If you are keen to kick off the New Year with a party, make Summafieldayze your destination. The team behind the 2013 edition of the dance/electro/hip-hop festival are going all out to make sure that this year starts with a bang. They have amassed a credible line-up of party starting artists that will get people bouncing, swaying and sweating all day long. Acts like The Chemical Brothers, M.I.A, Hot Chip, SBTRKT, Mark Ronson, Kimbra, Fedde Le Grand and heaps more will be playing to thousands of revellers at Doug Jennings Park at Main Beach. If your new years resolution is to have more fun, this should be the place where you put that plan into action.
October is made for weird, wild and wonderful movies filled with shocks and scares. 'Tis Halloween season, after all. So, the world obliges, including on screens big and small — and, in 2023, via the return of Australia's genre film festival Monster Fest, which is dedicated to flicks of the spooky, dark, twisted, offbeat and out-there variety. Monster Fest doesn't always pop up in the month when everyone is worshipping pumpkins and thinking about costumes; however, the timing obviously couldn't be more perfect. As it always does, it'll run long in Melbourne, where the fest was born back in 2011, then head to Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide for a shorter season in each city all on the same weekend. Melburnians, mark Thursday, October 12–Sunday, October 22 in your calendar for this showcase of strange, surreal, thrilling and chilling pictures at Cinema Nova. Everyone else, you'll want to make a date with Event Cinemas George Street in Sydney, Event Cinemas Uptown in Brisbane, Event Cinemas Marion in Adelaide and Event Cinemas Innaloo in Perth between Friday, October 27–Sunday, October 29. On the lineup: the latest and greatest in genre filmmaking, spanning horror, sci-fi, comedies with elements of either and all-round unnerving movies. Standouts titles on the 2023 program include Suitable Flesh, which stars Heather Graham (Extrapolations) as a doctor going mad, takes its inspiration from HP Lovecraft and boasts Joe Lynch (Creepshow) behind the lens; The Last Video Store, a horror-comedy set, yes, in one of the last video stores; and Norwegian flick There's Something in the Barn, about a gnome uprising that plagues an American family (including Party Down's Martin Starr) who've relocated to Scandinavia. Or, there's also sci-fi comedy Time Addicts, Australian slasher Bloodmoon getting a 4K restoration 33 years after its OG release and Trim Season's nightmarish trip to a weed farm. All of the above titles are doing the rounds nationally; however, with its extra days, Melbourne scores a few more highlights. When Evil Lurks and its demonic infection will launch the Victorian capital's leg of the fest. From there, that's also where Red Rooms, which recently won Best Feature at the 2023 Fantasia Film Festival in Montreal, joins the program. And, so does the kung fu-filled The Invisible Fright, a 4K restoration of Jim Jarmusch's (The Dead Don't Die) Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai and a 30th-anniversary session of ninth Friday the 13th entry Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday (screening on the appropriate date, of course). On the doco front, erotic thrillers are thrust into the spotlight in We Kill for Love, Satan Wants You looks back at 80s-era satanic panic and Enter the Clones of Bruce surveys the talents that endeavoured to replicate Bruce Lee after his death. Going all in on Bruceploitation, Monster Fest is also putting on a double of The Dragon Lives Again and Challenge of the Tiger, where Dracula and James Bond are among Bruce's foes. MONSTER FEST 2023 DATES: Thursday, October 12–Sunday, October 22 — Cinema Nova, Melbourne Friday, October 27–Sunday, October 29 — Event Cinemas George Street, Sydney Friday, October 27–Sunday, October 29 — Event Cinemas Uptown, Brisbane Friday, October 27–Sunday, October 29 — Event Cinemas Marion, Adelaide Friday, October 27–Sunday, October 29 — Event Cinemas Innaloo, Perth Monster Fest 2023 runs throughout October around Australia. Head to the festival's website for further details.
When Christmas hits each year, the Nundah Markets stay up late, swapping one of its usual daytime events for a twilight shindig. That kind of fun isn't just for getting festive, though. In 2023, it's also for celebrating the beginning of winter. Meet Nundah by Night, which will take place from 4–10pm on Saturday, June 10. On the agenda: shopping, eating, drinking and being merry midyear. There'll be quite the lineup of places to grab handmade items from — 120-plus stalls, in fact — with clothes, jewellery, art, homewares, soap, candles and all things edible available. You'll find gourmet foods on offer as well (including bites to eat while you're there). For your $3 entry fee, you can enjoy a stint of browsing and buying under the site's fairy lights at Nundah Markets' usual spot on Station Street. And, you can stop in at the Stone & Wood bar for a craft brew, too. Live music is also on the lineup across two stages, as is a petting zoo and roving performers. And if you're wondering what you'll be snacking on, cob loaves, South American barbecue plates, steamed and fried Tibetan momos, karaage chicken and vegan pizza are just some of the dishes on the menu.
For more than a decade, the Melbourne-based Human Rights Arts and Film Festival has been exploring human-rights issues through cinema. Exactly how this annual fest covers its subject matter and where it screens has varied over the years, however. Past iterations have included stints around the country, and some fests have solely remained in the Victorian capital. Across Thursday, May 4–Tuesday, May 9, 2023's lineup is only hitting cinemas in-person in Melbourne, but has a date with viewers elsewhere thanks to its online component. In its physical form, HRAFF opens with Kash Kash — Without Feathers We Can't Live, a documentary from first-time filmmaker Lea Najjar about her hometown of Beirut. For folks elsewhere, or for those who can't make it along on the night, it's one of the movies on the event's digital bill as well. From a lineup that includes work from Iran, Brazil, Ireland, Lebanon, Venezuela, South Sudan, Mexico, the US, Canada and more, Melburnians can also look forward to North Circular, which highlights the importance of music in culture in Ireland; Dark Days, telling the tale of a community living in New York City's underground train tunnels in the 90s; and Uýra: The Rising Forest, about trans non-binary Indigenous artist Uýra. From Venice 2022, Alice Diop's Saint Omer is an absolute must-see, with the documentarian drawing from true events to craft a drama about a young Parisian journalist and novelist attending murder trial, then wading through the complexities it surfaces within her own family history. In The Last Daughter, Wiradjuri woman Brenda Matthews charts her experience being taken from her family as a toddler, growing up with a white foster family, then being returned to her parents. And in closing night's Fashion Reimagined, designer Amy Powney's efforts to create a sustainable collection are in the spotlight. Viewers watching on from home can also enjoy The Endangered Generation?, which boasts narration by Laura Dern (Jurassic World Dominion) as it explores the fight against climate change — plus the world-premiere of We Eatin' Good, which sees Matisse Laida and Nisha Hunter get recipes for food and life alike from members of Melbourne's queer community. To take care of the 'arts' part of its name, HRAFF is hosting two exhibitions as well: Real Job, which ponders how the labour of visual artists is so often neglected; and A Wholesome Gang, a storytelling photo series by South Sudanese Dinka woman Awak Rech Kongor (and shot and edited by artist Joshua Sims).
If you're a fan of chicken wings, then you might already have July 29 marked in your calendar. It's your annual excuse to tuck into plenty of chook, because that's what National Chicken Wing Day is all about. At Pacific Concept's German-themed The Bavarian chain — at all stores around Queensland, in fact — you won't just find a whole heap of chicken, however. Wings will also be on special from 4–6pm for ten cents each. Yes, you read that price correctly. All wings come with buffalo sauce, and you can nab up to 20 at a time for just $2 — although you will also need to buy a full-priced drink. If you fancy more than 20, that's fine — you'll just need to get more beverages, which we're sure no one will be complaining about. And yes, given that July 29 falls on a Friday this year, this is a special worth knocking off early for.
If action-packed yet artful heist films are your thing — and why wouldn't they be? — Julius Avery's debut feature, Son of a Gun, is bound to tickle your armchair thrill-seeking side. Newcomer Brenton Thwaites is JR, a 19-year-old locked up for a minor offence. While inside, he is taken under the calculating wing of crime boss Brendan Lynch (Ewan McGregor). In an inevitably no-don't-you've-got-so-much-going-for-you! move, JR helps Lynch's crew orchestrate a daring prison escape — and is then invited to join in on the high-stakes heist they're planning next. Things, of course, turn progressively more dangerous. The film is all Aussie — written and directed by Avery (whose short film Jerrycan was a Jury Prize winner at Cannes), and shot in the disparate and desolate landscapes of Melbourne, Perth and Kalgoorlie. It's a nail-biting, chill-inducing thriller you'll need to psychologically prepare for. We warned you. We're offering competition winners the chance to see Son of a Gun with a friend at an exclusive preview screening on Monday, October 13, 6.30pm at Palace Centro (39 James Street, Fortitude Valley). To enter, click here. Son of a Gun officially releases in cinemas from October 16. See the film in style at Palace Cinemas. https://youtube.com/watch?v=eTOBcelRo9M
Think comics only tell tales of spandex-wearing supermen or dark and brooding caped crusaders? Think again. Firstly, the world of graphic art is much more extensive, despite what the majority of page-to-screen adaptations indicate. And, when it comes to LGBTI+ efforts, Australia boasts quite the growing catalogue. A selection of pieces pondering themes such as horror, fashion, narrative, identity, sex and sexuality form part of MELT Festival's Queer Comics, which graces the walls of Brisbane Powerhouse's Mosquito Foyer from January 25 to February 5. As curated by Brissie cartoonist Phoebe Ayscough, the exhibition steps through the diverse and downright trailblazing side of the popular artform.
You've already celebrated one new year in 2018, and now it's time to mark another — Lunar New Year, when the traditional Chinese calendar ticks over and the Year of the Dog begins. If your idea of honouring the date involves eating, then King Street have some delicious festivities that should get your tastebuds salivating. On February 16 and 17, the Bowen Hills precinct will be decked out with lanterns, play host to lion dancers, and serve up two feasts at Fat Dumpling and Banoi. Both eateries will have their own thing going because variety is the spice of life, particularly when you're getting festive. Head to Fat Dumpling if all-you-can-eat handmade dumplings takes your fancy, alongside a four-course meal that features shared plates of stir fried greens, spring rolls, braised pork belly, salt and pepper squid, fresh mango cake, two drinks of your choice (including booze) and more. That'll cost you $65, while Banoi's $30 option boasts a three-course Vietnamese dinner of spring rolls, whichever main takes your fancy (other than chicken curry), a Vietnamese flan and a glass of wine. Whichever you pick, booking in advance is essential.
