A sudden Nutella shortage has gripped the nation, leaving our pancakes dry and Melbourne is to blame. The supply of industrial-sized tubs used to fuel the Melbourne Nutella industry has dried up, forcing cafes to buy smaller tubs directly from supermarket shelves, leaving no Nutella for the little guys (the rest of Nutella-less Australia). Ferrero Australia has stated they will not be receiving new shipments from until August 7. That's like, a whole week. So this is it. All the years we’ve spent wondering how the end would come and here it is. Doooooooom. Listen Melbourne, we get it (FYI this is coming from a Nutellaless Brisbanite). You love Nutella. You slap that thick, creamy hazelnut spread on everything you can get your grubby little mitts on, from waffles to doughnuts to pizza. We know the second your sculpting classes pay off, you’re going to create a lifelike human form out of Nutella and live happily together for the rest of your life. We really have no problem with this; we wholeheartedly endorse your hazelnut love. But there’s one teeny issue: there’s no Nutella left for the rest of us. Yeah, so maybe we’re being a little dramatic. But for the time being you’ll have to get your Nutella fix from one of the many, many establishments that serve Nutella-themed treats. Desperate Sydneysiders, get your starved bodies down to Brewtown in Newtown for a Nutella cruffin (muffin-croissant, FYI). For Melburnians, try Peko Peko in Fitzroy and grab a Nutella dumpling; and Brisbane-based Nutella freaks can pick up a Nutella pavlova or Nutella lasagne at the Chester Street Bakery. Once you have your sweet hazelnut treat, take it home, lock all the doors and window, and savour every last morsel. Via Good Food. Image: ninacoco.
When a music festival takes place in a winery, it already has two of the three fest essentials taken care of before it even announces its lineup: an ace location and booze. But, that doesn't mean that Grapevine Gathering slouches on talent. The acts hitting its stages around the country are always chosen to impress, and 2023's fests are no different. Leading the charge: Spacey Jane, King Stingray and Vanessa Amorosi, with the latter meaning that 'Absolutely Everybody' will be stuck in your head for weeks afterwards. The Wombats and Hayden James are also on the bill, both doing Australian-exclusive shows at the wine-fuelled festival. Rounding out the list: Cannons, The Rions, Teenage Joans and Bella Amor, plus podcast duo Lucy and Nikki on hosting duties. [caption id="attachment_905845" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sam Hendel[/caption] Grapevine Gathering's 2023 tour will hit Victoria on Saturday, October 7, taking place at Rochford Estate in the Yarra Valley. Naturally, sipping wine is a huge part of the attraction. As always, attendees will have access to a heap of vino given the fest's locations, as well as an array of food options. GRAPEVINE GATHERING 2023 LINEUP: Spacey Jane The Wombats Hayden James King Stingray Vanessa Amorosi Cannons The Rions Teenage Joans Bella Amor Hosted by Lucy and Nikki Top image: Jordan Munns.
If you're of a certain age and went to school in or around Melbourne, you're probably all too familiar with Sovereign Hill — the gold rush-museum-meets-miniature-town that was the excursion spot of choice in the 90s and early 2000s. Well, fast-forward to the current day and the precinct is set to show off a much cooler, foodier side when it hosts the Heritage Harvest Weekend from Saturday, May 25–Sunday, May 26. The food festival will take you on a time-tripping celebration of sustainable cooking practices like fermenting, pickling and curing through a program of events headlined by some legendary Aussie chefs. Free interactive cooking demos will be run by Masterchef's Julie Goodwin and Tim Bone as well as Bake Off's Darren Purchese. A handful of cooking and craft sessions will also be hosted by the legendary Country Women's Association. Food producers and local artisans will set up stalls within the old-timey town where kids can also learn traditional crafts and join a bunch of activities. Visitors who purchase a standard Sovereign Hill ticket will get access to all of the Heritage Festival events, so you can do a spot of shopping, listen to some live music, have a good feed and then go pan for gold at the river. How wholesome?
Mention the name Weird Al Yankovic and a pop parody song likely slips into your head. Maybe you're now humming 'Eat It' to yourself, or 'My Bologna' — or perhaps 'Like a Surgeon', 'Another One Rides the Bus', 'Smells Like Nirvana' and 'Amish Paradise' are echoing in your brain. They're some of the musical-comedy tunes the singer is famous for, but they won't be getting a workout on his just-announced 2023 tour. First, the exciting news: Weird Al is heading to Australia in March, hitting up Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Perth and Brisbane on a five-show whirl around the country. Next, the possibly surprising news: The Unfortunate Return of the Ridiculously Self-Indulgent, Ill-Advised Vanity Tour, as it's called, isn't about playing Yankovic's satires of other well-known songs. Instead, the musician is swapping his usual parodies for his other musical-comedy standouts across his 14-album catalogue. Clearly, he has plenty of tracks to choose from — and they'll all be played with his original band of four decades in an intimate, stripped-down show. Don't go expecting costumes, props or video screens, either. AUSTRALIA, here I come!!! #TheUnfortunateReturnOfTheRidiculouslySelfIndulgentIllAdvisedVanityTour comes to Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Perth and Brisbane in March 2023! https://t.co/o0riivPZ37 — Al Yankovic (@alyankovic) November 27, 2022 This deep cut-focused tour follows Yankovic's successful 2018 and 2022 North American Vanity Tours, which featured sold-out performances at The Kennedy Centre and Carnegie Hall. In Australia, he'll be joined by comedian Emo Philips, his The Vidiot From UHF co-star, at gigs at the Palais Theatre, Norwood Concert Hall, Enmore Theatre, Perth's Astor Theatre and QPAC. "I don't very often get an opportunity to tour outside of North America, so it's a huge thrill for me to come back to Australia and play a bunch of songs that most people would rather not hear." Al said, announcing the tour. His trip Down Under follows the release of comic biopic Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, which isn't currently available in Australia — but Yankovic has thoughts on how to see it. WEIRD AL YANKOVIC'S THE UNFORTUNATE RETURN OF THE RIDICULOUSLY SELF-INDULGENT, ILL-ADVISED VANITY TOUR 2023: Friday, March 10 — Palais Theatre, Melbourne Monday, March 13 — Norwood Concert Hall, Adelaide Wednesday, March 15 — Enmore Theatre, Sydney Saturday, March 18 — Astor Theatre, Perth Monday, March 20 – QPAC, Brisbane Weird Al Yankovic is touring Australia in March 2023. Tickets go on sale at 11am local time on Friday, December 2 — head to the tour website for further details.
Champagne, cognac and caviar. This is what Melburnians can expect from an incredibly opulent new cocktail bar that's headed for the CBD next year named Nick & Nora's. How do we know it will be opulent? Well, the bar is brainchild of the Speakeasy Group — the owners of cocktail classic Eau de Vie, Viking luxe bar Mjolner and whisky-serving Boilermaker House — for one. Secondly, like Mjolner, Nick & Nora's will be a Sydney import — the group opened its first Nick & Nora's in Sydney in October last year. Like its Sydney counterpart, the venue is inspired by Dashiell Hammett's novel The Thin Man and its fictional crime-solving team Nick and Nora Charles. If you're not familiar with the book, expect a roaring 30s vibe befitting a most glamorous party — the 240-person venue will have five distinct spaces, three balconies, art deco finishes and a whopping 400 bottles of Champagne on display. The latter will be housed in a climate-controlled display case and feature rare vintages alongside bubbles by the glass. For cocktails, the manual will be organised by taste — a Speakeasy Group signature — but with venue-themed list names like Femme Fatal, Hollywood Starlet and The Snitch. Think martinis, Champagne cocktails and sours aplenty. [caption id="attachment_691230" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nick & Nora's Sydney, by Jiwon Kim.[/caption] Nick & Nora's will be located in the high-end restaurant precinct within the 80 Collins Street building that's currently under development and set to open in early 2020. It's shaping up to house some big hospitality names, with a highly anticipated new venue from Sepia's Vicki Wild and Martin Benn and a rooftop restaurant and urban farm from Pastuso's Alejandro Saravia already locked in. The giant 80 Collins development is going up on the site of the heritage-listed Le Louvre building, on the corner of Collins and Exhibition Streets. The high-rise, along with a newly refurbished commercial tower on the same block, will boast a futuristic new office tower, a 255-room boutique hotel and a luxury retail offering alongside the hospitality precinct. The Speakeasy Group — led by owners Sven Almenning and Greg Sanderson — is also doing things a little differently this time around. Instead of raising equity for future venues through private investors, the group has started a Birchal crowdfunding campaign for public investors — and over $870,000 has already been invested since it started last month. The campaign will run through April 4 and investments can range from $500–10,000. If you have the cash to splash, all new 'owners' will receive a VIP invite to the Nick & Nora's Melbourne opening night. Nick and Nora's Melbourne will open in early 2020 at 80 Collins Street, Melbourne. Keep an eye on this space for updates. Image: Nick & Nora's Sydney, by Jiwon Kim.
