If there's one thing Brisbanites like, it's watching Studio Ghibli films in a cinema. In fact, over the last few years, a whole heap of cinemas around town have hosted their own celebrates dedicated to the Japanese animation house. The Elizabeth Picture Theatre joined in earlier this year, and it has been such a hit that the venue is bringing the film festival back for a second season. Screening twice a week throughout June until the beginning of September — on Thursday evenings at 6.30pm and Sunday afternoons at 4pm, to be specific — fans can expect the rest of Studio Ghibli's gorgeous features to get a run. Yes, you should be jumping for joy at the chance to see Spirited Away this time, and to feel like you've been transported somewhere magical across the rest of the program. Catch The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, When Marnie Was There, Only Yesterday and Laputa: Castle in the Sky — plus Princess Mononoke, Whisper of the Heart and Pom Poko. Also getting another run are last season's Kiki's Delivery Service, My Neighbour Totoro and Grave of the Fireflies, due to popular demand. If you've missed these films in their limited cinema runs or fest appearances in the past, consider this your chance to catch up. At only $12 per session, make like a moving castle and mosey your way over there. Updated July 17.
Clear your window sills, dust off your shelves, and make some space in the various nooks and crannies scattered throughout your house. Trust us — after a trip to Botanicals by Bella's Botanical Extravaganza on Saturday, June 10, you're going to need more than a few places to pop more than a few plants. A once-a-year sale, the one-day event will be filled with rare and collectible indoor greenery — including succulents — which is why it's always popular. Last year, more than a 1000 people turned up. Accordingly, while entry is free, you'll need to register online if you want to mosey along. With the extravaganza kicking off at 10am, tickets are available for each one-hour window until 2pm. Once you're there, you can browse and buy a large range of plant life, whether you need begonias, a ficus or some ivy. Plus, everyone who walks through the door will get a goodie bag with, well, goodies — and some gardening supplies to help you get on your merry planting way.
If you're a fan of films both new and old, then you've probably experienced an increasingly common problem: scrolling through your streaming platform of choice and being underwhelmed by its rather small retro selection. Or, maybe you've just worn out your Back to the Future or Ferris Bueller's Day Off DVDs. Or perhaps you've always wanted to see The Princess Bride or Pretty in Pink, but have been waiting until you could catch them in a cinema. Whichever category you fall into, Dendy Coorparoo's new Cult Classics programs is here to help every Monday, with the season running from June 4 to August 27. Each week, the eastside cinema will serve up a new blast from the past — at 10.30am, in case you have the day off, and at 6.30pm too, for those who've been working. Tickets cost $8 for members and $10 for everyone else, and the lineup is stacked full of old faves. Gremlins and The NeverEnding Story are on the bill for a dose of childhood nostalgia, while Full Metal Jacket and Platoon will take you into the depths of war. And, you won't just get the chance to revisit Marty McFly's first time-travelling escapades, but the whole trilogy.
Somewhere in your house, there's a spot that's screaming out for a burst of greenery. And sure, you could go to one of the city's many nurseries and plant sales to pick something up — or you could try your hand at making something yourself. Don't know where to start? Don't worry. West Village's kokedama workshops have you covered. Taking place on Saturday, June 16 and Sunday, June 17, the two-hour sessions will teach you the art of making Japanese moss balls — a style of gardening that takes its cues from bonsai. Japanese florist Mikiko will step you through the process, helping you to create not one but two kokedama of your own to take home with you: one sitting and one hanging. For your $95 ticket, you'll also receive a glass of Champagne on arrival, which is certain to get your creative juices flowing.
Forget Sizzler. The days of devouring as much as you can under the all-you-can-eat chain's green ceilings might've been and gone across most of Brisbane, but there are still plenty of places to get a bottomless feast in this city. And if it's an unlimited stash of wings and loaded fries that you're after, then The American Diner Co. at Enoggera has you covered on a Monday evening. On Monday, July 9, 16 and 23, head by from 5pm to tuck into poultry pieces and topping-smothered hot chips, with the servings keeping on coming for an hour. Sure, it's not the healthiest dinner, but it might be one of the tastiest. Any all-you-can-eat regular will know that these kind of deals always have a few conditions. Here, as well as the 60-minute time limit, the unlimited spread will set you back $20 plus a drink purchase. Finally, everyone sitting at your table has to take part — but it really shouldn't be hard convincing your friends to go along. Image: The American Diner Co.
Why drink at one watering hole, when you can head to two, three, six or more? That's always been the motivation behind everyone's favourite boozy journey, aka a pub crawl. And, it's the exact same type of thinking behind the Urban Wine Walk. Taking another wander around Brisbane, it's the bar-hopping excuse every vino lover needs — if you need an excuse, that is. From midday until 4pm on Saturday, September 1, you'll saunter around South Brisbane, the CBD and Fortitude Valley — and between the likes of Happy Boy, Wandering Cooks, Cloudland, The Fox, Gerard's Bar, Bloodhound Bar and more — sampling wines and having a mighty fine time. As for the tipples, they'll be taken care of by Queensland's Gerler, South Australia's Unico Zela, Western Australia's Hither & Yon and others. Tickets cost $64 including booking fee, and places are limited. This moving cellar door will not only serve up wine tastings, but also your own tasting glass — plus a voucher for another beverage, and a guide to help you plan your mosey between bars.
It's game, set and match at West End's Covent Garden on Sunday, July 15, thanks to a shindig that wouldn't be out of place at both the suburb's and venue's London namesakes. Think gin, high tea and pretending you care about tennis — or genuinely caring about it, if you do — at the bar's Wimbledon Garden Party. With balls flying over in the UK, the Boundary Street hangout is celebrating the occasion in its usual way: with plenty of English juniper spirits. Ableforth's Bathtub Gin, Edgerton Pink Gin, Martin Millers London Dry and The Botanist are just some of the brands you can sip over a three-hour period from 3pm, plus old faithfuls like Bombay Sapphire, Hendricks and Tanqueray, of course. Don your best tennis attire — or something white, at least — to take part, with tickets costing $79 for an afternoon's worth of drinking. Plus, you'll also be able to dip strawberries in the party's unlimited chocolate fountain.