It's no surprise that many of us are looking to upgrade our home comfort level at the moment. Aussie furniture brand Koala is keen to help you do just that with its cyber sale where you can nab up to 20 percent off mattresses, sheets, sofas, desks and armchairs to help you upgrade your pad or improve your night's sleep. A heap of products from across the brand's range are on sale from Monday, November 23 to Monday, November 30, including the popular Koala mattress, which you can score for up to $250 less than the usual price. Plus, if you order a bed today, you will be sleeping pretty tonight as Koala offers a free four-hour delivery service. Also on offer in the sale is the WFH desk, which is made in Ballarat from hand-sanded timber, easy to assemble and designed with home office use in mind. If you've found yourself working from home a lot more this year, you can pick up the desk for a sweet 15 percent off. Comfy Koala sofa beds, TV units, pillows, bed bases and more are going with a 20 percent discount, too, so you can give your whole house a makeover. And everything comes with a 120-night trial — though, it might be hard to give any of these up after four-months of comfort. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
What do Blade Runner, a computer being named Time magazine's person of the year, the first-ever loaf of ciabatta bread, Pam & Tommy star Sebastian Stan and Brisbane's main inner-city shopping strip all have in common? They all date back to 1982. And, that means that they all share a birthday this year — so you can consider the Queen Street Mall's big shindig a celebration of all of the above if you like. Of course, this day-long party is really a huge way to mark the fact that people have been hitting up Queen Street to shop, eat, drink and hang out for four decades. Yes, all of that is on the agenda. Come Friday, August 26, the mall is hosting a hefty street party complete with live tunes, a pop-up champagne bar, fashion workshops, colourful shopfront installations and a night market. Standing around outside Hungry Jack's isn't officially on the program, but you know you'll do that anyway. Vanessa Amorosi and Kate Ceberano lead the music lineup, with a free concert taking over a stage outside the Wintergarden from 5.30pm — just in time to stop by on your way home from work. And, from 10am, the mall will host style masterclasses with retailers such as Sass & Bide, Cue and Sheike, too, with runway shows popping up at 5pm, 6pm and 7pm. For bubbles to sip throughout the day, you'll want to head to Jimmy's On The Mall's pop-up bar, which is running right through until Sunday, August 28. Plus, those night markets will sprawl across Reddacliff Place from 4–9pm. The previously announced Colour in the City, a walking trail of brightly hued (and supremely photogenic) installations, will start on Friday, August 26 as well.
Sure, you’ve seen plenty of films before — but have you smelled one? Well, here’s your chance. The inimitable Odorama experience sends all kinds of scents towards willing nostrils, and it’s coming to Sydney's Golden Age Cinema. The film to smell above all others? Why, it’s John Waters’ Polyester, of course! The cult film to end all cult films, and one intended to be as picturesque as it is pungent, Polyester is the ultimate scratch 'n' sniff movie. When it was released in cinemas in 1981, audiences were famously given numbered Odorama cards to scratch at specific moments, unleashing a wave of odours — some pleasant, some not so. The full bouquet of Polyester features smells ranging from dirty shoes to pizza to new car. Starring the one and only Divine, the film offers a frenzied tale to match its fun gimmick, delving into the anarchic lives of the Fishpaw family. Francine’s world is falling apart, and trouble just keeps on coming. Her husband, Elmer (David Samson), is a polyester-clad pornographer having an affair with his secretary (Mink Stole). Her daughter, Lu-Lu (Mary Garlington), is pregnant by her delinquent boyfriend, Bo-Bo (Stiv Bators). Her glue-sniffing son, Dexter (Ken King), could possibly be the sought-after ‘Baltimore foot stomper’. Francine’s sole ray of sunshine comes in the form a Corvette-driving suitor, the dashing Todd Tomorrow (Tab Hunter). Since 1981's screenings of Polyster, Odorama has had few outings, so this is an very rare treat. Seeing and smelling Polyester takes cinema to another level. Steel your senses for a trip to the movies like no other. Warning: this may not suit those with weak stomachs. Polyster screens at the Golden Age Cinema on Friday, November 7, at 9pm. For more information, visit the Golden Age website.
Modern portrait photography and Cindy Sherman go hand in hand. No, you won't spot any quickly snapped iPhone pics in her portfolio. Since the 1970s, the New York-based artist has revolutionised the concept of photographic representation. Her photos don't just provide a likeness of a particular person, typically played by Sherman herself; they offer striking character studies that exaggerate and interrogate perceptions of identity. Working alone in her studio, Sherman experiments with costumes, prosthetics, makeup and digital photography to embellish and manipulate the type of images that no one else could create. It's little wonder, then, that the photographer has become a global phenomenon — and just as unsurprising that the Gallery of Modern Art has sourced more than 50 large-scale pieces to mount the first major Australian solo exhibition of Sherman's work in more than 15 years. Everything from her famous 'head shots' series to her collaborations with Balenciaga and Chanel from part of the hefty exhibition, as does a sizeable program of events and talks that will help audiences to get to the heart of this unique artist and her stereotype-busting ideas. Image: Cindy Sherman / Untitled #466 2008 / Image courtesy: The artist and Metro Pictures, New York / © The artist
Splendour in the Grass ain't all about dancing like a proper noob to That Song You've Been Waiting For and Only You Understand. There's plenty of brain food afoot, with a big ol' program announced for this year's colossal Splendour Forum. Opinionated tweeters, keep your pants on as the Silver Fox comes to Splendour for some hardcore hashtagged debate. Q&A's Tony Jones brings his hard-hitting swagger to the Forum for a special Splendour version of Australia's favourite "NO THEY DIII-IN'T" show on the Saturday. With an all-new Forum Twilight Film Festival, Tropfest live Q and A talks and the very first Splendour Late Night Comedy Club geared up to shake up the sets this year, you might even miss Interpol and Outkast this year. Dusk hours will see A Taste of Tropfest take over the Forum, a dandy little showcase of the film festival's most memorable awww and oooh moments. Comedy enthusiasts and those who enjoy a hearty, ugly-faced chuckle should stick around after dark, as Australia's top comedians (we're talking triple j favourites Matt Okine, Tom Ballard and Mel Buttle, Good News Week’s Claire Hooper, Spicks & Specks host Josh Earl, Greg Fleet and so many, many more) make y'all laugh until a little bit of wee comes out. Writers Marieke Hardy and Michaela McGuire bring their beloved literary salon 'Women of Letters' to Splendour with Lauren Mayberry (Chvrches), Courtney Barnett, Gossling, Jennifer Boyce (Ball Park Music), Nkechi Anele (Saskwatch), Liz Drummond (Little May) and musical comedians Alice Fraser and Genevieve Fricker — all narrating their "Letter to the Song They Wish They’d Written". Love a good keynote? You love a good keynote. Lindsay "The Doctor" McDougall chats to TED Talker Paul Gilding about our super messed up planet (or is it?) in 'Life on Earth in 2030 - Fun, Frazzled or F%*ked?'. There's a bunch more to squeal about at the Splendour website. The Forum is open 10am ‘til late daily at Splendour. If you haven't got tickets yet, the re-sale facility is open until 9am Monday 16 June through moshtix.com.au or phone 1300 GET TIX (438 849). Worth a shot.
There's usually only one problem with comedy festivals. Jam-packed lineups mean a wealth of talented folks trying to get you laughing, but we've all only got so much time. Of course, that's the best kind of issue to have, spoiling fans for choice — so, from the 100-plus names and events that'll grace Brisbane Comedy Festival in 2024, prepare to have plenty of options. Hosted by Brisbane Powerhouse each year, the month-long fest features Josh Thomas, Nazeem Hussain, Joel Creasey, Rhys Nicholson, Nina Oyama, Melanie Bracewell and Arj Barker, plus Reuben Kaye, Luke Heggie, Ivan Aristeguieta, Guy Montgomery, Schalk Bezuidenhout and the return of Sh!t-faced Shakespeare. Ed Byrne, Stephen K Amos, Wil Anderson, Lizzy Hoo, Felicity Ward, Tommy Little, Annabel Crabb, Peter Helliar, Dave Hughes, Mel Buttle, Akmal, Effie: they're all also part of the Brisbane Comedy Festival's 2024 celebration of chuckles and giggles. The Brisbane debut of Future Science Talks, which includes both scientists and comedians, is also on BCF's latest roster. So is the return of improvised whodunnit Murder Village, plus everyone from Fern Brady and Urvi Majumdar to Nath Valvo and Jenny Tian, and Connor Burns, Dilruk Jayasinha, Geraldine Quinn, Hannah Camilleri and Takashi Wakasugi as well. 2024's Brisbane Comedy Festival takes place from Friday, April 26–Sunday, May 26, filling not only New Farm's riverside arts venue with laughter, but also The Princess Theatre, Fortitude Music Hall and The Tivoli. As always, BCF is a something-for-everyone fest. If you can't find something to laugh at, you mightn't have a funny bone. The event's new additions sit alongside other already-announced highlights such as the annual Brisbane Comedy Festival Opening Gala; rom-com production 44 Sex Acts in One Week; Bob Franklin, Tony Martin, Bev Killick and Gretel Killeen teaming up for an Aussie Comedy Legends night; and James Schloeffel from The Shovel and Charles Firth from The Chaser bringing Wankernomics: Solutionising the Corporate World follow-up Wankernomics 2.0: As Per My Last Email Brisbane's way.
For much of the past year, Brisbanites have become accustomed to staying home — and to the Queensland Government telling them to do just that via lockdowns and other restrictions. But, another message has begun filtering through from the state's powers that be. Now, with life slowly returning to normal, the government is encouraging everyone to take local holidays. First, it announced a Cairns Holiday Dollars scheme, giving out 15,000 $200 vouchers for folks heading for a getaway in the tropical north region. Already in April, the government has advised it's handing out 36,000 more vouchers, this time valued between $100–$200, and covering Brisbane and The Whitsundays. And, it has just revealed that the Cairns scheme is being extended as well. Already have a tropical north holiday in the works, and didn't nab a voucher the first time around? Another batch of 5000 will be made available, all worth $200. This time, though, you'll need to already be holidaying in the region. And you won't have to apply or go into a ballot like last time, with the Queensland Government instead using Facebook's audience targeting tools to reach folks already vacationing in the area. If that's you, you could nab a voucher to use on tourism experiences in the tropical north region, which also includes the Great Barrier Reef, Port Douglas and the Atherton Tablelands. The vouchers can only be spent on tourism experiences and attractions, and will enable you to get up to 50 percent off your booking, maxing out at $200. And, they'll need to be used between Tuesday, May 4–Friday, June 25. When the first set of Cairns Holiday Dollars vouchers were announced, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said that the scheme could be extended, which is clearly what's happening now. If you'd rather plan a vacation somewhere else in the state, you might want to cross your fingers that other regions get the nod next — the Gold and Sunshine coasts haven't been covered by the program so far, for instance. The 5000 new $200 Cairns Holiday Dollars travel vouchers will be made available to tourists already in the region, for use between Tuesday, May 4–Friday, June 25. For further details, head to the Cairns Holiday Dollars website.