UPDATE, MARCH 25, 2020: Due to cinema closures and other concerns around COVID-19, In the Heights will no longer release on its initially scheduled date of Thursday, June 25, 2020. At present, a new release date has not been announced — we'll update you when one has been revealed. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. Over the past five years, Hamilton has become a cultural phenomenon — and, thanks to its fame and acclaim, so has the hip hop musical's creator Lin-Manuel Miranda. But that's not the only stellar stage show to the multi-talented composer, actor, singer and playwright's name. Before he took on US history (and before he helped bring Bring It On to the theatre, too), Miranda turned life in Manhattan's Washington Heights into four-time Tony-winner In the Heights. While every Hamilton fan dreams of the day that it's turned into a movie, In the Heights is actually making the leap to the big screen first — in 2020, with a stacked cast, with Crazy Rich Asians director Jon M Chu behind the lens, and via a film primarily shot on location in its titular spot. Quiara Alegría Hudes, who wrote the text for the stage version, has also written the feature's screenplay. And Lin-Manuel Miranda is involved, naturally, producing the movie, overseeing the music and popping up on-screen as well. On Broadway from 2008–11, Miranda played the lead role of bodega owner Usnavi de la Vega. In the film, that honour goes to Anthony Ramos — an alumnus of the original production of Hamilton who has also featured in Patti Cake$, A Star Is Born and Godzilla: King of the Monsters. Usnavi works hard, saves everything he earns and strives for a better life. He also sits at the centre of a vibrant community just beyond the 181st Street subway stop, with In the Heights charting the lives, loves and dreams of the Latinx neighbourhood through colourful, energetic and — as seen in the just-dropped trailer — exquisitely choreographed song and dance numbers. Joining Ramos and Miranda (who plays Piragua Guy, the owner of a shaved ice dessert stand) are Corey Hawkins (Straight Outta Compton), singer Leslie Grace, Melissa Barrera (Vida), Dascha Polanco (Orange is the New Black), Marc Anthony and Jimmy Smits — plus original In the Heights stage star Olga Merediz, Rent's Daphne Rubin-Vega and Matilda the Musical's Gregory Diaz IV. Brooklyn Nine-Nine's Stephanie Beatriz also features, after Miranda made an appearance on the hit sitcom earlier this year. Check out the full trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0CL-ZSuCrQ In the Heights was due to open in Australian cinemas on June 25, 2020; however it'll now release on a yet-to-be-revealed date — we'll update you when one is announced.
Middle-earth is about to sprawl across your TV screen — or whichever other screen you use to access your streaming queue. And, after five years of talking about it, Amazon has finally given Lord of the Rings fans what they've been waiting for: a first look at its new JRR Tolkien-inspired fantasy series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. Elves, dwarves, epic cities, leafy landscapes — yes, 2022's new Lord of the Rings streaming series ticks all of those expected boxes so far in its just-dropped first teaser trailer. A young Galadriel (Morfydd Clark, Saint Maud) climbs ice, and a young Elrond (Robert Aramayo, The King's Man) features as well. Also packed into the 61-second clip: elves catching arrows, humans stuck on rafts on stormy seas, cave trolls, raging fires and orc battles. If you're new to The Rings of Power, Amazon first announced the show back in 2017, gave it the official go-ahead in mid-2018 and set a premiere date of Friday, September 2, 2022 back in 2021. In-between, it confirmed that it wouldn't just remake Peter Jackson's movies. Rather, the series will spend time in Middle-earth's Second Age, bringing that era from the LOTR realm to the screen for the very first time. According to show's official synopsis, it'll follow "the heroic legends of the fabled Second Age of Middle-earth's history," with the action set thousands of years before the novels and movies we've all read and watched. The series will also "take viewers back to an era in which great powers were forged, kingdoms rose to glory and fell to ruin, unlikely heroes were tested, hope hung by the finest of threads, and the greatest villain that ever flowed from Tolkien's pen threatened to cover all the world in darkness." If you're a little rusty on your LOTR lore, the Second Age lasted for 3441 years, and saw the initial rise and fall of Sauron, as well as a spate of wars over the coveted rings. Elves feature prominently, and there's plenty to cover, even if Tolkien's works didn't spend that much time on the period — largely outlining the main events in an appendix to the popular trilogy. Naturally, you can expect Sauron to feature in the new show, and to give its main figures some trouble. "Beginning in a time of relative peace, the series follows an ensemble cast of characters, both familiar and new, as they confront the long-feared re-emergence of evil to Middle-earth," the official synopsis continues. "From the darkest depths of the Misty Mountains, to the majestic forests of the elf-capital of Lindon, to the breathtaking island kingdom of Númenor, to the furthest reaches of the map, these kingdoms and characters will carve out legacies that live on long after they are gone," it also advises. In terms of stars, The Rings of Power will feature an unsurprisingly large cast — and some impressive talent behind the scenes. Among the other actors traversing Middle-earth are Ismael Cruz Córdova (The Undoing) as Arondir, Nazanin Boniadi (Bombshell) as Bronwyn, Owain Arthur (A Confession) as Prince Durin IV, Charlie Vickers (Palm Beach) as Halbrand and Sophia Nomvete (The Tempest) as Princess Disa. There's also Tom Budge (Judy & Punch), Joseph Mawle (Game of Thrones), Cynthia Addai-Robinson (The Accountant), Maxim Baldry (Years and Years), Peter Mullan (Westworld), Benjamin Walker (The Underground Railroad) and comedian Lenny Henry. And, the series is being overseen by showrunners and executive producers JD Payne and Patrick McKay, while filmmaker JA Bayona (A Monster Calls, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom) directs the first two episodes. Check out the first teaser trailer for The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power below: The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power will be available to stream via Amazon Prime Video from Friday, September 2, 2022.
When Die Hard first appeared on screens back in 1988, it instantly set the new gold standard against which every action movie would be held. Sparkling dialogue, an intelligent plot and enormously charismatic leads, both as villain and (anti)hero, proved top-shelf action could absolutely exist alongside conventional storytelling elements rather than at their expense. Four sequels and 25 years later, Die Hard remains that gold standard, but sadly its latest manifestation, A Good Day to Die Hard, looks decidedly dull by comparison. Set in Moscow, it sees John McClane (Bruce Willis) team up with his son Jack (Aussie Jai Courtney) to take on a corrupt oligarch and his seemingly endless supply of expendable goons. That fact alone represents both a major and perilous departure from the franchise's initial winning formula. In the original Die Hard, even the minor henchmen were defined characters with names, looks and distinctive personalities. When it comes to A Good Day To Die Hard, the only name I can remember isn't even a name; it's just 'the Dancer' — and that's about as close as we get to knowing any of its characters, both good and bad. On the action front, things do at least begin well, with a tense and heart-thumping terrorist assault to set in motion the remainder of the day's chaos. From that moment on, however, while the action never slows down, it also fails to offer even a passing nod to plausibility. Again, in the original Die Hard, all it took were a few shards of glass to seriously impede its hero and imbue him with a genuine sense of fragile mortality. Here, now in round five, characters leap unprotected from 20-storey buildings and plough through countless panes of glass with little more than dust and one-liners to show for it. All signs point to the future of this franchise resting in the hands of Jai Courtney, with his Jack McClane taking over from John as the man who repeatedly finds himself in the wrong places at the wrong times. That raises the question, though: can it survive without Willis, whose charm and playful bombast cannot be overstated. Even in A Good Day To Die Hard, Willis exudes more charisma in a largely semi-comatose state than most of the cast combined. Courtney definitely looks, acts and sounds like a conventional action hero, and he plays the role well; however, it's John McClane's disarming smirk and New York swagger that will forever underscore much of Die Hard's enduring appeal. Without Willis at the helm, it's hard not to think this latest instalment may indeed be a very good day for the franchise to lay itself to rest and whisper 'yippee-ki-yay' no more.
