website. Top Images: Gwangjang Market, Mike Swigunski
Combine distortion, doom and a little bit of blues, and you have for yourself Russian Circles. This Chicago based, three-piece instrumental metal band has been around for eight years, and in that time have produced a number of highly praised, intense metal tracks. Russian Circles were only on our shores a year ago, performing to a wave of packed crowds across the country. This visit they're bringing along Utah metal duo Eagle Twin, consisting of guitarist, Gentry Densley, who was the musical leader of legendary hardcore group Iceburn, and drummer Tyler Smith. Having just released what has been described as their heaviest album to date, Empros, the Russian Circles' Friday performance at the HiFi is sure to run the nearby Seven Eleven dry of ear plugs. As a band noted for being able to expand upon their recorded material live through the use of their extensive effects and loop pedals, this is not a show for Brisbane fans to miss. Check out Russian Circles's 'Death Rides a Horse'
Putt putt fans of Brisbane — so, everyone in Brisbane — it's time to do the monster mash while you're tap, tap, tapping your way around a mini golf course. This city of ours is home to more than a few places to unleash your short game, but only one of them keeps busting out seasonal theming and giving you a reason to celebrate special occasions with a putter in your hand. For the past two Christmases, the Victoria Park Putt Putt Course has given itself a festive revamp. Mini golf is more fun with reindeer, obviously. Earlier in 2021, the venue celebrated Easter as well, courtesy of a candy-themed course. Now, it's getting into the Halloween spirit by giving its greens a spooky makeover. No, missing a hole in one won't be the most terrifying thing about your next stint on the course. From Friday, September 17–Sunday, October 31 (naturally), the site will become home to all things frightening. If a haunted house was to meet up with a mini golf course, this is what it'd look like. So, you'll be putting around greens with names like Pumpkin Patch, Witch's Way, The Freaky Forest and Skeleton's Graveyard. Obviously pumpkins will feature heavily — plus skeletons, spiderwebs, grave headstones, ghosts and all the usual scary paraphernalia. Bookings are essential, with the course open from 6am–10pm daily. Fancy a few holes before work? Want to add some fun to your lunch break? Need something to look forward to come quitting time? They're all options. Just remember that it's a family-friendly affair, so you'll likely have plenty of company. Tickets cost $22 per adult. Images: Pandora Photography.
As far as boozy beverages go, nothing beats the espresso martini. It gives you a buzz, it's a crowd-pleaser and most venues have one on their menu. In fact, they're so beloved, Brisbane has scored a couple of festivals dedicated to them — and, to put a spring in everyone's step in 2021 (because we need it, let's be honest), another one is about to hit. Espresso Fesso — An Espresso Martini Festival will take over Welcome to Bowen Hills on Saturday, February 27 — and, because it's likely to sell out quicker than the jolt from your favourite beverage, it's hosting two separate sessions from 11am–2pm and 3–6pm. As it's happening on a Saturday, you can either get your caffeinated cocktail fix without worrying about the alarm going off the next morning, or spend your other day off feeling mighty energetic. Of course, there are no prizes for guessing what's on offer. Still, don't just expect the usual 'tinis combos of coffee and alcohol. More than ten Brissie joints will be stirring up a storm, so you'll have plenty of different versions to try. If that sounds like enough to make you bounce around Bowen Hills, then that's the point; however, there'll also be food available to line your stomach. You'll get one drink included in your ticket, and you can buy take-home cocktails as well. The lack of sleep that night is also part of the package, obviously. Tickets go on sale at 5pm on Monday, February 1.
Finally, 2020 is delivering the right kind of surprise: an unexpected sequel to 2006 mockumentary Borat! Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan. If at any point in 2020 you've wondered what Borat Sagdiyev might make of both COVID-19 and the upcoming US election — and what he might coax unsuspecting interviewees to admit about those topics, too — this 14-years-later sequel is here to deliver the answer. Even better, it'll be available to stream in just a few weeks. Sacha Baron Cohen returns as the fictional Kazakh journalist, of course, in a film that no one knew existed until recently. Baron Cohen was seen shooting in mid-2020, but only in the past month has it emerged that he was secretly working on Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan. (Yes, this out-of-the-blue follow-up was always going to have a lengthy and silly title.) Streaming globally via Amazon Prime Video from Friday, October 23, Borat Subsequent Moviefilm sees its eponymous character make another trip to the US, this time with his daughter (Irina Nowak) in tow. After the first film apparently brought "great shame to Kazakhstan", as Borat tells us in the new movie's just-dropped first trailer, he's on a secret mission. But he's famous in America now, so that sparks a few challenges — and requires a few disguises. If you're wondering what Borat's mission is, he's planning to give his daughter as a gift "to someone close to the throne" — aka current US Vice President Mike Pence. Along the way, he tries to kill the coronavirus by hitting it with a frying pan, dresses up like Donald Trump, dances more than once, exposes plenty of unpleasant viewpoints among those he meets and finds an unusual way to wear a face mask. So, typical Borat antics — and that's just in this first sneak peek. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Rsa4U8mqkw&feature=youtu.be Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan will be available to stream via Amazon Prime Video from Friday, October 23.