There are two ways to approach Sundays. You can either take the half-to-go view, leisurely and blissfully enjoying the fact that you've still got a whole day of weekend left. Or, you can go with a half-over outlook, feverishly making the most of every second you have because work looms the next day. Either way, Shuckin' Sundays can add to your fun. Each week, it's Victory Lane's excuse to dish up $2 oysters from 11.30am–5pm. At the Ascot spot on Racecourse Road, you'll want to head to the streetside oyster cart every Sunday during the mollusc-slinging window. The oysters are shucked fresh, and you can pair them with regular drinks from Victory Lane's menu or $15 glasses of Laurenti Grand Cuvee champagne. When it launched in early 2024, the event proved so popular that the oysters sold out in three hours. So, this is the kind of deal that you'll want to arrive early to make the most of. Live tunes will provide a soundtrack right through until the venue's 5pm closing time.
One of Sydney Festival 2017's most Instagrammed events was The Beach, an enormous ball pit inside a human-made cave, as created by Brooklyn-based design studio Snarkitecture. Tonnes of the city's residents spent at least some part of January diving, cannonballing and floating about in a sea of plastic bliss. Understandably. If you've been fretting about whether this kind of fun would ever come to Brisbane, here's your answer. Another ball pit, this time called The Ballpit!, is on its way around the country. It was first slated for Sydney, but now Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth have been added to the agenda. Like The Beach, it'll be a behemoth, made up of one million balls. Rather than filling up just a single space, they'll be arranged across several, creating a kind of playground — but for adults. On top of that, the balls are of the glow-in-the-dark variety, illuminated by LED lights that will pulsate to a soundtrack provided by some of Brisbane's best DJs. There'll also be an onsite cocktail bar, to let you rest and refuel in between dips and dives. Just when and where The Ballpit! will pop up is yet to be revealed, but expect it in early 2018. Entry will be via ticket, available online. Sessions are likely to sell out pretty quickly, so get in early by registering on The Ballpit!'s website. Image: The Beach, Sydney Festival 2017 by Shannon Connellan.
For music lovers, there's only one thing better than a festival filled with bands and artists taking to the stage to pump out tunes. That'd be a free music fest, of course. In 2021, SPRINGTIME announced that it'd be giving the Gold Coast exactly that; however, due to the pandemic, the festival's debut event didn't occur till 2022. That big premiere included a skate park, live art and performance installations, too — and, because it was unsurprisingly a hit, it's coming back in 2023. SPRINGTIME boasts another huge drawcard: those free tunes, skate displays and performances all happen by the beach over three breezy spring days. This time, mark Friday, September 1–Sunday, September 3 in your diary for a trip to Surfers Paradise, where you can enjoy the waves, bars and listening to a live soundtrack on the shore (and hopefully replace your Schoolies memories). On the just-dropped lineup: BENEE, Matt Corby and Bag Raiders, each headlining a different night, plus more than 25 other acts. While the focus is on Australian talent, New Zealand's BENEE marks the fest's first-ever international name, and will add another big gig to her year after playing Coachella. As it did in 2022, SPRINGTIME's live music will take over both beachside and streetside spaces around Surfers. There'll be two stages, also hosting Babe Rainbow, Boo Seeka, Eliza & The Delusionals, grentperez, Sunshine & Faith Disco Choir, Sycco and more. An array of talents will get painting live in front of SPRINGTIME's punters, and the Vans skate team will be back to get rolling. Also, after Shock Therapy Arts brought performance art piece The Cleaners to the fest last year, they'll return in 2023. Exactly what they'll be doing is yet to be revealed, but flinging paint-filled balloons with a giant slingshot will be hard to top. As for who you'll be seeing when, Bag Raiders will be doing a DJ set to headline the Friday, BENEE has the honours on Saturday, then Matt Corby on Sunday. The Gold Coast Music Awards lead into the fest as well, taking place on Thursday, August 31 — and celebrating spring's arrival just by soaking in the location obviously comes with the territory. "We are pumped to be bringing SPRINGTIME back in 2023 for more good times and an unmissable lineup of incredible homegrown artists, " said Festival Director Mark Duckworth. "We created this festival to showcase the very best of Australia's contemporary artists as well as to celebrate and support the musical talent right here in our own backyard on the Gold Coast. I am proud to say we were able to achieve that, and more, in 2022 and saw some impressive crowds come along to enjoy our free festival on the beach. We can't wait to welcome them all back this spring." SPRINGTIME MUSIC FESTIVAL 2023 LINEUP: Bag Raiders BENEE Matt Corby Babe Rainbow Boo Seeka Eliza & The Delusionals grentperez Sunshine & Faith Disco Choir Sycco Austin Mackay Bella Amor Betty Taylor Big Fuzz Bill Durry Chutney Dizzy Days Daste. Girl & Girl Greatest Hits Jason Van Miert Lemaire Matonii Sabio Mitch Santiago N'Jaane Pure Milk Radolescent The Vultures Taleena Tomorrow's Forecast YB. SPRINGTIME Music Festival will take place across the weekend of Friday, September 1–Sunday, September 3. For further information, head to the festival website. SPRINGTIME images: Bianca Holderness. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
It's been an explosive year for beer and brewing in Australia. Some old hands at the craft game sold to major international corporations, while new independent brewers continued to develop and expand. From fruit-infused sours to bold, hoppy IPAs, the discerning beer drinker has never enjoyed so much choice from both local and international markets. While there will always be a time and a place for a cold tinnie of VB, the following ten brews offer a range of flavours and unique styles to help you beat the heat this summer. The best places to find these beers, aside from the locations below, are specialist bottle shops. We've rounded up our favourites in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. XPA, PHILTER BREWING The XPA style is still somewhat unclear, though the acronym stands for Xtra Pale Ale, but in the case of Philter's flagship brew — a pale yellow, slightly hazy session ale — the 'Xtra' refers to both the light colour and the depth of flavour. Head brewer Sam Fuss has put the myth to rest that brewing is a man's game with her brewing prowess. Packaged in retro blue and white cans, Philter XPA opens with a delicate bouquet of floral and summer fruit aromatics, notes of rockmelon, passionfruit and mango. On the palate expect little to no bitterness with some citrus and notes of freshly cut grass, balanced out by a subtle wheat and honey flavour from its malt base. Philter XPA won Best Pale Ale at the 2017 Craft Beer Awards, after only being on the market for four months. Available in cans at Liquor Emporium, St Peters, and as Beer of the Month at The Botany View Hotel, Newtown. EARL PEAR, MERCHANT BREWING COMPANY In the height of the Australian summer, a 6.9% ABV Belgian-style blonde ale seems like a strange choice. But the boys over at Merchant have taken some bold steps to create one ripper of a beer. Blending the toffee apple malt flavour with extracts of pear and earl grey tea, this beer is inventive and exciting without being gimmicky. The beer pours slightly cloudy, is dark orange in colour and has a strong aroma of pears, apricots and a touch of citrus. The immediate flavour is pear with a hint of tart funkiness, then the sweet malt flavour gives way to a light kiss of floral citrus rounded out by the herbaceous bitterness from the tea. Incredibly well-balanced and surprisingly delicate, this beer would make a fine match for seafood or a fruit-based summer salad. Just like the monocle-sporting sloth on the label, this is a sophisticated and fun slow sipper for those looking for something a little different this summer. Earl Pear is currently available on tap at Quarrymans Hotel, Pyrmont. PASSION OF THE PUSS, WAYWARD BREWING CO Between Parramatta Road and the backstreets of leafy Annandale, Wayward Brewing Co's tap room is the perfect place for those seeking shelter from the hot days. Housed in a converted wine cellar, the brewery boasts an impressive selection of vintage 70s-style couches, a wall-mounted Royal Enfield motorcycle and a labyrinth of rooms and spaces catering to crowds of all sizes. Passion of the Puss is a new spin on Wayward's incredibly popular Sour Puss Raspberry Berliner Weisse, but this time it favours passionfruit and yuzu. The result is a a bright, aromatic brew with plenty of passionfruit notes giving way to the acidity of the yuzu to round it out. This is a great beer for those looking to get into sours as it has enough complexity and balance to remain refreshing all the way through the pint. Sitting at only 3.8% ABV, it's great for session, and a reliable hangover cure. Passion of the Puss is currently available in 640ml bombers from Wayward Brewery Co, Camperdown. WEST COAST IPA, BATCH BREWING COMPANY Pioneers of the Sydney craft beer scene, Batch Brewing Company has maintained a steady rise to prominence in inner west Sydney, the cradle of brewing culture in Sydney. While the current trend among brewers seems to be about who can brew the biggest, hoppiest and strongest IPAs, this little gem from Batch's core range is a reliable and refreshing take on the classic American style. Over the years, Batch have made many IPAs, yet this is the only permanent fixture and with one sip you'll quickly see why. The blend of three hop varieties with three base malts achieves a beer that is supremely well balanced. Pale gold and ever so slightly cloudy, this beer is dominated by tropical fruit aromas of mango and pineapple, followed by fresh citrus notes. A subtle but firm bitterness rounds out the finish and leaves you wanting more, and as it sits at an approachable 5.8%, why not have another? Batch West Coast is currently available in cans, bombers, growlers and on tap at Batch Brewery Company, Marrickville. DIPA, HOPE BREWHOUSE When getting into the boozier side of brewing, some beers tend to almost drift into wine territory. With this in mind, it's incredibly comforting to know that Hope's head brewer, Matt Hogan, is indeed a former winemaker. This training in nuance and delicacy translates in the surprising form of a double India pale ale — a style famous for its in-your-face flavour. Hope's offering, however, is a joyously well-balanced beer; it has a pale straw colour with a beautiful floral nose, citrus aromas, big tropical fruit notes and a piney, resiny mid-palate. The light malts offer some sweeter notes of honey and biscuit, while a substantial bitter finish makes this big bold beer a truly dynamic flavour experience. Sitting at 9% ABV this DIPA would be suited to fans of Pirate Life Brewing's Double IPA. Hope DIPA is currently available in cans at Liquor Emporium, St Peters, and on tap at the The Local Taphouse, Darlinghurst. SAUCY SAISON, SAUCE BREWING COMPANY Starting a microbrewery in a warehouse in Marrickville is a tried and