If there's one consistent complaint amongst both filmgoers and critics these days, it's that movies are far too long. The data, however, does not support the case and, if anything, the opposite may be true. At an average of 2 hours 10 minutes, today's big budget offerings are no longer in length than the movies of the 1960s, and it was only during the 80s and 90s that run-times actually dropped back some (and, even then, only by around ten minutes). Instead, what may be at play is that while film lengths haven't changed, the art of storytelling has, resulting in a succession of threadbare plots no longer capable of filling the space provided. But then comes along a film like The Dark Tower, clocking in at a far more appealing 95 minutes. Given it's also based on the famed eight-book series by Stephen King – and built around a world as richly detailed, expansive and diverse as only a series of that length can create – you'd expect the inverse to be true, in that there'd just be too much story to fit in. As it happens, you'd be wrong. Somehow the creative forces behind this hotly-anticipated film have managed to take a sprawling, steam-punk-western-sci-fi-fantasy-adventure and sap it of almost all semblance of story. It's the cinematic version of being jack of all trades, master of none, jumping so regularly between worlds and times and characters that none has the opportunity to take hold. Just think how the Harry Potter universe – similarly grounded in the tale of an ordinary yet extraordinary young boy thrust into an unseen war in an unknown world – might have collapsed upon itself had it received the same treatment. The young boy in this instance is 11-year-old Jake (Tom Taylor), a troubled, earth-dwelling soul whose constant nightmarish visions turn out to be inklings of a nascent psychic power called 'the shine' (remember, this is a Stephen King story). Jake's abilities make him a critical component to the storied warriors on both sides of a centuries-old conflict waged between the light and the dark. On one side stands Roland Deschain (Idris Elba), a mystical gunslinger with a heavy-handed cowboy aesthetic. Against him stands the dark sorcerer Walter (Matthew McConaughey), whose dapper black ensemble makes him seem less wizard and more court-side seats at a Wizards game. Like Obi-Wan to Luke Skywalker, Roland takes Jake under his wing and begins to teach him both the ways of his psychic abilities and how to wield the ancient and more elegant weapons of a bygone age. Actually, yes…it's really like Star Wars. Together they must confront the forces of evil to protect the all important tower, lest theirs and many other worlds fall into ruin. Performance wise, The Dark Tower relies entirely upon Elba and McConaughey to keep its head above water. Neither are given a great deal of material worthy of their talents, but find enough soul in Roland and playful villainy in Walter to keep audiences engaged. Interestingly, for a story about a young boy immersed in strange and distant worlds, the film's best moments arise when the opposite occurs and Roland finds himself on earth. Regrettably, though, The Dark Tower focuses too much on Jake – an entirely dull and annoying character whose presence induces that familiar dragging feeling despite the film's shorter run time. As a consequence, The Dark Tower represents a sad conclusion to the decade-long attempt to see it made; a bland and lifeless recreation of a world that was anything but. The series may yet have life in it, but it'll take a monumental effort to bring it back from where it currently sits. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjwfqXTebIY
Flight sales have been a big part of 2020, ever since domestic travel started opening back up in Australia (and even with borders closing and opening with frequency). Indeed, when Jetstar offered up a heap of discounted tickets in mid-June, it sold 70,000 seats in just five hours, with Aussies keen to travel when and where they can in this pandemic-afflicted year. The airline has launched several other sales since and, until Saturday, December 19, it's hosting its big Christmas affair. So, get your clickers ready. The Jetstar Christmas sale is already running, with discounted flights on offer until 11.59pm AEDT on Saturday — if it doesn't sell out prior. In the sale, you'll find cheap flights all around the country, starting at $29. That'll get you from Adelaide to the Avalon airport in Melbourne. For $59, a Brisbanite can get to Sydney and for $99, a Sydneysider can get to Cairns, too. Other deals include Brisbane to The Whitsundays for $55, and to Darwin or Uluru for $89; Sydney to the Sunshine Coast for $59, to Hamilton Island for $99 and to Launceston for $49; and Melbourne to the Gold Coast for $69, to Ballina for $97 and to Margaret River for $99. Yes, the list goes on. Tickets are for one-way fares, for trips between January–June 2021, with exact dates varying in each region. So, if you're keen to get away, book some now and start planning. This time, before you get booking, you don't need to do as much work researching the status of interstate borders — because most of the country is now open. At present, only Western Australia has any restrictions in place, with folks from South Australia needing to quarantine for 14 days. Of course, this can change quickly depending on any new COVID-19 cases and clusters, as we've all become accustomed to seeing this year. Jetstar's Christmas sale runs until 11.59pm AEDT on Saturday, December 19, or until sold out.
Messina in a can. Nothing says novelty summer food quite like it. The ever-innovative team at Gelato Messina seem to be taking cues from Andy Warhol this season, launching their International Soup Kitchen exclusively at the Royal Croquet Club pop-up festival opening this Friday, January 16. While Warhol's original cans would send you into crippling debt, Messina's tins are little artworks in their own right that'll only set you back $9 each. Four tasty-sounding gelato sundaes will be on offer from Messina's own festival soup kitchen, adorably encased in a bespoke soup tin. Choose from Black Forest Bisque (chocolate fondant gelato, cherry jam, kirsch cream, kirsch soaked sponge), Faux Pho (Salted coconut sorbet, kaffir lime marshmallow, lychee coconut cream, chilli cashew crunch), Zuppa Duppa (Hazelnut gelato, wild strawberry preserve, pistachio crunch, amaretti biscotti), and American Chow Down (Peanut gelato, oreo custard, cream cheese mousse, pretzel crunch). You'll find the Messina International Soup Kitchen at the Royal Croquet Club, alongside fellow nosh wizards Meatmother, Mr Claws, Miss Chu and DOC. Opening Friday, January 16 and running until Sunday, February 1, the Royal Croquet Club is a pop-up food festival happening on the lower level of Birrarung Marr, Melbourne, along the banks of the Yarra River. Centred around a full-sized croquet pitch, the festival features themed bars, roving entertainment and live music from the likes of The Kite String Tangle, Norman Jay MBE, Miami Horror DJs and Japanese Wallpaper. Find the Royal Croquet Club at Birrarung Marr, Melbourne from January 16 - February 1. For trading hours and entry prices, head to the Royal Croquet Club website.
Sicario begins with an ordinary-looking slice of Arizona's desert-bordered suburbia, roving over rows of homes as far as the eye can see. As the kidnap extraction operation that will soon storm the doors of one particular house — and find much, much more than they bargained for — swiftly reveals, there’s little that’s normal behind the average facade. In a powerful start to his latest feature after Incendies, Prisoners and Enemy, director Denis Villeneuve ensures the chasm between perception and reality is apparent; indeed, it will echo throughout the feature. It's a fitting kernel of thought to plant in the minds of viewers who will witness 121 minutes of procedural tension seemingly concerned with the titular term — cartel slang for hitman in Mexico — in the context of the drug war, but actually delving into the haziness of trying to do the right thing by any means. It certainly bears remembering that Villeneuve doesn’t make films that could be considered easy viewing. As written by actor-turned-screenwriter Taylor Sheridan (Sons of Anarchy), Sicario jumps into the United States' furtive attempts to arrest the impact of the narcotics trade, then creeps through shades of grey, shimmers of complex uncertainty and slivers of necessary compromise. Accordingly, three figures earn the grim film's focus: FBI agent Kate Macer (Emily Blunt), plus government contractors Matt (Josh Brolin) and Alejandro (Benicio Del Toro). After leading the charge in the opening events, the former is asked to volunteer to work with the latter two men to bring a drug lord to justice. Their idea of how to do so, abandoning the rules in favour of operating in the shadows, differs to the by-the-book approach Macer prefers. Comparisons to Zero Dark Thirty prove apt and earned for an effort that treats its bristling violence and brutal set pieces as routine, strands its protagonist with reaching for an end result that can't be achieved by above-board means, and navigates the moral quandaries and harsh realities that spring. The striking, sunlit visuals, lensed by 12-time Oscar nominated cinematographer Roger Deakins (Skyfall) and seething with gritty texture, add to the overwhelming feeling of inevitability and despair Macer is saddled with, with as much said by the framing — often preferring to peer on at conversations from a distance, or capture action via aerial shots — as by the dialogue. Such rich imagery is matched not only by an unrelenting, rattling, bass-heavy score, but also by a trio of performances that simmer on screen. Blunt, continuing a spate of great choices of late that has included Looper and Edge of Tomorrow, finds the right mix of resilience and vulnerability as the woman at the centre of a puzzle she's being precluded from piecing together. Del Toro wears the feature's weariness, vagueness and murkiness in his gaze, while Brolin does the same thing with his sly smile and casual attitude — and becomes the film's standout player in the process. Indeed, Brolin acts as a weathervane for Sicario's end result, offering layers of quiet power that build with every exchange and altercation into an ever-troubling picture of ambiguity and unease. You're never quite comfortable with his character, nor should you be with the feature he's in, as compelling, confronting, stunning and downright exceptional as it is.
