Ironically enough, this year's been another gnarly ride for Urbnsurf Melbourne. Australia's first surf park made its grand debut in January, 2020, but has endured a ping pong match of closures and reopenings ever since, thanks to the pandemic. Now, Urbnsurf is gearing up for what's hopefully its final return, announcing it'll fire up the waves once more starting from 7am this Saturday, October 23. While the park won't be open in all its glory just yet, it's kicking things off by taking up to 25 surfers per hour, across its two-hectare surfing lagoon. For now, a total of 50 guests are allowed onsite at any one time. Private sessions, surf lessons and spectator passes are on hold until restrictions ease further in early November, as is the anticipated reopening of the Three Blue Ducks restaurant. Facilities including the day beds, cabanas and skate pad will also come later, expected once Victoria hits its 80 percent double-dose vaccination target. Of course, there'll be a few new rules to follow from here on, in keeping with the Victorian Government's COVID-safe guidelines. Expect caps on numbers for lessons and surf sessions, mask rules as per current requirements, and proof of vaccination required for all guests over the age of 16. [caption id="attachment_756496" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Courtesy Urbnsurf and Ed Sloane[/caption] When you do hit the surf, you'll find a handful of brand-new wave settings to put you through your paces and test that post-lockdown fitness, including a point break-style set-up dubbed Cruiser Turns. There'll be lots more events and surfing options to follow, as metropolitan Melbourne's restrictions continue to ease. Find Urbnsurf from Saturday, October 23, near Melbourne Airport. It's usually open from 6am–10pm daily in spring and summer, with slightly varied hours during the first few weeks back. You can book in for surf sessions and surf lessons via the park's website. Images: Courtesy Urbnsurf, Ed Sloane and Adam Gibson.
Kevin Macdonald (The Last King of Scotland) directs How I Live Now, a film adapted from Meg Rosoff's 2004 novel of the same name by a team of writers including talented British playwright Penelope Skinner. Startlingly mature Irish actress Saoirse Ronan (Atonement, The Way Back) stars as Daisy, a strong-willed New York teenager sent to stay with English relatives one summer. Just as she's settling in and falling in love with her cousin Edmond (George MacKay), a nuclear bomb is detonated in London by an anarchist group and all hell breaks loose. The boys are conscripted into the army; the girls are taken to an evacuation camp, which is soon attacked by "the enemy". Forced to flee, Daisy faces an arduous journey to survive, get home and be reunited with Edmond. Featuring a largely young cast of up-and-comers, How I Live Now sounds a little bit like John Marsden's Tomorrow, When the War Began series, albeit set in England and with a much bigger budget. If you like your films on the adventurous side with a splash of romance and an impressively resilient heroine, then this could be right up your alley. How I Live Now is in cinemas on November 28, and thanks to Madman Films, we have ten double in-season passes to give away. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email us with your name and address. Sydney: win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au Melbourne: win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au Brisbane: win.brisbane@concreteplayground.com.au
Residents of 88 Melbourne suburbs are being told to hold off on drinking their tap water today (unless it's boiled), after last night's storms caused electrical damage impacting some of the city's water supply. Yarra Valley Water, which is Melbourne's largest retail water utility, sounded the alert via Twitter this morning. "Some water may have entered our drinking water supply network that had not been treated to the usual standard," the company has warned. Power has since returned and it's addressed the initial issue, though some areas are still being supplied with water that's not been properly treated. https://twitter.com/YVWater/status/1299136129200017408 Until it resolves the problem, Yarra Valley Water is advising residents of the impacted suburbs to take precautions and bring any tap water to a rolling boil before using it to drink, brush teeth, make ice, or prepare food or baby formula. The company Tweeted that the risk of illness from drinking the water is low, but that people should see their doctor if they experience any gastro-type symptoms. It's expecting things to be fixed by this afternoon and says it will send out confirmation when the suburbs' tap water supply is back to normal quality. To make matters worse, Yarra Valley Water's website has been having some issues of its own today and has been down for part of the morning. But if you want to know which suburbs have been affected, here they are: Attwood Bayswater Bayswater North Blackburn Blackburn North Blackburn South Boronia Box Hill North Broadmeadows Bulleen Bundoora Burwood Burwood East Campbellfield Chirnside Park Coburg North Coldstream Coolaroo Craigieburn Croydon Croydon Hills Croydon North Croydon South Dallas Doncaster Doncaster East Donvale Doreen Eltham Epping Fawkner Forest Hill Glen Waverley Greensborough Greensborough Greenvale Heathmont Kalorama Kangaroo Ground Kilsyth Kilsyth South Kingsbury Lalor Lilydale Lower Plenty Meadow Heights Melbourne Airport Mernda Mill Park Mitcham Monbulk Mont Albert North Montmorency Montrose Mooroolbark Mount Dandenong Mount Evelyn Mount Waverley North Warrandyte Nunawading Olinda Park Orchards Plenty Research Reservoir Ringwood Ringwood East Ringwood North Roxburgh Park Silvan Somerton South Morang Templestowe Templestowe Lower The Basin Thomastown Vermont Vermont South Viewbank Wantirna Warrandyte Warrandyte South Warranwood Westmeadows Wollert Wonga Park Yallambie Yarrambat For updates on the water supply issue, keep an eye on Yarra Valley Water's Twitter account.
Ikea have posted an interactive app on YouTube which takes all your personal information from Facebook, should you allow it to, to create a personalised 3D mock-up of your new bedroom kitted out entirely in durable and inexpensive Swedish design. Starting off like an everyday advertisement for Ikea, the video gets taken over by the app which accesses information about your life and tailors it to the smallest details, including photos from your Facebook albums hanging in the picture frames. As a nice touch they build the walls out of your wall posts, before they paint them over in solid colour and a solemn British voice accounces that the products are the definitive ones which will help you go 'happy to bed.' The app is part of Ikea's UK campaign, but it's open to anybody with a Facebook account, and is designed specifically to reflect the person's personality, lifestyle and interests. Now, having recently invested in a new bed, bedside table and bookshelf from Ikea, I was particularly intrigued to find out whether it would all match up with the predictive magic of the internet. But, sadly no. They chucked in the bed I decided against, rather than the one I bought, a narrow desk which doesn't account for the amount of junk I frequently have lying around, and they framed pictures which are nearly all of me pulling my 'I am unhappy about being photographed face.' And they forgot a bookshelf, which comprises a full wall of my room at the moment. But my complaining aside, if you always wanted confirmation that your chest of drawers were perfectly aligned to your personality, you now have an easy way to find out. https://youtube.com/watch?v=hQYe7OMoJNA [Via PSFK]
Mitch Jones, aka Captain Ruin of Caravan of Doom, brings to Melbourne his playful new show, One Night Stand. Having recently escaped incarceration in a Turkish jail, Ruin's stories of tragedy and misfortune provide a stepping stone for the audience into his world of thrill seeking and living life on the edge. Seductively combining song, strip tease, circus, and comedy, the show leads the audience on a journey through Ruins' experiences and adventures from around the world. Amongst this playful performer's textured web of humorous stories, eccentricity and satire, there is a deep and clear message of prevailing against the impossible. Filled with dry social commentary, satirical wit and a healthy dose of physical humour, this exuberant evening will be a mixture of both excitement and reflection. Described as raunchy, raw and a little bit dirty, Ruin's performance sounds like the perfect One Night Stand.
Hitting the indoor mini-golf course for a few holes of pop culture-themed fun and a few rounds of delightfully named beverages isn't just something Brisbanites should enjoy, or Sydney residents either. After launching in Queensland in late 2016, and announcing their first New South Wales venture just last week, Holey Moley Golf Club has revealed plans for its first Melbourne digs. Come April 20, prepare to tee off at 590 Little Bourke Street in the CBD, with 27 holes of club-swinging antics on offer across two levels. It'll be Holey Moley's biggest venue yet, which means that there's plenty of room for creative courses. How will they top Brissie's glow-in-the-dark room, Big Lebowski offering, putting versions of skeeball, pinball, eightball and Twister, and all-round mini-golf insanity? How indeed. Just what themes Melburnians will be tap, tap, tapping their way through is yet to be revealed, although everyone will be able to break out into song at the same time, with karaoke part of the antics. If you choose to work your way through the Happy Gilmore soundtrack, no one will stop you (at least not any of the staff). Drinks-wise, expect cocktails. Brisbane's Caddyshack Bar boasts a pun-laden drinks list that includes the Putty Professor, the Teeyonce Knowles and a Long Island Iced Tee (just what it sounds like, but with an appropriate name). Beer, cider and wine will also be available, but when you're aiming for a hole-in-one, it seems appropriate to be drinking from one (made from Pampero white rum, cinnamon whisky, half a banana, sugar syrup and a doughnut — yep, a doughnut) at the same time. Holey Moley Golf Club will open at 590 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne from April 20. For more info, check out their website and Facebook page.
Like karaoke? Fond of singing along to well-known songs, especially with a drink in your hand? Happy to belt out a tune in a crowd? If you answered yes to all of the above questions, then it's time to up your crooning game during Pub Choir's new Australian tour — aka the boozy sing-along that's all about giving your lungs a workout between sips. Since early 2017 in Brisbane, Pub Choir has been amassing brew-loving music fans in venues around the Queensland city. The regular event asks its attendees to learn a particular song in three-part harmonies, with talented professionals on hand each time to show everyone the ropes and lead the way. Every evening then culminates in a big boozy singing session, with the event making its way to bigger Brissie locations over the years, as well venturing around the country. Now, it's hitting up every Aussie capital across January and February 2022. The vibe: a far more organised version of exactly what happens whenever someone puts 'Wonderwall' or 'Weather With You' on the pub jukebox. And, now that communal singing in public is back after all the various pandemic-related restrictions that've come our way over the past two years, you can expect this tour to feel particularly celebratory, too. Pub Choir was a big hit during lockdowns, and as life started to return to normal as well; you might've taken part in Couch Choir in 2020, or watched the Australia's Biggest Singalong special on SBS earlier in 2021. Run by Astrid Jorgensen and Waveney Yasso, its IRL events are mighty popular, too — unsurprisingly — with tickets getting snapped up very quickly each time. So if you're keen to sing and drink with a theatre full of people, you'll want to book asap. PUB CHOIR CHEAP THERAPY 2022 TOUR: Tuesday, January 11 — The Kambri Precinct, Canberra Wednesday, January 12 — Enmore Theatre, Sydney Monday, January 17 — Astor Theatre, Perth Tuesday, January 18 — Freo Social, Fremantle Wednesday, January 19 — Adelaide Town Hall, Adelaide Thursday, January 20 — Darwin Entertainment Centre, Darwin Tuesday, January 25 — Odeon Theatre, Hobart Thursday, January 27 — The Palais Theatre, Melbourne Tuesday, February 1–Wednesday, February 2 — The Tivoli, Brisbane Pub Choir's Cheap Therapy tour runs from January 11–February 2, 2022. For further details or to book tickets, head to the Pub Choir website. Top image: Jacob Morrison.
Giving music lovers Splendour in the Grass, Falls Festival, Spilt Milk and Harvest Rock is a massive task and achievement, but that's not all that's on Secret Sounds' festival calendar. This summer, the team is also bringing a lineup led by Flume, Foals and The Avalanches to Melbourne for Heaps Good. To get 2023 started in style, Adelaide scored a brand-new music fest in January, with Heaps Good starting as a one-day, one-city event with Arctic Monkeys headlining. It clearly went well, because Secret Sounds announced back in August that the festival will expand its footprint, taking to the Sidney Myer Music Bowl stage on Sunday, December 31, 2023. [caption id="attachment_918622" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Zac Bayly[/caption] Having Flume and The Avalanches on the same bill is quite the homegrown feat, with Britain's Foals joining them. Also playing Melbourne: Griff, Holly Humberstone, MAY-A, Sycco and Logan. Heaps Good's Victorian stop will score a Basement Jaxx DJ set as well, and SBTRKT is also on the lineup. [caption id="attachment_912808" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dylan Minchenberg[/caption] HEAPS GOOD 2023–24 LINEUP: Flume Foals The Avalanches Griff Holly Humberstone MAY-A Sycco Logan Basement Jaxx SBTRKT Top image: Ian Laidlaw.