tested idea. With the craft cradle booming, however, offering something new and exciting can be a challenge. Enter Sauce Brewing Company, a strong team of brewers covering a broad range of styles with charm and reliability. Oh, and did we mention their converted warehouse space features a large, family-friendly beer garden? This beer is a modern take on the classic French/Belgian style where the yeast is the dominant flavour. A special Belgian ale yeast gives smooth notes of banana and clove with some light fruity esters, followed by a twist of citrusy hop flavour, all wrapped up in a smooth honey malt. For those seeking a less hop-driven beer, that still has a bit of a kick to it this summer, treat yourself to something a little different, after all, 'tis the 'saison'! Saucy Saison is available from Sauce Brewing Company, Marrickville in cans and growlers, and in cans at Red Bottle, Sussex Street. SERPENT'S KISS, GRIFTER BREWING CO Pilsner is a style that many beer nerds will scoff at, as it's often thought of as a bland boring lager. In the current game, however, the ability to produce an interesting lager-style beer is one hell of a trump card to play. This is exactly what the team at Grifter has done. With five-plus years in the Sydney brewing scene, their approach to this widely loved style of beer is sure to appeal to a wide range of drinkers. This light-bodied, easy-drinking brew is the perfect, refreshing drop for a sunny afternoon, it has a low level of bitterness complemented by a delicate fruitiness from the inclusion of real watermelon. The watermelon flavour is light, natural and not overly sweet, resulting in a beautifully sessionable beer with a fruity twist. Available in cans from the Grifter Brewing Co, and currently on tap at the White Cockatoo Petersham. OXYMORON, BRUNY ISLAND Traditionally, darker beers are reserved for drinking in the cooler months, but tradition goes straight out the window with this beer made by a cheese company from Tasmania. The aptly titled Oxymoron is a sort of Swiss-Army-knife beer, in that it's perfect for a multitude of occasions all year round. The style is billed as a 'dark pale ale' so expect some robust roasty notes of smooth cocoa and a touch of spice from the use of malted rye. This is wonderfully countered by a superb blend of four Tasmanian-grown hop varieties offering floral, citrus and light peach notes, rounded out by a firm bitterness. This is a beer that will serve as a refreshing, yet smooth and rich, alternative to the plethora of American-style pales dominating the market at present. A relative newcomer to the scene, even moreso the mainland, Bruny Island's beers are most reliably sourced through its online store, but keep an eye out for them in your local craft pub, bar or bottle-o. NORMAN AUSTRALIAN ALE, YULLI'S BREWS About halfway down Crown Street in Surry Hills there's a small, unassuming restaurant with a well-deserved reputation for serving some of the finest vegetarian food in town. To make it even better, they're also responsible for one of the finest local drops on the market. Created by bar staff seeking an approachable and casual beer that could also stand alongside fine dining, Norman is a light, refreshing summer ale with notes of apple and pear, followed by a gentle, clean, bitter finish. The green and gold cans adorned with a charmingly idiosyncratic cartoon character make for a staple in any Aussie fridge this summer. Perfect for a barbecue or beachside evening picnic, Norman is a friend you want to have around again and again. Available from Yulli's restaurant, Surry Hills, on tap and in cans at The Clock Hotel bottle shop. [caption id="attachment_648241" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA[/caption] TONIC, DOCTOR'S ORDERS The Sydney brewing scene's equivalent of the eccentric cartoon mad scientist Rick Sanchez (from Rick and Morty), 'Dr' Darren Robinson has been brewing weird, wacky and wonderful styles of beer since 2009. The latest seasonal prescription from the Doc is a sessionable witbier with an impressive array of botanicals including orange peel, juniper berries, lemon myrtle and cinchona bark. This inventive blend of flavours is enough to make for a beautiful summer drop all by itself, however, it is also a brilliant mixer with your favourite gin. This is the second seasonal release of the Tonic, which was a massive success last year and sure to become a summer favourite of both gin and beer enthusiasts. Available from the The Wine Cellar, Newtown, in cans.
As if Kendrick Lamar shows weren't already hard enough to nab tickets to, it's just been announced that the West Coast king will play an uber-exclusive/downright splurge-worthy show in the Bermuda Triangle. Performing this Halloween alongside Calvin Harris and Ellie Goulding, Kendrick will take the stage in the spookiest place on earth as part of a three-day festival sponsored by Bacardi. Here's hoping he makes it back alive. Unless you're an heiress, Bruce Wayne or Tony Stark, The Bacardi Triangle festival is pretty completely unlike any festival you've ever been to. From October 30–November 2, 1862 guests will descend on the Caribbean via private chartered jet from London, New York and Los Angeles. And it's safe to say they won't be roughing it with a broken tent and goon bag. Festival patrons will be put up at the five-star Waldorf Astoria El Conquistador, treated to intimate poolside performances and then taken to a private island via boat for the main show. Usually we wouldn't even tell you about this kind of stuff. It just makes people feel bad. Who wants to hear about luxurious world-class performances on a private island while they're bunkered over a pint of draught watching young screamo kids at the local bandroom? It's cruel. But this time around, Bacardi Triangle are offering up free tickets. Bacardi are giving away all-expense paid trips and plane tickets to 12 Australian island-less peasants. The price of everything adds up to over $20,000 and the value of the stories you'll have is absolutely priceless. Just head along to their website, tell them in 25 words or less what the weirdest place you've ever partied is and you'll be in the running. Sure, the possibility of winning is sure to be smaller than the actual lottery, but you have nothing to lose and a literal boatload of free Bacardi and epic Kendrick times to gain. The full lineup is yet to be released, but rumour has that it will feature an Aussie electronic act. We'd tell you to keep your eyes peeled for further details, but if you're still reading this you've missed the point entirely. Kendrick Lamar. Bermuda Triangle. Private jets. Actual swimming pools full of liquor. Enter here. https://youtube.com/watch?v=B5YNiCfWC3A
"Once upon a time there was a little girl who was trapped. This is the story of her great escape." So begins the trailer for the latest version of a Roald Dahl classic, the book-to-stage-to-screen Matilda the Musical — and it's bringing its imaginative story about an extraordinary child, her impressive abilities and her horrible school to Netflix on Christmas Day. For the past few years, the streaming platform has been obsessed with one very particular golden ticket that Matilda the Musical springs from: the beloved works of British author Dahl. Back in 2018, Netflix announced that it was bringing 16 of the writer's classic novels to the service in animated form. And, it revealed that there'd be two new series from Taika Waititi based on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, too. In 2021, it also advised that it had snapped up the Roald Dahl Story Company (RDSC) itself. So, plenty of Dahl-penned tales are now getting the Netflix treatment, with the service's library set to expand in a big way. That spans everything from Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator, Matilda and The Twits, all as animated television shows, plus The BFG, Esio Trot, George's Marvellous Medicine, The Enormous Crocodile, The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me, Henry Sugar, Billy and the Minpins, The Magic Finger, Dirty Beasts and Rhyme Stew. Yes, it's a long list — and yes, Matilda the Musical is obviously on it. [caption id="attachment_873641" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical. Alisha Weir as Matilda Wormwood in Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical. Cr. Dan Smith/Netflix © 2022[/caption] If you've seen the Tony and Olivier award-winning show in theatres since 2010 — complete with original music and lyrics by Tim Minchin — you'll know what's in store. If you read the novel before that, you'll also already have plenty of fondness everyone's favourite book-loving schoolgirl with telekinetic abilities. In the movie as onstage, the narrative remains the same as Dahl's original 1988 text, but with songs and tunes that are all supremely on its wavelength. Once again, Matilda Wormwood (Alisha Weir, Darklands) is a curious, bright, quiet, observant and imaginative girl — and tiny — but has terrible parents (Venom: Let There Be Carnage's Stephen Graham and Amsterdam's Andrea Riseborough). So, she escapes into novels as they feast on TV and try to stump up cash via dodgy schemes. But that isn't welcomed by her mum and dad, in her first lesson in being bullied — something that, at school, Matilda will no longer stand for. [caption id="attachment_873640" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical. Alisha Weir as Matilda Wormwood in Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical. Cr. Dan Smith/Netflix © 2022[/caption] At Crunchem Hall, Matilda finds a source of support and inspiration in Miss Honey (Lashana Lynch, No Time to Die), but it's also where the star student meets another foe. That'd be the villainous Miss Trunchbull (Emma Thompson, Good Luck to You, Leo Grande), who is as mean as can be — and needs Matilda to teach her a lesson. Minchin's songs and lyrics make the jump to the movie version, of course, while Tony Award-winning director Matthew Warchus — who did the honours with Matilda the Musical on the stage — helms. And yes, this is the second movie based on Dahl's Matilda, after a 1996 version initially adapted the book for cinema (not as a musical, though), and featured Mara Wilson as the titular character. Check out the full trailer for Matilda the Musical below: Matilda the Musical will be available to stream via Netflix on December 25. Images: Dan Smith/Netflix © 2022.
This summer, your nearest beach will transform into an international food market. And it doesn't matter where you live — be it near St Kilda, Bondi or Broadbeach. How? As of now, Deliveroo, the food delivery service that transports tasty meals from your favourite eateries directly to your door, can travel to the sand. And, more specifically, right to your beach towel. That's right, next time you're sprawled out on the beach catching some rays and hunger pangs, you won't have to go anywhere. Jump on your phone, make your order and, somehow or other, your faithful Deliveroo driver will be at your side. Yes, this is going to be very, very interesting to watch on Bondi Beach on a stinking hot day in January when beachgoers number in the thousands and thousands. The food delivery app is now delivering to 150 beaches around the country, having recently launched its services in Hobart, the Sunshine Coast, Cairns and Newcastle. Deliveroo is now delivering to 150 beaches around the country. To see if it delivers to you, check your app.
