Peanut butter and blueberry jam. Vanilla creme and chocolate ganache. Lime curd with toasted meringue. These are just a few of the diabetes-inducing flavours that have earned Doughboys a reputation as one of the best doughnut outfits in town. For the past couple of years, Will McKenzie and his team of dough-fiends have popped-up in shared spaces, coffee shops and markets around Melbourne, spreading joy and tooth decay wherever they go. Now, in a piece of news that has us drooling over our keyboard, they've finally cut the ribbon on their first official store. Located towards the Southern Cross end of Bourke Street in the CBD, Doughboys HQ has been a long time in the making, with McKenzie teasing plans for a permanent storefront all the way back in May. Still, we have a suspicion that it'll all be worth the wait. Following a successful trial run on Christmas Eve, they'll be open for realsies on January 4. We might start camping out now though, to make sure we're first through the door. Designed by Studio Esteta, the store boasts tiled floors, high ceilings and ample display cases, so sugar-obsessed doughnut-lovers can press their noses against the glass. Small Batch Roasting Co. will be providing the coffee, and hopefully they'll keep up their partnership with Gelato Messina as well. Because if there's one thing better than a doughnut, it's a doughnut stuffed with chocolate fudge brownie ice cream. Doughboys Donuts is located at 535 Bourke Street, Melbourne and will be open for business from Monday January 4. For more information visit them on Facebook or at their website. Via Good Food.
Having said au revoir to the French Film Festival, it's now time to slip over the border into Spain. Returning to Palace Cinemas around the country, this year's Spanish Film Festival will once again showcase some of the biggest and most critically acclaimed Spanish and Latin American films from the past 12 months. How's that for a cinematic siesta? The festival — which will feature at The Astor, Chapel Street's Cinema Como, Northcote's Palace Westgarth and Kino in the CBD — begins with the highest grossing film at last year's Spanish box office: rom-com sequel Spanish Affair 2. Other comic standouts include espionage spoof Spy Time, madcap ensemble My Big Night, and dark domestic comedy Happy 140. Of course, not everything on the program is quite so light and breezy. Critically acclaimed drama Much Ado About Nothing confronts legal and political corruption in modern day Chile, while Ma Ma stars Penelope Cruz in one of her most nuanced roles to date, as a put-upon single mother diagnosed with breast cancer. Below, we've put together a list of the five films on the lineup that have caught our eye. For the full program, go here. https://youtu.be/K_NMyRjL8dM THE THIN YELLOW LINE This comedy-drama hybrid, directed by first time writer-director Celso Garcia, is a road movie, but not in the way you'd expect. The Thin Yellow Line follows a misfit group of five cash-strapped men tasked with painting the dashed yellow line along more than 200 kilometres of Mexican highway. You only need to take a brief look at the trailer to appreciate the film's gorgeous cinematography and bittersweet tone. If that's not enough to convince you, consider the fact that it's executive produced by Pan's Labyrinth, Pacific Rim and Crimson Peak director Guillermo del Toro. https://vimeo.com/131531005 THE CLAN Based on a chilling true story, this Argentinean thriller tells the story of the Puccios, a seemingly normal family living in Buenos Aires in the 1980s who made their living kidnapping people and holding them to ransom. The film broke box office records in Argentina, screened in competition at the prestigious Venice International Film Festival, and has scored plenty of positive critical buzz, with Variety comparing it to the movies of John Carpenter, Brian De Palma and Martin Scorsese. Consider our expectations set very, very high. https://vimeo.com/153227513 MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING Another true story from Latin America, Much Ado About Nothing is a far cry from the light-hearted Shakespearean comedy with which it shares a title. Instead, Alejandro Fernandez Almendras' film takes place in present day Chile, and follows a young man who finds himself framed for a fatal hit-and-run committed by the son of a powerful politician. A grim indictment of corruption in the upper echelon of Chilean society, the film received strong reviews and a Grand Jury Prize nomination at Sundance earlier this year. https://youtu.be/I8TiFAdvqLM EMBRACE OF THE SERPENT This year's closing night film floored audiences at Cannes and scored a 2016 Oscar nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Inspired by the journals of two separate Western explorers who travelled to the Amazon decades apart, Embrace of the Serpent is described in the festival program as "a breathtaking cinematic odyssey". With startling, unsettling imagery shot in hypnotic black and white, and dialogue spoken in over ten different languages, the film promises to be like nothing else you'll see at the festival — or indeed, the movies — this year. https://youtu.be/XIwPPoWPlmo NOTHING IN RETURN In Daniel Guzmán's Nothing in Return, 16-year-old Dario finds himself on the search for a surrogate family in the wake of his parents' divorce. Enter his best friend Luismi, a car mechanic named Caralimpia and a sweet little old lady named Antonia. At first glance the film looks like a fairly standard coming-of-age tale, but the fact that it scored a pair of gongs — for Best New Actor and Best New Director at Spain's most recent Goya Awards — has us curious to check it out. And as an added bonus, Guzmán is a guest of the festival this year, and will be on hand at screenings in Sydney and Melbourne for a post-film Q&A. The Spanish Film Festival will run from April 13 until May 1. For more information, visit the festival website.
Australia's creative industry is about to get pretty damn employed — the new Alien and Thor movies will be filmed in Australia. Announced by the Federal Government in a press conference broadcast on ABC News 24 today, the films will start filming in 2016. The Australian government is fronting $47 million so the two films can be made in the country. "What it means is 3000 direct jobs for Australians," said senator Mitch Fifield. "This helps develop skills, skills that couldn't be developed on smaller budget productions." When briefing the cabinet, Senator Fifield apparently got pretty excited about the fact that Prometheus had a character called Fifield, until ol' mate industry and innovation minister Christopher Pyne piped up, "He died." Sir Ridley Scott's new Alien film and Marvel's new Thor film will start filming in 2016. We're pretty sure the casts of both movies will be advised to leave their dogs at home. Via SMH.
Japanese tea rooms, erotic dance numbers and duets performed via Skype. These are just a few of the events you'll find on the program at Melbourne's second ever Festival of Live Art. Hosted by Arts House, Theatre Works, and Footscray Community Arts Centre, this two-week marathon of exciting and experimental art is perfect for people who have no interest in wandering aimlessly around a gallery. So from March 1-13, expect the unexpected. Blurring the lines between a litany of disciplines including dance, theatre, music, film, sculpture and even knitting, this year's lineup includes more than 50 different works produced by artists from all around the country and the world. Sydney artist David Capra — creator of the wet sausage dog scent — will be in town with his pet pooch to present his playful installation Teena's Bathtime, while Tamara Saulwick and Peter Knight have created an audio-visual piece titled Alter, made up of 16 carefully positioned iPads. And that's just the tip of the iceberg. So here's five events you definitely want to experience during the festival. With so many performances on the program though, we suggest you use this as a starting point from which to go forth into the wacky, wonderful world of live art. Top image: Hotel Obscura, Triage Live Art Collective, shot by Alexander Coggin
Your days of stealing liberating those tiny IKEA pencils may soon be coming to an end. According to reports, the Australian arm of the Swedish furniture giant will launch its online store by the end of 2016, ahead of a global e-commerce platform in the next two years. About damn time. Now here's hoping it's less stressful to navigate than their actual physical locations. Due to go live in the next six months, the online store will let shoppers order IKEA's unpronounceable furniture from the comfort of their MALM bed frames. The company plans to trial various pick-up methods, including smaller physical stores that double as pick-up points, as well as the use of third party depots. IKEA Australia hopes the web initiative will help boost profits, which, as it stands, are expected to pass the $1 billion mark for the first time later this year. Their online store in the UK is the most popular IKEA outlet in the country, presumably because you don't need to pack a week's worth of provisions to make it to the checkout. Speaking of provisions, it is currently unclear whether you'll be able to use the online store to order IKEA's meatballs. Fingers crossed though. Via The Sydney Morning Herald.
Good Food Month is set to hit Melbourne for yet another chock-a-block November. This year's hot ticket lineup pulls together a host of local, interstate and international culinary wizards, with events both big and small promising to send those tastebuds of yours to foodie heaven. The al fresco feast that is the Night Noodle Markets will return to Birrarung Marr, bringing with it the usual smorgasbord of live entertainment, chef appearances and well-loved food stalls, as well as a few tasty treats not seen before. New additions to Melbourne's Good Food Month calendar include a couple of buzz-worthy parties, like the Spring Social — a croquet and Pimms-infused picnic on the grounds of Rippon Lea Estate, featuring bites from the likes of Fergus Henderson (author of The Whole Beast: Nose to Tail Eating), Pope Joan's Matt Wilkinson, and Tivoli Road Bakery's dessert masters. Those keen to get their hands a bit messier can get stuck into a fried chicken feast at the Belles Hot Chicken Party, while ping pong fiends can grab tickets to a table tennis party of epic proportions at Supernormal. Aptly named Beer Pong, May Chow of Hong Kong's Little Bao, will be heading up the snack menu, and a couple of Australia's table tennis titleholders will be bringing their A game. Meanwhile, Mike Patrick, Duncan Welgemoed and Belles' Morgan McGlone will christen the new Fancy Hank's rooftop bar Good Heavens with their Southern Sunday Sesh, complete with a DJ, Coopers brews and some clever cocktails to wash down all those glorious Southern-style snacks. As usual, the Good Food Month program also boasts sit-down feasts aplenty, including Oter's five-course Young Chefs lunch, a pop-up from Brisbane's Gerard's Bistro at MoVida Aqui, and From The Vault — a Yalumba-matched dinner featuring dishes from six of Melbourne's most influential food legends. For the full program, visit goodfoodmonth.com.
For many moons, there’s been a secret passed around the ranks of students and young adults: Aldi sells $5 wine that’s actually not awful. In fact, those who’ve sampled it would know that ‘not awful’ isn’t strong enough. Now an official ruling body has declared what we young bohemians have known for a while now: Aldi’s $5 wine is objectively good wine. The Sydney International Wine Competition has announced its winning wine list for 2015, judging the top 100 wines from an entry pool of nearly 2000 and Aldi’s $5 bottle of 2014 South Point Estate rose has picked up a Blue Gold award in its blend category (just FYI the Blue Gold award is official proof that Aldi wine drinkers actually have good taste and aren’t just peasants). Aldi also won awards for their $12.99 bottle of Tudor Central Victorian shiraz and a $14.99 Blackstone Paddock “The Player” Barossa. So ner. So what do the judges look for in a good wine? Well firstly, the competition acknowledges that not all wines are created equal so they divide the plonk into categories according to palate weight – lighter, medium, fuller bodied dry whites (lol at wine terminology sounding like a sick burn) and dry reds. The wines are judged solo, then judged against other wines in each category. Then they pair each category with appropriate food and score on how well each variation complement the flavours of the meal. Then, and only then, do they aggregate the scores and hand out awards in each category. Check out the website to scope out the rest of the results and figure out the best and cheapest wine for your taste. But how do Aldi manage to sell an award winning wine for only $5? Aldi’s buying director told The Huffington Post that the secret is in the low overheads, a simplified range to cut distribution costs and understanding the young consumer. Oh Aldi, you do understand us. All we want in this life of sin is a $5 bottle of award-winning wine. We're just gonna leave this link to Aldi Liqueur online here, along with the fact that they deliver a case of 12 wines to metro areas for only $7. Merry Christmas, ya filthy animals. Via The New Daily. Image: Dollar Photo Club.