Lengthy is the list of Australian actors who've started their careers on home soil, then boosted their fame, acclaim and fortunes by heading abroad. Some have won Oscars. Others are global household names. One plays a pigtailed comic book villain in a big film franchise, while another dons a cape and wields a hammer in a competing blockbuster saga. David Gulpilil doesn't earn any of the above descriptions, and he isn't destined to. It wouldn't interest him, anyway. His is the face of Australian cinema, though, and has been for half a century. Since first gracing the silver screen in Nicolas Roeg's Walkabout, the Yolŋu man has gifted his infectious smile and the irrepressible glint in his eye to many of the nation's most important movies. Indeed, to peruse his filmography is to revel in Aussie cinema history. On his resume, 70s classics such as Mad Dog Morgan and The Last Wave sit alongside everything from Crocodile Dundee and Rabbit-Proof Fence to Australia, Goldstone and Cargo — as well as parts in both the first 1976 film adaptation of Storm Boy and its 2019 remake. The latest film to benefit from the Indigenous talent's presence: My Name Is Gulpilil. It might just be the last do to so, however. That sad truth has been baked into the documentary ever since its subject asked director Molly Reynolds and producer Rolf de Heer — two filmmakers that Gulpilil has collaborated with before, including on Another Country, Charlie's Country, Ten Canoes and The Tracker — to make something with him after he was diagnosed with stage-four lung cancer. That was back in 2017, when he was given just six months to live. Gulpilil has been proving that diagnosis wrong ever since. This heartfelt portrait of an Australian icon like no other also benefits from his defiance, particularly in practical terms. Initially starting out as a 30-day shoot, the doco eventually extended over twice that period, with Gulpilil, Reynolds and their movie alike all given the most precious thing there is: more time. The film that results celebrates a star who'll never be matched, and reminds viewers exactly why that's the case — but My Name Is Gulpilil isn't a mere easy, glossy tribute. Anyone could've combined snippets of Gulpilil's movies with talking heads singing his praises. In the future, someone probably will. But Reynolds is interested in truly spending time with Gulpilil, hearing his tale in his own words, and painting as complete a portrait of his life, work, dreams, regrets, spirit, culture and impact as possible. Accordingly, this touching feature steps through Gulpilil's highs and lows as relayed by the man himself. It spends much of its duration enjoying simply being with dancer, painter and actor, in fact. It surveys his daily routine in Murray Bridge in South Australia, too, where he now lives with a carer so that he can get western medicine's help. It also follows him to appointments, then watches on as he weathers his treatments. In her thoughtful, contemplative, affectionate and astute approach, Reynolds lets her audience peer deeply and listen intently. Her film favours soaking, basking and ruminating over clapping and cheering, and it was always going to be all the better for it. Marking and commemorating Gulpilil's many achievements is important, and his feats should and will rightly be remembered and saluted — but even the most vivid collection of clips and most enthusiastic rundown of his awards and other successes can only convey part of his story. There's just nothing like just passing the minutes with Gulpilil, especially when he stares directly at the camera, dives into his memories and unleashes one of his many sprawling but powerful tales. There's also nothing like facing him, taking in all that he's done for Aussie cinema and Indigenous representation, and simultaneously confronting the fact that he's unlikely to brighten up our screens again. My Name Is Gulpilil is many things, including a clear-eyed picture of a man trying to navigate terminal cancer and everything that comes with it — and it doesn't shy away from that reality at any turn. Just as moving and pivotal is its commitment to showing Gulpilil's approach to the end that awaits us all. By choosing to live in Murray Bridge to undergo treatment, he chooses to live away from Country, a decision that visibly haunts him. So, he prepares for what he describes as a one-way ticket home by planning. He spins his hair into fibre, and talks through the ceremony that will farewell both his body and spirit. For Reynolds, he poses in a coffin beneath unspooled reels of film. There's playfulness in the latter image, but such a forthright approach to death never comes as a surprise. When My Name Is Gulpilil addresses Gulpilil's time in the long grass, his run-ins with the law and his addictions, mentioning them alongside his trip to Cannes, meeting with the Queen, and interactions with everyone from Muhammad Ali to Bob Marley, the film is similarly frank and unflinching. My Name Is Gulpilil does still feature glimpses of its namesake's movies, of course. Given the wealth of material at hand — spanning plenty of the aforementioned titles, plus plenty more — no ode to Gulpilil would be complete without clips here and there. Just as Reynolds ensures that her audience genuinely takes in his inimitable presence, his culture, his health, and his ups and downs, she finds poetic ways to segue from archival and film footage to present-day scenes and back, putting them all to the most meaningful use. With editor Tania Nehme's (ShoPaapaa) considerable help, this documentary proves an act of cinematic weaving, rather than unfurling. It knows when to watch Gulpilil and an emu walk the same dusty path, when quiet reflection from the man himself is in order, and when snippets of his candour and charm from his 2004 one-man autobiographical stage show are needed instead. It's also well aware that no one will ever get the chance to make this movie again, and that only a film of astounding intimacy, honesty and insight could ever do the face of Australian cinema justice. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vK1DLvEkvtA&feature=emb_logo
UPDATE, January 18, 2022: MIFF's Hear My Eyes: Two Hands screenings were originally meant to take place in August 2021; however, the festival moved online due to lockdown and these sessions are now being held in January 2022. This article has been updated to reflect that change. Whenever you hear Powderfinger's 'These Days', do you instantly imagine a fresh-faced Heath Ledger and Rose Byrne? If so, congrats — you've seen one of the best Australian films of the 90s, and one of the best Aussie movies in general, too. The song played a significant part in Two Hands, but you mightn't hear it at the Melbourne International Film Festival's big-screen session of the classic flick. It's screening at the fest's regular Hear My Eyes gigs — playing out of season in January 2022 due to 2021's COVID-19 chaos — which pairs must-see features with a reimagined score that's also played live on the night. Doing the honours this time around: The Murlocs. So, you'll be watching them bust out their rhythm and blues sounds as Gregor Jordan's (Dirt Music) exceptional crime film unfurls. They're taking to the stage at The Astor Theatre for four sessions across Saturday, January 29 (at 6pm and 9pm) and Sunday, January 30 (at 3pm and 6pm) and, unsurprisingly, these sessions are set to prove mighty popular ticket-wise. Need a refresher on the movie? Haven't seen it yet, somehow? It follows Jimmy (the one and only Ledger), an ex–street kid and strip-club bouncer who is charged with delivering some cash for his boss (Bryan Brown, Hungry Ghosts). That doesn't turn out as planned, so soon he's on the run — alongside Alex (Byrne, worlds away from her recent role in Physical), the girl of his dreams.
Uber, you sly geniuses. In a bold marketing move, Uber have launched UberKITTENS, a service with actually brings kittens to your office for 15 minutes of cuddles. Launching today around Australia in six locations (Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane included), you'll be able to front up $40 and Uber will drive a rescue kitten to your home or office as part of an Australia-wide fundraiser. GET GOING. NOW. Uber posted on their blog today: "Following the huge success of UberKITTENS in the US, we were inundated with requests from riders and some amazing local shelters to bring it to our shores so we could share the kitten love and spread the word about the importance of finding much needed homes for our furry friends." How can has kitten? 1. Download the Uber app. 2. Request the 'KITTENS' option in the app TODAY between 12pm and 4pm within the Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane CBD and surrounding suburbs. 3. If kittens are available, you will get to enjoy 15 minutes of furry cuteness delivered to your office, your sweetheart, or even your favourite cat lady. 4. Pro Tip: Demand for #UberKITTENS will be off the charts so please be patient in your quest for kitten playtime. All the funds go to the participating shelter and you can even adopt the little guy. Looks like cat lovers have a lot to celebrate after yesterday's announcement for Sydney's very first cat cafe. Via Mumbrella.
If you've ever sat down to play Mario Kart on any of the various devices that the beloved game has popped up on over the years — Google Maps, mobile phones and reality also included — then you've likely learned two things. Firstly, rainbow roads are truly something else. Secondly, you can never have too much Mario in your life. The folks at Universal Studios clearly agree on the second point, as everyone should, and they gave us an IRL Nintendo-themed amusement park in 2022 to prove it. Open for the past year, the globe's first Super Nintendo World is part of Universal Studios in Osaka, and it looks glorious — thanks to life-sized recreations of both Bowser's Castle (complete with spiked fences and heavy iron doors) and Peach's Castle, plus Mario Kart rides as well. [caption id="attachment_804547" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nintendo and Universal Studios[/caption] Super Nintendo World was never going to be an Osaka exclusive, though. The Japanese theme park isn't losing its latest attraction, but more were always planned for Universal Studios in Hollywood, Orlando and Singapore. And, come 2023, you'll definitely be able to live out your IRL Mario Kart dreams in Tinseltown, because that's when and where the next Super Nintendo World is opening. Exactly what Universal Studios Hollywood's version will include hasn't yet been confirmed, and neither has an exact opening date — but if a trip to the US is on your agenda next year, it now has a new stop. In a press release announcing the 2023 launch, Universal Studios advised that the new Super Nintendo World will be "a visual spectacle of vibrant colours and architectural ingenuity located within a newly expanded area of the theme park, featuring a groundbreaking ride and interactive areas, to be enjoyed by the whole family", although that's obviously still quite vague. Unsurprisingly, themed shopping and dining will be a big part of the experience, of course. #SuperNintendoWorld is opening in 2023 at Universal Studios Hollywood! Level up with exclusive merch at the Feature Presentation store, opening soon. pic.twitter.com/4qh0bDACGN — Universal Studios Hollywood (@UniStudios) March 10, 2022 If you'd like to try to glean some clues from Osaka's Super Nintendo World, it lets you enter via a warp pipe — naturally — and there's simply no mistaking its Nintendo-themed space for anywhere else. And, Osaka's Mario Kart fix comes courtesy of Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge, where patrons race through familiar Mario Kart courses that've been brought to life. Yes, as you steer your way along the track, you're surrounded by characters such as Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach. You can also throw shells to take out your opponents, because it wouldn't be Mario Kart without them. If you're wondering how it all works, it's a blend of physical sets, augmented reality, projection mapping and screen projection, all designed to make you feel like you're really in the game. Also a highlight in Osaka: Yoshi's Adventure, which lets you climb on Yoshi's back; the world's first Mario cafe, as kitted out with a red and green colour scheme; and wearable wrist bands, called Power Up Bands, which connect to a special app and allow patrons to interact with the site using their arms, hands and bodies (and enable you to collect coins just like Mario does in the Super Mario games). Fingers crossed that they all make the leap to Hollywood, too. Super Nintendo World will open at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2023. For more information, keep an eye on the theme park's website. Top image: Nintendo and Universal Studios.
Things are heating up at The B.East on Lygon Street, the official home of the Melbourne Chilli Eating Championship. On Sunday, March 8, 24 brave souls will put their lives on the line in this searing hot contest to find Melbourne's steeliest tastebuds. Doors open at noon, with the main event kicking off at 2pm. The contest consists of three knockout rounds, with things getting progressively spicier as the competition intensifies. Participants can be eliminated by tapping out, passing out or vomiting their guts up – although, hopefully it doesn't come to that. It starts with fresh pods and spicy food, progresses to jalapeños and all culminates with the consumption of the Carolina Reaper. If you'd like to partake, you need to sign up in person at The B.East for $10. And sign a waiver, of course. If you'd like to just watch, it's free to be a spectator. In addition to the championship, there'll be a special spicy menu available from 12pm (with spicy hot dogs and burgers), Pabst beer and tequila specials, hot sauce tastings and a pop-up hot sauce shop. There'll also be live bands and DJs from 7pm once the comp has wrapped up.