The Brisbane International Film Festival is back again — with more than 100 films over 11 days, and with the Gallery of Modern Art at the helm. Organised by GOMA for the first time, this year's BIFF boasts local and international features, an array of special events and guests, and the Australian premiere of one of 2018's most controversial titles. The festival kicks off on Thursday, October 11 with the already-announced Celeste, an operatic drama set within north Queensland's lush greenery, before coming to close on Sunday, October 21 with Debra Granik's empathetic father-daughter drama Leave No Trace. In-between, high-profile highlights include Hotel by the River, the latest film by prolific Korean auteur Hong Sang-soo, and the Melissa McCarthy-starring Can You Ever Forgive Me?, a twisty effort about a real-life writing scandal. And then there's Lars Von Trier's ultra-violent The House That Jack Built, which is set in the 1970s, stars Matt Dillon as a serial killer, and prompted considerable walk-outs when it debuted at at Cannes. Other notable titles span festival circuit favourites such as Cannes Palme d'Or-winner Shoplifters, Nuri Bilge Ceylan's The Wild Pear Tree, and Jia Zhangke's crime romance Ash is the Purest White, plus Jafar Panahi's 3 Faces, Christian Petzold's Transit and the Paul Dano-directed Wildlife. This year's Berlinale Golden Bear winner Touch Me Not also features, as does the experimental and immersive Madeline's Madeline, the gloriously lurid Knife + Heart, and Guy Madden's entrancing The Green Fog. Or, there's M.I.A. documentary Matangi/Maya/ M.I.A., as well as a doco about the making of David Lynch's Blue Velvet — a nice remember that Lynch himself went to GOMA just a few years ago, in his first and only visit to Australia. On the local front, Australian standouts include the excellent Acute Misfortune, about artist Adam Cullen and journalist Erik Jensen; [CENSORED], featuring film clips excised by the country's censorship board between 1958–71; Terror Nullius, Soda Jerk's Aussie movie mashup; and Ghosthunter, which relays a strange tale that can only be true. Keeping things very local is The Picture Show Men, a documentary about the Sourris family — aka the folks behind New Farm Cinemas, the Elizabeth Picture Theatre and the potential new cinema slated for Red Hill. Events-wise, viewers can see documentary Ex Libris: The New York Public Library at a special screening at the State Library of Queensland, or catch a blend of virtual reality with live performance courtesy of the inventive thriller Frogman. Live music will accompany sessions of classics The Cameraman and The Passion of Joan of Arc, while the soundtracks of Japanese composer Teiji Ito will also be thrust into the spotlight. As previously unveiled, BIFF is training its gaze on movies either involving or considered inspiring by festival patrons Bruce Beresford and Sue Milliken — who've worked together on a number of titles, including this year's Ladies in Black. As well as featuring in an in-conversation session about their careers, they'll join Queensland Ballet Artistic Director Li Cunxin for a chat about Mao's Last Dancer, Beresford's adaption of Li's autobiography. The list goes on, with strands dedicated to African and Iranian cinema, plus a mystery movie in a secret location. With the latter, the details won't be revealed until you get there, but it's a new, buzz-worthy film that you won't see elsewhere in BIFF's 2018 program. The 2018 Brisbane International Film Festival will take place from October 11–21 at the Gallery of Modern Art, Event Cinemas Myer Centre, New Farm Cinemas, the Elizabeth Picture Theatre, Reading Cinemas Newmarket, the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Brisbane Powerhouse and the State Library of Queensland. For full program details and to buy tickets, visit the festival website.
If you've got hungry eyes for one of the most popular movie soundtracks of all time, have practised your dance moves with watermelons and fancy getting lifted up into the air Patrick Swayze-style, then make a date with The Triffid on Saturday, January 18. From 8pm, that's when Cheap Fakes will be living out every 80s film fan's romantic dreams and playing the entire Dirty Dancing soundtrack live. Obviously, you'll have the time of your life. Prepare to hear the Brisbane and Gold Coast band belt out their rendition of the Swayze-crooned and co-written 'She's Like the Wind', too. From the sultry sounds of Eric Carmen's 'Hungry Eyes' to The Ronettes' classic 'Be My Baby', if it's on the Dirty Dancing soundtrack, it'll be echoing through the Stratton Street venue. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lU9p1WRfA9w The gig will be accompanied by visuals from the movie and the appropriate dance moves, naturally — and dressing the part is encouraged. Tickets cost $35.10, and remember — no one will be put in a corner here.
Some days, don't you just want to grab a drink, make a few shiny spheres zigzag around a table, and enjoy the soothing blend of booze and pinball? If so, Melbourne's Pinball Paradise is your new hangout — as well as Australia's first dedicated pinball and whiskey bar. Lighting up the first floor at 213 Franklin Street, and accessed via a secret entrance in ground-floor bar Island Somewhere, Pinball Paradise is basically a beverage-serving pinball arcade for adults. And if that sounds like the kind of space that every pinball lover dreams of, wait until you clock the themed machines you'll be flipping balls in. Prepare for a pop culture bonanza, including Game of Thrones, Dracula, The Wizard of Oz, Dirty Harry, Terminator 2, Jurassic Park, Popeye, The Creature from the Black Lagoon and Maverick pinball. Ghostbusters, Back to the Future, The Addams Family, Star Trek — they're all likely to give your button-smashing, flipper-controlling fingers a workout as well, alongside a range of rare, classic machines. Drinks-wise, expect whiskey aplenty, with Japanese varieties a favourite. A selection of food is also on offer to help you keep up your pinball-playing energy levels. As well as becoming the new home of all of your spare change, Pinball Paradise might just be the future of your fun nights out. Indeed, with mini golf and arcade watering holes popping up around the country, simply going to a bar, grabbing a drink and chatting with your friends is quickly becoming a pre-2016 concept. Find Pinball Paradise on the first floor at 213 Franklin Street, Melbourne. Check out their Facebook page for more information.
Are you the kind of bar-goer who likes sipping drinks, hanging out with your mates and soaking in the atmosphere, but absolutely hates having to get up to grab another beverage? Even if you're not, every group has one. You know the type — they stay comfy when it's time for a refill, and they're always asking you to get their next round. The Parlour's new martini trolley experience solves this issue. No one minds nabbing a beverage for their friends, but this Wednesday–Saturday special means you won't have to. So, you'll sit in the Fortitude Valley bar, and you'll have your cocktails made right in front of you — without getting up from your seat — because the trolley brings the bevvies to you. Expect gin concoctions including your choice of martini— you can curate it however you like — as well as cocktails such as The Refined Australian (with gin, a vermouth blend, toasted macadamia and wattle seed, black walnut bitters, lemon zest and macadamia praline) and The London Cup (with gin, ginger-infused Pimms, clarified quince juice and orange bitters). Expect to turn your regular stint of drinks with pals into a far fancier experience, too.
While most people tend to give the coast a wide berth during the cooler months, there's something especially romantic about the beach on a winter's day. Whether it's the lack of people or the misty sky, winter on the coast is a time to indulge, with candlelit meals and long, warming lunches. Enter By the Sea, a two-day dining experience hosted by Halcyon House featuring a collaboration between chefs Danielle Alvarez and Andrew Milford. By the Sea will take place over two days, with a candlelit dinner on Saturday, July 5, and a long lunch on Sunday, July 6. Returning to Halcyon House following her sell-out gourmet weekend in 2018, Danielle Alvarez will unite with Andrew Milford, Executive Chef of Halcyon House's award-winning hatted restaurant, Paper Daisy. The event will showcase a rare city-meets-regional chef collaboration through a thoughtfully curated three-course menu. Upon arrival, guests can expect a glass of Roederer champagne, followed by a soulful menu made with seasonal ingredients that celebrate the region's range of local producers and sustainable food sources. Guests will also take home a Halcyon candle as a keepsake, perfect for remembering the weekend long after they leave. Located a scenic two-hour drive from Brisbane and just 15 minutes south of Gold Coast Airport, the boutique hotel and spa in Cabarita Beach is the perfect setting for a weekend of good food, delicious wine and quality time with family and friends. The weekend is also one of a handful of experiences planned throughout the year to mark Halcyon House's tenth anniversary. With limited seats available for both sittings, bookings are essential. For reservations and further details, visit the website. Images: Supplied.
Since 2010, Sydney has been home to the Korean Film Festival in Australia. While 2025's main fest hits the Harbour City in August, you can also join in without leaving Queensland. Your destination: The Strand Cinemas in Toowoomba on Sunday, September 14. One pivotal difference between the regular festival and the regional KOFFIA Touring Program, other than the fact that it's making the trip to the Sunshine State: head to the latter and everything that you see from its four-title lineup is free. Catch About Family, a dramedy about a chef discovering that he might have grandchildren — and The Noisy Mansion focusing on a tenant and her neighbours trying to discover why their building is plagued by strange sounds. Toowoomba audiences can also watch Forbidden Fairytale, about a children's book author who starts ghostwriting online erotica. Plus, Hear Me: Our Summer is one of the highlights, with the romantic drama co-starring former Iz*One member Kim Minju, remaking Taiwan's Hear Me and seeing a love story blossom via Korean Sign Language.
It kicked off more than four decades ago with one of the best horror movies ever made; however, the Halloween franchise has been through quite a few ups and downs over the years. Clocking up ten follow-ups and 11 movies in total so far, the slasher series initially created by the great John Carpenter has delivered excellent and terrible sequels, veered into remake territory, both killed off and brought back its heroine, and completely erased parts of its own past several times. And, like its mask-wearing villain Michael Myers, it always finds a way to go on. Since 2018's Halloween, that's been especially great news — with the Jamie Lee Curtis-starring, Jason Blum-produced 11th flick in the franchise proving a smart, thrilling horror delight, and ranking second only to the movie that started it all. Indeed, the film was such a success that two more sequels are set to come from the same team (aka Blum, writer/director David Gordon Green and co-scribe Danny McBride): Halloween Kills and Halloween Ends. Originally, Halloween Kills was due to hit screens last year, in October — when else? — but, as announced in 2020 by franchise creator John Carpenter, it moved back its release to October this year. That's now fast approaching, with fans soon able to make a return trip to Haddonfield. Yes, that means that Curtis' spirited Laurie Strode will have another altercation with her lifelong nemesis, too — because, when it's at its best, that's what this franchise is all about. Picking up where its immediate predecessor left off, Halloween Kills will also take a few cues from another movie in the series, as its just-dropped first trailer shows. Not one but two sneak peeks last year set the scene for the saga's 12th entry, but this full trailer dives deep into the storyline. Following the events of the last film, Laurie ends up in hospital with life-threatening injuries just as Michael starts stalking through Haddonfield again — which is the same storyline that Halloween II followed exactly 40 years ago. Thankfully, if the last flick is any guide, Halloween Kills shouldn't prove a needless remake. Green and McBride did a stellar job of nodding to the past while finding a new way forward with 2018's Halloween, after all — and leaving horror fans definitely wanting more. This time, too, Laurie and her daughter Karen (Judy Greer, Valley Girl) and granddaughter Allyson (Andi Matichak, Son) team up with other survivors of Michael's rampages and decide to hunt down their attacker. Check out the full Halloween Kills trailer below: Halloween Kills will release in Australian cinemas on October 14, 2021. Top image: Ryan Green/Universal Pictures.
