It's very slowly warming up in Melbourne which heralds the coming of our favourite annual event — Melbourne Music Week. The 2016 lineup has got us collectively buzzing for summer nights, cold beers and sweaty gigs. As usual, the citywide festival has rolled out some unbelievable crispy shows to satisfy all music tastes. Running November 11-19, MMW will open with a bang with an all women lineup at Her Sound, Her Story. The event, appropriately hosted in Queen's Hall in the State Library (the already-announced MMW hub), will feature Julia Stone, Ella Hooper, Mama Kin, Montaigne, Mojo Juju, Ecca Vandal, Elizabeth Rose, Airling and Nyne. Then there's Aunty Donna and the Jungle Giants, who'll be performing on the steps of Parliament House, 1950s pin-up girl group Bobby and the Pins will be giving musical tours of Fitzroy Gardens, The Delta Riggs and Pierce Bothers will front a mini music festival at the MCG, and the Drones will play the grand organ at Melbourne Town Hall. That's not all though. We'll also be treated to performances by the likes of Elliphant (supported by Yeo and Uv Boi), The Harpoons and Tyrannamen at ACCA, Severed Heads, Harvey Sutherland and Bermuda and Young Magic in the State Library, and Zola Jesus and Penny Quartet at the Melbourne Recital Centre to name but a few. As usual, they're also putting on some killer workshops for noobs and musos alike, including how to make your on crystal radio (whatever that turns out to be), a choir singing workshop, make your own synth and speakers workshop and an introduction to Ableton Live. The whole shmozzle will be wrapped with big ol' shindig thrown by party people Good Manners. Now if this laundry list of fine tunes doesn't put you in the mood for summer, there's literally nothing that will.
"Abbe May plays a scorching guitar — she is the f***ing s**t!" -Nic Harcout, MTV USA Still riding high after the tremendous success of 2011's Design Desire, one of Australia's most criminally under-appreciated artists is back with a brand-new album. And she's launching it by way of a national tour, heading to every state to seduce you firsthand. Or maybe punch you in the face. Or maybe even seduce you by punching you in the face. Abbe May might come from a tiny coastal town in the very southwest of WA, but over the course of four records she has built herself up to the precipice of world domination. Her last album was nominated for the Australian Music Prize and was roundly praised by nearly every person with ears who heard it, its dark, gnarly guitars oozing sultriness, her voice shining in the darkness like a switchblade at midnight. But May promises surprises on her new album, abandoning the '70s-psych influence of Design Desire in favour of "synth-driven doom pop". As May herself declares, "Kiss My Apocalypse is unashamedly sexual and would almost be romantic if it weren't for the vitriol." "Pop is sexy when done well and it's incredibly difficult to do it well if you try too hard," she says. "We wanted to get away from music that took itself too seriously. I'm so tired of this whole shoe gaze, it-cost-a-lot-of-money-to get-a-haircut-that-looks-like-I-haven't-brushed-my-hair-in-months type shit. 'Artists' in denial that they are basically just entertainers. Being an entertainer is more meaningful if you ask me. It's not such a selfish pursuit." For almost any other artist, a major shift in sound away from the most successful album of your career would be a death sentence, crippling you just as you were poised to make a real splash. But Abbe May isn't just any artist. And when you consider that her first two albums drew heavily from (a) Deep South devil blues, then (b) Hawaiian-inspired rockabilly, a fourth major shift on her fourth album could be just what we were all waiting for. https://youtube.com/watch?v=bDJx-yLk3d0
You're invited to experience the Royal Botanic Gardens as never before, when it plays host to an immersive sound and video installation, titled Crawl Me Blood, later this month. Brought to life by Melbourne artist collective Aphids — as part of the Melbourne Writers Festival, from August 29 to September 1 — the roaming nighttime production debuted in the Royal Tasmanian Botanic Gardens in Hobart earlier this year. It's inspired by Caribbean author Jean Rhys' novel Wide Sargasso Sea and is named after a Caribbean phrase that means 'the secrets that you sense but are not told'. Here, audiences will dive deep into an exploration of race and identity. You'll get an FM transistor radio, a map and some Dutch courage (i.e. rum), then be led through a series of scenes unfolding across the gardens. Imagined in the form of a radio drama, the work shares the story of a young Aussie woman traveling to the Caribbean for her grandmother's funeral, and will be performed by a group of artists that all have ties to the to the Caribbean region. Expect plenty of visual delights and a soundtrack packed with dancehall, ragga and calypso tunes. Intrigued? You can watch a teaser for the installation here. Images: Bryony Jackson
It's not like you need an excuse to embark on a cosy, autumn weekend getaway, but here's one all the same: the inaugural Ballarat Beer Hop is dishing up a day of Easter fun for grown-ups, on Saturday, April 20. You'll forget all about those chocolate eggs and hot cross buns, when 12 of the state's best-loved breweries and six local winemaking legends descend on the regional town, taking over six of its star venues. Local hot-spots The Mallow, Campana's, Hop Temple, Freight Bar, Housey Housey and PWTN will each host two breweries and a winery, setting the scene for a roving tasting tour — basically, the Easter egg hunt of your big kid dreams. For their $40 ticket, guests will each score a Beer Hop tasting glass and 18 sampler tokens, to try beers and wines from the likes of Two Birds, Red Duck, Hop Nation, Cubby Haus, Dollar Bill and Federation University. To match those brews, there'll be plenty of entertainment throughout the day, as well as top-notch eats on offer at each venue.
If you like your weekend brunch feasts but you also like your morning workout sessions, Pontoon's got you sorted. The bayside venue is easing punters gently into summer with a series of waterfront yoga and brunch sessions. They're happening on Sunday, November 24, and Sunday, December 8, as part of Pontoon's current Veuve Clicquot Summer House pop-up. First, you'll find yourself getting bendy on the beach with a one-hour yoga flow class, guided by Yoke Yoga's Ashleigh Dickinson. Then, it's up to the deck for some hard-earned grub, in the form of a two-course brunch with bottomless booze. There's yoghurt, granola and seasonal fruit to kick things off, followed by either a smoked pork breakfast pizza or a vibrant veggie-topped green pizza. To match, there'll be free-flowing flutes of Veuve (naturally) served right through the hour-long brunch session. We reckon they'll taste even better than usual after that Sunday morning workout. It'll set you back $65 for both the yoga session and brunch.
A good glass of wine usually adds to a meal or time spent with friends. And while there are many reasons to talk up each bottle's tannins, terroir and microclimate, not every occasion calls for this kind of high-brow rumination. Instead, Natural Science Wine & Liquor's Everyday Wine Fair takes a more laidback approach, featuring a free, easygoing tasting that celebrates Australian wines made for everyday enjoyment. Held from 2–5pm on Saturday, August 2, the Blackburn-based wine merchant has assembled a stellar lineup of seven local producers, including Yarrawood Estate, Muto Wine, Gill Estate and Patrick of Coonawarra. Spanning 35 wines to sip, every bottle is priced between $15 and $27, ensuring each option up for grabs hits the sweet spot between quality, character and affordability. "This is literally an idea I had a couple of months ago," says Natural Science co-owner Tristan Jallais. "There are a lot of wine shows out there, but they're not really pitched to the everyday. This is something to enjoy, to drink — it's not elitist. It's about people filling their pantries." During the fair, expect forward-thinking sips that leave a big impression and approachable chats about Aussie wine styles making waves with independent producers. So, whether you love chatting about wine (without the snobby takes) or you're exploring small-batch vino for the first time, this relaxed afternoon event is the ideal way to taste and stock up. Images: Michael Pham.
On the outskirts of Paris, an epic electronic legend is working harder, better, faster and allegedly on a solo album. One half of Daft Punk, Guy-Manuel Homem-Christo, has been reported by French magazine Tsugi as working on his own solo release — and apparently Charlotte Gainsbourg's on board. Dates are in the dark at present, with the album actually yet to be announced. Tsugi have reported the presence of guests on the album, taking the liberty to confirm the appearance of fellow French legend Charlotte Gainsbourg. Yep. Formidable. The absence of Daft Punk co-captain Thomas Bangalter is a pretty Big Deal, but the pair have their own solo ventures from time to time — Guy-Man produced Kavinsky and Sébastien Tellier's albums and Waves compilations out on his own Crydamoure label. The first new material since last year's Grammy-blitzing album Random Access Memories, the album whisperings come with crossed fingers of an Australian return. We're all too aware this is absolute blue sky, but we'll keep shining up our helmets anywho. Via Tsugi and Your EDM.