Brisbane does pretty well in the craft brew stakes, but come GABS time, it's difficult not to get a little envious of our pals down south. For those who haven't heard of Melbourne and Sydney's boozy annual celebration, we're talking about the Great Australian Beer SpecTAPular. It isn't coming up north, but Bloodhound Bar is serving the next best thing. If this sounds familiar, that's because the Brunswick Street bar has already treated Brissie residents to a highlights package earlier this year — and they're back with a two-day, weekend-long second effort. Prepare to visit the GABS 2018 Beer Showcase once again across Saturday, July 14 and Sunday, July 15. A selection of beverages will be on offer, and they're really not the kind of brews you'll get to sip every day. In fact, this year, more than 160 unique beers were made just for the fest. From that huge array, you'll be able to sample beverages that sound like they were whipped up in a dream. Given some of the ingredients and flavours on offer, perhaps that's where the ideas behind them came from. Rocks Brewing's Tea Wit Princess Jasmine uses, yep, jasmine tea, while White Lies Brewing's Choc Star combines chocolate and orange. And then there's Watts River Brewing's concoction that's freshly pressed Pinot Noir grapes, plus Murray's Brewing's gin-infused pale ale. There'll be more brews dripping off the keg, too, just ready to tempt your beer-loving tastebuds.
Call it a testing ground, call it a great place for on-stage experimentation, call it the future of entertainment — whichever one you choose, it'll probably be accurate. Fresh Blood Festival is focused on new talent, new ideas and the next generation of arts and stage performances. In short: even if you spend all of your spare time checking out new theatre, don't expect to see something here that you've seen before. Taking over Metro Arts from Thursday, July 12 to Saturday, July 14 and run by the venue's student-company-in-residence Vena Cava Productions, this fest is all about giving fledgling creatives the chance to show off their talents. The 2018 program will showcase 15 productions, and it's certainly big on variety. When you're not watching two people play solitaire, you'll be catching a musical about mental health or witnessing The Good Time Boys put on their latest sketch comedy skits. Or, in one of the festival's most intriguing inclusions, you'll explore old keepsakes — you know, the kinds of things that everyone has, such as photos from several hairstyles ago — and delve into the memories that go with them. That's what world premiere piece Within a Fleeting Moment is all about, and it promises more than just a dose of nostalgia.
Albion's Vieille Branche knows how to give people what they want: not only a fabulously appointed warehouse-slash-event space, but a Midwinter Market to warm up these frosty days. Browse, buy and forget that it's actually been somewhat cold during this latest patch of Brisbane winter on from 7.30am–2pm on Saturday, July 14. There'll be plenty of homewares, ceramics, cheese and more to stock up on, plus succulents, fashion, art, jewellery, tableware and textiles too. The stallholder lineup features everyone from Emile and Solange to Meta Design Co to Grace Candles — and if you've been to a Vieille Branche market before, it's a blend of both old and new sellers, with the event endeavouring to showcase the city's newest emerging designers and makers. Of course, you can showcase them as well by finding something to take home with you. Brighten up your house, pick up a nice gift — or, if nothing else, there's always cheese. Plus something to serve it on, cut it with and wear while you're eating it, too. Image: Vieille Branche.
Wander into Swill, and there's only one drink worth ordering — in more than 115 varieties. At this new gin joint in Bowen Hills, juniper spirits are the beverage of choice. And, on the last Thursday night of each monthly 28, the bar is getting almost academic about its favourite tipple. To be specific, it's welcoming fellow gin lovers to a regular Gin Club, showcasing different styles of gin and getting everyone talking. If there's one thing that everyone wants to study, it's this. No, there's no test at the end. Rather, drop by from 6pm for two hours of tastings, nibbles and a cocktail, all included in the $15 on-the-door entry price. A range of different tipples will be wetting your whistle, and you'll be an expert in all of them in no time. Contacting the bar in advance to book your spot is highly recommended. Updated November 21.
Osamah Sami has had an interesting life. Born in Iran to Iraqi parents, by the time he was a teenager he'd survived conflict and war, sold fireworks on the Iranian black market and run afoul of the country's religious police. Things didn't get any less complicated after his family emigrated to Australia, with Sami faking his Year 12 result so he could get into medicine, and later escaping an arranged marriage by literally running away on his wedding day. If that last part sounds familiar, it's because it was the plot of his recent film Ali's Wedding (one of our favourites of 2017). And we suspect it might come up in his latest project, a stage adaptation of his autobiographical novel Good Muslim Boy. On stage at QPAC's Cremorne Theatre from July 12 to August 4 in a Queensland Theatre production, the play chronicles Sami's extraordinary life as well as the struggles he faced trying to bring his father's body back to Australia after he died on a trip to Iran.
Every week over at its Gasworks store, Salt Meats Cheese serves up all-you-can-eat pizza. Yes, it's as delicious as it sounds. Now that the eatery has made the temporary jump over to the other side of the inner-city as part of the Salt Meats Cheese and Gelato Messina Laneway WV Pop-Up, it's serving up slices upon slices twice a week — and in West End, the Thursday night frenzy is all about vegan fare. If you're a vegan and you've been holding back, now's the time to get your bottomless pizza feast one night a week. Fancy as much pizza as you can handle, but without any animal products? Then mark every Thursday between July 5 and September 6 in your diary. From 5pm, SMC's West End laneway store will serve up unlimited vegan slices for $20. The only catch is that you'll have to buy a drink as well, but you can choose from both boozy and non-alcoholic options. And, for an extra $5, you can also opt for all-you-can-eat gluten-free vegan pizza as well. Finding decent slices that cater to dietary requirements is hard enough, let alone devouring as many as you feel like in one sitting, so expect this to be popular. Unsurprisingly, bookings are essential.
Maybe you really love Patrick Swayze. Maybe you just need some more terracotta or ceramics in your life. Maybe the idea of pottering around a clay-based showcase, finding pottery pieces and sinking a few pots at the bar is your idea of a great Saturday afternoon. Whichever category you fall into, coast on over to Clayschool's Winter Show. Browse, buy, sip beverages — it's the ultimate exhibition-slash-market. Indeed, while we're talking multi-tasking, Clayschool's students are hoping to show off their unique, handcrafted designs, and sell some as ace one-off wares. Christmas might be months away, but you can start planning already — or pick up something special for someone special, just because (including for yourself). Given that it's all taking place at Wandering Cooks from 1pm on Saturday, June 30, that means food and drinks will be part of the fun as well. East by Middle East, Wow Dumpling and Taste of Punjab will be in the kitchen whipping up their best eats, while the usual tipples will be available, of course.
Paniyiri has already been and gone for 2018, but it's not the only Brisbane festival celebrating all things Greek. Across the weekend of Saturday, June 23 and Sunday, June 24, Riverland is saying "opa!" to Greek food, drinks, music and dancing — and plate smashing. Specifically, you can expect to feast on Greek Street Kantina's gyros, souvlaki and grilled haloumi, as well as its chicken or lamb-loaded fries. And, you can expect to sip Mythos Hellenic lager, ouzo and cocktail jugs. Pair all of the above with a watery view, and it's the closest you'll come to soaking in the Mediterranean air without hopping on a plane. As for the Greek band, zorba dancers and broken crockery, that'll happen between 2–5pm each day. Greek Festival Weekend runs from midday until close on both days, however, with free entry.