When you get cosy on the couch with Netflix for entertainment in 2025, you'll be getting sleuthing and tap, tap, tapping; returning to the Upside Down and Nevermore Academy; seeing Oscar Isaac bring Jacob Elordi to life; and discovering which new twisted visions of humanity's use of technology that Charlie Brooker has dreamed up now. They're just some of the movies and TV shows that are set to join your streaming queue this year, with the platform unveiling its annual overview (see also: 2022, 2023 and 2024) of what's hitting its catalogue. 2025's slate also boasts Squid Game's final season, a sequel to The Old Guard, a new Fear Street flick and more Nobody Wants This. From the above, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery marks the third film in the Benoit Blanc franchise, this time with Daniel Craig (Queer) joined by Josh O'Connor (Challengers), Glenn Close (Back in Action), Josh Brolin (Outer Range), Mila Kunis (Goodrich), Jeremy Renner (Mayor of Kingstown), Kerry Washington (The Six Triple Eight), Andrew Scott (Ripley), Cailee Spaeny (Civil War), Daryl McCormack (Bad Sisters) and Thomas Haden Church (Twisted Metal). Adam Sandler (Spaceman) is back on the green in Happy Gilmore 2, which arrives almost three decades after the franchise's first golfing comedy. And, after riffing on Frankenstein in various ways for much of his career, Guillermo del Toro (Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio) has finally officially adapted Mary Shelley's novel — with Isaac (Moon Knight) as its namesake and Elordi (Priscilla) as his creature. As well as more of Charlize Theron (Fast X) in action mode and more RL Stine-based horror, Netflix's list of upcoming movies also sports more Sandler — this time with George Clooney (Wolfs) and Laura Dern (Lonely Planet) in Noah Baumbach's (White Noise) comedy Jay Kelly. Netflix's roster also features Conclave director Edward Berger's The Ballad of a Small Player, a gambling drama with Colin Farrell (The Penguin) and Tilda Swinton (The Room Next Door); Vanessa Kirby (Napoleon)-led page-to-screen thriller Night Always Comes; and Matt Damon (The Instigators) and Ben Affleck (The Flash) sharing the screen again in the Miami-set RIP, which co-stars Steven Yeun (Beef). Or, there's Cillian Murphy (Oppenheimer) portraying a fraying teacher in Steve — and Oscar-winning director Kathryn Bigelow making her first film since 2017's Detroit, with Idris Elba (Sonic the Hedgehog 3), Rebecca Ferguson (Silo), Anthony Ramos (Twisters) and Greta Lee (Past Lives) among the cast. Australian filmmaker Simon Stone (The Dig) adapts The Woman in Cabin 10 into a movie, starring Keira Knightley (Black Doves), Guy Pearce (The Brutalist) and Hannah Waddingham (The Fall Guy). Richard Osman's The Thursday Murder Club is hitting the screen with Helen Mirren (1923), Pierce Brosnan (Four Letters of Love) and Ben Kingsley (The Killer's Game); Roald Dahl's The Twits is getting the animated treatment; and documentaries on Eddie Murphy, the Manson murders and the Titan submersible are on the way. Even just among the movie options, the lineup goes on. So, a reboot of 1975 Japanese thriller The Bullet Train, this time called Bullet Train Explosion, sits alongside the Omar Sy (The Killer)-led French Lover, South Korean missing-person flick Revelations and Troll sequel Troll 2 — and plenty more. TV fans can get excited about the returns of Stranger Things and Wednesday, with the former saying farewell — but the Duffer brothers have advised that they're executive producing two new shows, The Boroughs and Something Very Bad Is Going to Happen, that'll debut in 2026. Back on 2025, the television comebacks also span Black Mirror, A Man on the Inside, The Vince Staples Show, Alice in Borderland, The Sandman, The Witcher, Cobra Kai, You, Big Mouth, Emily in Paris, The Diplomat and MONSTER. There's much to look forward to among Netflix's new TV shows for the year as well, such as heading back to 1850s Oregon with Lena Headey (Beacon 23) and Gillian Anderson (Scoop) in The Abandons, Claire Danes (Full Circle) playing a writer facing grief in The Beast in Me, Jude Law (Skeleton Crew) and Jason Bateman (Carry-On) starring in Black Rabbit, and the Danish Department Q novels receiving an English-language adaptation led by Matthew Goode (Abigail). Tina Fey (Mean Girls), Steve Carell (Despicable Me 4), Will Forte (Bodkin) and Colman Domingo (Sing Sing) team up for The Four Seasons, playing friends going away for a weekend; The Residence sets a whodunnit in the White House; Last Samurai Standing journeys back to 19th-century Japan; and Italian historical drama The Leopard, which already jumped from a novel to cinemas in the 60s, is now headed to television. Plus, you can also make a date with Agatha Christie adaptation The Seven Dials Mystery, with Helena Bonham Carter (One Life) and Martin Freeman (The Responder) featuring — plus Sirens with Julianne Moore (May December), Meghann Fahy (The Perfect Couple), Milly Alcock (House of the Dragon), Kevin Bacon (MaXXXine), Glenn Howerton (It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia) and Josh Segarra (The Big Door Prize). Conspiracy thriller Zero Day boasts Robert De Niro (Killers of the Flower Moon), Angela Bassett (9-1-1), Lizzy Caplan (Fatal Attraction) and Jesse Plemons (Kinds of Kindness) among its stars; Victoria Beckham gets her own documentary to match her husband's; Eric Bana (Force of Nature: The Dry 2) plays a special agent for the National Parks Service in Untamed; and Hacks' Megan Stalter leads Lena Dunham's Too Much. Apple Cider Vinegar and The Survivors are among the new shows made in Australia, the first ripped from the headlines and led by Kaitlyn Dever (Good Grief), and the second adapting The Dry author Jane Harper's Tasmania-set novel. Check out Netflix's ads and teasers for its 2025 slate below: New movies and TV shows will hit Netflix throughout 2025 — head to the streaming platform for its current catalogue. Images: Netflix.
Fish Lane's Town Square is putting its patch of pavement to good use, with markets now popping up in the South Brisbane spot. While bars and eateries line the laneway, and festivals have taken it over as well, this is the first time that Fish Lane has hosted its own stalls — and given you a reason to head by to browse and buy locally made art, ceramics and other goods. First debuting on Sunday, April 11, and now slated to return on Sunday, June 6, the markets span everything from fashion, plants, art and jewellery to natural skincare and accessories for your dog as well. Obviously, you can also bring your four-legged friend with you as you browse the stalls. Food-wise, Fish Lane's existing cafes and eateries will keep you feed and caffeinated, so you can add a visit to Cups on Melbourne or The Paladar to your itinerary. For lunch, Julius, Southside, La Lune Wine Co, Chu The Phat, Big Roddy's and Grassfed will all be tempting your tastebuds The Fish Lane Markets run from 10am–2pm. If you haven't been to the precinct's Town Square yet, head for the rail bridge — you'll find it underneath. Updated: June 1.