Southsiders are about to score a visit from a very tasty guest, as Andrew McConnell's Supernormal kicks off a short but sweet pop-up at The Botanical Hotel. And this one's got your lockdown feasting sorted, serving up a roll-call of favourites from its Flinders Lane and St Kilda siblings. Running Thursdays to Sundays between Thursday, July 23 and Sunday, August 2, Supernormal Kiosk will be stocked with a range of both ready-to-eat dishes and finish-at-home meals, starring Supernormal classics and newcomers alike. You'll find serves of house-made kimchi, warming miso soup, szechuan pork dumplings teamed with a sweet soy and chilli sauce, and an appearance from those legendary New England lobster rolls. If you don't mind a few minutes of kitchen time, the kiosk's ready-to-heat options are also sure to impress. Get that house smelling amazing when you add the finishing touches to some twice-cooked duck leg bao, or the slow-cooked Xinjiang lamb with spring onion pancakes. And of course, fans will be quick to snap up a serve of McConnell's cult Valrhona chocolate and peanut butter mousse, as always decked out with salted caramel and peanut butter praline. Top image: Nikki To
Regional Victoria's northeast is turning it on again this May with another edition of Feast High Country Festival. The spectacular food and wine festival, which showcases the region's most admired producers, growers and makers, will be held between Friday, May 3 and Sunday, May 19. With over 40 events filling this year's program, there's an incredible selection to choose from. It's a challenging task to pick out just a few highlights — but we've done our best. On Friday, May 10, Bridge Road Brewers founders Ben and Maria Kraus will host Fermentation Degustation, a four-course dinner that explores everything preserved — from sourdough and sauerkraut to hoppy beer, wine and even gin. For those looking to get active, Pedal and Taste will feature a leisurely 35-kilometre bike ride that passes through some of the finest wine, olive and cheese makers in the region. The full-day tour, on Saturday, May 11, will take you from Beechworth to Milawa on the picturesque Murray to Mountains Rail Trail — concluding with a private tasting at Brown Brothers. Meanwhile, the cycle tour around Myrtleford and Ovens on Sunday, May 19, includes a hands-on gnocchi making masterclass. Alternatively, you can round up your most competitive mates for an 'Amazing Race' tournament, hosted by Mansfield Regional Produce Store on Saturday, May 11. Wind your way through country lanes and a traditional garden maze to the finish line-reward — a glass of wine and picnic hamper filled to the brim with local produce. Finally, we couldn't look past Black Barn Farm's Twilight Apple Pick and Pie on Wednesday, May 8 — grab all the apples you want from the orchard, then have Derailleur Cafe's Eric Bittner give you an unbeatable crash course in pie-making. For the full Feast High Country Festival 2019 program and to book tickets, visit the website. Images: Visit Victoria.
What's better than a venue full of very good boys and girls? A venue full of very good boys and girls, matched with bottomless pizza and a few cheeky cocktails, of course. If this sounds like your ultimate triple treat, you'll be happy to know that the folks at dog-friendly Port Melbourne restaurant Ciao Cucina, located next door to sibling restaurant Ciao Cielo, are dishing up the goods, teaming up with dog outfitters Sebastian Says for a special shindig on Sunday, April 14. To help launch the label's new collection, it's throwing a party for humans and puppers alike, taking place in its excellent courtyard. Four-legged guests will be able to get professional snaps by pet photographer DogFolk, while dressed to the nines in snazzy Sebastian Says threads. There'll also be stacks of great prizes, handed out for the likes of 'Best Dog Hair-Do' and 'Most Human-Like Dog'. Big appetites will be well catered for, too, with the kitchen serving up a two-hour all-you-can-eat pizza deal for just $50pp. Meanwhile, pups can enjoy their own range of dog-friendly, gluten-free slices, even teamed with a few doggy beers. The fun continues with live entertainment and a special lineup of spritzes — think, limoncello liqueur with prosecco and candied lemon, or the English Garden blend of gin, elderflower liqueur, apple and mint. To book your spot, email info@ciaocielo.com.au.
Go to the cinema in India and you're in for a real show — answering the blower at pivotal narrative moments and launching into loud, unbridled conversation, heavy jostling, impromptu singalongs minus the bouncing red ball and throwing betel nuts in particularly involving sequences are all common practice. Amidst all this lively commotion, it's easy to lose sight of the real action taking place onscreen, a crying shame considering the vividly crafted, infectiously emotive hyperrealities for which the Indian film industry has become world famous. This May, the second annual Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, which fortuitously falls on the 100-year anniversary of Indian films, brings a broad selection of more than 60 of India and the wider subcontinent's best cinema to local Hoyts and ACMI theatres. Highlights include ACMI's 100 Years of Indian Cinema program, pure sequin-encrusted escapism via Hurrah Bollywood and the counter-balancing Beyond Bollywood, a collection of experimental arthouse films that suggest a deeper side to the industry, beyond much-appreciated heaving bosoms and random explosions of song. Thanks to the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, we have two double passes, valid for any screening throughout the festival, to giveaway. To be in the running, subscribe to Concrete Playground (if you haven't already) then email us with your name and postal address at hello@concreteplayground.com.au. Image via Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2013.
It's no secret that the film industry isn't the most inclusive, accessible or safe space for women, one of the matters that the #MeToo and #TimesUp campaigns have been addressing over the past six months. It's also a subject that Frances McDormand highlighted in her rousing best actress acceptance speech at this year's Oscars, when she had the whole world scrambling to look up two words: inclusion rider. The industry's gender imbalance not only encompasses the treatment of women involved in filmmaking in front of and behind the lens, however, but also the field of film criticism. Take Rotten Tomatoes, for example. If it's your go-to review aggregator, then you've probably noticed that the bulk of critics listed are men. Indeed, according to a 2016 study by the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film, men outnumber women on the site by 73 percent to 27 percent. It's a topic that everyone from Jessica Chastain to Meryl Streep to Reese Witherspoon has drawn attention to in recent years, and now a new initiative is aiming to offer an alternative. That'd be CherryPicks, which will exclusively focus on female film critics. Expected to launch later this year, it'll provide "perspectives on film, tv, music, and more with reviews, ratings and high quality original content, all though a female lens," as its website explains. "This is where you can find out what women like, and what they don't," the site continues, in an aim to more accurately represent the full spectrum of critical voices. The project spearheaded by director, producer, actor and distributor Miranda Bailey and author, producer and entrepreneur Rebecca Odes. Speaking to IndieWire, Bailey noted the need for the film industry to not only change to "include more minorities and females on both sides of the camera", but to "change the perceived desires of consumers" as well. "How can we possibly change what consumers consider good and worthy content if the majority of critics who tell them what to want are predominately older white males?" she asked. CherryPicks will rate films on its own scale, ranging from a 'Bowl of Cherries' to 'The Pits', while also analysing each title's representation of women and considerations appropriate to women according to its own 'Cherry Check' system. In addition, it'll feature newsletters, podcasts, lists, articles and more, and spotlight women — critics, filmmakers, actors, writers and other creatives — working across the movie business. Via IndieWire.
Who needs international travel, anyway? This month, right here in Melbourne, food truck park The Ascot Lot is hosting a special food festival dedicated to two of your favourite Asian creations: noodles and boba. From 12pm on Saturday, April 24, the aptly named Send Noods festival will see some of the city's top noodle-slinging food trucks rolling up to showcase their finest slurpable dishes, including Pearl of the Quarter, Take Mie Out and Satay Truck. Even Funky Corner will be there, dishing up a few of its signature Italian variations on the theme. Meanwhile, the bar will be busy whipping up a special menu of boozy boba cocktails, taking the classic Taiwanese drink to a whole new level (balls and all). Slurp down those noods with the likes of The Cherry Blossom, a summery Boba-Colada or a boba-filled take on the long island iced tea. As always, doggos are welcome and there'll be DJs soundtracking the festivities. And if you upload a snap of one of the noodle dishes or boba drinks you enjoy on the day, you'll be in with a shot at winning a $50 Ascot Lot bar tab.
Australian's are, by and large, a beach-loving people — and as such, we feel a close affinity with the ocean. But while the water means relaxation and leisure for many, for others it symbolises something very different. And for asylum seekers fleeing persecution, the journey across the sea represents a chance at a better life. With that in mind, Enough Space in Prahran is turning its eyes to the water. Curated by writer and photographer Victoria Hannan, this charity exhibition will showcase 118 photographs of the ocean, donated by 21 different photographers from seven countries around the world. Each print will offer a different perspective on the salt and sand, and all will be available to purchase. All proceeds from sales will go to the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, who work to protect and empower asylum seekers living in the community.