Ever wanted to see your favourite bands kick a few goals, and help support a good cause at the same time? Since 1993, the Reclink Community Cup has been turning musos into footy players for an annual charity Aussie rules match, with the Melbourne game drawing more than 10,000 people and raising over $100,000 each year. Sydney's been going strong for years too, with the game finally coming to Brisbane in 2016 — and now it's back again for a third round. Come Sunday, July 29, the city's music community will descend upon Hickey Park in Stafford to put their sporting prowess to the test. Two teams will take to the field: The Rocking Horses, featuring players from an array of Brissie acts, and the Brisbane Lines, filled with a crew of journos, industry staff general music-related folks. Seja, Jodie from Flangipanis, and Ruby and George from Babaganouj and Velociraptor fall in the first camp this year, while senators Anthony Chisholm and Andrew Bartlett will line up alongside staff from 4ZZZ, the ABC, triple j and Rebel FM in the opposition team. Plus, the Community Cup isn't just about getting another dose of the live AFL action, as ace as the prospect of more footy is. Given that rock stars are involved, of course live music is part of the proceedings, with Mad Macka from the Cosmic Psychos, Requin, Marville and DJ Sad Dad on the bill. And, food-wise, expect stalls ready to fill your ravenous stomachs. Watching bands play both music and footy is hungry work, after all. Every dollar raised from ticketing goes towards Reclink's efforts to improve the lives of Queenslanders suffering from disability, homelessness, substance abuse and economic hardship through participation in sport and the arts. Yep, whoever emerges victorious from the game, a heap of deserving folks will be the real winners. Image: Rod Hunt. Updated July 23.
A new fish 'n' chippery has swum into Kangaroo Point, and it's bring a new series of seafood dinners with it. One Fish Two Fish is now home to Red Fish Blue Fish, because why not keep the Dr Seuss theme going? Red Fish Blue Fish welcomes well-known chefs into the Main Street eatery's kitchen, pairing them up and asking them to cook up a storm. Opposite One Fish Two Fish's own head chef Daniel Miletic, Philip Johnson is the latest culinary whiz whipping up a feast on Wednesday, June 26 — putting the skills that have made him such a hit at e'cco to good use. Specifically, Johnson's fishy meal will skew European, featuring a shared banquet menu across three courses, each with matching beverages. It all starts with a pink peach spritz. Next, there's spanner crab linguine and prawn ravioli, as accompanied by 2017 Jericho Wines Fiano. Then, attendees can tuck into a braised blue-eye trevalla, paired with 2017 Jo Landron Muscadet Sevre et Maine La Louvetrie. To top it all off, dessert comes in the form of banana tart with rum and raisin ice cream, plus a glass of Dutschke 'Old Codger' Tawny Port. Tickets cost $75 per person without drinks, or $120 with them, and the dinner kicks off at at 6.30pm.
Dive into a box of Lego, drink a few beers — it's the kidulting dream. Really, it's the best of both worlds, because getting older doesn't mean farewelling fun. While a dedicated brick bar popped up in Brisbane at the beginning of the year, that's not your only chance to build whatever your heart desires while knocking back tipples. Semi-Pro Brewing is also getting in on the action, hosting regular Bricks and Beers nights on the last Thursday of each month. From 6pm, you'll spend an hour working to a theme — and competing to construct the best Lego creation you possibly can. Three rounds will take place, each spanning around 30 minutes. If you've always wanted to make your mark in tiny plastic blocks, then go forth and do so. Prizes will be awarded for creativity in both categories, and drinks will be flowing. Entry is free, all Lego is supplied, so no need to raid anyone's toy box. But bring your wallet for beverages — and your doggo for company. Updated June 25.
"For never was there a story of more woe than this of Juliet and her Romeo," William Shakespeare wrote more than four centuries ago. All this time later, the Bard's words still hold up. The ultimate star-cross'd tale of romantic tragedy, Romeo and Juliet just keeps resonating with audiences — whether hitting the big screen with Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes in the 90s, or taking over La Boite between Saturday, May 25 and Saturday, June 14. If you've seen the former, you'll want to see the latter. This stage production is another reimagined affair, this time stripping back the narrative, removing some of the repetition and honing in on the core of the work. La Boite's Romeo and Juliet is also a collaboration with the theatre and the next generation of young actors studying at Queensland University of Technology. Watch these up-and-comers bring this drama to life in a streamlined version staged in the round. There'll be warring families, obviously. There'll be two teenagers trying to follow their hearts, too — and forget that their names are Montague and Capulet. And, there'll be the most memorable three-day love story in history, blossoming anew in Kelvin Grove. Image: Dylan Evans.
For its latest excuse to eat, drink and feel mighty fine, the Treasury Casino is throwing in an extra ingredient. Over one cheese and wine-filled evening, the CBD hotspot will be serving up the best dairy and vino that it can get its hands on — and a whole heap of seafood to go with it. Yep, between 5pm and 8pm on Friday, May 24, your tastebuds will think they've ventured to the depths of the ocean, thanks to a feast of seafood canapés. As for the wine, there'll be more than 30 drops on offer from Australia, New Zealand and beyond. The tastiness takes place in the Treasury's courtyard, so expect a starry backdrop and some live music as well. And if you're feeling extra peckish, there'll be antipasto, charcuterie, assorted dips and artisan breads too — or, you could just dive deep into as much cheese as you can. Sip and sample away for three hours for $69 per person.
Last Christmas, VEND Marketplace helped you deck your halls with all types of greenery — and it isn't stopping there. The northside spot has added a new space dedicated to plants, and it's hosting a huge sale. Welcome to the Greenhouse, as the new area is aptly known. While it has been open, operating and making gardeners' dreams come true since February, you'll want to drop by from 8am on either Saturday, May 11 or Sunday, May 12. That's when the 250-square-metre indoor garden will be slinging its green babies at a special two-day event — and yes, there'll be about succulents, cacti, indoor plants, hanging plants, outdoor plants, pots and more. Plenty of plants will be on sale for less than $15, and there'll also be juice, smoothies, tea, coffee, beer and wine to drink, plus food trucks serving up street eats. Plus, if you can find a hidden jungle animal, you'll nab yourself a free piece of greenery. And, if you're stumped for Mother's Day gifts, the timing couldn't be more perfect.
