After a near-sold out first spin around the Brisbane river in 2017, Sydney's permanent floating venue, Seadeck, is once again heading north. From May 12 until mid October, the glamorous vessel will be cruising through Brissie waters for another season of luxe parties and hangouts. Missed Seadeck last time? It's been up and running in Sydney Harbour since October 2016 — after almost two years, 10,000 nautical miles, a run in with Egyptian pirates and a stint in liquor licence limbo. The boat's first venture up Australia's east coast resulted in an 11-week Brisbane stint, and it clearly just can't keep away. The vessel spans 42 metres, can accommodate 410 passengers and is the epitome of handcrafted luxury — from the handmade tiles and custom-designed brass bar to the bespoke furniture from every corner of the glove, everything you see was tailored for floating. Even the palm trees, standing four metres tall, took a dozen specialists to make to the right specifications. Each of the three decks is connected by sweeping staircases and cast iron lace railings, an homage to Hollywood's golden age of the '20s, '30s and '40s. Yes, the word 'swank' should come to mind. In 2016, we sat down with the team behind this massive venture — that's managing partner Scott Robertson (Future Music Festival, DIVISION Agency), executive chef Drew Bolton (Vine Double Bay) and design director Alex Zabotto-Bentley (AZBcreative). "It isn't a nightclub, it's all about impeccable service, beautiful food and nice drinks," says Robertson. Bolton is happy to help with that, bringing the Vine ethos to Seadeck. "At Vine, we reinvent modern European flavours with great respect for regional produce," says Bolton. "At Seadeck, our food will also be very produce drive but more casual and playful," he adds. Seadeck focuses on bar friendly snacks, like fresh ceviche, oysters and lobster rolls, but patrons should still expect the refined food experience that Vine exudes. Design-wise, this lap of luxury is the handiwork of Zabotto-Bentley, who radiates passion about the vessel. "Imagine it's the 1930s and you're cruising the Nile or the Dalmatia Coast," he says. "The people on board were seen to be on a floating oasis in the middle of the sea, and that's what we want to recreate here." Seadeck's second Brisbane visit will start on Saturday, May 12 with an afternoon cruise at 1.45pm. Tickets, available from the Seadeck website, start from $25 general admission on Friday nights and Sunday afternoons, and $40 general admission on Saturdays. If you're feeling the need to blow some serious dosh, VIP packages and hosted bottle service is also available. By Marissa Ciampi, Lauren Vadnjal and Sarah Ward.
Dying to grow your own food but failed to take the agriculture elective in high school? Been green with envy, eyeing off new apartment blocks' vertical gardens, yet don't know where to start when it comes to greening up your own home? You've come to the right place. As increasing the flower, fruit and foliage content of our urban lives becomes more and more desirable, so too does the technology enabling it. Read on to discover five systems for apartment gardening that'll have your place biodiversify-ing like the Amazon in no time — even if you've never planted a seed or picked out a weed in your life. SproutsIO If you're handier with your smartphone than you are with a trowel, SproutsIO could well be for you. Consisting of a network of pods, each home to a separate plant, it functions according to the commands of a mobile app, which works through both Android and iOS devices. There's no soil involved. Instead, oxygen and nutrients are delivered via mist, with special censors ensuring that light, humidity and temperature remain at optimum levels. According to creator Jennifer Broutin Farah, SproutsIO's productivity levels are up to six times higher than those generated by traditional soil-based methods. Currently nearing production; on-sale date TBC. Windowfarm This vertical, bioponic solution does exactly what its name suggests — transforms your window into a farm that would do Old McDonald proud. A reservoir at the base of the Windowfarm pumps nutrient-filled water upwards, feeding each plant's roots, which are protected not by soil but by a 'nest' comprised of clay pellets, coconut hair and rice hulls. US$199 for a one-column starter bundle at store.windowfarms.com Aqualibrium This isn't just an apartment garden: it's a fish tank and farm, combined. Made possible by a successful Kickstarter campaign, Aqualibrium works according to the principles of aquaponics. The fish create nutrients, which are cycled upwards to feed the plants, while the plants soak up the nutrients and send fresh, clean water downwards. If fish aren't your thing, you can replace them with pre-bottled nutrients, thereby transforming Aqualibrium into a hydroponics system. From US$300 at shop.aqualibrium.com Bitponics Want home-grown vegetables but simply don't have time to attend to them? At all? Bitponics is a fully automated hydroponics system that can run an entire season of gardening via the Cloud. Everything — including pH, light, water, temperature and humidity — is measured and regulated by wi-fi responsive sensors. $9/month per garden. Sign-ups coming soon at bitponics.com. String gardens They might not be as productive or automated as some of the fancy systems already discussed, but they have plenty of other advantages. They're cheap; they look cool and you can make them with your own two hands — from scratch.
In Stay of the Week, we explore some of the world's best and most unique accommodations — giving you a little inspiration for your next trip. In this instalment, we hop aboard PS Emmylou on the Murray River. WHAT'S SO SPECIAL? According to the PS Emmylou team, this is the world's only accommodated woodfire paddle steamer. You'll slowly float along the Murray River in this newly kitted-out boat, stopping off at small towns and natural sites to do some light exploring. It has to be one of the very best ways to see this part of Australia. THE ROOMS There are just eight luxe cabins on board the PS Emmylou — it's a proper small-group cruise. You can either opt for the twin cabins with two single beds or one of the double or queen cabins. Each of these is above deck and comes with its own ensuite bathroom, wifi, aircon and windows to let the fresh country air right into your room. There's also one larger suite (that you can book on the Concrete Playground Trips website) with double doors opening directly onto the verandah, where you can relax with a drink in hand and take in the ambience as you cruise the Murray River. This is for those wanting the full luxury experience. FOOD AND DRINK At the back of the paddle steamer, you'll find a covered deck that's set up for meals every day. Whenever you dine, stunning views will surround you. And there are stacks of great meals included. In the morning, you can fill up on a full English Breakfast or go continental — tucking into pastries, cereals and fresh fruit. Your caffeine fix is also sorted with barista-made coffee included. The onboard chef also makes a daily morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea for all the guests, ensuring your belly won't grumble at any part of the trip. Then there are the special multi-course dinners celebrating local produce (with house wine and beers also included). And depending on the itinerary you choose, you can experience gourmet picnics and riverside barbeque dinners under the stars — with live entertainment. [caption id="attachment_894062" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kayaking on the Murray River, Barmah National Park. DNSW.[/caption] THE LOCAL AREA There are two itinerary options available to those who jump aboard the PS Emmylou, taking you to the same parts of the Murray River region but spending more or less time at each. The three-day cruise starts at Echuca and stops off at Layfield Lane, Deep Creek Marina and Torrumbarry Weir. You'll be taken for tastings at Morrisons Riverside Winery and get a tour of the lush Pericoota Station gardens. Plenty of nature hikes are also available. There's also the seven-day cruise. This begins and ends at Torrumbarry Weir. It hits the same spots as the shorter cruise but takes more time to explore each part — that means you can go deeper into the remote areas on guided tours and hikes (and sneak in a few more cultural experiences and winery visits). THE EXTRAS This is an all-inclusive cruise. Return V/Line train fares to Echuca and local transfers to and from the boat are included as well as all your meals, coffee, alcohol and local guided tours. You'll also save about $500 when you book the three-day cruise through Concrete Playground Trips in the spacious Queen Suite. This deal gives you a pretty great reason to jump on board PS Emmylou and explore the mighty Murray River region in total comfort. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world. Images: DNSW
Forty years ago, fresh from making one of the greatest sci-fi/horror movies ever made in Alien, Ridley Scott gifted the world another futuristic classic that helped define and reshape science fiction on-screen. It's almost impossible to name a movie or TV series in the genre that's popped up over the past four decades and hasn't owed a huge debt to Blade Runner — and, soon, that list will include a new Blade Runner TV series. Philip K Dick's 1968 novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? has already given rise not just to Scott's iconic Harrison Ford-starring adaptation in 1982, but also to exceptional 2017 sequel Blade Runner 2049 and recent animated series Blade Runner: Black Lotus. Of course, if Ford's other huge sci-fi franchise can just keep popping back up, including on both the big and screens — see: The Force Awakens, Rogue One, The Last Jedi, Solo, The Rise of Skywalker, The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett — then clearly this one can as well. The Blade Runner series obviously has some catching up to do to get to Star Wars-level continuations, and quantity isn't the same as quality, but spending more time in its vision of the future is definitely welcome. The OG film was set in 2019, so we're now well past then — and the new series has been dubbed Blade Runner 2099, which means we'll be jumping quite a ways forward in time. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Amazon Studios is behind Blade Runner 2099, once again bringing a small-screen favourite to streaming given that it's doing exactly that in September this year with the eagerly awaited The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. When it leaps forward to 2099, the new Blade Runner show will act as a sequel to both the initial film and Blade Runner 2049 — but who'll be starring and directing hasn't yet been revealed. That said, busy The Last Duel and House of Gucci filmmaker Scott has confirmed his involvement, Variety reports, noting that the pilot for the show has already been written, and that it's envisioned as a ten-hour series. There's obviously no sneak peek at Blade Runner 2099 yet, but you can check out the trailer for the original 1982 Blade Runner below: Blade Runner 2099 doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you when more news is announced. Via Variety / The Hollywood Reporter.
Cyclists, for a long time considered well behind the peloton in the fashion stakes, seem to be catching up. Leading designers are decking them out in fashionable threads, and now the helmet is even starting to look good. Perhaps fuelled by the rise in cycle chic, designers are now rethinking the humble lid and giving it a new look — after all, what’s the point of looking sharp in your $650 jacket if you cap it off with a Stackhat? Designboom have gathered together some of the more interesting takes on the humble helmet. Some simply add some quality materials to the traditional design, others take inspiration from the military, or nature. The more radical ideas start with a blank slate, and end up with something foldable that can be slipped in your handbag or back pocket. They might look great and suit your new outfit perfectly, but many of them wouldn’t meet Australian safety standards. Which is a shame, as it seems that a lot of cyclists would rather be a traffic-victim than a fashion-victim. [via Designboom]
You mightn't usually be the kind of person who yells at the TV when you're watching something. In fact, you may have never exclaimed aloud during a streaming binge. But all bets are off when Curb Your Enthusiasm is on — because Larry David, playing a heightened and fictionalised version of himself, constantly behaves in a manner that'll make you shout an exasperated but still amused "Larry!?!?!?!" more than once. Across ten seasons since 2000, the series has followed the Seinfeld co-creator's life after that huge hit, including both his personal and professional ups and downs. Over that time, he's gotten the Seinfeld gang back together for a reunion, fallen asleep during Hamilton and starred in a Broadway production of The Producers — all within the show, that is. Larry isn't particularly fond of following social conventions, which is the source of much of Curb Your Enthusiasm's awkward comedy. There's no one better at it, actually, and much of the dialogue is improvised, too.