`Get your best frocks, glitter eye shadow and party shoes ready as the biggest celebration of the year is about to go down: New Year's Eve. Now, Melburnians, don't fret if you won't be up north on a beach or in front of the Eiffel Tower when all the clocks tick over to start the new year — plenty is going on right here in your home city (the best city, in our humble opinion). From hidden bars to masquerade and garden parties, Melbourne has it all, complete with endless flowing booze, of course. Whatever your vibe is for the night, there's an event to cater to it, so we've teamed up with Australian Venue Co. to bring you ten stellar options. Say goodbye to 2019 and bring in 2020 surrounded by bright-eyed partygoers and a few of your nearest and dearest.
If all you wanted for an early Christmas gift this year was for the Matildas to put on a spectacular show at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, Australia's national women's soccer team didn't disappoint. If all you're now hoping for this actual festive season is to hear three of the squad's stars chat about their experiences — and their careers in general, as well as what's brought them to this point — then the first-ever Open Air Live event is going to deliver there, too. Taking place at 5pm on Thursday, December 21 at Sydney's Commbank Stadium, Open Air Live will feature Matildas goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold, forward Mary Fowler and defender Alanna Kennedy, who'll be back in Australia to get talking. All three impressed on the pitch in July and August, and cemented their place as Aussie sporting heroes, even if the semi-final loss to England meant that the Matildas didn't end up with the ultimate prize. On offer as well: a live masterclass where Arnold, Fowler and Kennedy will show off their skills; and a match-day vibe thanks to four stages and ample use of the stadium screens. "I'm excited to be part of the Open Air Live event in Sydney this December. Mackenzie, Alanna and I will be taking the field at CommBank stadium for a huge night of entertainment; you won't want to miss this!" said Fowler. "I can't wait to join Mackenzie and Mary on the pitch for an incredible night of entertainment. Everyone is welcome, and we look forward to putting on a great show," added Kennedy. "Bring your families along and join Alanna, Mary and I in sharing our stories. It will be a great night of entertainment. We can't wait to see you there," advised Arnold. There's obviously plenty for the three Matildas players to discuss. Their Women's World Cup efforts enraptured the entire nation, including breaking viewing records to become the most-watched program on Aussie TV since 2001 when current records began, and likely ever. They had Nikki Webster sing to them in Brisbane afterwards, and are getting a team statue in the Queensland capital. And, of course, the campaign was the result of years of hard work both as a squad and on the individual level to get the Tillies to this point. Arnold, Fowler and Kennedy will be back in Australia for the event from the UK, where all the trio play in the Women's Super League. Arnold is West Ham United's captain, while Fowler and Kennedy remain on the same team at Manchester City. The full Matildas squad will also return to home turf for three games at the end of October and beginning of November, for Olympic qualifying matches in Perth. They play Iran on Thursday, October 26; The Philippines on Sunday, October 29; and Chinese Taipei on Wednesday, November 1. Open Air Live with Mackenzie Arnold, Mary Fowler and Alanna Kennedy will take place at 5pm on Thursday, December 21 at Sydney's Commbank Stadium, 11–13 O'Connell St, Parramatta — head to the ticketing website for more details and tickets.
Break out the waffles: Amy Poehler is coming to Australia. If you're a Parks and Recreation fan, nothing less than eating breakfast foods non-stop between now and the end of May will do to celebrate. The actor behind Leslie Knope — and Saturday Night Live legend, and voice of Joy in both Inside Out and Inside Out 2 — has a date with Vivid Sydney, heading to the Harbour City for an in-conversation event that'll see her chat through her career. Inside Out 2 releases in cinemas in mid-June, so it'll receive plenty of focus when Poehler gets talking — so much so that the Sydney Opera House evening that'll be moderated by Zan Rowe will include a 30-minute first-look at the film. But her work spans far and wide beyond the animated Pixar franchise, including to films such as Baby Mama and Sisters, writing the hilarious Yes Please and unforgettable Golden Globe hosting gigs with Tina Fey. [caption id="attachment_793108" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Photo by: Chris Haston/NBC[/caption] Poehler's session will take place on Monday, May 27, making it one of the early highlights of the festival. It comes after 2023's Vivid Sydney also featured a massive screen-focused in-conversation session, welcoming The White Lotus' Jennifer Coolidge and Mike White.
Back in 2010, Ryan Gosling starred in a crime drama called All Good Things, playing a real estate heir suspected to be behind his wife's disappearance, as well as other murders. It isn't a highlight on his resume, but you'll see the feature very differently once you've watched six-part HBO docuseries The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst — because Gosling's character is based on Durst, and because filmmaker Andrew Jarecki directed both the movie and the series. True crime isn't a new genre, but The Jinx proved one of its big hitters when it was initially released in 2015. While it was originally airing, Durst was arrested on murder charges, with the criminal proceedings still ongoing to this day. Jarecki's series draws upon more than 20 hours of interviews with Durst, conducted over a number of years, and it'll drop you right into the middle of a twisty case. The minutiae is best experienced by watching, but the show's finale isn't easily forgotten.
It was a year of gun-toting racoons, talking Lego and trying desperately to catch a glimpse of Ben Affleck’s junk in the shower. Yes, the last 12 months saw the release of some truly terrific movies, from Hollywood hits that dominated the box-office to startling foreign and indie films that only a handful of people bothered to see. But enough about the past. January is already well underway, and a whole crop of new releases are on the horizon. This promises to be another huge year for cinema, with the latest instalments in blockbuster franchises including The Fast and the Furious 7, Mission: Impossible 5 and The Hunger Games Part 3B, not to mention perhaps the most hotly anticipated sequel of them all: Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2. Of course the above titles only scratch the surface. Presented in the order they’re due to be released, here’s our list of the 12 motion pictures we’re most looking forward to in 2015. You’ll be pleased to note that there isn’t a single Hobbit movie to be found. FOXCATCHER The latest film from Moneyball director Bennett Miller tells the unsettling true story of reclusive millionaire John DuPont, whose sponsorship of the US Olympic wrestling team coincided with a spiral into madness. A cast that includes Channing Tatum and Mark Ruffalo is enough to pique our interest, but it’s comedian Steve Carell who has been kicking up Oscar buzz for his against-type dramatic performance as DuPont. Out January 29 ROSEWATER Comedian Jon Stewart took time out from hosting The Daily Show in order to shoot this film about Maziar Bahari, a Canadian-Iranian journalist imprisoned by the Iranian regime. Not exactly the barrel of laughs you might expect from Stewart’s directorial debut. Then again, it’s only fitting that he be the one to tell the story, given that the “evidence” the Iranians used to justify Bahari’s detention included an interview he gave on Stewart’s show. Out February 19 TOP FIVE Speaking of comedians in the director’s chair, Chris Rock’s Top Five sees the funny-man working three jobs as writer, director and star. In a foul-mouthed takedown of the media and entertainment industries, Rock plays Andre Allen, a popular movie comedian who wants to be taken seriously. The film looks hilarious, and has a seriously stacked cast — including Rosario Dawson, Tracey Morgan and Kevin Hart — as well as cameos from Whoopi Goldberg, Adam Sandler and Jerry Seinfeld. Out March 5 INHERENT VICE Joaquin Phoenix heads a host of enviable Hollywood talent in Paul Thomas Anderson’s strange adaptation of Thomas Pynchon’s novel. A stoner crime thriller, Inherent Vice looks like the spiritual cousin to The Big Lebowski, and not at all like Anderson’s previous films, which include The Master and There Will Be Blood. Reviews out of the States have been divided, which really only makes us want to see it more. Out March 12 MOMMY The best film of last year’s festival circuit, this masterpiece of melodrama from Quebecois wunderkind Xavier Dolan is a movie you can’t afford to miss. An emotional roller coaster presented in 1:1 aspect ratio, the story follows a brassy single mother whose teenage son suffers from violent mood swings as well as ADHD. Seriously, if this film doesn’t make you cry buckets, you flat out haven’t got a heart. Out March 26 AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON Avengers assemble! The red-hot sequel to Marvel’s superhero phenomenon reunites all your favourite costumed heroes, including Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk and Thor. The most important returnee, however, is writer-director Joss Whedon, whose witty dialogue and knack for ensemble character dynamics was a huge part of why the first film was so great. Out April 23 MAD MAX: FURY ROAD Australia’s most iconic action hero is back for round four. Tom Hardy replaces Mel Gibson as Road Warrior Max Rockatansky in this sequel-cum-reboot 30-odd years in the making. From the insane visuals in the trailer, it would appear that original director George Miller hasn’t lost his touch. Hard to believe this is the same guy who made Happy Feet. Out May 14 INSIDE OUT The latest film from the geniuses at Disney Pixar looks like one of their most original yet. Directed by Pete Docter of Up and Monsters Inc. fame, Inside Out takes place inside the mind of young girl, as Joy, Anger, Disgust, Fear and Sadness steer her through life as best they can. Out June 18 SPECTRE Daniel Craig returns as Britain’s most deadly secret agent, with a supporting cast that includes Monica Belluci, Dave Bautista and Christoph Waltz. If the title is anything to go by, the latest Bond film will see 007 go up against his most notorious enemy, the international crime syndicate SPECTRE. We’re calling it now: Waltz is playing Blofeld. Out November 19 STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS Yes, we’ve been burnt with new Star Wars films before. But come on, how can you not be excited, or at least curious, by the prospect of returning to a galaxy far, far away? And without the influence of George Lucas, we’re hopeful that The Force Awakens might actually be good, or at least not bogged down by the politics of trade negations. Now excuse us while we re-watch the trailer for the 5000th time. Out December 18 THE HATEFUL EIGHT Two words: Quentin Tarantino. The script for his latest Western leaked online last year, leading to fears that he’d scrap the project altogether. Thankfully QT got over his little temper tantrum and is moving ahead with production. The Hateful Eight is being shot on glorious 70mm film with a cast that includes Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, Michael Madsen and Bruce Dern. Release Date TBA MACBETH Australian director Justin Kurzel made serious waves with his debut film Snowtown. For his follow-up, he’s put together a lavish adaptation of Shakespeare’s iconic play, with Michael Fassbender starring as the ambitious Scottish soldier and Marion Cotillard as his conniving lady wife. Release Date TBA
Rise up, Hamilton fans — whether you're a Sydneysider counting down the days until the biggest musical of the past decade finally makes its way to our shores, or you're an aficionado elsewhere in the country that's been spending the past couple of months streaming the filmed version on Disney+. Whichever category you fall into, you won't want to throw away your shot at glory at Totally F*ct Trivia's Hamilton night. You don't need to be young, scrappy and hungry to succeed at this trivia evening. You don't need to have seen oceans rise and empires fall, either. You will need to know plenty about Hamilton, though, of course. And, there are two ways to get some skin in the game: by heading along in-person and taking part in the room where it happens, or by live-streaming the fun when push comes to shove. As hosted by The Chaser's Julian Morrow, Totally F*ct Trivia: Hamilton Edition will next take over the Giant Dwarf Theatre in Redfern from 6.30pm on Tuesday, October 20. Yes, it was a such a hit when it last took place in September that it's coming back — like that oh-so-catchy King George III song told us. Tickets to attend physically cost $20, or $30 with two drinks included. Connect virtually for $10 for one person, $15 for a couple and $20 for a group of three or more if you want to get involved from home. And if you need a refresher, check out the Hamilton Disney+ trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSCKfXpAGHc Totally F*ct Trivia: 'Hamilton' Edition takes place from 6.30pm on Tuesday, September 8 — live at the Giant Dwarf Theatre in Redfern, or you can play along via live-stream from around the country as well. Top image: Hamilton filmed version courtesy Disney+. Updated September 26.
Looking for another idea for date night? There are stacks of things to do in Melbourne, but coming up with something novel isn't always easy. Good news: Capitano, the cosy Carlton bar from the folks behind Bar Liberty, has come to your rescue with a brand new cocktail and pizza deal to kick off your next romantic night out. The cocktail is Capitano's take on the classic whisky highball. Forget your run-of-the-mill whisky and soda. Instead, innovative bartender and all-round hospo legend Darren Leaney has teamed up with Johnnie Walker, to take the well-loved drink to a new level. You'll be sipping on a highball, but not as you know it. It'll be made with leatherwood honey, barley tea, saline, soda and Johnnie Walker Black Label Blended Scotch Whisky. Named the 'Leatherwood Highball' ($18), this refreshing tasting drink will join the Capitano menu on Tuesday, September 17. Better yet, the restaurant's making your next night out an affordable one, too. From 5.30–6.30pm every day, you can grab a pizza (classic cheese or tomato) and a Leatherwood Highball for $30. So, you and your partner in crime can settle in for a night of great food and booze at this fun art deco spot on Rathdowne Street — without blowing the bank. Image: Kate Shanasy.