For nearly a century, the Capitol Theatre has stood on Melbourne's Swanston Street — initially playing host to silent films that were preceded by live theatre productions before each screening, and also accompanied by Australia's first large Wurlitzer organ. First opening in 1924, it's a crucial part of the city's entertainment history; however since 2014, the space has remained closed. Owner RMIT is eager to change that, launching a crowdfunding campaign to restore the theatre and put it back into use. With $20 million in restoration and improvement works mooted, the university is seeking to supplement the Victorian Government's pledged $2.5 million with $2 million in public funding — with every dollar donated to be matched by RMIT. And, for folks who give $250 or more, their name will be featured on the building's wall. Running since late 2017, the campaign aims to "give Melbourne a spectacular and world famous space to house festivals, film premieres and screenings, concerts and conferences" — according to the appeal's website — plus learning spaces for RMIT students. It's the latest chapter in the theatre's eventful lifespan, which has seen it closed in the 60s, renovated to turn its stalls-level seating into the Capitol Arcade, and then remodelled again when RMIT took over in 1999. If you've ever stepped inside the space — which was used as a venue for the Melbourne International Film Festival as recently as 2014 — you will have noticed the decor. Designed by architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin, who also designed the city of Canberra, its striking, geometric-shaped, light-filled ceiling attracts as much attention as anything on the venue's stage or screen. The entire structure, aka Capitol House, has been on the Victorian Heritage Register since 1989 — with the Capitol Theatre pre-dating both the nearby Forum and Regent Theatre. For more information, visit the Capitol Theatre campaign website. For images of the site, visit the campaign blog. Images: Michelleyesf / Stephen Bain / Adam Carr.
Going to an art gallery is always a somewhat therapeutic experience. The walls are painted a serene and unobtrusive white, everything is quiet and still, and each work offers a small refuge from the grind of the everyday. Art offers your the opportunity to float in Monet's garden or become transfixed in a unique moment. Alain de Botton has made a career out of everyday advice such as this. Founder of The School of Life, de Botton specialises in secular sermons and the exploration of everyday problems. And, to coincide with the launch of the school's Melbourne branch, de Botton and philosopher John Armstrong are taking their wisdom to the NGV. The two creatives have specially written labels for over 60 works in the gallery's collection and created a smartphone app that re-contextualises each work to challenge your assumptions and unearth hidden wisdom. This is a duo who quite literally wrote the book on the subject, so it would be in your best interest to take part. It's for your own emotional wellbeing. The Art as Therapy program will be launched with a secular sermon by de Botton on Wednesday, March 26, and the tour will remain available at the NGV until late September.
In the low-budget prison drama Rise, an innocent young man is sentenced to six years in jail after being falsely accused of rape. It's a troubling tale inspired by the real life experiences of first time writer/director Mack Lindon, who himself was incarcerated for more than 18 months before being completely exonerated on appeal. Lindon's lingering sense of outrage is palpable throughout the film, and justifiably so. At the same time, it's difficult not to feel uncomfortable with the way that his screenplay, intentionally or not, plays into false myths about sexual assault. For the record, I have nothing but sympathy for Mack Lindon. Ultimately though, a film has to exist separately from the events on which it is based. To that end, Rise totally fails to acknowledge the fact that, in a vast majority of rape cases, the accused party actually did it. It's perfectly reasonable for Lindon to want to publicly reaffirm his innocence. Yet by dramatising his story for the screen, he has ended up perpetuating the commonly held belief that phony rape complaints occur more frequently than they do. Gone Girl copped flack for a similar issue, admittedly, but there you could argue it was part of a broader social critique. No such defence can be mounted here. Even without the dodgy gender politics, however, Rise is fairly atrocious. Once in lock-up, Lindon's onscreen surrogate Will (Nathan Wilson) learns to navigate prison life, doing his best to stay out of trouble, and eventually bonding with a number of inmates. These secondary characters hold some dramatic promise, particularly hardened criminal Jimmy Cove (Martin Sacks). But the dialogue, though earnest, sounds painfully forced, and frequently lapses into melodrama. When one inmate tells Will he's been in prison "in here" while placing his hand on his head, there's little you can do to suppress a snigger. The self-righteous Christian overtones don't exactly help matters, either. Lindon attempts to inject some additional gravitas via his directorial choices, including an angst-ridden soundtrack and a handful of instances of "arty" slow-motion. Sadly, it's all pretty cringeworthy, particularly when you take into account the movie's strange tonal imbalance that neuters any stabs at dramatic weight. While Will languishes in prison, his bumbling lawyer attempts to recruit the services of Queen's Council Julie Nile (Erin Connor), in a strange comic subplot has no place in such a (supposedly) serious film. That said, it's not nearly as bad as the unintentional comedy of the climax, a contrived courtroom scene with the most ludicrous 'eureka!' moment since the finale of Legally Blonde. At the end of the day, Lindon obviously had some things that he needed to get off his chest. If nothing else, Rise is clearly an intensely personal story, and under the circumstances, perhaps its questionable content can be partially forgiven. But it's a lot harder to overlook the film's basic technical ineptitude. If Lindon has any desire to keep making movies, there's a lot he needs to learn. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Jiq2NTjut8c
Brunswick Street Cider House is where it's at for the cider lovers of Melbourne — and in particular, their garden bar out the back is perfect for some summer sipping. This Australia Day, the garden will host AusFest 2016 Craft Cider Festival, where $28 will get you your own personal stein for the day, which you can fill up with one of the 15 beverages on tap on arrival. You can refill your stein for $8.80 during the day, and will also receive a slow-cooked pork roll for lunch and apple crumble for dessert. There's also apple bobbing, a William Tell competition (with fake arrows), and the option of turning your cider into a slushy. Cheers!
If we had to come up with a shortlist of sentences that we don't think we'll ever get tired of writing, "Melbourne is getting a brand new burger joint" would definitely be close to the top. Which is lucky, because frankly, it's something we have to write a lot. Case in point: restaurateur Dani Zeini is firing up the grill at Royal Stacks #2, his second American-style fast food eatery to open this year. It's now open at 800 Sydney Road, Brunswick. With a resume that includes Dandenong Pavilion, Grand Trailer Park Taverna, Easey's and Truck Stop Deluxe, it's safe to say that when it comes to hamburgers, Zeini is no slouch. The first Royal Stacks opened in the CBD in January, and this offshoot will use high quality Australian ingredients, including beef free from GMO, hormones and antibiotics. And, in a point of difference to the CBD restaurant, Brunswick will have halal options on the menu. "We're very excited to launch a Royal Stacks in Brunswick that offers a options for those who want to eat halal," says Zeini. "Catering for the local community has always been a big part of all the venues I've been involved in." The wildly popular burgers that have been going gangbusters at the CBD venue will naturally be at Brunswick too, including the Double Stack, the Prince Harry and The King (that's the one with the mac 'n' cheese croquettes). Burgers and fries aside, there's also the insane honest-to-God frozen custard machine. New flavours like rosewater and pistachio, baklava and kunafeh (a sugar-soaked cheese pastry) will also make an appearance at the new store. Royal Stack Brunswick is now open at 800 Sydney Road, Brunswick from 11.30am till 10pm Wednesday to Sunday. For more information, visit royalstacks.com.au.
With the return of Finders Keepers market in July, so too comes the return of our inner art and design guru. It pulls us towards eye-catching prints, impeccably designed ceramics and irresistibly quirky earrings — all of which are locally made. In its eleventh year, Finders Keepers is bringing back its high-quality collection of stalls with a few exciting additions and a continued focus around independent and up-and-coming artisans. And bonus — it's returning just in time to pick up some last-minute Christmas in July gifts. New stalls worth stopping by include artist and Finders Keepers Melbourne Indigenous Program recipient Amber Days, playful jeweller Jamie Mumford, textile label Free to Fall and ceramicist Hanging Rock Studio. Art and design run the show at Finders Keepers, and over the years the market has bolstered other mediums of expression — food and music. The 2019 festival will see food stalls from just around the corner, like Ghost Kitchen, Cookie Doh Co. and Bao x Waffle, plus out-of-towners bringing their craft to the city. One of many to look forward to is the Byron-based The Chippery, which does great things with the humble potato. If you're looking for something a bit more hefty, grab a burger from Ron's Handburger. Needless to say, seek and you will find. If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by choices, you can take a look at the Finders Keepers online directory for a comprehensive look at the stalls and the sitemap to find where they'll be on the day. Finders Keepers Autumn/Winter Melbourne will run from Friday, July 12–Sunday, July 14. The market will be open from 12pm–9pm on Friday, 10am–5pm on Saturday and 10am–5pm on Sunday. Entry is $5 and tickets are valid for all three days. Images: Samee Lapham.
Vegans of the north, rejoice. The age of meat is waning and it's nearly your time to inherit the earth. To build your strength, head down to Welcome to Thornbury for the Vegan Vegout. The all-vegan food truck event usually rolls into High Street on the first Wednesday of every month. For the June event, you can expect a lineup of vegetarian and vegan snacks from Woking Amazing, Mr Burger, Ballissimo and Quintessence Patisserie, which means everything from vegan meatballs to vegan peking duck will be covered. It all kicks off from 5pm and dogs are welcome.