A literal underdog tale about scrappy canines, a plucky orphan and a pooch-hating politician with an evil scheme, Isle of Dogs isn't just Wes Anderson's latest movie. Filled with heart, humour and witty dialogue, this doggone delight is the most Wes Anderson-esque movie the acclaimed filmmaker has ever made. Anyone who's seen any of his previous flicks knows exactly what that means, with the writer-director's work almost comprising its own genre. Think quirky quests about spirited characters following their own paths, set in worlds that cleverly expose humanity's desires and fears. Then there are his signature visuals, complete with symmetrical compositions that look like they belong in a gallery, and distinctive colour palettes anyone would love to plaster all over their own walls. Constructed with the tail-wagging enthusiasm of man's best friend, all of these familiar components fall into place in the stop-motion animated wonder that is Isle of Dogs. And that's before Anderson trots out his other trademark: an A-list cast. For this walk around the block, he's joined by regular collaborators Bill Murray, Jeff Goldblum, Tilda Swinton, Bob Balaban, Harvey Keitel, Frances McDormand and Edward Norton, plus Anderson newcomers Bryan Cranston, Greta Gerwig, Scarlett Johansson, Liev Schreiber, Yoko Ono and Ken Watanabe. Throw in a story written with The Darjeeling Limited co-scribes Roman Coppola and Jason Schwartzman as well as The Grand Budapest Hotel actor Kunichi Nomura, and the end product couldn't feel more like an Anderson movie if it tried. Set 20 years into the future, Isle of Dogs begins in the fictional Megasaki, as the Japanese city faces a difficult doggy dilemma. Its howling furballs are infected with dog flu and snout fever, sparking fears that the virus could soon spread to humans. Hailing from a long line of cat fanciers and hardly keen on pooches, Mayor Kobayashi (Nomura) decides to banish all canines to Trash Island. To demonstrate his commitment to the cause, he even exiles his own family pet: a short-haired oceanic speckle-eared sport hound by the name of Spots (voiced by Schreiber). That's the setup. But Anderson's film really starts barking once the action moves to its offshore garbage pile — the actual isle of dogs. There, abandoned pooches fight for food, form packs and try to survive, as the mayor's orphaned 12-year-old nephew Atari (Koyu Rankin) discovers on his mission to find Spots. He's assisted in his task by Rex (Norton) and a ragtag gang of misfit mutts, including ex-baseball mascot Boss (Murray), one-time dog food spokesdog King (Balaban) and admitted gossip Duke (Goldblum). Gruff outsider Chief (Cranston) isn't thrilled about helping the boy they dub 'the little pilot', but he knows a lost puppy when he sees one. With a former show dog (Johansson), an oracle pug (Swinton), robo-hounds, and a crusading American exchange student (Gerwig) also playing their parts, Isle of Dogs isn't short on antics. Anderson fills his narrative to the brim like an overflowing bowl of dog treats, spoiling viewers like he'd spoil his own animal companion. It's an approach that matches his lovingly detailed images, which surpass even Fantastic Mr Fox's animated splendour. Aesthetically, every second of the movie delivers something gorgeous and glorious — be it the lifelike puppetry of its central canines, a particularly meticulous sushi scene, or fond odes to Japanese filmmaking icons Akira Kurosawa and Yasujirō Ozu. Indeed, even if Isle of Dogs hadn't paired its eye-catching contents with smart, timely parallels — a power-hungry leader, discarded population and trash-filled land mass make it impossible to miss the film's political, social and environmental commentary — it'd still make an ace addition to Anderson's oeuvre. That said, there's one area where the director shows his own limits. While Anderson is a seasoned master at combining exquisite visuals, lively voice work, an engaging story and a memorable message, a couple of his choices give pause (not paws) for thought. Isle of Dogs oozes affection for its location in every intricate element and never uses Japanese culture as decoration – but translating canine chatter into English while offering Japanese dialogue without subtitles threatens to marginalise the country the film is paying tribute to. Similarly problematic is Gerwig's character, who swoops in to help Megasaki's residents battle the mayor's nefarious plan, and sticks a little too closely to the white saviour trope in the process. Thankfully, she's never the main attraction, in what proves an otherwise charming tale about a determined boy, his undying love for his beloved pet, and a whole island of adorable dogs. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlakrjfzCig
Not content with selling sweet and savoury treats from their James Street base, Brisbane's favourite bread, cake, pastries and provisions providers are spreading the love this festive season. If you're fond of the amazing array of edible items that Jocelyn's Provisions bakes up and you're in the city's east, then you'd best put on your stretchiest pants and hightail it over to their Camp Hill pop-up. Until December 21, expect scrumptious wares aplenty at Jocelyn's temporary digs at Camp Hill Marketplace on Samuel Street. Whether you're keen on a caramel, pear and pecan cake, chocolate swirl cheesecake or trusty lemon tart — to name a just a few items from their menu — it's the stuff food lover's dreams are made of. Feasting on all of the above until the big day is completely understandable — and to be expected, really. Drop on by from Monday to Friday between 10am and 5pm, or on Saturday from 9am to 4pm.
Maggie Gyllenhaal and Hugh Dancy head up a stellar cast in Tanya Wexler's offbeat comedy Hysteria, based on the true story of Dr. Mortimer Granville — the man who created the world's first vibrator, back in 1880. In a search to cure the baffling female medical condition of the day, 'hysteria', the young doctor (played by Dancy) and his new boss Dr. Dalrymple (Jonathon Pryce) create the 'feather duster', offering women intimate manual relief from their condition – and, by chance, generating a surprising increase in business. The film is a joyful and light-hearted take on the birth of the sex toy, likely to put a knowing smile on a few faces in the audience. Concrete Playground has ten double passes to give away. To be in the running to win a pair of tickets to Hysteria, make sure you're subscribed to Concrete Playground then email your name and postal address to hello@concreteplayground.com.au
You can never be bored on Boundary Street. That's just a fact of Brisbane-based life. Pick any three spots, make an agenda and you've got a fun morning out — including browsing for secondhand clothes, settling in for breakfast at an iconic eatery and boosting your reading list. SWOP Clothing Exchange has the first part taken care of, but if you're heading by on a day other than Friday, don't forget to make an appointment. Then grab brekkie at the Gunshop Cafe, aka West End's favourite spot, before spending a healthy amount of time rifling through the shelves — and asking the staff for recommendations — at Avid Reader.
Brisbanites, if your flight routine involves checking in, going through security, stocking up on snacks and then having a cheeky pre-flight drink, you now have a new place to do the latter. Newstead Brewing Co has just set up shop inside Brisbane Airport's domestic terminal, launching its new taphouse on the facility's second level — and giving you a new excuse to say cheers to your next trip. The airport venue marks Newstead Brewing's third site — after its original location in Newstead, obviously, and its second home in Milton. Originally due to open in 2020, but delayed due to the pandemic, the domestic terminal bar sprawls across 300 square metres near gate 38, and has room to welcome in 120 pre-departure beer-lovers. While you're sipping a brew from the 12 taps, you'll look out over the runway. That's what airport bars are all about, after all. Here, you'll be able to choose from Newstead Brewing's core range, or knock back pints of its exclusive airport beer — the fittingly named Tailwood Ale. The site will also pour the brewery's limited-release brews as they pop up. If you're feeling hungry before hopping onboard, the taphouse's pub-style food menu spans Moreton Bay Bug rolls, chicken parmigianas, burgers and pizzas, plus a range of vegetarian, gluten-free and vegan dishes. And, decor-wise, Newstead Brewing has stuck with the same industrial look as its other sites, bringing a touch of the brewery aesthetic to the new venue. Opened in partnership with Airport Retail Enterprises — who are also behind the onsite Coffee Royal, Graze Grill & Bar, Merlo Caffee, Mezze Za Za, Seeds by Bruno Loubet and New Farm Confectionery stores — the Newstead Brewing taphouse forms part of Brisbane Airport's $40 million revamp of the domestic terminal.
Are you ready to laugh? Of course you are — and hopefully your stomach muscles and lung capacity are primed for the next month of funniness, too. That’s right, from February 24 to March 22 it’s Brisbane Comedy Festival time, when the Brisbane Powerhouse becomes the home of humour, and your insides hurt from constant chuckling. It is easy to forget that BCF is still a relatively new event, probably because each festival’s lineup reads like a seasoned comedy roster. In only the seventh year that Brisbane has had its own celebration of hilarity, the best in local talent and a smattering of overseas stars combine once more, with more than 40 acts stepping up to the mic. Ogling the program is the easy part; narrowing down who and what to see is much harder. For that, here are our top ten BCF picks.
We're going back ... back to see Back to the Future, this time as a musical on the Sydney Lyric's stage. First floated 20 years ago by the big-screen trilogy's screenwriter Bob Gale, then finally premiering in 2020, the song-filled take on Marty McFly and Doc Brown's exploits has proven an award-winning success in London's West End and on Broadway. In 2025, the DeLorean has finally arrived in Sydney. The power of Back to the Future isn't really a curious thing. As viewers have known since 1985, the Michael J Fox (The Good Fight)-starring sci-fi/comedy is a timeless delight. But as well as making film lovers weep with joy for almost four decades, the iconic movie has been making other folks sing — the casts of the Olivier Award-winning Back to the Future: The Musical, that is. Aussie audiences can now experience the award-winning musical at the Sydney Lyric. Exclaiming "great Scott!" is obviously the only fitting response to this development, and to the production in general — and there's clearly plenty to get excited about. Since initially racing towards clocktowers onstage in the UK since early 2020 (around a pandemic hiatus or two, of course), Back to the Future: The Musical has picked up the Olivier Award for Best New Musical, and then was nominated for two Tony Awards in 2024. And yes, the show does indeed follow the Marty McFly and Doc Brown-led story we all know and adore, but with songs, including renditions of Chuck Berry's 'Johnny B Goode' and Huey Lewis and the News' 'The Power of Love' and 'Back in Time', naturally. [caption id="attachment_1049421" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] Australian fans will now want to speed at 88 miles per hour towards the Harbour City, given that it is the only Aussie city where a season of Back to the Future: The Musical has been announced so far, so bookmark a trip to the Harbour City to see it — or pop on your own white lab coat, start tinkering around with electronics and whip up your own time machine to try to make it happen. Also featuring music and lyrics by OG Back to the Future composer Alan Silvestri and acclaimed songwriter Glen Ballard (Jagged Little Pill the Musical), plus a book by Gale — who co-penned all three Back to the Future film scripts with filmmaker Robert Zemeckis (Here) — Back to the Future: The Musical was nominated for seven Olivier Awards. It only won the big one, but emerged victorious over heavy-hitters and fellow screen-to-stage shows Moulin Rouge! The Musical and Frozen. Tickets are on sale now. For more info, head to the website. [caption id="attachment_1049422" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption]
Move over Matt Damon, French acting icon Alain Delon, the great Dennis Hopper, Lawmen: Bass Reeves star Barry Pepper and John Malkovich: there's a new Tom Ripley in town. Actually, Malkovich hasn't gone far. Netflix's upcoming limited series Ripley stars All of Us Strangers and Fleabag favourite Andrew Scott as its namesake, but he's joined by an actor who has also played the Patricia Highsmith-penned part, as the just-dropped first teaser trailer for one of 2024's most-anticipated new TV titles shows. An eight-part effort arriving on Thursday, April 4, Ripley isn't short on drawcards, then — Scott chief among them. He's stepped into iconic characters' shoes before, and suave yet scheming folks that can't be trusted, thanks to his stint as Moriarty in Sherlock. Now, one of the internet's boyfriends is taking on the fictional con artist that debuted on the page in Highsmith's 1955 book The Talented Mr Ripley. That novel has reached the screen twice before, as 1960 crime-thriller Purple Noon starring Delon, then as the Damon (Oppenheimer)-led The Talented Mr Ripley in 1999. Where the latter also featured Gwyneth Paltrow (The Politician) as Marge Sherwood and Jude Law (Peter Pan & Wendy) as Dickie Greenleaf, Dakota Fanning (The Equalizer 3) and Johnny Flynn (One Life) are doing the honours this time. As seen in the initial sneak peek at Ripley, Malkovich (Billions) also pops up in the series, which follows its eponymous figure to Italy. Tom's gig: being paid by a rich man to persuade his son to come home. Steven Zaillian, who has excellent fellow miniseries The Night Of on his resume alongside screenplays for Martin Scorsese's Gangs of New York and The Irishman, plus an Oscar for Schindler's List, scripted and directed all eight episodes. He takes his cues from the novelist who also gave the world Strangers on a Train and The Price of Salt — with the first brought to cinemas by Alfred Hitchcock and the second adapted as Carol. And if you're wondering about Malkovich's time as Tom Ripley, he played the character in 2002's Ripley's Game, the second adaptation of Highsmith's third Ripley novel of the same name after 1977's The American Friend with Hopper. The author also wrote Ripley Under Ground, which was turned into a 2005 Pepper-led film, plus The Boy Who Followed Ripley and Ripley Under Water. Check out the first teaser trailer for Ripley below: Ripley streams via Netflix from Thursday, April 4, 2024. Images: Lorenzo Sisti / Netflix.