MPavilion, Queen Victoria Gardens' pop-up building designed by Barcelona architect Carme Pinós, is hosting one of the year's largest collections of free events — 400 of 'em, to be exact. This year's bioluminescent-themed program is inspired by Pinós and will take over the gardens from October 9 to February 3, 2019. Focusing on inclusion, women in leadership and the architecture of education, the four-month program spans live music, dance performances, talks, workshops and installations — all located inside Pinós' floating geometric structure. Many of these events aren't what you'd expect, either. Think dog walking adventures, fashion shows, regular morning yoga sessions, guided meditations and contemporary dance classes. Hands-on workshops include one with designer Vicky Featherston Tu, in which participants build a pedestrian-only city using origami techniques. A discussion on beekeeping and baking and a talk on building video game worlds and virtual reality experiences are on offer, too. Two massive parties will take over the space as well — first a Halloween ball on October 27, and then a marriage equality celebration on November 17 (featuring JOY 94.9 radio and the city's best queer DJs). There'll be plenty of local and international musicians on throughout the four months, including weekly gigs at Friday Night Fiestas. Other highlights include Hope St Radio's live broadcast on October 27, a performance by emerging Indigenous singer-songwriter Alice Skye on November 18, and a series of Bakehouse Studios' secret rehearsal sessions, with the artists announced the day before. Plus, Cuba's La Buena Vida Social Club will play three Sunday arvo sessions on October 14, November 11 and December 9, with special sangria served at the kiosk during these shows. If you're interested in the strictly architecture and design side of things, discussion topics include: 'the future is gender neutral design', 'how to start and sustain your creative project', 'perfectionism: pressure to be perfect' and the 'living closer together: symposium'. There'll also be five panel talks on Indigenous built environments with architecture forum BLAKitecture, including 'women's business' and 'Indigenising procurement'. To meet this year's MPavilion designer, you can catch a talk with Pinós on October 9, titled 'the land on which we stand'. For 2018, they've also signed on writer-in-residence Maddee Clark and artist-in-residence Esther Stewart, who will explore the intersection between architecture, writing and art. Stewart will also create a large-scale interactive installation that'll fit alongside Pinós pavilion, open from December 24–January 6.
If you're a fictional movie or TV character facing a towering kaiju, any amount of Godzilla is usually too much Godzilla. If you're a creature-feature fan, however, there's no such thing as too much Godzilla. And, with Japanese film Godzilla Minus One and American streaming series Monarch: Legacy of Monsters both on their way, screens big and small are embracing that idea right now. There's no such thing as too many Godzilla-related trailers at the moment, too, with the first Japanese Godzilla feature in seven years dropping its sneak peek and now Monsterverse series following in its giant footsteps. The latter ties in with 2014's Godzilla, 2019's Godzilla: King of the Monsters and 2021's Godzilla vs Kong, plus 2024's Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, a sequel to the latter. Expect Monarch: Legacy of Monsters to stampede onto Apple TV+ from Friday, November 17. Yes, everything is a pop-culture universe these days. Yes, spreading from cinemas to television is all part of the process (see: Star Wars and Marvel, and also upcoming The Conjuring and Harry Potter shows). In this case, the Monsterverse is going the episodic route via a story set across generations and 50 years, and also with Kurt Russell (Fast and Furious 9) and Wyatt Russell (Under the Banner of Heaven) playing older and younger versions of the same figure. The father-son pair take on the role of army officer Lee Shaw, who is drawn into the series by a couple of siblings attempting to keep up their dad's work after events between Godzilla and the Titans in San Francisco in the aforementioned 2014 film. Monarch: Legacy of Monsters also involves unpacking family links to clandestine outfit Monarch, events back in the 50s and how what Shaw knows threatens the organisation. So, there'll be monsters and rampages, and also secrets, lies and revelations. Giving audiences two Russells in one series is dream casting, as the just-dropped first teaser shows. Also appearing on-screen: Anna Sawai (Pachinko), Kiersey Clemons (The Flash), Ren Watabe (461 Days of Bento), Mari Yamamoto (also Pachinko), Anders Holm (Inventing Anna), Joe Tippett (The Morning Show), Elisa Lasowski (Hill of Vision) and John Goodman (The Righteous Gemstones). Behind the scenes, Chris Black (Severance) and Matt Fraction (Da Vinci's Demons) have co-developed Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, while Matt Shakman (The Consultant, Welcome to Chippendales) helms the opening pair of episodes — and all three are among the series' executive producers. Check out the first trailer for Monarch: Legacy of Monsters below: Monarch: Legacy of Monsters will start streaming via Apple TV+ from Friday, November 17, 2023.
When is a dance film more than just a dance film? When it brings a celebrated real-life performance to the cinema, fills its frames with dream-like visuals, and dives into the indigenous Australian experience. That's the case with Spear, which — its sublime showcase of fancy footwork and smooth moves aside — bears little other resemblance to the bulk of the dance film genre. Saturday Night Fever, Footloose and Step Up, this is not. Indeed, in an effort concerned with origins and evolution, understanding the movie's own leap from dance piece to film is pivotal. Spear blossoms out of a Bangarra Dance Theatre presentation first staged in 2000, and marks the feature filmmaking debut of Stephen Page, the company's artistic head. His close connection with the material is evident from the outset, and not just because his son, Hunter Page-Lochard, plays the lead character and his brother, David Page composed the accompanying music. Prior to this, Page's only credits are on a segment of The Turning and choreography work on Bran Nue Dae and The Sapphires. Nonetheless, his expressive offering demonstrates what all directors hope for: the strong imprint of a distinctive guiding hand. Given that the production relies upon imagery and movement much more than words and narrative, the importance of Page's task cannot be underestimated. In fact, as Spear cycles between rocky seaside cliffs, dusty outback plains and gritty urban locations, the feature's primary aim isn't to tell a story, but to convey a feeling and channel a sense of spirituality. Enter Djali (Page-Lochard), an Aboriginal youth trying to understand his heritage, and the audience's on-screen surrogate. As the film takes him through the past and present experiences of his people, sometimes accompanied by an Old Man (Demala Wunungmurra) or interacting with Suicide Man (Aaron Pedersen), its rhythmic sights and sounds wash over him — and over the watching viewer, too. Think of Spear as a series of exquisite dance routines, each fusing the traditional and the contemporary, and representing a plethora of issues: discrimination, marginalisation, violence, homelessness, abuse, and forced assimilation among them. Think of it as a process of layering, as well. Each individual section proves an intricate, intimate and distinctive creation in its own right, as well as a crucial piece of a bigger thematic and artistic puzzle. If it sounds unique, that's because it is. In fact, with its combination of exceptional physical feats, evocative presentation and somewhat abstract content, Spear is unlike any film most audiences will have seen. It's a stunning achievement, as well as a memorable one. The end result doesn't simply engage the brain but assaults the senses — so much so that it almost feels as though the movie could dance from the screen back into reality at any moment.
Italian filmmaker Nanni Moretti is no stranger to death, or to examining the subject on film. It might be something most of us don't like to think about, however the writer-director understands the shadow mortality can cast, as well as the way that the act of mourning can overtake a person's life. After exploring the impact of losing a child in 2001's Palme d'Or winner The Son's Room, and then writing and starring in 2008's Quiet Chaos, he returns to the topic with Mia Madre. That the film's name means "my mother" in his native tongue is telling. Taking a decidedly meta approach. the film follows a filmmaker in the midst of production while at the same time coping with the hospitalisation of her mother. It's not quite as autobiographical as it sounds: the director is a woman, Margherita (Margherita Buy), while Moretti plays her brother Giovanni, and veteran Italian actress Giulia Lazzarini plays their mother. And yet, in the way that Mia Madre hones in on the stress of simultaneous professional and personal crises, there's no doubting that the tale evolves from experience. As her mother's health begins to decline, Margherita struggles to make her movie – about factory employees fighting for better working conditions – while also using it as a distraction from her troubles. Alas, her freshly arrived American lead (John Turturro) refuses to learn his lines or follow her directions, constantly derailing and delaying production. With her live-in lover in the process of moving out and her teenage daughter struggling at school, Margherita's home life offers little solace either. Depicting many a balancing act, Mia Madre swiftly proves one itself. Moretti keeps searching for the right mix between quiet and anxious, dramatic and comedic, and contemplative and freewheeling. In fact, his film is more convincing in demonstrating how frustrating that can be than it is in finding any harmony between its competing elements. Of course, that's partially the point, with grief clearly painted as a disruptive and destabilising force. And yet, as accurate and authentic as the movie's messiness feels in an emotional sense, it also makes other contrasting factors — such as the patient camerawork and energetic performances — seem slight, a little convenient and sometimes out of place. Indeed, it's always distracting when a specific actor appears as though they're in the wrong film, even when they're one of the best things about it. Turturro lights up the screen and brings a few well-timed comic moments, yet never completely fits in with his surroundings. That's not a criticism of his performance, or of the more restrained but similarly excellent efforts of Buy and Moretti. Instead, it's an acknowledgement that even in thoughtful, intimate accounts of something as complex and challenging as death, mimicking chaos and actually embodying it aren't quite the same thing.
Fall in love with movies Italian style, at the latest glamorous edition of the Lavazza Italian Film Festival. Hosted once again in Palace Cinemas around the country, this year's festival features more than 30 features and docos, plus a breathtaking restoration of one of Italy's all-time classics. The 2014 festival opens with Marina, a light biopic about singer, songwriter and world-famous accordion player Rocco Granata, produced by Luc and Jean-Pierre Dardenne. Other exciting titles include impressionistic Cannes Jury Prize winner The Wonders and Asia Argento's semi-autobiographical new film Incompresa. But the best of the fest will be saved until last. This year's closing night film is none other Marriage Italian Style, beautifully restored in time for its 50th anniversary. Sophia Loren is dazzling as the mistress of a wealthy Italian businessman determined to lock down a marriage proposal. A quintessential comedy about the battle of the sexes, it puts most modern-day rom-coms to shame. The Lavazza Italian Film Festival is on in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in September and October, and thanks to the festival, we have ten double passes to give away (valid at any festival session of your choice) in each city. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email us with your name and address. Sydney: win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.auMelbourne: win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au Brisbane: win.brisbane@concreteplayground.com.au https://youtube.com/watch?v=IeD7rBVAQQo
Move over Hamilton, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Come From Away, Jagged Little Pill the Musical, The Phantom of the Opera and Girl From the North Country — another huge hit musical has just announced an Australian run. This time, it's Broadway and West End smash An American in Paris that's heading our way, with the four-time Tony-winner kicking off its Aussie shows in Brisbane in January 2022. From there, An American in Paris will sing and dance its way to Adelaide, Perth, Melbourne and Sydney, bringing its vibrant adaptation of the 1951 film of the same name to Australian stages. Yes, if you're a fan of classic movies — and classic big-screen musicals starring none other than the inimitable Gene Kelly at that — then that's why the show's name sounds familiar. Story-wise, the musical follows an American soldier in Paris — because its moniker is that straightforward. Set at the end of the Second World War, it charts US GI's Jerry Mulligan's exploits as he falls for a French woman. Well, he is celebrating the end of the combat in the notably romantic city, after all. Bringing the Oscar-winning 70-year-old film to the stage, this version of An American in Paris is directed by acclaimed contemporary ballet choreographer Christopher Wheeldon — and adapted for theatre and choreographed by him, too. The Aussie run is also being staged in collaboration with the Australian Ballet, so expect to see some of their dancers helping to bring the musical to life. George and Ira Gershwin's songs make the leap to the theatre as well, including 'I Got Rhythm', 'S Wonderful', 'But Not For Me' and 'They Can't Take That Away From Me'. Initially, An American in Paris debuted in Paris — where else? — in 2014, before hitting Broadway, Boston and West End. [caption id="attachment_828888" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Johan Persson[/caption] 'AN AMERICAN IN PARIS' AUSTRALIAN TOUR 2022: January 8–30 — QPAC Lyric Theatre, Brisbane From February, dates TBC — Her Majesty's Theatre, Adelaide From February, dates TBC — Crown Theatre, Perth From March, dates TBC — State Theatre, Arts Centre Melbourne, Melbourne From April, dates TBC — Theatre Royal, Sydney An American in Paris will tour Australia from January 8, 2022. For more information or to register for the ticket waitlist, head to the musical's website. Top images: Tristram Kenton.