It's that time of year where you should probably start getting your New Year's Eve plans in order. To help you out, Beyond the Valley has a killer lineup for their celebrated four-day festival in Lardner, Victoria and it's pretty.bloody.good. Just two years old, the Victorian festival is fresh on the New Year's circuit, starting out in 2014. Despite this, they've managed to secure a rather colossal lineup featuring Hudson Mohawke, Phantogram and ZHU among plenty of others. The lineup has some solid Australian flavours, including festival favourites Sticky Fingers, Safia, Dune Rats and Alex Lahey, who absolutely killed it when she opened up Splendour in the Grass earlier this year. BEYOND THE VALLEY 2016 LINEUP: Alex Lahey Bag Raiders Bakermat Chance The Rapper Dena Amy DUNE RATS DZ Deathrays Eats Everything Emma Louise Giraffage GoldLink Harts Hermitude Highasakite Hot Chip Hudson Mohawke Japanese Wallpaper Jarryd James Jme Kllo Kölsch Ladyhawke Lastlings LUNICE Montaigne Motez MSTRKRFT Oliver Huntemann Paces Pachanga Boys Hippie Dance Phantogram Running Touch Ryan Hemsworth Safia Skream Slumberjack Sonny Fodera Sticky Fingers Thundamentals TOKiMONSTA Total Giovanni Vera Blue Wafia What So Not ZHU
"The things you own end up owning you." With that one memorable line, Fight Club's Tyler Durden became an unexpected forebear to the current trend for minimalism. But we've got news for you, declutterers and ascetics: even with all that absence of stuff in your life, the experts can still tell a lot about you as a person. Meet Sam Gosling, professor of psychology at the University of Texas and self-styled 'snoopologist' (good word, you have to hand it to him). He's the author of Snoop: What Your Stuff Says About You, a book that explores how we project our personality in the spaces we create, and also how the spaces we inhabit influence our inner lives. He literally spends his life poking around bedrooms, offices, wardrobes, cars — anything you think is private is Gosling's lab. Ahead of his talk at Wired for Wonder in Sydney, we spoke with Sam about interior decorators, capitalism and our definitely awesome book collections. Can you give me a quick rundown of what you’ll be discussing at Wired for Wonder? I’ll be discussing how people affect space and how spaces affect people — both deliberately and inadvertently. There are things we can do — obvious things — to try and signal something to someone, but there are also things we’re less self-aware of. It’s these things that I pick up on and use to reveal things about the person who lives or works or socialises in that space. Based on what you see in someone’s house, can you tell what someone’s political leaning might be? We did some research in the US a few years ago which produced some surprising results. I think most people think that people interested in the arts tend to be closer to the left. But we found art and books about art have no relation to political orientation. However, we did find that someone who has sports-related decor in their space is likely to be more conservative, politically speaking. That said, it’s not so much what someone's interested in, as the number of things they're interested in. On average, if you have a narrow scope of interests, you’re more likely to be politically conservative. What do you think about professionally designed interiors? They can work ... but only if the client is genuinely able to convey what it is that they really want. Most people are actually pretty clueless about what will make them happy. When it comes to interior design people see things in magazines or on Pinterest and go, “There! That’s exactly what I want!” But the problem with this kind of wish-list making is that it’s impersonal. I work with the architect Christopher Travis – he’s amazing, a real visionary. He doesn’t ask his clients to describe their dream house. He starts by asking things like, “Tell me about a time in your life when you felt protected, loved. Now tell me about the physical space you were in.” And people will say things like, “My best memories are weekends away at my grandparents’ house when I was a kid learning to ride my bike on the gravel side road.” He’ll then somehow incorporate gravel into the design. Then again, trying to replicate an interior someone found on Pinterest might be important to them because they want their space to be on trend. So Christopher will ask other questions like, “What is it you want the space to say to your friends? Who do you want to be to these people?” I saw In the Basement at Sydney Film Festival. It’s an Austrian documentary about what some people get up to in their basements. There was an older, childless woman who kept a collection of dolls in shoes boxes. They were those dolls that looked incredibly life-like. She nursed them like real babies. I felt sad that these people had to hide away their passions, that their home wasn’t really a place they could express themselves. The thing is, the home has both public and private spaces. People put very different things in the living room than in their bedroom or the guest bedroom. That’s obvious enough. People may hide things away in a basement because those things are shameful — they may not be ashamed, but they think others will judge them. The other reason is because most of us want a space of our own even if we live with other people. The garden shed is at the back of the garden because it’s full of clutter, but it’s also out of the way because people go there to disconnect physically and psychically from the people they live with. Book collections can be revealing. Of course, what you own doesn’t always represent what you’ve actually read. I'm always a bit suspect when I see a whole shelf of those orange-covered, new-release Penguin Classics. Right. Apparently there are more Ramones T-shirts in circulation than there are Ramones records! That is, if you signal that you like The Ramones people will think you like a fleet of other stuff and have certain values. Our music and reading materials are increasingly being digitised. What are literary types turning to to flaunt their cultural cred? It might be harder for literary types to flaunt their hard copy libraries, but for researchers, the switch to soft copies of everything makes it much easier to gather data. I don’t just look at homes and workplaces; I’m very interested in how people display themselves on social media, too. Of course, on social media you can signal to your community what you’ve bought or what you’re listening to. In an article about the rise of minimalist living in this month’s New Philosopher, Oliver Burkeman writes, “Minimalism might be little more than the purging phase of consumer capitalism’s cycle of binge and purge.” Do you think it’s a genuine revolt or just a trend? Trend. Sam Gosling is the author of Snoop: What Your Stuff Says About You. He will be speaking at Wired for Wonder, which is on in Sydney on August 26–27 at the NIDA Parade Theatre and Melbourne on August 28 at Central Pier Shed 14. Top image: Dollar Photo Club.
When you picture a summer cocktail, you'll often picture a big, colourful jug filled to the brim with summer fruit and citrus. But more often than not, this grand idea doesn't become a reality. It's hot in summer. Who can be bothered to devote time to complex cocktails? You want something simple — something light and refreshing, in a cold glass with condensation rolling down the sides. At Grey Goose's Boulangerie Bleue waterside mansion party this summer, one of the summery drinks served was the Le Grand Fizz — a refreshing combination of vodka with soda water, elderflower liqueur and lime. We asked Grey Goose's lively global ambassador Joe McCanta to show us how to make this variation on the classic vodka soda combination we know and love — so we can whip it up the next time a cocktail craving strikes us on a summer afternoon. It's simple to make. Just pop some ice into a glass, then add vodka and sweetness (in the form of St Germain elderflower liqueur). Top the drink with two wedges of fresh lime, and stir with freshly opened, fizzy soda water. The result is an easy, refreshing cocktail with citrus and floral flavours. If you've never used elderflower in a cocktail before, St Germain has a bouquet of soft, sherbet lemon notes, with pear and passionfruit. It's a floral liqueur that easily spices up a simple drink. Follow Joe, and learn to recreate the Le Grand Fizz for yourself this summer. LE GRAND FIZZ 45ml Grey Goose Vodka 20ml St Germain Elderflower Liqueur 3 lime wedges 3 wedges of fresh lime chilled soda water Build in an oversized cabernet wine glass with lots of ice. Add Grey Goose Vodka and St Germain. Squeeze two of the fresh lime wedges into the drink and discard. Top with chilled soda water. Stir and garnish with fresh lime wedge. Grey Goose Vodka's 'discover' function will tell you what cocktail you're perfectly suited for — answer four simple questions and start stirring. Dive into the luxury that your city has to offer — check out our Luxe Guide to Sydney and Melbourne. Food, spas, glamorous hotels and extraordinary experiences are waiting. Image: Steve Woodburn.
As the major galleries across Melbourne and Victoria continue to offer some of the very best in local and international art exhibitions, we're riding the wave underground for a peek into the local spaces pushing creative boundaries and celebrating art for art's sake. While Melbourne maintains a stellar cultural reputation that goes toe-to-toe with the likes of London, New York and Tokyo, it's the local art spaces presenting works from newcomers, emerging and celebrated artists alike, that spur on our city's love for art and culture. Here, we've chosen ten of the best free contemporary art spaces where you can see what keeps Melbourne's art world ticking. TINNING STREET PRESENTS Since Tinning Street Presents' beginnings in 2009, the gallery's focus on emerging and early-career artists has made it a hotspot for progressive, contemporary art. Throughout the year, Tinning Street Presents hosts a varied line-up of artists across visual mediums ranging from painting, photography, sculpture to film and performance. Brunswick's Tinning Street is lined end-to-end with likeminded galleries, workshops and cafes with Tinning Street Presents central to the creative beat embraced by the area. Now showing: Frances Cannon – Niceties until Sunday June 4. Coming soon: Noah Spivak – Eigengrau from Thursday June 8 to Sunday June 25. JUNIOR SPACE Having opened in May 2016, Junior Space is the newest gallery on our list. The dynamic space houses a retail area where you can pick your way through handcrafted ceramics, magazines, zines and prints from local artists and publishers, while the upstairs gallery space sees a constantly evolving selection of leading local artists. In celebration of their first year, Junior Space is currently hosting One — a group show exhibiting works from many of the gallery's favourite artists, such as Peter Tarasiuk and Nicholas Wilkins — until Wednesday, June 7. WEST SPACE West Space provides an important opportunity for contemporary artists to develop experimental works within a bold environment. An artist-led, not-for-profit organisation, their exhibition program sees a mix of open-call applications and curated projects. Despite growing in size over the years, West Space maintains its ethos of assisting budding artists by offering a rent-free space and, as of this year, paying fees to all artists in its program. See the program for current and upcoming exhibitions. BUS PROJECTS Bus Projects is another prominent artist-run initiative and has been dedicated to supporting interdisciplinary art practices for the past 15 years. Previously located in the CBD, Bus Projects moved into a Collingwood space designed by leading architecture practice John Wardle Architects in 2013. Their primary focus is on spatial art practices – bringing the gallery to life through immersive sound, installation and video exhibitions. Multiple exhibitions are currently on display, so head to the Bus Projects website to what's taking place now and in the near future. BLINDSIDE GALLERY Located on the seventh level of Swanston Street's historic Nicholas Building, Blindside Gallery features great sights both inside and out — containing outstanding contemporary art as well as some amazing views of Federation Square and Flinders Street. Blindside describe themselves as a place to "expect the unexpected", which is reflected through their carefully curated program of dynamic sculpture, performance and new media exhibitions. Arts writing is also a key component of Blindside's efforts, with each exhibition accompanied by texts contextualising works for visitors. Now showing: No Woman is an Island (group exhibition) until Saturday May 27. Coming soon: James Parkinson – Now You've Done It from Wednesday May 31 until Saturday June 17. C3 CONTEMPORARY ART SPACE Housed in the iconic Abbotsford Convent — a series of heritage buildings converted into major cultural and creative hub — c3 Contemporary Art Space features three large dynamic areas comprising six smaller rooms. Built nearly ten years ago by donated labour on a shoestring budget, c3 has emerged as a leading contemporary art space that features work by artists pushing boundaries in art, architecture, design, fashion, web-based art and more. Head to the c3 Contemporary Art Space website to see the current and upcoming exhibition program. CHAPTER HOUSE LANE Chapter House Lane is distinctly different to any other art space on our list. The space is situated next to St. Paul's Cathedral, with the art of emerging and mid-career artists being freely presented inside several large street-facing windows. The gallery chooses the work of artists that respond to the unique and creative space — in both its limitations and possibilities — resulting in numerous unconventional exhibitions and events. Now showing: Kate Robertson – Recording the medicinal plants of Siwai, Bougainville until Friday June 30 MARS GALLERY MARS Gallery, aka Melbourne Art Rooms, is an extensive three-level space that has promoted contemporary works by hundreds of local and international artists. Originally based in a former dairy factory in Port Melbourne, the gallery relocated a couple of years ago to a purpose-designed building in Windsor. MARS offers a massive diversity of arts programs and services, regularly participating in art fairs and commissioning public art projects. Now showing: As Long as the Night Is Dark, curated by Simon Pericich, until Saturday June 3 THE SUBSTATION The largest multipurpose arts centre in Melbourne's western suburbs, Newport's The Substation inhabits a 100-year-old electrical substation. Maintaining a raw aesthetic, its high-arched windows and towering ceilings make this gallery one of the most visually impressive sites on this list. The gallery aims to connect new audiences to the work of new artists, who respond to the unique setting, often through performance mediums like music, comedy and theatre. Now showing: Brooke Andrew – The Cell from Friday May 26 until Saturday June 10 METRO GALLERY Metro Gallery has long built its reputation on supporting new and established contemporary Australian artists. One of the first commercial venues in Melbourne to bring street art into a formal gallery space, Metro continues to evolve by working with artists across numerous mediums and from varied stages in their careers. Located in the trendy heart of High Street, Armadale, Metro Gallery has featured the likes of John Olsen, Michael Johnson, Adnate, Alexander Hoda, Tommy Watson and many more. Now showing: Lani Mitchell – Kind from Friday May 26 until Saturday June 10.
October. It's the month where the weather starts to warm up (well, fingers crossed), spring fashion sweeps through the city and we finally get that glorious hour of sunlight to fuel our after-work adventures. So what better time to start splorin' the CBD? Melbourne Festival is on and is taking over the city with a cavalcade of art and red webbing, there's a bunch of exhibitions (showing everything from Banksy's work to that of designers Viktor&Rolf) and a festival dedicated entirely to our preferred drink for this time of year: the G&T. Get amongst it.