When that slice of inner-city delights known as Teneriffe was officially named a suburb back in 2010, locals threw a party to celebrate. Ten years on and the shindig is still going strong — you know it as the Teneriffe Festival. For its 2019 outing, the event will boast another wide-ranging lineup, aka the kind of bill previous attendees have come to expect. Taking place from 10am–9pm on Saturday, July 6, think music, food, markets and fun, all helping locals and visitors alike make the most of the bustling locale. Chilled riverside hangouts are just the beginning. Indeed, whether you're keen on feasting, shopping, drinking or tapping your toes, you'll find it here. More than 50,000 people usually attend, so you'll also find plenty of company. Sample the area's bars and restaurants, find a feast of cheese, champagne and oysters, then work off all that food and booze by walking around an array bespoke market stalls. A packed program of local tunes is always on the agenda as well. Image: Teneriffe Festival.
Cinco de Mayo is the Mexican annual celebration, commemorating Mexican culture and heritage. Although a relatively minor holiday in Mexico (compared with el Día de los Muertos), it has become a huge holiday in the US — and Australia has cottoned-on to the festive day, too. To celebrate, nationwide Mexican chain, Guzman y Gomez, is offering up $5 burritos and bowls all day on Sunday, May 5. Taking place in-store at all Guzman y Gomez stores around Australia, the $5 promotion will be limited to either two burritos, breakfast burritos, mini burritos or burrito bowls per person, per visit. Historically, the holiday commemorates the Mexican army's victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. But now Cinco de Mayo has grown into a day that celebrates many facets of Mexican culture, particularly the country's culinary feats. Guzman y Gomez has 40 Queensland locations, to find your closest, head to the website.
Among the English language's best phrases, 'all you can eat' ranks up there with the best of them. It'd sound great in any language, of course, and you might hear it in German over the weekend of Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31 — aka 'so viel du essen kannst'. Specifically, you might hear either version at Munich Brauhaus, The Bavarian and the Bavarian Beerhaus, which are all offering an appropriate stuff-your-face deal. For a two-hour sitting, you can tuck into as many schnitzels as you can stomach. Served on a platter, there are three varieties on offer: the uber schnitzel, which is decked out with rocket, semi-dried tomato and parmesan; the jager schnitzel, as topped with wild mushroom ragu; and the good ol' parmigiana, which obviously comes with melted mozzarella, tomato sauce and ham. Talk about good schnitt. The special costs $35 per person, also includes unlimited mashed potato and potato salad — yep, both hot and cold spuds — and is available for bookings of at least two people. You do need to book, however, so gather the gang, get planning, and make a date with a German beer house in Bowen Hills, South Bank, Chermside or on Eagle Street.
So, you're the eager kind of bastard (not the Snow type, mind you) who likes to throw spoilers in the face of your lessers? Lucky for you, the Game of Thrones edition of Man vs Bear trivia is here, so you'll be able to use that smug mouth to win. Or die. Lovers of the books and returning TV series should make a burger date with Fritzenberger, with GoT trivia nights happening at the Petrie Terrace bar and eatery on Thursday, April 4 and then over at Wilston on Friday, April 5. Costume is not mandatory, but that's part of the fun. White walkers, maesters, red priests, naked extras and dung-faced peasants will also most likely be in abundance, so if you really want to impress you'll need to think outside the boxset (someone had better turn up as the animated map of the opening credits, is what we're saying here). Food and drink will be available for purchase, and a host of prizes are on offer. If you're keener than a Stark heading back to Winterfell, team registration via the Man vs Bear website is necessary. And don't delay — it's winter soon.
It has been more than a year since word spread about Brisbane's next new picture palace, with the old Red Hill Skate Arena slated to become the city's latest Five Star Cinemas. The chain is run by the Sourris brothers, and already boasts New Farm Cinemas and the Elizabeth Picture Theatre — and it's looking to add a third Brissie location. The path to getting the go-ahead hasn't been smooth, as the prospective new site's website details. But if you've been past Enogerra Terrace lately, you've probably noticed that the boarded-up location is undergoing a makeover. If you'd like to stop by and check out the space in its current guise, here's your chance. From 10am–12pm on Sunday, March 31, the site will be open to the public for the Red Hill Skate Arena Open Day. You'll tour the place as it presently stands, tuck into a sausage sizzle, eat popcorn, drink coffee, play games, and hear from Peter Sourris about the space's future. Probably best not to bring your skates, though.
Among the English language's best phrases, 'all you can eat' ranks up there with the best of them. It'd sound great in any language, of course, and you might hear it in German on Monday, May 6 — aka 'so viel du essen kannst'. Specifically, you might hear either version at Munich Brauhaus, which is offering an appropriate stuff-your-face deal as part of its first birthday shenanigans. For a two-hour sitting, you can tuck into as many schnitzels as you can stomach. Served on a platter, there are three varieties on offer: the uber schnitzel, which is decked out with rocket, semi-dried tomato and parmesan; the jager schnitzel, as topped with wild mushroom ragu; and the good ol' parmigiana, which obviously comes with melted mozzarella, tomato sauce and ham. Talk about good schnitt. The special costs $35 per person, also includes unlimited mashed potato and potato salad — yep, both hot and cold spuds — and is available for bookings of at least two people. You do need to book, however, so gather the gang, get planning, and make a date with a German beer house in South Bank.
The 90s were great. That shouldn't be a controversial opinion. Whether you lived through them or have spent the last couple of decades wishing you did — aka binging on 90s pop culture — this late-night shindig at The Foundry will indulge your retro urges. Drinks, tunes, fashion: expect all of the above at the No Scrubs: 90s and Early 00s party from 11pm on Saturday, May 18. Of course, it's up to you to make sure the clothing side of thing is covered, and to get into the spirit of the party. If you want to use Mariah Carey as a style icon, it'd be fitting. Expect to unleash your inner Spice Girl and Backstreet Boy too. TLC, Destiny's Child, Savage Garden, Usher, Blink-182, No Doubt — we'd keep listing artists, but you all know what you're getting yourselves into. Tickets are $12.25 online, with the fun running through until 3am
From Monday through until Saturday, each and every week, the aroma of freshly made coffee wafts from Botero House. Come Wednesday, April 10, we expect that it'll smell a little stronger. Just for this specific date, the CBD cafe will be serving up free brews — so expect its baristas to be busy. The free coffee is in honour of Botero's anniversary, which is as good a reason as any to share the hot caffeinated beverages around. Unsurprisingly, there is a caveat: just one regular coffee per person. Still any free coffee is better than no free coffee, especially when you're on your way to work, craving your morning hit and not really feeling like you're awake just yet. You'll also be able to try out Botero's new menu, although that part isn't free. It will be tasty, however. And if you're an early bird, good news — the Adelaide Street cafe opens at 6.15am on weekdays.