Native ingredients take centre stage at Ochre, a Cairns institution that has been impressing diners with its creative cuisine for almost 30 years. It's a feast for the eyes, too, as its waterfront location on the Harbour Lights boardwalk offers picturesque views of the adjacent inlet and lush mountains beyond, serving as a reminder of the region's rich and abundant food sources. Take it all in as you tuck into signature dishes like salt and native pepper leaf prawn and crocodile with Vietnamese pickle and lemon aspen sambal; char-grilled kangaroo sirloin with sweet potato fritter, bok choy and a quandong and chilli sauce; and wattleseed pavlova with davidson plum sorbet and macadamia biscotti. The dedication to local is also showcased via the drinks offering, which includes an exclusively Australian wine list with over 30 available by the glass, as well as an impressive selection of Australian spirits.
It's a film about searching for treasure, and it is indeed a treasure. La Chimera is also dreamy in its look and, while watching, makes its viewers feel as if they've been whisked into one. There's much that fantasies are made of in writer/director Alice Rohrwacher's fourth feature, which follows Corpo Celeste, The Wonders and Happy as Lazzaro — God's Own Country breakout and The Crown star Josh O'Connor leading the picture as a British archaeologist raiding tombs in 80s-era Italy chief among them. Thinking about Lara Croft, be it the game, or the Angelina Jolie (in 2001 and 2003 flicks)- or Alicia Vikander (2018's Tomb Raider)-led movies, is poking into the wrong patch of soil. Thinking instead about the way that life is built upon the dead again and again, and upon unearthed secrets as well, is part of what makes La Chimera gleam. Rohrwacher's latest, which also boasts her Happy as Lazzaro collaborator Carmela Covino as a collaborating writer — plus Marco Pettenello (Io vivo altrove!) — resembles an illusion not just because it's a rare mix of both magical-realist and neorealist in one, too (well, rare for most who aren't this director). In addition, this blend of romance and drama alongside tragedy and comedy sports its mirage-esque vibe thanks to being so welcomely easy to get lost in. As a snapshot of a tombaroli gang in Tuscany that pilfers from Etruscan crypts to try to get by, it's a feature to dig into. As an example of how poetic a film can be, it's one to soar with. The loose red thread that weaves throughout La Chimera's frames, intriguing folks within the movie, also embodies how viewers should react: we want to chase it and hold on forever, even as we know that, as the feature's 130 minutes tick by, the picture is destined to slip through our fingers. Wearing his crumpled linen suits and residing in his makeshift shack, O'Connor's Arthur knows what it's like to not be able to grasp tightly onto what you want. Just as the movie that he's in transports its audience four decades back, he's stuck in the past, obsessing over the missing Beniamina (Yile Yara Vianello, The Beautiful Summer). Stolen Italian artefacts are his trade, with friends to help with the excavations but his own divining methods (rod included) locating where an invisible X marks the spot. When he's not dowsing and delving, or offloading the loot he extracts to antiquities dealers who profit from and perpetuate the cycle of tombaroli thievery far more than Arthur and his pals, the mansion of Beniamina's mother Flora (Isabella Rossellini, Spaceman) is his frequent pilgrimage. It was equally true of The Wonders and Happy as Lazzaro: a movie by Rohrwacher, and with cinematographer Hélène Louvart (Disco Boy, The Lost Daughter, Never Rarely Sometimes Always) behind the lens, is a movie that looks ethereal and earthy at once. Shot on a mix of different film stocks (35-millimetre, 16-millimetre and Super16), La Chimera's imagery virtually floats, but it similarly sees the dirt and the grit. Arthur's journey couldn't better live and breathe that contrast as he illicitly uncovers riches in a marvellous setting, but not without the grime and the risk that goes with it. He also starts the feature freshly released from jail for his grave-robbing manner of making a living, then spends his time chasing more 2000-year-old pieces — pottery, statues and such — that mysterious broker Spartaco will pay for, as punctuated with chats with Flora and a burgeoning connection with her housekeeper Italia (Carol Duarte, Segunda Chamada). The language of archaeology, whether taking from the dead or studying history through its physical remains, is the language of discovering and seeking — and mine, disinter and pursue, Arthur does, including with his feelings and hopes. He pines for his lost love while burrowing down where valuables, secrets and lives gone by are kept; he's navigating his own Orpheus and Eurydice as well. He's haunted, plunging literally to where such torments spring from in humanity's eternal grappling with mortality, and also emotionally and psychologically into memories that gnaw as if they too are possessed. A mastery of symbolism is among Rohrwacher's many skills as a filmmaker; however, so is a command of effortlessly lingering in the realm, as La Chimera does, between the tangible and intangible. Here's another talent to her name: casting, especially with O'Connor standing in front of the camera. While Rossellini's involvement is a magnificent touch — only she can switch to marauding from warm, and back, so naturalistically and so quickly; also, the link with Italian cinema history that she brings via her director father Roberto Rossellini, the neorealist great, is so wonderfully apt — O'Connor is an exquisite choice as La Chimera's lead. Rumpled charm, lost-soul melancholy, drifting and yearning, a hold on his temper that's flimsier than a deal on the relics black market: as Arthur, he conveys or has them all. A picture as enigmatic as this needs someone at its centre that's able to both go with its flow and be grounded — and again, in a role that joins Mothering Sunday, Emma, Hope Gap and Challengers on his post-God's Own Country resume, that's O'Connor. As La Chimera proves evocative and expressive, and loose and playful, it takes its audience on an adventure so layered and distinctive that Rohrwacher could be the only one guiding it. Thoughtful and contemplative as her film also is, it has clear eyes to stare daggers at social inequality, and towards those who think that they can own the past. Forming a trilogy with The Wonders and Happy as Lazzaro — one about beekeepers, the other about sharecroppers, each fascinated with communities that are far from the everyday now, as with the tombaroli — La Chimera almost feels as if it has pulled off a heist itself, then. In ensuring that every single element of the movie works perfectly, this gem steals itself a place as an unforgettable piece of cinema; long may it keep being cherished.
Maybe you love swimming laps. Perhaps a leisurely soak is your favourite way to cool down. Or, nothing could say summer to you quite like hanging out poolside. Whichever category fits, you might've lived the pool life at one of Brisbane's City Council's public venues, especially if you don't have your own backyard spot to splash in. This upcoming summer, for $2 a pop, you really should. From Friday, December 1, 2023–Thursday, February 29, 2024 Brisbane's City Council is slashing the entry fee to all 22 of its public pools around the River City. For the entire three months of summer, having a splash will only cost you $2. Set to be part of the 2023–24 council budget, the program is named $2 Summer Dips for obvious reasons, and that discounted price will apply to everyone — adults and kids alike. [caption id="attachment_621822" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council[/caption] If you haven't hit up a public pool for a while, it's a considerable saving, dropping the adult entry price from $6.40 to $2. The reduced rate will also cover every single day across the period, too, which includes all of the Christmas and New Year public holidays. And, there's no other catches or caveats — 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. [caption id="attachment_777650" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] The 22 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. Newmarket Olympic Swimming Pool, Chermside Pool, Bellbowrie Pool, Jindalee 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_777649" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kgbo via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] "Our council is committed to ensuring Brisbane residents have access to free and affordable events and activities. Rising living costs are driving up bills, chewing into people's disposable incomes and impacting their ability to undertake fun and healthy activities," said Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, announcing $2 Summer Dips. "Slashing the cost of swimming at council's fantastic pools and aquatic centres is a big win for Brisbane residents." [caption id="attachment_904760" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] [caption id="attachment_904761" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] [caption id="attachment_777652" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] Brisbane City Council's $2 Summer Dips program will run from Friday, December 1, 2023–Thursday, February 29, 2024. To find your closest public pool, head to the council website. Check out our list of the best outdoor swimming pools in Brisbane for 2023. Top image: Cieran Murphy.
USB sticks are stripped back to basics with Flashkus, an innovative design by Russian company Art Lebedev Studio. Reflecting on the disposable nature of electronic storage, the design team foresaw a near future in which "all electronics will be contained on the tip of a detachable cardboard module." Each Flashkus is created from thin strips of recyclable cardboard, allowing for easy disk-labeling and the potential to recycle the body of the disk once you're done. The Flashkus is eco-friendly, no-nonsense and minimalistic. The team behind its creation predict it "is going to be an even more convenient storage device than the floppy disk was back then."
While La Niña may be threatening hot vax summer, no doubt you still intend on living it up over the warmer months. After all, you've got mates to catch up with, new bars to check out and a swathe of live gigs to see. And, with all these social occasions coming up, you're probably keeping an eye out for some new summer threads. Lucky for you, top seltzer brand White Claw has teamed up with local fashion brand Barney Cools to bring you the ultimate wardrobe to cruise around in this summer. The brands are basically the epitome of summer, so the collab makes sense. And the best news? You can score it for free. The White Claw x Barney Cools all-white capsule collection includes three epic items: a terry cord party shirt, a breezy vintage-style tee and corduroy cap. Each limited-edition piece is designed to be genderless, too, so they'll suit anyone and everyone who's keen to make the most of summer. Oh, and did we mention that the prize also includes one White Claw variety pack? The new-release pack includes four flavours: watermelon, mango, lime and grapefruit. There are ten White Claw x Barney Cools packs to be won around the country. Should you win, you'll score some White Claws and all three clothing items, so you can don them to the beach, pub, park and just about everywhere else you plan to hit this summer. Keen to win some new summer threads? Enter your details below to go in the running. [competition]836217[/competition]
One of Brisbane's most recent traditions is also one of its most fun: themed mini golf at different times of year at the Victoria Park Putt Putt Course. At Christmas, the site gives itself a festive revamp. At Easter, a candy-themed wonderland pops up. And, the Halloween spirit kicks in for a month and a half leading up to the spookiest date of the year — including in 2023. From Friday, September 15–Tuesday, October 31, the venue's greens will be getting a horror-themed makeover — and, no, missing a hole in one won't be the most terrifying thing about your stint on the course. Creepy clowns, evil dolls, zombies, witches, spiders, toxic waste barrels, tombstones, pumpkins: they're among the petrifying things that'll be improving or scaring your short game again. So is a spot called Broken Bones Boulevard. If a haunted house was to meet up with a mini golf course, this is what it'd look like. Bookings are essential, with the course open from 6am–10pm Sunday–Thursday and 6am–11pm Friday–Saturday. 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 — and tickets cost $23 per adult. Also, for liquid courage, there'll be Altos Tequila slushie margaritas available to purchase.