Get your hands on some high quality art, craft and furniture, via a new online auction service that donates all of its proceeds to charity. Created with Care is the result of a partnership between maker community marketplace Handkrafted and artist-to-buyer platform Bluethumb. Launching earlier this month, the online auction room has recruited a select number of Australian artists and furniture makers, who are auctioning off unique, handmade pieces for charities of their choice. Visitors to Created with Care can currently place bids on five different items, including a 3D artwork by Erin Nicholls and Lars Laug, and a hand painted wooden bowl by Stephen Ziguras and Anne Ellison. A number of additional pieces will come up for auction in the coming weeks, with bidding on all items closing at 5pm on Friday, June 10. Nominated charities range from bushfire relief to animal rescue to asylum seeker aid. Current bid only $525... Furniture maker Ben Percy @benpercydesigns and artist Salleigh Olsen @salleigholsenart collaborated to produce this beautiful work of art - with all proceeds of it's sale to be donated to StreetWork, a charity helping young troubled teenagers turn their lives around. You can place your bid and explore more of the #CreatedWithCare16 collaborations we have curated together with @bluethumbart at www.createdwithcare.com.au Made by re-sawing solid American Hickory (donated by @britton_timbers) and as the seat and backrest are separately supported, the laminated legs 'flex' as individuals sit down. A photo posted by Handkrafted (@handkraftedco) on Apr 25, 2016 at 12:49am PDT "Every day I look at incredible art, yet these pieces are beyond my greatest expectations," said Bluethumb co-founder Edward Hartley. "They have set the bar for future artists and crafters." To see what's up for auction and to place a bid, visit www.createdwithcare.com.au.
The splish-splash of water isn't something you'd usually expect to find much of inside the walls of a gallery, but that's all set to change as NGV Australia pays homage to one of our great Australian icons: the swimming pool. Opening on August 18, The Pool: Architecture, Culture and Identity will explore this cultural symbol in all its glory, with the help of a multi-sensory, 11-metre pool installation, set up within the gallery's Design Studio. The free interactive exhibition will play with water, sound, light and scent to highlight the connection between culture, landscape and architecture. It'll look the real deal, too, complete with wooden decking and sun lounges — and visitors will even be allowed to dip their feet in for a refreshing paddle. This is the first time the installation has come to Australia after showing at the 2016 Venice Architecture Biennale. Further emphasising the swimming pool's link to our national identity, eight pool 'lanes' will each feature an audio excerpt from a high-profile Aussie figure, sharing their own nostalgia-tinged, pool-inspired stories. This will include The Slap and Barracuda (good pre-exhibition pool-related reading, by the way) author Christos Tsiolkas and Aussie rock god Paul Kelly, through to Olympic gold medalists Shane Gould and Ian Thorpe. The Pool: Architecture, Culture and Identity will show at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia from August 18 until February 2018. For more information, visit ngv.vic.gov.au.
Confetti cannons up, we've got something bloody huge to celebrate. Announced this morning, Concrete Playground has been nominated for a 2016 Webby Award, in the category of General Website - Cultural Blog/Website. Look, we're not pulling your leg, here we are, with fellow nominees VICE, Nowness, Jazz at Lincoln Centre and Polygraph. So we're drinking prosecco for morning tea, what of it? Celebrating their 20th year, The Webbys have seen the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences handing out top tier awards since 1996, celebrating "excellence on the internet including websites, interactive advertising, online film and video and mobile content." Along with our mates and website designers Canvas Group, Concrete Playground is now celebrating our first ever Webby nomination. Concrete Playground founder and director Rich Fogarty was understandably excited. "FUUUUUUUUUCK!" he said in a statement this morning. Fellow Australian/NZ nominees include triple j's Hottest 100 site for Music (they're up against Beyonce's official site, kudos), and Trusted Housesitters — based in Australia as well as globally — for the Community category. Best part of the Webbys? Once the nominations have been announced, the winners are internet-voted. So you can give us a hand! Used CP to find your never-fail date spot (with BYO)? Chase more waterfalls nowadays? Look, we told you what nap desks are, so show us some love and vote for us. How about some ol' fashioned incentive? We're giving readers the chance to win a cheeky $1000 from your good mates at CP. To enter, all you have to do is vote for us on the Webby's website, email us a screenshot of the vote confirmation screen to cpftw@concreteplayground.com. That's it. Get on it. VOTE FOR CONCRETE PLAYGROUND HERE
A killer cast play cops and robbers in a down and dirty crime thriller set on the mean streets of LA. Triple 9 — a film whose script once earned a spot on the legendary Black List of the best unproduced screenplays in Hollywood — stars Casey Affleck, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Anthony Mackie and Norman Reedus as a group of crooked cops trapped in the web of the Russian mob. Throw in Woody Harrelson as an embittered detective and Academy Award winner Kate Winslet as a ruthless crim, and you can see why we've been looking forward to it for a while. Australian director John Hillcoat is no slouch either, having demonstrated his gift for adapting grim, compelling subject matter in earlier films like The Proposition and The Road. Just don't expect many laughs. [competition]560811[/competition]
Fact: having great camping gear automatically makes you good at camping. Or, it at least makes you look like you know what you're doing when you're outside of the city. Whether you're a seasoned camper, just a beginner, or just someone who hits up music festivals occasionally and wants to be that friend with a quality tent — everyone could do with a little camping gear. Thanks to Teva, we've got a whole bunch of it to give away. Whether you're hitting up a music festival this summer, or just planning on a weekend away, getting your hands on this camping gear will make your life a whole lot easier. There are two pairs of Teva's classic Arrowood Boots, a water bottle, two camping mugs, a beanie, a hat, a tent, a sleeping bag and a National Parks pass. That's a lot of really handy stuff. Enter your details below, say yes to the terms and conditions and you're in the running to win. Entries close on Sunday, December 4. Go go go. [competition]595510[/competition]
Film festival season is well and truly upon us, with the Scandinavian Film Festival the latest to unveil their 2017 lineup. Taking place across July and August, the Nordic-focused movie showcase will bring 20 new features to Palace Cinema screens around the country. Heading to the festival after its Australian premiere in Sydney Film Festival's official competition, The Other Side of Hope will kick off the Scandi cinema fun with a big-hearted look at one refugee's attempt to start a new life in Finland. Directed by Aki Kaurismäki (winner of the Silver Bear for best director at this year's Berlinale), it's an amusing yet insightful look at an important topic — as well as an enjoyable way to get the Scandinavian Film Festival underway for its fourth outing. With the 2017 selection also boasting titles from Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Iceland, other highlights include World War II drama The King's Choice, which was shortlisted for this year's best foreign-language film category at the Academy Awards; biopic Tom of Finland, about one of the country's unorthodox international heroes; and closing night's A Hustler's Diary, which follows a petty criminal in the suburbs of Stockholm. Bittersweet romance One-Two-Three-Go!, Copenhagen-set arts scene satire The Man, stunningly shot coming-of-age effort Heartstone, and a theatrical version of popular Danish TV show 1864 also feature, as does Sami Blood, which explores the cultural oppression of Sweden's Sami people. Of course, because Nordic noir is everyone's insatiable genre pick since The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo became such a literary and film hit, the festival will also delve into darker territory. Audiences can get their brooding mystery fix with crime action-thriller Darkland, which has been compared to the films of Nicolas Winding Refn; black comedy Small Town Killers; and A Conspiracy of Faith, the third feature in the Department Q book-to-screen adaptations following The Keeper of Lost Causes and The Absent One. The Scandinavian Film Festival tours the country between July 11 and August 6, screening at Sydney's Palace Norton Street and Palace Verona from July 11 to August 2, Melbourne's Palace Cinema Como, Palace Brighton Bay and Palace Westgarth from July 13 to August 2, and Brisbane's Palace Barracks from July 20 to August 6. For the full program, visit the festival website.
Ever wanted to put a face to the gifted folk who create and curate your favourite online stores? A brand new pop-up in Melbourne, dubbed Cloud Street Store, is giving you the chance – just in time for Christmas. For a week from Tuesday, December 8, the street will transform into a mini-market. For the first four days, four retailers will be peddling their wares. Over the weekend, they’ll be joined by another six. So there won’t be any missing out for nine-to-fivers. If all things edgy and eclectic — from skull-parading t-shirts to tote bags bearing Oscar Wilde’s face to cushions covered in black panthers — are on your (or a buddy’s) Christmas list, you’ll want to visit The Club of Odd Volumes stall. Meanwhile, for furniture and kitchenware, check out Holy Funk Co. Its unique collection specialises in Scandinavian, industrial, retro and vintage designs. Christmas mania wearing you down? Take a moment out with Bellabox. They’ll be offering passersby exclusive access to a bunch of beauty products, news snippets, makeup tips and tutorials. Nearby, Kester Black will be keeping your skin clean and your nails smart with its range of ethically-sourced soaps and nail polishes. Kris Kringle, anyone? Cloud Street Store is the creation of Xero, an online accounting software company that’s passionate about helping online businesses. The store is popping up on Little Collins Street from December 8 to 13, open 10-8pm. Head to the website for more info.
Every month, Sydneysiders chuck out more than 500,000 disposable coffee cups. Given how much cheering’s been going on in reaction to the COP21 climate change agreement to transform the planet’s fossil fuel-driven economy, it feels like it’s about time we killed our trash habit, too. The good news is that a visionary company by the name of Frank Green wants to help us along. Founded in Melbourne, they’ve just expanded to Sydney and their business is the design creation and sale of SmartCups, which are quite possibly the most beautiful, well-conceived, reusable coffee cups you’ve ever seen. It’s not just us who are impressed, either – the SmartCup won the 2015 Good Design Award. The vessel is 100 percent Australian-made – every step of the way, from design to engineering to manufacturing – and an array of features puts it a cut above its competitors. It's made of premium, BPA-free, non-toxic materials, which are resistant to stain and odours, so you won’t get any weird tastes mixing with your Single Origin or Toby’s Estate. You only need one hand to open and close it, allowing for endless multitasking. And the lid is completely spill-proof. Add to that a double-walled, thermo layer to keep your brew hot; a non-slip grip; a flow-optimised drinking hole; the capacity to take regular and large coffee sizes; and loads of choices in terms of colours. Last but not least, you can actually pay for your coffee with your SmartCup. Frank Green and CafePay have got together to make this little slice of magic happen – the cup itself can facilitate secure cashless payments; keep track of your progress in loyalty programmes; help you find your favourite beans, café or barista; allow you to pre-order; and get you access to special discounts. Check out Frank Green's website for more info.
More films from Italy have won the best foreign-language Oscar than from any other country. The European nation took out the first-ever award in the category back in 1947, and last won with 2013's The Great Beauty, racking up 14 gold trophies to date in total. That's quite the feat to brag about — and if you're wondering what sets Italian efforts apart, that's where the Lavazza Italian Film Festival comes in. In fact, this year's lineup even features one of the country's more recent victors, with the World War II-set Life Is Beautiful screening on closing night. That's the end of the fest, though. Beforehand, the six-week touring event will showcase the greatest of the latest in Italian cinema. Marking its 18th year with 28 flicks, it includes everything from holiday envy-inducing comedies to playful takes on fate to straight-from-Cannes crime dramas and these: our five must-see films from the 2017 program. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJzZuoXZlR4 INDIVISIBLE When we say that 18-year-old sisters Daisy and Viola are joined at the hip, we mean that literally. The conjoined twin protagonists of Indivisible, there's nothing one does that the other doesn't witness, whether they're singing at weddings, being used as a donation incentive at their local church, or accosted by fans who want to touch their flesh. Then a Swiss doctor promises the impossible, and they start to contemplate time apart. Director Edoardo De Angelis turns the scenario into a sensitive and involving drama, helped by excellent performances from real-life, non-attached twins Angela and Marianna Fontana. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ii8L9umLsY0 COFFEE Most people don't just drink coffee — they can't get by without it. With that in mind, imagine how many caffeinated brews must've been consumed during the making of the movie that takes its name from the liquid substance. Our guess: plenty. Inspired by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's pre-Birdman and The Revenant Oscar-winner Babel, the film jumps into three loosely connected tales about folks connected to the awakening beverage, charting the exploits of a barista, a pawnbroker with an antique coffee urn and the daughter of a coffee farmer. You probably don't need us to tell you that you'll want to take a cuppa into the session with you. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGAIzwrRDLw SEA DREAMING GIRLS Life goals time: when you're a grandparent, here's hoping that you're as dynamic and carefree as the subjects of this documentary. Sea Dreaming Girls travels to the mountainous Italian village of Daone, where a group of nannas have been getting together for 20 years. To celebrate their big occasion, they plan a trip to the sea — a first for many of them. Their determination to chase their dreams is the stuff that documentarians' own fantasies must be made of, making for an engaging, heartwarming, amusing and inspiring film with plenty of heart. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kxTk4uDyb-k I WAS A DREAMER When an ex-con returns to his Roman home, he has noble aims in mind. Like many a person given a second chance, I Was a Dreamer's protagonist is eager to improve his family's lives, even if things don't always turn out as planned. What might sound like a routine, been-there-seen-that scenario seethes with realism, not only thanks to Italy's hefty experience in the genre — the country's neo-realist credentials go all the way back to the 1930s — but courtesy of its star. Fresh face Mirko Frezza plays the lead role and informs the feature's narrative, which is loosely based on his own life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2oDCkUjGin8 EMMA Couldn't make it to the Venice Film Festival, which just finished up on September 10? Us neither. Thanks to Emma, however, you won't have long to wait for one of the fest's titles. Featuring Italian star Valeria Golino, the romance tells of a recently-divorced blind woman's new relationship with a womanising ad exec, turning their exploits into a thoughtful drama. It comes to Australia just after its local release — and for long-time European cinema fans, it's also the latest flick from Bread and Tulips' director Silvio Soldini, which was the Italian film to see back in the '00s. The 2017 Italian Film Festival tours Australia between September 12 and October 25, screening at Sydney's Palace Norton Street, Palace Verona and Chauvel Cinemas from September 12 to October 8; Melbourne's Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth, Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Kino Cinemas and The Astor Theatre from September 14 to October 8; and Brisbane's Palace Barracks and Palace Centro from September 20 to October 8. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the festival website.