No one really knows when alcohol-loving humans first started mixing their booze with other ingredients, but we do know when they first started referring to the resulting concoctions as cocktails. It was in 1806, so more than 200 years ago. There's some food for thought next time you mix up or knock back a drink — or for when you're making the most of Jade Buddha's upcoming cocktail markets. What's a cocktail market? A chance to try plenty of different types, all in sample-sized tastes so you really can wet your lips with more than a few. The event will serve up plenty of classics and you can sip them, all from 6–8pm on Saturday, April 20. While entry to the riverside bar is free, $25 will get you ten cocktail tickets, plus access to a selection of matching canapes. And it's worth remembering the golden rule of cocktails: they always taste better when you're drinking them with other people, so gather the gang. Images: Jade Buddha.
Little Valley, Fortitude Valley's late-night, Chinese-influenced eatery, already boasts ex-Rick Shores head chef Jake Pregnell in its kitchen. As part of its new culinary series, it's also bringing in some additional cooking firepower. Collab is just what it sounds like — a chance to welcome guest chefs into the fold for a one-night, multi-course feast — and it's getting the series started with current Rick Shores head honcho James Brady. Yes, Burleigh Heads' finest is making his way up to Brisbane on Tuesday, May 16, teaming up with Pregnell for four courses of deliciousness (including canapes) and bringing the fruits of his recent five-country trip from Asia with him. It'll be the first time that the duo has worked together, and they have quite the menu on offer — think roasted Moreton Bay bugs, suckling pig porchetta, pickled and smoked oysters, and blood mousse with pork crackling. Two sittings are available, at 6pm and 8pm, and two packages are on the cards as well. You can tuck into the feast for $88 a head, or pair it all with four glasses of matched Latta Vino wines for $132 per person. Bookings are essential by contacting the venue. Image: Adam Hunter.
We've known for a while that the Wynnum-Manly area is brimming with the ocean's finest bounty. In fact, we've even suggested going on a fish and chip crawl there. Who doesn't want to mosey between coastal greasy spoons and eat seafood by the seashore at every one of them? Well, the fine folks in the city's east have gone one better: they've made a whole day of fun out of the bayside's fondness for bugs, crabs, prawns, oysters, scallops and plenty of kinds of fish. That'd be the Wynnum Manly Seafood Festival, a community seafood event that'll take over George Clayton Park overlooking the iconic Wynnum jetty on Monday, May 6. A similar fest back in 2016 attracted more than 15,000 people, so attendees could have a heap of fish-loving company. This time around, there'll be seafood stalls, a licensed bar, live music and activities for kids. And eating. So much eating. Arrive hungry and hankering for an ocean-fuelled feast, obviously.
With the return of Finders Keepers market in June, so too comes the return of our inner art and design guru. It pulls us towards eye-catching prints, impeccably designed ceramics and irresistibly quirky earrings — all of which we might not necessarily need, but certainly can't seem to live without. Finders Keepers is bringing back its high-quality collection of stalls to Brisbane across June 21–23, with a few exciting additions and a continued focus around independent and up-and-coming artisans. Art and design run the show at Finders Keepers, so expect to see returning stalls Nerida Hansen Print and Textiles, which sells vibrant textiles and fabrics featuring designs by local artists, and a variety of artwork, homewares and accessories brought to life by Clare Ritchie. There's also a healthy addition of wellbeing and beauty products like Naturally Millie Ma, which carries products based on Tasmanian-sourced ingredients — from pure Tasmanian olive oil soaps to men's grooming products. Meanwhile, new stalls worth stopping by include fashion label and Finders Keepers Brisbane Indigenous Program recipient Life Apparel Co, fine art photographer Emily O'Brien and Brisbane-based ceramics brand Paxxy&Flora. To keep you well-fuelled for your shopping expedition, there'll also be a fair share of food stalls. The Abbiocco Food Truck will be dishing out Italian-style street food — or you can opt for a burger and fries at the Surf Burger stall. If you're gluten-free or vegan, you're in luck — Happy Soul Bowl has healthy, savoury options, while Gfreedonuts can fulfil a sugar craving with Nutella, salty caramel, custard and raspberry jam doughnuts. Needless to say, seek and you will find. If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by choices you can take a look at the Finders Keepers online directory for a comprehensive look at the stalls. Finders Keepers Autumn/Winter Brisbane will run from Friday, June 21–Sunday, June 23. The market will be open from 12pm–9pm on Friday, 9am–5pm on Saturday and 9am–5pm on Sunday. Entry is $5 and tickets are valid for all three days. Images: Samee Lapham.
Start your long weekend with an extra spring in your step — and an extra-special cup of coffee. Every year when Good Friday rolls around, Bunker Coffee dedicates the day to damn good caffeinated brews, and 2019 is no different. Well, it is different in one significant way. This year, the jolt-inducing beverages will be flowing at Bessa Coffee on Little Cribb Street instead. From 7am on Friday, April 19, the fellow Milton hangout will be whipping up a black coffee menu that'll have you buzzed until Easter. (Don't worry, cuppas will be available in different sizes, so you will be able to sleep — and try them all.) On the Black Coffee Friday lineup is brews by Wood & Co, Five Senses, Sample and Small Batch, as well as coffee beer and a ping pong competition. As for a soundtrack, that'll come courtesy of The Beau Jorgenson Trio from 8am–11am. Who said public holidays were for sleeping in?
Sneaker fiends, it's time to make some space in your wardrobe. Well, some more space if we're being completely honest. You've probably stuffed every possible spare nook and cranny with your overflowing collection of kicks, but here's hoping there's room for a few extra shoes — because you probably won't leave Brisbane's new sneaker showcase empty-handed. If you're wondering just how seriously It's More Than Just Sneakers takes its subject, the answer is right there in the name. If you're wondering what's in store, picture a day filled with oh-so-many runners to browse, buy and ogle. There'll also be other sneaker-related merchandise to tempt your wallet, plus DJs spinning tunes. It all goes down from 11am–3pm on Saturday, August 24 at Cupo on McLachlan Street in Fortitude Valley, and entry costs $5. If you buy online in advance, you'll also score three raffle tickets — which could be your key to even more sneaker goodness.