From its awe-inspiring scenery to its hefty brew tours and the 200 sprawling wineries that call it home, the Margaret River region has become one of Australia's top destinations for those looking to escape the city in style. Situated about three hours from Perth, this bustling coastal setting offers surf beaches, lush forests and ancient underground cave systems all in one spot — which is especially exciting if you're looking for a bit of variety on a weekend trip this winter. With a landscape as diverse as this, it shouldn't come as a surprise that Margaret River is also home to incredible outdoor experiences that are ready and waiting for you to enjoy. There's a lot to choose from, but who doesn't love being spoilt for choice? To help, we've put our heads together with Virgin Australia to come up with the very best activities to make your getaway unforgettable. There'll be wine. There'll be beaches. And, of course, there'll be adventures. [caption id="attachment_719648" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Phil Whitehouse via Flickr[/caption] EXPLORE THE LIMESTONE CAVES OF LEEUWIN NATURALISTE RIDGE When you're viewing it from ground level, the Margaret River region is rather spectacular — but heading underground also reveals incredible sights. Formed around a million years ago, there are over 100 limestone caves throughout Margaret River. They're considered some of the most extraordinary in Australia. The Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge is where you'll find many of them, with this expansive system featuring alluring crystal formations aplenty. Across a variety of guided and self-led tours, you can follow staircases and boardwalks that'll take you right into the depths of the earth. And if you only have time to visit a select few caves, don't miss your chance to see Lake Cave's imposing entrance or Jewel Cave, with its collection of stalactites that are over five metres tall. ABSEIL DOWN THE SEASIDE CLIFFS WITH MARGARET RIVER CLIMBING CO Rising 40 metres above the Indian Ocean, the Wilyabrup Sea Cliffs are among the most picturesque in the Margaret River region, stretching along the rugged coastline for a half-kilometre. If you enjoy a bit of death-defying action to go with your holiday, hook yourself into these towering red granite cliffs with the Margaret River Climbing Co — and step off the edge as you abseil your way down the sheer rock face. There's no need to worry if it's your first time. There are plenty of sections that are suitable for beginners, while experienced abseilers will still find a difficult challenge. Hanging from the cliff face presents you with pretty unbeatable ocean views, naturally. Our tip: keep an eye out for the pods of whales and dolphins that are often seen swimming amid these coastal currents. TREK THE CAPE NATURALISTE TO SUGARLOAF ROCK WALK The Cape to Cape Track is one of the most impressive treks you can complete in the Margaret River region. While you'll likely be a little busy indulging in the local food and wine to make the entire 140-kilometre journey, the Cape Naturaliste to Sugarloaf Rock section offers a pleasant introduction to the outstanding landscape. Setting off from the popular Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, this relaxing three-and-a-half-kilometre stretch will have you stepping along a mix of gentle walking paths and timber boardwalks as you soak up the peaceful coastal views. To get the ideal experience, aim to reach Sugarloaf Rock just as the sun begins to set. Sitting just off the coastline in the Indian Ocean, this majestic rock formation is lit up daily by quite the striking colours as the sun dips below the horizon. TAKE A SUNSET CANOE RIDE ALONG THE MARGARET RIVER Sticking with the sunset theme, the Sunset Canoe Tour is your chance to float down Margaret River in complete serenity as the day draws to a close. You'll drift upstream flanked by wildflowers and forest — and it won't be long before you spy soaring limestone cliffs. Next, you'll watch as the late afternoon light sets the rock faces alight with a radiant glow, before continuing onwards in search of a secluded beachfront. Once you hit the sand, listen out for the chorus created by the local wildlife. It'll provide the perfect soundtrack as you rest on the beach with a glass of wine, a delicious canapé and a view of the last light as it disappears over the Indian Ocean. SEE THE REGION FROM ABOVE DURING A SCENIC HELICOPTER FLIGHT Make the most of your time by getting high above the Margaret River with a scenic helicopter ride. This part of the world provides a wealth of amazing natural wonders, so why not encounter the vast ocean and coastal landscape from the air? From farmland to forests to golden brown cliffs, you'll also hover above the boutique wineries and their seemingly endless rows of grapes — the ones that have helped put Margaret River on the map. Among the highlights, you'll also get to see Rivermouth, Surfer's Point, the Ellenbrook House and Cape Mentelle Vineyards, one of the oldest and most attractive wineries in all of Margaret River. If you're now eagerly planning a visit to Margaret River, check out Virgin Australia's holiday packages — which offer everything from chilled-out cottages to massive resorts.
The age of anything and everything available online is extending its reach to even the most humanitarian of acts: charity. Lending a hand to New Zealand's earthquake victims has been made simple with the development of the Christchurch Cafe, a virtual coffee shop that donates 100% of its profits to survivors suffering from severe income loss. The inspirational site was created by the workers at Crafted Coffee, a Christchurch shop that was fortunate enough to escape the wrath of the devastating quake in February. The virtual cafe aims to aid business owners that were not so lucky by offering a menu of virtual coffee beverages, beans and equipment, priced from $2 to $300, that can be purchased in the form of a donation by a mere click of the mouse. Each item is linked to a Paypal site, making the process that much easier. Victims in need apply for aid online and Christchurch Cafe offers $200 per month, per person for as many as they can support with the money raised. Although you may not get the kick of caffeine that comes with any other flat white at a cozy coffee shop, every dollar contributed to the Christchurch Cafe helps the struggling New Zealanders afford food and housing that is difficult to come by in the horrific aftermath of the earthquake. Now, let us not rule out boxing up unwanted clothes or extra canned goods to help out victims of natural disasters, but hopefully skipping your morning brew and donating a virtual flat white instead will catch on as a means of giving aid, and the altruistic buzz should more than make up for the missed caffeine kick.
Some days you feel like putting together a vaguely cohesive outfit and getting dressed to leave the house; others, not so much. If you're more familiar with the latter, let us introduce you to Willa & Mae, the New Zealand label that's attempting to make it acceptable to wear your pyjamas in public. Well, your designer pyjamas, anyway. This winter, the sleepwear-turned-lifestyle label makes its foray into Australia with ultra comfortable, effortlessly elegant pieces that are designed to be worn out of the house. Having landed in Australia in February, Willa & Mae's winter 2017 collection is available to purchase from March 31, and fundamentally functions as your new excuse to wear PJs in public and not look like a grub. Creative director Jane Mow brings her background in menswear tailoring and styling to the brand, creating an androgynous line of highly elegant jammies. Navy, cherry and suiting stripes take shape in the old-world style of men's silk pyjamas, while long slip dresses, buttery camisoles and billowing robes recall the halcyon days of elegant women's loungewear. As piping, notched collars and cuffs evoke a certain masculinity, the luxurious silk satins maintain sensual femininity. The foundation of Willa & Mae lies within "taking opposing ideas and asking them to play together" – like wearing your sleepwear out of the house, and still looking great. The label is guided by the unexpected through materials and patterns used, and the way its styles not only suit the bedroom, but also a night out. There's a Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde relationship happening; on the one hand you have the sharp, feisty trendsetter Willa, and, on the other, there's Mae, keeping things grounded as the elegant, subdued yin to Willa's yang. Willa & Mae's price point may sit a bit high for your pyjama budget — between $300 and $700 — but the dawn-to-dusk-to-dawn versatility, quality silks and promised longevity means that, arguably, you don't ever need to wear anything else. And if you need one last nudge to jump on this pyjamas-in-public bandwagon, everything is made locally and ethically. Tick, tick and tick. Willa & Mae's winter 2017 collection is available online from March 31. Shop the collection here.
International sportswear label Adidas continues its efforts to save the world's oceans, announcing it will contribute $1.5 million USD to the Parley Ocean School Program. The catch? It will donate $1 for every kilometre run, so grab your joggers and pound the pavement for a good cause. Runners can clock their kilometres by joining the Run for the Oceans group within the app Runtastic, which is free to download on iPhone and android. There are also a slew of Adidas and Parley running events happening across Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, New York, Paris, Berlin, London, Barcelona, Milan and Shanghai, which you can also partake in. The initiative is running globally from June 8–16, 2019, and is capped at $1.5 million USD. Last year, 12 million kilometres were run and $1 million USD were raised for the same initiative. https://www.facebook.com/adidasAU/photos/a.614311325637497/779507399117888/?type=3&theater Parley Ocean School Program is a branch of environmental charity Parley for the Oceans that educates and empowers the next generation about the importance of the ocean, the dangers of plastic waste and what we can do to protect the ocean and its marine live. Together with Parley, this is just Adidas' latest campaign to help save the ocean and reach its 2024 goal of eliminating the use of virgin polyester from all products. The 2019 Parley apparel range will also see the the company produce 11 million pairs of shoes made from recycled plastic pulled from the beach. The planet-friendly range features the new slick Alphabounce+ running shoes, water bottles, training tights and backpacks. Adidas' Run for the Oceans initiative runs from June 8–16, 2019. To find out more info and to signup head to adidas.com.au/runfortheoceans.
Environmentalists from the Sierra Club teamed up with Pact underwear brand to form a bare-skinned project to lessen the use of coal, especially on university campuses where green-minded students are trying to be friendly to the environment. Beyond Coal is the resulting collaboration that sells a collection of comfy underwear with the goal of educating the public about the negative effects of coal on the environment, with hopes of changing the habits institutions that overuse the harmful substance. The ash released into the environment from coal is one of the leading causes of acid rain, smog, global warming and air toxins. 10% of the proceeds from the purchase of Beyond Coal undies goes to protests and petitions to convince universities to reduce their ever-increasing carbon footprint by minimising the supply of coal to power campuses. This generation of students is more conscious of the human impact on the environment, and the project simply points out that it is quite hypocritical for schools to be using so much coal power for students who are constantly searching for green alternatives. Help Beyond Coal prevent the dangerous effects of coal emissions by rocking a pair of pollution-fighting panties, starting at $20 for both men and women.
Pop quiz: what's 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, became breathable 2.4 billion years ago and is the focus of an upcoming exhibition at Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art? If you guessed 'air', you'd be right. Over a delightfully lengthy five-month tenure — from Saturday, November 26 until Sunday, April 23 — Air will be transforming the ground floor of GOMA into an interactive exploration of the "cultural, ecological and political layers" of the air we breathe. It's not easy to make physical art from something invisible. Still, the collection works of Ron Mueck (the staggering In Bed), Jonathan Jones (the feathered and multifaceted Untitled (giran)) and Anthony McCall (the beaming Crossing), plus new (and floating) commissions from Tomás Saraceno and Jemima Wyman alongside a monumental chalk cliffscape by Tacita Dean and dozens of other prominent artists will do so. [caption id="attachment_878453" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Anthony McCall's 'The Crossing'[/caption] The exhibit has been organised around five key themes, each focusing on details we can take for granted: atmosphere (the space between us and the cosmos), burn (the mortality and vulnerability of clean air), shared (the collective need of humans, plants and animals for the element), invisible (an exploration of the unseen) and change (the nature of our vulnerable, ever-evolving world). What's certain is you're set to leave this cultural outing with a more concrete understanding of the ethereal and vital element. 'Air' will be open daily at GOMA from Saturday, November 26 till Sunday, April 23, 2023. Entry to last session is 4pm. Head to the website to secure your ticket. Top image: Ed Mumford
When it comes to loving a particular film, not all affection is created equal. There's the type of fondness that inspires a fan to tell all their friends about something great that they've seen, and then rewatch it over and over again. Then there's the kind of adoration that becomes a fully fledged obsession. Kumiko (Rinko Kikuchi) fits the latter bill, but even then her fascination is a little more passionate than most. Joel and Ethan Coen's Fargo is the object of her excessive attention, and she doesn't just fixate over it, she believes it. It's not the bickering hitmen, inept car salesman and determined local sheriff — as anyone who has seen the blackly comic crime classic will be familiar with — that strikes a chord. Instead, it's the briefcase filled with money buried in the Minnesota snow. To understand why she's so intent on thinking the movie is more than fiction is to understand her largely solitary existence in Tokyo. Kumiko is 29 years old and still working as an office lady, a position her boss thinks she should've well and truly outgrown. Her mother only calls to scold her about her dismal personal life, and her only friend is her pet rabbit, Bunzo. So when she happens across a VHS copy of Fargo, embracing its tall tale as truth adds purpose to her days, and trekking across America to find the stack of cash it tells of becomes her destiny. Reality is actually at the heart of Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter, though the filmmaking Zellner brothers — writer, director and actor David and co-writer and producer Nathan — aren't just living this fantasy themselves. They're delving into an urban legend that sprang up around the death of a Japanese woman in the US, which was first chronicled in 2003 documentary This Is a True Story. Indeed, those exact words are the first seen in Fargo itself, sparking reports at the time that it was based on real-life circumstances. Keeping that in mind, Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter makes its own fable out of diving into the strangeness that can stem from both truth and fiction, as well as the tenuous relationship between the two. The basis for its premise aside, the film also offers an offbeat look at isolation, and the lengths someone will go to in order to escape into a dream rather than face their reality. There's no mistaking the magical realism at work in the Zellners' approach, as their gorgeous icy frames make Kumiko's quest seem larger than life, and the atmospheric score by The Octopus Project proves both haunting and hopeful. There's no avoiding the questions it raises about the protagonist's fragile, lonely state, either. Kikuchi plays the titular character with perfection, her performance as slow in building as the movie itself, but also as beguiling the longer she's on screen. It's one of quirks and details adding up to something you can't look away from, even if you're simultaneously enthralled and frustrated. That's the reaction Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter elicits: whole-hearted intrigue in its ideas, and traces of exasperation in its meandering. Well, that, and making you want to rewatch Fargo as soon as possible — and as long as you don't book a plane ticket to America to search for the briefcase yourself, that's not a bad thing.
