Seven years after throwing their first fest, the outdoor music event meets weekend sleepover mix that is the Red Deer Music and Arts Festival is back for another round. Camping, creativity, alcoholic concoctions, and a cavalcade of live tunes and installations: they're all on the agenda in 2017, as is BYO booze, BYO couch and BYO brightly painted gumboots. Taking over the scenic 40-acre surrounds of Mt Samson in the D'aguilar Range on October 14, Red Deer will welcome a jam-packed lineup of national, local and up-and-coming bands, headlined by Sydney rockers The Preatures and Brissie's own The Kite String Tangle. They'll be joined by Kingfisha, Transvaal Diamond Syndicate, Alex & Bec Crook, MC Wheels, Band of Frequencies, Shag Rock, The COOL CALM, MEZKO and more. In fact, this year's fest boasts such a sizeable bill that they're setting up a third stage with an open mic, comedy, and other bits and pieces for the first time in the event's history. With a Space Oddity theme in full swing, attendees will also see astronauts, shooting stars and extraterrestrial life forms take to the main stage, along with belly dancing, meditation and hula-hoop workshops, the annual 'Fashion of the Fields' dance-off contest, and Red Deer's beloved sack-race. Markets and food trucks round out what promises to be much, much more than your typical music festival.
When an Australian actor makes it big, it can feel as if there's more than one of them. Joel Edgerton, who has been on local screens for almost three decades and made the leap to Hollywood with the Australian-shot Star Wars: Episode II — Attack of the Clones, is such a talent. He's usually everywhere and in almost everything (such as The Stranger, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Thirteen Lives, Master Gardener, I'm a Virgo, The Boys in the Boat and Bluey in just the past two years), and viewers would follow him anywhere. Dark Matter wasn't written to capitalise upon that idea. Rather, it hails from the page of Blake Crouch's 2016 novel, with the author also creating the new nine-part Apple TV+ sci-fi series that it's based on. But, streaming from Wednesday, May 8, 2024, the show's lead casting leans into the notion that you can never have too much Edgerton by multiplying him in the multiverse. For the characters in Dark Matter, however, the fact that there's more than a single Jason Dessen causes considerable issues. The series' protagonist is a former experimental physics genius-turned-professor in Chicago who's teaching disinterested students about Schrödinger's cat. He's married to artist-turned-gallerist Daniela (Jennifer Connelly, Bad Behaviour), a father to teenager Charlie (Oakes Fegley, The Fabelmans) and the best friend of award-winning college pal Ryan Holder (Jimmi Simpson, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia). And, he's been happy living the quiet family life, although pangs of envy quietly arise when he's celebrating Ryan's prestigious new accolade. Then, when another Jason pops up to pull off a kidnapping and doppelgänger plot, he's soon navigating a cross between Sliding Doors and Everything Everywhere All At Once. Everything is a multiverse tale of late; a mere few examples span superhero films and television shows Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, the Spider-Verse movies, Loki and The Flash; TV gems Fringe and Russian Doll; and the interdimensional animated chaos of Rick and Morty. Dark Matter is also a soul-searching "what if?" drama, exploring the human need to wonder what might've been if just one choice — sometimes big, sometimes small — had veered in a different direction. While a box is pivotal mode of transport like this is Doctor Who, as are all manner of worlds to visit, this is high-concept sci-fi at its most grounded. Neither version of Jason wants to hop through parallel worlds in the name of adventure or exploration — they're simply chasing their idea of everyday perfection. The first Jason chose Daniela and Charlie over devoting his existence to his career, round-the-clock work and only seeing the inside of a lab. Drugging and abducting him to reveal what could've eventuated if he didn't chart that path, the second Jason slides into his life to trade places. The everyman Jason unwillingly gets transported to a plane of reality where he's a famous billionaire — as well as the recipient of prizes and kudos, and also the creator of the technology that's allowing tumbling through the multiverse to happen — while the interloper Jason assumes his spot as a husband and dad. Dark Matter ties into the proverb "the grass is always greener", too, as both Jasons face the ups and downs of the road not taken, mostly for worse not better. For Jason One, if only verdant pastures were all that changed as he urgently attempts to return to his Daniela. With Jason Two's psychiatrist partner and colleague Amanda (Alice Braga, A Murder at the End of the World) for company, anything can await behind the infinite expanse of doors in a dimly light corridor that literalises the quantum state of superposition. Again, though, journeying to dystopias and paradises, and through disasters and futuristic havens while they're at it, isn't the point, even if each of the above makes an appearance. If you've ever felt as if you've been wading through copies of the life that you're meant to have, with nothing completely falling into place as it should, that's Jason One's experience as minor details morph from world to world. Edgerton's job, fittingly, contains multitudes. As the initial iteration of Jason, he plays thoughtful, considerate, dedicated to his loved ones and desperate to find his way back to them — all while tussling with the show's high-tech premise, often while stranded within that endless hallway. As Jason Two, he's a calculating imposter endeavouring not to get caught in the dream reality that he's ruthlessly stolen, but also arrogant in his confidence that he's pulled off his existential heist. A click on the soundtrack signals Dark Matter's jump between Jasons, but it needn't: Edgerton conveys their differences alongside their similarities like an artist painting the same portrait in dissimilar styles, and does so in one of the best performances of his career. Grappling with regrets, possibilities, the haunting knowledge that other futures are always possible and the distress of grasping that you mightn't have appreciated what you had until it was gone, Edgerton isn't the only actor excelling at doing double duty. For Connelly, in a show that spirits someone else off on a quest as another of her on-screen alter egos once was nearly four decades back in Labyrinth — a series where frosty climes and trains also play a part, bringing her last small-screen role on Snowpiercer to mind — shifts in body language say everything. And, they aren't the only cast members serving up layered performances. Braga, Fegley and Simpson are no slouches; in smaller but no less pivotal roles, neither are Dayo Okeniyi (Hypnotic) and Amanda Brugel (Parish). With Wayward Pines and Good Behaviour, Crouch's work has ventured from the page to episodes before — and with his involvement. His latest series has echoes within Apple TV+'s slate, too, because the platform's love of science fiction, twists and mysteries just keeps growing, including with Constellation already in 2024, Silo in 2023 and Severance in 2022. There might only be a lone idyllic realm for Jasons in Dark Matter, but that isn't the case for the streaming service's viewers. An absorbing and addictive trip that's also firmly anchored in relatable yearnings and musings, this Edgerton-led series is one to enthusiastically dive into. Check out the trailer for Dark Matter below: Dark Matter streams via Apple TV+ from Wednesday, May 8, 2024.
High tea and gooey cheese. Whatever time of year it happens to be, one of these two things is usually on offer at W Brisbane. The CBD venue's resident bar tends to rotate between the two, because your tastebuds like variety — and, now that spring is in full swing, it has unveiled its latest range of tiny bites to eat, cups of tea and optional cocktails. This Living Room Bar spread comes with an art theme, too, so it definitely isn't your ordinary high tea. Because design is a crucial part of the hotel, you can even paint your own panna cotta — and then eat it, obviously. Other menu items include cherry chocolate profiteroles, chocolate mousse tarts, mousse and lemon myrtle scones, as well as savoury options such as warm confit duck pie, lobster tarts, creamy truffle eggs, vegan scallops, and wagyu beef with pumpernickel and cream avocado. That'll set you back $65 per person, with the Eat Your Art Out high tea on offer from 10am–4pm every Friday–Sunday. And if you fancy getting boozy, you add a welcome champagne or cocktail — including the Oh My Goma, a vodka concoction that comes with an edible art print.
There's no one right way to experience SXSW, whether you're attending the Austin or Sydney version, but one of the event's huge highlights is its high-profile list of folks who get talking. This is the kind of event where you could be listening to Chance The Rapper one moment, then Black Mirror's Charlie Brooker the next, as everyone learned in the Harbour City in 2023. In 2024, it's also the type of festival where Lucy Lawless, Grace Tame and Tim Minchin will be chatting — plus Nick Kyrgios, Noémie Fox, Suzie Miller and Stephen Page as well. Another week, another lineup drop for 2024's SXSW Sydney as it moves closer and closer to its Monday, October 14–Sunday, October 20 dates. The event began revealing its program back in May, which was just the beginning. Another announcement arrived in June, then not one, not two, but three more in July — and also another, focusing on the free hub at Tumbalong Park, at the beginning of August. Then came more music acts and speakers, still in August, and now arrives even more talents that'll be part of SXSW Sydney's conference. [caption id="attachment_971189" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Paul McMillan[/caption] From just the people mentioned above, SXSW Sydney 2024 has warrior princesses, activists, comedians, sports stars, playwrights and the former Bangarra Dance Theatre Artistic Director on its bill. Among the highlights, Lawless has moved behind the camera for the first time on documentary Never Look Away about CNN camerawoman Margaret Moth, and will chat about her directorial debut — while Stephen Page and actor Hunter Page-Lochard (Critical Incident), his son, will explore whether there's a global market for First Nations content and artists. With fellow guests such as Ogilvy Global CEO Devika Bulchandani, Google Analytics and Google Voice founder Wesley Chan, Intel Corporation's first futurist Brian David Johnson, and MIT Technology Review CEO and publisher Elizabeth Bramson-Boudreau, everything from artificial intelligence in marketing and entrepreneurs keen to make the leap to America through to thinking about the future and new tech innovations will be covered as well. Also among the new additions: Fox joining Clare Stephens for But Are You Happy? live, Welcome to the Future! with Charles Firth and Dom Knight similarly taking to the stage, and sessions digging into neurotechnology and how to change habits. [caption id="attachment_971190" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ian Laidlaw[/caption] SXSW Sydney's latest 2024 wave expands a program that already features Australian filmmaker Warwick Thornton (The New Boy), Aussie composer Jed Kurzel (Monkey Man), Barbie executive producer Josey McNamara, Brave co-director Mark Andrews, Mortal Kombat helmer Simon McQuoid, human rights lawyer Jennifer Robinson, author Johann Hari, Australian race car driver Molly Taylor, pianist Chad Lawson, Aussie astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg, TikTok marketing head Sofia Hernandez and Academy Award-winning Slumdog Millionaire composer AR Rahman — among a hefty list of others. More lineup details will keep being revealed over the coming month and a half, with the full event set to span more than 1000 speakers, 60-plus tech exhibitors, over 200 artists, 120-plus games and more than 75 screenings. [caption id="attachment_971191" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jaimi Joy[/caption] [caption id="attachment_971192" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Paul McMillan[/caption] [caption id="attachment_967878" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jaimi Joy[/caption] [caption id="attachment_953724" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jaimi Joy[/caption] [caption id="attachment_923286" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brendon Thorne/Getty Images for SXSW Sydney[/caption] SXSW Sydney 2024 will run from Monday, October 14–Sunday, October 20 at various Sydney venues. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details.
How much of what we draw is memory and how much is imagination? It's a tricky question, that has no concrete answer, but it's something two Brisbane artists have been exploring for some time now. Michelle Roberts and Sony G Peters are diverse in their art practices, creating work and artistic theories that compliment as often as they clash. Their joint exhibition re: cognition/re-cognition delves into themes and concepts of subjective reality and autobiographical memories, through intense research of both artist’s behalf. Michelle Roberts is a PhD candidate at Griffith University Queensland College of Art, and she currently investigates the capabilities and influence memory and imagination can have on the future. Her counterpart Sonya G Peters is currently completing her Doctorate in Visual Studies at the same school, where she also teaches. Her current research focuses on the act of drawing, and the notions of what is remembered and what is imagined from an autobiographical perspective. Opening night for re: cognition/re-cognition is this Wednesday at 5pm, and you can catch the exhibition until the September 1. Don’t forget.
Not all travel has to include wild adventuring. Sometimes, we want to go an easy holiday that doesn't include hours behind the wheel of a car or pushing our bodies to their limits. Instead, we can explore a new city (or our own) at whatever speed we like — staying in a luxurious hotel, taking things at a stroll and taking in the best of local culture. This is what a city break is all about. To help you find the perfect one, our team of editors has curated these travel packages. Whether you're on the lookout for a city staycation or vacation, find your favourite option and book it through Concrete Playground Trips now. [caption id="attachment_683983" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Western Australia[/caption] STAYCATION IN PERTH AND ITS SURROUNDS Perth, glorious Perth. It's hard not to fall in love with this city when visiting. In fact, the whole state is a treasure trove of bewitching riches. Head to Western Australia's capital to find a thriving city full of great food and culture, surrounded by gorgeous natural landscapes that every Australian must see. And our Perth travel deal will take you to the best bits. We'll put you up in the Adina Apartment Hotel at Perth Barrack Plaza — in the heart of the city — and let you explore the local area at your own pace. We've also organised a day trip to Rottnest Island (friendly quokkas, pristine white sand beaches and clear blue water await) and a tour around The Pinnacles. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_890077" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Devang Sahani (Unsplash)[/caption] A LUXE BEACHSIDE BREAK IN ADELAIDE Adelaide's beachside burb of Glenelg is seriously underrated. Found just a 20-minute drive from the city centre, this area is home to long beaches lined with great restaurants and boutique stores. It's so close to the city but boasts the laid-back culture and energy of the best Aussie coastal towns. Our Adelaide city break takes you to this part of South Australia, with the Stamford Grand Adelaide hosting you for three nights. During this time, guests can explore Glenelg at their own leisure — potentially catching a tram into the CBD, too. The highlight of this trip that takes it from great getaway to something seriously special is the four-hour wild dolphin swimming tour run by a team of marine biologists. Jump in the waters — they'll have wetsuits for you — and get right up and close with these ultra-curious ocean mammals. It's an unforgettable experience. BOOK IT NOW. THE ULTIMATE HOBART FOOD, WINE AND ADVENTURE HOLIDAY There is so much to see and do when visiting Hobart, but we have somehow managed to pack a heap of its top experiences into one exclusive five-day holiday. Our trip will have you gliding over Wineglass Bay in a scenic flight that drops you off on Maria Island where you'll go on a guided wildlife tour, then feast on a gourmet lunch. On another day, you'll visit the one and only MONA. Slowly explore the museum, get a private tour (with tastings) at the onsite winery and have a lazy long lunch with even more vino included. It's a truly epic way to see the iconic museum and its grounds. You'll also get a couple days to wander around Hobart, checking out galleries, boutique stores and a heap of the city's brilliant restaurants and bars. BOOK IT NOW. A LUXURIOUS SYDNEY STAY You can easily do Sydney on a budget and have a wicked time. But sometimes you really want to treat yourself. That's when you book our opulent Sydney getaway. For two nights, two guests will stay at the five-star Crown Towers Sydney. Enjoy unbeatable views across the bay, taking in all the sites from day to night — either from your room, the rooftop pool or one of the seriously impressive on-site restaurants. With this deal, you'll also get $100 credit to spend however you like within the Crown Towers Sydney. Did someone say, 'massage time'? BOOK IT NOW. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world. Top image: Steven Groeneveld (Unsplash)
There's a reason that the Ekka comes with its own public holiday. Brisbanites are set free from work to rush to the Royal Queensland Show, fill themselves up with fried and sugary goodness, then brave the rides and gaze at the fireworks. Of course, there's much more going on than that, with everything from animal competitions to cooking demonstrations on the bill. Where else are you going to see a giant pumpkin, pat a pig, eat a strawberry sundae, listen to live music, crash dodgems, throw a ball in a clown's mouth for a prize and take home all the Bertie Beetles you can eat, after all?
It has been a busy year for film festivals in Brisbane. One was cancelled. Another was resurrected. The city's boutique international fest keeps doing what it does best, and plenty of other cultural-focused cinema showcases keep shining a spotlight on the best flicks specific countries have to offer. Now, add a virtual reality film festival to the mix. In fact, it's the city's first. Taking over the Brisbane Powerhouse from August 11 to 13, the Australian Virtual Reality Film Festival isn't like every other film fest, though. Yes, its inaugural program will screen short films, music videos and documentaries, all of which use VR technology and highlight the innovative work of emerging filmmakers; however, rather than sitting in a cinema wearing a headset, attendees will enter a booth and watch at their own leisure. Films include the robotics-centric I Philip, prison documentary Step to the Line, Japanese folklore-inspired music video Apex, an eyewitness view of history in Easter Rising: Voice of a Rebel, and hand-painted animation Dear Angelica, which features the voices of Geena Davis and Mae Whitman. AVRFF will also boast a program of talks and workshops for those keen to know more about the field, with the full lineup to be revealed closer to the date.