When you're making shapes to a live set at the Woodford Folk Festival you're probably not thinking about what comes next. No, we don't mean the reality that is your post-fest life. We're talking about the impact of so many friendly revellers upon the event's luscious natural setting. Of course, the folks behind the annual event always have that on their mind. In fact, they've crafted a yearly pilgrimage to help redress the damage the festival does to the environment. It started as a tree-planting working bee back in 1997, and has evolved into something even bigger. Think talks, presentations and performances, as well as daily planting and weeding activities. Between Friday, May 3 and Sunday, May 5, 2019's The Planting includes conversations about everything from activism and astrophysics to cold brews and food harvests— and yes, that's just the beginning of a lineup that features Archie Roach both singing and chatting. Learning more about weaving baskets, spotting spiders, making kimchi and cooking with beer are also on the very eclectic agenda, as are wildlife-focused bushwalks, a host of culinary cook-ups (gourmet jaffle making, anyone?), a craft beer appreciation class and more than a few meditation sessions. Music-wise, Caravan Sun, Ash Bell and Sara Tindley, Manran and Totally Gourdgeous are among those on the bill, as is the unique domestic entertainment served up by The Ironing Maidens. And, by camping out and doing your part to give back to the place and space that hosts such a fantastic cultural event, you're not only making sure you can see in the new year there in the future, but that generations to come will be able to too. Image: The Planting.
If there's one thing that Walter's Steakhouse and Bar isn't short on, it's wine. That's not the only thing the Alice Street venue boasts in abundance, but you won't go thirsty here. Still, maybe you've tasted your way through all of the usual vinos and you're keen for something different — a new drop, a rare release, a unique style or the kind of tipple that has (or deserves) a cult following. Every Tuesday from 5pm, Walter's has just the answer, and it's called The Limited. Whether you're dropping by for a post-work glass or settling in for dinner later, the CBD spot hosts a weekly cellar door that'll allow you to sip and sample new wines. Even better — the range changes every week, so you can expand your wine horizons on a regular basis. Basket Range, Bruno Rocca, Journey Wines and Michael Hall Wines are just some of the brands that've been thrust into the Walter's spotlight previously. Obviously, there's plenty more where they came from. Image: Walter's Steakhouse and Bar.
Ever since El Camino Cantina arrived in town, the eatery's little patch of Bowen Hills has basically become a constant party. When a place boasts eight slushie machines pumping out frozen margaritas, that's completely understandable. When it serves up cheap tacos every week, well, who doesn't want to keep on celebrating? On Sunday, March 24, the Tex-Mex joint is upping the ante at its King Street digs — and this time, it's slinging free bites and pouring tequila. Drop by by from 4pm to nab two free tacos, sip a margarita on arrival and taste a few new Jose Cuervo cocktails. Then, hit the dance floor to make some shapes. To head along to this afternoon party, you will need to join El Camino Cantina's Amigos club; however that's free as well. There'll also be a giant piñata waiting for you to take a swing, plus cocktails to wet your whistle.
For two days each May, most of Brisbane heads to Musgrave Park to pretend they're in the Mediterranean. Yes, it's Paniyiri time again, with the city's massive Greek festival taking over West End with quite the array of food, drink, partying and more. There's a reason that more than two million people have gone along over the past four decades. In the event's massive 43rd year on Saturday, May 18 and Sunday, May 19, expect the usual array of Greek revelry — grapes to stomp, coffee to sip and plates to smash, plus TV stars to rub shoulders with and cooking demonstrations to watch, too. And, it wouldn't be Paniyiri without everyone's favourite entertaining displays. If dancing is more your style, watch Greek Dancing with the Stars or catch the Hellenic dancers. If devouring as much as you can is your idea of fun, take part in the festival's regular food contests. Can you eat more olives or honey puffs than anyone else? Here's your chance to find out. Because you're never too old to try new things, last year's Paniyiri introduced a Santorini lounge bar, designed to make you think you're thousands of kilometres away — so here's hoping it makes a return. Either way, there'll be more than 30 authentic Greek food stalls, plus art displays, traditional and modern music, and fun extending over to the Greek Club. Tickets are on sale now, with both one-day ($12) and weekend-long ($20) options on offer. And, as always, there'll be an abundance of haloumi, calamari and dolmades as well. Arrive hungry.
A new fish 'n' chippery has sum into Kangaroo Point, and it's bring a new series of seafood dinners with it. One Fish Two Fish is now home to Red Fish Blue Fish, because why not keep the Dr Seuss theme going? Red Fish Blue Fish will welcome well-known chefs into the Main Street eatery's kitchen, pairing them up and asking them to cook up a storm. Opposite One Fish Two Fish's own head chef Daniel Miletic, Ben Williamson will be responsible for the first feast on Wednesday, April 10 — putting the skills that made him such a hit at Gerard's Bistro, where he's just finished up, to good use. Specifically, Williamson's fishy meal will feature a shared banquet menu across three courses, each with matching beverages. It all starts with an apple pie old fashioned. Next, there's red mullet, mackerel and confit fish with toast, as accompanied by 2017 Spinifex Ugni Blanc. Then, attendees can tuck into a New Orleans-style crawfish boil with yabbies, corn smoked butter, Carolina corn bread, shrimp gritz and collard greens, paired with 2014 Verget Macon Bussieres Vignes de Montbrison. To top it all off, dessert comes in the form of pecan pie ice cream with moonshine sauce, plus a glass of 1987 Toro Albala Don PX Gran Reserva. Tickets cost $89 per person, and the dinner kicks off at at 6.45pm for a 7pm sitting.