The Melbourne International Film Festival is back for 2022, and has been screening flicks across the Victorian capital's cinemas since Thursday, August 4 — but that's not the only way to get your MIFF fix this year. Here's another: MIFF Play, the festival's digital offshoot, which is also returning for another spin. That's fabulous news both for Melburnians and for movie buffs interstate — and an unsurprising move given that in 2020, when it first made the leap to streaming the fest in a big way, it enjoyed its biggest audience ever. In 2022, MIFF Play will be available from Thursday, August 11–Sunday, August 28, and will show 105 features and shorts. Among the 77 features, there's plenty of highlights — and, like at all good film fests, something for all tastes. Starting with the local picks, you can explore the history of Melbourne on film thanks to classics Noise and Love and Other Catastrophes, or check out new Aussie gems including First Nations anthology We Are Still Here, Back to Back Theatre's Shadow and Petrol from Strange Colours filmmaker Alena Lodkina. Or, Spanish horror-thriller Piggy spins a savage coming-of-age tale, Neptune Frost serves up an Afrofuturist musical and Give Me Pity! parodies 70s and 80s musical variety television. Hit the Road marks debut feature from Jafar Panahi's (x) son Panah Panahi, while meta Filipino action film tribute Leonor Will Never Die won Sundance's Special Jury Award for Innovative Spirit, and Indonesia's Yuni picked up the Platform Prize at the Toronto International Film Festival There's also Mass, starring Jason Isaacs (Streamline) and Ann Dowd (The Handmaid's Tale) and set in the aftermath of a school shooting; New Zealand gem Millie Lies Low, about a uni student who fakes going to New York for a big internship; and existential drama The Humans with Beanie Feldstein (Booksmart), Steven Yeun (Nope) and Amy Schumer (Only Murders in the Building). The list obviously goes on — kicking off with a one-night-only session of Funny Pages, as produced by Uncut Gems and Good Time's Benny and Josh Safdie. And, on the doco lineup, Citizen Ashe steps into tennis great Arthur Ashe's life, Jane by Charlotte sees Charlotte Gainsbourg focus on her mother Jane Birkin, Navalny follows Vladimir Putin's political rival as he investigates his own state-sponsored poisoning, and We Were Once Kids looks back at 1995 indie hit Kids. Price-wise, you'll pay as you watch — all from your couch.
The latest work from Natalie Abbott is all about extremes. Big and small, toned and flabby — for something so diverse, it's nothing short of amazing that our bodies all operate in much the same way. In Maximum, Abbott is set to explore these differences and push them into the extreme. Joined on stage by a bulky male body-builder, this small lithe dancer will investigate the universal nature of the body and test its limits via the oh-so-gruelling medium of physical movement. Featuring dance, posing, lifts and even fake tan, Maximum seems more like a durational live art piece than a formal show. This is exacerbated by the fact it has nearly 10 performances in under two weeks. Yikes. Our muscles are hurting already (but we can't wait to see the results).
Before the pandemic, heading overseas for your end-of-year break — for Christmas, New Year's Eve, or just because you've got some time off — might've been part of your summer plans. That wasn't possible over the summer of 2020–21; however, it looks set to be back on the cards from this December, with Australia's Federal Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan announcing that the country's international border will open back up "at this rate, by Christmas at the latest." The Trade, Tourism and Investment Minister discussed international borders on Wednesday, September 22 as part of his National Press Club address, noting that "it's another reason why everyone should get vaccinated, and we have to stick to the national plan." Back in July, the Federal Government unveiled Australia's roadmap for dealing with the pandemic moving forward, which has been dubbed the National Plan to transition Australia's National COVID Response — and it includes allowing Aussies to travel overseas again without restrictions when 80 percent of the nation's eligible population has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. "We continue to do all that preparatory work to make sure that when those international borders open, hopefully at the latest by Christmas," Tehan continued. "Australians will be able to travel with a QR code linked to their passport, which will be able to show a proof of vaccination." Providing documentation to show you've been vaxxed is set to become a standard part of Australian life moving forward, and is also highlighted in New South Wales and Victoria's roadmap out of their respective lockdowns. Under both plans, looser restrictions will apply to people who've been fully vaccinated in both states, who'll need to prove they've been double jabbed. Also on Wednesday, September 22, NSW announced that it's about to conduct a trial of a vaccine passport that'll link COVID-19 vax certificates to the existing Service NSW app. Exactly how reopening Australia's international borders will work is yet to be explained, including where the nation will open up to — and if it'll reopen to all of the globe at once, or in stages, or via bubble arrangements. Earlier in 2021, Australia and New Zealand implemented the trans-Tasman travel bubble, allowing quarantine-free travel between the two countries; however, it has been suspended due to COVID-19 outbreaks since July, and isn't set to resume until at least mid-November. The Australian Government has also floated the possibility of opening a similar arrangement with Singapore — and extending travel bubbles to some countries, such as Singapore and places in the Pacific, is specifically mentioned in the nation's roadmap. Unsurprising, just when Australia will reopen its international borders has been the subject of much discussion over the 18 months since the Federal Government implemented an indefinite ban on international travel, only allowing Aussies to leave the country in very limited circumstances. Last year's prediction that opening up to the rest of the world wouldn't happen in 2020 proved accurate — and, earlier this year, Australia's ex-Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy (now the Secretary of the Department of Health) said that we might not be going anywhere until 2022. Back in May, the Trade, Tourism and Investment Minister and Prime Minister Scott Morrison both advised that mid-2022 was the likeliest time for reopening. With Australia's vax campaign gathering speed, Qantas and Jetstar have begun selling tickets for overseas flights for trips scheduled from December, demonstrating hope that the country's international travel rules could ease by then. That said, the airlines did start selling the same types of tickets earlier in 2021, working towards a planned October date that was subsequently postponed. At the time of writing, 48.5 percent of Australians over the age of 16 have had both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website.
Just when you thought drowsy Sunday afternoon grill-ups couldn’t possibly get any more deliciously lazy, Lynx comes up with a voice-activated barbecue, aka Smart Grill. That’s right, all you have to do now is kick back on your banana lounge and tell the barbie how you want your steak done. Well, that’s a slight exaggeration. But the MyChef interface promises to take a whole chunk of guesswork out of the process. No more black-on-the-outside-scary-pink-on-the-inside culinary disasters. Instead, the system links you to an online database providing all the information necessary for grilling perfection. Simply answer a couple of questions and MyChef advises you on the big decisions — when to turn, when to season and when to call it. At this stage, you'll have to stop resting on your laurels and do some flipping, salting and peppering, but the voice-controlled system does have the power to take care of other major jobs, such as getting the burners to optimum temperature. Plus, MyChef can keep you informed of developments via text messages and audiovisual cues through the companion app, so you can hang out by the pool, mix some cocktails and see to your guests without having to worry about messing up the steaks. And, just in case you indulge in one too many mojitos, misplace your phone and forget all about your feast, there’s an automatic safety shutdown mechanism. Having previewed at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, Smart Grill is currently in prototype stage. Lynx is hoping to have it on the market next year. ViaGizmag.
UPDATE, APRIL 4: Due to concerns around the coronavirus, Candyman will no longer release on its initially scheduled date of Thursday, June 11, 2020, with the film now hitting cinemas on September 24, 2020. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. For nearly three decades, horror movie lovers have fallen into two categories: those who've dared to say the word 'candyman' five times while staring into a mirror, and those who haven't. That's the kind of impact this spooky supernatural franchise has had over the years, with the film about a fictional urban legend almost becoming an urban legend itself. To the joy of slumber party-throwing teens everywhere, the 1992 original sparked follow-ups in 1995 and 1999 — and, thanks to a new 21-years-later third sequel, that's no longer the end of the story. Given that everything old just keeps coming back again, and that 90s nostalgia is the gift that keeps on giving, another Candyman flick was always going to happen eventually. If you're still a little wary — despite its cult status, the initial movie is hardly a masterpiece, and Candyman: Farewell to the Flesh and Candyman: Day of the Dead won the series absolutely zero new fans — Candyman circa 2020 has a few tricks up its sleeves. Firstly, it's produced and co-written by Jordan Peele, who adds another frightfest to his resume alongside Get Out and Us. Secondly, it's directed by Nia DaCosta, whose Tessa Thompson-starring 2018 film Little Woods deserved more attention. And last but by no means least, it features the OG Candyman, Tony Todd, among its cast. As the just-dropped first trailer shows, the new flick focuses on an artist called Anthony McCoy (Aquaman and Watchmen's Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), who decides to start exploring the Candyman legend through his art. His girlfriend Brianna (If Beale Street Could Talk's Teyonah Parris) thinks the story is just that, but, as bad luck would have it, the bee-covered figure starts wreaking havoc again. That's what happens when folks say his name while looking at their own reflection, after all. For Candyman aficionados, Anthony's own name should ring a bell — he's the son of one of the first film's main characters, which might explain just why he's so obsessed with the eponymous ghoul. That said, while he might think he knows what he's getting himself into, the movie's first sneak peek leaves no doubt that Candyman still knows how to unsettle and unnerve. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlwzuZ9kOQU After being delayed from its original release date of June 11, 2020, Candyman will now open in Australian cinemas on September 24, 2020.
All things come to an end, including beloved West End hangouts. Lock 'n' Loaded is shutting up shop and making way for something new, so they're ending their ten-year Boundary Street run in the expected fashion: with one last blowout. At Loose 'n' Loaded, bands, food and fun come together in the Sunday session to end all Sunday sessions — here, under this name, literally. Kicking off at 3pm on September 10, the free farewell party will mark the end of an era in style. The bar says they've poured 13,189 Bloody Marys over the past decade, and we believe them. Cheap Fakes, Som de Calçada, Age Champion and a secret headliner will crank out the live tunes for the occasion, while LnL themselves will hand out free nibbles (until stocks last). And, while you'll have to buy your beverages, there'll be plenty on offer, with the venue serving up plenty of their last brews.
The year was 1992. Aladdin, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Batman Returns, Lethal Weapon 3 and A Few Good Men ruled the international box office. Slipping into a habit and sliding in next on the list, becoming the sixth-biggest hit of the year: Sister Act. The film about singing nuns spawned a sequel, with word of a third movie floating around for years since — and, as everything from Mean Girls and Muriel's Wedding to Groundhog Day and Beetlejuice has also done, it inspired a stage musical as well. The theatre take on the Whoopi Goldberg (The Color Purple)-led film franchise debuted in California in 2006, then hit West End in 2009 and Broadway in 2011. Now, it's finally Australia's turn — including in Brisbane. After seasons in Sydney and Melbourne, Sister Act has locked in a stint at QPAC's Lyric Theatre in the River City from Saturday, February 8, 2025. The first movie was filled with songs like 'Rescue Me', 'My Guy' and 'I Will Follow Him', ensuring that its soundtrack was a smash, too, so the film was always primed to tread the boards. The Sister Act musical features original tunes, with Alan Menken (The Little Mermaid) doing the honours. Among the show's rewards so far: five Tony Award nominations and six Olivier Award nominations.Story-wise, the production follows Deloris, who witnesses a murder and has to go into protective custody. Her hideout: a convent. It's there that the nightclub singer finds a struggling choir, which she begins to help. For the Australian run, Casey Donovan (& Juliet) is leading the cast, while Genevieve Lemon (Billy Elliot) co-stars as Mother Superior. Images: Daniel Boud.