Before writing anything else, we first want to promise that this article is spoiler free. So if you haven't yet had your weekly dose of Game of Thrones then you can still read on safely. Meanwhile, if you have watched Monday's harrowing episode, then you are probably in need of a pick-me-up. Whichever category you fall into, you will enjoy the following artworks from graphic designer Mike Wroebel, who this week provided us with a 20th-century reimagining of the epic HBO fantasy. "I grew up with Fresh Prince, Saved by the Bell," Wroebel says in an interview with the Hollywood Reporter. "I just thought it would be funny ... to appropriate the characters and turn them into something quirky that reflected their personalities". His contemporary appropriations are surprisingly uncanny, so if you are concerned about Joffrey suddenly becoming cool, then you need not worry. "I focused a lot on still making him look like a douchebag," says Wroebel. As you can see, he certainly succeeded. Other characters are also perfectly represented. The broody nature of Jon Snow is captured in his adoption of grunge, Jaime Lannister oozes cool in a Miami Vice suit, Brienne keeps her armour as she takes to the football field, and Sansa Stark portrays Saved by the Bell's Kelly as if she was her double. Our personal favourite, though, is Daenerys Targaryen. Of course there were no dragons in the 1990s, so obviously the Mother of Dragons becomes the Mother of Ferrets. Khaleesi? More like Cooleesi. Check out the others below. Via HuffPost Arts & Culture.
After shining a spotlight on films that engage with social justice and human rights issues for the past decade, the Human Rights Arts and Film Festival has announced yet another packed lineup of topical titles for 2017. Screening in Melbourne from May 4 to 18 before touring a selection of highlights to Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane, Perth and Hobart, HRAFF's tenth anniversary program boasts 32 features, 31 shorts, four forums and eight events in the festival's arts-focused component. HRAFF 2017 will open with The Opposition, the debut effort from Australian filmmaker Hollie Fifer — and a film tackling content so controversial that legal disputes and injunctions have attempted to block its release. Also screening at the Sydney Film Festival after its HRAFF berth, the documentary steps through the struggles of Papua New Guinea's Paga Hill community. In 2012, their homes were bulldozed by developers to make way for a luxury resort, sparking a battle of David vs Goliath proportions. Highlights from the rest of the program include closing night's Quest, which heads to HRAFF from Sundance to chronicle the efforts of the Rainey family to create a musical sanctuary for their North Philadelphia community, as well as the world premiere of the Australian-made, Manilla-set documentary Happyland, about street artist Kaff-eine and her team's attempts to turn slums into something creative. Elsewhere, Nowhere to Hide takes a paramedic's-eye view of Iraq, An Insignificant Man follows the politician becoming known as "the Bernie Sanders of India", Plastic China tells the tale of the recycling workshop workers and their families that literally live in mountains of plastic, and Tempestad goes on a road trip to explore the victimisation of women in Mexico. For those after a piece of gripping fictional filmmaking, War Book delves into British civil servants practising crisis protocol for a fictional nuclear attack on Mumbai. HRAFF also gives audiences the chance to catch up with other festival standouts that have already done the rounds, such as Berlinale's 2016 Golden Bear winner Fire at Sea, Cannes Film Festival's 2015 Palme d'Or recipient Dheepan, and the crowd-pleasing, Afghan rapper-focused Sonita. Going local, Australia's freshly minted best foreign language Oscar nominee Tanna, rousing documentary Zach's Ceremony and magical realist fable Satellite Boy also feature. With arts also part of the program, attendees can hear discover the experiences and knowledge of Koorie Elders, hear accounts from people detained while trying to seek asylum in Australia, and view portraits of the persecuted Rohingya people in Western Myanmar. The Human Rights Arts and Film Festival screens at Melbourne's Australian Centre for the Moving Image from May 4 to 18, Sydney's Dendy Newtown from May 23 to 27, and Brisbane's Palace Barracks from June 1 to 3. For more information, check out their website. Image: Zach's Ceremony.
If it's ethereal indie folk you're after, Dustin Tebbutt is your man. His music is described by his record label as "the music for your autumns and winters" which, in our opinion, couldn't be more accurate. The haunting isolation that comes through his high echoey vocals and crisp acoustic guitar certainly create feelings of isolation and introspection. Well, it's a good thing he's coming to town as the temperature is starting to drop. Tebbutt's latest national tour is for his latest EP, Bones, and it's gorgeous. First single 'Bones' is much like what we saw on debut EP The Breach; incredibly entrancing music that has the ability to transport its listeners far away from anyone or anything. If you enjoy the thoughtful sounds of Bon Iver or Sigur Rós, then Dustin Tebbutt is a local boy you definitely shouldn't miss. https://youtube.com/watch?v=OysNiYXWga0
The Heiresses, a Paraguayan film featuring a first-time actress and hailing from a debut feature writer and director, has emerged victorious at this year's Sydney Film Festival. After picking up two awards at this year's Berlinale — including best actress for star Ana Brun — Marcelo Martinessi's moving drama beat out 11 other contenders to win the 2018 Sydney Film Prize. That's no mean feat in any year, but given that this year's competition included Cannes prizewinner BlacKkKlansman; Sundance hits Leave No Trace and The Miseducation of Cameron Post; and fellow Berlin standouts Transit, Aga and Daughter of Mine, it's quite the considerable achievement. Telling the tale of Chela, who is forced to adjust when her girlfriend of more than three decades is imprisoned due to the couple's mounting debts, The Heiresses became the 11th feature to nab the festival's $60,000 award. Again, it's in fine company, with previous winners including On Body and Soul (2017), Aquarius (2016), Arabian Nights (2015), Two Days, One Night (2014), Only God Forgives (2013), Alps (2012), A Separation (2011), Heartbeats (2010), Bronson (2009) and Hunger (2008). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dD_LxrE9vVA Comprised of Australian artist and filmmaker Lynette Wallworth, Aussie actor Ewen Leslie (The Daughter), Filipino producer and writer Bianca Balbuena (Season of the Devil), South African film composer and songwriter Chris Letcher and Tokyo Film Festival programming director Yoshi Yatabe, the jury dubbed The Heiresses a "provocative, layered and surprising film". "The film we chose carried us with restraint and confidence into a world still shielded by entitlement even as its structures crumble," explained Wallworth at SFF's closing night ceremony. "It revealed a delicately unfolding courage to release what we cling to, even when it is all we know, and let change come — within ourselves and within this collective frame that we build, that is society." The fest's other big 2018 prize — the $10,000 Documentary Australia Foundation Award for Australian Documentary — went to Aussie doco Ghosthunter by another first-timer, Ben Lawrence. In the kind of story that has to be seen to be believed, the documentary starts out as a portrait of Sydney security guard Jason King and his after-hours gig as an amateur ghost hunter. That's not how it ends up, however, with the film evolving over the course of its seven-year shoot to delve into King's troubled family history.
Ever said something you wish you hadn't? Or gone home from a party when things were starting to get interesting? Like a swift punch to the stomach regret can be gut-wrenching. Whether it be utter embarrassment, not seizing an opportunity or ignoring your heart in favour of your head, regret is familiar to us all. Performance collective, The Good Room, have designed an event to exhibit regret in all of its cringe-worthy forms. In February the team asked strangers to anonymously share their biggest regrets. Over 500 secrets were collected and now, it's time for them to see the light of day as part of, 'I Should Have Drunk More Champagne'. In Metro Arts' basement you will find a tangle of tales from wallflowers, outspoken drunks and victims of lost love. Some will make you squirm, others will make you laugh but they will all remind you that each of us is prone to a good old face palm.
Over the past few months, the Queensland Government has been trying to entice the state's residents out of the house by handing out travel vouchers. First came 15,000 to use in the state's north, then 30,000 for Greater Brisbane and 6000 for The Whitsundays, then another release of 5000 for folks already holidaying in the Cairns region. That's a hefty batch of incentives — and more are coming. Next up: 30,000 vouchers for Queenslanders to put towards getaways on the Gold Coast. Whether you'd like to spend a few nights in Surfers Paradise, you haven't been to a theme park for a while or you're keen to explore more of what the Goldie has to offer, you'll be able to apply to nab one of the 30,000 $100 vouchers for tourism experiences and accommodation in the area. Like the past voucher drops, the concept has two obvious aims: enticing Queensland residents to go venturing throughout the state, and helping support tourism businesses. The new scheme, called Gold Coast Holiday Dollars, was revealed today, Thursday, June 3, by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk. And if you're wondering what you can spend the money on, when you can spend it and exactly how you can get your hands on the vouchers, that was announced, too. From 12pm AEST on Monday, June 7, the draw for the Gold Coast vouchers will be open to Queensland residents over the age of 18 — and you'll need to head to queensland.com to nab one. You'll register before 11.59pm AEST on Thursday, June 10 and, if you're successful, you'll be notified via text and email from Wednesday, June 16. As happened last time, there's likely to be more interested folks than there are available vouchers, so they'll be handed out at random. Those who manage to score a voucher will then be able to use it to book until Wednesday, July 21, for travel up until Friday, September 17. The vouchers can only be spent on tourism experiences — such as tours and attractions — and accommodation, and they'll enable you to get up to 50 percent off your booking, maxing out at $100. https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/1400182934020100104 When the Cairns scheme was announced back in March, Premier Palaszczuk said that it could be rolled out across the rest of the state if the vouchers are popular. That's obviously happened a few times now, but there's no word as yet about whether other parts of Queensland might be covered in the future. Applications for the 30,000 $100 Gold Coast Holiday Dollars travel vouchers will be open between 12pm AEST on Monday, June 7–11.59pm AEST on Thursday, June 10. For more information, or to apply during the aforementioned window, head to the Gold Coast Holiday Dollars website.