Have you ever gazed up at the stars at night and marvelled at the vastness of the cosmos? If your answer to that question is 'yes', then this event at Hawthorn's Town Hall Gallery might be right up your alley. Inspired by their ongoing exhibition Imagined Worlds, which features art that challenges traditional representations of landscapes, the gallery has teamed up with Swinburne University for a night of amateur astronomy. At 6pm on Wednesday, July 20, PhD candidates from Swinburne will set up their telescope on top of the historic Hawthorn Arts Centre. From this unique vantage point, ticketholders will be able to observe the planets and constellations, and watch the full moon make its way across the sky. There'll also be wine and canapes, to help you stave off the cold. Image: Federico Beccari.
Time to update your MySpace status and rock out to that mix CD your friend made, The Kooks and Julian Casablancas have just announced they're both coming to Australia. While we're currently quietly chuffed by the news — they're both still indie greats — our 2006 self is absolutely losing their shit. We're going to elbow our way to the front row and finally make that eye contact we've been pining for since first hearing 'Someday' on our Discman. Though there are no current plans for solo shows, Casablancas has been added to the lineup for Falls Festival and Southbound with his side project The Voidz. Trading in the polished guitar riffs of The Strokes for a more raw punk sound, Casablancas and The Voidz have released their new album Tyranny just this week which will no doubt make up the majority of his festival sets. It's not all that often that Casablancas makes the trip down under, so we've secretly got our fingers crossed for some of his older work to hit the stage. In an ideal world we'd get treated to the stripped back demo version of 'I'll Try Anything Once', but we'd also settle for some solo stuff from Phrazes For the Young. The new collaboration is fine and all, but post-punk is admittedly hard to swoon over. Alternatively, The Kooks are just as boppy and Brit-poppy as you remember them on your car radio on the way to high school roll call. Their most recent album Listen has seen a little electro added to the mix, but the tunes are as upbeat as ever. Plus it's still super fun to sing along while emulating Luke Pritchard's accent. Though they visited just last year for Groovin' The Moo, The Kooks will be embarking on a full national tour in January 2015. Supported by The Griswolds and Catfish & the Bottlemen, they'll be hitting up Perth, Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne with enormous (mostly) all ages shows. Sure, it's been close to a decade since you added 'Naive' or 'Seaside' to your MySpace playlist. Yes, Julian Casablancas has lost a little of that babyface rockstar charm. That shouldn't stop you doing a favour for your 2006 self and buying a ticket. You won't even need to pull a double shift at Maccas to raise the cash this time! Julian Casablancas December 28 - January 1 — Falls Festival Lorne (SOLD OUT) December 29 - January 1 — Falls Festival Marion Bay December 30 - January 3 — Falls Festival Byron Bay (SOLD OUT) January 3 - 4, 2015 — Southbound Festival The Kooks January 17, 2015 — Belvoir Amphitheatre, Perth. January 20, 2015 — Hordern Pavilion, Sydney. January 23, 2015 — Riverstage, Brisbane. January 24, Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne. All tickets on sale 9am Friday, October 3 via Ticketmaster.
Splendour might be done and dusted, but that doesn't mean you have to pack away your rainbow wellies until summer shows its face. Rekorderlig, ever keen to demonstrate that we Aussies should be tackling winter with a tad more brio than a pack of grizzlies, has just announced the headliner for free upcoming music event Sounds in the Snow. On September 13, just as the flakes start to melt and smack bang in the middle of the Toyota One Hit Wonder Mountain Festival, Sydney synth pop boys Panama will appear in Thredbo to deliver their so-called hopeful house music live. Fronted by Perth-born songwriter and classically-trained pianist Jarrah McCleary, the trio are currently touring Europe and the United States on the back of sophomore EP Always. The only thing we can't tell you is where in the Alps you'll find them, as Rekorderlig is keeping the venue top secret — for now at least. To be among the first to find out, join the Rekorderlig Facebook page. Sounds in the Snow is just one of the many excuses that Rekorderlig's giving you to head to the snow this season. Afternoon sessions are happening at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel every Thursday, Friday and Saturday between 3pm and 6pm; fire pits are burning; the Rekorderlig Hot Pool is providing serious apres-ski relaxation; and their tasty cinnamon and vanilla-fused Winter Cider is at the top of the drinks menu. https://youtube.com/watch?v=UylPrMcurB8
Gigs and shows are well and truly back, and a series of affordable gigs is bringing a collection of beloved local acts to concert venues for just $10. The Live At Last Tour was unveiled by Jack Daniel's and Secret Sounds last year as a way of placing fan-favourite bands back on stages during the pandemic, offering free gigs in intimate venues around the country like Frankie's Pizza and The Triffid. Now, it's back, taking to larger venues this time in order to raise money for Support Act. This year's iteration of the tour will see Triple J and festival circuit favourites play on stage for the very affordable price of $10. The bands in question are Pond, San Cisco, Ruby Fields and Psychedelic Porn Crumpets — each of which will take to one city on the tour. You can catch Pond in the Sunshine Coast on Tuesday, April 12; Psychedelic Porn Crumpets in Sydney on Thursday, April 21; San Cisco in Brisbane on Sunday, April 24; and Ruby Fields in Melbourne on Thursday, April 28. All the acts on the lineup will be joined by yet-to-be announced special guests. Tickets to the gigs are on sale now, and with the $10 price tag, they're sure to be snatched up quickly. If you want to head along you can find all the venues and ticketing information on Secret Sounds' website. Best of all, the whole thing is supporting a good cause. Support Act has been a massive driving force of positivity in the music industry over the last two years. The not-for-profit assists musicians through tough times, whether that be financially or personally, by providing crisis relief grants, mental health workshops, online resources and funeral assistance among a host of other things to people in the music industry. [caption id="attachment_814499" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pond, Matsu[/caption] LIVE AT LAST TOUR DATES Pond — Tuesday, April 22 at SolBar, Sunshine Coast Psychedelic Porn Crumpets — Thursday, April 21 at Factory Theatre, Sydney San Cisco — Sunday, April 24 at Fortitude Music Hall Ruby Fields — Sunday, April 24 at The Espy, Melbourne Live At Last is set to kick off on Tuesday, April 12. Tickets are on sale now via the Secret Sounds website. Top image: Vincent Shaw
Deep-voiced Sydneysider Kirin J Callinan preludes a massive Europe tour with a few stops on local turf, i.e. a national tour. As part of his trip around the country, he and his '80s cricketer hairdo will be rocking the Melbourne Festival. Callinan kicked of his music career as guitarist for Mercy Arms, before going solo with his own unique genre of chaos. His live shows have become infamous, with constant streams of stories from his gigs appearing online. In the words of Clash's Joe Zadah, "these unhinged and confessional sermons are made of savage riffs, self-deprecation and loop pedals." Between his hectic string of live gigs, he's made time to release his album Embracism (out now on XL/Terrible Records), perfect a flamboyant fashionably/unfashionable style and team up with Mark Ronson and Tame Impala as they covered 'I Sat by the Ocean' for Like a Version. Now, Callinan heads down south to share his talents. His Sunday night show will be supported by Molly Lewis, 2015's female world champion musical whistler.
Artists, scientists and professional foodies unite for a six-month program of events and exhibitions all about the future of food. Curated by the University of Melbourne's Carlton Connect Initiative LAB-14, Absolutely Famished explores the various challenges facing sustainable food production — from climate change to population growth — while also examining how emerging technologies might come to our aid. Turns out robot farmers are a lot closer than you might think. The program begins on Wednesday, July 20 with Gastronomica Apocalyptia, a post-apocalyptic dinner featuring foods from the brave new world. Blue-green bacteria canapés, anyone? It'll also serve to launch the program's first exhibition, Inheritance, which incorporates found material, paper objects and stop motion animation. Absolutely Famished will also feature an "immersive food performance", created by artist David Sequeira, neuropsychologist Dr Simon Cropper and musician Luke Howard. Sounds a bit like the set-up to a bad joke, but we're curious all the same. More events will be announced throughout the next few months, so keep an eye on The Carlton Connect Initiative Facebook page for more details on upcoming events.
