A Wes Anderson-Themed Bar Inspired by 'The French Dispatch' Has Popped Up at Cinema Nova
Stop by the photogenic Cafe Le Sans Blague to listen to French pop, eat pastries and feel like you've stepped into the film.
When Wes Anderson's films flicker across cinemas, their pastel hues dancing across the screen and their meticulous sense of symmetry looking like something out of an art gallery — the acclaimed director has previously curated his own art exhibition, after all — they make everyone watching want to step right into their frames. That's happened not just once or twice but ten times now, with The French Dispatch the latest example. Thankfully, to celebrate the long-delayed feature's arrival, Cinema Nova is bringing its detailed world into reality.
See the film at the Carlton picture palace, or just stop by for a drink — either way, you can enter Cafe Le Sans Blague. Cinema Nova has given its bar a temporary Anderson-themed revamp, inspired by his new flick. Yes, just like in the movie, there's a prominent 'no crying' sign, as well as a pinboard plotting out the The French Dispatch of the Liberty, Kansas Evening Sun's latest and last issue. So, you'll feel just like you've entered the offices of the movie's central magazine, and travelled to the very fictional French town of Ennui-sur-Blasé in the process.
The cafe takes its own name from one in the movie and, to keep playing up the theming, will be pumping out a mid-century French pop soundtrack. Getting nostalgic — even for a time you weren't alive for, a country you mightn't have been to and a city that definitely doesn't exist — is firmly on the menu here, as it is in Anderson's film.
Cover art from various editions of The French Dispatch also lines the walls, as does art by Benicio del Toro's character Moses Rosenthaler. And, you'll also spot other details from the movie, plus behind-the-scenes tidbits and nods to the rest of Anderson's filmography.
In terms of food, you'll be snacking on pastries and sandwiches, as well as the usual cinema fare — including themed black-and-yellow coffee choc tops. Drinks-wise, the Cinema Nova's regular beverage list is on offer, which spans cocktails, beer, wine and non-boozy options.
Cafe Le Sans Blague is just a pop-up, so you'll want to head in sooner rather than latter to pretend you're in an Anderson film. An end date hasn't been set as yet, but it will be sticking around at least until the new year.
Plus, if you get snapping while you're there — and then share your picks on Instagram — Cinema Nova will also be giving away The French Dispatch merchandise via the social media platform for the next few weeks.
Find Cafe Le Sans Blague at Cinema Nova, 380 Lygon Street, Carlton — open from 11am daily.
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