Before the days of Simple Plan and Avril Lavigne, the average '90s kid was prone to resort to the listening likes of Nada Surf for their teenage angst release. Along with their iconic 1996 anti-high school clique ballad 'Popular', this New York band has produced an incredible range of music in their 16 years of rocking that has capitvated an audience far beyond that of adolescent musos. As part of the Brisbane Festival, Nada Surf will be returning to Australia for the first time in ten years to showcase their recent work. The band has just released a new album 'The Stars are Indifferent to Astronomy', but has assured fans that their setlist will contain songs from their entire 16-year career. Nada Surf will be gone quickly, performing only three shows while on our shores. As a band that has produced a number of spotless indie-rock numbers, this rare experience is sure to be one of the musical highlights of the Brisbane Festival. Check out Nada Surf's 1996 hit 'Popular'
Australia has so much wonderful wilderness that spending a few days trekking up hills and down mountains is something everyone should try at least once. But doing so is not something that anyone should take lightly — from safety steps, to preparing food and drink, to having the ideal gear, being suitably prepared for your journey is a must before heading off. Since 1973, Macpac has been ensuring that both new and experienced hikers get the most out of their overnight treks, all thanks to a range of technical clothing and outdoor gear that can handle any type of climate. So, we teamed up with the brand — in celebration of the opening of its new Adventure Hubs — to help you get properly kitted out and put your plan in place. It's time to go trekking. HIKE AT THE RIGHT TIME It probably doesn't come as much of a surprise, but Australia's weather can be pretty temperamental. So when it comes to overnight hiking, it's important to choose a track that's going to have the right conditions for when you're planning to set off. Throughout the year, many hikes can change dramatically thanks to heavy rain or snow, with some becoming inaccessible altogether. Ensure that you're not caught out in the wrong place at the wrong time by researching exactly where you're heading — and by keeping an eye on the weather forecast so you always have the appropriate gear. Pack this: Less is Less Rain Jacket in women's and men's styles ($329.99) MAKE A PLAN AND STICK TO IT Whenever you set out for an overnight trip into the hills, having a travel plan that you can stick to is the best way to avoid a bad situation. There are plenty of things to consider but, if it's possible, you should seek advice from the local Parks Victoria office or experienced local hikers so that you know what to expect when you arrive. (Plus, this way you may get some hints to some epic sights and views.) But bear in mind that if conditions change and any dangers arise, it's better to scrap the plan and cut your trip short than to keep pushing forward. Also crucial: making sure that you leave a detailed itinerary for someone at home, who can then raise the alarm if you don't return by your expected time. Include where you're going, the route you plan to take and how long you think you'll be gone for. You can also head to the Macpac website to make use of its helpful planning tool. Pack this: Suunto Spartan Sport Watch ($699) TAKE EXTRA FOOD AND WATER — JUST IN CASE More is more when you're heading off on an overnight hike — that is, it's always advisable to take more food and water than you think you'll need. And while packing food can be a bit of a challenge, you'll be thanking yourself if you largely opt for lightweight, dehydrated and non-perishable foods. As a general guide, you'll want to try to consume around 12,500 kilojoules or more per day; for water, it's recommended that you drink 250 millilitres for every 30–45 minutes of hiking. In terms of what to pack, many hikers prefer simple products that are easily stored like muesli bars, oatmeal sachets and basic pasta. But if you're feeling ambitious, here are a host of awesome camp food ideas that you can try if you consider yourself a bit of a chef around the fire. Pack this: Hydration Reservoir 3L ($59.95) PICK YOUR GEAR WISELY Bringing all of the right gear is going to make your overnight hike smoother and more enjoyable — plus, you'll feel like a seasoned adventurer. If you're the forgetful type, pack early and have a checklist of all the things you know you'll need. One thing that people often don't remember is just how useful a headlamp is, especially if you've ever tried cooking in the dark with one hand occupied by a torch. That also means bringing along some spare batteries, while sunscreen, a first aid kit and a paper map are always good ideas as well. Next, you need to consider if the gear you currently own is going to be suited for the climate that you're heading into. Consider upgrading your tent, sleeping bag or winter clothing if you think things might get a little chilly. Many popular hiking destinations also have online packing lists, so checking them out will also help. Pack this: Petzl Headlamp ($59.99) LEAVE NO TRACE Everyone loves Australia's pristine nature, so we all need to work together to keep it that way. Always plan to leave no trace when you go out hiking — that means carrying your rubbish with you and staying respectful of any wildlife you come across. Also, make sure that you're aware of any local camping regulations or environmental concerns in the area. One particular warning to take note of: total fire bans. While everyone wants a campfire when they set up their tent for the night, bans are commonplace across Australia and must be followed. If having a fire is allowed, try to keep it small while also using fire pans or mounds, which help keep the flames safely under control. Pack this: Scarpa Kailash Boots in women's and men's styles ($399.99) DON'T FORGET ENTERTAINMENT If storm clouds roll through and you find yourself stuck in your tent for a few hours, you might find that the conversation becomes a little stale. That's why bringing some light form of entertainment to keep yourself and others occupied never goes amiss. A deck of cards weighs next to nothing and is easy to carry, while paperback books (or a Kindle), magazines and audiobooks are other great ways to pass the time before you can hit the track again. Top image: Visit Victoria.
Sweet birthday babies, the big dose of déjà vu you've long been waiting for is finally almost here. It's been three years since Russian Doll first brought its Groundhog Day-meets-The Good Place vibes to Netflix, proved a hit and got renewed for a second season — and if you've been hanging out to rehash the smart and twisty Natasha Lyonne-starring series all over again, it'll drop new episodes in April. Orange Is the New Black, Irresistible and The United States vs Billie Holiday star Lyonne plays New Yorker Nadia, who had a 36th birthday she'd never forget in Russian Doll's first season — although she desperately wished that she could. While getting stuck at a celebration in your own honour will sound like a literal party to most folks, that wasn't Nadia's path. So, after a couple of go-arounds, she went searching for answers. Indeed, being trapped in a loop featuring her closest pals (Sisters' Greta Lee and Werewolves Within's Rebecca Henderson), friendly ex (Yul Vazquez, Severance), wise aunt (Elizabeth Ashley, Ocean's 8), a cute roaming cat and a determined but neurotic guy (Charlie Barnett, You) who lives around the corner wasn't quite bliss for the show's acerbic, misanthropic lead character. Co-created and co-written by Lyonne, the one and only Amy Poehler, and filmmaker Leslye Headland (Bachelorette, Sleeping with Other People), the show's eight-episode first run was one of the highlights of 2019 — and fingers crossed that its second season proves the same in 2022. As well as announcing that Russian Doll's second season will drop on Wednesday, April 20, Netflix also released a first sneak peek at the new episodes, although little is given away story-wise. Examining fate, logic, life's loops and wading through limbo in a clever and compelling way is this show's wheelhouse, though — and proving dark, heartfelt, hilarious and inventive all at once, too, even though the do-over premise has become a well-established trope on both the big and small screens. So, if any series was well-placed to serve up a savvy second season — a do-over in a show that's already about do-overs — it's this one. NYC's subway system does feature prominently in the season two trailer, so there's one big clue. Also, Barnett is back as Alan. A graveyard is seen, too, as so is Nadia providing her latest advice: "when the universe fucks with you, let it." Plus, although they're not glimpsed in this first sneak peek, Schitt's Creek and Kevin Can F**k Himself star Annie Murphy and District 9's Sharlto Copley also join the cast. Check out the first teaser trailer for Russian Doll's second season below: The second season of Russian Doll will be available to stream via Netflix on Wednesday, April 20. Image: Netflix.
Activewear fans, we've got some big news: P.E. Nation is bringing back its warehouse sale — and it's all online. The athleisure experts hosted their first ever sample sale in 2016, and everything sold out in the first day. But, luckily, you don't have to worry about being crushed in a throng this year. You just need to have your mouse at the ready. Whether you're stocking up your own balcony-gym wardrobe (or WFH outfit, if we're totally honest) or doing a solid for sporty loved ones, you'll find an extensive array of swim, activewear, accessories, sweaters and jackets now available — and all for up to 60 percent off. That spans tops from $49, bottoms from $59, hoodies from $69 and jackets from $129 (because yes, cold weather really is just around the corner). Remember the age-old advice of when it comes to sample sales: you need to get in quick. Given the following the label has amassed since General Pants Co. design director Pip Edwards and former senior Sass & Bide designer Claire Tregoning joined forces, its functional, fashionable bits and pieces are bound to be popular. So, keep an eye on the website — and you'll need to be signed up as a member to access the deals.
We made it through 2020. We're in the throes of a new year, with two months of summer still ahead of us. The holidays are done and dusted, and as we get back into the swing of work it can be easy to get swept up in all the chaos and miss out on the good stuff — like outdoor cinemas, gigs, beer festivals and food pop-ups. It's time to make the most of the summertime events you probably meant to check out in 2020 but didn't. New year, new you. And that means getting outside and embracing the best of Brisbane life. Here are seven things to do this summer and autumn to help lift your mood. Get out there and enjoy it.
A spoonful of sugar isn't needed to make this medicine go down: the Mary Poppins musical is coming to Brisbane. Umbrellas at the ready for the most supercalifragilisticexpialidocious news that you'll hear all day, and all year as well, with the tale of the singing nanny set to take over QPAC's Lyric Theatre from Saturday, October 22. Mary Poppins comes to Brissie fresh from its Australian-premiere Sydney season, and marks a homecoming for two if its stars. Brisbane performers Stefanie Jones and Jack Chambers, who've been acting together since childhood, play Mary Poppins and Bert, respectively. Hailing from Disney and theatre producer Cameron Mackintosh, this current version of the show tells the same enchanting tale that everyone knows from the hugely popular, five-time Oscar-winning 1964 film — which, as well as inspiring this stage adaptation, also gave rise to big-screen sequel Mary Poppins Returns in 2018. Everything to do with the English governess harks back to PL Travers' books about the character, of course, and pop culture has been thankful for and downright delighted with her stories for almost six decades now. When it soars through its Brisbane season between Saturday, October 22–Sunday, December 11, local theatre fans can look forward to a new version of the show that last graced Australia's stages — and won eight Helpmann Awards — back in 2011. Since Mackintosh first teamed up with writer Julian Fellowes (Downton Abbey) to bring Mary Poppins to the theatre in 2004, the production has won four Olivier Awards and a Tony as well. A Cinderella musical is coming the city's way this winter, too — and Frozen started off 2022 as well — so it's clearly a great year to love stage musicals based on beloved tales. If you'd been crossing your fingers that a date with Poppins, the Banks family and their Cherry Tree Lane abode might also come Brissie's way, consider that wish granted. Consider 'A Spoonful of Sugar', 'Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious', the Oscar-winning 'Chim Chim Cher-ee' and 'Let's Go Fly a Kite' stuck firmly in your head until October blows in, too. Check out the musical's trailer below: Mary Poppins will play QPAC's Lyric Theatre from Saturday, October 22–Sunday, December 11. To sign up for the ticket waitlist, head to the musical's website — with presales from 10am on Monday, August 1 and general sales from 9am on Monday, August 8. Images: Daniel Boud.