For the first time in two decades, a new cinema has opened in the Brisbane CBD. And yet, the Elizabeth Picture Theatre is steeped in the past. Turning the heritage-listed Tara House building into a movie-going destination, there's no missing the venue's gloriously old-world interior, ranging from timber aplenty to stained glass to vintage movie posters adorning the entry staircase. There's no missing its vantage opposite the hole-in-the-ground that was once the Regent, either. It's actually a case of history repeating for owners Peter and Stephen Sourris, the brothers not only keeping the drive-in experience alive down at Yatala, but also responsible for the revamped, reopened New Farm Cinemas. When that beloved site welcomed its first customers back in 2014, it was the culmination of a massive refurbishment and rebuild, turning a two-screen venue into six, and restoring a place that had been dormant and decaying since 2003. The Elizabeth Picture Theatre hasn't ever projected flicks onto silver screens before, but readying it to step into that arena was also a considerable feat. "You should've seen it!" exclaims Stephen on a tour of the venue a week before it's scheduled to open the doors, when the fixtures are shining but there's still a few last-minute finishing touches to be made. Thankfully, there are no signs of a building that was previously left to fester or a leaking roof, making the transformation to gleaming retro cinema all the more impressive. Kicking off its new life on October 5 with sessions of Blade Runner 2049, Battle of the Sexes, It and more, the place that was previously the Irish Club now boasts five quiet and inviting theatres ranging from 22-seat to 150-seat capacity, including the showpiece space that is the Tara Room, plus three gold class-style cinemas called Royal Rooms. In the former, patrons will find ample remnants of its last guise as a ballroom, such as the ornate original ceiling and the aforementioned windows (which are covered by curtains when the film rolls). In the latter, expect a VIP experience with reclining seats, food and drinks delivered while you watch, and a separate, newly installed bar. Two more cinemas might be added to the basement level in the future; however the Elizabeth Picture Theatre already has plenty to keep audiences interested. A ground-floor ticket booth and candy bar area sits in front of a towering staircase, while the first storey features lush carpets, a cabinet full of nostalgic curiosities — mementos and advertisements from the CBD's bustling, picture palace-filled heyday, in fact — plus the site's old bar serving up boozy and non-alcoholic drinks, popcorn, choc tops and the like. Function spaces for hire, complete with portraits of Marilyn Monroe and Paul Newman, glistening chandeliers and old leather couches, are also available. Head to the rear and back downstairs for the deluxe cinemas, as well as a bright, grassy outdoor entertainment area. If it seems like the type of place you don't usually see these days, that's because it is; Stephen remarks that it reminds him of the old Regent, which stopped operating across the road in 2009. If it seems like a mammoth endeavour, that's because the Sourris' have "spent millions of dollars and the best part of two years refurbishing the building, which needed lots of attention." Understandably, they'll be hosting an official grand opening on November 8 to celebrate. Indeed, the Elizabeth Picture Theatre marks the address' first significant change since 1919, when the Irish Club first moved in. Prior to that, it housed produce merchants and warehousing firms, with the building initially springing up in 1878. As well as nodding to times gone by, the Sourris' efforts are part of a surprisingly cinephile-embracing Brisbane that just keeps attracting new movie theatres at the moment. While closing up shop was common in the past — at the Regent, the CBD's two other now-demolished spots around the corner, the dormant Tribal Theatre, and with the Schonell in St Lucia stoping its regular screenings earlier this year — setting up new ones is the current trend. The new Dendy will open in Coorparoo in November, Reading Cinemas are coming to Newmarket by the end of the year and a dine-in cinema is slated for Woolloongabba by 2022. Find the Elizabeth Picture Theatre at 175 Elizabeth Street, Brisbane CBD. Head to their website for session times and tickets, and their Facebook page for further details. Images: Anwyn Howarth.
Brisbanites, heading to Tokyo just got cheaper, whether it's your first trip or you're planning a return visit to the Japanese capital. Jetstar is rolling out its latest route from Tuesday, October 31, launching a Brisbane–Narita service — its first direct to Tokyo from the River City. The budget airline first announced the news midyear, and now launch day has arrived. On Boeing 787 Dreamliners, the carrier will run five return flights a week from Brissie to the home of Tokyo Tower, the Studio Ghibli theme park, TeamLab's digital gallery and more. From December, that'll increase to daily services. The move makes Jetstar the first low-cost airline to connect the two cities, and sees Jetstar stop flying from the Gold Coast to Narita — with its last service making the trip on Sunday, October 29 — to focus on the Brisbane route instead. Start making holiday plans, then — and not just to Tokyo. Also soon to launch: new international routes direct from Brisbane to Osaka and Seoul, with the trio of legs expected to see Jetstar will cater for more than 480,000 new seats each year out of the Queensland capital. For folks keen on cherry blossoms in Osaka, the carrier will boast four return legs a week from Brisbane from Friday, February 2, 2024. The new Seoul flights will take off the day prior, on Thursday, February 1, 2024, with three return services weekly. Jetstar is still flying to Japan from Cairns as well. Its extra services out of Brissie stem from a partnership with Brisbane Airport, with support from Queensland's Attracting Aviation Investment Fund (AAIF), which is joint Government and airport initiative to help kick the state's visitor economy back into gear. Cost-wise, one-way fares currently start at $425 to Tokyo, $363 to Osaka and $329 to Seoul. Jetstar's new international routes to Tokyo from Brisbane start flying from Tuesday, October 31, 2023 — with Osaka and Seoul routes beginning in February 2024. Head to the airline's website for tickets and further details. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
Summer might still be months away, but one of the season's main bugbears now has a solution. As everyone that's enjoyed an icy cold popsicle on a sweltering day knows, frozen sweet treats come with their own inbuilt game — can you lick your way through your icy pole fast enough to avoid getting covered in watery drips? The answer is no, of course — until now. Dripping icy poles might become a thing of the past thanks to food artists Bombas & Parr, who've unveiled what they're calling the world's first non-melting ice lolly. Their creation finds its basis in a substance that dates back seven decades, and one you probably haven't heard of. During World War II, inventor Geoffrey Pyke came up with pyrkete, a frozen composite material made with a combination of sawdust and wood pulp dispersed in ice. It was originally part of his lofty dreams to build a floating runway that could be used in the middle of the ocean during battle — all made of ice. The structure didn't end up eventuating, but his idea gave Bombas & Parr their starting point all these years later. Bombas & Parr's version doesn't use any wood-related materials, but is made with edible fruit fibres instead. The London-based outfit says their pykrete-inspired icy poles "last immeasurably longer than conventional ice lollies", and if their experiment goes down a treat, they'll look at rolling out the desserts in supermarkets. For now, those wanting to give the ice blocks a try will need to be in London, and will also need to visit Bompas & Parr's current SCOOP: A Wonderful Ice Cream World exhibition. On August 22, attendees will be able to buy and try the non-melting icy poles, and offer their feedback. And if you're wondering about ice creams with the same properties, they're already a thing thanks to researchers in Japan.
The Centipede Cinema is way less creepy than it sounds. The Bartlett School of Architecture in Portugal has designed a cinema in which each moviegoer manoeuvres his or her body into one of the yellow tubes that makes up the giant centipede structure to view the film. Located in Guimarães and conceived by Professor Colin Fournier with artist Marysia Lewandowska, the Centipede Cinema was commissioned by the 2012 European Capital of Culture. The design team for the project included NEON founders, George King and Mark Nixon. Resembling a sort of futuristic alien spaceship, this highly unique cinema invites people to enter one of the 16 nozzles poking out from below the cork structure. The viewer's entire upper body is encompassed by the nozzle, however the legs are out in the open for the rest of the world to see. This creates what looks like a giant cork centipede but is really just 16 people enjoying a film.
Fried chicken has long been one of Brisbane's favourite food, alongside burgers and doughnuts. Yep, we're a healthy bunch. We've all jumped around town and eaten as much greasy poultry as we can; however Lucky Egg wants to put that love of fry fry chicky chick to the test. Behold the Fire Mouth hot wing eating competition. How much spicy chicken can you stomach? Do you want to know the answer? Keen on testing your mettle in front of an audience? You know how eating comps work, so you know that all of that is on the agenda. It's the first time Lucky Egg have delved into the whole stuff-your-face-for-prizes fold — even if plenty of people eating their chooks do that anyway — so expect them to put on something special. Entry is free, but participants must register in advance by emailing info@thebrightsidebrisbane.com.au.