The only two things I love in this world more than my iPhone are Post-it Notes and nice watches. Doriane Favre has taken these two separately awesome things and created the Post-It Watch. The Post-It Watch is shaped like a watch and can quickly be written on at the drop of a hat, thought or idea, then strapped around your wrist for easy reminding later on. It is a wonderful solution and much more adult alternative to writing notes on your hand - something not everyone can fully grow out of. The Post-It Watch comes in pads of 100 sheets and can be purchased online from the Parisien boutique, PA Design. [via PSFK]
Over the past decade, Sydney Film Festival's opening-night movies have included Goldstone, The New Boy and We Don't Need a Map, all Australian titles from Indigenous directors. It's too early to say what 2024's fest will launch with to mark the cinema celebration's 71st year; however, First Nations filmmaking will firmly be in the spotlight via a brand-new cash prize that joins the event's slate of awards. SFF will now be home to the world's largest cash accolade for Indigenous cinema: the $35,000 First Nations Award. Set to debut at the 2024 festival, which runs from Wednesday, June 5–Sunday, June 16, the prize will be handed out in Sydney but is open to films from around the world — shorts as well — as long as it is featured in Sydney Film Festival's annual First Nations program strand. "The First Nations Award is more than a celebration of unique storytelling; it's a crucial investment in the future of Indigenous cinema. By offering this level of support, we hope to encourage more First Nations filmmakers to share their stories, enriching the film industry with diverse perspectives and voices," said SFF's long-running Festival Director Nashen Moodley. "This award aligns seamlessly with Sydney Film Festival's long-standing commitment to fostering cultural diversity and amplifying Indigenous narratives." "It is entirely fitting that the Sydney Film Festival, which for so long has been a champion of First Nations stories and storytellers from around the world, now offers the largest single cash prize for First Nations film globally," added SFF Chair Darren Dale. "This prize will inspire, motivate and reward established and emerging First Nations filmmakers with the promise that their art is important, is valued and will be seen." The First Nations Award is supported by Australian production company Truant Pictures, and joins SFF's annual gongs alongside the annual $60,000 Sydney Film Prize, the $40,000 Sustainable Future Award, the $20,000 Documentary Australia Award and the range of Dendy Awards for Australian Short Films. If you're a First Nations filmmaker with a movie that you'd love to be considered to screen at this year's SFF, and to go in the running for the new award, you have until Friday, March 1 to submit. Sydney Film Festival 2024 takes place from Wednesday, June 5–Sunday, June 16 at various cinemas and venues around Sydney. For more information, head to the festival's website. Images: Tim Levy / Luke Latty.
December 25 might be the big Christmas dance, but celebrating the season happens all throughout December (let's be honest, it now actually starts on November 1). So, you can spend your time leading up to the merriest day of the year getting jolly in a heap of ways. Lune's December specials are among them. Each month, Lune Croissanterie whips up a new batch of limited-time offerings, giving you something tasty to look forward to when you flip over your calendar. Iced Vovo cruffins, twice-baked finger bun croissants, pumpkin pie cruffins, lasagne pastries, lamington cruffins, its own take on baklava, sprinkles-topped birthday cake croissants: they've all been on the list in 2023, just for a month. Now, with festive season upon us, the Kate Reid co-founded bakery brand is dishing up appropriate treats. Start with a pavlova croissant, then move onto a brandy Christmas pudding. Pavlova and croissants, together at last: that's one of the tastebud-tempting December specials. Lune is taking its twice-baked croissants, then adding layers of coconut frangipane, pavlova and fresh passionfruit — and topping it with whipped cream, summer fruits and shards of meringue. You'll find it on offer everywhere except the Melbourne CBD, and you can order it online from Fitzroy and Armadale in Melbourne, plus South Brisbane and Burnett Lane in Brisbane. Christmas pudding fiends can tuck into a new festive pastry that goes heavy on brandy, making it an adults-only treat. Lune's iteration of the festive staple includes brandy-soaked fruit cake, brandy caramel and brandy pastry cream, then candied orange peel and fresh nutmeg on top. This one is on offer everywhere except the Melbourne CBD outpost again, and for pre-order at Brisbane's two venues. Still keeping things sweet, a choc peppermint twice-baked pain au chocolat is also on the menu. It features chocolate frangipane, mint fondant, dark chocolate crumb, melted chocolate and crushed candy cane, and can be nabbed at all stores (with pre-orders everywhere but the Melbourne CBD). Rounding out the December range are the mango, lime and tajin cruffin, plus the margherita pizza escargot — so, a taste of Mexico and Italy, respectively. The first fills a Lune cruffin with lime gel, mango curd and fresh mango, then dusts tajin sugar on top, as well as diced mango, lime zest and tajin (and can be found in-store at and pre-ordered everywhere except the Melbourne CBD). The second pairs one of Lune escargot's with Napoli sauce, smoked scamorza cheese, fior di latte, pesto, fresh basil and chilli oil, which you can enjoy at all sites and for pre-order everywhere but the Melbourne CBD. Lune's December specials menu runs from Friday, December 1–Sunday, December 31, with different specials on offer at Armadale, Fitzroy and the CBD in Melbourne, and South Brisbane and Burnett Lane in Brisbane. From some stores, you can also order them online. Images: Peter Dillon.
"Will there be kangaroos?" That's Liv's (Jessica Henwick, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery) main question when she's offered a job in the Australian outback with her best friend Hanna (Julia Garner, Ozark). They're Americans backpacking Down Under, they've run out of cash and, yes, they make the stereotypical query about heading to a mining town for a live-in gig at a pub. After the pair make their temporary move, parched landscape as far as the eye can see awaits, plus drinking goon and serving copious amounts of brews to the locale's mostly male population. That's the tale that The Royal Hotel tells — and, if you've seen documentary Hotel Coolgardie, which inspired this thriller, you'll know that Liv and Hanna aren't in for a blissful time. In the just-dropped trailer for The Royal Hotel, weathering the blazing heat is nothing compared to dealing with the bar's men. Among their new acquaintances is a host of of familiar Aussie faces, including Hugo Weaving (Love Me) as the watering hole's owner, plus Ursula Yovich (Irreverent), Toby Wallace (Babyteeth), Daniel Henshall (Mystery Road: Origin) and James Frecheville (The Dry). The storyline, the real-life basis, the cast, the fact that this is the latest film from Australian director Kitty Green: thanks to all of the above, The Royal Hotel should already be high on your must-see list. The trailer only amplifies that anticipation, with the filmmaker in tense and unsettling mode as she explores gender dynamics and Australia's drinking culture. This is the Casting JonBenet helmer's second movie in a row with Garner, her current go-to star. Both turned in a stunner in with The Assistant — another picture about power imbalances, the everyday threats that loom over women and problematic workplaces. Green's second fictional feature and fourth full-length effort overall, The Royal Hotel premiered at the 2023 Telluride Film Festival on the way to making its Aussie debut at SXSW Sydney in October. How do you open the first-ever SXSW Screen Festival Down Under (and outside of Austin)? With this homegrown effort. Next stop after that: launching the 2023 Adelaide Film Festival just days later. The Royal Hotel doesn't yet have a general release date, but expect it in cinemas afterwards. Check out the trailer for The Royal Hotel below: The Royal Hotel will open 2023's SXSW Sydney on Sunday, October 15 and Adelaide Film Festival on Wednesday October 18, but doesn't yet have a release date Down Under otherwise. Images: Neon / See-Saw Films. If you're keen to make the most of Australia's first SXSW, take advantage of our special reader offer. Purchase your SXSW Sydney 2023 Official Badge via Concrete Playground Trips and you'll score a $150 credit to use on your choice of Sydney accommodation. Book now via the website.
Nearly one-third of the artists scheduled to exhibit in the 19th Biennale of Sydney have written an open letter to the board of directors, urging them to "act in the interests of asylum seekers" by withdrawing from "the current sponsorship arrangement with Transfield". Transwho? Detainees who've been dodging bullets and knives on Manus Island know the name all too well. It's an "operations, maintenance and construction services business" that, in the 2013-14 financial year, made millions out its involvement with the Nauru Regional Processing Centre. Since early February, Transfield has taken over welfare responsibilities on both Nauru and Manus from the Salvation Army (because a construction company is just so well-equipped to provide education, recreational facilities and emotional support to traumatised individuals). Though the 28 artists acknowledge that the increasing dependence of public institutions on private funding is complex, they are clear, that "in this particular case", their involvement risks "adding value" and "cultural capital" to the Transfield brand. The letter states, "We appeal you to work alongside us to send a message to Transfield, and in turn the Australian Government and the public: that we will not accept the mandatory detention of asylum seekers, because it is ethically indefensible and in breach of human rights; and that, as a network of artists, arts workers and a leading cultural organisation, we do not want to be associated with these practices." The problem is that Transfield isn't just another name on the sponsorship list. Transfield Holdings actually established the event in 1973, and Transfield Foundation board member Luca Belgiorno Netti is the Biennale's current chairman. While the open letter does not overtly threaten boycott, a separate statement hints at the possibility. "We are taking this very seriously," spokesperson Gabrielle de Vietri said. “Some artists are reconsidering their participation, and others organising different forms of protest from within ... Still other artists have proposed to join with the Biennale team in an effort to develop alternative modes of fundraising." A Boycott the 19th Sydney Biennale Facebook page is gathering support. With the Biennale due to open on March 21, the board members, the 90 participating artists and Sydney's art-loving public have some quick decision-making to do. Here's the full text of their open letter: An open letter to the Board of Directors, Biennale of Sydney 19 February 2014 To the Board of Directors of the Biennale of Sydney, We are a group of artists Gabrielle de Vietri, Bianca Hester, Charlie Sofo, Nathan Gray, Deborah Kelly, Matt Hinkley, Benjamin Armstrong, Libia Castro, Ólafur Ólafsson, Sasha Huber, Sonia Leber, David Chesworth, Daniel McKewen, Angelica Mesiti, Ahmet Ö?üt, Meriç Algün Ringborg, Joseph Griffiths, Sol Archer, Tamas Kaszas, Krisztina Erdei, Nathan Coley, Corin Sworn, Ross Manning, Martin Boyce, Callum Morton, Emily Roysdon, Søren Thilo Funder, Mikhail Karikis all participants in the 19th Biennale of Sydney. We are writing to you about our concerns with the Biennale’s sponsorship arrangement with Transfield.1 We would like to begin with an affirmation and recognition of the Biennale staff, other sponsors and donors, and our fellow artists. We maintain the utmost respect for Juliana Engberg’s artistic vision and acknowledge the support and energy that the Biennale staff have put into the creation of our projects and this exhibition. We acknowledge that this issue places the Biennale team in a difficult situation. However, we want to emphasise that this issue has presented us with an opportunity to become aware of, and to acknowledge, responsibility for our own participation in a chain of connections that links to human suffering; in this case, that is caused by Australia’s policy of mandatory detention. We trust that you understand the implications of Transfield’s recent move to secure new contracts to take over garrison and welfare services in Australia’s offshore immigration detention centres on Manus Island and in Nauru. We have attached for your information, a document that outlines our understanding of the links between the Biennale, Transfield and Australia’s asylum seeker policy. We appeal to you to work alongside us to send a message to Transfield, and in turn the Australian Government and the public: that we will not accept the mandatory detention of asylum seekers, because it is ethically indefensible and in breach of human rights; and that, as a network of artists, arts workers and a leading cultural organisation, we do not want to be associated with these practices. Our current circumstances are complex: public institutions are increasingly reliant on private finance, and less on public funding, and this can create ongoing difficulties. We are aware of these complexities and do not believe that there is one easy answer to the larger situation. However, in this particular case, we regard our role in the Biennale, under the current sponsorship arrangements, as adding value to the Transfield brand. Participation is an active endorsement, providing cultural capital for Transfield. In light of all this, we ask the Board: what will you do? We urge you to act in the interests of asylum seekers. As part of this we request the Biennale withdraw from the current sponsorship arrangements with Transfield and seek to develop new ones. This will set an important precedent for Australian and international arts institutions, compelling them to exercise a greater degree of ethical awareness and transparency regarding their funding sources. We are asking you, respectfully, to respond with urgency. Our interests as artists don’t merely concern our individual moral positions. We are concerned too with the ways cultural institutions deal with urgent social responsibilities. We expect the Biennale to acknowledge the voice of its audience and the artist community that is calling on the institution to act powerfully and immediately for justice by cutting its ties with Transfield. We believe that artists and artworkers can—and should—create an environment that empowers individuals and groups to act on conscience, opening up other pathways to develop more sustainable, and in turn sustaining, forms of cultural production. We want to extend this discussion to a range of people and organisations, in order to bring to light the various forces shaping our current situation, and to work towards imagining other possibilities into being. In our current political circumstances we believe this to be one of the most crucial challenges that we are compelled to engage with, and we invite you into this process of engagement. We look forward to hearing your response and given the urgency of this issue, hope that we can receive it by the end of this week. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Gabrielle de Vietri, Bianca Hester, Charlie Sofo, Nathan Gray, Deborah Kelly, Matt Hinkley, Benjamin Armstrong, Libia Castro, Ólafur Ólafsson, Sasha Huber, Sonia Leber, David Chesworth, Daniel McKewen, Angelica Mesiti, Ahmet Ö?üt, Meriç Algün Ringborg, Joseph Griffiths, Sol Archer, Tamas Kaszas, Krisztina Erdei, Nathan Coley, Corin Sworn, Ross Manning, Martin Boyce, Callum Morton, Emily Roysdon, Søren Thilo Funder, Mikhail Karikis NOTES 1. Please note that in this document we use the name Transfield to refer to three branches of the Transfield brand: Transfield Holdings, Services and Foundation. Please refer to our information sheet for our understanding of how these are linked. Image: Henna-Riikka Halonen, Moderate Manipulations, 2012 (video still).