Away from the spotlight that shines so brightly on the hospitality scene in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, pubs in Adelaide have been left to develop their own identity, quietly amassing a swathe of excellent venues that cater for all manner of nights out. Whether in the heart of the metropolis, or a weekend retreat away from the city, the drink-slingers in and around the southern capital have carefully curated their approaches to drinking, dining and generally letting loose. Together with our mates at Hahn Brewers, we've come up with a guide to the pubs of Adelaide. Whether you're after a beer garden, a party, a drink by the water or a trivia night, we've got you covered. FOR A BEER GARDEN: ALMA TAVERN, NORWOOD There's a whole load on offer at the Alma Tavern, but the jewel in the crown for the Norwood venue is their spectacular beer garden. Set just below ground level, the outdoor area is peppered with comfy tables and chairs, lined with cushioned booths and adorned with festoon lighting and a few trees bringing a slice of the outdoors to the indoors. Just like the cultural identity of Australia, the Alma's menu includes influences from all around the world (get some orange and clove duck legs in your life). Grab a beer and sit out in the sunshine at the Alma — it's a foolproof beer garden option. FOR AN EVENT: THE JADE MONKEY, ADELAIDE The Jade has been around in one form or another for the last thirteen years, but its current home is at St Paul's Rectory in the heart of the city. It has always been a hub of local live music and a great place for a beer, but now it also hosts a wide array of events. Stop by on a sunny afternoon and you might find a music festival is going on. If not, there could be a pop-up cinema, a vinyl sale or a songwriting class. If whatever event is on at the time doesn't take your fancy, you can settle back in the garden with a beer for the afternoon and enjoy the peaceful surrounds. FOR TRIVIA: THE EDINBURGH CASTLE, ADELAIDE The Edinburgh Castle has become locally famous for its themed trivia nights. Many are television-based, with previous trivia topics being Friends, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Seinfeld, The Simpsons and Breaking Bad. Trivia nights happen inside the venue, but you should stick around afterwards (or you could come a little early) and grab a beer in the Castle's huge beer garden. Food options are classic pub grub and there's a huge $10 section on the menu. FOR A PARTY: PALAIS HOTEL, SEMAPHORE It's all well and good to head to a venue for a cheeky brew and a delicious feed. It's nice to soak in a good view and relax with some chilled beats. But, at the end of a hard week, or any other occasion you might fancy, sometimes you've just got to get dressed up and get down. The Palais Hotel is perfectly set up for mad parties, with multiple bars, an extensive drinks list and plenty of space by the beach. DJs play almost every night at the Palais, and their Australia Day and New Year's Eve parties are legendary. FOR A BEER BY THE WATER: RAMSGATE HOTEL, HENLEY BEACH Australians harbour a deep love for the ocean. We also love a good drink, so the ultimate combo is when the two meet in absolute glory — the beachside pub. The Ramsgate Hotel is a great pub simply because of its relaxed atmosphere and its proximity to the beautiful Henley Beach. When you're done visiting the churches and vineyards that populate Adelaide, there aren't many better things to do than enjoy a cold beer while watching the sun go down at the Ramsgate. FOR A ROAD TRIP: VICTORY HOTEL, SELLICKS HILL When the crushing hubbub of metropolitan mayhem becomes a little too much, there's nothing like escaping to the country for a quick recharge. If that's your go, the Victory Hotel have got you covered. The B&B sits atop Sellicks Hill and has magnificent views over Sellicks Beach and even into a bit of wine country. The menu is top-notch, but it's the wine cellar that truly takes the cake. Pair that with a couple of beers, a good feed and some darling cottages available for guests, and it's clear that an escape to the Victory is a real winner. FOR A BRITISH FEED: FOX & FIRKIN, TEA TREE GULLY Pubs, as we know them in this country, are largely thanks to the great British tradition of sinking ales and demolishing deliciously rich and filling combinations of meat, veg and carbs. Perfect. A decent British menu, however, can be a bit hard to come by, so places that keep the tradition alive are hidden gems to be revered. Fox & Firkin is a little out of town, but the food is definitely worth the trip. The menu includes British classics like Welsh rarebit or the beef and Guinness pie (complete with mushy peas), while also maintaining Aussie pub classics like burgers, seafood platters and the schnitzels that betray the hidden Germanic roots of the British Isles. FOR THE GAME: ARKABA, FULLARTON The Arkaba Hotel provides a great experience if you're into sport. It's the home of Sportys Bar and Arena, one of the premier sporting bars in town. The local Sportys takes their sport seriously, setting up the entire bar as an homage to spectating physical activity. There are plenty of TVs, tonnes of room and the bar is fitted out with all the knick knacks and wood panelling that is the stuff of man cave dreams. If you're after AFL, football or a good sport like rugby, Sportys has got it all. Sign up to Hahn Brewers and settle down with a drink this weekend. Top image: Ramsgate Hotel.
With hard-hitting dramas, imaginative comedies and a retrospective tribute to one of the all-time greats, the latest edition of the Alliance Francaise French Film Festival doesn't disappoint. Lighting up the screen from March 2-24 in Melbourne, the 2016 program features a diverse mix of titles showcasing the very best the French film industry has to offer. Below, we've put together a list of the five most intriguing films on the program. Lumière...Moteur...Action! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iespSNiOMRQ DHEEPAN The surprise winner of the prestigious Palme d'Or at last year's Cannes Film Festival, Dheepan is the latest film from director Jacques Audiard, whose previous efforts include Un Prophète and Rust and Bone. This new work concerns three strangers from war-torn northern Sri Lanka who masquerade as a family in order to receive asylum in France. A tale of intolerance and persecution, Dheepan feels particularly timely given the ongoing refugee crisis in Europe and our own troubled relationship with asylum seekers here at home. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OiOnxv30iHk IN THE SHADOW OF WOMEN Another major player at Cannes — where it was selected to open the Director's Fortnight category — this masterful romantic drama is directed by Philippe Garrel, a 50-year veteran of the French film industry. Shot in Paris in gorgeous black and white, In the Shadow of Women follows Pierre (Stanislas Merhar) and Manon (Clotilde Courau), a pair of married documentary filmmakers whose lives are thrown into turmoil when Pierre begins an affair with a young intern (Lena Paugam), only to discover that Manon has secrets of her own. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XZe5rrFDrM TAJ MAHAL The 2008 Mumbai terror attacks form the backdrop for this unsettling thriller, selected by film critic and festival patron David Stratton as one of the best films on the program. Stacy Martin (Nymphomaniac) plays Louise, an 18-year-old French tourist trapped in her hotel room as it comes under attack by armed gunmen. Setting his film almost entirely in the one room, director Nicolas Saada has been praised for his restraint, crafting a tense, claustrophobic picture that at times may feel a little too real for comfort. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmu6r2RHVDw MICROBE & GASOLINE From The Science of Sleep to Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind to his extensive career at the helm of some of the most memorable music videos ever made, director Michel Gondry is rightfully considered one of the most unique and imaginative filmmakers working in the medium today. His latest film is Microbe & Gasoline, a coming-of-age comedy about a pair of teenage outcasts who decide to take a road trip in a homemade house on wheels. Bring on the whimsy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wjDWnKTROI CONTEMPT One of the undisputed masterpieces of the French New Wave, Jean-Luc Godard's 1963 film Contempt is essential viewing for anyone who considers themselves a film lover. A scathing satire of the movie business and the conflict between art and commerce, the film follows a screenwriter (Michel Piccoli) adapting Homer's Odyssey for the screen, while navigating complicated relationships with his producer (Jack Palance), director (Fritz Lang) and wife (Brigitte Bardot). Contempt will serve as the festival's closing night film – and frankly, we can't think of a better choice.
And we thought reading was all headed for Tabletsville. Turning the book sales tide, Amazon has just opened its first physical bookstore, a first for the online retailer and an unexpected turn of events for book lovers worldwide. Opening this week in Amazon's hometown of Seattle, inside the University Village, the bricks and mortar version of the website comes 20 years after Amazon initially went live. It's just 510 square metres large — teeny tiny compared to colossus stores like the now-defunct Borders. Sitting on the shelves are titles that have wildly positive online reviews (most will be four stars and above), strong preorder and sales numbers, popularity on Goodreads and Amazon's own assessments. Each book will sit face-out (instead of spine-out) with an Amazon.com customer rating and review card, and the prices will be the same on the site as in the store. You can also test drive Amazon’s devices — Kindle, Echo, Fire TV, and Fire Tablet series — and buy eBooks instore, which seems like a pretty superfluous service (just buy 'em on your Kindle/tablet). "Amazon Books is a store without walls", said VP of Amazon Books Jennifer Cast in an online announcement. "We’ve applied 20 years of online bookselling experience to build a store that integrates the benefits of offline and online book shopping." Amazon Books is located at 4601 26th Ave. NE in University Village, Seattle. Open Monday through Saturday from 9.30am to 9pm and on Sundays from 11am to 6pm. Via Seattle Times. Images: Amazon.
In Melbourne's fast-changing restaurant scene, upgrades are always inevitable, even for a culinary institution like Andrew McConnell's Cutler & Co. So, after eight booming years, the Gertrude Street fine diner is looking at a timely revamp, shutting its doors yesterday and promising to unveil a new look and menu when it reopens mid-March. "Restaurant years are like dog years, especially in this town," says McConnell. "So I'm pretty happy to still be here; still receiving enthusiastic diners. But just because people enjoy it, doesn't mean that I can rest on my laurels. I have been looking at this space for eight years and I can see new potential for it, but it is very much an evolution rather than an revolution." Design for the new C&C space will be helmed by IF Architecture's Iva Foschia, who's come up with a fit-out to complement her previous work next door, at McConnell's wine bar, Marion. Foschia first sparked McConnell's attention after she pitched an early design for his Fitzroy butcher Meatsmith. Cutler & Co's new design will boast a trio of distinct dining spaces set around the existing Pilbara marble bar, including an open Chef's Table, a luxe dining room, and a front bar that'll be worth a visit even on its own. Think bronze details, leather chairs, slate-flecked stone and green granite. "When we were ready to press 'go' on Cutler & Co 2.0, Iva knew the processes, the scale of operations, the spaces and the people working in them," said McConnell. "I didn't want her piggy backing on Marion, but a re-design of Cutler & Co had to complement it, had to manifest our design DNA. In my brief to her it was also important that the front bar become a destination in its own right — a stand-alone venue that catered for the quick drink, a platter of fruits de mer, or an abalone tonkatsu sandwich." Meanwhile, there are some equally grand changes in store for the menu, with long-time collaborator Chris Watson (Luxembourg) stepping into the kitchen to help push Cutler & Co's culinary offering into its next evolutionary phase. Diners will still be able to feast their way through a splurge-worthy degustation or a la carte selection, though now there'll be even more of those share-friendly statement dishes, like a whole roasted, dry-aged duck from Great Ocean Ducks. Plus, with an eye to making that front bar a drinking destination in its own right, the team will be offering a separate, seafood-heavy bar menu — an exciting proposition given the quality of drinking snacks McConnell's long been dishing up at places like Cumulus Inc., Marion, and The Builders Arms. Cutler & Co reopens mid March. Marion will continue to trade throughout the renovation.