Edgar Wright must own a killer record collection. Weaving the perfect playlists into his films has ranked high among the British writer/director's trademarks ever since he made such a horror-comedy splash with Shaun of the Dead, and his own love of music is frequently mirrored by his protagonists, too. This is the filmmaker who set a zombie-killing scene to Queen's 'Don't Stop Me Now', and had characters wield vinyl as weapons. He made zoning out the world via iPod — and teeing up exactly the right track for the right moment — a key trait of Baby Driver's eponymous getaway driver. Earlier in 2021, Wright also turned his avid fandom for Sparks into his delightful first documentary The Sparks Brothers, because wearing his love for his favourite songs on his sleeves infiltrates everything he makes. So, the fact that his second film of this year is about a giddy devotee of 60s tunes really doesn't come as the slightest surprise. Last Night in Soho takes its name from an era-appropriate song that gets a spin in the film, naturally. It boasts a cleverly compiled soundtrack teeming with hits from the period, and has one of its central figures — called Sandie, like singer Sandie Shaw, who croons '(There's) Always Something There to Remind Me' on that very soundtrack — seek chanteuse stardom. As Wright is known to do, his latest movie also sports sequences that could double as music videos, and possesses a supple sense of rhythm that makes his picture virtually dance across the screen. It's a feature shaped by music, made better by music, and that recognises that music can make anyone feel like they can do anything. A partly swinging 60s-set thriller that adores the giallo films of the time with equal passion, it also flits between a cinematic banger on par with the glorious tracks it peppers throughout and the movie equivalent of a routine needle drop. Cilla Black, Petula Clark, Dusty Springfield: these are the kind of talents that Eloise (Thomasin McKenzie, The Power of the Dog) can't get enough of, even though she's a Gen Z aspiring fashion designer; they're also the type of stars that aforementioned blonde bombshell Sandie (Anya Taylor-Joy, The Queen's Gambit) wants to follow onto London's stages. Last Night in Soho starts with its wannabe fashionista, who's first seen donning her own 60s-inspired designs in her Cornwall bedroom that's plastered with posters and pictures from the period, and also dancing to 'Peter & Gordon's 1964 track 'A World Without Love'. Soon, Eloise is off to college in the big and, hopefully, working towards the fashion world. Then she meets Sandie, but only in her dreams. Actually, as she slumbers, she becomes Sandie — and navigates her chiffon-adorned quest for stardom, her breathy 'Downtown' covers and her thorny relationship with slippery bar manager Jack (Matt Smith, Official Secrets). Some of Last Night in Soho's most dazzling scenes play with these doppelgänger characters, and with the time-travelling dreamscape where they both exist, as if Wright is helming a musical. The choreography — both by McKenzie and Taylor-Joy, playing chalk-and-cheese roles, and by the film's lithe and glossy cinematography — is stunning. The effect is mesmerising, as well as whip-smart in tapping into the feature's ongoing musing on identity. This is also a horror movie and a mystery, however, so exploring what's behind these nocturnal visions is the primary focus. As a mousy girl bullied by her roommate (Synnøve Karlsen, Medici) to the point of leaping into the too-good-to-be-true Soho attic studio leased by the cranky but obliging Ms Collins (Diana Rigg, Game of Thrones), it's easy to see why Eloise flees into her dreams. But the who, what, why and how of it all — when and were clearly being answered already — isn't as simple as pure retro escapism. Eloise and Wright must share another trait, other than being musicophiles: nostalgia for a time neither was alive to see. In charting Eloise's journey from growing up with her gran (Rita Tushingham, The Pale Horse) to being haunted by evening reveries that begin to infect her days, Wright packs Last Night in Soho with Quentin Tarantino-level references to pop culture of the era. The detail, cast, songs, fashion and borrowings from Italian horror cinema's giallo genre — including vivid colours, plenty of blood and a love of yellow hues, because that's what giallo translates as — all nod backwards cannily. Visually, the film is a lavish wonder, in fact; Chung Chung-hoon, who regularly lenses Park Chan-wook's work (see: Oldboy, Lady Vengeance, Thirst, Stoker and The Handmaiden) luxuriates in sights, spaces, textures, mirrors angles, spins and swoops. Wright doesn't shy away from the 60s' sleaze, either, or from nightmarish men, objectified women and the lack of sexual agency for the latter. Scripting with 1917 Oscar nominee Krysty Wilson-Cairns, he confronts the seedier side of the period he otherwise places on a pedestal — but his first film about female protagonists is plodding rather than bold in trying to spin a feminist story. Last Night in Soho's lurid, adrenaline-fuelled shimmy with psychological thrills is still engaging, and gorgeous. Its eagerness to takes cues from Mulholland Drive is ambitious, although trying to emulate David Lynch rarely suits anyone. Still, there's more than a whiff of "is that it?" — and of cliche — to how it all culminates. Even with its sensational sense of style, that underwhelming feeling might've invaded more of Last Night in Soho if Wright hadn't cast his leads so well. The 60s icons he's enlisted, including Rigg in her last role, Tushingham and Terence Stamp (Murder Mystery), all play their parts in the plot, but this is McKenzie and Taylor-Joy's show. Again, the scenes that pose the pair as reflections of each other in 60s nightclubs are spectacular. The performances they provide to match share other echoes, too; one initially innocent and wide-eyed, the other confident and determined at first, they find common ground in their characters' vulnerabilities. Life is definitely making Eloise and Sandie lonely, but as the women behind them linger where the neon signs are pretty, things can be great — for viewers, at least. Their efforts won't make audiences forget Last Night in Soho's troubles, but the film is so much brighter with them in it.
"If I told you I was going to make a film about a poor black boy raised by a single mother struggling with addiction who has questions about his sexuality, you assume certain things about that film," says Barry Jenkins about Moonlight. He's right. But his second feature isn't the movie you might expect from that description. Watching his applauded and lauded effort — the winner of this year's Golden Globe for best drama, and an eight-time Oscar nominee — proves an experience in witnessing all of those assumptions melt away. Indeed, based on a dramatic work by Tarell Alvin McCraney, and set and shot in the same Florida area where both Jenkins and McCraney grew up, Moonlight is anything but your average coming-of-age movie about dire circumstances. Jumping between three chapters of a young black man's life, it charts the progression of a teased and taunted Miami boy nicknamed Little (Alex Hibbert) into the awkward, still-bullied teen Chiron (Ashton Sanders), and finally into hardened Atlanta drug dealer Black (Trevante Rhodes). As relayed with a commitment to reflecting reality and capturing a rare perspective — and an ability to render its central journey and the accompanying emotions like cinematic poetry — specific moments and interactions shape his growth, worldview and identity. With Moonlight now showing in cinemas, we chatted with Academy Award-nominated writer/director Jenkins about reactions to the film, the importance of representation, making immersive cinema, and more. ON THE REACTION TO THE FILM "The only way I can really sort of reason or rationalise it [the acclaim for the film] is that I remember first falling in love with cinema as a film student. And it wasn't like the big Hollywood cinema. It was mostly foreign cinema. And I remember watching films by Wong Kar-wai or Claire Denis or Jean-Luc Godard, and I remember thinking "wow, this is a world that I'm never going to visit. I'm never going to go to France. I'm never going to go to Hong Kong, and I certainly don't speak these languages." And yet, I could relate to the characters that made the worlds feel extremely small to me. I mean that in the best way — that I wasn't so far removed from these people, these characters. And so it just gives me just such an amazing feeling that now my film is doing the same thing for audiences, because the world this movie takes place in is very small, you know, and these characters are very specific to the time and place Tarell and I grew up in. And yet it's travelling far, far away from Miami and people are seeing themselves in the film, and it is lovely to give back to cinema what cinema, I believe, gave to me." ON THE RESPONSIBILITY OF REPRESENTING CHARACTERS THAT AREN'T OFTEN SEEN ON SCREEN "Here's the thing: there are just certain characters that aren't represented as often as others are in cinema. Or in arts and letters in general, I'll say. And even when those characters are present, they aren't centred. They aren't the focus of the narrative. I think because of that, when you have this kind of lack, when the character is present in the film, is centred, it inherently takes on added importance. Because people, I believe, are very hungry to see themselves represented. And so there was this feeling in the back of my head — I try to keep it in the back of my head — not that what we were doing was important, but that we had to get it right. Because it would do more harm, because of the lack of these centred characters, it would do more harm to finally present the character and get it wrong. You know, I didn't want to do an injustice to people whose stories align with Chiron's." ON CONVEYING CHIRON'S CONSCIOUSNESS — AND BLACK CONSCIOUSNESS — RATHER THAN JUST TELLING HIS TALE "We approached the film as a piece of immersive cinema. And part of that has to do with the structure of the film — because we're not telling a traditional narrative in a traditional format. We felt like it allowed us the space to do certain things that maybe wouldn't fit into a more traditional narrative framework. For us, it was really important to have the audience take the journey with Chiron, and we wanted the visuals to arise from the consciousness of the main character. If I told you I was going to make a film about a poor black boy raised by a single mother struggling with addiction who has questions about his sexuality, you assume certain things abut that film. If I'm working from the idea that I want to make a film that is rooted in the consciousness of the main character — you know, consciousness is a very beautiful, beautiful thing. And this is something I haven't talked about much, but I think the idea of black consciousness or the way black minds work is often not presented. Or not framed in the way that it actually exists. By which I mean, black people dream. We have dreams and we have daydreams and we have dreams when we sleep. And yet, I very rarely see the personification or the presentation of a black person dreaming in a piece of cinema, you know? And that's because we always tie cinema to the conventions of the story form, and not to the consciousness of these characters. But in Moonlight, the visuals, the aesthetic, the craft, arises from the consciousness of the character. So when Chiron is feeling disoriented, you will look directly into his mother's eyes, and her lips are moving but sometimes you can't hear her voice, and then her voice catches up — because the character is being disoriented. You know, we tried to take our cues from moments like that. And it was great, because as a filmmaker, you know that sound and image is the tool that carries both my voice and the character's voices. And that tool should not be beholden to an A, B, C, D, E progression of plot." ON INTERROGATING MASCULINITY AND VULNERABILITY "It was about, you know, reflecting those things in the story of Chiron — and I say reflecting because Tarell and I saw those things living our lives growing up in this place. And this aspect of vulnerability over time is denied to young men, is denied to young boys — and not only boys like Chiron, boys everywhere. What's that saying? 'Boys don't cry.' It was very important to us that this is the currency of this film — it's not a plot-heavy film. I think the story of this film traverses, or travels in, these gestures, quite a bit of these gestures between and amongst men. I've never seen a black man cradle a black boy in a film before. I just haven't. I haven't seen a black man cook for another black man in a film before. I've never seen a black man, I think, cook for anyone in a film before. And these are very simple gestures that, one, are very nurturing, but also, two, are implicitly vulnerable on the part of the person extending the nurturing. They were very important because again, they keyed into this depiction of the full humanity of these characters." ON FINDING THE RIGHT ACTORS TO PLAY CHIRON AT DIFFERENT STAGES "It wasn't this idea of a physical similarity. It was the idea of this sort of spiritual essence that could be viewed in the eyes of the characters. Which is really hitting on this idea of this feeling in their eyes, because of this book by [three-time Oscar-winning editor] Walter Murch that I've always loved called 'In the Blink in an Eye.' And so we just tried to find these guys that had the same feeling. Because, when you look at Trevante Rhodes as Black in the third chapter, it was of the utmost importance to me that you could see that little boy who played him in the first story. You could still see Alex Hibbert. I think we see people that we pass all the time on the subway or the bus or the sidewalk, who look like Trevante Rhodes as Black in the third chapter of this film, and we would never believe that this person would dance in a mirror in his elementary school when he was ten years old. But they're the same person, you know? And when we were casting, it was very important to us that we could see that continuum between the characters." Moonlight is now showing in cinemas. Read our review here.