Think there's just one Hottest 100 in January? Think again. Indeed, the second important countdown of the month goes rather well with the music poll that just proclaimed Flume's 'Never Be Like You' the nation's best track of 2016. In the GABS Hottest 100 Aussie Craft Beers list, great brews are in the spotlight — and once again, Stone & Wood's Pacific Ale has come out on top. It's the second year that the Byron Bay brewery has been dubbed the country's best yeasty tipple, and their third win overall. With 1600 different beers in the running, winning is no easy feat. Run by GABS — or the annual brew fest also known as the 'Great Australian Beer SpecTAPular', the 'people's choice' poll is decided by booze-lovers around the country, and received its most amount of votes ever in 2016. In massive news for new bevs, 21 brews that first wet lips in the past year were included in the GABS Hottest 100, including the American Pale Ale made by Gold Coast-based, Mick Fanning-co-owned Balter Brewing. And recognising the strength of Australia's indie beer scene, a whopping 80% of drinks hailed from independent brewers. If you're thinking, "less background, more beer", here's what you've been waiting for: the rundown of the best beverages from the past year that just keep tempting tastebuds. Working your way through them isn't just a great way to show your appreciation for locally made brews — consider it research for the 2017 countdown. GABS HOTTEST 100 AUSSIE CRAFT BEERS OF 2016 1. Pacific Ale - Australian Pale Ale - Stone and Wood Brewing Co 2. IIPA - Double IPA - Pirate Life Brewing 3. Hop Hog - American Pale Ale - Feral Brewing Company 4. XPA - American Pale Ale - Balter - NEW 5. IPA - American IPA - Pirate Life Brewing 6. Little Dove - American Pale Ale - Gage Roads Brewing Co - NEW 7. Pale Ale - American Pale Ale - Pirate Life Brewing 8. Crankshaft - American IPA - BentSpoke Brewery 9. Former Tenant - American IPA - Modus Operandi Brewing Co 10. Pale Ale - American Pale Ale - 4 Pines Brewing Co 11. IPA - American IPA - Fixation Brewing Co. 12. War Hog - American IPA - Feral Brewing Company 13. Beechworth Pale Ale - American Pale Ale - Bridge Road Brewers 14. 150 Lashes - Australian Pale Ale - James Squire 15. Pale Ale - American Pale Ale - Little Creatures 16. Newtowner - Australian Pale Ale - Young Henrys Brewing Company 17. Indian Summer Ale - Australian Pale Ale - 4 Pines Brewing Co 18. Kolsch - Kölsch - 4 Pines Brewing Co 19. Barley Griffin - Australian Pale Ale - BentSpoke Brewery 20. Throwback IPA - IPA (Specialty) - Pirate Life Brewing 21. Sonic Prayer - American IPA - Modus Operandi Brewing Co 22. Taco - Specialty Beer - Two Birds Brewing 23. India Red Ale - American IPA - Prancing Pony Brewery 24. Golden Stout Time - Sweet Stout - Big Shed Brewing 25. Korben D. - Double IPA - Akasha Brewing Co 26. Single Fin - British Golden Ale - Gage Roads Brewing Co 27. Three Sheets - Australian Pale Ale - Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel 28. Cloud Catcher - Australian Pale Ale - Stone and Wood Brewing Co 29. Karma Citra - IPA (Specialty) - Feral Brewing Company 30. Atomic - American Pale Ale - Gage Roads Brewing Co 31. Coffee Ramjet 2016 - Wood-Aged Beer - Boatrocker Brewing Co - NEW 32. Tusk – Nov 2016 - IPA (Specialty) - Feral Brewing Company - NEW 33. Nail Red - American Amber Ale - Nail Brewing 34. Ramjet 2016 - Wood-Aged Beer - Boatrocker Brewing Co - NEW 35. Dark - Dark Mild - White Rabbit Brewery 36. Summer Ale - Blonde Ale - Mountain Goat Beer 37. Wild Yak - Australian Pale Ale - Yak Ales - NEW 38. Steam Ale - California Common - Mountain Goat Beer 39. Kosciuszko Pale Ale - Australian Pale Ale - Kosciuszko Brewing Company 40. Grizz - American Amber Ale - 2 Brothers Brewery 41. Small Ale - IPA (Specialty) - Colonial Brewing Company 42. Dog Days - American Wheat - Little Creatures 43. Footscray Ale - American Pale Ale - West City Brewing 44. Spearhead - Australian Pale Ale - Cricketers Arms 45. Vanilla Milk Stout - Sweet Stout - Thirsty Crow 46. Modus Pale - American Pale Ale - Modus Operandi Brewing Co 47. Furphy Refreshing Ale - Kölsch - Little Creatures 48. American Amber Ale - American Amber Ale - 4 Pines Brewing Co 49. Nail VPA - American Pale Ale - Nail Brewing 50. Californicator - American IPA - Big Shed Brewing 51. Freshie Salt & Pepper - Gose - Nomad Brewing Co 52. Mt Tennent Pale Ale - American Pale Ale - Pact Beer Co 53. Fat Yak - American Pale Ale - Yak Ales 54. Kung Foo - Pale Lager - 2 Brothers Brewery 55. KRUSH! - American Pale Ale - KAIJU! Beer - NEW 56. Windjammer - American IPA - Green Beacon Brewing Co 57. Reginald - American IPA - Blackman's Brewery 58. Pale Ale - American Pale Ale - Hawkers Beer 59. Session Ale - Australian Pale Ale - Mismatch Brewing Company 60. Calypso - Pale Ale (American-style) - Odyssey Craft Brewing Co. 61. 8BiT - American IPA - Stockade Brew Co - NEW 62. Hop Thief 8 - American Pale Ale - James Squire - NEW 63. The Chop - American IPA - Hop Nation Brewing Co - NEW 64. Sunset Ale - American Amber Ale - Two Birds Brewing 65. IPA - American IPA - Little Creatures 66. Rogers' Beer - American Amber Ale - Little Creatures 67. Watermelon Warhead - Berliner Weisse - Feral Brewing Company 68. Hop Culture - American IPA - Mornington Peninsula Brewery - NEW 69. Miss Pinky - Soured Fruit Beer - Boatrocker Brewing Co 70. Bright Ale - Blonde Ale - Little Creatures 71. Sly Fox - American Pale Ale - Feral Brewing Company 72. Hop Thief 7 - American Pale Ale - James Squire 73. Praline - Belgian Specialty Ale - La Sirène Brewing 74. Copy Cat - American IPA - Mash Brewing 75. Elsie The Milk Stout - Sweet Stout - Batch Brewing Co 76. Fancy Pants - American Amber Ale - Mountain Goat Beer 77. The Fox - Vienna-style Lager - Rabbit & Spaghetti Brewing Co. 78. Growler - American Brown Ale - 2 Brothers Brewery 79. IPA - American IPA - Hawkers Beer 80. Peanut Brittle Gose - Gose - Bacchus Brewing Co 81. Rare Breed: Pulped Fiction Blood Orange IPA - Double IPA - Mountain Goat Beer - NEW 82. Yenda Pale Ale - Australian Pale Ale - Australian Beer Co 83. Garden Ale - Australian Pale Ale - Stone and Wood Brewing Co 84. Hazelnut Brown - Brown Ale (UK-style) - Bad Shepherd 85. Bling Bling - Double IPA - Bridge Road Brewers 86. Beach Ale - Blonde Ale - Odyssey Craft Brewing Co. - NEW 87. Mornington Pale - American Pale Ale - Mornington Peninsula Brewery 88. Fred - IPA (American-style) - Murray's Craft Brewing Co 89. Imperial IPA - IPA (Specialty) - 4 Pines Brewing Co - NEW 90. F-Yeah - American Pale Ale - Big Shed Brewing 91. Session IPA - American IPA - Modus Operandi Brewing Co - NEW 92. Bling - American IPA - Bridge Road Brewers 93. Project #22: Bert (The Royal Albert Collab) - Australian Pale Ale - Colonial Brewing Company - NEW 94. Sourpuss - Berliner Weisse - Wayward Brewing Company 95. B.F.H. (Barrel Fermented Hog) - American IPA - Feral Brewing Company 96. 28 - American Pale Ale - Burleigh Brewing Company 97. Thanks Captain Obvious - American IPA - BrewCult 98. ALT Brown - American Brown Ale - Balter - NEW 99. The Chancer - Blonde Ale - James Squire 100. Hopsmith - American IPA - Akasha Brewing Co NEW — First brewed in 2016.