UPDATE: NOVEMBER 8, 2019 — Unfortunately City Loop's 2019 event has been cancelled. In a post on the Facebook event, the organisers said low ticket sales forced them to reluctantly pull the event. All tickets will be refunded. If you had some, you can catch three of the international acts — Shanti Celeste, Moxie and Peach — in a triple-bill gig at new CBD club Colour on Saturday, November 23 instead. Epic party throwers Soothsayer and I OH YOU are joining forces once again this November to bring the Melbourne CBD one seriously packed day party. Dubbed City Loop, the daytime shenanigans will takeover RMIT University's city campus for a second year, running from 1–10pm on Saturday, November 23. Fittingly, the ticket pries are fairly university student-friendly, too, with all releases coming in under $100. As to who will be playing at this sunlit affair, the party duo is bringing you some good'uns. Expect DJ sets and live performances — across two massive stages — from the likes of The Senegambian Jazz Band, Melbourne's Harvey Sutherland, the UK's Moxie and Canadian rave regular Peach. Plus, Australia's own Adi Toohey, Alta and Johnny Reebok will appear, too. Yup, it's going to be a big day out. Tickets to the City Loop party are on sale now, and we suggest nabbing yourself one sooner rather than later. CITY LOOP 19 LINEUP Adi Toohey Alta DJ PGZ Harvey Sutherland Jonny Reebok Memphis LK Moxie Peach Session Victim Shanti Celeste The Senegambian Jazz Band Willaris K + 14ct Aux & Quiet Blue Images: City Loop 2018 by Duncographic
A London architecture outfit has devised a smart, affordable housing option to help aid the city's homeless population. Occupying a previously vacant lot in the south London suburb of Mitcham, George William Court consists of 36 brightly coloured, prefabricated units stacked one on top of the other via crane. Throw down some wooden decking and hey presto: instant apartment block. The 26-square-meter, single-person residences were designed by Richard Rogers' award-winning architecture firm Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, who were commissioned by the YMCA. Construction took place in a factory in Derbyshire at a cost of between £30,000 and £35,000 per unit. Each apartment features a combined living and kitchen area, a bedroom and an en suite bathroom, and can be relocated to another site should the need arise. Hopefully that won't be necessary, however, since the tenants – mostly young people from YMCA hostels and the local authority housing list – have already begun moving in. According to Dezeen Magazine, Rogers believes there is space for as many as half a million prefabricated houses in unused spaces around London. " We've been failing to build enough housing," he said at the opening of George William Court. "The supply lags behind demand and buying becomes ever more unaffordable... We need to unleash similar building innovation across the capital or the same old business model will cause us to stay in the same old housing crisis." Rent will be set at 65 per cent of the local market value, which comes out to around £150 per week. It's still not what you'd call cheap, but by London standards it could be a lot worse. Speaking with Dezeen, Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners' Ivan Harbour said that "the principle here is to minimise people's outlay for their rent so that they can afford to save and eventually get on the more conventional housing ladder." Images: Grant Smith via Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners. Via Dezeen.
Want to sample some of Australia's most unique cocktails, rub shoulders with the bar teams that made them and feast on delicious canapes in one of Sydney's glitziest inner city bars? Australia's obsession with bar teams and their unique concoctions has been realised in a nationwide competition run by Auchentoshan, dubbed Distilled Different. Twelve of Australia's best bar teams have created a cocktail incorporating Auchentoshan American Oak — the only triple distilled Scottish single malt whisky in the world. They're going head-to-head to win bragging rights and a huge team trip to Glasgow. Before the winner is crowned, all 12 bar teams will appear in the national Dare to be Distilled Different photography exhibition. Their talented faces and creative cocktails have been captured by three up-and-coming photographers, all chosen by Art Pharmacy. It's a photography exhibition centred around bartenders and cocktails — of course there's going to be a big party. Auchentoshan are throwing a big launch for the exhibition on Tuesday, October 18 at Sydney's swish Gilt Lounge at the QT, and we're giving away 20 VIP double passes. You'll get to sample unique Auchentoshan cocktails, enjoy delicious food, experience the photographic exhibition, as well as the chance to rub shoulders with the crew associated with the project — including some of Sydney's best bartenders. Enter below. [competition]591029[/competition]
When it's so cold your fingers are stiff, you can't feel your nose and going outside seems as much of a challenge as running Tough Mudder, we're all inclined to reach for the radiator. Which is fine. But here are a few more creative, money- and planet-saving winter warmers to try first. DIY TEA LIGHT HEATER The suitably named Dylan Winter — journo, YouTuber and boat lover — has come up with an ingenious way of getting more than you'd ever imagine possible from your average tea light. He's able to keep his house warm for eight hours or so using just four candles, a bread tin and two flower pots. We have convection heat transfer to thank. Check out his instructional video to find out how you can DIY (and score a quick science lesson while you're at it). GET BUSY ON ETSY Etsy's creative types don't want to see you suffering any more than we do and quite a few of them have come up with the products to show it. First up, if the tiny cracks and crevices in your house are sending icy draughts your way, get your hands on a lovingly handcrafted snake, or equivalent. Those who aren't into handmade reptiles can opt for pretty much whatever they are into — be that cats, snowmen, crocodiles, tiger prints, abstract patterns or plain colours. Second up, keep your hot water bottle warm with a super-cosy, hand-knitted cover. SPICE UP YOUR LIFE For some reason, winter never seems quite so unbearable when you're holding a warm, mulled beverage in your hand. Hot toddies, mulled cider, mulled wine; these are your go-to buds over the next three months. There are plenty of top notch recipes online, all featuring glorious combinations of whiskey, rum or red wine with lemon juice, honey, cinnamon sticks, cloves, aniseed, vanilla, even chilli — seriously, give it a go if you're feeling both cold and brave. [caption id="attachment_231862" align="alignnone" width="636"] Yumi Sakugawa.[/caption] RECYCLE YOUR SOCKS - ON YOUR TOILET SEAT We really don't need to go into detail regarding the ins and outs of mid-winter toilet-going, but before you toss those holey, good-for-nothing socks in the trash, think again. If your toilet seat doesn't quite cut a full oval, you can slide a sock on each 'arm' and thus bid a warm and cheerful farewell to unpleasant experiences. For circular seats, try an old T-shirt or jumper. GET CREATIVE WITH CARDBOARD Cardboard is one of the most effective (not to mention cheapest) insulators around. So next time you head to a winter festival or sports match or just want to perch on your front lawn, arm yourself with a box or two. Lay the card out on the grass, throw a blanket on top and there you have an enviably toasty picnic blanket. Add a tarp underneath if the ground is wet. REWARD YOUR DOG WITH A SLEEPING BAG Earlier this year, Seattle-based designer Andy Storms successfully crowdfunded the BarkerBag. It's a tear-drop shaped sleeping bag designed especially for your dog. By zipping it to yours and strapping your friend in via a cinchable collar, you're in the position to take advantage of some serious doggy body heat throughout the long, dark night. Whether your best mate's a chihuahua or a German shepherd, there's a BarkerBag for him/her. It's available in small, medium and large sizes. GET OFF YOUR COUCH Once the cold's set in, it's ridiculously tempting to let yourself transform into a sloth — just ask black bears, ground squirrels, hedgehogs, wood frogs and box turtles. But the bad news is, despite extensive Googling, we couldn't find you on a hibernating creatures list — anywhere — so we'd think you'd best keep moving. An enthusiastic leap off the couch, five minutes of intense cardio or yoga and you'll be warm in no time. [caption id="attachment_231922" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Flickr.[/caption] FIX YOUR FAN Sure, you might usually associate your ceiling fan with warm summer days (*sigh*), but did you know that it can work in your favour in winter, too? All you have to do is set it to low and ask it to spin in reverse (i.e. clockwise). Warm air that's trapped close to the ceiling will be recirculated and sent downwards — where it should be.
Superheroes are taking over Brisbane — and if you're a fan, it's marvellous. Between May 27 and September 3, Marvel: Creating the Cinematic Universe brings caped crusaders, their costumes, props and the artistry that makes them soar — both on the page and on the screen — to the entire ground floor of the Gallery of Modern Art. Featuring more than 500 objects (including more than 60 costumes), the exhibition provides a peek behind the scenes of one of the biggest film franchises ever made. In fact, it's the largest amassing of Marvel movie artefacts of its kind in the world, ever. You could dub it a blockbuster, and you'd be right. Launching the exhibition, QAGOMA director Chris Saines was eager to explain that some of the items on display have Chris Hemsworth's DNA on them; however getting up close to objects touched and worn by Thor — including on the forthcoming Thor: Ragnarok, which was shot on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane last year — is just part of the fun. Casting your eyes over original and concept artwork, exploring the interconnected realm that has been splashed across cinemas for the past decade, and playing with the pre-and post-production techniques behind the movie magic are also on offer. Indeed, Marvel: Creating the Cinematic Universe endeavours to show that popular mainstream entertainment and art can be one and the same, especially given the level of detail that goes into both comic books and their movie adaptations. Walking through areas dedicated to the exhibition's three key themes — 'The Cinematic Assembled', 'Decoding the Universe' and 'Behind the Scenes' — delves into both individual and interconnected narratives, and highlights the creativity involved on a movie as well as an overall cinematic universe level. Along the way, you'll say "I am Groot" to giant humanoid trees, pretend you're a smart-talking racoon, peer into a yet-to-be-seen planet and star in your own Marvel poster too. Discovering the full collection is something best experienced for yourself, and, if you can make it to GOMA before September, here's five things to look out for. THE ASGARDIAN THRONE ROOM The eagerly anticipated Thor: Ragnarok mightn't hit cinemas until October; however Marvel: Creating the Cinematic Universe offers a glimpse of just what's in store (don't worry, there's no plot spoilers). You can't miss the giant, gleaming throne room that takes centre stage in the exhibition, and nor would you want to. Just look at it! Costumes and weaponry from 2013's Thor: The Dark World also feature. HULK'S BED Speaking of Asgard and its famous warrior, he's not alone in his next cinema outing. The giant green mass of muscles that is the Hulk is set to tear things up on screen — and, as you'll see here, take a rest as well. What kind of bed does the Hulk sleep on? This one. Saying that it's huge is an understatement — this photo really doesn't do it justice. Also on display are his weapons, which make Thor's mighty mjolnir seem absolutely tiny in comparison. IRON MAN'S SUITS He's the reason the Marvel Cinematic Universe even exists, and, in typical Tony Stark style, he gets his own room. It was back in 2008 when Iron Man demonstrated that the world wanted more superhero movies, and one of the suits from that pioneering flick lines GOMA's walls — alongside versions from 2010's Iron Man 2 and 2013's Iron Man 3. As you can see, over the years he's had quite a few upgrades. THE FIRST APPEARANCE OF SPIDER-MAN Spider-Man just keeps slinging his way into cinemas, but 57 years ago, he was only starting to crawl his way across paper. With the initial movie in what will be his third film series in the past 15 years due to drop in July, checking out the first piece of artwork to feature his image proves quite a timely experience. It might seem amazing now, but these kinds of things were usually thrown away back in the day — no one knew just what a big deal they'd become. DOCTOR STRANGE'S MIND-BENDING WORLD Every one of the 15 films that comprise the Marvel Cinematic Universe to date is represented in the exhibition — and, thanks to the forthcoming Spider-Man: Homecoming and Thor: Ragnarok, the 16th and 17th flicks too. Doctor Strange mightn't get quite as much space as some of the bigger titles, but the GOMA folks sure know how to make the movie's costumes stand out. With Inception-like visuals playing a bit part in the flick, expect to witness them in person thanks to some mirrored fun. Marvel: Creating the Cinematic Universe is on display at Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art from May 27 to September 3. For more information, visit the exhibition website. Images: Sarah Ward and Marvel: Creating the Cinematic Universe' Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane, 2017 / © 2017 MARVEL.
Laneway has come a long way since the early days of '05, spreading good vibes and great tunes from Melbourne to Singapore. Now it's back for yet another summer, with arguably one of its most eclectic lineups in years. From Tycho to Chet Faker Nick Murphy, we're feeling seriously spoiled for choice. Of course, with so much going on, figuring out what to see (and what to eat) can be a bit of a challenge. That's why we've put together a quick and easy guide to this year's Laneway Festival. Whether you're in Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne, these tips should hold you in good stead. [caption id="attachment_559317" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Andy Fraser.[/caption] LISTEN Well, you're at a music festival, so chances are you want to catch a few of the artists. Up-and-comers Julia Jacklin, Genesis Owusu and Tash Sultana seem destined to hit it big in 2017, so get in while they're still (relatively) unknown. Sampa the Great, Koi Child, Clams Casino, Mick Jenkins and the UK's Glass Animals all front one heck of a live set, and we guarantee NAO's 'Girlfriend' will go off. Speaking of which, expect Briggs and Trials of the excellent A.B. Original to have plenty to say, especially with the Brisbane festival falling smack bang on Australia Day. And whatever you do, be sure to catch D.D. Dumbo, whose album Utopia Defeated was named best Aussie album of the year by triple j — and quite rightly, too. [caption id="attachment_607112" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Laneway Festival.[/caption] EAT When it comes to grub at Laneway you've got plenty of options, with some of the best food vendors in each city jumping on board. In Brisbane, you can chow down on German sausage courtesy of Brat Haus, feast on vegetarian soul food from Govindas, and mack on mac 'n' cheese by Mac from Way Back. In Melbourne, your options include American-style barbecue from the teams at both Bluebonnet and Burn City Smokers, plus cheese from Milk the Cow and fucking hot poultry from Belle's Hot Chicken. Belles will also be on hand at Laneway Sydney, along with pizza from Happy as Larry, paella from Paella Time and sangas from Boon Café. That's just the tip of the iceberg, by the way: for the full food lineup in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney go here, here and here. [caption id="attachment_510542" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Andy Fraser.[/caption] EXPLORE There's plenty to discover at Laneway this year, no matter which city you're in. Each festival leg will feature a pop-up market and vinyl store, with scheduled signing times by various Laneway acts. In Brisbane, they're also hosting a Hottest 100 backyard party with Violent Soho and DZ Deathrays in attendance. In Sydney, meanwhile, a contemporary art exhibition will showcase the work of current and recently graduated students from the Sydney College of the Arts. There's even a festival podcast, if you want to get in the Laneway frame of mind ahead of schedule. LANEWAY FESTIVAL 2017 DATES Brisbane — Thursday, January 26 Melbourne — Saturday, January 28 Auckland — Monday, January 30 Adelaide — Friday, February 3 Sydney — Saturday, February 4 Fremantle — Sunday, February 5 Check Laneway Festival's website for more details and tickets. Top image: Andy Fraser.