By their very nature, festivals are a choose-your-own-adventure experience. Event organisers carefully curate their top picks, audiences head along to whatever suits them best and few folks follow the exact same fest path. South by Southwest embraces the concept a little heartier than most, however. When you're putting on not just one festival, but several within that broader festival, audiences can hop between them, mix and match here and there, or choose the one that aligns with their favourite interests. Making its debut in October, SXSW Sydney is keeping the format that's served the event so well in its OG Austin home, where it has always been held — and only been held — until now. That's been clear from the lineup announcements so far, including in its first batch of speakers and musicians back in February, more music highlights and must-attend parties in May, details of its gaming strand in June, then two more rounds of speakers in July. Up now: the first nine movies that'll be playing at SXSW Sydney's Screen Festival. [caption id="attachment_911084" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jane Greer[/caption] Among its recent news, SXSW's Down Under premiere revealed that Queer Eye star Tan France would be among its speakers, plus Indigenous filmmakers Leah Purcell (The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson), Kodie Bedford (Mystery Road: Origin) and Jub Clerc (Sweet As). They fall into under Screen Festival, too. Also included: Osher Günsberg, who'll be on the SXSW Sydney bill recording an episode of his podcast Better Than Yesterday with a yet-to-be-announced special guest; Gone Girl, The Nightingale, The Dry, Big Little Lies and Nine Perfect Strangers producer Bruna Papandrea; and Binge's Executive Director Alison Hurbert-Burns. Film lovers love watching films, though. The SXSW Sydney Screen Festival isn't just about big-screen fare, covering both movies and TV — but its first round of titles are all features. In a varied bunch, one stars an Indonesian rapper, another is about Tokyo Uber Eats rider and yet another features viral Chinese dance crazes. American film Jamojaya is the flick led by Indonesian rap star Brian Imanuel, aka Rich Brian, enlisting him as an up-and-coming musician — and with Blue Bayou's Justin Chon directing. It's obvious what Tokyo Uber Blues is about, with the Japanese documentary's riding being done by a graduate film student with debts to pay. And Gagaland is responsible for that dancing in the street, and on social media feeds, which backdrops a boy-meets-girl tale. Also on the list: doco Anita, focusing on German Italian actor Anita Pallenberg, who was also a muse to The Rolling Stones; Cypher, a pseudo-documentary about rapper Tierra Whack; and The Last Year of Darkness, which dives into China's underground party scene with ample bass and neon. Rounding out the list so far: Japan's Plastic, which sees two teens go in search of psychedelic rock band Exne Kedy; France's Knit's Island, which is shot entirely in the DayZ video game (and from 963 hours spent in it); and Australia's You'll Never Find Me, about a caravan resident, a surprise visitor and a thunderstorm. Most of SXSW Sydney Screen Festival's announced titles have the tick of approval from other fests around the world, whether by screening at Cannes, Sundance, Tribeca, Sheffield DocFest in the UK, International Film Festival Rotterdam in The Netherlands, CPH:DOX in Denmark, Visions du Réel in Switzerland or elsewhere. As well as getting viewers watching movies and TV shows, with more titles to come — including First Nations Screen Festival programming by Winda Film Festival founder Pauline Clague — the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival will feature red-carpet premieres; digital and social content; an XR showcase; Q&As and panel discussions; parties and mentoring; and a screen market for industry deals. Free outdoor screenings are also slated, alongside indoor sessions at The ICC's Darling Theatre, Palace Cinemas Central and other yet-to-be-revealed venues. SXSW Sydney will run from Sunday, October 15–Sunday, October 22 at various Sydney venues, with the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival running from Sunday, October 15–Saturday, October 21 at The ICC's Darling Theatre, Palace Cinemas Central and more venues to be announced. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details. If you're keen to make the most of Australia's first SXSW, take advantage of our special reader offer. Purchase your SXSW Sydney 2023 Official Badge via Concrete Playground Trips and you'll score a $150 credit to use on your choice of Sydney accommodation. Book now via the website.
For Brisbane cinephiles, the last decade has just kept delivering — brand-new cinemas serving up more and more places to watch movies, that is. Angelika Film Centre is the latest, in the Australian debut of the New York-born chain, and also the brand's first-ever site beyond the US. And, for a week from its opening date of Thursday, August 24, it's doing discounted tickets. Located at Woolloongabba's South/City/SQ precinct, this sleek new moviegoing spot splashes its fondness for the big screen all over its walls, and not just thanks to eight said big screens. Murals and paintings celebrate everything from Labyrinth to Pulp Fiction, and Grease and Amelie as well, as you'll notice as prominently as the lobby bar's giant chandelier. So, that's what'll greet you before you get comfortable in one of the picture palace's seats and point your eyes forward, all for just $10 until Wednesday, August 30. On its opening lineup, Angelika Film Centre is showing a heap of current hits, including Asteroid City, BlackBerry and Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story. Yes, Barbenheimer, aka Barbie and Oppenheimer, is also included. Plus, viewers can check out advance screenings of likely future Oscar-winner Past Lives before it officially releases the following Thursday. The cinema's $10 deal does also include sessions in its three SoHo Lounge theatres — aka Angelika Film Centre's version of Gold Class. One caveat: if you purchase your tickets online, there is a booking fee. Still, this is a cheap way to see a movie and check out your new favourite cinema. Also, head along on Sunday, August 27 and you'll enjoy Reading Cinemas' National Cinema Day festivities, too, with $5 regular sessions for that day only.
The days of sipping a caffeinated brew and remaining blissfully unaware of its environmental impact are long gone; however, so are the days of cafes and other coffee-related businesses not doing their bit to help. From plantable coffee cups, recyclable containers and BYO mug campaigns to compostable coffee pods, mushrooms grown in discarded grounds and sheets made from repurposed coffee yarns, there's no shortage of eco-conscious coffee-related activities and products — and now, there's coffee cups made out of coffee waste as well. Meet HuskeeCup, a reusable alternative to ceramic drinkware that's made from recycled coffee husks. It's the brainchild of a group of Australian coffee industry professionals including Pablo & Rusty's Saxon Wright, and aims to reduce coffee-related discards in both growing beans and making hot cuppas. "We wanted to create a closed-loop system, so we thought if we could use waste from farming to create a cup we could solve problems both at the cafe and farm level," he told the Sydney Morning Herald. The cups are designed not only to do make a difference on an environmental level, reusing organic material that's usually thrown away, but to look good too — and keep coffee hotter for longer. They come in three sizes, with a one-size-fits-all saucer and lid. HuskeeCup has just finished a fundraising campaign to start production, exceeding its target more than five times over. The first orders are due in April 2018 — keep an eye on their website for more information. Via inhabitat. Image: HuskeeCup.
Winter's almost done with its chilly bullshit, but before you can pack away your woolies just yet, Brisbane's cooking up some serious comfort food that's much better enjoyed in the crisp, colder weather. There's a handful of deliciously food-focused events happening this week, so we thought we'd put them all on one table for you. Pick one course, or make a degustation of them all. Or you could just go and inhale some popcorn watching Sausage Party. Your choice.
The Gap's Sunlit Sounds Festival returns — and while it's a bit earlier in the year this year, and no longer has some festive cheer to spread as a result, it's still the same ace afternoon of food and music. The Gap Farmers' Market ceased operation at the beginning of the year; however the folks behind it have kept the music fest singing. Prepare to listen to live sets and eat at food trucks, because that's what's on the agenda on Saturday, September 1 from 3–9pm. For the musical part of the proceedings, Babaganouj, Kellie Lloyd, Asha Jefferies, Sunken Hill and Georgie Neilse are on the bill, while — for an extra fee — Adele Pickvance, Ash Kerly, Ben Ely, Kristin Black and Laura Hill are taking part in a songwriter's workshop. When you're not catching some tunes, you'll be munching from an array of meals-on-wheels vans. Entry costs $5, buying a tasty feast will likely cost whatever you have in your wallet, and the sense of merriment you'll be enjoying is an added bonus.
How best to celebrate the impending arrival of gin season? With the launch of what might just be the most fashionable gin going around, of course. Developed by famed UK bartender Tony Conigliaro (London's Colebrooke Row, Bar Termini and Untitled Bar), the new Goldy Gin is being launched this week in collaboration with two very familiar local names — Icebergs restaurateur and designer Maurice Terzini, and influencer, friend and fellow fashion heavyweight Justin O'Shea. "The Goldy Gin brand is concerned with a few things; authenticity, value, taste and fun," O'Shea explained. "So all of the partners in this project have to stand for these attributes." Primed for gin and tonics or classic cocktails, it's a no-fuss creation that's straight to the point, clocking in at 44% alcohol by volume. With big-name bars like Lou Lou's and Soho House in London, and Paris' Hemingway Bar and Caviar Kaspia already fans, the gin is gearing up for a huge global launch, right here in Australia this week. Terzini and O'Shea will be hosting Goldy tastings at bars across Sydney and Melbourne over the coming days, with a launch party set to take over The Dolphin in Sydney this Thursday, November 16. Image: Zackery Michael.
A trip to France might not be on your agenda in 2024. Sans DeLorean, travelling back in time definitely isn't. But add visiting regional Victoria to your itinerary between March–July and you can enjoy a look at Paris in the Belle Époque period. Bendigo Art Gallery is hosting Paris: Impressions of Life 1880–1925, a big exhibition that benefits from pieces from Parisian history museum Musée Carnavalet — Histoire de Paris. This is an exclusive showcase, so hitting the town from Saturday, March 16–Sunday July 14 is the only way to see it in Australia. Art and artisan objects will be on loan from Musée Carnavalet, and they'll have company thanks to fashion pieces from houses of the era, which will be provided by National Gallery of Victoria and the National Gallery of Australia. [caption id="attachment_943227" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Georges Stein. Riders, and carriages on the avenue du Bois c. 1900. oil on canvas. Musée Carnavalet. © CCO Paris Musées / Musée Carnavalet — Histoire de Paris.[/caption] More than 170 works will be on display from Paris' oldest municipal museum, which is a mere fraction of its 620,000-strong collection. This is the first time that an exhibition has been solely developed from the Musée Carnavalet for an international gallery only featuring its own pieces — other than the fashion that Bendigo Art Gallery is pairing with it — which is no small coup for the venue. Paris: Impressions of Life 1880–1925 will split its wares into seven strands, all endeavouring to show Paris of the era as seen by those who lived there. Accordingly, including across 90-plus paintings, attendees will peer at gardens, the Seine's banks, theatres, Montmartre's cabarets, openair markets, restaurants and more. Among the artists featured: Ludovic Vallée, Albert Marquet, Louis Abel-Truchet, Maurice Utrillo, Paul Signac, Jean Béraud, Maximilien Luce, Jules Chéret and Leonetto Capiello. [caption id="attachment_943231" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Paul Signac, Le Pont des Arts 1928, oil on canvas. Musée Carnavalet. © CCO Paris Musées / Musée Carnavalet — Histoire de Paris.[/caption] Henri de Toulouse Lautrec's theatre posters will also be a big drawcard. Or, you can check out shop signs from cafes and hairdressers, illustrated dining menus, and souvenirs from the 1889 and 1900 Exposition Universelles. It was for the 1889 event that the Eiffel Tower was built (see also: the film Eiffel). As for the fashion, it'll cover pieces from the late-19th century to the 1920s, too, including from House of Worth, Jacques Doucet, Madeleine Vionnet and the Callot Souers. [caption id="attachment_943228" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Poster for the cabaret venue Divan Japonais at 75 rue des Martyrs 1892. colour lithograph. Musée Carnavalet. © CCO Paris Musées / Musée Carnavalet — Histoire de Paris.[/caption] "Paris is without doubt one of the world's most picturesque and captivating cities, and the exhibition distils its beauty and energy, from the busy banks of the Seine, bustling marketplaces, grand boulevards, idyllic public gardens and the bohemian Montmartre area, as it was portrayed by some of the most influential artists and artisans of the period," said Jessica Bridgfoot, Director of Bendigo Art Gallery. "This is a rare opportunity for audiences to take a promenade through turn-of-the-century Paris, a dynamic time when the city courted the attention of the world." Stepping back into Parisian history is also on the agenda in Sydney this year, thanks to the Art Gallery of New South Wales' huge Alphonse Mucha exhibition, while both The LUME in Melbourne and HOTA, Home of the Arts on the Gold Coast are focusing on the Italian renaissance. [caption id="attachment_943230" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ludovic Vallée, Montsouris Park c1900, oil on canvas. Musée Carnavalet. © CCO Paris Musées / Musée Carnavalet — Histoire de Paris.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_943232" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Souvenir fan with panorama of the 1889 Universal Exhibition 1889, printed glazed cotton percale and wood. Musée Carnavalet © CCO Paris Musées / Musée Carnavalet — Histoire de Paris.[/caption] Paris: Impressions of Life 1880–1925 will display at Bendigo Art Gallery, 42 View Street, Bendigo from Saturday, March 16–Sunday July 14 — head to the gallery's website for further details. Top image: Jean Béraud, The Entrance to the 1889 Universal Exhibition 1889, oil on wood. Musée Carnavalet. © CCO Paris Musées / Musée Carnavalet — Histoire de Paris.
UPDATE, AUGUST 13, 2020: Eleven Rooftop Bar is temporarily closed, with Maya Mexican taking over the space on a pop-up basis. Eleven is a lucky number for some, and it might just prove a lucky place for many. Brisbane rooftop bar Eleven has a sky-high vantage point from the eleventh floor of 757 Ann Street, looking out over Newstead to the CBD. If surveying the city from up above isn't your thing, then devouring share plates with your mates probably is — while enjoying bottle service, and sitting in a semi-private booth. Owner Jason Coats has transformed the place with a laidback feel by day that transitions into a cultured party vibe by night. In order to achieve that, he has taken inspiration from a few overseas jaunts, such as rooftop bars in Istanbul, luxe party venues in Bali and spots in Ibiza. The result is a Mediterranean-inspired bar and restaurant that offers a modern European share plate menu and handcrafted cocktails. Images: Pandora Photography.
Another New Year’s Eve party, another era to celebrate; this time, it’s the sexy 1970s. Think disco and divas, because that’s exactly what’s on offer at Cloudland, as well as flares, platforms, hot pants and go-go boots. The Fortitude Valley venue channels the essence of the only New York nightclub that mattered at the time, Studio 54, with a party that would’ve been at home within its hallowed walls. If you’ve seen the film 54, you’ve had a glimpse of what you’re in for. Cloudland will bring the live band, DJs and roving performers; you bring your own brand of Saturday night fever.
There's nothing quite like the thrum of a crowd at a live gig, but we often forget to acknowledge all the incredible work that goes into putting on a show. Australia's live music scene is growing, and we owe so much of that to not only the musicians but also their managers, agents, crew and others working tirelessly behind the scenes. Support Act props up the music industry with mental health and wellbeing initiatives, like the Wellbeing Helpline, short-term financial aid and dedicated First Nations support. On Thursday, November 30, it's asking you to help continue to raise funds for music workers by showing your support on Ausmusic T-Shirt Day. Don your favourite Ausmusic tee on Thursday, November 30 and donate to Support Act to boost Australia's music industry. If you don't have a shirt, you can buy one on the website for $50. Take your pick of designs created by local artists, featuring musos such as Kylie Minogue, Nick Cave, Paul Kelly, Gang of Youths and John Farnham – but get in quick, as stocks are limited. All proceeds go directly to Support Act. You can get additional merch from celebrated stars such as Jess Mauboy, Tame Impala, Tash Sultana, INXS, RÜFÜS DU SOL and Ocean Alley, who are donating a percentage of sale proceeds to the campaign. Find the full list of merch partners at the website. In showing your support, you'll become a part of something bigger. Upholding the cause are some notable names in Aussie music — lead ambassadors Amy Shark, Budjerah and Jimmy Barnes are joined by Alex Lahey, Baker Boy, Client Liason, Gretta Ray, Jet, Josh Pyke, MAY-A, Voyager and more. ARIA, Triple J, Heaps Normal, Gildan Brands and AAMI are also backing the cause. "November 30 is a day where we can all rally together, show our support of Aussie music and raise much-needed funds for Support Act who do amazing work for artists, crew and music workers across the industry," shares Amy Shark. Donate and get involved at the Ausmusic website.