Melburnians, it's time to make plans. Sunset Cinema is back for four weeks, and you've got plenty of movies to see. Fancy a romantic evening under the stars with your special someone? A relaxed hangout with the gang? A night of family fun with the littlies? That's the joy of heading to an outdoor cinema — there's truly something for all. Screening at Commonwealth Reserve at Williamstown from Thursday, January 24 to Sunday, February 17, this year's Sunset Cinema delivers all of the essentials. Those beanbags aren't going to get cosy by themselves — and those bubbles and brews aren't going to drink themselves either. All that's left is for you to pick the right flick and make a stress-free night of it. From all-ages delights to date night picks to films made for watching with friends, here are your next four nights at the movies sorted. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ywkF1lj5wyI MATES NIGHT: A STAR IS BORN Just when you thought that Lady Gaga had done everything that she possibly could, she sheds her over-the-top persona and becomes a star — again. Playing a waitress who's thrust into stardom after a chance encounter with Bradley Cooper's booze-soaked rocker, her performance in A Star Is Born remains a revelation. It's not her first stint in front of the camera by any means, but it is her most powerful and affecting. Those two words also describe this tale of love, fame and the cost of both, which marks the fourth time a flick of this name has told this story. As for Cooper, he turns in his best work in years in front of the camera, while also stepping behind it to make his directorial debut. Be prepared to belt out Shallow with your mates for the rest of summer. Showing: Sunday, January 27 and Thursday, February 14 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14ZHRBfpeNg FRIEND DATE: CRAZY RICH ASIANS A word of warning, movie-goers: watching Crazy Rich Asians will make you want to do two things. Firstly, you'll start craving plates upon plates of delicious Asian food. Secondly, you'll have a hankering for a Singapore getaway — so maybe invite your favourite travel buddy to come along for the show. Bringing Kevin Kwan's book of the same name to the screen, this feel-good charmer follows Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) and her boyfriend Nick Young (Henry Golding) when they jet to the bustling island country for a wedding that doubles as a meet-the-parents visit. It's a rom-com, a drama about being yourself, a Singaporean travelogue and a hangout flick — the latter coming courtesy of the movie's hilarious scenes between Rachel and her college bestie (a film-stealing Awkwafina). Showing: Thursday, January 31 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMe7hUb3TpI FAMILY NIGHT: MARY POPPINS RETURNS More than five decades ago, a spoonful of sugar helped the medicine go down — and supercalifragilisticexpialidocious was a word to sing about. Now, it's time to trip a little light fantastic and remember that a cover is not the book. Yes, Mary Poppins is back, as played by a pitch-perfect Emily Blunt, and cinema is all the better for it. If you grew up watching the 1964 classic, this is a nostalgic blast from the past that still manages to enchant on its own merits. If you're introducing a whole new generation to the magical nanny who floats in on an umbrella, croons about stuff and nonsense, and teaches engaging life lessons, prepare to watch their faces light up with joy. Showing: Friday, February 8 and Saturday, February 16 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCWHr6AUxwI DATE NIGHT: INSTANT FAMILY Rose Byrne, Mark Wahlberg and a trio of kids. That's Instant Family. When thirty-something couple Ellie and Pete Wagner start taking comments about their childless lives to heart, they also start thinking about helping kids in need; however becoming a foster parent isn't as easy as it sounds. Drawn from the real life of Daddy's Home director Sean Anders, a foster parent himself, this broad comedy charts the ups and downs of suddenly caring for three tykes — and benefits from being made by someone who's been there and done that. It also lets Aussie star Byrne show off her comedic talents once again, so if you loved her work in Bad Neighbours and its sequel, you'll love her here as well. Showing: Sunday, February 17 Sunset Cinema will take over Commonwealth Reserve at Williamstown from Thursday, January 24 to Sunday, February 17. Check out the full film program here.
Burger fiends of Melbourne, the wait is finally over. Legendary Sydney crew Mary's is just days away from opening the doors to its first permanent local venture, and will unveil its new Franklin Street restaurant on Monday, January 20. Now with four Sydney outposts under their belts, co-owners Jake Smyth and Kenny Graham are bringing their American-style burgers, decadent fried chicken and general loose vibes down south. And, unlike their one-day kitchen takeover at Leonard's House of Love and two-month kitchen residency at cocktail bar Fancy Free, this time, it'll be a permanent fixture. The CBD venue is set to be Mary's biggest yet, boasting space for 140 punters, a cosy mezzanine level and — perched dramatically from the roof — a supersized, custom wrought-iron chandelier, hung with over 24,000 dead rose stems. You'll find the cavernous space tucked down a laneway, marked simply by a glowing red light. [caption id="attachment_747993" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The vegan burger[/caption] The venue's grungy, rock 'n' roll attitude is alive and well here, as is that penchant for unapologetically big-flavoured fare and top-notch vino. The menu showcases familiar favourites like the signature Mary's burger, the fried chook and the much-loved mash and gravy, alongside a handful of site-specific creations solely for the Melbourne crowd. In especially happy news for herbivores, a full vegan offering is also being dished up, mirroring the smash-hit plant-based lineup that debuted at Mary's Circular Quay outpost last May — including the above burger. True to form, there's plenty of love here for excellent wine, with a 100-strong list curated by much-lauded Mary's wine director Caitlyn Rees. Expect a lineup that's a little bit left-of-centre and very fun, shining a spotlight on the industry's young guns and emerging winemakers. And, as is custom with a Mary's venue, there's a high-octane soundtrack to help bring it all to life. Find Mary's Melbourne at 167 Franklin Street, Melbourne from Monday, January 20. You'll be able to book a table only if you have eight or more guests. Images: Mary's Pitt Street by Kitti Gould.
Women of Melbourne (and those that identify as such), rejoice. Inclusive local girl gang and creative collective Ladies of Leisure has officially opened its own peach-coloured studio space in Fitzroy for ongoing workshops, talks and empowering get-togethers. LOL Space will be a permanent home for the collective's beloved workshops. Upcoming events from the monthly This Is How We Do It series include a deep-dive into how Emma Cutri and Alice McIntosh of cult-status fashion brand Sister Studios took their label from the kitchen floor to a global business, as well as a Friendship Speed Dating networking event, which involves attendees participating in a "rapid-fire new friend making session". The zine creators, merch makers and all-round creative powerhouses are no strangers to celebrating incredible women and female-identifying people in the creative industry. In fact, it's what they're all about. When LOL Founder and Creative Director Savannah Anand-Sobti first met Editor-in-Chief Sally Tabart in 2013, all she wanted to do was find a way to showcase the inspiring people that she found herself surrounded by daily – so together they created LOL. [caption id="attachment_712917" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Savannah Anand-Sobti and Sally Tabart[/caption] The pair started out with a small zine — LOL's first incarnation. Since then, they've published three issues of the publication, produced four sold-out workshop series with various industry leaders, made a film, created a collection of merchandise, and produced panels and events for the Emerging Writers Festival, the NGV and the ACCA. Over the last six years, LOL has successfully fostered a community of up-and-coming creatives, so it seems only natural that it would create a home them, too. Teaming up with friend and stylist Pip Newell of Curated Spaces, Anand-Sobti and Tabart have created a space that embodies the LOL philosophies of warmth and inclusivity. Furnished with secondhand items sourced from Gumtree and eBay, as well as pieces from Reioni Douglas of Upholsrei and florist Hattie Molloy, the vibrant teal, pink and peach tones of the LOL space have been carefully put together to feel immediately welcoming. "LOL Space perfectly encapsulates everything that Ladies of Leisure is about," say Savannah Anand-Sobti and Sally Tabart. "Through our publications and previous workshop series we've strived to create a safe space where people feel comfortable making friends, asking questions, learning from others and being vulnerable. The LOL Space physically embodies that philosophy." If you want to check it out for yourself, head to the LOL website for a full list of upcoming workshops covering art, network, business, fashion, mental health and more. LOL Space is located at 451 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy. It's open for workshops and events, which you can find here. Images: Amelia Stanwix.
If seasonal change has left you in a dizzy headspin of new colours and fabrics and prints and jackets — or if, y'know, you just like some fancy new clothes now and then — you'll be pretty pleased to know that the Big Fashion Sale is back. Usually, it's a physical affair that takes place in Sydney and Melbourne; however like plenty of other events at the moment, the shopping extravaganza is going online — and national — for its next outing. The name pretty much says it all. This thing is big. You'll find a hefty array of lush items from past collections, samples and one-offs from a huge lineup of cult Australian and international designers, both well-known and emerging — including Romance Was Born, Alexander McQueen, Isabel Marant, The Row, Dries Van Noten and more. With discounts of up to 80-percent off, this is one way to up your count of designer threads while leaving your bank balance sitting pretty, too — whether you're keen on clothes, shoes, swimwear or accessories. The Big Fashion Sale's online edition kicks off at 9am on Monday, May 18 on the event's website — and you can register in advance to be notified when it kicks off.
Like the sound of a music festival that feels less like a major sporting match and more like hanging out with mates at your place? Well, so does the crew at boutique music agency Novel, which is why it went and created the magic that is Living Room Festival. Following its debut at Federation Square last year, this laidback tune fest is back for another round, this time hitting the spacious surrounds of Port Melbourne's Timber Yard on Saturday, November 9. And it's bringing with it a stellar lineup of local and international acts, including some that were scheduled for Novel's now-cancelled Supermild Weekender. Germany's Motor City Drum Ensemble is coming to party, dishing up a huge three-hour set in his only Victorian show. He's joined on the bill by French DJ Jeremy Underground, Nightmares on Wax out of the UK, genre-bending German act Acid Pauli, and homegrown heroes including Otologic, DJ Jnett and Late Nite Tuff Guy. It kicks off from midday and, alongside the tunes, expect a solid assortment of couches for maximum comfort, a Funktion-One sound system for maximum aural enjoyment, and a hand-picked lineup of both food and market stalls to keep you going through the day.