The butt-numbing marathon that is the Melbourne International Film Festival has once again come to a end, but we're not quite ready to stop talking about the movies. For 18 days straight our critics devoured all the festival program had to offer, uncovering hidden gems and suffering through the worst of the worst so that you, dear reader, won't have to. From 3D sex epics to psychological thrillers and an early look at one of the mostly hotly anticipated Shakespeare adaptations ever made, here are our picks of the best, the worst and the most utterly bizarre films of MIFF 2015. THE BEST FILMS MACBETH On paper, the latest film adaptation of Macbeth has all the makings of a winner. William Shakespeare's tragedy of power and ambition has regaled audiences for four centuries; Aussie director Justin Kurzel showed he knows a thing or two about making moody, brooding movies with serial killer chiller Snowtown; and stars Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard are among the finest actors of their generation. On screen, this bubbling potential isn't just realised — it is exceeded in brutal, blistering fashion. Nary a piece of cinema this year will gift audiences with such a sensory yet stark audio-visual showcase while uttering such iconic monologues; however it is the tackling of the original play's sound and fury with raw energy and a western-like savagery and sorrow that truly lingers. Fassbender and Cotillard are breathtaking, as are supporting players Sean Harris, Paddy Considine and Jack Reynor. A finer film in 2015, we may not see — all hail Macbeth, indeed. -Sarah Ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eM2tblIkL4g TEHRAN TAXI Of the three films veteran director Jafar Panahi has made since the Iranian government sentenced him to a 20-year ban on filmmaking in 2010, Tehran Taxi is by far his best. Gone is the (justifiable) atmosphere of frustration and impotence that coursed through This Is Not a Film and Closed Curtain, replaced instead by a renewed sense of purpose and political resolve. Shot almost entirely within the confines of a taxi that Panahi himself is driving, this surprisingly light-hearted film takes us around the streets of the Iranian capital and introduces us to various colourful characters, including an illegal DVD salesman, a pair of superstitious old women and even the directors own quick witted niece. Thing is, not all of whom seem to realise they're in a film. By blurring the line between documentary and fiction in such a playful manner, Panahi is able to deliver an impassioned cry for social change. Rarely is a film so clearly important while also being so much fun. -Tom Clift THE LOBSTER After wowing arthouse viewers with the Oscar-nominated Dogtooth and the Sydney Film Festival-winning Alps, Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos makes his English-language debut with something that both is and isn't a little bit different. Here, he enlists a recognisable cast, including Colin Farrell, Rachel Weisz, Ben Wishaw, John C. Reilly, Olivia Colman and Léa Seydoux, to enact a situation that skewers society's penchant for pairing off; in other words, his players might have changed, but his fascination with slyly cynical exaggerations of societal norms remains. That The Lobster's story revolves around single folks trying to meet their match to avoid being turned into animals demonstrates the humour on display, but the film's beauty must be experienced to be believed. That the end product is as satirical as it is movingly sweet and wryly amusing isn't just emblematic of its shifting tone — it's a stroke of cinematic genius. -SW https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0E2Qh6wLS4 THE GUEST As late night genre films go, they don't get much better than The Guest. A follow-up their 2013 home invasion horror movie You're Next, director Adam Wingard and screenwriter Simon Barrett pay homage to the crazed war vet films of the post-Vietnam era with this intense, clever, hugely entertaining action thriller. Downton Abbey star Dan Stephens is simply brilliant as David Collins, a mysterious soldier who arrives on the small town doorstep of the Peterson family with a message from their eldest son Caleb, who was recently killed in action. But it soon becomes clear that there's more to David than he's letting on. Funny one moment, frightening the next, with a couple of fantastic action scenes thrown in, The Guest is the kind of movie that knows exactly what it wants to be, and nails it every step of the way. It hits DVD and VOD next month, so make sure to track it down. -TC THE BOLDEST EXPERIMENTS https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-S6xiie4RQ LOVE 3D Hands down the most divisive film of MIFF 2015, Love is the latest picture from provocateur Gaspar Noe, who previously shocked audiences with his gruesome rape-revenge thriller Irreversible before taking them on a drug-fuelled afterlife trip through neon-lit Tokyo in his follow up Enter the Void. Both those films are tough acts to follow, but this two hour 3D sex epic certainly delivers. Plenty of people hated this movie – and yes, some of the dialogue is unforgivably clunky, and the protagonist is one of the most unlikeable leads we've been burdened with in quite some time. And yet even its detractor's would be hard pressed to deny the film's visual panache, including what is for our money the most artful use of 3D since Avatar reinvigorated the format (and no, we're not talking about the 3D cumshot, although that's definitely memorable.) Whether it'll ever get another theatrical screening in this country isn't really clear, but if it does then you should jump at the chance to check it out – even if it's just to say you did. Just maybe leave the kiddies at home. -TC QUEEN OF EARTH After tackling sibling and romantic bonds in The Color Wheel and Listen Up Philip, respectively, writer/director Alex Ross Perry turns his attention to another kind of connection in his latest feature. In Queen of Earth, long-term female friendship is in the spotlight, with Catherine (Elisabeth Moss) and Virginia (Katherine Waterston) seemingly in the final throes of their bond. Over the course of a week spent at a remote cabin, their differences are heightened — as is Catherine's already-fragile emotional and mental state. The story might sound straightforward, as the BFFs fight and recall better times; however the ever-versatile Perry — his handling of internal battles as much as external conflicts, and his crafting of a claustrophobic character thriller — is anything but ordinary. Comes complete with textured 16mm cinematography, a haunting score, and equally demanding and devastating lead performances. -SW MOST WTF MOMENTS https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftOMkr9eYS8 SPRING When is a body horror movie not a body horror movie? When it's actually a deeply touching love story. Written and directed by relative newcomers Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson, Spring is a weird beast indeed. The film contains all the trappings of a gruesome creature feature, and yet it never quite goes in that direction. Instead, we're treated to a surprisingly affecting tale about a young American backpacker who falls head over heels for a pretty Italian girl, only to discover that she's harbouring a fairly significant secret. This low-budget production benefits from great central performances and some pretty elaborate makeup effects, but its biggest strength is that it consistently refuses to follow the expected path. A thoroughly strange but extremely gratifying flick that has us excited to see what the filmmakers tackle next. -TC RYUZO AND HIS SEVEN HENCHMEN In Ryuzo and His Seven Henchmen, legendary Japanese actor and director Takeshi Kitano ponders three questions. First, he wonders what a yakuza gets up to when his action-packed days are long behind him. Next, he applies the same query to filmmakers known for making yazuka movies. Finally, he explores what happens when both get back into the crime and violence game. The amusing, crowd-pleasing offering that results careens between kinetic laughs and outlandish action — as such a film should — as it attempts to answer all three concerns. Expect antics and insights to combine, even if the momentum of the first third can't quite be maintained. An effort that's perhaps less "what the fuck" than "why the fuck not." -SW DISHONOURABLE MENTIONS THE NIGHTMARE Back in 2012, Rodney Ascher made the conspiracy movie to end all conspiracy movies, with Room 237 delving into theories surrounding Stanley Kubrick's The Shining. What it lacked in polish it made up for in the affection it showed in indulging its subjects, and in celebrating its inspiration. Sadly, his latest effort — the part-documentary, part-thriller offering The Nightmare — is all pandering and no purpose, apart than repetitively rambling about and reenacting what sufferers of sleep paralysis experience. The concept is fascinating, but Ascher seems more concerned with scaring the audience — and referencing A Nightmare on Elm Street and Insidious — than actually exploring the topic. His purpose might be to make you not want to go to sleep, but his outcome achieves exactly the opposite. -SW https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kmOX11PdR4 THE ASSASSIN Taiwanese filmmaker Hou Hsiao-hsien took home the Best Director Award at the most recent Cannes Film Festival for his slow-moving martial arts drama The Assassin – and far be it from us to question the decision of the esteemed Cannes jury. Actually, scratch that. Sure the film may look pretty (although it's got nothing on last year's The Grandmaster), but that's little consolation when you're struggling to stay awake. The narrative, about a young female assassin in ninth-century China, is totally inscrutable, which wouldn't be as much as an issue if the characters weren't likewise. It's very difficult to care about anything happening on screen when you don't care about the people it involves. The film does contain a few impressive fight sequences, shot from a distance in a manner that emphasises the balletic qualities of martial arts. Ultimately however, it's nowhere near enough. -TC
In 2018, Melbourne will be set aflame. Sort of. For years, acclaimed French art collective Compagnie Carabosse have lit up iconic public spaces from Stonehenge to The Kremlin, bringing light and warmth to the cold dark night with flaming urns and fiery sculptures. Now the artists are heading our way as part of Melbourne Festival to take over the Royal Botanic Gardens for four spectacular nights. Accompanied by an otherworldly soundtrack, visitors will traverse the vivid landscape made up of more than 6500 fire pots, along with a 120-metre-long burning river. Tickets are $25 for entry at either 7.30pm, 8.30pm or 9.30pm each night. The festival recommends that you leave an hour to explore the garden, and there will be food and drink stalls set up for you at the end. Just don't knock anything over.
A new craft gin distillery in Sydney has begun production with a bang, after its Pozible crowdfunding campaign drew in $25,000 in under a day. The initial run of Poor Toms Gin sold out less than 24 hours after their Pozible page went live in mid-June, with pledges exceeding the label’s initial target by a whopping $5000. A second batch is currently available — although if recent history is any indicator, it might not be so for long. “We were really surprised,” admits Poor Toms co-founder Griffin Blumer. “We thought that we would sell the first batch over the month. But to sell the first batch in a day was really shocking, and exciting. We’re happy to see that there are lots of people out there in Australia who want a new, sophisticated gin.” Operating out of a rented warehouse space in Marrickville, Poor Toms produce a gin they describe as “distinctively Sydney". Distilled under veteran gin maker Marcel Thompson, it’s made using Australian wheat infused with ten botanicals, including green apples, lemon myrtle, camomile, and native strawberry gum. Poor Toms isn’t Pozible’s only boozy success story in recent times; last year Blood Moon tonic syrup took less than three days to hit $10,000. “Craft spirits have always done really well,” says Pozible spokesperson Claire Merquita. “But even so, it's rare to see a campaign hit its target as quickly as Poor Toms did!” “Pozible was a really good platform,” says Blumer. “Apart from a couple of my grandmother’s friends who keep emailing saying they can’t make it work, everyone else seems to understand what crowdfunding is, and see it as a way of giving a boost to a brand they want to see more of.” With fourteen days left to go on their campaign, Poor Toms currently sit at more than $48,000. Pledges of $71 will get you a 700mL bottle, while $136 gets you two bottles plus a Poor Toms legionaire hat. For the time being Poor Toms can only be purchased through the crowdfunding platform, although Blumer and his co-founder Jesse Kennedy plan to start approaching bars and bottleshops in the near future. To purchase your own bottle of Poor Toms Gin, head on over to their Pozible Page, which will be live until July 16.