Thanks to the pandemic, it's felt like years and years since Australia scored itself a huge new music festival featuring overseas headliners that took its lineup around the country. Thankfully, that big gap is about to come to an end via Summer Camp, the country's newest pride festival — and only touring pride fest, in fact. And yes, the fact that Years & Years will lead the bill really couldn't be more fitting. Years & Years, aka British singer and actor Olly Alexander (It's a Sin), will headline the new fest's stopovers in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth in late February and early March next year, all as part of Summer Camp's four-city tour of the country. The event will also head to Darwin, where the lineup will be led by New Orleans' Big Freedia — who'll play every stop of the tour, in fact. Also on the bill: The Veronicas, Cub Sport and Confidence Man from the local contingent, plus Ladyhawke and Jess B from New Zealand. More acts are set to be announced; however, Kinder, Sycco, The Merindas, Halfqueen, Jawbreakers, Yo Mafia and Art Simone will also be taking to the stage. Summer Camp will tick a lot of firsts: not only is it Australia's first touring pride festival and the first fest in the southern hemisphere to welcome back international headliners, but it'll be the biggest ticketed LGBTQIA+ music festival in the southern hemisphere as well. In addition to live tunes from all of the above across two stages, the festival will feature dance, performance art and art installations, as well as food and beverage offerings. More than 200 artists will be involved all up, including over 150 DJs, drag queens, dancers and performance artists in each city. Given the name, it's clear what kind of vibe that festival founders Kat Dopper (creator of Heaps Gay) and Grant Gillies and David Gillett (creators of Red Mgmt, and former Sydney Mardi Gras marketing and international talent managers) are going for. So, expect a cruisy summer camp-meets-arts and music playground-type atmosphere that's also all about inclusivity and supporting young diverse artists. SUMMER CAMP FESTIVAL 2022 AUSTRALIAN DATES: Saturday, February 26 — Darwin Showgrounds Sunday, February 27 — Centennial Parklands, Sydney Sunday, March 6 — Reunion Park, Melbourne Monday, March 7 — The Ice Cream Factory, Perth SUMMER CAMP FESTIVAL 2022 LINEUP — FIRST ANNOUNCEMENT: Years & Years (Sydney, Melbourne and Perth only) Big Freedia The Veronicas Cub Sport Ladyhawke Confidence Man Jess B Kinder Sycco The Merindas Halfqueen Jawbreakers Yo Mafia Art Simone Summer Camp will tour Australia in February and March 2022. Pre-sale tickets are on sale from 9.40am on Tuesday, November 9, with general public on-sale starting at 10am on Tuesday, November 16. For further details or to nab tickets, head to the festival's website. Top image: Theatrepeople via Wikimedia Commons.
Well, we don't know what kind of high-flying career goals you're reaching for this year, but here's one you might want to pop on your list. Domino's is offering one hard-working food-lover the chance to come on board as its new Chief Garlic Bread Taste Tester. Now there's a gem for the ol' resume, if ever we saw one. While the thought of being paid to scoff hot, buttery, garlic-infused carbs sounds like some sort of fantasy, Domino's ain't joking. The company has posted a real-deal job listing for the role on Linked In and is already taking applications. So what's involved in this dream gig, you ask? Unfortunately, it's just a one-day role, but the lucky employee will spend a tasty 7.5-hour work day at Domino's Brisbane HQ, sampling the company's various garlic breads and other products, scoring a sneak peek at future menu items and offering feedback to the team. Here's one of the garlicky dishes you could be getting paid to eat: https://www.facebook.com/DominosAustralia/photos/a.220268216411/10157998133836412/?type=3&theater You'll earn a tidy $30 an hour for your efforts, too. And return domestic flights will be provided if you live outside of Brisbane, as will one night's accommodation if a same day return flight isn't available. A lunchtime pizza feast is also included, so leave the packed lunch at home. Domino's has thrown down a few key qualifications you'll want to have if you're applying for the job, including "a detailed understanding of the pizza and garlic bread relationship", "a history of reviewing other people's food choices" and "working tastebuds". It's also after someone with at least five years' experience in garlic bread consumption — which is peanuts compared to what most of you seasoned garlic bread fiends would have under your belts. If you're ticking all of Domino's boxes for the gig, you'll probably want to have some degree of carb obsession and a solid grasp of the perfect 'crunch to softness' ratio. Oh, and vampire-identifying folk need not apply. To apply for the Chief Garlic Bread Taste Taster role, you'll need to complete the Domino's survey and apply via a 30-second video or 200-word essay, before Monday, October 7.
If you're the type of traveller who doesn't just plan where you'll be staying and what sights you'll be seeing, but also what you'll be drinking while you're there, then add Australia's latest accommodation option to your dream holiday list. A collaboration between caravan rental site Camplify and The Botanist Gin, Salty the Van is the country's latest gin-themed caravan — after the pair first teamed up to bring some juniper spirits to your getaways in late 2020. Yes, a bottle of gin will be waiting for you when you get there; however, that's not all that this holiday spot on wheels has to offer. Firstly, it has made its base in completely a different location — and different state — so you can add it to your list if a Gold Coast vacation is in your future. Painted in beachy blue and white hues, the vintage Viscount caravan comes with an outdoor table and chairs, and an awning, but it's the lineup from The Botanist that'll make you thirsty. During your stay, you'll be sipping from a complimentary 700-millilitre bottle of The Botanist gin and a four-pack of Fever Tree tonic waters. So, you just need to get mixing, sipping and sitting wherever you decide to park the caravan — which'll need to be within 50 kilometres of Tugun. If this sounds like your kind of getaway, the new Botanist Van is available to book from Friday, April 9 through until the end of June from $100 per night. It sleeps four people, and there's a three-night minimum stay during off-peak times and a five-night minimum in peak and school holiday periods. You will need to get cosy over a weekend to receive the gin pack, though, as it comes with Friday–Sunday bookings. To book The Botanist's new van — with prices from $100 per day, and rentals available within 50 kilometres of Tugun in Queensland until February 30, 2021 — visit the Camplify website.