Across four seasons of Stranger Things so far, entering a rift to the Upside Down hasn't transported anyone Down Under. But jumping into the hit Netflix series' world keeps proving a reality in Australia — first via one of those portals popping up in Bondi back in 2022, and next courtesy of Stranger Things: The Experience, which has just locked in its Aussie debut at Luna Park Sydney as part of Vivid's just-unveiled 2025 program. Luna Park Sydney and immersive experiences based on Netflix shows keep going hand in hand of late; since the end of 2024, the Harbour City tourist attraction has been hosting Squid Game: The Experience, letting small-screen fans dive into another streaming smash. At the time of writing, playing Red Light, Green Light with Young-hee in Luna Park's big top is on the agenda until late April. Stranger Things: The Experience will run from Friday, May 23–Saturday, June 14. The must-attend event falls into the Ideas portion of Vivid's lineup. Get ready to visit 1986 — and also Hawkins, Indiana, of course — in what promises to be an interactive stint of Stranger Things-loving fun. Locations from the show are part of the setup, as is a supernatural mystery. And yes, you can expect to feel nostalgic, even if you don't have your own memories of the 80s because you hadn't been born yet. Stranger Things: The Experience isn't just about visiting recreations of settings that you've seen while watching Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown, The Electric State) and the gang. The installation features its own storyline, where playing along means trying to save Hawkins from yet another threat. And yes, you will take a trip to the Upside Down. You'll also be able to drink themed cocktails. Based on its time in other cities, Demogorgons and/or Vecna might await, too, along with Christmas lights, Scoops Ahoy and Surfer Boy Pizza. The experience initially opened in New York in 2022, and has enjoyed dates with Los Angeles, San Francisco, Atlanta, Seattle, Toronto, London, Paris and São Paulo since, with a Rio de Janeiro stint also on the way. "The rift is open and we're excited that our Stranger Things fans will get to jump into the magic once more," said Greg Lombardo, Head of Experiences at Netflix, back when the New York iteration launched. "This time they will take on the challenges themselves and work alongside Eleven, Mike, and the rest of the gang to fight the evil monsters plaguing Hawkins. As Dustin would say, you always say we should never stop being curious, to always open any curiosity door we find," Lombardo continued. Hanging out for new Stranger Things back in your Netflix queue? That's due to happen in 2025, when the show's fifth and final series arrives — although there's no exact release date as yet. Stranger Things: The Experience arrives at Luna Park Sydney, 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point from Friday, May 23. For more information, head to the Vivid Sydney website. Vivid Sydney 2025 runs from Friday, May 23–Saturday, June 14 across Sydney. Head to the festival website for further information. Images: Netflix.
Everything old is new again at the New Farm Cinemas, the iconic Brisbane venue formerly known as the Village Twin finally reopening its doors. On August 1, the revamped theatre will welcome the public into its retro-styled confines for the first time since 2003. Boutique in style but big in impact, stage one of the renovated venue sees two screens entice cinephiles with a lineup of new and recent blockbusters — Guardians of the Galaxy, Lucy and Dawn of the Planet of the Apes among them. Patrons will enjoy state-of-the-art digital projection equipment and an Australian-first audio system as they sit in either all-new cinema seating or beanbags. The cinema’s second phase is still under construction, and is due to open by the end of the year. Four extra screens will be added, including two Gold Class facilities. Since purchasing the property in February 2013, Yatala Drive-in proprietors Peter and Stephen Sourris have worked to restore the cinema from an empty shell to a faithful recreation of its former glory. Their labours have paid off in a venue that reinstates the splendour of its most famous feature — the heritage-listed Purple Room, bathed in the colour from top to bottom — while salvaging other original elements and also celebrating the evolution of both the building and cinema in general. Stepping inside the New Farm Cinemas is akin to stepping back in time, with a modern twist. Walls of vintage movie posters for films such as Jaws, Mad Max, Saturday Night Fever and Serpico greet visitors, who can relax and appreciate the artwork in a foyer filled with brand new Eames furniture. Movie paraphernalia abounds, including tables and wine racks made from old film reels, and The Addams Family and Terminator 2: Judgment Day-themed pinball machines. A restored projector, dating back to 1904, provides a fetching centrepiece. Those familiar with the venue in its previous incarnation will feel a wave of nostalgia as they walk through the space. The floors retain the recognisable circular-patterned carpet throughout, in both renovated and new cinemas, and the glass chandelier many will remember still shines down from above. Other touches bring the past into future, from benches made from old cinema doors to the exposed beams of the roof trusses as a stairwell feature, to photo displays that provide a chronology of the cinema’s transformations. Since 1921, the site has hosted several incarnations of cinema screens, starting its life as the open-air Merthyr Picture Palace. It was remodelled in the 1930s to become the Astor, before morphing into the Village Twin in 1970, and now the New Farm Cinemas. The venue aims to cater for more than just film fans, with a street-level coffee and gelato cart adding an extra eating option to the popular stretch of Brunswick Street. Inside, the lounge bar serves pizza, light snacks and beverages that can be taken into every cinema in the fully licensed venue. Traditional movie snacks are available at the candy bar. For more information about the New Farm Cinemas, visit the New Farm Cinemas website.
If you're watching a film in a darkened theatre without some sort of snack in your hand, are you really at the cinema? Lovers of popcorn and choc tops certainly don't think so. And while whipping up a bowl of popped corn kernels in the microwave is a rather easy way to help recreate that movie magic at home at the moment, enjoying a choc top — a proper cinema-quality choc top, not just your own attempt — isn't quite that simple while Australian picture palaces are temporarily closed. To help satisfy Australia's choc top cravings during the COVID-19 pandemic, Hoyts has been delivering them (and popcorn and other movie snacks as well). Other cinemas have been selling the desserts, too, such as Melbourne's Cinema Nova and Sydney's Golden Age Cinema and Bar. But if you'd just like to grab a few from the supermarket, you'll now find Bulla's choc tops in Coles' freezer aisle for a limited period. It's the first time that Bulla's choc tops have been available outside of movie theatres, with different flavours on offer in different states. Ice cream fiends in New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania can lick their way through mint, vanilla, salted caramel, and cookies and cream varieties, while Queenslanders, Western Australians and South Australians can opt for mint, vanilla, choc fudge and boysenberry. https://www.instagram.com/p/CArIHWhgWUg/ Bulla and Coles haven't revealed just how long the choc tops will be on the freezer shelves; however the fact that the majority of cinemas aren't aiming to reopen in Australia until mid-July might be a good guide. Find Bulla's choc tops in the Coles freezer aisle for a limited time. For further details, visit the Bulla or Coles websites.