If Wes Anderson was to rove his hyper-stylised gaze over everyday British life, the result might look like Sometimes Always Never. If he transplanted his fondness for melancholy family dysfunction to Merseyside, it could resemble this grief-fuelled drama, too. And if the acclaimed auteur ever decided to set his sights on the game of Scrabble, the end product might also share much in common with Carl Hunter's debut stint as a feature filmmaker. To the director's immense credit, this elegant and tender movie always feels like a relative of Anderson's work instead of an imitation — a kindred spirit with evident similarities, but bearing its own sensibilities. Sometimes working with noticeably exaggerated backgrounds, always demonstrating a flair for quirkiness and precision in tandem, and never overplaying his aesthetic approach, Hunter turns Sometimes Always Never into a visual playground. Every stylistic choice reflects the inner states of the film's characters, with the first-timer's images doubling as an imaginative escape. Even when the movie merely watches the fashionable but forlorn Alan (Bill Nighy) wandering along a beachfront, takes him on a country road trip with his silently resentful son Peter (Sam Riley), or spies more than a few folks slinging Scrabble tiles, it does so with a curious and perceptive eye. Hunter understands the creative truth that sits at the heart of whimsy, surrealism and flights of fantasy, and at the heart of this picture as well: that finding a little magic in ordinary surroundings is a simple but effective coping mechanism. A retired tailor who hasn't lost his sense of style, Alan has plenty of worries that he'd happily avoid. His relationship with Peter is cordial but strained, his other son disappeared without a trace years earlier and, thanks to his preferred pastime, he'd rather work his charms on words than people. When a development in the missing person case doesn't turn out as hoped, Alan is caught at a crossroads. He can unofficially move into Peter's house, play nice with his daughter-in-law (Alice Lowe) and teenage grandson (Louis Healy), and keep deploying Scrabble as a distraction, or he can face his woes, stop wallowing on what he's lost and appreciate what he has left. Whether it's played casually between friends and family or competitively with money at stake, Scrabble requires a combination of inventiveness and rigour. A willingness to take risks is just as important as an extensive vocabulary — and although Alan knows this all too well, he's slow to apply the same thinking to his world in general. While Frank Cottrell Boyce's screenplay embraces life's troubles as much as its joys, it's never less than a pleasure to watch Something Always Never run its course. Indeed, there's an entrancing power to the movie's story and mood, with both acknowledging the many ways that grief can leave an imprint. Sometimes the film's sentiments prove a little too neat, but that's the exception rather than the rule. Intricate and vivid even when painted in subdued colours, Hunter's eye-catching imagery helps considerably, immersing viewers in the movie's distinctive tone and narrative realm. But pretty pictures can't pierce the heart quite like a slate of excellent performances, which Something Always Never boasts in spades. It's a testament to Nighy's talents that the veteran actor retains his familiar vibe, yet completely inhabits his character. It's a testament to Riley, Lowe and virtual newcomer Healy that they more than hold their own against their experienced co-star, as do fellow supports Jenny Agutter and Tim McInnerny. Among all of the film's astute elements, the great work of its cast ranks among the most crucial. You can't win at Scrabble without playing multiple hands, and you can't make an eccentric, insightful treatise on mourning and moving on without the handiwork of multiple players. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22R-JQRov_U
In need of some new procrastination material? Well, you're in luck. Google image search 'Banff' and spend a few minutes (or half an hour) taking in the gorgeous pictures of snow-capped mountains, aqua water and towering pines. It's impossible to not daydream about holidaying somewhere far-flung and exciting while ogling these picture-perfect views, as we're sure you'll agree. Thankfully, from Monday, April 1 to Saturday, April 6, you'll have the opportunity to slip into this magical world without ever leaving Brisbane. Brisbane Powerhouse is once again hosting Banff Mountain Film Festival's 2018 tour — the event's latest stopover, after beginning back in 1976. Its stunning cinematography attracts film buffs and adventurers alike making the festival popular across the world today. Every November, hundreds of films enter the competition with the cream of the crop chosen to entertain and amaze festival goers. Some of the featured flicks battled it out in categories including Best Film on Mountain Sport, Best Film on Mountain Environment, Best Film on Mountain Culture, Best Film on Exploration and Adventure, People's Choice Award and more.
Are you an early bird who likes to get flexible to start the day? A night owl who loves spending the twilight hours bending and stretching? Whichever category you fall into, do you like getting active for free — all within West End's latest greenery-filled precinct? With West Village now well and truly open, the new space is hosting twice-weekly exercise sessions in its central area, aka The Common. Run by the folks at Goodlife Health Clubs, the classes are open to everyone, whether you live in the neighbourhood or you're dropping by on your way to or from work. And yes, if you want to go to both each week, that's perfectly understandable. Get up with the sunlight on Mondays to catch a pilates session, which kick off at 6am — or head by at 6pm on Wednesdays to bliss out over yoga. The current batch of classes run from Monday, February 4 until Wednesday, March 27. Image: West Village. Updated January 31.
Since Seoul Bistro opened its doors in Sunnybank back in 2013, it has served up plenty of Japanese and Korean-inspired wings. Thanks to its all-you-can-eat wing buffet, they're the eatery's main attraction. Available in seven flavours, they keep coming until your stomach protests that it simply can't handle any more, with fries, garlic bread and iced tea also part of the buffet spread. To celebrate five years of slinging unlimited wings, the Turton Street spot is giving everyone what they want — a bottomless feast of wings, obviously, but at half price. You'll need to dine in between 5–10pm on Saturday, December 8, and you'll nab the whole spread for $10.95 per person. You'll probably also need to arrive early, as Seoul Bistro isn't taking bookings for this special occasion. Don't worry — the eatery has also marked their fifth birthday by opening an expanding dining area, doubling its original space. Spanning both indoors and outdoors, it now seats more than 100 people. Now, to decide whether you want crispy fried, sweet 'n' spicy, honey soy, honey wasabi, peri peri, buffalo with blue cheese sauce, or hot 'n' spicy wings — or, of course, all of them.
We love gelato. You love gelato. Everyone loves gelato. But do you really appreciate it? Could you appreciate it more? When it comes to Gelato Messina's frosty sweet treats, you mightn't think that's possible. That's where their Gelato Appreciation Classes come in, however. For two hours on a Saturday morning — with Brisbane's next sessions scheduled for February 23 and March 23, 2019 — you'll get a double scoop of gelato goodness. We're talking about learning plus eating (don't worry, you'll actually get much, much, much more ice cream than just two serves). Taking care of the first part of the class, Messina's gelato wizards will talk you through the company's story, share their secrets and show you how it's all done. If you've ever wondered how they perfect their flavours or what goes in to making one of their delectable cakes, you're about to find out. Then comes the main event, and we speak from experience when we say you'll want to wear something loose and comfy. Eat your way through a four-course gelato degustation, with the menu specially created for each session. Taste as many of Messina's flavours as you can (you can even taste everything in the cabinet if you can manage it). Finally, take your pick of flavours for a take-home pack, and enjoy your weekend-long gelato coma. Tickets cost $160 per person, and are certain to book out fast.
Picnic season is upon us, aka the time of year when sitting outside with a basket full of cheese is the only place to be. Throwing a few beverages into the mix always is always recommended, but Brisbane is sadly lacking when it comes to legal spots to drink outdoors. You won't have that problem at Pinknic, however. A spin-off from the popular Rosé Revolution, which has already sold out its main 2018 event, Pinknic is the relaxed rosé lunch ready to brighten up one particular summer Sunday. Come 11.30am on December 9, pink drink lovers will descend upon The Osbourne Hotel to sip their favourite tipple and eat a hamper full of goodies. Tickets cost $35, which includes a rosé on arrival, plus smoked salmon, duck paté, a baguette, cold cuts, grilled vegetables, cheese, and a macaron to munch on. Or, you can opt for the $120-for-two option, which comes with Mumm sparking rosé. Need more not-quite-red vinos in your life? A whole heap of fruity pink vino will be available to purchase as well.