Outgrowing his first location in Fitzroy is something Andrew McConnell (Cumulus Inc., Supernormal) didn't expect to happen so quickly — but, after just two years, the acclaimed chef and restaurateur is set to open a second store, this time in St. Kilda. Along with co-owner and butcher Troy Wheeler, McConnell will bring his fancy meats, trademark club sandwiches and snags to the south. The pair will set up shop in the historic Gruner's, a butcher and deli with over 60 years of tradition. In a classic Australian immigrant tale, founders Endre and Rose Gruner arrived in Melbourne from Budapest in 1957, looking to establish a new life and opportunities for their children. Fellow Hungarians were said to have come from all over Melbourne to not only buy familiar food, but also to speak in their native tongue, and the shop still holds cultural significance for the area. "A long-standing business like Gruner's has been an integral piece of Melbourne food history," McConnell says. "Troy and I are thrilled to be part of continuing this tradition." With an old-meets-new philosophy, Meatsmith's Barkly Street location will inherit some of Gruner's most-loved recipes, with Hungarian, Polish and European smallgoods taking their spot next to Meatsmith's classics; including dry-aged beef, the Cumulus Inc. lamb shoulder and foie gras parfait. Architects Herbert & Mason (who fashioned the Fitzroy interior) will team up with award-winning, minimalist interior designer Fiona Lynch to ensure the new fitout is in line with the Meatsmith brand and feel — think clean lines and lots of white marble. The new store will open in August, with an exact date still to be confirmed. For those itching for a Meatsmith fix in the meantime, the original location has just kicked off a bi-monthly ode to the world's best food regions, starting with a celebration of Italy for the month of July. Meatsmith St Kilda is set to open in August at 227A Barkly St, St. Kilda.
Pirates of Australia: prepare to panic and startle the parrot perched on your rough, sea dog shoulder. The Pirate Bay, the worst enabler of petty criminality in Australia (probably), will be blocked in the next 15 days. According to ABC News, in a case before the Federal Court of Australia, Foxtel and Village Roadshow have asked for five major torrent sites, including The Pirate Bay, to be blocked by major internet service providers. Other sites include Torrentz, TorrentHound, IsoHunt and SolarMovie. It'll be up to the ISPs to decide how to do the blocking. In what is presumably favourable news for piraters, the ISPs haven't been granted a rolling injunction, which means new sites can't be added to the block list as they spring up. This means mirroring can (and most probably will) spring up, making the whole legal exercise a little redundant. One commenter on the ABC post offered their experience of similar legal orders in the UK. What the lack of rolling injunction means is that if a site like TorrentHound (which doesn't actually exist anymore), closes down and restarts under a different name, they will have to go back to court to shut it down. It's been noted (again and again, mind you) that VPNs are an easy and cheap way around the blocks, but Graham Burke — co-chief executive of Village Roadshow, who, as well as being one of the copyright-holding applicants, have also proposed a plan to fine illegal downloaders — told the ABC he doesn't think they are a significant issue. "The experience overseas is not many people use VPNs because they cost money as well," he told ABC News. Sure thing. While the outcome of this court case doesn't worry most people — and there's nothing in the act that mentions any fines or penalties for people who try to access the blocked sites — the precedent has been set, so it'll be easier in future to litigate. In a live Facebook video chat, ABC journalists Will Ockenden and Jake Sturmer note that piracy rates have dropped since sites like Presto, Netflix and Stan have become widely available in Australia, so it's possible a solution is out there. What did they expect, though? Australia was colonised by a steady stream of low-key crims from the start. If they could have downloaded bread in the 1700s, you know the convicts would have been racing home every Monday to download the latest tastiest loaf from HBO. Via ABC News.
Ikea products are notoriously frustrating to assemble, and the lack of words in their assemble instructions doesn't make it any easier. While their commitment to sustainability and not wasting paper is admirable, surely a few words here and there wouldn't kill too many more extra trees. But have you ever been tempted to just throw the instructions out and see what happens? Italian design firm Teste Di Legno did just that, although more out of curiosity than frustration. While assembling some new office furniture, they came up with the idea of "enriching" one piece of furniture with bits of another, which led to the creation of their 'Lato B' collection — four pieces of multipurpose Franken-furniture made entirely out of reimagined Ikea products. For instance, their 'Unacucina' ('one kitchen') piece combines a coffee table, toy storage and flower pots with an island bench to create a quirky, one-off piece of furniture that even has space for a herb garden. On Teste di Legno's website, they describe the process of making the collection as being "like moving around a body to discover the less visible parts (from side A to side B), or illuminating with a ray of light the dark part — not of the moon — which forces a design to have a fixed, rigid, defined identity: a table is a table." Although 'Ikea hacking' is not a new idea, this is definitely among the more creative attempts we've seen. Via PSFK.
Still looking for that perfect romantic gift to satisfy your lover’s expectations this Valentine’s Day? Don’t sweat it - Instructables.com has the perfect solution for those who are in a creative drought. DIY beef jerky briefs are sure to provide a deliciously amusing experience this 14th of February. Forget about gag-candy underwear. These hand-made meaty undergarments are packed with protein and are guaranteed to cause some heat in the bedroom. Fun- Check. Sexy – Check. Practical – Check. All you need is some ground beef, a few flavourings to taste, a dehydrator and a little time, effort and love and voila – Valentine’s Day sorted. For vegetarians, or those unwilling to jeopardise their sex life today it’s probably best to stick to the old roses and chocolates combo.
Ningaloo Reef is the only large reef in the world that you can access straight off the shore. Whether you’re lazing on the sand in Exmouth or Coral Bay, all you have to do is slip on your snorkelling gear, paddle out a few metres and, within minutes, you’ll be hanging out in dazzling coral gardens, along with dolphins, turtles and manta rays. You’ll find the UNESCO heritage-listed wonder 1,200 kilometres north of Perth, from where it runs north along the coast for 260 kilometres, between North West Cape and Red Bluff. Like the Great Barrier Reef, its fragile environment is under constant threat — from both development proposals and excessive tourism. Here's your eco-friendly guide to spending time in Ningaloo, while treading carefully. For the best prices on flights and accommodation on the WA Coral Coast, check out Wotif.com. SWIMMING WITH WHALE SHARKS Ningaloo is most famous for the hundreds of mammoth-sized visitors that come around once a year — between April and July. Even though they’re called whale sharks, they’re so gentle you can swim alongside them. And they also happen to be the biggest fish in the world. In few places do they gather in big crowds, but when you have 18 metres of body to feed, Ningaloo’s plankton feasts are hard to pass by. To swim, snorkel or dive with whale sharks, book yourself into a day tour. Needless to say, we don’t want to bombard them with strangers, so tours are tightly controlled, with only ten people allowed to hang about each creature at a time. If you happen to be in Exmouth between 21 and 24 May 2015, you’ll be right on time for the Whale Shark Festival. HUMPBACKS, TURTLES AND DUGONGS Whale sharks aren’t the only underwater life seeking out Ningaloo’s culinary abundance. Where other habitats have been over-fished and stripped of their diversity, Ningaloo is still thriving (so far). 30,000 humpback whales breach and spout their way past between June and November, on their 11,000 kilometre journey from Antarctica to the warm breeding grounds just off the Kimberley. Minke, southern right and blue whales pop by frequently, too. Excellent spots for whale watching include Exmouth’s main beach, Bundegi Beach and Vlamingh Head, but if you’d like to get closer, join a whale watching tour. Then there are dolphins, manta rays, one thousand dugongs and Jacques Cousteau knows how many fish. Six of the world’s seven marine turtle species call Ningaloo home, four of them vulnerable or endangered, and the reef is one of the most important nesting grounds on the planet for green and loggerhead turtles. To watch hundreds of hatchlings making their dangerous dash to the sea, you’ll need to visit between November and February. The breeding process is incredibly delicate, so you’re asked to follow the guidelines outlined in the Ningaloo Turtle Watchers’ Code of Conduct, which you can pick up from the Exmouth Visitor Centre, or join a tour. PROTECTION AND PRESERVATION Back in the 1960s, the WA branch of the Australian Marine Sciences Association recommended that Ningaloo be turned into a marine reserve, but it wasn’t until May 1987 that their suggestion was realised, and not until November 2004 that the park boundary was expanded to incorporate the entire reef. At present, 34% of the reef is made up of protective sanctuary zones. Regardless of such legislation, however, Ningaloo hasn’t been immune to threat from developers. In 2003, a plan to build a 2,000-bed resort at Mauds Landing was rejected, largely thanks to the Save Ningaloo Reef Campaign. Then, in 2010, sustained opposition successfully defeated a proposal to develop a salt mine in Exmouth Gulf. Now, the focus is on ensuring that development of, and tourism in, the area happens along sustainable lines. If you’re visiting, be sure to opt for eco-friendly activities and choose ethical tour operators.
Whether you're keen to cross completing a marathon off your bucket list or you're just looking for a wholesome and endorphin-inducing way to spend the weekend, there are plenty of must-run events taking place around Australia during the second half of the year. So, chuck on your very best activewear and get ready to clock some serious — or not so serious — kilometres at these events along the east coast. CITY2SURF, SYDNEY The annual City2Surf has called upon all Sydneysiders since its humble beginnings nearly 48 years ago, and this year shall be no different. The world's largest timed fun run has raised around $36 million for more than 900 charities since 2008 — and is aiming to raise a jaw-dropping $5 million this year alone. With more than 80,000 participants expected to tie up their laces and join the race, the City2Surf is a must-do for running enthusiasts. Owned and organised by the Sun Herald in partnership with Westpac, the 14-kilometre-long course starts from Sydney's Hyde Park, winds through the city streets, up the notorious Heartbreak Hill and through the eastern suburbs until it comes to a finish at glorious Bondi Beach. As you can tell, this isn't just your casual stroll through the park. Beyond the finish line, a beachside event awaits participants. Live entertainment, food vendors and cold beers await you. The City2Surf will take place on Sunday, August 12. You can register for the race here. RUN MELBOURNE, MELBOURNE This year, Run Melbourne will celebrate its 11th birthday with a two-day running festival — and it features live music and delicious food pop-ups as well as the race. As one of Australia's most iconic winter running festivals, Run Melbourne attracts both super fit athletes and casual Tan strollers alike. More than 175,000 runners have participated in this famed Melbourne running event since its inception — raising roughly $12 million for more than 400 charities to date. Organised in partnership with Lululemon, the course includes three race options: five kilometres, ten kilometres and a hefty half marathon. Run Melbourne will commence in the heart of the city at Federation Square, taking participants past Melbourne landmarks including the MCG, Rod Laver Area and South Wharf before finishing up at Birrarung Marr. Run Melbourne kicks off with the Friendship Dash on Saturday, July 28 with the main race taking place the following day, Sunday, July 29. Register for the Run Melbourne events here. THE COLOR RUN, NATIONAL Founded as a way to promote happiness and health, this five-kilometre-long run involves splashes of colour to distract you from the fact that you're, you know, exercising. All participants are asked to wear white t-shirts and embrace the colour pigment that's blasted at them at various points during the race. This is sweaty exercise disguised as straight-up fun. With a party at the beginning, a party at the end, and four colour zones to dance your way through — the fun never stops, and neither do your legs. The Color Run now takes place in more than 35 countries worldwide, attracting six million runners across the globe. This year it'll run races in Melbourne, Sydney, the Gold Coast and Perth. The Color Run will happen on the Gold Coast on Sunday, August 19; Sydney on Sunday, October 7; and Melbourne on Sunday, November 25. You can register for the events here. SYDNEY RUNNING FESTIVAL, SYDNEY On this Sydney track runners are afforded postcard-like views of the city while running on one of Australia's most iconic landmarks: the Harbour Bridge. With four events — the Marathon (42.2 kilometres), Half Marathon (21 kilometres), Bridge Run (nine kilometres) and the Family Fun Run (3.5 kilometres) — it doesn't matter whether you are a seasoned athlete or just starting your running journey. Post-event, all runners and their family and friends are invited to celebrate their achievements in the recovery village located in the Royal Botanic Gardens. The Blackmores Running Festival kicks off on Sunday, September 16. You can register for the races here. BRISBANE MARATHON FESTIVAL, BRISBANE A run is always made better by a scenic view — whether it's keeping you motivated, or distracted from your athletic endeavours, a pretty landscape makes all the difference. The Brisbane Marathon Festival provides running experts and novices with exactly that. Runners and walkers descend on the streets of the Brisbane CBD for this annual event, enjoying full closure of major city streets to experience a marathon event of epic proportion. The course has three duration options — the marathon, the half marathon and the ten-kilometre race — and whether you're from Brisbane or interstate, it's the best way to see the city in all its glory. The Brisbane Marathon will take place on Sunday, August 12. You can register for the marathon here. MELBOURNE MARATHON FESTIVAL, MELBOURNE The Melbourne Marathon Festival started back in the 70s and is a favoured annual running event for many Melburnians. The races vary in length and difficulty — the shortest event being a three-kilometre walk — and the flat course is perfect for less-experienced runners. The track spans the Melbourne CBD and gives runners an opportunity to experience the city's famous landmarks, feet first — from the St Kilda beach foreshore to the MCG, there's plenty to see. Take part on your own, as a team or with colleagues, and help raise funds for the Cerebal Palsy Education Centre, or a charity of your choice. The Melbourne Marathon Festival will take place on Sunday, October 14. You can register for the race here. [caption id="attachment_677471" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Flickr.[/caption] PUB2PUB CHARITY RUN, SYDNEY The annual Pub2Pub is arguably one of the most scenic runs in Sydney boasting spectacular beach views. Celebrating its 27th birthday this year, the running festival has raised more than $3.5 million for local northern beaches' charities. Whether you consider yourself an avid runner or more of a leisurely stroller, Pub2Pub has three course options available to satisfy all types of runners: Dee Why Beach (13 kilometres), Warriewood (six kilometres), and Mona Vale (three kilometres). Beyond the finish line, on the shores of Newport Beach, a huge family-friendly festival awaits with live music, a licensed bar, an array of food vendors, fun rides and games. The Pub2Pub Charity run kicks off on Sunday, August 26. You can register for the run here.
Mission Beach is the jewel in Tropical North Queensland's crown. The quiet coastal town is made up of four villages — Bingil Bay, North Mission Beach, Wongaling Beach and South Mission Beach — and is a scenic two-hour drive south of Cairns. [caption id="attachment_842236" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] Start with breakfast at the much-loved Bingil Bay Cafe before completing the picturesque Kennedy Walking Track. The eight-kilometre trail winds through lush rainforest, deserted beaches and around a rocky headland featuring spectacular views of the Family Islands. After your walk, head to Lacey Creek in Djiru National Park to cool off in a pristine rainforest pool and a picnic lunch. Then, treat yourself to a luxe hot stone massage at the beachfront spa Drift before finishing the day with poolside cocktails and local seafood at restaurant and bar Buko next door. Top images: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
Ah, summer days in Brisbane. Ask anyone who lives in the river city and we will all tell you that they are long and hot. But, Queenslanders being Queenslanders, battle through — while sweating profusely — seeking solace in every air-conditioned space and breezy open terrace. And even if you can't bear to be outside during the height of the day, we all know when the sun begins to set and that welcome breeze blows in, there's nothing quite like a balmy summer's night out in Brisbane. From riverside to rooftop, the city's dining scene embraces the climate and caters to summertime nightlife. So, to help you plan your next al fresco outing, we've put together a list some of Brisbane's latest and greatest outdoor spaces. These beauties have popped up just in time to make the prospect of a summer stinker more than bearable.