When a huge global pride festival is heading Down Under for the first time — making its debut in the southern hemisphere, in fact — how do you celebrate? For Sydney WorldPride, there's a dazzling list of options. The LGBTQIA+ fest will hit town from February 17–March 5 with 300-plus events, and it's dropping its full lineup on Wednesday, November 9. It's also setting up a giant rainbow sand sculpture to help kick off the fun. On that very day, to add something else stunning to the program launch — other than the program itself, that is — a giant Sydney WorldPride rainbow sand sculpture will grace the Bondi Pavilion forecourt. The festival team are making a big deal of the occasion because it deserves it, and because it'll also be 100 days until the event itself kicks off, with this sandy rainbow taking up residence just from sunrise to sunset on the Wednesday. Head on down and you won't miss it. Expect it to feature in your social feeds heavily, too. The sculpture will measure 2.4 metres in height and 4.5 metres in width, and is apparently the largest rainbow sculpture of its kind. Spectacular sights and Bondi Beach naturally go hand in hand, of course. The famed Sydney stretch of sand is also known to host extra eye-catching attractions — a statue of Borat and a Stranger Things rift have all graced the spot in the past. Also, Sydneysiders have had plenty of rainbows to enjoy recently, all celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community. Darlinghurst is famously home to a rainbow crossing — and in Surry Hills, the City of Sydney implemented a lengthy path in Prince Alfred Park decked out in the same multicoloured stripes. Also, Coogee also has its own cheerfully hued monument, turning part of the suburb's beachfront into a rainbow walkway. Sydney WorldPride's one-day-only rainbow sand sculpture is the first in a whole heap of rainbow art and installations coming to the Harbour City, and Greater Sydney as well, courtesy of around 45 free public artworks spanning everywhere from the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney to the Scenic Skyway in Katoomba. Before the full lineup is announced, the fest has already unveiled big-name events like the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade to Oxford Street, Kylie Minogue headlining the opening concert, plus MUNA and G Flip doing the same at the closing gig. Find the Sydney WorldPride at the Bondi Pavilion forecourt from sunrise to sunset on Wednesday, November 9. Sydney WorldPride will run from February 17–March 5, 2023. For more information, head to the event's website. Images: Destination NSW. Thinking about Sydney WorldPride's big opening gig, Live and Proud: Sydney WorldPride Opening Concert, too? General admission tickets have sold out, with only Sydney WorldPride's affordability option left — but you can still head along thanks to Concrete Playground Trips. The Sydney WorldPride package includes tickets to the Domain Dance Party and Live and Proud: Opening Concert, plus three nights at the PARKROYAL Darling Harbour Sydney.
Winter might still be months away, and the final series of Game of Thrones too, but there is an event coming to Melbourne that will tide fans over — at least temporarily. Call your banners and get ready for a medieval-style banquet, all in the vein of GoT. Prepare for a meal that not only replicates the fascinating and often terrifying world of GoT that so many have come to depend on for meaning in life, but will include a share-style three-course feast, a selection of wine, bubbles and beer, and some murderous entertainment. While many details of the event are still shrouded in mystery (much like the eventual outcome of the series), two sittings will take place on Saturday, March 23: for lunch from 12–3pm, and for dinner from 7–10pm. The meal's location is yet to be revealed, but the specific theme is no secret. Taking its cues from a particularly notorious episode of HBO's hit series, this immersive banquet will be styled after the Red Wedding. Yes, you can assume there'll be some recreations of scenes from George R. R. Martin's saga — although here's hoping there's no regicide at this one. If, like Jon Snow, you know nothing, then you're in for an entertaining feast. Costumes are welcome, but no pretend (or real) weaponry. As for tickets, they'll cost you a few gold dragons — or $232.09 per person. The Red Wedding banquet will happen in Melbourne on Saturday, March 23, with tickets on sale now.
When Bran Nue Dae started singing and dancing its way across Australia back in 1990, the production made history, becoming the world's first Aboriginal stage musical. In the years since, it has won awards, inspired a making-of documentary and been adapted into a film of the same name. Now, the show is returning to the country's stages for its 30th anniversary. In January 2020, a new production will open in Sydney, followed by seasons in Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide. While exact dates haven't been announced, the revival is being spearheaded by Australia's premier opera companies under the banner of Opera Conference — with Opera Australia, Opera Queensland, State Opera South Australia and the West Australian Opera all collaborating on the national tour. If you need a refresher on the story, Bran Nue Dae heads back to 60s-era Western Australia, with teenager Willie hitchhiking his way from his mission school back to Broome — all to reunite with the girl he loves. As written by Jimmy Chi and his band Knuckles, it also features two hippies, a wily Uncle and a German priest. While Chi sadly passed away in 2017, Knuckles will once again direct the musical component of the show. Original production director Andrew Ross is also returning, but just who he'll be gracing his stage hasn't been determined. Bran Nue Dae will feature a 15-performer cast, all except one of whom will be Indigenous, with auditions set to be held in Broome, Perth, Sydney and Melbourne. Check out the trailer for Rachel Perkins-helmed, Rocky McKenzie, Jessica Mauboy, Dan Sultan, Deborah Mailman and Ernie Dingo-starring 2009 movie version below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtLbLBi5Jyk Bran Nue Dae will play in Sydney from January 2020, then tour to Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide, with dates yet to be revealed. For more information and to join the ticket waitlist, visit the production's website. Image: Bran Nue Dae, the film adaptation.
These days you can get mostly anything delivered. You can get someone to pick up a meal from your fave restaurant, get a bottle of wine delivered on a scooter, order an emergency burrito stat and, hell, Melbourne's even getting its own bacon delivery service. But you know what's been missing from this delicious, convenient equation? Ice cream. Specifically, Gelato Messina. Well, have we got news for you. In the latest breakthrough for yummy things you don't have to leave your house for, Messina is now delivering tubs of their glorified gelato straight to your door through premium restaurant delivery service Suppertime. Yep, this summer you won't even have to leave the house (or line up in a hectic queue, for that matter) to get that crazy-good icy sweet stuff in your belly. Apparently it's been a long time coming. "We've always wanted to offer delivery to our customers (especially those lazy ones who won’t get off the couch!), but haven’t been set up for it in the past or had the right partner," says Messina co-founder Declan Lee. "We’ve known the Suppertime guys for a while and are excited to put our precious product in their hands." The delivery service will be available in both Melbourne and Sydney from today. Deliveries will be sent out from the Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Bondi and The Star stores in Sydney, and its three Melbourne locations, Fitzroy, Richmond and Windsor. So if you live in those areas, your eating ice cream in bed dreams are about to come true. Just head to Suppertime, plug in your postcode and see if they'll deliver to your address. This is great news all-round because, if you've ever been stuck in the swarm that is a mid-summer Messina queue, you'll know that ordering your one-litre of salted caramel and white chocolate online is a wise decision. Gelato Messina will start delivering in selected areas in Melbourne and Sydney from today. To order your ice cream, go to suppertime.com.au