The Gold Coast might be known for its sandy beaches, sizeable array of shopping strips and more than a couple of theme parks, but beyond all that lurks plenty of interesting and architecturally significant buildings. Luxe houses, towering residential buildings, historic theatres, the worlds first sand bypass system, a bathing pavilion that has been around for more than 80 years... the list goes on. It's a side of the Goldie most of us never ponder, and it's on display come Saturday, October 27. That's when Open House hits the sunny tourist spot, with 39 places welcoming anyone who'd like to take a sticky beak — and four walking tours shining a light on Mudgeeraba's heritage, Southport's art deco buildings, the landscape of the Federation Walk near Sea World, and all of the ins and outs of Pacific Fair. Remember your childhood dreams of getting to run rampant in a department store after hours? Or your grown-up version, involving IKEA? Think of this as a more realistic version, as well as a way to satisfy your architectural and design curiosity. As well as touring an array of the coast's top spaces, the program includes a free film and panel night on Saturday, October 20, exploring mid-century American and 60s Australian architecture.
UPDATE, September 17, 2021: A Star Is Born is available to stream via Paramount+, Foxtel Now, Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Amazon Video. It's been a decade since Lady Gaga's star was born in a cloud of upbeat pop and outlandish costuming, but with her first major film role, it's happening all over again. Stripped of the makeup, outfits and theatricality that have shaped her stage persona since she told the world to just dance, the singer is a revelation in A Star Is Born — both because of and despite the obvious. Belting out heartfelt ballads and throwaway pop alike, she clearly has the voice for the job. That said, it's how she performs when she's not crooning the movie's catchy tunes that's truly special. Like an actor gaining weight or sporting a physical ailment, wiping the gloss off an existing megastar might seem an acting cliche, however Gaga isn't simply playing tourist with normality. The 'Poker Face' popster plays Ally, who works in hospitality by day and unleashes memorable versions of 'La Vie En Rose' in a drag bar by night. An ordinary woman dreaming big, writing her own songs but never thinking that she'll make it, it's a part that Gaga lives and breathes with earthy, unguarded authenticity — almost as though she's been through it herself. The singer is electric in A Star Is Born's early scenes, as boozy country rocker Jackson Maine (Bradley Cooper) catches her club act, convinces her to have a drink with him and sparks fly. When he takes her home the next morning, says goodbye and then calls back to her from his limousine window, Jackson says what everyone watching is thinking: "I just want to take one more look at you". And look he does. Thanks to Jackson, his adoring gaze, and his certainty that Ally has both a genuine voice and something genuine to say, her fantasies start coming true. When he sends a driver to take her to one of his stadium shows, brings her out on stage and they duet one of her songs, the movie's title starts ringing true too. Love blossoms also, but Ally and Jackson's tale is one of rising as well as falling. For Jackson, the combination of alcoholism, hearing loss and childhood trauma leave a wound that only cuts deeper as Ally shines and his career fades. An aspiring talent striving to see their name in lights is one of the oldest narratives in Hollywood's book. In A Star Is Born's case, it dates back to 1937 — or 1932 if you count What Price Hollywood?, whose studio almost sued the original A Star Is Born for plagiarism. Across eight decades now, this sweeping tale just keeps hitting the screen, complete with remakes starring Judy Garland in 1954 and Barbra Streisand in 1976. With Gaga leading the charge this time around, it's easy to see why A Star Is Born keeps glowing. A crash course in the highs and lows of the American dream, it's a fantasy where wishes come true, but where everything has a cost. It's also an underdog story, a star-crossed romance, an account of trying to make it in entertainment, a drama about substance abuse and a warning about fame's many ills. Most of all, A Star Is Born is an unashamed melodrama. While that's a term that's been given a bad name of late, wrenching emotion and heightened drama is exactly what this story calls for. Not only co-starring but jumping into the writer and director's chairs for the first time, Cooper doesn't skimp on sentiment, with every passionate kiss, overwhelming moment and tragic development landing with undeniable force. And yet, his film never wallows in sappiness or spoon-feeds its feelings to the audience – even when it charts blatant plot points that even newcomers to the tale will spot, or suffers from bloat in its mid-section. Seamlessly updating the narrative for the 21st century with co-scribes Eric Roth (Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close) and Will Fetters (The Best of Me), Cooper understands the power of the material. A Star Is Born has been wowing audiences since the 1930s, after all. It helps that Cooper has a knack for visual storytelling, working with cinematographer Matthew Libatique (Mother!). A Star is Born's imagery sings its own affecting tune, with the actor-turned-director favouring shots that are grounded in the emotion of the narrative. Cooper also does his part as performer, both acting the sorrowful part and holding his own when it comes to his vocals. But his biggest gift to the movie is his willingness to let his collaborators glisten. While A Star Is Born is a definite showcase for a debut filmmaker who stars, croons, writes and directs, it gleams brighter thanks to the space and weight given to its cast. Sam Elliott is in astonishing form as Jackson's equally gruff and tender older brother, Dave Chappelle waxes kind and wise as an old pal telling it like it is, and Andrew Dice Clay is warm and protective as Ally's supportive dad. And, jumping from being one of the world's biggest pop stars to playing one of the world's biggest film roles, Gaga is far from the shallow now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ywkF1lj5wyI
Every week over at its Gasworks store, Salt Meats Cheese serves up all-you-can-eat pizza. Yes, it's as delicious as it sounds. If you're a vegan and you've been holding back, the eatery has you covered too. SMC mightn't ditch animal products as often, but when it does, it's something special. On Thursday, November 1, SMC's bottomless vegan pizza feast is back — and this time it includes unlimited vegan pasta as well. All you need to do is book a table in advance, with sittings available from 5pm. The pizza and pasta free-for-all will set you back a highly affordable $20, and while you'll also have to buy a drink, you can choose from both boozy and non-alcoholic options. For an extra $5, you can also opt for all-you-can-eat gluten-free vegan pizza as well. Finding decent slices that cater to dietary requirements is hard enough, let alone devouring as many as you feel like in one sitting, so expect this to be popular.
Rooftop and sky-high bars are no longer a novelty in Brisbane, but drinking cocktails while looking down on the city from 30 storeys above will always feel like something special. That's what's on offer at Sazerac, and has been since it opened a few years back — and if you still haven't made your way on up yet, the bar's Spring Soiree is your new excuse. Kicking off at 5.30pm on Thursday, October 18, the party is all about celebrating the season, with a suitably zesty cocktail menu ready for sipping. The event also doubles as an art show too, showcasing the work of Gold Coast artist Tracie Eaton. Her pieces will cover the bar's walls, and Eaton will also be onsite to do a stint of painting — of a model's body, live and in front of everyone. Entry is free, but you'll need to buy your beverages. And yes, we know what your thinking: your Thursday evening is definitely looking up.