The brain behind Dr Morse's famous panko crumbed eggs is executive chef and partner Tyler Lee Preston, whose pan-Asian inspired menu has proved popular with northsiders for some time now. It's hard to think of a better way to kick-off your Sunday than with Tyler's panko-crumbed eggs Benedict, served with crispy roti, spicy hollandaise, greens and a choice of bacon or smoked salmon rillettes. Located underneath Victoria Park train bridge, right in the hubbub of Abbotsford's Johnston Street, Dr Morse features a great bar and a bright outside area that's perfect for weekend hangs and sipping a few too many coffees. Bask in the late-morning sunlight — and try your best to avoid remembering it's Monday tomorrow.
In Disney's non-stop quest to not only remake its animated hits, but to make them look as lifelike as possible, the Mouse House has already brought Dumbo, Aladdin and The Lion King back to our screens so far this year alone. But it's not done yet, with the company's new streaming platform set to welcome another high-profile do-over before the end 2019: a live-action version of Lady and the Tramp. To answer the question you've all been wondering, yes, it'll feature real spaghetti and meatballs. In all seriousness, the film does actually star real dogs — not photo-realistic canines cooked up by a special-effects team. The adorable pooches will still be given human voices, of course, with Tessa Thompson lending her tones to everyone's favourite pampered pupper and Justin Theroux doing the honours for her street-smart love interest. Playing an American cocker spaniel and a schnauzer, Thompson and Theroux aren't the only big-name talents going to the dogs. A Star Is Born's Sam Elliott will get gravelly as a bloodhound, Catastrophe's Ashley Jensen is a Scottish terrier, Avengers: Endgame's Benedict Wong voices a bulldog and Janelle Monae pops up as a pekingese. They'll be joined by a few cast members who'll stick with their two-legged forms, including Hearts Beat Loud's Kiersey Clemons, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl's Thomas Mann, and Community co-stars Yvette Nicole Brown and Ken Jeong. Story-wise, the film will wag the same tale, as the upper middle-class Lady crosses paths with — and then eats pasta with — a downtown stray called Tramp. Directed by The Lego Ninjago Movie's Charlie Bean and co-written by US indie filmmaker Andrew Bujalski (Computer Chess, Results, Support the Girls), Lady and the Tramp will sport a few changes when it drops on Disney+ upon the service's November launch, however. Monae is reworking 'The Siamese Cat Song' to remove the original's offensive connotations, and will also perform two new tunes for the soundtrack. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2ZDDU34gYw The live-action Lady and the Tramp remake will be available on Disney+ when it launches Down Under on November 19.
An old man, haunted by history, leans forward and whispers almost imperceptibly to a young, wide-eyed boy: "…let me tell you a story". As a narrative device it's far from new, though few films have used it as effectively as 1987's The Princess Bride. For lazy writers it's an easy way of skipping from one big scene to the next without having to weave in difficult or dreary exposition. For clever ones, it's a chance to play with form and occasionally even wink at the audience. In The Lone Ranger, it's just plain unnecessary and entirely unwise, instantly robbing the movie of much of its tension by revealing in the opening scene that at least one of its two protagonists lives to be an old shirtless man. The Lone Ranger reunites actor Johnny Depp with producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Gore Verbinski, whose last collaboration was the hugely successful Pirates of The Caribbean. Creatively, it seems none of them have quite been able to let go of the past, with The Lone Ranger adopting (to its peril) much of the Pirates franchise's aesthetic and form. Even Depp's character, Tonto, just looks like Jack Sparrow without his hat and for whatever reason, the style doesn't hold water when it's not set on it. The Lone Ranger is, quite simply, an overly long (149 minutes) series of exaggerated action sequences without much of a plot to bind them together. Now you may have noticed that, despite him being both the star and title of the film, this review has so far overlooked the actual Lone Ranger. Why? Because that's exactly what the movie does. From the first teaser it was clear this film was being built around its biggest star, Depp, and not Armie Hammer, who last had to share billing with himself as the Winklevoss twins in The Social Network. Hammer makes a fine Ranger: tall, charming and good looking — he's every bit the polite and polished hero that our mothers loved. But this is the age of the gritty reboot, and pitting a deliberately unarmed lawyer against a villain who literally eats parts of his victims was like slamming two entirely different movies together and hoping nobody would mind. The brutality of the film's opening stages is impressively unsettling and William Fichtner makes a fine bad guy; however, the darkness quickly gives way to quirkiness, robbing the Ranger of any chance to be a proper hero. The Lone Ranger has some great moments, and no matter how incongruous it feels compared to modern soundtracks, the eruption of the iconic William Tell Overture during the film's climax will bring a smile to most faces. But it's just too long, and without any truly defining back story or characteristics, the Ranger will struggle to find an audience calling for this one-off to become a franchise.
The first rule of making a movie about a high-school lesbian fight club is that there are no rules, other than embracing the concept and giving it your all. So punches Bottoms, a film where the gleefully cartoonish energy is always as important as the plot, and a feature that knows it's entering a big-screen ring that wouldn't even exist if Heathers, Clueless, Bring It On, Mean Girls, But I'm a Cheerleader, Easy A and Booksmart hadn't hopped over the ropes first. Three years after Shiva Baby, writer/director Emma Seligman and actor Rachel Sennott (Bodies Bodies Bodies) reunite, with the pair collaborating on the script this time around. Also crucial: bringing in The Bear's Ayo Edebiri, a friend from the duo's student days, to co-star. In a picture that values being stronger together, Seligman, Sennott and Edebiri make a knockout team. Bottoms' vibe could only spring from IRL pals, too, playing it loose and ridiculous like this crew is simply hanging out. The setup: Sennott and Edebiri are PJ and Josie, who return to Rockbridge Falls High School after summer break keen to finally turn their love for popular cheerleaders Isabel (Havana Rose Liu, No Exit) and Brittany (Kaia Gerber, Babylon) into sex and romance. The best friends know that their social standing is anything but high — "gay, untalented and ugly" is how they describe themselves — but two queer girls can dream that this is their moment, then do their utmost to make their fantasies a reality. So, when the semester starts with PJ and Josie still stuck as outcasts, they conjure up a plan. Their gymnasium-based group is officially known as a women's self-defense class and is sold to their teachers as an act of female solidarity; however, no matter what they tell the principal (Wayne Pére, Your Honor), as well as the history teacher (Marshawn Lynch, Westworld) that they convince to be their advisor, there's really only one aim: not feminism and support, but getting laid. The initial mission of PJ and Josie's new extra-curricular obsession is scoring Isabel and Brittany's attention, then. The second: keeping up its founders' new tough rep. In that desperate-to-impress way that every awkward, anxious teen has, Bottoms' protagonists aren't above saying whatever they think will make them look cooler to the objects of their affection. So, PJ and Josie have a rumour that they went to juvie to uphold as long as they think that Isabel and Brittany care. Thanks to an accidental carpark altercation with star quarterback Jeff (Nicholas Galitzine, Red, White & Royal Blue), they also have form throwing around their might — or so they're happy to let their classmates think. Two things neither counts on, though: their gambit proving a hit with other campus outsiders such as Hazel (Ruby Cruz, Mare of Easttown) and, blow by blow, the group actually bringing its members together. Bottoms' premise is pure inspiration, switching out the usual Can't Hardly Wait-, American Pie- and Superbad-esque pining boys lovesick over long-term crushes or just yearning losing their virginity in general, taking Fight Club to high school, and getting sillier and more surreal than teen comedies normally dare. Bottoms as a movie also demonstrates Seligman's knack for her chosen genre at opposite ends of the spectrum — because the filmmaker's sharp and layered cringe-inducing debut feature is in a whole other comic clique to her sophomore effort. Cue subversion with plenty to say and off-kilter absurdity combined, especially in interrogating allyship. Cue a willingness to go for broke with weird, warped and wild swings as well. And, cue a film that's always doing what PJ and Josie themselves are to score their dream dates: relentlessly trying. The characters go with throwdowns in an endeavour to aid their horny hopes, while the flick itself opts for an everything-it-can-throw-in audacity. Tonal ducks, bobs and weaves are part of the Bottoms experience, unsurprisingly — and not every gag, line, goof, throwaway, swerve and drop of Wet Hot American Summer-style energy works. Accordingly, rivalries within Rockbridge Falls High and with another school, plus attempts to get serious, aren't always a bullseye. But Seligman and Sennott's devotion to their first rule means that a flat joke, piece of dialogue, idea or moment doesn't last long, then something else enters the comedic fray with gusto. The ping-ponging from Avril Lavigne's 'Complicated' to Bonnie Tyler's 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' amid a score co-composed by Charli XCX illustrates much about that bouncing-around relish. So does the script's contentedness to keep most of its on-screen figures as stock types not out of laziness, but to heighten the idiosyncrasies splashed around, insecurities examined and impact of the chaos around them. There's nothing standard about Sennott and Edebiri, not that Bottoms tells viewers anything that they don't already know from each actor's past work. The respective The Idol and Theater Camp talents previously collaborated on 2020's three-episode Comedy Central miniseries Ayo and Rachel Are Single, also pondering affairs of the heart — modern dating, to be specific, and also hilariously. The lived-in air that they bring to PJ and Josie's friendship isn't just an act, then. In fact, it's what every bit, jab, OTT jump and heartfelt emotion relies on. Sennott does charmingly forceful and unconstrained like she's breathing for it, while Edebiri has already shown how stellar she is at reacting on The Bear. Together, whether taking turns monologuing or diving into a bloodbath, they're unhinged magic. Also excellent: the supporting cast, from Gerber and Galitzine to Cruz and Lynch. The first makes good on casting a supermodel — and daughter of a supermodel, thanks to mum Cindy Crawford, who she couldn't more resemble — as the epitome of hotness, and makes her part shrewdly amusing. The second does the vain and overly dramatic himbo role to perfection. Cruz screams to be cast alongside Aubrey Plaza (Scott Pilgrim Takes Off) in a future project, and Lynch is progressing well on the Carl Weathers (The Mandalorian)- and Terry Crews (Brooklyn Nine-Nine)-led path of NFL players who've become actors. If one of the key tenets of any association, fists flying or not, is to have the best members, then Bottoms rises to the top while having a helluva raucously entertaining time.