There's nothing like summer in the city — warm days kicking back in the sun and balmy nights spent in the ocean air. From picnics and festivals to cinemas under the stars, there is lots to do al fresco. We've teamed up with White Claw Hard Seltzer to put this guide together to help you stay refreshed and make the most of the outdoors during the warmest months of the year. Here are five ways to take advantage of Melbourne's stunning openair spaces this sizzling season. All venue trading hours and events are subject to change based on COVID-19 developments. Check with the venue for the latest details, and stay up to date with current COVID-19 restrictions by visiting DHHS. [caption id="attachment_791774" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Exchange Beach Club[/caption] SWING BY A BAR AFTER THE BEACH Despite Melbourne not being especially known for its beach offering, the city is peppered with beachside bars and waterfront pubs that offer tranquil views and vibes. And there's nothing quite like a drink in the salty air for an after-work knock-off or a way to relax on the weekend. All three of these waterside spots stock White Claw, too, so you know you're in for a good time. The Exchange Beach Club, Port Melbourne Located on the shores of Port Melbourne, this pop-up kitchen is where to head to enjoy seafood snacks — we're talking oysters, lobster and prawn rolls, skin-on fries and grilled squid salad — while soaking in the rays from a daybed or cabana. The best part? The Exchange Beach Club is pup-friendly and there's an entire menu dedicated to treats for your furry friend, including doughnuts. Pontoon, St Kilda This chic establishment offers sweeping views of the beach with an a la carte style menu. If you feel like going a little bit fancy with handmade pasta and woodfired fish in the salty breeze, settle right in here. Interested? Mark February 13 in your calendar, when Pontoon will be hosting an epic shindig with White Claw from 5pm with local musicians Close Counters on the decks. Hopscotch, Southbank For more urban pub vibes, head to Hopscotch in Southbank. Here, you can expect eats and beats overlooking the Yarra. The brewpub serves street food-style dishes, such as tuna or eggplant tacos, vodka-cured king salmon and corn chip cheese croquettes. There are also burgers if you're extra peckish. Pay a visit on a Sunday arvo when Hopscotch hosts live musicians to soundtrack your end-of-the-weekend hangs. [caption id="attachment_833806" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Arbory Afloat, Parker Blain[/caption] TAKE YOUR MEAL AL FRESCO Melbourne is ripe with places to eat and drink outdoors. Grab your mates and head to a primo al fresco table to kick back and revel in the fresh open air buzzing with city dwellers out and about. Arbory Afloat, CBD Take to Melbourne's renowned floating bar, Arbory Afloat, to enjoy an outdoor meal in the cocktail bar stationed on the Yarra. You can find the temporary bar and restaurant located in front of its sister venue, Arbory Bar & Eatery, where you'll be spoiled with a contemporary Mediterranean-inspired menu. Ciao Cielo, Port Melbourne Feeling like an Italian feed? Head to Ciao Cielo in Port Melbourne, a contemporary restaurant slinging oysters, house-made pasta, woodfired pizza and artisanal gelato. Here, you can enjoy a meal in the European-style beer garden, inspired by casual beachside dining on the Italian Riviera coastline. Welcome to Thornbury, Thornbury Another al fresco setting not to miss is Welcome to Thornbury's expansive outdoor setting featuring a steady rotation of food trucks. The sprawling, vibrant pub and beer garden feeds the hungry souls of the north with the likes of Mr Burger, Sparrow's Philly Cheese Steaks and Woking Amazing. [caption id="attachment_821536" align="alignnone" width="1920"] NGV Friday Nights, Eugene Hyland[/caption] HAVE A BOOGIE AT AN OUTDOOR GIG It almost seems too good to be true, but yes, they're back. After a pretty grim past two years, the events season is upon us again, and it's time to make up for all those lost moments. Check out our recommendations for where to head for the outdoor party season. Live at the Bowl Kick off your year at Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Running from January 5 to April 25, the Live at the Bowl series has a steady lineup of dance, music and circus events to enjoy, including The Jungle Giants, The Teskey Brothers with Orchestra Victoria and Piknic Électronik. Boiler Room x Sugar Mountain Festival This month also features Williamstown's supersized festival on Saturday, January 22 at Seaworks Maritime Precinct. A famed 360-degree stage will host a range of stellar homegrown and international talent — think Aussie DJ HAAi, Lauren Hansom and Kelly Lee Owens. For the Love For the Love is returning on Saturday, March 5 at St Kilda's Catani Gardens. Punters will enjoy an all-Aussie lineup featuring the likes of Dom Dolla, Crooked Colours and Mallrat. When you need a break from the revelry, you can kick back in one of the VIP lounges, presented by Nana Judy. NGV Friday Nights The much-loved NGV Friday Nights are back to celebrate the Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto and Bark Ladies: Eleven Artists from Yirrkala exhibitions. Running all the way till late April, the after-hours weekly event boasts a lineup of Melbourne DJs playing disco, pop, lounge and house sets in the NGV Garden, plus pop-up bars and giveaways. ROLL OUT YOUR PICNIC BLANKET After multiple lockdowns where picnics were our only social escape, Melburnians are well accustomed to throwing an outing in the park. We've perfected the cheese platter and know just what crackers go with what dips. And with the city's abundant offering of green-filled outdoor spaces, there's no reason to stop now. Edinburgh Gardens, Fitzroy North Edinburgh Gardens, the city's largest park at 24 hectares, is always a good time. As you snack and sip, you can people (and pup) watch to your heart's content — there's always someone kicking a footy around, plus skateboarders showing off and plenty of off-leash space for your four-legged friends. Fitzroy Gardens, East Melbourne East Melbourne's Fitzroy Gardens also provides a stunning location to picnic with garden structures, floral displayers and sprawling lawns lined with elm trees. As with all City of Melbourne parks, you're allowed to enjoy a tipple here. Point Ormond Reserve, Elwood If you're south of the Yarra, Point Ormond Reserve is the perfect spot to whip out the picnic rug. It's right near Elwood Beach with a spectacular lookout over the ocean if you want a cheeky snap for the 'gram. CATCH A FLICK UNDER THE STARS Take advantage of balmy summer nights by grabbing a picnic rug and settling in for a movie under the stars at an openair cinema. Moonlight Cinema The ever-popular Moonlight Cinema has returned to Melbourne's Royal Botanic Garden with a stellar lineup of flicks accompanied by available bites from food trucks. It also offers BYO movie snacks and drinks, so pick up some cans of White Claw to take along. Cameo Cinemas Cameo Cinemas in Belgrave is where movie lovers can enjoy big releases and retro flicks from deck chairs and bean bags with choc-tops and freshly popped popcorn. You can't take drinks and snacks with you to this one but you can bring along your pup, which is a win in our books. Lido on the Roof Atop of Glenferrie Road picture house, this Hawthorn rooftop cinema is showcasing a selection of new releases in the fresh air, including the newest Bond on the block No Time to Die, the Princess Diana biopic Spencer and cult classic 10 Things I Hate About You. And, yes, popcorn is served here, too. For more information on White Claw, head to the website. Top image: For the Love
What brings all these boys to The Yard? No milkshakes, that's for sure. These 20 talented teens from Western Sydney have paired up with acclaimed choreographer Shaun Parker to create a compelling and adventurous dance work. Taking their experiences with race, gender, diversity and street culture as starting points, the performers express their take on contemporary culture while providing audiences with a wildly entertaining show. It's even described as a modern Lord of the Flies, which suggests its examination of bullying won't go easy. Apart from being thematically important, the scope of talent is phenomenal. From urban dance, acrobatics and music to soccer, basketball and martial arts, the teenagers have been finely honing their crafts under the expert guide of one of Australia's most celebrated and fun choreographers. Adding an extra dimension of awesome is an original electro score by Nick Wales, best known for his arrangements on Sarah Blasko’s I Awake.
Pubs, restaurants and cafes around the country have been forced to close, meaning the loss of many hospitality jobs — and it's all happened very, very quickly. According to website I Lost My Hospo Shift, at last count, 2585 Aussie hospo workers had lost their jobs and 13,195 shifts had been cut, which equates to over $2 million in lost wages this week alone. To help those impacted by the sudden changes — and those without access to Job Keeper, such as those on temporary worker visas — a bunch of top Aussie chefs, including Matt Moran (Aria, Chiswick, Barangaroo House), Luke Mangan (Luke's Kitchen, Glass Brasserie) and Neil Perry (Rockpool Bar & Grill, Rosetta, Spice Temple), are getting behind a new financial relief initiative: Help Out Hospo. Started by Sydney group Momento Hospitality, the 'by hospo, for hospo' program works on a donation basis, providing you with access to a bunch of how-to videos featuring culinary legends, so, you can take your cooking and cocktail game to the next level while you're stuck at home. In turn, your donation will go directly towards supporting bartenders, chefs and waitstaff in need. It's a win-win. Donations start from $10 per video course — a pretty small price to pay when you're learning how to master a roast porchetta, barbecue pulled pork, stir a mean negroni or dry martini, and whip up a big, comforting bowl of pasta that even nonna would approve. Taught by some A-class chef and bartenders, no less. So far, the initiative has raised over $35,000. While it was started by Momento, any venue can sign up, post a video and receive financial support, too. So if you're in the industry and would like to get involved, you can make an enquiry via support@helpouthospo.com.au. To check out the courses on Help Out Hospo and donate, head helpouthospo.com.au.