After a successful run in Melbourne a couple of years back, the stage adaptation of Hitchcock's classic suspense film North By Northwest is coming for two weeks this November and December. Originally mounted by Melbourne Theatre Company and fresh from runs in Toronto and the UK, this theatre version the famous movie comes from director Simon Phillips and writer Carolyn Burns from MTC, and it looks to be as visually stunning as the original. For those who need a recap, protagonist Roger O. Thornhill is a savvy advertising exec who is kidnapped by gangsters who believe he's a man called George Kaplan. When Thornhill denies such allegations, the thugs relentlessly chase him across the country — and he meets a beautiful and mysterious blonde along the way. Starring Matt Day and Amber McMahon in the roles immortalised by Cary Grant and Eva Marie Saint, prepare for all of the thrills and spills of the classic film, with heightened suspense played out in live theatre. In true Hitchcock style, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat. North By Northwest hits the stage at QPAC's Lyric Theatre from November 27 to December 9, with tickets on sale from 9am on Friday, August 3. Image: Jeff Busby.
What's better than an annual ice hotel that lets frost-loving travellers stay in snowy surrounds every winter? A chilly accommodation provider that offers all of the above all year round. After falling into the former category since 1989, Sweden's Icehotel has made the leap to the latter. Yes, that means that you can now head to the village of Jukkasjärvi, check into rooms moulded from snow and ice, and enjoy keeping cool — in several senses of the word — every day of the year. Unsurprisingly, it's the world's first permanent place to stay of its kind, and there's more in store for anyone visiting the not-so-humble abode on the banks of the Torne River 200 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. The new venture covers 2,100 square metres and features 20 ice suites, a champagne ice bar and an ice art gallery. Among the sights you'll see within the appropriately named Icehotel 365's frosty -5°C walls: private saunas and spas for an added touch of warmth in such cold surroundings, and artist, architect and designer-fashioned rooms inspired by everything from fairy tales to dancing — and featuring ice chandeliers and winding ice staircases, too. Plus, the gallery also boasts the largest permanent art exhibition north of Stockholm. Stopping the year-round attraction from turning to slush is when summer comes and near-constant daylight hits is a solar-powered undulating roof that achieves a particularly impressive feat: harnessing the warmth from above to maintain the requisite cold state below. That makes the venue sustainable as well as icily spectacular, in case it needed any more drawcards. Icehotel's seasonal section will continue as normal, with the non-permanent part of the site built when the weather starts to cool each year and then melts when the sun comes out. And with good reason: in previous years, artists have crafted rooms that riff on Tron: Legacy, Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, 1920s cult horror film The Cabinet of Dr Caligari, UFOs and giant sea monsters, to name a few previous themes. For more information about Icehotel, visit www.icehotel.com. Images: Asaf Kliger.
Where in the world do you want to go shopping today? If you were asked that question a few years ago you probably would have scoffed. Now we do more and more of our shopping online, yet finding (and remembering) that little boutique that matches your personal taste from the other side of the world still isn't so easy. That's where District8 comes in. The site, which went live last week, is a compilation of boutiques from the best shopping districts in Sydney, London and New York City (Hong Kong and Paris coming soon). Want to see what the Upper East Side has to offer? No problem, you can browse through 30 different boutiques in the neighbourhood without getting out of bed. District8's fashion editor, Sara Kaplan, described the experience to Vogue as "that feeling you get when you spot a store while walking down a side street in Notting Hill, say, along with the ease of shopping online at one of the big e-boutiques". Clearly, this is no Amazon or eBay, as District8 is taking online shopping to the next, less mass-consumer level. District 8 creates a unique, online-meets-offline shopping experience. The easily navigable platform is a clever cross between Pinterest and Tumblr, which makes it totally tailor-able to the shopper. The motto? "The world has a new shopping district: yours." In a nutshell, District8 lets you digitally browse different locations, select your favourite shops, and add them to 'your district'. Conveniently for oft-frustrated Australians, you can limit your browsing to just shops that ship to your location. The site, which has scouted and sorted through hundreds of shops, includes detailed descriptions of every district and boutique so you know what you're getting into. Like the boho look? Go to Bondi. Want Trendy? Try Soho. By 'following' all your faves in a newsfeed-type setting, you can stay up-to-date on their latest news, collections and sales in one place. You can even safely unsubscribe from all those pesky mailing lists that clutter your inbox. The site also functions like a blog with tags and labels, so you can filter your search for shops based on categories like price, attire type and style. Sounds like it's time to build your dream district, whip out the plastic and get down to business.
Students from the University of Adelaide have created an odd new two-wheeled vehicle that seeks to solve inner city transport problems. The 'Edward', or Electric Diwheel With Active Rotation Dampening, looks like something out of an eco-friendly sci-movie. It also happens to share a resemblance with South Park's It, which Mr. Garrison created as an alternative mode of transport to airplanes for those willing to try anything but. The Edward can reach 40 kilometres per hour and at a mere incline of 12 degrees, and is the first diwheel vehicle (a vehicle with two wheels on the same axle with a cabin mounted between them) that uses stabilising technology that stops the driver from being rocked back and fourth as the vehicle moves. The vehicle is battery powered, meaning that it is incredibly environmentally friendly and also almost silent. Not to mention that its size would make it ideal for parking and driving down crowded and busy city streets. And while it may not be roadworthy just yet - the South Australian Transport Department recently rejected an application for the Edward to be driven on the streets - this contraption provides an interesting solution to the problems associated with traveling by car in inner city areas. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Uf6Gh-hPDeo Via [Fast Company]
Whether you're already heading out of town for the weekend or you're in need of an excuse to do just that, Nightquarter has you covered — in a brand new spot. Southeast Queenslanders are used to heading south, down to the Gold Coast, to hit up the weekend venue's market stalls, gigs and rides. But, as of late 2020, it has made the move north. You'll now find it operating on the Sunshine Coast. Nightquarter has become a permanent part of Kawana, so Brisbanites will need venture between Caloundra and Mooloolaba. Every Friday and Saturday from 4–10pm and every Sunday from 12–6pm, the event will keep doing what it has always done best, including serving up plenty to eat from its shipping containers. Sunday sessions are a new feature inspired by the move, making the most of the Sunny Coast weather — and, in the same spirit, patrons will also be able to while away the afternoon at the Eumundi Backyard space, where Eumundi Brewery's craft beers are on offer. The space is operating under COVID-19-safe requirements, and you can choose from one-off entry passes ($5) to six-month unlimited passes ($69). Tickets to some gigs cost extra, if you're keen on 80s tribute shows — or seeing San Cisco or Butterfingers. [caption id="attachment_788865" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Peter Wheeler Photography[/caption]
Running from October 16 through January 31, 2021, the annual Tarnanthi program brings together the best of contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art from around the country and showcases it across multiple Adelaide venues — with the largest exhibition taking centre stage at the Art Gallery of South Australia. The guiding theme for this year's edition is Open Hands, which pays tribute to the role of senior artists who share cultural knowledge with the younger generations; it also calls attention to the unseen cultural work of women in Indigenous communities. Including works from 87 artists, the exhibition features mother-daughter collaborations, grand installations, talks and tours — all of which aim to fully immerse visitors in the rich culture of Australia. Online art sales and other AGSA activations are on the docket, too. [caption id="attachment_792442" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Saul Steed[/caption] Images: Tarnanthi: Open Hands installation by Saul Steed
When the ABC announced that Spicks and Specks would return in 2024 after sitting 2023 out, it was big news, as anything to do with the hit Australian take on the UK's Never Mind the Buzzcocks always is. IRL, here's something just as exciting: the Brisbane-born and -based Not on Your Rider is also back for this year, although it didn't take a year off. On the agenda: playing a music quiz show filled with well-known faces live not just in the River City, but also in Sydney and Melbourne as well. And yes, the audience gets to play, too. You'll be peering at a stage, rather than a screen. You'll be answering questions, of course. And if it has you thinking about pub trivia nights, they don't include The Creases' Aimon Clark — who is also behind Isolation Trivia — hosting, or Patience Hodgson from The Grates and Jeremy Neale from Velociraptor captaining the two teams, let alone a heap of entertainment-industry guests. At past events, guests have included Murray Cook from The Wiggles, Broden Kelly and Mark Samual Bonanno from Aunty Donna, Boy Swallows Universe author Trent Dalton, Agro, Cal Wilson, Ben Lee, Steven Bradbury, Kate Miller-Heidke, Robert Irwin, Ranger Stacey, Craig Lowndes and Tim Rogers. Among the other musicians who've featured, Powderfinger, Dune Rats, DZ Deathrays, Ruby Fields, Ball Park Music, The Jungle Giants and The Go-Betweens have all had members take to the stage. Brisbane's 2024 season kicked off in mid-February, and now has seven more dates locked in for the rest of the year, all at The Triffid. Yes, given there's a Thursday, October 31 event, you can probably expect another Halloween celebration. And, come Thursday, December 19, a Christmas show as well. In Sydney and Melbourne, Not on Your Rider has a show in each city locked in. For the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, it's popping up on Thursday, April 18 at Brunswick Ballroom. And at Sydney's equivalent, head to Factory Theatre on Sunday, May 5. Here's how it works: Not on Your Rider takes something that everyone loves — showing off their music trivia knowledge — and dials it up a few notches. While the two on-stage teams are always filled with musos, comedians, drag queens and other guests, anyone can buy a ticket, sit at a table and answer questions along with them. The quiz element is accompanied by chats about the music industry, plus other mini games involving attendees. Not on Your Rider 2024 Dates: Brisbane: Thursday, April 4 — The Triffid Thursday, May 9 — The Triffid Thursday, June 13 — The Triffid Thursday, August 1 — The Triffid Thursday, September 12 — The Triffid Thursday, October 31 — The Triffid Thursday, December 19 — The Triffid Melbourne: Thursday, April 18 — Brunswick Ballroom Sydney: Sunday, May 5 — Factory Theatre Not on Your Rider's 2024 season runs on various dates until Thursday, December 19 at The Triffid in Brisbane, and on one-off occasions in Sydney and Melbourne. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the Not On Your Rider website. Images: Dave Kan / Bianca Holderness.
In Brisbane across the weekend of Saturday, August 31–Sunday, September 1, 2024, temperatures are set to hit the 30s. It's forecast to be 35 degrees to end winter, then 33 degrees to start spring. Here's one way to cope: by escaping into the cool confines of a cinema and seeing the latest movies for just $5 a pop. If you've missed a few flicks at the pictures lately because your wallet hasn't wanted to play ball, call Dendy Cinemas' latest special a case of great timing. For two days only, the chain is offering up discounted tickets that'll solve your problem. Across both dates, regardless of whether you purchase online or in person, you'll only pay $5 for your movie of choice at Portside and Coorparoo. Or movies. Picks include Alien: Romulus, Trap, Deadpool and Wolverine, Inside Out 2, Blink Twice, Kneecap, The Crow and It Ends with Us, so there's plenty to watch if you're keen to spend as much time in a darkened room as possible. The special isn't available for special events, Dendy Arts sessions or premium lounge sessions, but you're certain to find something to watch regardless. A PSA: book online and there will be a fee; however, your basic ticket will still just be $5. And if you'd a premium lounge seat, they're cheap as well at $20.