Got a taste for the finer things, but your bank account doesn't feel quite the same way? Luckily, you can satisfy the former without totally draining the latter, when Botswana Butchery celebrates International Caviar Day on Monday, July 18. The New Zealand restaurant group's new Flinders Lane outpost is dishing up a budget-friendly taste of the high life, in honour of one of the world's fanciest ingredients. Roll in from 12pm and you can enjoy bumps of Giaveri white sturgeon caviar straight off the back of your hand, for just $5 a pop. Plus, you can team the gourmet seafood snack with a specially-priced drink match — $10 will get you a bump and a vodka shot, while a chic pairing of caviar and a glass of Perrier Jouet comes in at $15. If you're feeling extra fancy, the restaurant's usual caviar service will also be on offer, with two styles of Giaveri caviar served by the 30-gram or 50-gram tin, and matched with rice crisps, blinis, chopped egg and other classic accompaniments. Restaurant bookings can be made online, though there'll be walk-ins available too. Top Image: Garth Oriander
This month, the Yarra Valley rugs up to show off its finest winter offerings, for the return of region-wide food and wine festival Fireside. Running from Saturday, July 9–Sunday, July 24, the program is set to plate up a slew of events for all palates; from winemaker dinners and twilight markets, to fireside brunches and cosy overnight stays. And through it all, there'll be scores of opportunities to sample some of the area's finest vino. Enjoy a cheese-matched tasting of new-release drops in the Giant Steps barrel room (July 10), join mates for brunch at Chandon pairing sparkling pours with chic eats (July 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 & 24), and visit Six Acres Wines for a chilled afternoon dedicated to vino and vinyl (July 16). On July 16, Pope Joan's Bente Grysbaek hits Seville Estate for a four-course wine-matched dinner centred around fire and smoke, and on July 17, Healesville Sanctuary invites you for a drinks festival among the wildlife, featuring local beer and wine, live tunes and top-notch eats. Throw in a truffle feast, Tokar Estate's Spanish fiesta, a traditional asado dinner at Oakridge, and a pop-up cellar door manned by some of the region's winemaking legends, and you've got yourself a smorgasbord of wintry wine-filled fun.
Keen to get off the mainland for an immersive cultural experience that'll be sure to ignite your senses? Then make tracks to the East Coast Harvest Odyssey (ECHO Festival) happening in Tasmania this autumn. The 18+ event will be held from Friday, April 8 till Sunday, April 10 at Redbanks Farm near Swansea. Here, you and your mates can celebrate the rich cultural and culinary offerings that this region has to offer through a range of activities including grape stomping, morning mediations, inspiring talks and more. Love food? There'll be loads of tasty treats on offer from Cake & Honey Espresso, Tasmanian Oyster Company, Zen Gelato and more. Another highlight will be the Beaker Street Science Bar, a cosy yurt that's part-lab, part-cocktail lounge where you can sip on a cocktail while chatting with local scientists about Tasmania's giant (and disappearing) kelp forests, and the work being done to restore these treasured ecosystems. There'll also be a wine trail to explore, live music from the likes of Hayley Mary (The Jezabels) and Jem Cassar-Daly, kelp basket-making workshops and the immersive Womb Room — a pastel pink sensory space designed for wakening the senses of smell, sound and touch. Ready to explore a festival like no other? ECHO Festival will run from Friday, April 8 till Sunday, April 10 and tickets start from $125. To check out the full program and to grab tickets, visit the website.
For some intergenerational love, check out Grandmothers, a cross-cultural collaborative project by Multicultural Museums Victoria. Across five compelling exhibitions and a series of accompanying events, this project gives a special nod to all the yiayias, bubbes and nonnas out there. Discover the stories of grandmothers from across Melbourne, exploring just what the role means within different cultural communities. It's happening at The Chinese Museum, Co.As.It Museo Italiano, the Islamic Museum of Australia, the Hellenic Museum and the Jewish Museum of Australia. Details below. GRANDMOTHERS Wàipó — Chinese Museum, May 6 – August 16 Nonne: Images Through Generations — Co.As.It Italian Historical Society and Museo Italiano, May 6 – August 24 Yiayia — Hellenic Museum, May 6 – August 5 Our Grandmothers — Islamic Museum of Australia, May 6 – August 18 Love & Legacy — Jewish Museum of Australia, May 6 – October 28
Looking for some crackin' Christmas presents for the sweet toothed souls in your life? We think you'll find what you're looking for at Koko Black's new festive pop-up, Koko Pop. Making its home at 220 Collins Street from now until December 28, the one-stop chocolate shop is stocked to the brim with the artisan chocolate maker's full Christmas 2018 range. Simply look for the front windows plastered with cheeky one-liners — think, 'After Turkey Treats', 'To My Brat of A Child' and 'For the Boozy Buddy' — and head on in to find an array of Christmas-themed creations. Chocolate soldiers and ballerinas are sure to tempt kidult's tastebuds, as are the collectible pencil tins, filled with miniature chocolate animals, snowmen and Christmas trees. Elsewhere on the shelves, fancy blocks of chocolate are spiked with native Aussie ingredients such as wattleseed and macadamia, toasted sesame and spice, and vanilla and almond nougat. And of course, any Secret Santa will be pleased as punch to unwrap one of Koko Pop's gift boxes, a chocolate-filled 'Star Jar' or a festive hamper loaded with artisan goodies. Koko Pop is open from 9am–6pm, Monday–Wednesday and 9am–9pm, Thursday–Saturday. Images: Bryce Ford.
Noodles and gelato might be strange bedfellows, but the teams at Piccolina and Lagoon Dining see them as perfect pairs. To prove it, they're hosting a one-off Lunar New Year Lunch on Saturday, February 10, to welcome in the Year of the Dragon, during which diners will chase hand-made noodles with freshly churned scoops of gelato. For a modest $35, you'll get a bowl of cold sesame noodles served with chargrilled chicken, black vinegar and crispy soybeans, a scoop of one of the limited-edition Luna New Year gelatos (made by Piccolina and Lagoon Dining) and a fruity soda. Some of the six experimental gelato flavours will include a jackfruit, grapefruit and lime sorbet filled with coconut jellies; a creamy banana gelato with butterscotch ganache; a mango sorbet with lychee jellies; and a jasmine tea gelato with orange, caramelised figs and toasted walnuts. The flavour combos come courtesy of Lagoon Dining chefs, who are known for playfully blending Malaysian and Chinese cuisines. But if you can't make it to the Lunar New Year lunch, keep your cool. The gelatos will be available at all Piccolina stores from Wednesday, February 7 until Tuesday, February 27. It's perfect timing, as Melbourne is finally starting to heat up, and February is set to be a scorcher.
Ain't no party like a New Year's Day beach party, especially when three venues come together to put on an epic bash. Captain Baxter, Encore and the Sea Baths Rooftop are all joining forces for a day of music, food and festivities. Full cocktail bar and restaurant facilities will be available in Captain Baxter and Encore, and there will be complimentary canapés from 1pm-3pm. International acts for the day includes DJ Spen, Poolside, James Curd, as well as local players Prequel, DJ Peril and Anyo also on the bill.