Bluesfest has been a firm fixture of Australia's Easter weekend music calendar since its inception in 1990. Well, give or take a couple of years of COVID cancellations, of course. But now, for the first time, Melburnians will be able to get their Bluesfest fix without the pilgrimage north, when the inaugural Bluesfest Melbourne delivers the goods from Saturday, April 8–Sunday, April 9 next year. Yep, the iconic blues and roots celebration is getting its very own southern spinoff, running the same weekend that the OG fest descends on its usual home in the Byron Bay region. The new instalment will take over the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre for two days of live music, dancing, eating and drinking, headlined by renowned names like Lucinda Williams, C.W Stoneking and Buddy Guy. [caption id="attachment_877649" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kasey Chambers, by Sam Meuleman[/caption] The indoor setting is set to be a distinct change-up from the fest's not-so-weatherproof Byron base, with multiple indoor stages and theatre spaces ensuring not even Melbourne's erratic weather can throw a spanner in the works. The precinct will fire up with sounds from Aussie festival favourites like Xavier Rudd, Kasey Chambers, Henry Wagons and Ash Grunwald, along with the likes of The Doobie Brothers, Eric Gales, Paolo Nutini, Steve Earle, Melbourne Ska Orchestra and Eugene "Hideaway" Bridges. All up, you'll be able to catch more than 30 performances across the weekend. [caption id="attachment_877647" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ash Grunwald[/caption] There are a range of ticketing options on offer, from single-day passes to full weekend tickets. Buzz has also been building for the OG Bluesfest's next edition, with names like Beck, Elvis Costello, Mavis Staples and Gang of Youths set to make their way to Byron Events Farm at Tyagarah for a huge Easter weekend. [caption id="attachment_877646" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Doobie Brothers[/caption] Bluesfest Melbourne will run from April 8–9, 2023, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Grab tickets online from 9am on Monday, November 14. Top Images: Buddy Guy. Lucinda Williams, by Danny Clinch.
It has only been three short years since Call Me By Your Name first hit cinemas; however the yearning romance instantly cemented itself as an all-time great. Adapting André Aciman's novel of the same name, every element of the film hit exactly the right note — including the tender love story, charting a summer dalliance between Elio (Timothée Chalamet) and Oliver (Armie Hammer), as well as director Luca Guadagnino's gorgeous use of the story's Italian Riveria setting. Hammer's awkward dance moves, Michael Stuhlbarg playing the dad everyone wishes they had, the use of peaches — you can remember this heartwrenching movie for any or all of the above. Actually, because there's never a bad time to revisit Call Me By Your Name, you can also re-experience it all again on the big screen on Valentine's Day. Palace James Street is doing the honours, kicking off at 6.45pm on Friday, February 14. Tickets cost $15, or $10 if you're a Palace member. If you really feel like diving in, you can also purchase peach cocktails. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9AYPxH5NTM
Minions: they’re cute, yellow and mostly unintelligible — and they’re everywhere. Off screen, it certainly feels that way, with every store seemingly filled with brightly coloured merchandise. On screen, it definitely feels that way in their first stand-alone film. That's the point, though. Those mumbling, bumbling critters first sighted in Despicable Me and its sequel are inescapable, both in the antics they cause, and to audiences. In fact, minions aren't just prevalent in every frame of the movie that shares their name; as the film makes plain, the overalls-and-goggles-wearing fellows have always been here. An amusing introduction big on revisionist history and narrated by Australia's own Geoffrey Rush charts their evolution from the sea to swarming around a host of bad guys — dinosaurs, pharaohs, Dracula and Napoleon included. Those with short memories might need reminding that the titular figures are the ultimate henchmen, living to serve villainous masters. That's what they seek in 1968, and wreak havoc across several continents to find. After bad luck with their previous horrible bosses, and centuries spent holed up in an icy Antarctic cave as a result, leader Kevin, teddy bear-clutching Bob and guitar-playing Stuart (all voiced by co-director and Despicable Me veteran Pierre Coffin) trundle back to civilisation to find a new scoundrel to trail. At a convention for rogues and rascals, they team up with the scheming Scarlett Overkill (Sandra Bullock), who tasks them with stealing the crown of Queen Elizabeth II (Jennifer Saunders). To say things don't go smoothly is an understatement. Soon, the trio is fleeing from their would-be overlord and her inventor husband (Jon Hamm). Expect slapstick hijinks aplenty, with much of the mayhem designed with the minions' adorable nature in mind and little else. In general, the golden, rounded figures don't make that much sense, so it follows that neither does the madcap movie and its frantic array of gags. Eschewing logic, abandoning emotional awakenings and avoiding imparting a message add to the delight of the film in this day and age of lesson-centric all-ages affairs. As they flit across the screen to a period-appropriate soundtrack of the Rolling Stones, the Doors, the Who and the Beatles, the sidekicks turned stars simply enjoy revelling in silliness and anarchy. That's what Minions is: chaotic, amusing fun, albeit of the slight, sweet and ultimately disposable variety. In what amounts to an origin story, Coffin and his crew never take anything too seriously, including shoehorning in as many nods to other genres as they can — such as superhero flicks, of course, as well as royal comedies and even monster movies. They also never forget that, in their first two big screen outings, the minions were the primary source of comic relief. No doubt they'll be fulfilling that role again in Despicable Me 3, due out in 2017, but for now, they do just fine lapping up the limelight all by themselves.
Maybe you were planning to do your Christmas shopping in the CBD this year, and had a stop at Brisbane Arcade on your agenda. Perhaps your present-buying strategy just involves seeing what's on offer in the Queen Street Mall — amid all the festive hustle and bustle, obviously. For the fourth year in a row, there's an option that involves all of the above: the Brisbane Arcade Christmas Markets. That's when, for two big days, the Brisbane Arcade spills out onto the mall to fill it full of seasonal markets showcasing designer wares, fashion, gifts, accessories and other goodies (for your loved ones or for yourself). In 2023, the QSM takeover is happening from 10am–6pm on Friday, December 8 and 10am–4pm on Saturday, December 9. So, you can stop by after work during late-night shopping or make a day of it. The markets usually involve tunes — 'tis the season — and photo opportunities, and you can obviously still wander through the arcade to check out its latest festive decorations.