Thanks to Isaac Newton and his three laws of motion, the world knows all about inertia, acceleration and equal but opposing forces. That said, if it wasn't for astronomer Edmund Halley — yes, the man that Halley's comet is named after — Newton's groundbreaking discoveries mightn't have happened. If you're wondering why and how, then Nearer the Gods is the new play for you. And even if you're not currently pondering the situation, this world-premiere effort turns one of humankind's great scientific moments into a star-studded on-stage drama. Hitting Bille Brown Theatre for a four-week run, the theatre production plays from Saturday, October 6 to Saturday, November 3. Written by David Williamson, directed by Sam Strong, and starring Matthew Backer, William McInnes and Rhys Muldoon, Queensland Theatre's latest effort spins the story you probably didn't study in high school. It comes complete with squabbles, collaborations, politics, rivalries and struggles that hark back more than three centuries — and a dash of black humour mixing with scientific brilliance.
Love might be blind, but deaf it is not. Just ask anyone who’s fallen madly for a snorer. Like Anthony Burgess wrote, “Laugh and the world laughs with you, snore and you sleep alone.” No amount of moonlit serenading, Shakespearean declarations of passion or Lindt chocolate can make up for harrowing nights next to your own personal Boeing-747. But how to deal with it? Entire national websites are dedicated to the problem. Surgery to remove parts of the snorer’s mouth and throat? Implants to harden up their palate? Sticking tape to their nose and chin? Approaching an ear plug company for sponsorship? The Crowne Plaza Hotel chain has trialled “snore absorption” rooms in Europe and “snore monitors” in the UK. The latter patrol a hotel’s “quiet zones”, knocking on the doors of snorers who are audible from the corridor. Hammacher Schlemmer, supplier of “unexpected gifts”, has now introduced a 'Snore Activated Nudging Pillow' to the market. A tiny inbuilt microphone picks up on the sonic vibrations caused by snoring. As they escalate, an internal bladder fills with air, causing the would-be marriage wrecker to shift position. It’s possible to adjust the mic according to the user’s velocity and set the inflation level at anywhere between 7 and 17 centimetres. A contoured shape and 100 percent polyurethane filling aim to make the pillow as comfy as possible and the 100 percent polyester removable cover is machine-washable. Valentine’s Day might have come and gone, but if you don’t mind spontaneously splashing out on your favourite unbearably noisy bedfellow, US$149.95 will buy a Snore Activated Nudging Pillow. Via PSFK.
When a franchise has spent more than a decade intertwining 20-plus films and multiple TV shows, watching along often becomes a game of 'spot the other superheroes'. Yes, we're talking about the never-ending, always-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe, which loves popping as many caped crusaders as it can into its flicks and shows — and serving up surprises, too, beyond the usually sizeable list of main spandex-wearing players that any of its movies or series have already announced. The next film set to do just that: Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, the 28th big-screen chapter in the MCU, the followup to huge 2021 hit Spider-Man: No Way Home and the direct sequel to 2016's Doctor Strange. It first dropped a trailer last December, back when No Way Home arrived. In fact, that trailer was tacked onto the end of the Spidey flick if you sat through it till the very end of the credits. But now Marvel has released a second sneak peek at Doctor Strange's next adventures — Super Bowl day is always a big trailer day in the US, which is why it's dropping now — and it comes with quite the tease. Already, fans knew that The Power of the Dog Oscar-nominee Benedict Cumberbatch is popping his Doctor Strange cloak back on, as he did in No Way Home. We were also already that this new dive into the mystic arts would include a post-WandaVision Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen) — plus Benedict Wong (Nine Days) as Wong, Rachel McAdams (Game Night) as Strange's ex Dr Christine Palmer and Chiwetel Ejiofor (Locked Down) as fellow Master of the Mystic Arts Mordo, too. The new trailer seems to add to the film's cast in a huge way, however, which is exceptional news for anyone that's loved movies based on Marvel comics since other superhero teams were doing big things in the early 2000s pre-Iron Man. The surprise is best discovered by watching, could signal the arrival of a whole heap of other familiar characters into the MCU, and arrives in a trailer that sees Doctor Strange forced to face the consequences of breaking the rules for Peter Parker. Indeed, Wanda points out that the repercussions for his actions appear to have been rather different than the fallout for hers post-WandaVision, and she's really not thrilled about it. Expect Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness to serve up will trippy Inception-style imagery, Strange's brooding demeanour and Marvel's usual world-in-peril shenanigans as well, all in a flick that also boasts a nice piece of symmetry. The movie marks the MCU filmmaking debut of acclaimed Evil Dead franchise director Sam Raimi, the man who helmed the original three Spider-Man movies in the 00s, way back before the Marvel Cinematic Universe was even a glimmer in the comic book company's eye, and obviously long before Doctor Strange and Tom Holland's Spider-Man became pals. Check out the latest Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness trailer below: Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness releases in cinemas Down Under on May 5, 2022. Images: Photos courtesy of Marvel Studios. ©Marvel Studios 2022. All Rights Reserved.
What do Parks and Recreation, Wellington Paranormal and Ted Lasso all have in common? They're all stellar examples of kind-hearted TV comedies that are an utter delight to watch, especially in chaotic times. Like a balm for frazzled nerves, these types of sitcoms focus on nice and caring people doing nice and caring things, even while their characters navigate all manner of ups and downs. Michael Schur-created favourite Brooklyn Nine-Nine also fits the category, because it too celebrates people who support each other, are always there for each other and form heartwarming bonds as a result. That's what these instantly likeable programs perfect again and again — and do so to not just an entertaining but to a soul-replenishing degree. By now, three of the aforementioned shows have already established a legion of fans, and deservedly so. Ted Lasso, the fourth series named above — and a 2020 newcomer — definitely belongs in the same company even just based on its ten-episode first season, plus the first two instalments of its second season so far. Starring a gloriously optimistic, already Golden Globe-winning Jason Sudeikis, the comedy first introduces its titular character during a period of transition. A college-level American football coach, Ted is hired by struggling English soccer team AFC Richmond, despite having zero knowledge of the sport. Ted is recruited for the role by the club's new owner, Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham, Game of Thrones), who received the organisation in her divorce settlement and is determined to tank it to spite her slimy ex (Buffy the Vampire Slayer's Anthony Stewart Head). And, she knows that her new hire will face more than a few issues in his unlikely job. The ravenous British media write Ted off instantly, the club is in a spot on on-field bother, and veteran champion Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein, Uncle) and current hotshot Jamie Tartt (Phil Dunster, Judy) just can't get along. And yet, this American in London's upbeat attitude does wonders — as aided by his laconic offsider and long-time friend Coach Beard (Brendan Hunt, Bless This Mess), and the team's kit man-turned-assistant coach Nathan Shelley (Nick Mohammed, Intelligence). For much of his career, Sudeikis has excelled at playing thorny, jerkish characters (see: the terrific Colossal) who initially appear otherwise. He's exceptional at showing how arrogance can lurk behind a nice-guy demeanour, and he's proven that multiple times. Ted Lasso is never mean-spirited, however — and that applies to both the series and its main figure. Sudeikis is fantastic here as the genuinely caring coach just trying to do his best, and attempting to bring out the best in others. Yes, the series he's in is just as spot-on, as are his impressive cast members. In Ted Lasso's second season, which has just started streaming on Apple TV+, Ted faces a new challenge. The team has just added psychologist Dr Sharon Fieldstone (Sarah Niles, I May Destroy You) to its ranks and, while Ted may be all positivity, all the time, he's not fond of Dr Fieldstone's profession — and finds her an unsettling presence. This is a series about working through those kind of roadblocks, though. It's one where Rebecca has moved on from just trying to use the club to annoy her ex, and is now thoroughly invested in its fortunes — and where her friendship with model, media darling, Jamie's ex-girlfriend and Roy's current partner Keeley Jones (Juno Temple, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil) is never framed as competitive, as would likely be the case elsewhere. Consequently, exploring this storyline in a meaningful and positive way just adds to Ted Lasso's strengths. Viewers definitely don't need to love soccer or even sport to fall for this show's ongoing charms, to adore its determination to value banding together and looking on the bright side, and to love its depiction of both male tenderness and supportive female friendships. Those traits keep building episode by episode, as does fondness for its underdog team both on and off the pitch, and its ability to make Roy's love of swearing constantly both smart and hilarious. It's no wonder that Ted Lasso picked up a whopping 20 Emmy nominations this year, for its first season alone, including acting nods for pretty much every main actor involved in the show. In fact, this is the best sitcom currently in production. Check out the trailer for Ted Lasso's second season below: The first two episodes of Ted Lasso's second season are available to stream via Apple TV+, with new episodes dropping weekly — and all of the show's first season is also available via the streaming service.
Something delightful is happening in cinemas across the country. After months spent empty, with projectors silent, theatres bare and the smell of popcorn fading, Australian picture palaces are starting to reopen — spanning both big chains and smaller independent sites in Sydney and Brisbane (and, until the newly reinstated stay-at-home orders, Melbourne as well). During COVID-19 lockdowns, no one was short on things to watch, of course. In fact, you probably feel like you've streamed every movie ever made over the past three months, including new releases, comedies, music documentaries, Studio Ghibli's animated fare and Nicolas Cage-starring flicks. But, even if you've spent all your time of late glued to your small screen, we're betting you just can't wait to sit in a darkened room and soak up the splendour of the bigger version. Thankfully, plenty of new films are hitting cinemas so that you can do just that — and we've rounded up, watched and reviewed everything on offer this week. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gnTuWEKSXw BILL & TED FACE THE MUSIC When it comes to goofy and sweet movie concepts handled with sincerity, the Bill & Ted franchise has always proven most triumphant. In 1989's Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, the big-screen comedy series introduced the world to Californian high schoolers Bill S Preston, Esq (Alex Winter) and Ted 'Theodore' Logan (Keanu Reeves), who are apparently destined to write the rock song that unites the universe — if they can first pass their history exam by travelling back in time in a phone booth to recruit famed past figures like Beethoven and Socrates to help, that is. The idea that Bill & Ted's affable, air guitar-playing slackers would become the world's salvation was a joke that the film itself was in on, and the movie struck the right balance of silliness, earnestness and affection as a result. So, the end product was joyous. And, it inspired two follow-ups: 1991's even loopier but still entertaining Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey, and now Bill & Ted Face the Music's affectionate dose of warm-hearted lunacy almost three decades later. Bill (Winter) and Ted (Reeves) are back, obviously. They're older, definitely not wiser, and yet again take a few leaps through time. The fate of life as everyone knows it is still at stake. And, as always, the loveable pair's motto — "be excellent to each other" — is pivotal. Combine all of the above with marital malaise, chip-off-the-old-block daughters Theadora (Ready or Not's Samara Weaving) and Wilhelmina (Atypical's Brigette Lundy-Paine), multiple Bills and Teds, and a 77-minute deadline to write the tune the changes the future, and Face the Music saunters casually forward with a purposeful sense of familiarity. Thankfully, though, this film isn't merely trying to relive past glories. In fact, the very notion that some dreams don't come true sits at the core of this tender and loving movie. Naturally, it's a delight to see Winter and Reeves reprise their roles. They step back into Bill and Ted's shoes with ease, expertly conveying the characters' lingering immaturity, middle-aged malaise and ever-present kindness. They're also clearly having a blast as different versions of the duo, and their enthusiasm is infectious. But when Face the Music finds a plethora of ways to illustrate the merits of their characters' optimistic and warm mindset, it's at its best. Far from bogus, the heartfelt happiness it brings is 100-percent excellent. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO2rvCCVQLQ ADAM From its opening frames, Moroccan drama Adam is both tender and determined, with neither trait subsiding for a moment. Its focus: the unmarried but visibly pregnant Samia (Nisrin Erradi), who tries to find both work and a place to stay in Casablanca as the birth of her baby approaches. Met with the type of attitudes she's already running from, and demonstrating her society's overall disdain for births outside of wedlock, she's turned away at every single door — including, at first, by baker and bereaved single mother Abla (Lubna Azabal). But when the latter spies Samia sleeping on the street across from her home and shop that same evening, she gives her a bed for the night. It's just a once-off, Abla insists; however after Samia hits it off with Abla's pre-teen daughter Warda (Douae Belkhaouda), shows that she's experienced at making pastries (popular ones, too, as the store's customers attest) and starts to share her story with her initially begrudging host, that arrangement is extended. If the above narrative sounds simple, that's because it is, with first-time feature filmmaker Maryam Touzani never resorting to needlessly complicating matters. There's enough that's complex about both Abla and Samia's situations as it is, including the way that they're treated by the world simply for existing and cycling through the usual life events that women face, that Adam really doesn't require any big twists or turns to heighten its emotional impact. A fine-tuned, observational, always heartfelt script, also by Touzani, helps considerably, as does the movie's naturalistic visual style — which suits a drama that makes clear the high stakes in play for its two characters, as well as the huge choices they're confronted with for their children, but allows its plot to unfurl in a low-key way. One playing resourceful but uncertain, the other stern and wounded, both Catch the Wind's Erradi and Mary Magdalene's Azabal turn in stellar performances, too. The film could easily watch the ebbs and flows of their relationship for far longer than its 98-minute running time, in fact. As a result of all of the above, add Adam to the ever-growing collection of features that thoughtfully, carefully and unwaveringly unpack the plights endured by women around the world. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgA8DMzjzlk SLIM & I As documentary Slim & I conveys more than once, there's little in this life that's ever been more Australian than Slim Dusty. But, as the film's title also informs viewers, this survey of more than a half-century of Aussie country music stardom isn't just about the man known for 'A Pub with No Beer', 'Duncan' and 'G'day G'day', among other tracks. For all of those years, and spanning more than 100 albums and oh-so-much time on the road playing the country's outback towns, Joy McKean was by Slim's side — as a performer in her own right on tour with him at first, then as his wife, musical partner and driving force, as well as the person responsible for penning most of his tunes. Joy won the first ever Golden Guitar award for writing Slim's 'Lights on the Hill', and her lyrical impact has inspired as many Aussie performers as her husband. Indeed, to make that point plain, Slim & I assembles a lineup of talking heads that spans Paul Kelly, Keith Urban, Missy Higgins, Troy Cassar-Daley, Kasey Chambers and Bill Chambers. As directed by Red Dog and The Go-Betweens: Right Here filmmaker Kriv Stenders — blending the unshakeable Australiana of the former with the music acumen of the latter — this affectionate doco also ensures that Joy herself does plenty of talking. Looking back on her life at the age of 90, she's sprightly, no-nonsense and generous as she chats through her and Slim's intertwined story, including the struggles as well as the highlights, and spanning both professional and personal details. An impressive treasure trove of archival footage is splashed across the screen to help, meaning that there's always a new and interesting piece of material to catch the audience's attention. It's all set to the obvious soundtrack, and the result is as loving, engaging, informative and well put-together as you'd expect from an endearing portrait of Aussie icons. While there's much about this celebratory effort that lingers, however, seeing Slim and Joy's commitment to taking their music to the country in action leaves a firm impression. It's never difficult to understand why this movie was screaming to be made, and why Joy deserves as much public acclaim as her husband, but watching the adoring response from the remote Indigenous communities they visited again and again isn't easily forgotten. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z6fssT03sSw BECKY If, in Becky, its eponymous 13-year-old protagonist was to exclaim "keep the change, ya filthy animal" — or, to be precise, to play a videotape of a movie where a gangster utters those words — it wouldn't be surprising for a second. That doesn't happen but it easily could've, given that Becky (Ready Player One's Lulu Wilson) is charged with fending off the villains who've encroached upon her family's lake house. That said, she isn't home alone. Her widower father Jeff (Joel McHale) is onsite as well and, much to Becky's displeasure, he has invited along his new girlfriend Kayla (The Handmaid's Tale's Amanda Brugel) and her young son Ty (Random Acts of Violence's Isaiah Rockcliffe). Alas, after a knock at the door, a group of Nazi prison escapees led by the tattooed and menacing Dominick (Kevin James) also make their presence known. Searching for a hidden key on the secluded property, they quickly take Jeff, Kayla and Ty hostage, leaving Becky to fight back. Like Kevin McCallister, Becky is eager to use every means at her disposal to mess with these interlopers — in a far more brutal and bloody fashion than this film's obvious predecessor, though. No one will be screening Becky to families at Christmas for decades and decades, that's for certain. Making their third feature after 2014's Cooties and 2017's Bushwick, filmmakers Jonathan Milott and Cary Murnion don't ever pretend that they're in new territory here. Instead, they take their given concept, soak it in violence and embrace as much nasty carnage as they can fit in. The end result is repetitive, but it's also filled with a host of gorily entertaining and nicely choreographed B-movie moments. And although enlisting James to play wildly against type is blatantly supposed to be the big casting drawcard, it's Wilson who steals every scene as the calculating, clever, fierce and often fearsome teenage girl who won't let anyone — the dad she's initially angsty at, the future stepmother she doesn't want to give a chance or the very unpleasant men with equally unpleasant plans who spoil her weekend — get in her way. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bovE44LgBv0 AFTER WE COLLIDED The worst movie of 2019 now has a sequel, and it's on track to claim that exact same title in 2020. Originally penned as Harry Styles fan fiction, the After series takes a leaf out of Twilight and 50 Shades of Grey's books by holding up a thoroughly toxic relationship as the ultimate in epic romances — this time focusing on the on-again, off-again exploits of two college students. In After, Tessa Young (Josephine Langford, the Wolf Creek TV series) and Hardin Scott (Hero Tiffin Fiennes, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince) met, opposites attracted and a hot-and-heavy affair kicked off, although the rebellious Hardin sought after the virginal Tessa with shady intentions. Accordingly, when After We Collided meets back up with the duo, they're no longer seeing each other. But the brooding Hardin is still unhealthily obsessed, and the supposedly smart and conscientious but actually overtly insecure Tessa can't help but make reigniting their bond the latest entry on her lengthy (and expanding) list of bad decisions. This time around, the plot uses Tessa's new internship as its reason for a fresh spate of terrible dialogue, as well as its source of drama. It's in publishing, in case 50 Shades didn't already spring to mind, and it's one of those fantasy jobs where the lowest person in the company's hierarchy gets their own office to sit around and read manuscripts in all day. Shameless and steamy wish fulfilment is exactly this franchise's aim, of course — but the big dream that author and After We Collided co-screenwriter Anna Todd pushes is constantly insulting, with the series repeatedly telling its audience that being loved by a moody, erratic bad boy, and taking the breakups, fights and stalking with the gifts and shower sex, is the ultimate fate. This sequel also throws a romantic rival into the mix, courtesy of Tessa's straight-laced colleague Trevor Matthews (Dylan Sprouse, twin brother of Riverdale's Cole Sprouse), and where that narrative strand goes proves as predictable as everything else in the film. Although he has Cruel Intentions on his resume, director Roger Kumble only adds superficial gloss and no signs of interest or excitement; however given that two more After books exist — After We Fell and After Ever Happy — it's highly likely two more movies will, too. If you're wondering what else is currently screening in cinemas, check out our rundown of new films released in Australia on July 2, July 9, July 16, July 23, July 30, August 6, August 13, August 20 and August 27 — and our full reviews of The Personal History of David Copperfield, Waves, The King of Staten Island, Babyteeth, Deerskin, Peninsula, Tenet, Les Misérables and The New Mutants.