At this time of year, it's mighty tempting to rid your after-work agenda of anything that involves leaving your blanket fort. We can't blame you — the days are shorter and it's colder than most would like. But rather than disappearing when the sun does, we want you to make the most of these bonus nighttime hours. So we've teamed up with Samsung to celebrate the Galaxy S9 and S9+ (with a Super Low Light camera to capture all your nighttime antics) to bring you a guide to the best things to do around Melbourne after dark. You can see a gig, learn a new skill and eat delicious comfort food. To celebrate the Galaxy S9 and S9+ and our after dark guide, we're throwing an epic winter party, and we want you to come along. From 6.30pm on Thursday, June 28, we'll be taking over Ferdydurke for an intimate after-dark soiree. A local DJ will provide the soundtrack to the evening, as you indulge in a decadent (and picture-perfect) grazing table from Plentiful Catering and flaming cocktails from the Ferdydurke's bar team. Your winter blues will well and truly be banished. There will be Samsung Galaxy S9's positioned around the venue for you to play around with on the night, so get snap-happy and you'll go in the running to win your very own Samsung Galaxy S9, plus a voucher to one of our featured restaurants (because you'll want to take photos of every future meal with your flashy new tech). Also, photographer Cole Bennetts will be on-hand to provide tips and tricks to capturing those winning low light moments. Regardless of whether you nab the new phone, our party will leave you with the tools to up your Insta-game and with a newfound appreciation for getting out and about in winter. To enter, see details below. [competition]673602[/competition]
Start your weekend off right with a little Saturday morning yoga, complete with breathtaking views of the city. QT Melbourne has teamed up with much-loved Los Angeles yoga brand Bender to host a pair of weekend yoga sessions set to deep house music — and held atop its spectacular Russell Street hotel. It's all set to go downward dog from 8am on Saturday March 3, and again at the same time the following week. The classes run for a cool 75 mins and are suitable for all skill levels. The early start probably won't appeal to anyone who's had a big Friday, but is perfect for people hoping to make the most of their precious days off. After class, yogis will be treated to a selection of juices and freshly-cracked coconuts. The QT's signature restaurant, Pascale Bar & Grill, will also be open for breakfast – or you can grab a coffee and a pastry from the hotel's cafe, Cake Shop.
Having enough clean drinking water may not be an issue that plagues you day-to-day. But it is an issue that plagues billions of people around the world and has been at the forefront of news with Cape Town, South Africa, reaching its final 90 days of water. In a scientific breakthrough, Australian scientists have just discovered a way to easily purify water using an ingredient found in vegetable oil — and they tested it using the iconic Sydney Harbour. CSIRO scientists created a small filtration device, a tiny membrane dubbed Graphair, that can quickly purify water in a single step. As it's made from soybean oil, it's also cheap to make. To test the effectiveness of the device, the group of scientists purified water from the Sydney Harbour (which, while known for its beauty, certainly isn't known for its cleanliness). And it worked so well, the resulting water was safe to drink. The scientists published their results overnight in Nature Communications, an open-access journal, and plan to take the product overseas to developing countries next year. Source and image: CSIRO
If you've got a thing for heritage revivals, prepare to swoon over the lineup of winners for this year's Victorian Architecture Awards, which were announced in a digital ceremony on Friday, July 10. Among the 63 award recipients — showcasing the state's best architectural projects across 15 categories — was a bumper crop of heritage building makeovers. Included is one revamp especially familiar to anyone that's wandered down Swanston Street in the past 12 months: Architectus and Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects' revival of the State Library of Victoria. The redevelopment took out the esteemed Melbourne Prize, along with awards in the heritage conservation and public architecture categories. Judges praised the project for being a major benefit to Melburnians, calling it "an exemplar of the enhancement of existing buildings". [caption id="attachment_775611" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] State Library of Victoria redevelopment. Photo: Trevor Mein[/caption] Other public structures that scored prizes at this year's awards include the Regent Theatre by Lovell Chen (for creative adaptation), the Ian Potter Southbank Centre by John Wardle Architects (which received the Marion Mahony Award for Interior Architecture), and Phillip Island's newly-hatched Penguin Parade Visitor Centre, the work of acclaimed firm TERROIR (receiving the Regional Prize). Kerstin Thompson Architects' work on the Broadmeadows Town Hall not only took out the Victorian Architecture Medal, but further acknowledgements in the categories of heritage architecture and public architecture. And the MCG's iconic Great Southern Stand was honoured with the Enduring Architecture Award, given to significant projects over 25 years old. Victorian winners that scooped an architecture or named award will now go up against other Aussie projects, competing in the National Architecture Awards. For further details about the Victorian Architecture Awards — and the full list of this year's 63 winners — head to the organisation's website. Top images: Broadmeadows Town Hall, John Gollings; Penguin Parade Visitor Centre, Peter Bennetts; Monash University Chancellery, Rhiannon Slatter; Ian Potter Southbank Centre, Trevor Mein.
Wearable technology has been around for a few years now, but hasn't really taken off. Google Glass tried to get everyone to stick a computer on their face, while the Apple Watch attempted to move smartphones onto everyone's wrists; however, as cool and suitably futuristic as both are, they're hardly must-have gadgets. Enter Snapchat, their first foray into the hardware realm, and the pair of sunnies everyone's going to want. We'll let you ponder that concept for a few moments, because sunglasses that record 10-second bursts of video sound both amazing and familiar, and not just because there's been a rumour that Snapchat has been working on something like this floating around for a while now. Called Spectacles and revealed by The Wall Street Journal in an interview with Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel, they're basically a cheaper version of Google's eyewear with one specific function; but hey, letting everyone do something they already could in a slightly different way has worked out pretty well for them so far, hasn't it? As well as turning the act of taking photos into a mostly hands-free task (unless you can press buttons with your mind, you're still going to have to lift a finger to the frames to start each clip, sadly), Spectacles boast two major drawcards. Firstly, they look like regular glasses, rather than Robocop-like attire, complete with black, teal and coral styles. And even better, they're going to be affordable, at US$130 a pair. Other features include a 115-degree lens designed to mimic the human field of vision, as well as the ability to capture circular images to approximate our natural perspective. And yes, everything you record with your new toy will then upload to your Snapchat account, after connecting to your phone via wifi. No word as yet regarding an Aussie release date, but a limited number are due out in the US sometime over the next couple of months. Via The Wall Street Journal. Image: Business Insider.
Ian Fleming's James Bond feasted on more than vodka martinis. Photographer Henry Hargreaves, the brains behind the No Seconds photography series (in which he recreated and photographed the last meals of famous death row criminals like Ted Bundy), is back with another series of snapped meals — this time from the literary adventures of 007, dubbed Dying to Eat. While the James Bond films like to focus more on cocktails, explosions, car chases and Daniel Craig walking slowly and triumphantly out of the surf, author Ian Fleming spent a great deal of time articulating the dinners, breakfasts and midnight snacks of Bond. But he didn't do this just to create some form of James Bond cookbook. It was a form of escapism for a postwar audience. "Ian Fleming wrote for the 1950s Englishman, whose everyday experience of the world was coloured by the devastating consequences of war," says Hargreaves. "The ‘50s post-war man could read Fleming’s Bond books and dream not only of adventure and villains in far-off lands, but of an exciting lifestyle of fast cars, beautiful women, finely tailored clothes, and exotic gourmet meals from around the world. Sadly these meals were missing from the cinematic adaptations." Dying to Eat is a collaboration between art director/food stylist Charlotte Omnes and Hargreaves, alongside graphic designer Will Vink, in which one scene from every Fleming title has been recreated detail for detail. Hargreaves' grandfather actually served with Fleming during the war and consulted on some of the tailoring details of the Bond books, so it's a project surprisingly close to home. From the eggs benedict of The Man with the Golden Gun to the spaghetti bolognaise of Thunderball and silver dishes of crab claws in Goldfinger, it's a visual essay into the 'exotic' meals only available at the time to a worldly, travelling human — one who stayed everywhere from a Swiss hotel room to a Miami beach club. But you'll notice there's a few Bond-like elements in the frame; a cufflink, a woman's purse, a ----. Hargreaves describes each meal as "more than just a detail contained within a sentence. It’s a story unto itself." “The trouble always is,” [Bond] explained to Vesper, "not how to get enough caviar, but how to get enough toast with it." Images: Henry Hargreaves.
Gobble up our bluffer's guide to oysters? Then head on down to the Albert Park Hotel this Thursday and put your newfound mollusk mastery to the test. Back by popular demand, the ninth instalment of Melbourne's largest Oyster Frenzy is shaping up to be one for the record books. For $75, diners get a front-row seat to a veritable shellfish smorgasbord, including all-you-can-eat oysters from every corner of Australia. They'll also be serving a selection of other seafood canapes, as well as local wines, beer and cider. Last September's frenzy saw a grand total of 18,760 oysters meet their maker, so naturally the organisers are hoping to smash that total wide open. Be part of history at the classiest buffet in town.