The course of true love never did run smooth, William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream told us — and, for three weeks in February 2021, the Gold Coast will be home to a pop-up museum that explores that inescapable truth. At the Heartbreak Hotel: Museum of Love and Disappointments, trinkets, relics and remnants from real-life relationships will be on display. Each one tells a story, whether it's a treasured item that once belonged to someone's ex, a reminder of an existing couple's first date or a pile of passionate notes. For $10 a ticket, you'll see everything from a wedding garter worn half a century ago to a pilfered Playstation. The latter comes with a note: "you broke my heart so I stole your Playstation — how are you going to play FIFA now?". It'll all grace the QT Gold Coast's walls from Monday, February 1–Sunday, February 21, and your entry fee also includes a drink at the onsite Fixx Cafe or Stingray Lounge. If you happen to be checking in for a night's stay (take your special someone — it'd be fitting), you can see the exhibition for free. Everyone has their own reminders of past and present loves, of course. If you'd like to donate your own to go on display, you can do that, too, by contacting the venue. You'll need to share a story to go with it — or, you can keep whatever object makes you think of your partner or ex and just submit your story.
Following a big night out, scrolling through your snaps may be part of your morning-after routine, letting you bask in the glory of all those photos immortalising all that fun. Or, hitting up a gig, bar or party just mightn't be complete unless you're filling your socials while you're there. Whether one or both of the above apply to you, neither is out of the ordinary — so much so that heading to a shindig without being able to access your phone is now a novelty. That's exactly the kind of situation that Lane 8's record label This Never Happened is embracing, however, when it tours Australia's east coast with for a series of gatherings. At This Never Happened Presents, you won't have a screen in your hand — or face. You won't be swiping, texting or doing anything else with the gadget we're all addicted to, either. Attendees will have their phones taped upon arrival, because these dance music get-togethers are all about connecting IRL and in the moment. The tour has three Australian stops over one July weekend, including Brisbane's Brightside Outdoors in Brisbane on Sunday, July 16. Attendees enjoy tunes from Le Youth, Sultan & Shepard and PARIS on the dance floor — and you'll just have to rely upon your noggin to remember all the highlights afterwards. These will be This Never Happened's first shows in this part of the world, after launching in 2016, signing artists who've toured with producer and DJ Lane 8, and first hosting parties in 2017 and 2019 elsewhere around the globe.
Watching famous faces star in TV dramas about taking luxe holidays is 2021's current trend, and fans of The White Lotus and Nine Perfect Strangers are definitely here for it. Getting a big dose of travel envy while you're binge-watching? Fancy doing more than spectating via your screen once border restrictions and lockdowns lift? If you're particularly keen to spend some time hanging out in a scenic Byron Bay retreat that's been doubling as the fictional Tranquillum House — and playing host to Nicole Kidman, Melissa McCarthy, Michael Shannon and Luke Evans — you're in luck. In Nine Perfect Strangers, the real-life Somo Retreat doubles for Tranquillum — and it's now available to rent via Airbnb. So, your next getaway could see you literally following in Kidman and company's footsteps. We're talking about heading to the lavish location, and obviously not about navigating all of the show's twists and turns in real life. Soma is indeed all about heath and wellness just like its fictional counterpart, though, with the retreat stemming from technology entrepreneur Peter Ostick and wellness and meditation practitioner Gary Gorrow. You'll find it in Ewingsdale in New South Wales, and just a ten-minute drive outside of Byron Bay — and it has hit Airbnb as part of the platform's 'Luxe' offering of super swanky and expertly designed homes. If you've seen Nine Perfect Strangers, you'll know what you're in for in terms of facilities. The retreat comes complete with ten bedrooms all decked out with king-size beds, ensuite bathrooms, rain showers, and either their own balconies or direct access to the terrace — and there's also a freshwater infinity pool, communal fire pit and 22 acres of bamboo forest. Yes, that geodesic yoga dome exists, too, or you can soak in some calm in the zen garden. [caption id="attachment_823169" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Vince Valitutti/Hulu[/caption] Unsurprisingly, this is a real treat yo'self kind of spot — and the type of getaway that'd need to involve gathering the gang for one hefty hangout — with bookings for the entire place costing a whopping $6279.43 a night. You can also opt to pay extra to include massages, meditation courses, and breath and bodywork sessions as part of your stay, or Ayurvedic meals made by a specialised chef. You can book a stay at Soma in Ewingsdale, New South Wales, via Airbnb. Head to the platform's website for further details. The first four episodes of Nine Perfect Strangers are available to stream via Amazon Prime Video, with new episodes dropping weekly. Soma Retreat images: Romello Pereira. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Everyone has fond memories of playing Uno. If you didn't start a fight by whipping out a draw four just as someone was down to their last card, then you didn't really have a childhood. Yes, it really is the game of champions. It's also a game that Saccharomyces Beer Cafe is rather fond of — so much so that they hold a monthly competition. A word of warning: this isn't for the faint of heart. It is called the Uno Tournament of Death, after all. So flex those fingers, prepare to show off your number- and colour-matching skills, and get geared up to sledge, taunt and distract your opponents. All's fair in love and Uno, with prizes on offer for player that emerges victorious. If someone brings a themed deck (and everything from N*Sync cards to a special Sydney 2000 Olympics version really do exist), then we think everyone will be a winner.
How good at Pictionary would Sky Ferreira be? Would the doodles of Earl Sweatshirt be found in an art gallery? How would London Grammar go in a life drawing class? Sydney's FBi Radio intended to find out, by inviting a list of over 30 musicians to try their hand at a handdrawn masterpiece. Bringing back their wildly successful 'Brush With Fame' art auction, FBi asked a serious banquet of bands, rappers, ARIA-nominees, folksters, singers and beatmakers to create drawings on canvas especially for the station, ready for auction from 9pm Tuesday, November 25. All proceeds raise funds for the independent, not-for-profit, top notch station. Kudos to FBi for one of the best group show lineups around, y'ready? You (YOU) can own a handdrawn work by: Alt J, Ásgeir, Banks, Buck 65, Chali 2NA, Chet Faker, DARKSIDE, Dustin Tebutt, Earl Sweatshirt, Ears, El-P, Glass Animals, Holy Fuck, Ice Age, Four Tet, The Jezabels, Jon Hopkins, Killer Mike, Little Dragon, Little May, London Grammar, Lee Ranaldo, Megan Washington, Midlake, Mount Kimbie, Okkervil River, Phantogram, Phoenix, Sky Ferreira, Sly & Robbie, St Vincent, Veronica Falls, Warpaint. Phew. That's a bloody lineup. All works are on display over here. The online auction launches globally tonight at 9pm (AEDT) via eBay with bids starting at just AUD$50. Each piece comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity from FBi. The auction closes on Monday December 2 at 9pm (AEDT) and works will be shipped the following day — we're talking seriously perfect Christmas gifts right here. Here's a couple of our favourites in the bunch, that you'll have to furiously outbid us on. Again, the FBi 'Brush With Fame' online auction launches globally tonight at 9pm (AEDT) via eBay and closes on Monday December 2 at 9pm. Go! RUN!