If smooth, often improvised sounds get your toes tapping, then the Brisbane International Jazz Festival probably gets your heart racing. Where else can you celebrate experimental melodies and witness some of the best musicians in the world? Or move and groove to what just might be one-off performances. That's the joy of jazz: no show is ever the same. There's so much in the festival's third-year program that you probably won't get to test that — but you will get to enjoy the talents of an impressive array of performers from Norway, Poland, South Korea, Japan and, of course, Australia. Jazz luminaries including the Tord Gustavsen Quartet, the Near East Quartet and the Hiroyuki Minowa Trio are certain to be a highlight. In a lineup that includes a longer list of free sessions than you've ever seen on a music festival schedule, you can also jam with other jazz fans, watch Brisbane's own Enthusiastic Musician’s Orchestra blow their own horns, and celebrate one of the city's hottest nightspots from 1957.
Finding a designated driver on New Year's Eve is not an easy feat — no one's putting their hand up to find a park near the fireworks, South Bank or anywhere near the city. TransLink understands, and is easing the pain of commuting on the big night (slightly) by offering all public transport for free. On Monday, December 31, all trains, buses, ferries and CityCats will be free from 8pm through until 5.30am on Tuesday, January 1. This doesn't apply to the Airtrain or to long-distance services, but if you're travelling within Brisbane, Logan, Ipswich, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, you're in luck. As there will most likely be hordes of people flocking to and from the fireworks, shuttle buses will be running every ten minutes between 5.30–11.30pm inbound from Eight Mile Plains, Carindale and Chermside — and between 8.40–10.15pm and between 12.10–1.30am outbound to the same stops from Ann Street and Woollongabba. The NightLink service will also run at an increased frequency, and you can check out a comprehensive rundown of New Year's Eve services at the TransLink website. Find more information on the free travel periods here and check for updates on the TransLink website.
Gone are the days when travellers checked into hotels with the sole purpose of sleeping. It seems everyone wants a bit extra with their holiday, be it a gardening course, an onsite brewery or a window onto the underwater world. The latest addition to the globe's accommodation wonders is an immersive Stars Wars hotel, which will debut as part of Walt Disney World's new 360 vacation concept in Orlando. We're happy to report that the resort is taking the immersive bit very seriously. Upon check-in, guests become a citizen of the galaxy, which means that, every minute of every day of your stay, you're a part of whichever Star Wars story is happening around you. Chances are, you'll find yourself helping Luke Skywalker in his struggle against the Galactic Empire, being rescued by R2D2 or facing off Darth Vader. And it sounds like dress up will be included and required. For now, the hotel is in concept stage only. As you'd expect, the rooms will be themed and several spaces will likely be straight out of the movies. You'll have to be committed to the experience, as the "every minute of every day" comment may well include sleeping hours — the dark side never sleeps, after all. Image: Disney/Lucasfilm via Disney Parks Blog.
For many Australian restaurants, February 14 represents the most pressurised nights of the year — when dining rooms are taken over by loved-up tables of two trying to impress. But next Valentine's Day, A Table to End Hunger will let food-loving couples skip at least one stressful part of the planning the evening, allowing them to skip the queue and score a VIP table at some of the country's most in-demand restaurants where bookings are usually snapped up days (or weeks) in advance. And they'll be donating to charity at the same time. Returning for its second year in 2017, the initiative is the work of The Hunger Project, an Aussie non-profit on a mission to end world hunger by the year 2030. The event offers punters the chance to bid on often hard to get Valentine's Day reservations, each with a meal for two and a bottle of wine. Participating restaurants include culinary hotspots like Ester, The Apollo and Cho Cho San in Sydney, Urbane and Ecco Bistro in Brisbane and Minimishima and Toko in Melbourne. A coveted dinner reservation and the chance to help fight poverty? Now that's what we call a V-Day win. As all proceeds generated through the A Table to End Hunger eBay bidding site go towards supporting The Hunger Project's global work, you can expect the bookings to go for a little more cash than usual — last year, someone bid $5k for one. The funds raised will help to empower people in Africa, India and Bangladesh to end their own hunger, helping to break the cycle of poverty and nudge communities towards self-reliance. Bidding for 'A Table To End Hunger' kicks off on January 23 here.
When it comes to spirits, do you have clear priorities? Is your go-to drink the fruity tipple that has made many a glass of tonic taste great? Can you taste the difference between Tanqueray and Hendricks? Is sipping gin all day your preferred way to spend a weekend? If you answered yes to any of the above, then you'd best mark June 2 in your calendar. Because there's a special date for everything, that's when Dutch Courage Officers' Mess is celebrating World Gin Day, albeit a week earlier than everyone else. Still, you'd better believe that the venue has put together a day-long gin festival, aptly called Gin Mania, to commemorate the occasion. That's what you'd expect from a bar that has more than 120 gins on its menu, but they really are getting into the spirit of the event. From gin tastings to special cocktails to meet-and-greets with gin distillers, all things juniper are on the bill. There'll also be live entertainment and DJs, food to line your stomach and a dedicated upstairs cocktail lounge. Tickets cost $15, with the fun running from 11.30am till 5.30pm, and the doors opening to the public afterwards.
Not quite certain what to get your loved ones for Christmas this year? Then you clearly haven't spent enough time at a festive market. It's virtually impossible to browse your way through hundreds of stalls and come up empty-handed — in fact, that'd take more effort than picking gifts for your nearest and dearest. Your next place to put the above theory to the test: the Nundah Christmas Twilight Markets, which take place from 4–10pm on Saturday, December 4. Yes, there really will be quite the lineup of places to grab handmade presents, including clothes, jewellery, art, homewares, soap, candles and all things edible. You'll find both gourmet foods and festive treats on offer as well (including bites to eat while you're there). For your $2 entry fee, you can enjoy a stint of shopping under the site's fairy lights at Nundah Markets' usual spot on Station Street. And, you can stop in at the North Pole-themed bar, too. Decorations will be decking the walls with more than boughs of holly, and live music is also on the agenda.
Every last trilby-wearing tween celebrity, President's daughter and your smug, smug US-based friends will be rubbing their paws together after this morning's Coachella festival lineup announcement. Running over two weekends from April 14–23, the Californian festival has delivered their usual jaw-dropper of a lineup. Big gun headliners Beyoncé, Radiohead and Kendrick Lamar mark the top of the weekend bills, with a bonafide metric fucktonne of squealworthy buds filling out the rest — the xx, Bon Iver, Justice, Lorde, The Avalanches, New Order, Future Islands, and Kaytranada to name a few. Even German composer Hans Zimmer is getting in on the action. Homegrown Aussie and New Zealand legends are heading on over and representing with gusto, with Pond, King Gizzard, Broods, Jagwar Ma, Anna Lunoe, What So Not and Empire of the Sun — as well as the aforementioned Avalanches and Lorde — on the bill. Anyway, let's be honest, you haven't truly read any of those words — you'll be wanting this: Coachella runs over two weekends, from April 14-16 and 21-23 in Indio, California. Tickets go on sale at 11am PST on Wednesday, January 4. For more info, visit coachella.com.
COVID-19 has made us put many things on hold: holiday plans, visiting the office, meeting with friends. And for those of us who are not isolating with our significant others, some aspects of our relationship have definitely changed, too. Has our generation moved on from online dating to remote relationships? Perhaps, but only for a little while. Being far apart will take some getting used to, and video calls can hardly compare to actually spending time together, but there's nothing stopping you from having a fun date night with your partner. With everyone locked up at home, conversation can run a little dry, or veer straight into the coronavirus anxiety realm. That's not very romantic. So get creative and try things with an open mind, so you and your significant other can enjoy some much needed quality time together. Here are just a few ideas to get you started. COOK THE SAME MEAL — AND DECIDE WHOSE IS BETTER With so much time on our hands, we can all take advantage of isolation to work on our cooking. And what's more fun than adventuring into the kitchen with your favourite person? First you need to agree on a meal you both enjoy and can manage to round up ingredients for. Here are some recipes that call for five ingredients or fewer. You can also order boxes of groceries from a heap of restaurants. Once you've got everything you need, FaceTime your partner, open a bottle of wine, and get cooking. While you cook, you'll be able to see your significant other in action, doing their own thing, which is quite rare these days of virtual convos. Once your gourmet creation is ready, sit down and enjoy it together while you determine who's the better cook. Who said MasterChef? START A TV SERIES TOGETHER While streaming through a screen share might be a little ambitious, the two of you can coordinate playing and pausing whatever you're watching while you video chat. Right now we recommend checking out Hunters on Amazon Prime if you're looking for an intense action drama, or taking a look at Tiger King on Netflix if you're in search of a bizarre docuseries. You can also turn to cult classics you never had time to watch, like Peaky Blinders and Breaking Bad on Netflix. Looking for something lighter? Check out these titles. If you end up deciding on a Netflix series, the streaming platform has a handy plug-in called Netflix Party that lets you stream with friends (or, in this case, your significant other). In times like these, it's good to get lost in the world of fiction occasionally, and watching together will also give you two a lot to discuss. GET FIT TOGETHER AND DO A WORKOUT (OR A FEW) Few things are funnier than seeing your significant other struggling in candle pose when you decide to take a break from the yoga flow you're doing together. There are many local studios offering online classes to pick from, with work outs varying from yoga to 80s-style aerobics and so much more. Try ClassPass, which has put together livestream classes in a variety of disciplines and levels, so you can stay in shape while supporting local businesses. You can also ramp up the comedy a little by dressing up for the workouts: cue leopard-print leotards and OTT leg warmers for aerobics. MASTER THE ART OF CROSSWORDS Waking up on Sunday morning, whipping up a nice breakfast and sitting on the couch with your partner to solve the Sunday crossword, just like in the movies. Isn't that a nerdy dream we all can get behind? But Sunday crosswords can be hard, so we recommend you start off with some easier versions, like those printed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Then, you can slowly level up until you two can master the Sunday crossword, hopefully by the end of this time of isolation, so you can do it right: over brekkie with sunshine beaming through the window, and of course, with both of you in the same room. You might want to try the classic New York Times Crossword, or these free puzzles from The Guardian. Whichever you choose, you can download Discord or Zoom to share your screen to work on the same crossword while video calling. LEARN A NEW SKILL OR TWO TOGETHER Have you two daydreamed about visiting Mexico together? Now is the time to sit down and learn Spanish. Always wanted to know more about wine, to go on that romantic wine tasting trip together? Enrol in an oenology course together, and get the wines you need to taste delivered to your home. With everything going on, universities and websites are offering a bunch of online courses. What better use of your time apart than getting smarter together, and perhaps preparing for something you can do in the future. This can also help you expand your shared interests, something that will help your relationship beyond quarantine.
Someone's asking questions, and you've got all the answers. Yes, that's what a trivia night is usually all about. The Fox's takes place each Wednesday evening; however Question Time isn't just about showing off your vast array of knowledge. That's on the agenda, of course, but this quiz evening also comes with a super cheap dinner. Burgers and pizza mightn't be your usual idea of brain food. A this price, though, they're sure to get everyone thinking. Tuck into meat and salad between two pieces of bread for $5, or feast on slices of round dough decked out with plenty of toppings for $4. Or, if you're hungry enough, do both. The affordable spread is on offer from 6–8pm, while the trivia part of the proceedings kicks off at 7.30pm. If you're eager to use all of those facts and tidbits your brain has stored over the years, bookings are essential by contacting the South Brisbane watering hole.