The first thing you notice about the 14-year-old Amy Winehouse is her smile. Captured on her best friend’s home movie, it's enormous, almost all-consuming, a porthole to an as yet undiscovered virtuosity. With jagged and uneven teeth, the smile — like her accent — is imperfect and unrefined, as though everything had been hastily thrown together at the last minute. But it's also unmistakably real and a permanent fixture on the young girl's face. Over the next 90 minutes of Asif Kapadia's remarkable documentary Amy, what most stands out is not the prodigious talent, nor the substance abuse and self-destruction, but simply the steady fade of that perfect imperfect smile. Just like Kapadia’s previous documentary, Senna, Amy is an extraordinarily moving tribute to a prodigious talent whose life seemed somehow unavoidably foredoomed. With its remarkable catalogue of personal videos, voicemails and recording sessions, Kapadia lets Winehouse and her closest friends narrate her own tragic spiral in real time, taking us from the "gobby north London Jewish girl with a lot of attitude" to the death of a full-blown celebrity in 2011. It’s a masterful device, insulating the film from the inevitable accusations of bias and blame apportionment made by the very individuals who constantly comment and appear throughout. To be clear: Amy isn’t a whodunnit. Winehouse drank herself to death despite countless warning from doctors, friends and colleagues. Instead, the film reveals the extent to which almost everybody in her life failed to convert their concern into real action so long as the money continued to flow their way. "They tried to make me go to rehab,” she sang, and it’s true, but they didn’t try nearly hard enough. What’s abundantly clear from the archival footage is how well Winehouse understood her own predicament and disposition. “I’ve depression,” she explains at one point, “but so do a lot of other people. I’m just lucky because not many people can pick up a guitar for an hour or two and make themselves feel better.” True to the adage, Winehouse really was all about the music, and had she been left alone to sing jazz in small clubs, things may have played out very differently. The only person who seemed to fully grasp that was her idol, Tony Bennett, with whom she recorded a duets album shortly before her death. “True jazz performers don’t like crowds of 50,000 in front of them,” he explains, before adding in a heart-wrenching postscript, “If she were still here, I’d say ‘slow down … you’re too important’”. It’s moments like this that make Amy an overwhelmingly tragic and absorbing portrait piece, steeped in disquiet because, just as it was with Senna, you know it ends in a crash. There is, in fact, one last glimpse of a smile, right before the film ends. During her infamous concert disaster in Belgrade just weeks prior to her death, Winehouse sits down on stage, drunk and disoriented, amidst a chorus of boos from the crowd. While the band tries to get her to sing, an almost imperceptible grin flashes across her face, as though she’d suddenly heard the punchline to a joke nobody else could hear.
Vegans and lactose-intolerant folks, your ability to access iced confectionery goodness just leapt up a giant notch. Over The Moo, innovative Sydney creators of dairy-free ice cream, are set to launch their very own vegan ice cream truck. And, to celebrate, they'll be giving away free goodies. You heard us, free ice cream. If you're in Sydney, get down to the Over the Moo headquarters on Thursday, March 2 from 6.30pm to indulge. You won't be able to miss the 1981 Ford Transit truck, which has had a fun, retro makeover. At the launch, you'll be treated to beer, Prosecco or cocktails, accompanied by vegan cheese boards and dips. Then, of course, it'll be time for the sweet, sweet goodness to roll out. Gear up for sundaes loaded with brownie bits, cookie chips, gooey sauces and sprinkles — all entirely dairy-free. Also on the menu are classic cones (vegan too, "all the wow without the cow" according to the team), topped with Over the Moo's nine signature flavours – from Ginger Ninja Karate Choc and Matcha Made in Heaven to mmMangooo and Vanilla Bean Missing You. Once the launch is done and dusted, you can expect to see the truck popping up all over the place — fingers crossed for interstate road trips too. Whether you're making all the moves at your favourite festivals or kicking back at the beach, keep an eye out. Want to head to the launch? It's happening on Thursday, March 2 from 6.30pm at OTM HQ, 62 Glebe Point Road, Glebe. RSVPs required imthere@overthemoo.com.au.
Every day, worldwide, McDonald's feeds approximately 1% of the earth's population. Like a partially-digested chicken nugget entering your bloodstream, we'll just let that sink in for a moment. The Founder, by writer Robert D. Siegel (The Wrestler) and director John Lee Hancock (Saving Mr. Banks) tells the true story of Ray Kroc, a milkshake mixer salesman from Illinois who in 1954 stumbled across an innovative hamburger joint run by the McDonald brothers (Nick Offerman and John Carroll Lynch) and convinced them to franchise it into the 92nd largest economy in the world. Again, just let it siiiiink on in. Played magnificently by Michael Keaton, Kroc presents as a ruthless and relentless businessman for whom 'no' is just a soft yes waiting to be solidified. "Contracts are like hearts" he explains at one stage to the brothers, "…they're meant to be broken". And so it was that the McDonalds empire began to form, with or without the support of the two men to which everything was owed. It's a fascinating, heartbreaking story to behold. Offerman and Carroll Lynch are perfectly cast as a pair of brothers whose steadfast belief in the importance of authenticity and quality seems at once admirable and naive - not to mention antithetical to the very ideas that would eventually turn each of them into multi-millionaires. Of course, the fact that they only make millions, and not billions, is what forms the bulk of the film's story, as it catalogues the means by which Kroc manoeuvred himself into a position of unmatchable power over the pair via manipulative and underhanded yet entirely legal means. By the time "gentleman's handshakes" are being proposed, you already know how things are going to end, just as you lament the feeling that there's nothing else the brothers could have done to stop it. This is a slick production from top to bottom, beginning with Siegel's superb script and its equal measure of laughs and wince-inducing severity. The direction, too, is impressively restrained, allowing the performers and script to shine without embellishment. As in the recent Birdman, Keaton is the standout in a field of outstanding actors, bringing similar levels of narcissism to the role. His serpentine smile and darting eyes betray much of the Kroc personality before he ever opens his mouth. Do not be surprised to see Keaton's name appear on the nomination roll for next year's awards season. In all, The Founder is an admirable piece of cinema that's at once a character study and a history lesson, just as its lead offers an uncomfortable mix of bastardy and astounding foresight. You won't like much about Ray Kroc by the end of this film, but you'll be hard-pressed to deny his determination, business acumen or impact upon a world in which 62 million customers eat at McDonalds every day. 62 million customers. That's more than the population of Great Britain. So yeah…just let that sink in. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AX2uz2XYkbo
Looking for a fancy new dinner destination? Perhaps you've got a hot date lined up, have guests in from out of town or are looking to impress the in-laws. Whatever the reason, if it's stylish surrounds you're after, the winners of the fourth annual Eat Drink Design Awards have it in spades. Revealed yesterday at a ceremony in Melbourne, the awards celebrate the very best in hospitality design across Australia and New Zealand — although this year, the podium was crowded with Aussies alone. From a shortlist of 88 venues, eight took home gold while a further 26 received high commendations. Best Restaurant Design was awarded to Italian eatery Beccafico in Sydney, with the panel of judges citing "the unfinished joinery of recycled and fire-charred hardwoods, a sculptural beauty to the circular neon tubes that line the walls [and] a resort-like feel to the slatted boardwalk that bisects the space with wire-brushed timber banquets". The Best Cafe Design was shared by The Kettle Black in South Melbourne, described by the judges as "the apotheosis of cafe design right now — light, airy, spacious, where everything is carefully considered yet it all comes across as insouciant in the extreme," and Abbots & Kinney in Adelaide, commended for "the play between the radical simplicity of the overall concept and the extraordinary accomplishment of the execution and finish". Best Bar Design, meanwhile, went to Smalls in Melbourne, where judges highlighted "the colour and materials palette — moody, muted putties, flat blues and concrete greys offset by the occasional glimmer of glassware and brass," as well as artisanal touches such as "handmade ceramic tiles" and "open joined banquettes," and fine detailing seen in "marble tabletops, aged black leather and charcoal velvet upholstery". The remaining awards included Best Retail Design, awarded to The District food court in Sydney's Chatswood Interchange shopping mall (home to Tim Ho Wan and Hello Kitty Diner); Best Identity Design, awarded to casual Bangladeshi restaurant Bang Street Food in Sydney; and Best Temporary Design, awarded to the Australian Pavilion Installation at Cafe di Stasio in Melbourne. Last but certainly not least, Bondi's Icebergs was inducted into the Eat Drink Design Hall of Fame. Have a flick through the gallery for some serious hospitality design porn.
Foodies across Melbourne are counting down the days until Adam Liston (formerly of Northern Light) opens the doors to his next permanent venture, Honcho, in September. But if you're not one for waiting, you can catch Liston's cheffy magic over the next three months, at his winter-perfect pop-up, Honcho Noodle. Taking over the Bourke Street space at the foot of the Hotel Windsor, Honcho Noodle is here to warm your cockles with a taste of what's to come — namely creative noodle dishes, delicious drinking snacks and Asian-inspired cocktails. Split into 'noodles' and 'not noodles', the menu offers up clever interpretations of some Asian favourites. Think spicy Korean-style noodle soup with BBQ pork ($24), a rich spanner crab udon ($26), and flavour-packed chicken yakitori ($7). The minimal space is just as perfect for camping out over a bowl of noodles and a couple of Asahi Blacks ($10), as it is for after-work drinks by the bar, warming up with a half bottle of Aussie wine, some saké or an umeshu-infused Honcho Martini. Get those chopsticks ready, folks — this is one winter warmer that deserves to be put on high rotation. The pop-up will open from Thursday, June 2 through till the end of August, from 5-10.30pm, Tuesday through Saturday.
It may not have been the best decade for brick and mortar bookstores, but at least the ones that are left are still kicking major goals. This past Tuesday night saw some of the biggest wigs in publishing convene at the London Book Fair to award a slew of prizes, including the gong for International Bookstore of the Year. The winner? Melbourne's very own Readings Carlton. The Lygon Street institution beat out finalists from Italy, China and Estonia to claim the prestigious award, which aims to highlight "the absolutely vital role bookshops play worldwide in not only promoting new titles but also advising readers on the many excellent books already published but yet to be discovered." In giving the award, the judges commended Readings for "its community outreach, support of Australian authors and its help for non-profit organisations working on literacy incentives." "We're delighted and extremely honoured to receive this award. It's a reflection of the quality of Australian independent bookshops," said Readings Managing Director Mark Rubbo. The news was also greeted with a wave of positivity on social media, with many bookworms offering their heartfelt congratulations via Facebook. Readings is located at 309 Lygon Street, Carlton. They also have stores in Hawthorn, Malvern, St Kilda and the State Library. Via The Sydney Morning Herald.
Power chords may soon be going the way of floppy discs and VHS, with Intel unveiling a new wireless phone charger that can be built right into your wooden desk. The concept, which was revealed by the company at the Computex conference in Taipei, could mark a big step in wireless charging, with Intel hoping to have the tech ready for consumers within the next 12 months. Looks like IKEA has a wireless charging competitor. Intel's new concept charges your devices through magnetic resonance, according to Gizmodo. This is opposed to previous examples of wireless charging technology which pass a current directly through a surface, creating the unwanted side effect of heating up other objects that happen to be placed near the charging plate. Although the technology currently only generates enough power to charge a phone, Intel is working on advancements that would allow you to charge other devices such as tablets and laptop computers all at the same time. Wireless phone charging has been around on certain devices for some time now (and IKEA's new range of wireless charging furniture caused quite the buzz), but has previously been hindered by rival companies being unwilling to agree on a universal standard — meaning that you need different chargers for each of your devices. Once this problem is solved the technology could easily become ubiquitous, with the potential for public charging stations in airports, hotels, and cafes, as well as basically anywhere else where you’re likely to find a horizontal surface. Via Gizmodo. Images: Dollar Photo Club and AFR.