By the time it is completed in 2013 the 104-story One World Trade Center, more simply known as 1 WTC and formerly known as the Freedom Tower, will be the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the third-tallest building in the world by pinnacle height. Last week the Port Authority gave a press tour of the World Trade Center site, but the lucky (assuming none of them suffer from acrophobia) folk at the Architect’s Newspaper were granted access all the way up to the vertigo-inducing 103rd floor of the lofty edifice. Before that date it was only construction workers who had taken in the incredible views of New York granted by this vantage point. These include the 9/11 memorial site, the tower, about a hundred inner-city rooftops and panoramic sights encompassing parts of all five boroughs. Fortunately those given the opportunity to ride a rickety metal elevator up 103 floors managed to keep their cool long enough to snap a few hundred photos, the majority of which have been posted up on the Architect’s Newspaper blog. Wait until your breakfast is sufficiently settled then browse through our own curated selection of images below. There’s no workers shouting, metal clanging or Queen’s “We Will Rock You” playing from a radio (apparently all aspects of the tour IRL) but it’s still pretty impressive. The core at the 103rd floor. Memorial in foreground with loading dock. 103rd ledge. Workers guide container. Manhattan. Path station. Warren Street from the 103rd floor. via Curbed NY; photos by Tom Stoelker at AN blog
From FernGully: the Last Rainforest to Moana — and including everything from Studio Ghibli's Pom Poko and Princess Mononoke to Pixar's Wall-E, too — many an animated movie has combined stunning frames with a stirring message about the environment. Add new Irish film Wolfwalkers to the list, with the gorgeous feature heading to Apple TV+ this year and likely to become your next favourite animated flick. Story-wise, the film follows a young wannabe hunter by the name of Robyn Goodfellowe (voiced by Honor Kneafsey). In a tale set centuries ago, she moves to Ireland with her father Bill (Sean Bean) when he's hired to eradicate the last wolf pack lurking in the woods. The locals, as overseen by an English Lord Protector (Simon McBurney), want to wipe out the wolves so that they can tear down the forest in the name of progress. But, after sneaking out to go exploring, Robyn befriends a girl called Mebh (Eva Whittaker) who just might be a member of a mythical tribe that's able to shapeshift into wolves while they're dreaming. As well as a rousing eco-conscious narrative, Wolfwalkers serves up distinctive, eye-catching animation — as its first teaser trailer makes plain. Expect earthy, natural colours, with greens, browns, oranges and yellows dancing across the screen. Expect a line-heavy animation style, too, which is almost reminiscent of woodblock prints. None of the above should come as a surprise given the film's roster of talent — including Tomm Moore, director of Oscar-nominated and equally stunning duo The Secret of Kells and Song of the Sea. He co-directs with a veteran of both movies, with Ross Stewart working as the art director of the former and a concept artist on the latter. Wolfwalkers is also the latest feature produced by the Kilkenny-based Cartoon Saloon, which also has the similarly Academy Award-nominated The Breadwinner on its resume. After premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival this month, just when Wolfwalkers will hit Apple TV+ is yet to be revealed, other than it'll drop sometime later in 2020. And, obviously, whether Game of Thrones star Bean will survive in his latest role is something that you'll only find out by watching. Check out the teaser trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gj72cf3x5KM&feature=youtu.be Wolfwalkers is set to hit Apple TV+ sometime later in 2020 — we'll update you with an exact release date when one is announced.
If there's been a big, White Night-shaped hole in your social calendar since the famed Melbourne after-hours fiesta wrapped up its last edition in February 2018, you'll be happy to know it's making a return this August. Just be prepared for a very different experience, as the immersive festival makes some serious changes to its programming and farewells part of the late-night fun. As well as making the move from summer to the deep of winter, White Night Reimagined has swapped its previous one-night format for an expanded three-night affair. Interestingly, it's also scrapped the all-nighter aspect in the process. Instead of the usual 7pm–7am program, which has been in place since the festival's inaugural 2013 edition, White Night is this year running from 7pm until midnight on Thursday, August 22, and again on Friday, August 23, followed by a 7pm until 2am session on Saturday, August 24. The new curfew means punters will no longer get to experience what some might argue is one of White Night's biggest pulls — the adventure of roaming around town soaking up art and installations, right through until the wee hours. Although, frosty August probably isn't the best time of year for pre-sunrise wanderings, anyway. The new-format event has also expanded in scope, held across three key precincts with each boasting its own distinct theme. Treasury Gardens will take the form of the 'Sensory Realm', showcasing dazzling projections, lighting and audio installations, and interactive artworks inspired by the five senses. Here, you'll find British artist Michael Pinsky's immersive Pollution Pods, which represented the different environments of global cities; a musical and calming SongCloud; a colourful light and audiovisual installation called Cluster; as well as a giant floating Cocoon made from 1000 lights tied together by ropes. Carlton Gardens will be transformed into the mystical 'Spiritual Realm', featuring a huge ten-metre lion puppet by Melbourne artist Joe Blanck, along with illuminations sharing the stories of Indigenous Australia. And the 'Physical Realm' descends on Birrarung Marr, showcasing the Aussie debut of internationally acclaimed street theatre performance Globe, from a troupe of 41 acrobats, aerialists, singers and actors. Other famed Melbourne spots coming to the party include the Melbourne Museum, the National Gallery of Victoria and the State Library Victoria, all hosting their own programs of art, food and music. The rest of White Night Reimagined's extended program, including the music component, is set to be revealed in the coming weeks. Starting from 2020, White Night will also form part of a new and bigger winter festival, in conjunction with the Melbourne International Arts Festival (MIAF).