Now that Melbourne's most recent lockdown is a few weeks behind us, spending all your time at home is no longer a requirement. And, if you're now keen to venture into the CBD outside of work hours, the City of Melbourne has a new affordable solution. Not everyone wants to spend too much time on public transport at present; however, getting a park in the city isn't usually a cheap option. That's changing until Sunday, August 22, with Wilson and Secure Parking doing $5 parking deals. That cheap fee is on offer after 4pm on weekdays and all day on weekends at 33 car parks, all to encourage Melburnians to spend more time in the CBD. The catch: you will need to pre-book before you drive in, either by hitting up either company's website or their app. And, you'll need to enter the code 'FOMO21' while booking. The City of Melbourne is promoting the deal as a way for the city's residents to help support local businesses — something that, via schemes such as FOMO Freebies, FOMO Fridays and Melbourne Money, it has been pushing heavily in recent months. "Every extra person that comes into the city provides an opportunity for local traders who have just been through the toughest trading period in decades," said Lord Mayor Sally Capp. "We want to bring back the buzz to Melbourne because a vibrant and busy city means more customers for businesses and more Melburnians in jobs." For more information about $5 parking at Wilson and Secure Parking until Sunday, August 22, head to the City of Melbourne website.
Throw on your going out pants: the Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival is back for another year. Featuring runway events, pop-ups, workshops and parties, as well as dozens of affiliated art shows, exhibitions, film screenings and more, the week-long celebration pays tribute to the world of haute couture in appropriately lavish style. The bulk of the festival takes place over seven days beginning Monday, March 7, with more than a dozen runways giving fashionistas the chance to catch a glimpse of the latest garments from some of the biggest designers in the country. But there's more to the program than just the latest trends. A tie-in exhibition at the Ian Potter Gallery pays tribute to two centuries of Australian fashion, while an art gallery in Bendigo has collected more than 20 original costumes and items of clothing worn by Marilyn Monroe. There's even a foodie element to the lineup, with a number of local dessert makers collaborating with designers on a tooth-rotting selection of sweet treats. For everything happening at the Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival, visit vamff.com.au.
Pairing movies with music is no longer new news, but the latest returning event that's serving up that combo is hoping for two things. Firstly, it's betting on a whole lot of love for Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey dancing up a storm in a classic 1987 romantic drama. Secondly, when it comes to getting excited about seeing that now 36-year-old flick on a big screen with its soundtrack performed live, it's hoping that you've never felt like this before. Obviously, Dirty Dancing in Concert wants to give you the time of your life as well — and to not only let you celebrate one of Swayze's biggest and most charming film roles, but to immerse you in the movie from the moment you take your seat. No one will be carrying watermelons or checking into Kellerman's Mountain House in the Catskills, but the digitally remastered feature will grace the big screen, and a live band and singers will perform its iconic songs as it plays. Just as swoon-worthy: the fact that those musicians will stick around afterwards to headline a party that'll naturally have you singing and dancing. If you're feeling adventurous and inspired by the movie, you might even want to try to recreate the famous lift. Here, nobody will put you or Francis 'Baby' Houseman in a corner — and you'd be just a fool to believe otherwise. Your hungry eyes will soak in Baby's first taste of dirty dancing, her eager rehearsals and her growing infatuation with Johnny Castle, as well as her parents' bitter unhappiness about the entire situation. This blast-from-the-past affair is touring Australia this winter, hitting Hamer Hall in Melbourne on Friday, September 1.
When you're grieving, you're haunted. Not in a literal sense, but you might wish you were. Instead, you're haunted by bittersweet flashes of happier times. Haunted by the spaces you shared with someone who'll never again walk through that door, sit on this couch or share your bed. Haunted by knowing you'll always associate certain places with a person who is gone forever. A Ghost Story only shows this experience directly for a small portion of its running time, but the entire movie whispers it like the sweet nothings the bereaved still yearn to hear. When M's (Rooney Mara) husband C (Casey Affleck) is killed suddenly, she roams around their Texan house, cries and devours a whole pie, and then eventually finds a way to move on. But he does not. Wearing the sheet M placed gingerly over his head when she identified his body, C gets up from his morgue slab, returns to their home, watches her grieve, and then continues to wait long after she has left. A woman mourns and a deceased man lingers. Drawing upon ideas as old as humanity, there's little else to the narrative than that. It's an easy plot gets an obvious gimmick to go with it, with Affleck spending the bulk of the film wearing a costume you probably donned as a kid. Emotionally and intellectually, however, the second collaboration between writer-director David Lowery and the two stars of his debut feature Ain't Them Bodies Saints couldn't be more intricate. Like standing under a sheet to jokingly taunt those around you, physically covering up the anxiety-inducing nature of mortality in the process, sometimes the simplest expressions of complex thoughts and feelings are the most effective. While everything that appears on screen seems straightforward — the bed linen attire, the feature's box-like Academy aspect ratio, the use of hard cuts to jump from one scene to another — watching A Ghost Story isn't the same as experiencing it. The film is as much about what happens inside of the audience as it is about what happens around C himself. As Affleck, who proves a skilled actor even under a sheet, observes new residents come and go, buildings rise and fall, and time swirl around, audiences are reminded of all the places that once meant something to them, and the people to whom those places will be forever tied. The sensation that creeps over you when you drive past your childhood home, revisit your old favourite bar, or walk past a site where something life-changing once happened to you: that's the sensation that A Ghost Story perfects. Ultimately, Lowery understands that it's people, rather than places, to whom ethereal memories cling, and that it's mourning that causes our minds to forever link individuals and experiences with certain spaces. Much, much more than just the human equivalent of a ghost emoji standing in an Instagram snap, A Ghost Story is moody and minimalistic in exactly the right ways, and one of the most astute depictions of grief to reach cinemas in a long time. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NcYZFmh3sHM
We all know there are items we shouldn't be stockpiling right now, but when we're all spending more time at home than usual it's probably a wise idea to stock up on some creature comforts — whether that's making a long list of shows we're planning to binge watch or stocking up the cellar with our favourite wines. Online cellar door Naked Wines launched in 2012 with the aim of connecting at-home wine drinkers with winemakers across Australia and New Zealand. Since then it's grown to include more than 53 winemakers and more than 100,000 'wine angels' — people who pay $40 a month to their Naked Wines account to use as credit to support the wineries they like and to receive discounts on bottles of vino. And those winemakers include the likes of Enfant Terrible from Adelaide Hills, Le Petit Mort from Queensland's Granite Belt and Hilltops, NSW, plus Blindside from Margaret River. You can order cases of six, 12 or 15 bottles. If you're based in Sydney, Melbourne or Perth, Naked Wines could be winging their way to you by the next working day. For Adelaide, Brisbane and Canberra, delivery is within two-to-four business days. It's also free delivery for members if you're in Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, however there are delivery costs of up to $20 outside of those cities. And, as we're all in need of a little comfort right now, we've partnered with our friends at Naked Wines to offer first-time Naked Wines customers over 18 a $100-voucher to spend on your next case of wine. Simply head to this link to make your purchase and double-check the conditions below. To use the voucher you must be 18 years or older. The voucher entitles first-time Naked Wines customers to $100 off their first order of 12 bottles. All orders are a minimum of 12 bottles, and a minimum spend of $155.88. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. *Next day delivery is available to Sydney, Melbourne and Perth metro areas for orders placed before 3pm. Naked Wines does not ship to Northern Territory. Delivery not included. Offer is subject to change. See website for full Terms and Conditions. This story includes affiliate links, which means Concrete Playground may receive a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase. This does not influence our editorial recommendations or content. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
As Australia's bushfire crisis spawns all variety of thoughtful fundraising efforts, a swag of legendary comedians are harnessing the power of some good, side-splitting chuckles, joining forces for the ultimate bushfire benefit gig. Descending on St Kilda's Palais Theatre on Monday, January 20, Stand Up For Bushfire Relief will see a star-studded cast of comics take to the stage in an effort to raise spirits, while also raising funds for our fire-affected Aussie communities. Some of the country's top talent has jumped on board, including big-name acts like Hannah Gadsby, Wil Anderson, Rhys Nicholson, Judith Lucy, Frank Woodley, Joel Creasey, Tom Ballard and stacks more. Together, they'll be serving up a jam-packed evening of stand-up comedy, yours to enjoy for $70, with all profits (except the booking fee and GST) going to support the Victorian Bushfire Appeal. Tickets are on sale via Ticketmaster from 2pm on Wednesday, January 8, though you'll want to be quick — with a lineup like that, this benefit is sure to sell out quick sticks. To get warmed up for the event, you can watch Hannah Gadsby's Nanette on Netflix (and the trailer below). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5aE29fiatQ0 Image: Jim Lee