There’s nothing better than local produce, espescially when it comes to art. Brisbane-based Reframed has long made it their agenda to keep eagle eyes on Brisbane’s best creatives and put them in a gallery space to show off their flying colours. Now, in their fifth annual exhibition,Reframed14, they’ve curated an array of styles and mediums across painting, photography, objects, installation and jewellery, all from artists with postcodes begin with four. The exhibition will feature the work of 17 artists such as Belinda Giddins, Tessa Brown, Ari Fuller, Kerryn Lane, and a dozen more. From the extraordinary and whimsical pen and collage images of Rachael Sedgman, to Alithea Josaphine's finely balanced blends of geometry and nature (pictured), Refreamed14 will be showing work that will please even the fussiest of artistic palate. The opening night for Reframed14 will be the 3rd of July, kicking off at White Canvas Gallery at 5pm. But if you’re not a party kind of person, then you’ve got until the 13th of July to check out the exhibition during the day.
Remember Who Framed Roger Rabbit? 1988's mismatched buddy comedy about a washed-up private eye (Bob Hoskins) and an animated rabbit was (and remains) a remarkable piece of cinema: groundbreaking in its special effects, hilarious in its comedy and note-perfect as a noir pastiche. It set the standard for movies that seamlessly entertained both adults and children alike, almost as if there were two separate audio tracks where only those over a certain age could hear the gags about sex, drugs and violence. Watching the trailers for Pokémon: Detective Pikachu, it was hard not to get excited that we might be on the verge of another Roger Rabbit-esque classic. Sumptuous special effects, a murky detective story, mismatched buddies and, as the pièce de résistance, master of deadpan Ryan Reynolds providing the voice of the eponymous Pikachu. Whether as a newcomer or a die-hard fan of the Pokémon franchise (which began as a video game and collectable-card craze), it seemed there was ample room for everyone to get beside the wise-cracking chubby rodent with the eyes of an angel and the mouth of a pirate. Alas, no. A convoluted plot, countless first-draft jokes and constant exposition dumb down the film to a level that even kids will find silly. It's not without its merits, but the overwhelming feeling is one of frustration at what might have been had they either embraced the world of Pokémon in earnest, or gone all-in on the detective story. Instead, it's a bit of everything and not a whole lot of anything. And to think, it all started so well. Detective Pikachu kicks off dramatically with a secret laboratory meltdown of sorts, prompting a prisoner escape, a car chase and a spectacular crash. The action then pivots to a delightful sequence involving a young man in a field, Tim (Justice Smith), attempting to catch and bond with a grumpy little Pokémon named Cubone. If the dynamics of human/Pokémon relations mean nothing to you, however, you'll quickly find yourself floundering from this point onwards, as the film all but glances over the details of what, for the franchise, were its core principles, rules and objectives. In fact, the film almost dismisses them entirely, setting its main story in Ryme City where the traditional sport of Pokémon combat is outlawed and humans and Pokémon instead live, work and play alongside each other as equals. Tim is there to finalise the affairs of his late father, Harry, whose death from the crash at the beginning of the film raises numerous unanswered questions. It's here where he also encounters Pikachu, and, to their mutual surprise, they discover they can communicate with each other. Pikachu has amnesia, remembering nothing except that he was Harry's former partner, and that he's convinced the death was fabricated. The stage is hence set for some classic sleuthing — but instead of going down that road, or even just following the story of the video game from which the film is based, Detective Pikachu simply jumps from one half-explored plotline to the next in a narrative that feels increasingly disjointed and rushed. It's such a shame, too, because in addition to the stunning visuals, Detective Pikachu boasts a pretty solid cast. Alongside Reynolds and Smith, there's Bill Nighy, Ken Watanabe and Kathryn Newton, all of whom receive either far too little screen time, or not nearly enough character development. Being a kids movie doesn't mean its leads have to be basic or cliched (consider, for example, the complexities of some of Pixar's leading characters). Yet here only Pikachu and Smith get anything even close to resembling a back-story. From the audible gasps at various stages of the film, it's clear there's some joyous content for the true Pokémon fans out there, but for the uninitiated Detective Pikachu doesn't offer nearly enough to sink your teeth into. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1roy4o4tqQM
In preparation for the release of her super-hyped, internet-breaking personal memoir Not That Kind of Girl, your spirit animal Lena Dunham has created a 12-part web series. Taking the whole 'voice of her generation' thing to its logical conclusion, Dunham poses as an agony aunt for people's personal and relationship problems and dishes out some stellar advice. Namely, don't date garbage men and don't yell 'vagina' in inappropriate public places (at home is obviously fine). Though Dunham has worked hard to differentiate herself from her on-air persona Hannah Horvath, it's interesting to note the similarities. For all her faults, the narcissistic Girls character is at least a feminist and a thinker. Here's how the two compare: Takeaway advice: Wear booty shorts and rock on with your bad self. Takeaway advice: Don't bother counting almonds, love your size and rock it in a romper. Takeaway advice: Don't waste time with bad friends. Takeaway advice: Don't fuck garbage people (or something like that). Takeaway advice: The personal is political. Write about whatever you want. Takeaway advice: Ask for help. Mental illness is just as serious as any other disease. Takeaway advice: Bullies are just sad ol' meanies. Takeaway advice: Eating your own stockings doesn't necessarily lead to lots of orgasms. Takeaway advice: Sometimes people just aren't right for each other. Takeaway advice: We're all going to die and Lena Dunham's life is much better than yours. Takeaway advice: We can all be successful, just make a fatty to-do list and hit that shit hard. Takeaway advice: Screaming 'vagina' in a chocolate store is apparently a bad thing. Not That Kind of Girl is released in the US on September 30. Expect overanalysed excerpts on Gawker not long after that.
Do you have a friend in Wellington who likes writing, and going to cafes where the baristas are knee-deep in tattoos and serve organic ethnic blend coffees? A friend who knows what a cold brew is, can stomach eating fine cuisine on a weekly basis, and gets enthused about going to the latest Bats plays and being 'in the know'? Would that friend enjoy getting paid to do all of the above and more? Well, good. We're looking for writers in Wellington city and need someone like your friend (you can subscribe here to read about it soon). So pass this message on to them and get them to send us through their name and wee bit of their writing (no personal postcard to your aunt or your Mills & Boon-esque short fiction piece, please) to wellington@concreteplayground.co.nz We'll be waiting.
Masters of putting unlikely things together, Ikea, have kicked off a smart design initiative to connect thousands of homeless dogs with potential families. Shelters are overcrowded and homestarters want that little extra addition to their pad, so the US-based Animal Lovers League and Singapore's Save Our Street Dogs have teamed up with the Swedish furniture giants for a very simple marketing project. Dubbed Home for Hope, the campaign uses the ol' cardboard cut out routine in the best possible way. Home renovators wander through Ikea displays picturing every thoughtfully-placed item in their own abodes (we've all entertained 'friends' around an Ikea display kitchen once, right?), a state of mind the furniture heavyweights are harnessing with life-size cardboard cut outs of the adoptable dogs merrily chillin' out in the lounge room. Customers visualise themselves 'completing their home' with throw rugs, patterned curtains and kitchen blackboards, then attach the same sentiment to a scruffy little face. https://youtube.com/watch?v=tBka2eF4OAI Ikea's team headed to the involved shelters, photographed the homeless pooches and created life-size cardboard cut outs of legends like Momo, Lady and Pampam. Then the team went to work, perching the 'dogs' on lounge chairs, begging at dinner tables, snuggling at the end of beds. Shoppers can scan the QR codes on the cardboard dogs' collars to register their interest in adoption, with each scruffy mutt having their own bio and individual video on the Home for Hope website (watching dogs have their own photoshoots is actually The Best Thing Ever). Alongside Ikea, Home for Hope will work with other big furniture players like Grafunkt, Foundry, Commune, Journey East and Noden Collective. The idea was borne from a lack of budget and a subsequent need to market the poor pooches creatively. "Home for Hope was borne out of a pressing issue," the foundation says. "With a limited budget, most animal shelters can only afford to voice their messages using social media. Problem is, their followers are pet lovers, and most already own pets. Hence, adoption rates are low." Via Fast Co.Design.
In celebration of her highly anticipated debut album Nightswim, Owl Eyes is back for a national tour throughout May and June. She’ll be visiting all major cities for the first time since her sold-out tour in May 2012, this time being the first opportunity for fans to hear her new material. Owl Eyes, otherwise known as Brooke Addamo, is no stranger to the stage, having supported the likes of The Wombats among others in the early years of her career. However, she shines in her own light, with her surprisingly mature and definitive sound crafting a well-rounded fanbase for herself. Her song ‘Raiders’ attracted mass attention, as did her pairing with Illy for ‘It Can Wait’ and her cover of ‘Pumped Up Kicks’ by Foster the People. Owl Eyes is bringing along some of the country’s biggest upcoming acts – Collarbones, heralding from Sydney and Adelaide, and Sydney’s own Mammals. The tour is sure to be a slice of homemade, synthpop heaven – grab your tickets before they surely sell out.
As much as we might want to be, we can’t all be on the other side of the world when 2015 commences — but we can certainly pretend we are. For the folks at The Fox, ignorance is bliss at London Calling, the best British celebration outside of Britain. Themed spaces get into the English groove, including the Tanqueray Centre Stage, Our House, The Pimms Palace and London Mega-Club, as well as the Kate Moss Rooftop Bar for high-fliers. Wearing the union jack and summoning your inner James Bond or Spice Girl is optional, but prepare for this party to leave you shaken, not stirred.