Take me with you, indeed: whether you're a Prince fan, a Purple Rain obsessive or both, you can now follow in the musician and the film's footsteps by sleeping in the house from the iconic movie. This is the actual abode from the inimitable flick, newly restored and decked out in purple aplenty. You'll slumber in The Kid's bedroom, hear rare Prince tracks, and go crazy with love for the picture and the late, great artist behind it, of course. Back in May, Airbnb announced that it was doing things a little differently in 2024 when it comes to its pop culture-themed stays. The accommodation platform is no stranger to giving travellers once-in-a-lifetime vacation options — see: Shrek's swamp, Barbie's Malibu DreamHouse, the Ted Lasso pub, the Moulin Rouge! windmill and Hobbiton, to name just a few — which it previously announced at random, with no advance warning. Now, however, it has created the Airbnb Icons category, grouping them all together. The company also revealed at the time that Prince's Purple Rain mansion was one of the many spots on the way. As a result, you might've heard about this Minneapolis listing before — but it's only about to become available now. Will you find out what it sounds like when doves cry if you nab a one-night stay here? You'll need to try to score a reservation between 11pm AEST on Wednesday, October 2–4.59pm AEST on Monday, October 7, 2024 for a stay between Saturday, October 26–Saturday, December 14, 2024. There's 25 stays on offer, each for up to four guest at a time. The booking isn't free, but only costs $7 per person because that was Prince's favourite number. That price only covers the stay itself. To get there and back, you'll be paying separately and organising your travel yourself. And your hosts, because Airbnb always gets someone pivotal involved? For this listing, it's Wendy and Lisa — aka of Wendy Melvoin and Lisa Coleman — who were part of Prince's band The Revolution. "We were lucky enough to be a part of the music scene in Minneapolis during such a pivotal era for rock music, playing with Prince in one of the most successful bands of our generation and starring alongside him in the Purple Rain film," said Wendy and Lisa. "The Purple Rain house stands as a tribute to our dear friend Prince, the timeless character he brought to life and the lasting impact he continues to have. We hope the space gives fans a glimpse into the eclectic world Prince created, and visitors walk away feeling a little bit closer to him as an artist and person." This is what it looks like: guests can get excited about staying in a spot with purple velvet wallpaper; a spa with a claw-foot bath and stained-glass windows (and purple robes, naturally) that's decorated to resemble the 'When Doves Cry' music video; and a music lounge with a piano, drums and guitar, plus instructions on how to play the chorus to 'Purple Rain' with pre-recorded vocals from The Kid. There's also a closet filled with Prince outfits, all behind glass — and more 80s-inspired threads, not worn by the man himself, that you can pop on. When it's time for bed, you will indeed feel like you've stepped into Purple Rain (although the personal tape collection with one of Prince's demo recordings mixes the movie with reality). Still on tunes, there's a vintage 80s stereo downstairs featuring songs that inspired The Kid — and you can listen to a personal commentary by scanning QR codes. You can also consider this a Prince scavenger hunt, in a way, thanks to a secret space that you need to find. It's filled with treasures — and you'll want to be paying attention to the fake vinyl album. In the past, Airbnb has also featured the Bluey house, the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine, The Godfather mansion, the South Korean estate where BTS filmed In the Soop, the Sanderson sisters' Hocus Pocus cottage, the Paris theatre that inspired The Phantom of the Opera and a Christina Aguilera-hosted two-night Las Vegas stay. Its Airbnb Icons has also made sleeping at the Up house, Inside Out 2's headquarters, the X-Mansion from X-Men '97 and the Ferrari Museum a reality, as well as stays hosted by Doja Cat, Bollywood star Janhvi Kapoor and Kevin Hart. For more information about the Purple Rain house on Airbnb, or to book from 11pm AEST on Wednesday, October 2–4.59pm AEST on Monday, October 7, 2024 for a stay between Saturday, October 26–Saturday, December 14, 2024, head to the Airbnb website. Images: Eric Ogden. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
Mad Nanna are the kind of band you probably wouldn’t put past leaving the iron on while ducking to Woolies. Or calling you by your fat cousin’s name for the entire Christmas lunch. Or even putting a teaspoon of salt in your cup of tea. They’re wildly sporadic, endearingly sloppy, but you can’t not love them for being just that bit weird. Now, with a bundle of LP's, dozens upon dozens of gigs, and some super new songs under their belts, Mad Nanna are travelling up north to say hello to their friendly Queensland fans. Brisbane’s totally under-appreciated, super cheap, and geographic-dream, Beetle Bar, will be hosting these fellas for a night of grungy head nods, the occasional off beat and a collection of scene-spinners that aren’t too cool for you yet, but soon will be. Brisbane’s own Scraps, Scrabble, Blank Realm – hailed by The Guardian as one of Australia’s best live bands, and spinsters Gravel Samwidge will also be adding their own dash of special something to this night of psychedelic fusion meets the downright dirt. Based on the bands, line up and venue, this gig is probably going to get a little wild – wear closed in shoes and be sure to take a sweater.
In a sultry city such as Brisbane, a place where winter weather lasts for approximately a week each year, letting everyone cool down in public pools for less than the cost of a coffee — less than the cost of almost everything — was always going to be a hit. Accordingly, after its first-ever run from December 2023–February 2024, Brisbane City Council's $2 Summer Dips scheme might return at the end of 2024. Announced in June 2023, and running for the entire three months of summer, $2 Summer Dips slashed entry fee at all 22 of Brisbane City Council's public pools around the River City. During its debut season, more than 660,000 Brisbanites took advantage of it, with over 88,000 of those folks heading to Newmarket's pool alone — increasing its summer attendance by 85 percent from 2022–23. [caption id="attachment_904760" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] Love swimming laps? Prefer a leisurely soak as your favourite way to cool down? Does nothing could say summer to you quite like hanging out poolside? Whichever category fits, you may be able to live the pool life for cheap at Brisbane City Council's public venues — again — between Sunday, December 1, 2024–Friday, February 28, 2025. And yes, having a splash will only cost you $2, with that discounted price applying to everyone, adults and kids alike. The saving drops the adult entry price from $6.40 to $2. The reduced rate covers every single day across the period, too, which includes all of the Christmas and New Year public holidays. [caption id="attachment_741063" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cieran Murphy[/caption] The return of the scheme has been promised by Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner as part of Brisbane's local government elections. So, it may depend on who wins — or it could be the kind of initiative that returns no matter who emerges victorious. There's no other catches — including no limit on how many times you can take advantage of the deal. Fancy going for a swim at your local every day during summer? Working your way around Brisbane's public pools, diving into a different one daily? Both are options. Across the summer of 2023–24, Jindalee, Carole Park and the Emily Seebohm Aquatic Centre also saw a doubling of attendance rates — and entry numbers across the full 22 overall doubled in the month of December alone. [caption id="attachment_904761" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] Brisbane City Council's public pools include Centenary Pool, Spring Hill Baths and the Valley Pool, plus Musgrave Park Swimming Centre, the Colmslie Aquatic Centre in Morningside, Ithaca Pool in Paddington, Dunlop Park Memorial Swimming Pool in Corinda and Hibiscus Sports Complex Pool in Upper Mount Gravatt. Chermside Pool, Bellbowrie Pool and Manly Pool are all covered as well, as are Yeronga Park Memorial Swimming Pool, Mt Gravatt East Swimming Pool and Sandgate Aquatic Centre — and more. [caption id="attachment_621822" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council[/caption] [caption id="attachment_777650" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] [caption id="attachment_777649" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kgbo via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] [caption id="attachment_777652" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] If Brisbane City Council's $2 Summer Dips program returns, it will run from Sunday, December 1, 2024–Friday, February 28, 2025. To find your closest public pool, head to the council website. Check out our list of the best outdoor swimming pools in Brisbane for 2024. Top image: Cieran Murphy.