Has anyone had a better year so far than Taika Waititi? Likely not. 2022 hasn't even officially hit its halfway point yet and he's already been everywhere, doing everything, and has more to come. He was the subject of the Archibald's Packing Room Prize-winner, with his likeness now an award-worthy piece of art. He has that little Marvel movie called Thor: Love and Thunder in the works, set to hit cinemas in early July. Oh, and he went and co-starred in one of the best new TV shows of the year so far — and that series, Our Flag Means Death, has just been renewed for a second run. No, Taika's time playing a pirate isn't over yet, in supremely welcome news for everyone who sailed through Our Flag Means Death's glorious first season. His latest team-up with fellow New Zealand comedian Rhys Darby (after also working together on Flight of the Conchords, What We Do in the Shadows, Wellington Paranormal and Hunt for the Wilderpeople), it's a swashbuckling comedy that satirises the buccaneering times of the 18th century. As its first season unfurled, Our Flag Means Death also proved to be a sweet and warmhearted romance, as well as essential viewing. HBO clearly agrees, greenlighting the show's second season for its streaming service HBO Max. Exactly when it'll return has yet to be revealed, but fingers crossed that it'll cruise back into your queue — via Binge and in New Zealand via Neon — sometime in 2023. "We felt the show was special while we were making it, but fans' open-armed embrace of the inhabitants of the Revenge makes heading into a second season all the more sweet," said writer, showrunner and executive producer David Jenkins (People of Earth), who conjured up Our Flag Means Death. Based on its concept and cast alone, his series was always going to cement its spot on streaming must-see lists — and speed into comedy-lovers' hearts — and now it'll make a return voyage. If you haven't hopped aboard already, Our Flag Means Death stars Darby stars as Stede Bonnet, a self-styled 'gentleman pirate', a great approximation of Flight of the Conchords' Murray if he'd existed centuries earlier, and a man determined to bring a bit of kindness and elegancy to the whole swashbuckling game. He's based on an IRL figure, who abandoned his cosy life for a seafaring existence. The show is a loose adaptation of Bonnet's tale, though. As for Waititi, he dons leather, dark hues aplenty, an air of bloodthirsty melancholy and a glorious head of greying hair as Edward Teach — the marauder better known to the world as Blackbeard. Also featuring among the show's impressive lineup of supporting characters: Lucius (Nathan Foad, Bloods), Bonnet's righthand man and official scribe; Buttons (Ewen Bremner, First Cow), a seasoned seafarer and source of advice; Black Pete (Matthew Maher, Marriage Story), who constantly claims to have worked with Blackbeard; the fire-obsessed Wee John Feeny (Kristian Nairn, aka Game of Thrones' Hodor); and the initially secretive Oluwande (Samson Kayo, Truth Seekers) and Jim (Vico Ortiz, The Sex Lives of College Girls). Check out the full trailer for Our Flag Means Death below: Our Flag Means Death will return for a second season, with a release date yet to be announced. Our Flag Means Death's first season is available to in Australia via Binge and in New Zealand via Neon. Read our full review. Images: Aaron Epstein/HBO Max.
Even if you enter Bridge of Spies unaware of its director, it soon becomes obvious that Steven Spielberg is at the helm. Tom Hanks popping up on screen, as he did in Saving Private Ryan, Catch Me If You Can and The Terminal before this, offers one such indication of the man behind the camera, although the clues certainly don’t stop there. The way the story is handled, the heavy-handed score that tells audiences what to feel rather than trusting the storytelling to do so, as well as the almost overbearing sense of righteousness that infuses every scene, all do plenty to give away the Spielberg touch. Under his guidance, the actor many likely wish was their dad lives up to that fantasy as an ordinary, upstanding guy driven by a desire to do what's right. Hanks’ character, the real-life James B. Donovan, is a tax lawyer taken out of his comfort zone, yet always guided by his strong moral compass. He's asked by the government to undertake the unpopular role of representing Rudolf Abel (Mark Rylance), a Soviet agent found on U.S. soil, at his controversial and highly publicised espionage trial. Next, Donovan is tasked with negotiating Abel's return to his homeland in a trade for captured American operatives. And yes, for anyone wondering about the movie's name, at one point the spies really do stand on a bridge – although the film's moniker speaks more to the network that springs up between warring sides. As he journeys to the unsafe streets of post-WW2 Berlin to broker a deal, Donovan's involvement must remain secret and officially unsanctioned — at least as far as the public and the record of the time are concerned. Accordingly, Bridge of Spies never misses the opportunity to bluntly idolise its protagonist, nor stress the strength of his character as he rallies for a person, an approach and good old-fashioned due process when no one around him will share his views. That's not to say that any of these points are unreasonable, or that the praise isn't earned. It's just that Spielberg, initial screenwriter Matt Charman, and script tinkerers Ethan and Joel Coen (yes, the brilliant minds behind Fargo, The Big Lebowski and Inside Llewyn Davis) rarely let the story breathe beyond their laudatory viewpoint. Given that they certainly take their time unraveling all the necessary information and intricacies, it's an approach that proves both distracting and disappointing. Of course, Spielberg crafts a polished film regardless, and one remarkably visually textured from its almost silent opening. Hanks, too, remains a likeable, reliable lead. The real star of the show though, other than the actual events that the movie didn't need to depict in such an emotional fashion, is Tony and Olivier award-winning theatre actor Rylance. If the rest of the feature seems to strive to simplify something complex for the sake of sentiment, he's proves the humanised and genuinely heartfelt opposite. Audiences could be forgiven for wishing that the rest of the film followed his lead, and was more like Spielberg's blistering Munich and less like his sappy War Horse. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-2x3r1m2I4
It's no exaggeration to say you can fill a weekend's dining itinerary without straying from Kyneton's quaint Piper Street. A mere hour from Melbourne's CBD, the country town is just one of many visit-worthy spots nestled within the Macedon Ranges area. Kyneton itself is home to mineral springs, the Campaspe River, beautiful gardens and more. But for foodies, Piper Street is the main drawcard. Brunch and coffee options are many, but there are two standouts. Little Swallow Cafe is the spot for excellent coffee and locals can be seen meeting here for a cup at all times of the day. Annie Smithers Bistrot can be enjoyed for any meal, but the breakfast here is a treat. A more sophisticated dining experience, this is the place if you want brunch to feel a little special. The leafy garden courtyard is delightful on a sunny morning and delivers that great balance between country surrounds and food that would hold its own in the city; there's nothing quite like a fresh country hen's egg from down the road, poached and served with zucchini and corn fritters, citrus, herb and gin cured salmon, garden rocket and hollandaise. If you've had an early breakfast (it would be a wise strategy), you'll have plenty of time in the day for lunch as well. This need not be limited to dining in. If the sun is shining, many young Melburnians will whiz through town on their way to Turpin or Trentham Falls — both popular and spectacular swimming holes that are gaining popularity year on year through whispered tip-offs. You'll see them stop in at the Kyneton Bakehouse or Piper Street Food Store for supplies, and with good reason. The bakery claims to be Victoria's fourth best, while the Food Store is a haven for gourmet picnic fare, fresh fruit and vegetables, snacks, condiments and deli items. If tailgating the hipsters doesn't appeal, there are wineries aplenty in the area for an afternoon tipple with some stunning views. The modest and homely Hanging Rock Winery boasts a view of the Rock and happily pours tastings of their award-winning wines, while both Kyneton Ridge and Gisborne Peak do tasty wood-fired pizzas if you can find the stomach space for it. Back on Piper for dinner (let's hope you’ve managed some kind of non-food-related activity in-between), you're once again spoiled for choice. Mr Carsisi is an award-winning Middle Eastern restaurant with modern flavours and smooth service. Stick to the mezze options (ideal for sharing) and you shan't go wrong. The Royal George Hotel holds a chef hat and offers fine dining in the Wedgewood room (ooh la la) or a more casual experience in the bar and grill. Or, if you fancy something more aromatic, Dhaba — which began as a food truck and now resides in The Mill on Piper Street — is the place for superbly honest, authentic Indian cuisine. It's not often one can actually achieve the best of both worlds, but here is a pocket of Victoria that holds country charm and purity of air with a food scene that would hold up solidly in the very centre of Melbourne. A day trip here will have you planning your swift return.
Le1f, Bec Sandridge and Alex the Astronaut will headline the lineup of artists at this year's Gaytimes music festival. Set to take place over three days and two nights at the Lake Mountain Alpine Resort an hour and a half outside of Melbourne (where Paradise is held), the LGBTIQ-friendly event will feature more than 30 local and international music acts, as well as art shows, film screenings, speed dating and more. As the organisers put it: it's the camping festival "of your big gay dreams". The 18+ festival runs from February 16 to 18. Other standout acts who'll take the stage include Chicago DJ Chrissy, Paul Mac and Johnny Seymour's Stereogamous and Triple J Unearthed's Miss Blanks. In addition to the tunes, the festival will feature an array of additional action, from performance art and life drawing workshops to yoga and a drag race. Perhaps the most exciting thing will be a pop-up wedding chapel where same-sex couples will be able to get hitched (for real — it's legal now!) on the mountain. Shoot hello@gaytimes.com.au an email for more info on that one. The site will boast a cocktail bar, a coffee cart and food trucks, and you can even shell out for glamping if you're feeling extra. In keeping with their inclusive approach, Gaytimes will, as always, enforce a no tolerance policy for anti-social, homophobic, transphobic or racist behaviour. So don't be a jerk, and you should be A-okay.
We know it breaks both the first and second cardinal rules, but we need to talk about Fight Club right now. It’s been confirmed that director David Fincher, his long-term musical consort Trent Reznor and OG author Chuck Palahniuk are collaborating on Fight Club the rock opera, for reals. It’s literally going to be the all-singing, all-dancing crap of the world (in a good way). Culture journalist Jeff Goldsmith tweeted that Palahniuk confirmed the rumours in an interview, and Palahniuk tweeted a second confirmation the next day that has since been deleted. However Palahniuk did retweet Goldsmith’s tweet (isn’t Twitter such a murky swamp of Chinese whispers) so that’s all the confirmation we need. In April, Palahniuk told MTV that the Fight Club rock opera would take its place alongside previous musical legends Tommy and The Wall, and become the defining rock opera for the current generation. Although anti-materialism, anti-authority anarchist Tyler Durden probably wouldn’t approve of a glitzy, glamorous Broadway show, we sure do. And with Nine Inch Nails legend Reznor involved, it’s sure to be pretty spectacular. Reznor has scored a fair few of Fincher's films — Gone Girl, Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and The Social Network — and invariably his involvement turns whatever it touches to gold. No concrete dates have been mentioned by anyone involved in the project, but if you want more Fight Club while you wait, Palahniuk has released a Fight Club 2 comic book that delves into the backstory of Sebastian and Marla, and examines what Tyler Durden represents to us all. In the same MTV interview, Palahniuk says, "Tyler Durden is kind of an internal meme, a parasitical meme that has found a host or created a host in every generation going back for all of human history ... Tyler really brought Marla and Sebastian together, so they would have a child, in a way kind of bred them together, and that this child would ultimately be Tyler’s next vehicle." Unff. We are Jack’s crazy excitement. Via Spin.
To get 2023 started in style, Adelaide scored a brand-new music festival back in January, with the team at Secret Sounds unveiling Heaps Good. The one-day event featured Arctic Monkeys as headliners, and gave the South Australian capital a taste of the summer fest circuit. It clearly went well, because the fest is now tripling its footprint to see out this year and begin 2024. Adelaide Showground will still host the SA stop, this time on Saturday, January 6, 2024 — but Heaps Good will first hit up Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne, then Sandstone Point in Brisbane. That's ace news if you live in either city, or plan to be in Victoria or Queensland over the summer. Sydneysiders, it's an excuse for a trip either north or south, too. The Melbourne leg will kick off Heaps Good's three-city, three-state tour in the fest's second year. Need something to do for New Year's Eve? That's now sorted, because that's when the event is coming to town. Sandstone Point in Brisbane gets the nod to usher in 2024, taking place on Tuesday, January 2. Yes, that's all the reason you need to extend your Christmas and New Year break. "The inaugural Heaps Good was such a great day, and we're thrilled to take it on the road to more music lovers around the country over the coming New Year. Heaps Good is all about keeping it simple... single-day shows in convenient locations with great artists and your best mates," said Heaps Good producer Paul Piticco, announcing the fest's new cities. And the lineup? That hasn't been revealed as yet, so watch this space. As well as Arctic Monkeys, Heaps Good's debut fest also featured Peggy Gou, CHVRCHES, Jamie xx, Ocean Alley, Spacey Jane, PinkPantheress, Young Franco, King Stingray, Peach PRC and Ebony Boadu. HEAPS GOOD 2023–24 DATES: Sunday, December 31, 2023 — Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne Tuesday, January 2, 2024 — Sandstone Point, Brisbane Saturday, January 6, 2024 — Adelaide Showground, Adelaide Heaps Good will hit Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide across December 2023–January 2024, with lineup details and ticket sales to come. We'll update you when more details are announced — head to the festival's website for further information in the interim. Images: Dylan Minchenberg.