There's nothing better than treating your grumbling stomach with greasy cuisine after a late night of shenanigans. While a liquid diet is enough for some, for many a night on the town is not complete without tucking into something on the way home. The only criteria? Deep fried and crunchy. But where can you go after midnight without resorting to a soggy 7/11 sausage roll in desperation? Thankfully, a host of greasy do-gooders keep their doors open and deep-fryers switched on long past midnight. You'll never have to go to McDonald's again. CHILLI CHEESE FRIES AT LE BON TON A touch of class in Melbourne's late night greasies, this New Orleans-style eatery offers beautifully candlelit shelter from the night, complete with an oyster saloon, smokehouse, cocktail bar and an absinthe den. Fully licensed around the clock, the Collingwood favourite runs a limited menu until 6am — thankfully including all the deep fried snacks you desire. Try their legendary Texas-style chilli cheese fries, crisped to perfection with a very excellent cheddar dipping sauce that will definitely hit the spot. PICKLE DOG AT MASSIVE WEINERS After a 12 or a six-inch? Or perhaps you can only manage a three-inch Little Pecker? For some late night schoolboy humour, hot dog style, Massive Weiners is a crowd-pleaser — and they're open until 4am Fridays and 4.30am on Saturdays. The delicious hot dogs come with a range of extras such as sauerkraut, cheddar cheese, beef and bean chilli sauce and jalapenos. And while size isn't important, Massive Weiner does care for its non-meat inclined eaters and offers soy hot dog options as well MARGHERITA PIZZA AT CAFE ROMANTICA On the Brunswick end of Lygon Street, this late-night haven serves delicious and traditional pizzas right 'round the clock — in fact, the only time they close is between 5pm Monday and 5am Tuesday. Styled like an Italian version of an American diner, it's a family-run business that — perhaps unlike your own family — will welcome you with open arms regardless of the ungodly hour you decide to waltz in. For a token greasy meal, try one of their 27 homemade pizzas with plenty of toppings and a whole lot of stringy cheese. LAMB GIROS SOUVLAKI AT STALACTITES Some things taste better in the wee hours of the morning, and the humble souvlaki is one of the foods that transform into a magical sensation for your tastebuds when consumed past midnight. For a top melt-your-mouth souva, Stalactites is a 24/7 Greek institution that has been making a many late-night reveller happy since 1978. Expect a generous portion of Greek goodness, enriched in good ol' Vitamin G (that is, grease). PAN FRIED DUMPLINGS AND PORK BUNS AT CHINA BAR While other Chinatown restaurants sadly shut-up shop by 11pm, this bustling franchise continue to cater to your fried dumpling and pork bun needs until the after-clubbing hours of 5am. This enormous buffet-style eatery has every Chinese culinary delight to poke a chopstick at, from steaming plates of curry chicken or deep-fried dim sims. While the dumplings may not be as cheap as hidden-alley dumpling joints, they are still hot, fried and delicious. CHICKEN POPS AT BAM SAE NIGHTBIRDS With a menu section titled 'fried' you already know you can't go wrong here with your selection of oily noms. This aptly named 'Night Birds' Korean restaurant continues serving masses of night owls until 4.30am in laid-back surrounds, mixing fried treats with house-special cocktails. Chicken Pops proves a popular snack: deep fried chicken complete with a mixed salad dripping in sweet chilli and chilli mayo sauce. If a simple snack won’t cut it, the $29 all-you-can-eat buffet promises the ultimate greasy feast from spicy octopus, LA beef ribs and spicy chicken with cheese. CHARCOAL CHICKEN AT BELLEVILLE For a hot chicken hankering that no KFC outlet can ever fill, venture to Belleville, hidden upstairs in Chinatown. Cooked traditionally on a huge Brazilian-style rotisserie, this high-quality chicken will raise the bar on your bird expectations. Enjoy a quarter, half or full chook smothered with a delicious sauces in the bar and restaurant until 1am. MIXED KEBAB AT TOWN HALL KEBAB Perfectly located between the best drinking holes in Brunswick, this semi-permanent kebab stand offers a no-frills and no-nonsense approach to the delicious kebab. The one-manned hole-in-the-wall knows how to make a tasty kebab, pleasing late night stragglers with wrapped up salad and slow-cooked meats until 2am. As well as being enough to make your heart sing in delight, the obvious signage (reading 'Kebab & Coffee') is also a bonus for your tired eyes. Plus, Bordain went there. PIZZA AT LUCKY COQ After late night frivolities southside, duck into the cheap and cheerful Lucky Coq for an equally as cheap and cheerful pizza. With dim-lighting, electronic tunes and kitsch furniture, it's a pleasant venue to stop and recharge the batteries by hoeing into some greasy tucker. While the pizzas triple in price from their dirt cheap $4 price tag earlier in the evening, it's still the best place in Prahran for a vegetarian, meaty or seafood pizza right up until 2.30am. THE CLASSIC BURGER AT EMBASSY CAFE Park yourself in a plastic seat alongside cabbies, ravers and shift workers, and get your late night burger fix in this 24-hour retro-style burger joint. Praised widely for being a hangover cure, their burgers are also believed to be a hangover preventer — on par with water and Panadol. Treat yourself to the classic with the lot, topped with tomato, delectable beef patties, and rashers of bacon that are the perfect mix between sweet and salty. Images: Dollar Photo Club, Alpha via Flickr, kelami via Instagram, fatboo via Instagram.
From shark-infested waters to the catacombs of Paris, Airbnb isn't short of peculiar places where you can spend the night. But for anyone who grew up in the late eighties or early nineties, their latest listing might be their most exciting yet. As part of the marketing push for the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie, visitors to New York can crash in an apartment inspired by the turtles' secret lair. Located in lower Manhattan, the three bedroom apartment has been decked out with all the amenities a turtle fan could desire. We're talking retro arcade games, bunk beds and a glow in the dark basketball court, as well as free swag on departure and pizza delivery free of charge. Of course if this was a true TMNT experience it'd be located in a sewer... but we suppose we can forgive them for playing fast and loose with the mythology under the circumstances. Best of all, for every guest that makes a booking, the half-shell hosts will make a donation to PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center. Now the bad news: the lair has already been completely booked up. Bummer bros. Bummer.
It's been a long, long wait, but it's finally time for Dinner. After months of build-up (punctuated by bouts of anticipatory drooling by overexcited local foodies), Heston Blumenthal's first permanent Australian restaurant — and his first outside the UK — is due to start service next week. Here's all the information we have so far. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is located on the third floor of Crown Towers Hotel in Melbourne and will be open for dinner seven days a week along with lunch on Fridays and Saturdays. Like its two-Michelin-starred London equivalent, the 120-seat restaurant will serve contemporary food inspired by 500 years worth of historical British gastronomy. Standout dishes will include Black Angus rib eye with mushroom ketchup, and 'rice and flesh' (a starter consisting of saffron, calf tail and red wine). Head chef Ashley Palmer-Watts will make use of Australian ingredients and will also introduce certainly historic local dishes including a Heston-style take on the lamington cake. Tony Conigliaro will tend the bar, serving bespoke cocktails that reference the history between Britain and Australia. The interior of the restaurant, meanwhile, has been designed by local company Bates Smart (responsible for The Fat Duck Melbourne), who have incorporated a mixture of elements including wood, leather and iron. Guests will enter via a 20-metre dark wood corridor before being greeted by the dining room, decorated by custom-made porcelain jelly moulds, sculptures commissioned by Australian artist David Bromley and a mechanical moving art piece by UK artist Robert Higgs. An open kitchen will allow diners to observe their food being prepared, with chefs making use of the latest culinary technology along with pulley-operated spit roasts. Those wanting to get even closer to the action can book a spot at the six person chef's table, located inside the kitchen itself. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal begins service on Tuesday, October 20, with online reservations opening the same day. For more information, visit www.dinnerbyheston.com.au. Images: Bates Smart, Ashley Palmer Watts.
From the same minds behind The B.East, Globe Alley is an inclusive dive bar with a rock 'n' roll edge, free live music, good times till late and a solid spread of vegan eats across its menu. And, suitably, it's celebrating its first birthday with a lot of all three. After 365 days in the Chinatown space, the venue is throwing a huge free party on Friday, February 28. Expect tunes from the likes of Byron Bay's Dicklord, trio Bitch Diesel, pop glamers Smooth and heavy metal band Atomic Riot. There'll be DJ sets from Joegia Maq and DJ Ruari, too. If you get there early, and we suggest you do, you'll find $2 sliders and $5 Jack Daniel's and cokes, frozen margaritas and pots from 4–6pm. Oh, and free burgers, too. Yep, 100 free vegan and meat burgers will be available from 4pm — so, rock up early if you want one. Updated February 28, 2020
The Federal Election is almost here, and if you're anything like us, you're probably dead sick of politicians. From buses to billboards to your righteously indignant mate's never-ending status updates, it's impossible to look anywhere at the moment without catching a glimpse of some polly's grinning mug. And yet despite this, we can't say we're not a little bit intrigued by a strange new public art installation featuring those very same faces. A joint project between Instagram, Facebook and Walkley-winning Fairfax photographer Nic Walker, the Election 2016: Our Leaders series consists of ten moving image portraits that attempt to capture, however briefly, the unfiltered emotions of our nation's political leaders. The subjects, which include Malcolm Turnbull, Bill Shorten, Barnaby Joyce, Tanya Plibersek, Nick Xenophon, Anthony Albanese, Richard Di Natale and Penny Wong, were each shown six images chosen specifically to elicit an emotional reaction, which Walker then photographed at a rate of nine frames per second. "During an election campaign, you get the sense that politicians go into a mode where their image is very crafted and manufactured," said Walker. "This project was all about eliciting a very human response to remind people that love or hate their ideas, politicians are people too." The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald been publishing the portraits via Instagram, and the results are... kind of unsettling. A video posted by The Sydney Morning Herald (@sydneymorningherald) on Jun 28, 2016 at 7:01pm PDT A video posted by The Sydney Morning Herald (@sydneymorningherald) on Jun 28, 2016 at 6:59pm PDT A video posted by The Sydney Morning Herald (@sydneymorningherald) on Jun 27, 2016 at 6:49pm PDT A video posted by The Sydney Morning Herald (@sydneymorningherald) on Jun 27, 2016 at 11:30pm PDT What do you reckon the chances are they showed Barnaby a picture of Johnny Depp? If you want to see the portraits in real life, you can find them on display today only at Martin Place in Sydney, and until tomorrow at Federation Square in Melbourne. And please, for the love of God, remember to vote tomorrow. If the thrill of democracy isn't enough of an incentive, try using this map to find the best Election Day sausage sizzle near you. Visit @federationsquare for a series of 10 moving vignettes of "Our Leaders" captured by Fairfax photographer Nic Walker @nicwalker101. The 10 x portraits involved capturing micro-expressions over a nine-second shoot. Each politician was shown six images that were chosen specifically to elicit a reaction (we won't be revealing what they were, but you can have a guess). Nine frames were shot per second - 81 frames in all - so what you are seeing is reactions to images captured by the camera with no time for the subjects to consciously construct their expressions. 📸📸 A photo posted by The Age (@theagephoto) on Jun 30, 2016 at 5:19pm PDT
Wizards of drinking age have a new spot to drown their sorrows about You Know Who — there's now a Harry Potter-themed bar in Toronto. Named The Lockhart, after Hogwarts' cheesy fraudster of a Defence Against the Dark Arts professor, the bar is full of super niche HP references and enough wizardy bits and bobs to make JK Rowling ponder legal action. With less actual magic than The Leaky Cauldron or the Three Broomsticks, The Lockhart is run by two self-described Hufflepuffs (lol), Paris Xerx and Matt Rocks. Of course, it's not the first HP-themed bar in the world, but we're glad to see one more. The cocktail menu, while it's missing butterbeer (for now, they're coming) or Madam Rosmerta's famous mead, is full of themed potions like the Shacklebolt, Befuddlement Brew and Ludo's Debt. There's also a cocktail on the menu which you can have for free if you can figure out the seriously niche HP ref. Dare to try the potions & elixirs on the cocktail menu at Harry Potter themed @thelockhartto? #newrestaurants #toronto #harrypotter A photo posted by Toronto.com (@torontodotcom) on Sep 9, 2015 at 2:26pm PDT The food menu hasn't a Harry Potter reference at all. No Bertie Bott's? No Cauldron Cakes? No self-propelling custard pie? This is bit of an opportunity lost here. Design-wise, the bar is truly subtle, looking more like a regular casual, cocktail bar than a Disneyland-like novelty bar. The Lockhart, instead, is full of obscure references for serious fans. You can find the Deathly Hallows sign hidden in the bar, a little apothecary, and there's a big neon sign glowing with the famously terrible last line, "All was well." Ugh. So if you're flying to Toronto, apparating or using the floo network, pop in to The Lockhart. Just be wary of cloaked strangers happy to part with dragon eggs in poker. hey it's wednesday A photo posted by robyn hoja (@rohojahoja) on Sep 9, 2015 at 5:06pm PDT Serving our full menu this evening. Specialty popcorn tonight is a sweet and savory, lightly buttered popcorn with Cadbury chocolate drizzle. Yummmmay. A photo posted by The Lockhart Bar (@thelockhartto) on Sep 10, 2015 at 1:21pm PDT Via The AV Club.
Asylum seekers, drone warfare, women's rights and the environment are just a few of the issues under the microscope at this year's Human Rights Arts and Film Festival. With its main arm returning to ACMI in Melbourne (as well as a condensed program for other Australian cities), the latest edition of this socially conscious festival is sure to get audiences all fired up. Kicking off on Thursday, May 5, the festival begins with the Australian premiere of Chasing Asylum, a confronting and extremely timely look at mandatory detention from Oscar-winning filmmaker Eva Orner. Other highlights include Sundance prize winner The Bad Kids, about at risk high school kids in the Mojave desert, and Prison Songs, Australia's first ever musical documentary about the inmates of the Northern Territory's notorious Berrimah Prison. Audiences in Melbourne will also get the chance to catch a whole heap of special screenings, ranging from a selection of African heritage cinema curated by the Melbourne Cinematheque, to a special screening of The Pearl Button with a live original score by Dirty Three guitarist Mick Turner.