Near the end of the degustation at Momofuku Seiobo, you receive a dish of steamed grouper endives, celeriac puree and bonito dust — and a glass of onion juice. It’s part of the restaurant’s juice pairing, an alternative to matching wines where you get a different juice with each course. Momofuku Seiobo was the first restaurant in Australia to offer anything like it. “We had plenty of customers who are coming and they don't drink alcohol, and it's sort of ripping their experience a bit,” says assistant sommelier Ambrose Chiang. “So we worked out with the chefs what's in season and what's available.” That’s how it started, simply juice. It has since evolved to be a much more creative and nuanced way to pair food and drink. “People think it's just apple, orange and pineapple ... Things you could usually get out of a bottle. Sometimes it blows their mind a little bit.” Ambrose says. “It's the same way we approach the wine pairing. Certain flavour profiles, how we serve it, serving temperatures. Whether we strain the juice or not to give it more texture.” HOW MOMOFUKU DISCOVERED THAT ONIONS HAVE LAYERS Ambrose’s ‘onion water’ is the best example. As Momofuku’s menu is based around light and savoury flavours, Ambrose wanted to experiment with creating a savoury juice. “One problem with doing savoury juice — I don't want it to be a broth, I don't want it to be a sauce,” he says. Having something too heavy would offend the dish and that’s the last thing any sommelier wants to do. So he came up with an idea for, not onion juice or onion sauce, but onion water. Brown onions, spring onions and eschallots are cooked in a steaming hot pan until burnt and caramelised. Smoky and slightly sweet in flavour, they’re placed in bags of water and steamed overnight at 65 degrees. In the morning, Ambrose strains the onion and freezes the flavoured liquid. Still oily from the infusion, the ice block is left to drip through a fine muslin bag for two days. It looks like black tea and tastes, at first, like a nothing but a hint of savoury. Then, before it sinks down your throat, you get a burst of charred onion flavour. Ambrose describes the accompanying steamed fish course as “very savoury, slightly smoky but light”. To match it he needed something that was equally light but “with a slight sweetness, smokiness and savouriness” — exactly what you get from his onion water. EMBRACING MOLECULAR GASTRONOMY IN LIQUID FORM With the help of similar pioneering restaurants overseas, Momofuku’s innovation has helped the idea of non-alcoholic pairings to be taken more seriously in Australia. Sydney's Bentley and newcomer nel. are the most recent of a small but growing number of restaurants to test the idea of juice pairings. “My reaction was probably similar to others — sceptical to say the least,” says Bentley sommelier Nick Hildebrandt. “But with our new bar manager and drinks guru Phil Gandevia we actually started to put some thought and effort into it and came up with something that I believe is unique and very good.” Bentley’s first dessert — coconut sorbet, desert lime and honeyed melon — is now available with a pineapple, aloe vera and basil juice. “The idea was not only to match the dessert but to in a way add to it by having another component in liquid form sitting to the side.” Melbourne’s Attica runs a juice pairing based on the produce from their 1200 square metre garden. Banjo Harris Plane, the head sommelier, says one of his favourites is a cold smoked Granny Smith apple juice that’s paired with a King George whiting that’s been torched in a paperbark wrapping. “The harmony between the aroma of the dish and the juice is incredible.” Even with the success they’ve achieved at Attica, Banjo says they’re still scratching the surface of what could be done. “Next for Attica is to experiment with non-alcoholic fermentations, carbonation and thickening. We have also been looking at a scientific device called a homogeniser that incorporates liquids into each other, resulting in better consistency.” TAMING THE SWEET AND THE ACIDIC Joshua Picken, sommelier at Orana in Adelaide, told us they’re working on something similar for their juice pairing using native ingredients. “I have been playing with structural elements like tannin and tartaric acid. We explore non-alcoholic fermentations as I don't want every juice matching to taste sweet.” It’s a sentiment shared by many top sommeliers. “When you think about the juices that are available to us, they're quite sweet," says Ambrose. "If you're just offering juice by the glass, it's fine, but if it’s a pairing, it has to be working with the menu.” He says some other pairings he’s had served great juices, but they’ve been too sweet or overpowering to match the food. After being surprised by a customer request for a non-alcoholic pairing, Quay’s head sommelier, Amanda Yallop, was inspired to create a matching of mocktails and tea. “I am not a fan of only juice being presented. I’m a very big fan of acid in my wines, but to chase an entire meal with only juice is simply too much acidity.” Similarly, Vue de Monde and Brae in Victoria offer entire tea matchings from specialised tea sommeliers. THE NON- (OR LESS-) ALCOHOLIC FUTURE “I think that an evolution is on its way," says Amanda. "Chefs, bar staff and sommeliers are playing and testing with these pairings on a pretty serious level. There is enormous potential as to how far and how extreme it can become.” Despite that, she thinks non-alcoholic matches will never be treated with the same level of passion as wine. Considering both the range of flavours available to juice and the fact that high quantities of alcohol dampen your ability to taste, it could be argued that a non-alcoholic pairing is ultimately more appropriate for degustation-style eating. For one of the best sommeliers in the country, that doesn't quite fly. “I’d argue that there’s still more variety in wine than there is in juice, but I don’t really see it as either or,” says Banjo. “Different occasions for different things.” So perhaps a drink pairing is the best solution? Instead of juice or wine pairings, you’d simply get a different drink matched to each course; some will be wine, some will be juices and some will be something new. “What a fun idea," says Amanda. "I’m not sure how it would go down with guests expectations ... I might try it at Quay’s next food and wine training with our floor team and gauge the reception.” Images: Bodhi Liggett.
He was one of the youngest cast members in Saturday Night Live's history. During his eight-season run on the iconic US sketch-comedy series, he riffed on his own life aplenty, then did the same in The King of Staten Island on the big screen, plus in streaming series Bupkis. If you've caught Pete Davidson's comedy specials, you'll know that the same applies when he's onstage, too — which Australian audiences can witness live in September and October 2025. Davidson has just locked in an Aussie leg on his latest stand-up tour, playing three cities: Perth, Melbourne and Sydney. The whirlwind trip will see him perform three gigs three nights in a row, kicking off at Riverside Theatre in the Western Australian capital on Monday, September 29. Next stop: Palais Theatre in Victoria's counterpart on Tuesday, September 30, then Enmore Theatre in the Harbour City on Wednesday, October 1. [caption id="attachment_776175" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The King of Staten Island © 2020 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS. All Rights Reserved.[/caption] Beyond SNL and otherwise fictionalising his own experiences in cinemas and on TV — and beyond his Pete Davidson: SMD, Pete Davidson: Alive From New York and Pete Davidson: Turbo Fonzarelli specials as well — Davidson has rarely been far from screens over the past decade. Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Trainwreck, Big Time Adolescence, The Suicide Squad, Bodies Bodies Bodies, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Fast X, Dumb Money: they're all on his resume. Davidson's Aussie dates come just after his latest film, heist comedy The Pickup co-starring Eddie Murphy (Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F), drops on Prime Video in early August. [caption id="attachment_897860" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bupkis, Heidi Gutman/Peacock[/caption] He also has the Australian-shot Wizards!, which is directed by Animal Kingdom's David Michôd and co-stars Orlando Bloom (Deep Cover) on its way to the screen. Similarly in the works for Davidson: How to Rob a Bank, the latest film from Atomic Blonde, Bullet Train and The Fall Guy director David Leitch, which will release in 2026. Pete Davidson 2025 Australian Tour Dates Monday, September 29 — Riverside Theatre, Perth Tuesday, September 30 — Palais Theatre, Melbourne Wednesday, October 1 — Enmore Theatre, Sydney Pete Davidson is touring Australia in September and October 2025, with presale tickets available from 10am local time on Thursday, July 31 and general tickets from 10am on Friday, August 1. Head to the tour website for more details.
UPDATE: APRIL 30, 2018 — In news that is really not that surprising, Kendrick's Melbourne and Sydney shows sold out in less than an hour this morning. To meet demand, two more shows have been added — one in Melbourne on July 14 and one in Sydney on July 25. Tickets go on sale at 2pm today, and will no doubt sell out as quickly as the first batch. We had a feeling this might happen. Off the back of an appearance at an already sold-out Splendour in the Grass, Kendrick Lamar will also headline four Australian shows in support of his fourth album DAMN.. Lamar is one of the most critically acclaimed and successful hip hop artists of our generation. The Compton rapper most recently became the first ever artist to take out the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for contemporary music. He's also the beholder of 12 Grammys, has clocked up more than six million album sales worldwide, and was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by TIME Magazine. Lamar will return to our shores for Splendour on the weekend of July 20–22 and four headline shows: one in Perth on July 10, one in Melbourne on July 13, one in Adelaide on July 15 and one in Sydney on July 24. Having recently taken the DAMN. tour across the UK and Europe, set lists included his extensive catalogue, including good kid, m.A.A.d city (2012), To Pimp A Butterfly (2015) and his most recent effort DAMN.. DAMN. AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES 2018 Tuesday, July 10 — Perth Arena, Perth Friday, July 13 and Saturday, July 14 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Sunday, July 15 — Entertainment Centre, Adelaide Tuesday, July 24 and Wednesday, July 25 — Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney Kendrick Lamar will visit Australia in July. Tickets will go on sale at local times on Monday, April 30 here.
Something delightful has been happening in cinemas across the country. After months spent empty, with projectors silent, theatres bare and the smell of popcorn fading, Australian picture palaces are back in business — spanning both big chains and smaller independent sites in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. During COVID-19 lockdowns, no one was short on things to watch, of course. In fact, you probably feel like you've streamed every movie ever made, including new releases, comedies, music documentaries, Studio Ghibli's animated fare and Nicolas Cage-starring flicks. But, even if you've spent all your time of late glued to your small screen, we're betting you just can't wait to sit in a darkened room and soak up the splendour of the bigger version. Thankfully, plenty of new films are hitting cinemas so that you can do just that — and we've rounded up, watched and reviewed everything on offer this week. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NbE96sCJEjo MINARI Although they can frequently seem straightforward, films about the American dream aren't simply about chasing success. The circumstances and details change, but they're often movies about finding a place to call home as well. Such a quest isn't always as literal as it sounds, of course. While houses can signify achievement, feeling like you truly belong somewhere — and that you're comfortable enough to set your sights on lofty goals and ambitions that require considerable risks and sacrifices — transcends even the flashiest or cosiest combination of bricks and mortar. Partly drawn from writer/director Lee Isaac Chung's (Abigail Harm) own childhood, Minari understands this. It knows that seeking a space to make one's own is crucial, and that it motivates many big moves to and within the US. So, following a Korean American couple who relocate to rural Arkansas in the 80s with hopes of securing a brighter future for their children, this delicately observed and deeply felt feature doesn't separate the Yi family's attempts to set up a farm from their efforts to feel like they're exactly where they should be. The result is a precise, vivid, moving, and beautifully performed and observed film told with honest and tender emotion — so much so that it was always bound to be equally universal and unique. When Jacob Yi (Steven Yeun, Burning) introduces his wife Monica (Yeri Han, My Unfamiliar Family), pre-teen daughter Anne (first-timer Noel Cho) and seven-year-old son David (fellow newcomer Alan S Kim) to their new 50-acre plot, he's beaming with pride. He's bought them "the best dirt in America," he says. It might only span a trailer, a field and a creek, but he's certain that it will revolutionise their lives. Although both Jacob and Monica still spend their days in a chicken sexing factory to pay the bills, Jacob is confident his agrarian dream will reap rewards. The path he's chosen isn't a glossy fantasy, though. From trying to work out where best to build a well to provide water for his crops, to endeavouring to convince stores to buy his wares, Jacob weathers more than his fare share of struggles. Monica's worries about their isolation, and about money, also weigh heavily, as she'd rather live in a larger city as part of the Korean diaspora. Also joining their daily woes in a movie that eschews overt conflicts for everyday dramas: Anne and David's attempts to fit in, the latter's heart murmur and the change that sweeps through the family when Monica's mother Soonja (Youn Yuh-jung, Sense8) comes to live with them. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eg7QTqm_i4o THE TRUFFLE HUNTERS Northern Italy's woods are abundant with truffles, especially the tuber magnatum — otherwise known as the white variety. But before these highly sought-after morsels can make their way into kitchens, onto plates, and into many a willing and eager mouth, someone has to spend their time and expend their energy finding the edible fungus. Accordingly, The Truffle Hunters introduces viewers to multiple elderly men and their adorable dogs who all do just that, with their lives revolving around roving the forest and searching out the prized food. It might sound like a relaxed pursuit — as walking through trees with your pet pooch to fill your pockets with a delicacy is bound to — but it's a highly competitive endeavour, and one that the documentary's central figures are intensely passionate about. For Aurelio, the only thing he loves more than foraging for truffles is Birba, his canine partner in the hunt. The cantankerous Angelo has become disillusioned with the way that the industry has evolved over time, so he now attacks his typewriter with gusto instead, using it to chronicle his myriad woes and complaints. Then there's Sergio, who enjoys his task with his dogs Pepe and Fiona by his side. As for Carlo, his beloved pastime is forbidden by his wife. Unperturbed, he routinely sneaks out at night to search with a torch in hand. Cycling between these men's stories, directors Michael Dweck (The Last Race) and Gregory Kershaw (cinematographer on The Last Race, and also on this) chart their individual efforts. The titular subjects try care for their canines, argue with others encroaching on their turf, type missives about how the world has changed and, in Carlo's case, keep absconding by moonlight. Their hounds remain a focus, including their efforts to avoid poison baits. Devoted to capturing the pooch perspective however they can, Dweck and Kershaw aren't above using puppy cam as well. Seeing truffle hunting from a dog's viewpoint may be an easy gimmick, but it's also both a joy and a thrill — and emblematic of the film's fondness for flavour and character above all else. Narration is absent, talking heads don't clog up the screen, and no one is on hand to describe the ins and outs of the business in the spotlight, with Dweck and Kershaw favouring immersion rather than explanation. It's a fitting approach, and a purposeful one, even if the documentary takes on a relaxed air from start to finish. The Truffle Hunters is a leisurely movie that's content to chronicle its subjects' easy-going lives, lean into their eccentricities and survey their lush surroundings — and, even clocking in at just 84 minutes, it's an unhurried gem of a film — however, it's also carefully compiled. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3REMs9I9Tg FIRESTARTER — THE STORY OF BANGARRA More than three decades since it was first formed, Bangarra Dance Theatre is still going strong. In just the last ten years alone, the Sydney-based organisation has unleashed the beauty and potency of works such as Blak, Patyegarang, Lore, OUR land people stories, Bennelong and Dark Emu across Australia's stages, and repeatedly confronted the nation's colonial history head-on in the process. As an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts outfit, it can't avoid it. It similarly can't ignore the impact that the country's past has had upon Indigenous culture, and the trauma that's rippled across generations as a result. And so, as excellent new documentary Firestarter — The Story of Bangarra tells the company's tale, these struggles are firmly part of the narrative. Co-directors Wayne Blair (The Sapphires, Top End Wedding) and Nel Minchin (Matilda & Me, Making Muriel) know their power. Indeed, the two filmmakers are well aware that they can't step through Bangarra's history without placing the acclaimed dance theatre in its rightful social, political and cultural context. What audiences have seen on stage over the years is stunning, astonishing and important, of course, but all of those exceptional performances haven't ever existed in a vacuum. For those unacquainted with the details of Bangarra's origins, evolution, aims and achievements, Firestarter recounts them, starting with its leap out of the National Aboriginal Islander Skills Development Association and the Aboriginal Islander Dance Theatre. Actually, it jumps back further, not only stepping through Bangarra's predecessors, but also charting how Stephen, David and Russell Page became its most famous names. Just as it's impossible to examine the dance company's accomplishments and influence without also interrogating and chronicling Australia's history, it's simply unthinkable to do so without focusing as heavily on the Page brothers as Blair and Minchin choose to. Stephen would become Bangarra's artistic director, a role he still holds. David was its music director, while Russell was one of its best dancers — and their path from growing up in Brisbane in the 60s, 70s and 80s to helping shape and guide an Aussie arts powerhouse is a pivotal component of Bangarra's overall journey thus far. If it sounds as if Firestarter has been set a hefty task — doing triple duty as a celebration, a record of Australia's past and a portrait of three siblings with dreams as big as their talents — that's because it has. But this dense and yet also deft documentary is up to the immense feat, and dances through its massive array of material, topics and themes as skilfully as any of Bangarra's performers ever have. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HZAnkxdYuA THE LITTLE THINGS Before you've even seen a single frame of a film, much can sometimes be gleaned by merely knowing who's in it — if they've been cast to type. The Little Things features Denzel Washington, Rami Malek and Jared Leto, which means it can brag that it stars three Oscar winners, as its trailer does. This 90s-style serial killer thriller has also happily deployed its trio of main players exactly as you'd expect. So, adding yet another cop to his resume, Washington plays unflinchingly dedicated and determined, as well as a character who's far from perfect. Malek has a much shorter acting history, but once again combines the blend of awkwardness and meticulousness that seeped from his pores over four seasons of Mr Robot. As for Leto, he's asked to mine not just his recent cinematic past, but also his overall status in popular culture. From his overcooked take on the Joker in Suicide Squad to the misplaced swagger that's defined his off-screen persona and his rock stardom with Thirty Seconds to Mars, he's hardly widely beloved. The Little Things wants everyone watching to remember that, and perhaps to even stoke the flames of their existing Leto hatred. It works; he's been nominated for a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild Award for his greasy-haired turn, and he's so one-note and over-the-top that it's near-impossible to fathom why. Washington's Joe 'Deke' Deacon was once a well-admired Los Angeles detective; however, when writer/director John Lee Hancock (The Blindside) begins The Little Things, his central character is now a deputy sheriff in Kern County. Deke's current and former colleagues all see that shift as a step down, but he's just as dogged in his new job — and, when he's reluctantly sent back to LA to collect evidence for an important trial, then gets brought in on a new case by Malek's hotshot newcomer Jim Baxter while he's hanging about, he's downright unrelenting. A number of women have been found murdered, and in gruesome circumstances. Baxter doesn't realise it, but the details prove familiar to Deke from years earlier. As the pair's new investigation leads them to repair store employee Albert Sparma (Leto), neither Deke nor Baxter is willing to rest until they solve the case. Off-putting and unpleasant from the moment he's first seen, the creepy, possibly psychotic Sparma likes being seen as a suspect, though, and enjoys toying with the men following him. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_e9w0IL2U0c&feature=emb_logo DAYS OF THE BAGNOLD SUMMER For everyone of schooling age, the onset of warm weather means a lengthy break from classes, teachers, and the child and teenage version of the daily grind. It's a time of freedom, of never needing to worry about what day of the week it is, and of roaming around like there's no tomorrow. For Daniel Bagnold (Earl Cave, True History of the Kelly Gang), he's looking forward to leaving his suburban British existence far behind for a few weeks by visiting his father in Florida. As an added bonus, his librarian mother Sue (Monica Dolan, The Dig) — who he's constantly embarrassed by — isn't coming with him. Then his dad's new life, wife and soon-to-arrive baby daughter get in the way of Daniel's plans, leaving the 15-year-old stranded at home and unhappy about it. He'd be content holing up in his room, listening to metal and fantasising about starting his own band, but Sue is adamant that he tries to find a job. She also complicates Daniel's days by going out on a date with one of schoolteachers (Rob Brydon, The Trip to Greece). That's the leisurely story at the heart of Days of the Bagnold Summer, a coming-of-age comedy driven more by mood than by narrative developments. It has an overall arc, watching on as Daniel and his mother reconnect; however, this adaptation of the graphic novel of the same name is at its best when it sinks into the annual season of teen dreams and disappointments. First-time feature filmmaker Simon Bird is no stranger to the subject, having spent three seasons and two movies starring in The Inbetweeners. Fans of that franchise's irreverent humour will find themselves in far more laidback territory here, though — and watching a film that, visually and tonally, strives to offer a Wes Anderson-esque view of adolescence. Days of the Bagnold Summer's meticulously framed widescreen images don't ever feel like a cheap imitation, thankfully. Rather, they're artful and probing, especially when they manage to peer on at Daniel and Sue doing different things in the same household space. Indeed, this is a movie with a keen sense of how living in the same place and weathering the same struggles doesn't always make two people a family if one of them is determined to resist the concept. It's that insight, always tinged with bittersweet emotion, that helps Bird's feature strike a chord. Working with a script adapted by fellow first-timer Lisa Owens, he also finds the right balance between deadpan quirkiness and lived-in naturalism. Also assisting is Cave, son of Nick, who wears Daniel's malaise like a second skin — and the soundtrack by Belle and Sebastian, which is perfectly pitched. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1aOK-4UmoM ZAPPA Not everyone can brandish the swagger and charisma of a rock star, but that might actually be the easiest part of the job. To truly earn the term is to genuinely stand out from the ever-growing crowd and, often, to become the kind of music icon that can be referred to with just a single word. Frank Zappa was that kind of figure. Almost three decades after his death in 1993 to cancer, he still is. His music isn't for everyone, but his talent is undisputed, and he has more than 100 albums (62 released while he was alive, and 50 that've hit stores since his passing) that showcase his efforts as a singer, songwriter, composer, bandleader and multi-instrumentalist. While he was alive, he also amassed an enormous archive of materials from across his career, spanning his work with his band Mothers of Invention, his collaborations with other artists and, of course, the 1982 hit single 'Valley Girl' that he recorded with his then 14-year-old daughter Moon Zappa. Combine all of the above, and you get Zappa. Lively, detailed and riveting, this documentary attempts the difficult feat of condensing Frank's life and impact into 129 minutes — and, regardless of whether you're already a fan or not, it does an impressive and engaging job. You could say that Alex Winter — yes, the star of the Bill and Ted franchise that's not Keanu Reeves — took on an easy task when he decided to direct Zappa. Thanks to all the footage, songs, clips and photos at his disposal, as well as the participation of Frank's family, friends and colleagues, he definitely wasn't short on material to weave into this wide-ranging chronicle. Candid chats, eye-popping claymation and home videos all feature, and the film zips happily from one to the other with enthusiasm. But great documentaries don't just splice together the obvious bits and pieces, then throw in a few left-field choices. They explore and examine their subjects, even when they're celebratory. And, in Zappa's case, they wholeheartedly interrogate a man seen as a genius by some and considered too out-there and inaccessible by others. There are moments in the film that prove both viewpoints. There are others that appear to veer off on tangents, but firmly showcase the breadth of Frank's musical experimentation along the way. In his sixth stint as a documentarian (with Downloaded, Deep Web and The Panama Papers among the other titles on his resume), Winter circles and leaps through his central figure's existence and enigma, and it's never anything less than fascinating viewing. If you're wondering what else is currently screening in cinemas — or has been lately — check out our rundown of new films released in Australia on November 5, November 12, November 19 and November 26; and December 3, December 10, December 17, December 26; and January 1, January 7, January 14, January 21 and January 28; February 4 and February 11. You can also read our full reviews of a heap of recent movies, such as The Craft: Legacy, Radioactive, Brazen Hussies, Freaky, Mank, Monsoon, Ellie and Abbie (and Ellie's Dead Aunt), American Utopia, Possessor, Misbehaviour, Happiest Season, The Prom, Sound of Metal, The Witches, The Midnight Sky, The Furnace, Wonder Woman 1984, Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles, Nomadland, Pieces of a Woman, The Dry, Promising Young Woman, Summerland, Ammonite, The Dig, The White Tiger, Only the Animals, Malcolm & Marie, News of the World, High Ground, Earwig and the Witch, The Nest, Assassins, Synchronic and Another Round.
Something delightful has been happening in cinemas across the country. After periods spent empty during the pandemic, with projectors silent, theatres bare and the smell of popcorn fading, Australian picture palaces are back in business — at present, spanning both big chains and smaller independent sites in Brisbane. During COVID-19 lockdowns, no one was short on things to watch, of course. In fact, you probably feel like you've streamed every movie ever made, including new releases, comedies, music documentaries, Studio Ghibli's animated fare and Nicolas Cage-starring flicks. But, even if you've spent all your time of late glued to your small screen, we're betting you just can't wait to sit in a darkened room and soak up the splendour of the bigger version. Thankfully, plenty of new films are hitting cinemas so that you can do just that — and we've rounded up, watched and reviewed everything on offer this week. FREE GUY If Free Guy was a piece of home decor, it'd be a throw pillow with a cliched self-empowerment slogan printed on the front. You know the type. It might catch your eye the first time you spotted it, but it'd look almost identical to plenty of other cushions you can buy at absolutely any department store. It'd make you think of other, nicer pillows, too, but its phrasing and design wouldn't be as resonant or appealing. And, while its attractive font would tell you to believe in yourself, stand out and make each moment count, it'd still simply spout the usual well-worn sentiments that keep being served up as store-bought tonics for weary souls. Yes, Free Guy is a big-budget, star-led movie that primarily exists to answer two not-at-all pressing questions: what would The Truman Show look like if it starred Ryan Reynolds, and how would that 1998 classic would fare if it was about massive online video games instead of TV? But, as directed by Shawn Levy (the Night at the Museum franchise), scripted by Matt Lieberman (The Addams Family) and Zak Penn (a Ready Player One alum), and drawing upon everything from The Matrix, The Lego Movie, Groundhog Day and They Live! to Wreck-It Ralph, Black Mirror and Ready Player One, this is firmly Hollywood's equivalent of mass-produced soft furnishings emblazoned with self-help platitudes and designed to sit on as many couches as possible. Cast for his generically affable on-screen persona — as the Deadpool and Hitman's Bodyguard franchises also keep trying to capitalise upon — Reynolds plays Free City bank teller Guy. His daily routine involves greeting the same goldfish upon waking, putting on the same blue shirt, picking up the same coffee en route to work and having the same chat with his best friend Buddy (Lil Rel Howery, Judas and the Black Messiah) when their place of employment is held up multiple times each day. Guy is completely comfortable with his ordinary lot in life. He knows that things aren't like this for 'sunglasses people', the folks who tend to wreak havoc on his hometown, but he doesn't challenge the status quo until he decides that the shades-wearing Molotov Girl (Jodie Comer, Killing Eve) is the woman of his dreams. To have a chance with her, he's certain he needs sunglasses himself — and when he snatches a pair off the latest robber sticking up his bank, it's Guy's first step to realising that he's actually a non-playable character in a video game. Sporting an upbeat mood best captured by its frequent use of Mariah Carey's 'Fantasy', Free Guy enjoys its time in Free City, which is also the game's title. There's a story behind its NPC protagonist's story, however, with the movie splitting its focus between its Grand Theft Auto-esque virtual world and reality. In the latter, coder Millie uses the Molotov Girl avatar, which she needs to search for evidence for a lawsuit against tech-bro hotshot Antwan (Taika Waititi, The Suicide Squad). She's certain that Free City rips off her own game, but needs Guy's help to prove it, especially as he starts breaking his programming, making his own decisions and becoming sentient. Read our full review. THE ICE ROAD They're called ice road truckers and, between 2007–17, they earned their own reality TV series on the History Channel. They're the folks who don't just drive while it's frosty, but steer big rigs onto frozen lakes and rivers in Alaska and Canada — using routes obviously only available in winter to haul freight from one point to another. And, they're the focus of The Ice Road. In his latest stock-standard action flick following Honest Thief and The Marksman in the past year alone, Liam Neeson joins the ice road trucking fraternity, although his character only does so as a last resort. A seasoned long-haul driver, Mike McCann has had trouble holding down a job ever since he started caring for his Iraq War veteran brother Gurty (Marcus Thomas, The Forger), who came home with PTSD and aphasia, and is also a gifted mechanic. The pair have just been fired from their latest gig, in fact, when they see Jim Goldenrod's (Laurence Fishburne, Where'd You Go, Bernadette) callout for help driving gas wellheads to a remote Manitoba site where 26 miners have been trapped by an explosion. It's a dangerous task, and one that calls for three trucks making the distance as quickly and carefully as possible. Mike and Gurty set out in one vehicle, Jim in another, and Native American driver Tantoo (Amber Midthunder, Roswell, New Mexico) and mining company insurance agent Tom Varnay (Benjamin Walker, The Underground Railroad) hop into the third rig, but transporting their cargo and saving the buried workers is a tense and treacherous mission. Much about The Ice Road will sound familiar to anyone who's seen Sorcerer, William Friedkin's stellar 1977 thriller about trucking volatile dynamite along a rocky South American road — which adapted 1950 French novel The Salary of Fear, a book that first reached cinemas via 1953's Cannes Palme d'Or-winning The Wages of Fear. This isn't an acknowledged remake, but icy, however. It'd be far better if it was, because the tension that ripples from simply driving along the titular route is The Ice Road's strongest element. In the feature's first half, after setting the scene for both the McCanns and the miners, writer/director Jonathan Hensleigh (Kill the Irishman) stresses the perils of trucking down frozen rivers. Bobbleheads placed on dashboards wobble whenever the ice threatens to become unstable, pressure waves shimmer and action-movie stress bubbles within the film's gleaming white images. That'd be enough to sustain the movie, but Hensleigh believes otherwise, which is where predictable double-crossing on the ice, among the stranded miners and back at company headquarters comes in. Even Neeson can't make the long list of cliches that fill The Ice Road's script entertaining, not that he seems to be trying all that hard. He's gruff and grizzled, and he yells, punches and fights for what's right, but he also just makes viewers wish they were watching him confront wolves in excellent survival thriller The Grey, or drive a snowplough in the average Cold Pursuit. Unsurprisingly, the rest of the cast fare just as badly, including the thoroughly wasted Fishburne and Midthunder, and Mindhunter's Holt McCallany as one of the miners. If you're wondering what else is currently screening in cinemas — or has been lately — check out our rundown of new films released in Australia on March 4, March 11, March 18 and March 25; and April 1, April 8, April 15, April 22 and April 29; May 6, May 13, May 20 and May 27; June 3, June 10, June 17 and June 24; July 1, July 8, July 15, July 22 and July 29; and August 5. You can also read our full reviews of a heap of recent movies, such as Chaos Walking, Raya and the Last Dragon, Max Richter's Sleep, Judas and the Black Messiah, Girls Can't Surf, French Exit, Saint Maud, Godzilla vs Kong, The Painter and the Thief, Nobody, The Father, Willy's Wonderland, Collective, Voyagers, Gunda, Supernova, The Dissident, The United States vs Billie Holiday, First Cow, Wrath of Man, Locked Down, The Perfect Candidate, Those Who Wish Me Dead, Spiral: From the Book of Saw, Ema, A Quiet Place Part II, Cruella, My Name Is Gulpilil, Lapsis, The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It, Fast and Furious 9, Valerie Taylor: Playing with Sharks, In the Heights, Herself, Little Joe, Black Widow, The Sparks Brothers, Nine Days, Gunpowder Milkshake, Space Jam: A New Legacy, Old, Jungle Cruise and The Suicide Squad.
Whenever 90s rom-com Pretty Woman comes to mind, Roy Orbison's song likely does as well. When the musical based on the hit flick arrives in Australia for the first time, you'll be getting Bryan Adams tunes lodged in your head, too. The Canadian singer-songwriter helped bring the Julia Roberts (Leave the World Behind)- and Richard Gere (The Agency)-starring film to the stage, penning the music and lyrics for the show — and during his latest Aussie tour, it's been announced that Pretty Woman: The Musical is finally heading Down Under, debuting in Brisbane. From October 2025, the late 80s-set tale of Vivian met Edward will roll into the QPAC Lyric Theatre in the Queensland capital, following a romance that's already fuelled a box-office smash as a movie, then premiered on Broadway in 2018 as a theatre production. If you've seen the film, you'll know the story, as an escort and a corporate raider fall in love — and you'll also know that it made Roberts a star, complete with a Golden Globe win, plus her first Best Actress Oscar nomination. Alongside America's most-famous theatre district, where it broke records at the Nederlander Theatre, Pretty Woman: The Musical has graced the stage in London's West End, plus Spain, Italy, Poland and Germany. "I'm thrilled Pretty Woman is finally in Australia, I went to see it last year and it blew me away!" said Adams, announcing the news. "I first saw this on the West End in London and just loved it, and knew immediately that I needed to bring it to Australia. I'm so excited to premiere this production in Brisbane," added producer Suzanne Jones. There's no word yet regarding the local cast, so who'll be following in Roberts and Gere's footsteps — and Laura San Giacomo (NCIS) and Hector Elizondo's (Mr Monk's Last Case: A Monk Movie) as well — hasn't been announced. Whether Pretty Woman: The Musical will head to other Australian stops also hasn't yet been revealed. Behind the curtain, Adams worked with his songwriting partner Jim Vallance, who he wrote 'Summer of '69', 'Run to You', 'Cuts Like a Knife' and 'Heaven' with, on the music and lyrics. Late filmmaker Garry Marshall (Mother's Day), who directed the Pretty Woman movie — plus Roberts and Gere's on-screen reunion in 1999 in Runaway Bride — penned the book with the OG flick's screenwriter JF Lawnton (Yellow River Christmas). Pretty Woman: The Musical will play the QPAC Lyric Theatre, corner of Grey and Melbourne streets, South Brisbane, from October 2025 — head to the production's website for more details and to sign up for the ticket waitlist. Images: UK tour, Marc Brenner.
Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols should never be far from anyone's ears — but there's listening to the iconic 1977 punk album, the only studio record from Sex Pistols, and then there's hearing it played live in full. Down Under in 2025, Australian and New Zealand music lovers will be treated to that very experience, with the group locking in a tour. Band members Paul Cook, Steve Jones and Glen Matlock are heading this way in April, as part of a project dubbed Sex Pistols Featuring Frank Carter. As the band's moniker makes plain, this is a case of punk figures joining punk figures, as first happened back in August 2024 for fundraiser gigs in London. Clearly the setup worked. This will be Sex Pistols' first trip this way in almost 30 years, since 1996 — this time pairing drummer Cook, guitarist Jones and bassist Matlock with Gallows, Pure Love and Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes alum Carter on vocals. The group have announced seven stops, starting in Auckland in Christchurch in Aotearoa, before playing Aussie gigs in Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Brisbane and Fremantle. John Lydon, aka Johnny Rotten, the band's well-known former lead vocalist, was last part of their lineup in 2008 — which is when Sex Pistols last toured before 2024. Hearing Never Mind the Bollocks live and in full almost five decades since its original release means hearing 'Anarchy in the UK', 'God Save the Queen', 'Pretty Vacant', 'Bodies', 'Holidays in the Sun' and more. If this feels like an incredibly rare chance to experience a slice of music greatness, that's because it is — and if you need any more motivation, Sex Pistols Featuring Frank Carter's UK gigs earned rave reviews. [caption id="attachment_986909" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Henry Ruggeri[/caption] Sex Pistols Featuring Frank Carter 2025 Australia and New Zealand Tour Wednesday, April 2 — Town Hall, Auckland Thursday, April 3 — Town Hall, Christchurch Saturday, April 5 — Festival Hall, Melbourne Sunday, April 6 — Hindley Street Music Hall, Adelaide Tuesday, April 8 — Hordern Pavilion, Sydney Wednesday, April 9 — Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane Friday, April 11 — Fremantle Prison, Fremantle Sex Pistols Featuring Frank Carter are touring Australia and New Zealand in April 2025, with ticket presales from 11am on Tuesday, January 21 and general sales from 12pm on Thursday, January 23. Head to the Australia and New Zealand tour websites for more details.
Initially, even getting just one COVID-19 vaccination was a struggle, after Australia's inoculation rollout took its time in its early months. Then, we all started focusing on those crucial second jabs, especially with roadmaps out of lockdowns and towards international travel highlighting double-dose thresholds. Now, with vax rates climbing quickly — as of Friday, October 8, 60.2 percent of Australians are fully vaccinated — third COVID-19 jabs have started gaining attention. Also called booster shots, they're designed to prolong the effectiveness of the coronavirus vax. And, they've just been given the go-ahead for Australians with severely compromised immune systems. For most Aussies, that means that third jabs aren't on the cards at the moment; however, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has now recommended booster shots for severely immunocompromised folks. Also, Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt has advised that they'll start being rolled out from Monday, October 11. "This is for the severely immunocompromised — a group of up to 500,000," said Hunt. "It's about providing additional protection." We're expecting to receive advice on booster doses for the general population in the coming weeks. With over 151 million Pfizer, Novavax & Moderna vaccines secured for supply into the future, Australia is prepared to provide booster doses if recommended by the medical experts. — Greg Hunt (@GregHuntMP) October 8, 2021 ATAGI has outlined exactly who falls into the severely immunocompromised category, and why it's making this recommendation. The group spans people with cancer, or who've had stem cell transplants or organ transplants; folks undertaking immunosuppressive therapies for cancer such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy or hormone therapy; others taking immunosuppressive therapies and some certain steroids; and those born with immunodeficiencies. If you're an Aussie who fits any of these descriptions, you might not be as protected by the regular two jabs. It's also recommended that an mRNA vaccine (so either Pfizer or Moderna) is used instead of AstraZeneca's jab (which is now called Vaxzevria) for the third dose. That said, the latter can be used if you had the AZ vax for your first two shots and you didn't have a reaction, or you've had a reaction to either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccinations. Timing-wise, ATAGI recommends waiting between two and six months after you've had your second dose, although a four-week minimum interval will be considered if it's likely your immunosuppression is about to get worse or there's a big COVID-19 outbreak. Severely immunocompromised Aussies can talk to their doctors about getting the third jab, with ATAGI's recommendations and guidelines now being sent to GP surgeries, pharmacies and aged care disability care settings. For all other Aussies who aren't eligible for booster shots yet, Hunt said that news is on the way. "The next stage, the general population stage, of the booster program, we're expecting advice from ATAGI before the end of October," he advised. For more information about booster COVID-19 vaccinations for severely immunocompromised Australians, visit the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation website.
John Sugar adores cinema. It makes sense, then, that the Colin Farrell (The Banshees of Inisherin)-led Apple TV+ series about the Los Angeles-based detective loves movies just as devotedly. Sugar is styled like a classic film noir. It splices in clips from the genre's pictures, other Hollywood-set fare and fellow retro titles, swinging from The Big Heat, Kiss Me Deadly, Sunset Boulevard and Double Indemnity to Sherlock Jr and The Thing. It watches Sugar watch flicks. It listens to him drop references to and wax lyrical about them in his evocative narration. It pays tribute to its influences eagerly — and it gives its audience a helluva post-viewing watchlist. Sugar is also set in Tinseltown, going all in on LA noir like many of the movies that it references — and also The Big Sleep, Chinatown, LA Confidential and Under the Silver Lake as well — with its tale of a PI looking for a missing woman. The show's namesake might be introduced in Tokyo, where he has the case of a yakuza gangster's kidnapped grandson to solve, but he spends the bulk of the series in the City of Angels on a gig that his handler Ruby (Kirby, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off) advises against. He can't say no for the ultimate cinephile reason: one of his film idols is doing the hiring. But from the moment that iconic movie producer Jonathan Siegel (James Cromwell, Succession) puts him on the books and in search of his granddaughter Olivia (Sydney Chandler, Don't Worry Darling), Sugar may as well be in a twisty flick himself. A cinema-heavy pedigree behind the lens brings Sugar to streaming queues, too. Creator Mark Protosevich made his debut with the script for sci-fi thriller The Cell back in 2000. Director Fernando Meirelles came to prominence, complete with an Oscar nomination, for co-helming City of God. Executive producer Simon Kinberg wrote Mr & Mrs Smith back when it was a Brad Pitt (Babylon)- and Angelina Jolie (Eternals)-starring movie, not a 2024 TV show, and has a wealth of X-Men titles on his resume. A mystery fan himself, he also produced recent Agatha Christie adaptations Murder on the Orient Express and A Haunting in Venice, executive producing Death on the Nile in-between. Speaking with Concrete Playground, Kinberg notes that this detective series that's also a genre-bender and a love letter to LA noir equally has character study in its list, crucially. "I'm hoping that the audiences fall in love with John Sugar. Definitely feel intrigued, and tense in all the right ways about the suspense and the mystery and the danger of the show — the things that we love about detective stories — but I think ultimately, I hope that they fall in love with how complicated and nuanced and ultimately surprising John Sugar is as a character," he says. "When I think about my favourite television shows — and often my favourite movies, but definitely my favourite shows — it always comes back to character. And I believe that the construction of John Sugar with the portrayal by Colin is something that will grip audiences and make them love the show." Sugar might be at the heart of the series, naturally, but there'd be no Sugar without Ruby. In the show's second-billed part, Kirby adds to a killer resume that's also no stranger to detective tales thanks to 2019's fourth season of Veronica Mars. The Good Place, Why Women Kill, Love, Killing Eve, Hacks and Barry all sit among her past credits — but none had her basically playing a take on a legendary page and screen character. "I was really excited by Ruby. I was excited for Ruby before I even read about Ruby. Ruby was pitched to me as 'Ruby is to Sugar what M is to James Bond', and I felt like I loved that description of that relationship, because I knew that it would be a relationship that was layered and that had shifting power dynamics, but also was strong," she tells us. We chatted with Kirby and Kinberg about the eight-part first season of Sugar, which is available to stream in full now. On the agenda: their initial responses to its premise, which isn't afraid of twists, surprises and veering into science fiction — and also Farrell leading the show, what keeps drawing people to mysteries, the research that goes into playing the righthand woman to a PI, what gets them each excited about a new project and more. On Kinberg and Kirby's First Response to Sugar's Genre-Bending Angle on Detective Stories Simon: "Mark Protosevich, the creator of the show, had written the first script. And so I read that first script and was just so drawn to a lot of things, but primarily Sugar himself as a character. I loved the combination of this chivalrous, strong, capable leading man side with this vulnerable, human, innocent, kind side, too. I just thought that mashup between different elements was really interesting. Then I liked a similar mashup within the tone between classic Hollywood storytelling, like very film noir, obviously detective storytelling, with something fresh and new and different and bold. So I fell in love with the pilot script, and we got involved at that point, and then brought in Colin and then brought in Fernando, and then built the whole show. But yeah, it was just reading a script where I felt like 'this is a voice and tone and character I haven't seen before'." Kirby: "I actually read the script after I had been cast in the role, so I came into this project with blind faith, which is daunting. But I think that knowing the creatives involved, it felt like a calculated risk. I knew that Colin was attached to it. He was attached to it as an EP and as an actor before I before I became part of the process. And knowing his body of work — I've watched Colin for a very long time, and I think that he is an actor that does incredible work. There's incredible quality and passion there. But at the same time, there is such diversity in the roles he's taken. So I knew that this would be a project that, if he put his name on it, it would be something that would be really exciting and really new. And then knowing that this would be a neo-noir, that piques your interest, because it's not every day that you tackle that, that there are people that can tackle such a huge concept. It's very high-concept to be able to do a noir, but then to make it feel contemporary, to make it contemporary, to have it tackle contemporary issues and have a contemporary cast. And then on top of that you layer in a brilliant director like Fernando Meirelles, and I think that you have a winning formula. So whether or not you've read the script, I think that it's a project that you can get behind very early on." On Casting Colin Farrell as Sugar — and Finding a Rhythm with Him On-Screen Simon: "He was one of the first people we thought of for it because he does have that duality in in himself as a man and in his work as an actor — which is, he is very leading man and gorgeous and charismatic and witty and strong, and yet he's also vulnerable and human and flawed and fragile and sweet and innocent. That is who Colin is as a person, and it is what he brings to the character of Sugar. And he read the script and and flipped out for it as well. We met with him and immediately could see that he not only could do it as an actor, but had a natural affinity for it as a person." Kirby: "Colin is very personable, he's amiable, he's incredibly generous as a human and that really translates when you start working with someone — because the easier your chemistry is off screen, the better it will be on screen, I have found. And so for me, I think just having a really good rapport with him —we spent a lot of time there, and the majority of my scenes are either alone or with Colin — just spending long days together, in your down time you're chatting and things like that, and I think that lends itself to what you see on screen." On Working Through the Layers to Ruby's Relationship with Sugar Kirby: "I think that they have a really beautiful relationship. They have a deep connection. They've known each other for a very long time. There is a lot of trust and care and love there. But at the same time, it's a relationship that is complicated, which it is always is complicated when you are in a relationship that is both professional and personal. You find that that adds an additional layer to a friendship that not everyone has experienced, and doesn't always understand how complex that can make certain decisions." On Kinberg Being a Detective and Mystery Fan, and What Appeals to Him About the Genre Simon: "I grew up reading detective fiction. Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christies were huge for me when I was a kid. And then ultimately more hard-boiled writing like Jim Thompson, James Ellroy, that whole generation of crime writers. I think there's a few things. One is I am someone who genuinely struggles with OCD, and there is an OCD element to detectives where they are really good at, and sometimes overwhelmed by, seeing clues in everything. So they're very attuned to the details of our world, which is something I live through. So there's that element. But the other part of it is, even when I was a kid, I looked at the world — and the world was even more this now — but I looked at a world that was chaotic, that had a lot of disorder in it. And I loved the idea that there was this sort of angel of restoring order. That detectives were there — and where, out of the chaos and muddle and mystery of life, they found order and they found truth. So that for me was always part of what was compelling about detective stories: that at the very end, there was going to be an answer, and it was going to be objective. And if you were clever and you paid attention, you could arrive there with the detective." On Thinking About Why People Are So Drawn to Mysteries While You're Making a Mystery Kirby: "I am guilty of it myself. I am very drawn to a mystery and to a documentary and a thriller, and things like that. But I think part of that is because there is so much that is unknown in our world, both on a huge, cosmic level, but also on a personal level. And I think that uncovering a mystery and figuring things out gives you a sense of control in a world that I think can feel often quite chaotic and quite out of your control. So I think that why people gravitate towards these stories is it feels very satisfying to ask a question and get a definitive answer. And these shows present something, there's a question, there is a mystery afoot, and when you figure that out you find the answer — and there is absolutely something that is completely gratifying for audiences in that." On the Affection for LA Noir and Classic Cinema That Sugar Splashes Through Its Frames Simon: "It's a huge part of the DNA of the show, this love letter to classic American cinema, specifically film noir stories. It was in the script — not the clips, the clips in the show were something that Fernando Meirelles and his editor Fernando Stutz [The Sympathizer, which Meirelles also directed episodes of] discovered in post. In the edit, they actually just started inserting these clips into it and it brought even more life into the show and made what was implicit in its homage very explicit. So yeah, it's a huge part of the show. It's a show that's for cinema lovers, but it's also for people that maybe don't know this genre of film and can discover it and learn about it by watching the show, and maybe it'll have them delve back into those classic movies. It was something that excited all of us because you were cutting to these old clips from old movies while juxtaposing them with something really modern and really new. And that juxtaposition, that dance between the old and the new, is very much at the core of the show." On the Research That Goes Into Playing the Righthand Person to a Private Detective Kirby: "For me, a lot of the research was researching the genre, because I am familiar with film noir but I don't have this film school encyclopaedic knowledge of the genre. So it was really helpful for me to take suggestions from Mark, and go in and watch Chinatown — and I had a book that was given to me at the beginning about the history of noirs and some of the biggest touchstones within that genre. That was really helpful, because I think once you start to know the tropes and the archetypes in that world, you can also start to subvert those characters and make them contemporary." On What Gets Kinberg and Kirby Excited About a New Project Simon: "A great character. It's always a great character. Sometimes people ask me this and I'll be like 'what would get you excited if you were at a party and you met somebody, a new friend, a new partner, whatever it is? You met somebody that you wanted to see again, they got you excited, and you went told your friends the next day — I just met this great woman/man/person last night'. It's the same thing for me when I read something or I hear about something, I'm like 'oh, that's an exciting person I just met and I want to spend more time with that person'. Because it's a lot of time that you're investing. Whether it's a feature or or a show, it's years of your life. So it always starts from character for me." Kirby: "Good storytelling gets me excited about a role. Creative people, creative collaborators get me really excited. So coming into a project where I know the way people work and I've seen their work, like this — I don't have to have seen this type of thing from the creators, I just have to have seen something that gets me excited. In this, knowing Fernando was attached, and being such a huge fan of City of God and his previous work, got me so excited. I think that sometimes we are in dire need of just good simple stories that that show genuine human connection — and then you can add all the other layers on top of it and that just serves to heighten the experience." Sugar streams via Apple TV+. Read our review.