The twisted fringes of local and global filmmaking will come shambling through Southbank in September. Celebrating 15 years of taboo-breaking, button-pushing, often stomach churning cinematic madness, The Melbourne Underground Film Festival is back for 2014, serving up questionable movie morsels to the public. The proud antithesis to the more highfalutin MIFF, the genre-centric festival has been the subject of plenty of controversy over the years, from their protest screening of banned film LA Zombie, to the divisive political views of organiser Richard Wolstencroft. Of course outrage and scandal are all part of the festival's appeal — and this year's line-up seems primed and ready to deliver. Of the nine full-length features on the program, intriguing stand-outs include American giallo homage Another, Brisbane-set drama The Suicide Theory, and closing night film Chocolate Strawberry Vanilla, about a mentally unstable ice-cream truck driver. The schedule is bolstered by more than fifty short films from directors all around the world. Check out the full program at the MUFF website.
Revenge is a dish best served sandy in Dune: Part Two. On the desert planet of Arrakis, where golden hills as far as the eye can see are shaped from the most-coveted and -psychedelic substance in author Frank Herbert's estimation, there's no other way. Vengeance is just one course on Paul Atreides' (Timothée Chalamet, Wonka) menu, however. Pop culture's supreme spice boy, heir to the stewardship of his adopted realm, has a prophecy to fulfil whether he likes it or not; propaganda to navigate, especially about him being the messiah; and an Indigenous population, the Fremen, to prove himself to. So mines Denis Villeneuve's soaring sequel to 2021's Dune, which continues exploring the costs and consequences of relentless quests for power — plus the justifications, compromises, tragedies and narratives that are inescapable in such pursuits. The filmmaker crafts his fourth contemplative and breathtaking sci-fi movie in a row, then, after Arrival and Blade Runner 2049 as well. The vast arid expanse that constantly pervades the frames in Dune: Part Two isn't solely a stunning sight. It looks spectacular, as the entire feature does, with Australian cinematographer Greig Fraser (The Creator) back after winning an Oscar for the first Dune; but as Paul, his widowed mother Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson, Silo), and Fremen Stilgar (Javier Bardem, The Little Mermaid) and Chani (Zendaya, Euphoria) traverse it, it helps carve in some of this page-to-screen saga's fundamental ideas. So does the stark monochrome when the film jumps to Giedi Prime, home world to House Harkonnen, House Atreides' enemy, plus Arrakis' ruler both before and after Paul's dad Duke Leto (Oscar Isaac, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse) got the gig in Villeneuve's initial Dune. People here are dwarfed not only by their mammoth surroundings, but by the bigger, broader, non-stop push for supremacy. While there's no shortage of detail in both Part One and Part Two — emotional, thematic and visual alike — there's also no avoiding that battling against being mere pawns in an intergalactic game of chess is another of its characters' complicated fights. When the tales that Herbert started penning almost six decades ago — the first Dune book hit shelves in 1965 — made their 2020s-era cinema debut, it was by splitting the writer's introductory trip to Arrakis in half. As the film's title card made plain, Villeneuve always hoped-slash-planned that a second movie would follow. It was a savvy gamble, and it's still paying off. Even in just the opening recent Dune flick (David Lynch got there first in the 80s), breaking the 896-leaf text in two for cinema allowed the story's intricacies to unfurl unhurried. It also ensured that its figures gained flesh and complexity beyond propelling the plot. Crucial to Villeneuve's take on Dune, and to his work in general, is seeing and feeling the minutiae; Paul's path and inner conflict, and Chani's reaction to it in particular, wouldn't cut as deeply otherwise. Without personal stakes, neither would the overall narrative, with its musing on what it means to seek command and dominance — or perhaps shirk it — as well as the resulting ripple effects. House Atreides' move from the lush, ocean-filled Caladan to Arrakis fuelled Part One. Relocating came via decree, not choice — and the bloodthirsty Harkonnens, led by Baron Vladimir (Stellan Skarsgård, Andor) with his brutish nephew Beast Rabban (Dave Bautista, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3) doing his bidding, were about as happy with the change in planetary control as expected of their usual vicious demeanour. Before the movie was out, management had reverted back by force, leaving Paul and Jessica in hiding after House Atreides was betrayed and decimated. As scripted by its director with the also-returning Jon Spaihts (The Mummy), that's where Dune: Part Two picks up, with many Fremen still wary of aiding the two outlanders. But Stilgar is unwavering in his certainty that the new saviour that's been heralded for generations — the Lisan al Gaib, as incited by the Bene Gesserit, a string-pulling sisterhood sect — is Paul. Although 1998 album You've Come a Long Way Baby doesn't contain Fatboy Slim's overt reference to Dune, aka 'Weapon of Choice' with its "walk without rhythm and it won't attract the worm" lines, that record's moniker does describe Paul's journey throughout Dune: Part Two. Also, while Hans Zimmer (Top Gun: Maverick) is on score duties again, commandingly so, thinking about 'Weapon of Choice' is unavoidable when Villeneuve has added Christopher Walken (Severance) to the cast as Emperor Shaddam IV. So, as the House Corrino head and leader of the known universe believes that the Atreides bloodline has been vanquished — daughter Princess Irulen (Florence Pugh, Oppenheimer) isn't as confident — Paul trains to be one of the Fremen's guerrilla-esque Fedaykin fighters. He conquers riding sandworms like chariots, and also Chani's heart, even as she's unfailing in her contention that a messiah is another form of dictator and promising one is purely a method of subjugation. Wresting back Arrakis from the Harkonnen, partly by sabotaging their spice-mining operations, is one of Paul's aims. Again, revenge over his slain father is another. Dune: Part Two makes its time with the Fremen, both in the desert and in cave cities, so rich and textured and human that its departures elsewhere are jarring. That's by immaculate and meticulous design, of course, with the aforementioned shift from Arrakis to Giedi Prime — where the twisted Feyd-Rautha (Austin Butler, Elvis) is another nephew to the Baron, and even more savage and ruthless, especially in a helluva unsettling yet entrancing gladiatorial scene — proving especially impactful. The two settings are desolate in their own ways, but there's no trace of warmth or hope in the black-and-white realm where the Harkonnens only know callousness. As the Bene Gesserit, via Jessica, her superior Gaius Helen Mohiam (Charlotte Rampling, Benedetta) and the resourceful Lady Margot Fenring (Léa Seydoux, Crimes of the Future), keep trying to bend the galaxy to the matriarchal group's will, grappling with power is a desolate endeavour, too. In a telling that earns its 166-minute length due to its sheer weight, through being so nimble in laying out its story and anchoring more possible chapters (there's another five Herbert novels, and others on top since his death), Paul's is a tale of being haunted by his role, future and its implications. Unsurprisingly for a film where dialogue is not just spoken aloud but also communicated telepathically, there's a compelling interiority to Chalamet's second Dune turn. It's pitch-perfect, and in line with everything that Paul is wrestling with; he's equally excellent in action-hero mode in crisply staged and shot heists and frays, doing the Benjamin Millepied (Carmen)-choreographed sandwalk, giving rousing speeches, being plagued by visions and swooning amid the spice with Zendaya's Chani. In one of her best performances yet, she's the second of the feature's standouts and its emotional centre. Every feeling that's pumping through Chani's veins, from love and dedication to skepticism and disappointment, the audience experiences as well. The third: Butler's ferocious effort, which gets everyone shaking in a far different manner to his Academy Award-nominated stint as the king of rock 'n' roll. Indeed, with portrayals this potent, and everything seen and heard matching — the feature's technical feats are again impeccable and astounding — Dune: Part Two leaves its viewers saying thank you, thank you very much not only to this grand marvel and its predecessor, but to the potential for more spiciness to come.
Macquarie Park will be the site of a huge $2.2 billion residential development — but it's not the high-price high-rise apartment complex that you might have come to expect from Sydney. This new development, which will be partially government funded, will provide a 3000 new homes to Sydneysiders — about 950 of which will provide social housing. A further 128 will be classed as affordable. As part of its Communities Plus project, the NSW Government this week announced the successful tenderers for the Ivanhoe Estate development as the Aspire consortium, which is made up of Mission Australia and developers Frasers Property Australia and Citta Property Group. The consortium will work with the government to develop housing that is affordable and sustainable for those who need it most. "The redevelopment will provide $120 million towards social and community infrastructure and $21 million towards social housing programs within the Ivanhoe estate," said Premier Gladys Berejiklian. "This will see services including tailored and personal plans to connect social housing tenants with education, training and employment." On top of the housing will be a stack of community facilities, including a high school, two childcare centres, an aged care centre, playgrounds, green spaces, gardens and a basketball court. Some commercial interests will be getting a look-in too, with retail shops, a supermarket and cafes all in the plans. Social housing residents will be able to access on-site Mission Australia offices, which will offer social services, including personalised support for tenants and community programs. "Everyone deserves a safe place to call home and everyone who lives in the Ivanhoe community will have the opportunity to fulfil their potential and connect with people in the neighbourhood, as well as having easy access to education, transport, jobs and services in the area," said Mission Australia CEO, Catherine Yeomans. Apart from bringing together people of varied social-economic backgrounds, the development has some pretty weighty sustainability goals. The aim is a six-star Green Star Communities Rating and overall carbon neutrality. To that end, water will be caught and reused, recycled materials will form part of construction, roofs will be green and a photovoltaic system will power a whopping 1.5 megawatts. Ivanhoe Estate — which is located close to Macquarie University and the train station — is part of the government's $22 billion Communities Plus project. Construction is set to start later this year, with the project to be delivered in stages of the next ten to 12 years. It's the first site to be developed; developments in Waterloo, Arncliffe, Telopea and Riverwood are set to follow.
Following a COVID-impacted 2020 ski season, some normalcy is beginning to return to the Snowy Mountains, with Thredbo announcing dates and extensive plans for its winter season. Last year's ski season saw ski resorts across Australia implement strict social distancing rules and limit the usual array of programs and activities usually provided to mountain-goers. Throughout the season, Thredbo opened at 50 percent capacity — with its website crashing as folks tried to get their hands on lift passes — while other resorts such as Hotham were forced to close. For 2021, Thredbo is planning to slide closer towards its usual winter routine, announcing a jam-packed season schedule full of new mountain experiences. The resort's ski season will kick off from Saturday, June 12, subject to snow conditions, and run through until October. On the slopes, a full slate of skiing and snowboarding lessons and programs will return in 2021, and a range of luxurious mountain activities have also been revealed. Those experiences start with sunrise sessions, which will grant you early morning access to watch the sunrise from Australia's highest lifted point, also include breakfast on the mountain and then let you have first ski of the day. Elsewhere, a series of dinners will see you transported to the Kareela Hutte restaurant to enjoy a four-course dinner with wine, complete with GH Mumm champagne. If you're looking for an extravagant Saturday night on the mountain, you can also take a star-lit ride in Australia's only alpine gondola, then tuck into a Bavarian-style feast in Merritts Mountain House. Thredbo's village, which is often the life of the party at the ski resort, will return with a full calendar of events after COVID-19 dampened the atmosphere in 2020. You can expect live entertainment, festivals for kids, and skiing and snowboarding events. Qantas is also starting new flight routes to the Snowy Mountains, to make travelling to the area easier. Flights directly to Cooma, about an hour out of Thredbo, will run from July 1 out of Sydney and Brisbane. The winter season opens for sale on Wednesday, March 31 — for season passes, with day pass, lesson and rental sales staggered from Tuesday, April 6 onwards — and spots are expected to be limited with the resort still responding to the current times. "We anticipate we will be operating under certain COVID-19 restrictions and expect demand to be high," said Thredbo General Manger Stuart Diver. "We encourage guests to plan their visits early, book in advance and be flexible with travel dates to avoid disappointment." Thredbo's winter ski season will return from Saturday, June 12. Find all the information on dates, pricing, experiences and accommodation via the Thredbo website.