The owners of Burger Urge give their customers a much needed message: 'warning - Burger Urge is addictive'. Beginning as a humble store in Fortitude Valley several years ago, Burger Urge has now turned into something of a Brisbane burger empire, with stores in West End, St Lucia, QUT Gardens Point and QUT Kelvin Grove as well as the flagship Valley location. Their rapid growth can be attributed to the fact that their burgers are amazing, the chips are sensational, and their customers absolutely love them. But let’s go back to where it all began. The New Farm Burger Urge underwent a makeover a couple of years ago, transforming an endearing but somewhat dingy space into a stylish melting pot of exposed brick, polished concrete and red accents. There is now a fairly large dining area both inside and outside the store, suitable for singles, couples and groups who choose to eat in. The slick, stainless steel kitchen is manned by capable staff churning out favourites from the extensive gourmet burger menu, such as the Red Hot Chilli Pepper (a beef patty with cheese, salad and homemade chilli sauce), the Zorba The Greek (lamb patty, onion jam, haloumi cheese and salad), and the Bert & Berry (chicken breast, camembert cheese, salad and cranberry sauce). There are also three vegetarian options on offer, including the delicious Magic Mushroom (grilled mushroom, roasted capsicum, haloumi, pesto and salad) and buns are available in wholemeal and white options. It is an absolute must to order a side of either thick cut potato or sweet potato chips to accompany your burger. These chips are the stuff deep-fried dreams are made of. Several dipping sauces are available; the wasabi lime mayonnaise in particular is a cracker. Complete your meal with a soft drink, milkshake or BYO beer.
There's something about a trip up or down the coast that brings out the kidult in all of us, as any Brisbanite who's ever made a mini golf pitstop on their visits north or south already knows. Here's something new to add to your next Sunshine Coast jaunt: a day at Maroochydore's three-in-one Holey Moley, Archie Brothers and Strike Bowling precinct at the Big Top Shopping Centre. Two of those venues — Holey Moley and Strike Bowling — aren't new at all; however, when Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq joins them, it'll create the first Funlab precinct in Queensland. Funlab is the group responsible for these boozy yet nostalgic spots, a niche that's clearly been going well for it. But even Brissie doesn't boast this trio of chains in the one location. Opening on Thursday, December 2 (yes, just in time for Christmas), Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq will bring its circus-themed arcade bar to its second Queensland venue. That means more dodgem cars, air hockey, basketball hoops, virtual reality games and arcade games, including perennial favourites Mario Kart and Dance Dance Revolution. (And, yes, you'll now have another spot to try to win tickets, then use them to nab something from the OTT assortment of random objects and plastic toys at the prize bazaar.) If the food menu is anything like its Brisbane sibling, it'll focus on over-the-top novelty American diner grub — and fit right in with the circus decor. Think three-meat burgers, giant pretzels, and potato gems and garlic aioli that's served in a syringe. You get the idea. The drinks lineup will definitely follow suit, with a ridiculously involved cocktails such as the boozy strawberry shakes (topped with whipped cream and candy kebabs) and butterscotch schnapps concoction garnished with popcorn. And, back to the activities, Archie Brothers includes bowling as well — so you'll have two places to knock down pins. Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq is opening at the Big Top Shopping Centre, 20 Ocean Street, Maroochydore, on Thursday, December 2. Images: Funlab/Zennieshia Butts.
When Botanica: Contemporary Art Outside returns to light up the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens for another year, it won't just host its own standalone festival. The luminous mix of art and nature forms part of the broader Brisbane Art Design fest, which is also on the River City's agenda for 2023. As the name gives away, this event is all about both art and design, complete with that radiant patch of nature in the middle of the CBD, celebrating ceramics, a wearable art and fashion parade, and up-late gallery parties. BAD 2023 will run across three weekends between Friday, May 12–Sunday, May 28, with each three-day stint offering something different. Think of it as three programs in one, all focusing on its own part of the city, and spanning more than 150 events all up. First, the heart of town gets some love from Friday, May 12–Sunday, May 14, then it's the northside's turn from Friday, May 19–Sunday, May 21. Finally, the fest will head south from Friday, May 24–Sunday, May 28. Weekend one will indeed start with Botanica, and also feature the flagship Clay: Collected Ceramics at MoB — which includes five new exclusively commissioned works, plus plenty of pieces by Brisbane's best ceramicists. The CBD's time in BAD's spotlight will welcome pop-up art studious around the place as well, live projections at Howard Smith Wharves, and exhibition talks at Birrrunga Gallery and QUT Art Museum. [caption id="attachment_827605" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Finders Keepers[/caption] Then, for weekend two, the action focuses on Fortitude Valley, Newstead, Albion, Bowen Hills, Northshore and Toowong. The Finders Keepers markets are part of the bill, as is an In Conversation series hosted by Design Institute of Australia. A hefty highlight will be the weekend's Up Late parties, thanks to shindigs held after hours in independent art spaces such as FireWorks Gallery in Bowen Hills, POP Gallery and The Station Brisbane in the Valley, Superordinary at Northshore and Toowong's Land Street Gallery. Also, Fortitude Valley's industrial, product and architectural studios will be showcased on a walking tour, The Black Market Albion is doing live art and food trucks, and ceramics get pushed centre stage again via a workshop at Mas & Miek Ceramic House in Newstead. Last but by no means least, Brisbane's south gets its time to shine over the final three-day stretch, heroing South Brisbane, Woolloongabba, West End, Yeronga and Yeerongpilly — and specifically their creative outlets and fine art institutes. So, visits to Dead Puppet Society's space, Queensland College of Art at Griffith University, Metro Arts, The Paint Factory and Bag End Studio are all on the lineup. So too is Clayschool's latest alumni show and market. Like art that you can strut around in? That's where Fish Lane's fashion parade comes in. At Southside, the precinct will also host an art dinner. And if you're keen on a soundtrack, Echo & Bounce in Woolloongabba is welcoming in local DJs at a laneway soiree. Don't forget to hit up the closing party, too, at Yeerongpilly's Station Road Creative Precinct. [caption id="attachment_892874" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Botanica via Brisbane City Council[/caption] Top image: Andre Cois.
The Kid LAROI hasn't locked in exact dates for his rescheduled Down Under shows for 2024 as yet, after his first-ever Down Under stadium tour was postponed from February, and will now take place in October instead. You can still spend time with the Australian singer-songwriter before summer is over, however, thanks to the just-announced Kids Are Growing Up — because The Kid LAROI is getting the feature-length documentary treatment. Directed by Michael D Ratner, the film features interviews with The Kid LAROI, obviously, as well as Justin Bieber, Post Malone and more. Fans will know the general story that the doco follows, exploring how Charlton Kenneth Jeffrey Howard became a teenage star with global fame. But, as it charts not just the successes but also the pressures along the way — especially for someone Howard's age — this is a behind-the-scenes story. Arriving on Prime Video worldwide on Thursday, February 29, Kids Are Growing Up started filming before 'Stay' became a huge hit, and also covers Howard navigating his mentor Juice WRLD's death. The path from being an unknown talent to selling out arenas is also covered, as is mental health, love, and getting ready for The Kid LAROI's first studio album The First Time and corresponding world tour — plus the quest for happiness along the way. "I can't wait for audiences to see this behind-the-scenes portrayal of my journey, which perfectly encapsulates some of the most rewarding and challenging years of my life and career so far," said Howard, announcing the documentary. Director Ratner also helmed 2021's Justin Bieber: Our World, and founded OBB Pictures, the production company behind both Bieber's and now The Kid LAROI's films. There's no word yet when the 'Without You', 'Thousand Miles', 'Love Again' musician's Down Under shows will lock in their new dates, after they were postponed so that Howard could confirm a "really big surprise and special guest" — alongside ONEFOUR, who will also be on the bill — and also due to "a bunch of other logistical stuff". In the interim, he's touring Europe in April. Kids Are Growing Up will be available via Prime Video from Thursday, February 29. Top image: Adam Kargenian.
There's nothing better than receiving a "guys, you've gotta see this!" message in your crew's group chat. Have they found elusive cheap return tickets to Tokyo? Did they finally pop the big question? Is there a new puppy about to join their family? Big life milestones aside, heading off on a trip with your mates is the next most special thing. It's a chance to switch off, escape the big smoke and explore our beautiful backyard. And the cooler months are the time when we all need a break from the daily grind with a long weekend or a well-earned week away. If you've done the cosy cabin retreat to death, why not shake things up with a bit of adventure this winter? Hit the slopes, strap on your helmet and gear up for a chance to try something new, from thrilling aerial adventures over World Heritage sites to snowy escapes filled with snowshoeing and fondue-ing. Partnering with Hugo Boss, we've whittled down the endless list of Aussie adventures to just five that will leave you feeling amped up and ready to take on the world — much like its newest fragrance, BOSS BOTTLED Infinite. Go on, give these pulse-racing sports a go and you'll get a new perspective on the stunning land of Oz. [caption id="attachment_720491" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland.[/caption] CAPE TRIBULATION HELICOPTER AND LAND ADVENTURE TOUR It's not every day you get to knock not one but two UNESCO World Heritage-listed areas off your bucket list. But then again, this ain't your average adventure tour. You'll spend a jam-packed day exploring the best of tropical north Queensland, including the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation. The tour kicks off with a two-hour scenic helicopter flight over world-class reefs and cascading waterfalls before touching down in the oldest living rainforest in the world. Then, the choice is yours: spend your afternoon on horseback as you weave through the Daintree to the ocean's edge, or head straight for the treetops with a zipline experience. Head to Red Balloon to book. [caption id="attachment_720598" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Luke Tscharke.[/caption] CRADLE MOUNTAIN HUT WALK: WINTER OVERLAND TRACK It takes guts (and possibly a swig of gin) to sign up for a multi-day trek through the icy terrain of Tasmania's Cradle Mountain in the dead of winter. There's no wifi out here, friends. Just ancient landscapes, frozen lakes and long nights enhanced by a glass or two of Tasmanian wine. The eight-day Cradle Mountain Huts Walk winter overland track is one of the most challenging routes that the Tasmanian Walking Company offer, but it comes with plenty of rewards. Climb the peaks of Cradle Mountain, explore Lake Will and finish at Lake St Clair, Australia's deepest natural lake. [caption id="attachment_720745" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Skydive Noosa.[/caption] SKYDIVE NOOSA Jumping out of a plane at 15,000 feet is one way to get the blood pumping in the morning. But when you're freefalling over the sparkling Sunshine Coast, the terrifying drop can't be that bad, right? Strap in for an adrenaline junkie's dream with Skydive Noosa. The experience sees you spend 60 seconds in freefall — a minute the company describes as "life-changing" — before your instructor opens the parachute and you gently cruise your way to solid ground while soaking in the views. [caption id="attachment_720600" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kane Naaraat and Pinkbike.com.[/caption] BLUE DERBY MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDING TRAILS The historic town of Derby in Tasmania's north-east hasn't always been known for its 125 kilometres of purpose-built mountain bike trails. It was tin mining that first put Derby on the map before the tragic bursting of Briseis Dam ended that. The town has been revitalised since the opening of the first section of the Blue Derby Trail Network in 2015. Today it boasts trails to suit every experience level, meaning it has something for you and all of your crew. HOTHAM SHOWSHOE TO FONDUE If exploring Australia's mountains and sleeping under the stars are on your to-do list, this is the tour to make it happen. Say hello to Alpine Nature Experience's Snowshoe to Fondue trip, an unforgettable overnight adventure set on the outskirts of Victoria's Alpine National Park. You'll snowshoe your way to your tipi-style eco-village accommodation before spending a night sipping hot glühwein, dipping your way through gooey French cheese fondue and soaking in the warmth of the outdoor campfire. When the sun comes up, the crew will make sure you leave fed and watered with a hearty warm breakfast. Hitting that work-life balance is hard. But shutting your laptop, splashing on some new BOSS BOTTLED Infinite and getting out in nature will help you seize the day and live your best life. Top image: Snowshoe to Fondue Experience.