After another year chock full of closures and lockdowns, Melbourne's summer gig calendar is filling up joyfully fast. And here's another beauty to add to your hit-list: the return of Arts Centre Melbourne's concert series Live at the Bowl. Back for its second edition from Wednesday, January 5–Monday, April 25 after debuting in 2021, the event will see a diverse lineup of local and international artists descend upon the Sidney Myer Music Bowl for a jam-packed program of performances. It's set to deliver good stuff for punters of all ages, covering everything from live music and dance, to circus and comedy. Firing up the iconic openair stage with a solid dose of live sounds will be big-name international acts including London Grammar, Peggy Gou, Kings of Leon and Thomas Schumacher, along with local stars like Flight Facilities, Lime Cordiale and The Jungle Giants. Electronic fans can get their fix with concerts such as Piknic Électronik and Synthony, and the MSO's famed free gigs will also be making their return. Elsewhere in the program, Soju Gang and Footscray Community Arts will team up to present a showcase of exciting talent in SorBaes: Double Dip, Songlines hosts its annual celebration of the survival of First Nations people for Share the Spirit and a special all-ages booze-free gig will serve up sounds from the next generation of local artists. Freestyle dance battles and the family-friendly Shaun the Sheep circus show are also in the mix, with more to be announced soon. [caption id="attachment_835006" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Indigenous grazing box by Jason Lau[/caption] Most of the events will be operating at the full capacity of 12,000 guests, with punters invited to pack a picnic rug to lounge on the rolling lawn or venture down in front of the stage for a boogie. Yep — dancing is allowed once again, folks. That said, in keeping with government requirements, you'll need to show proof of vaccination or a medical exemption to head along to any of the events. Meanwhile, the bar will be slinging a menu of wine, beer, spirits, seltzers and cocktails, alongside alcohol-free options from the likes of Lyres and Sobah. A rotation of food trucks will be on hand for when you've worked up an appetite dancing, plus select shows will also offer a couple of curated hampers — a cured meat selection from Andrews Choice and an Indigenous grazing box courtesy of Pawa Catering. Live at the Bowl returns to the Sidney Myer Music Bowl from Wednesday, January 5–Monday, April 25. To check out the full program of events and nab tickets, head to the Arts Centre Melbourne website. Top image: Ian Laidlaw.
You wouldn’t think that the almost-impenetrable writing of Gertrude Stein would lend itself to the spirit-fingered, glittery world of musical theatre. But somehow, Tony-award winning composer Stephen Flaherty has wrangled Stein’s writing into the lyrics of an ambitious chamber musical, Loving Repeating. This may be an impressive feat from Flaherty but he’s perhaps best known to tragic 90s kids for his work with Lynn Ahrens on the not-sure-if-Disney-or-not animated classic, Anastasia. Loving Repeating is also the first offering from fledgling Melbourne theatre outfit Vic Theatre Company, a fledgling Melbourne theatre outfit who have an unashamed and admirable commitment to providing actors with sustainable work. For the company’s first show it features a stellar cast, including Australian TV and stage legend Deidre Rubenstein and Melbourne cabaret star Gillian Cosgriff.
From the youthful rough and tumble of 1973's Mean Streets, to the bona fide masterpiece that is 1990's Goodfellas, to the Boston-set crime machinations of 2006's The Departed, Martin Scorsese's filmography is filled with gangster movies. Throw in 1996's Casino as well, and the acclaimed director has basically become synonymous with the genre. As a result, it should come as no surprise that his latest film once again steps into the mobster fold — or, given Scorsese's penchant for working with the same actors over and over again, that it tasks a heap of familiar faces with getting down and dirty in America's criminal underworld. In the pipeline for years (since back before 2013's The Wolf of Wall Street, in fact), The Irishman corrals Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci and Harvey Keitel into quite the true tale — of organised crime in the US post-World War II, as experienced by union official and hitman Frank Sheeran. De Niro plays the main role, while Pacino plays notorious union boss Jimmy Hoffa, with the movie particularly interested in the ongoing mystery that is the latter's disappearance. If that's not exciting enough, there's also the fact that Pesci — who won an Oscar for Goodfellas — makes his first on-screen appearance in almost a decade. The rest of the cast features plenty of big names, too, including Ray Romano, Bobby Cannavale, Anna Paquin, Jack Huston and Jesse Plemons. And, because The Irishman's story spans decades, there's also the movie's use of 'de-ageing' special effects, with De Niro and Pacino playing their characters in both their younger and older versions. With the film releasing via Netflix sometime this spring, the fact that a filmmaker of Scorsese's calibre is making a huge, star-studded, potentially Oscar-worthy movie for the streaming platform is also notable, as well as a sign of the times. For those keen to see the great director's first flick since 2016's Silence on a big screen, watch this space (and probably cross your fingers, too). The Irishman will premiere at this year's New York Film Festival in September, and receive a limited theatrical release in the US; however, whether Netflix will pop it into cinemas Down Under has yet to be revealed. Check out The Irishman's first trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3hh68LpkWQ&feature=youtu.be The Irishman will hit Netflix sometime this spring — we'll update you with a release date when it's announced.
Looking for something scary to do this Halloween? What about spending a night in the slammer? As the sun begins to set on the evening of Wednesday October 31, the Old Melbourne Gaol will throw open its iron gates and welcome you into its haunted halls. Once home to some of Australia's most notorious criminals, the historic prison was the scene of more than 100 hangings – including that of Ned Kelly himself. So it's hardly surprising that there have been plenty of reported ghost sightings there over the years. On the night, roaming Ghost Tour guides will regale you with spooky stories, while you'll also be able to purchase a variety of Halloween treats. The truly brave may also like to try an after-dark tour of the Watch House, a spooky walk through the original cell block once inhabited by the likes of Squizzy Taylor and Chopper Read. Halloween at the Old Melbourne Gaol will run from 5.30–11pm.
UPDATE, October 12, 2020: The Shape of Water is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies, Amazon Video and iTunes. A secret lies inside every fairytale and monster fable, whispering to those who dare to enter. It's an obvious one, though it's not always fully appreciated. As we wade through narratives about dark forces and strange, enchanting creatures, it's not just their fantastical or fright-inducing aspects that enthrall us; it's also the fact that they beat with a warm human heart. Like Mary Shelley, Bram Stoker and countless other storytellers before him, filmmaker Guillermo del Toro knows this — and he's eager to prove it every chance he gets. Since taking on the undead in his quietly unnerving debut Cronos more than two decades ago, the Mexican writer-director has approached his gothic tales with empathy and curiosity. His films might be filled with bugs, ghosts, vampires, beasts and kaiju, but at their core they ponder what it means to be alive. Accordingly, when Pan's Labyrinth follows a young girl as she plunges into a mysterious garden underworld, del Toro charts the relatable need to explore, connect and fight back in trying circumstances. Likewise, when The Shape of Water brings together a mute woman and a man-like amphibian against the backdrop of Cold War-era USA, he spins a story about the power of love and the resilience of outsiders searching for a place to belong. As often seen in the director's work, the enemy here isn't the monster, but rather the idea of judging something just because it's different. A moving horror-romance that splashes its devotion across every gorgeous teal and butterscotch-hued frame, The Shape of Water swims into the realm of Elisa Esposito (Sally Hawkins). When she's not working nights cleaning at a government facility with her chattering colleague Zelda (Octavia Spencer), she finds company with her lonely artist neighbour Giles (Richard Jenkins) and comfort in her daily routine. But things change when security operative Richard Strickland (Michael Shannon) marches into her life, along with the water-dwelling being (Doug Jones) he's brought back from the Amazon. While everyone else is fearful, cruel or primarily interested for scientific reasons (such as Dr. Robert Hoffstetler, played by Michael Stuhlbarg), Elisa finds a kindred soul in the captured creature. The idea of outcasts finding solace in each other's arms is hardly new, but while del Toro's movie seems to dive into busy waters, he's really wading through a stream all of his own. In the crowded field of monster flicks, The Shape of Water cherishes and celebrates its big-hearted heroine and her aquatic companion with love and care, ensuring every emotion they express also washes over the audience. Equally vivid and violent as it jumps between matters of the heart and moments of espionage, the film entrances with its sweet, soulful, delicate approach while never shying away from weighty themes of persecution or oppression (and at the same time, it remains remarkably light on its feet). In short, it's a whirlpool of intensely felt, vibrantly realised wonder — one that's both frothy on the surface, and dark and deep underneath. A sea of perfectly assembled elements, The Shape of Water truly feels like a film that no one else could have made. Working from a script co-written with Vanessa Taylor (Divergent), del Toro is operating at the top of his game, and his fingerprints can be seen in every exquisitely detailed image. With its stylistic odes to both creature features and the Golden Age of Hollywood, succumbing to the movie's seductive visual charms is easy. Falling for the sensitive way in which it handles its underwater lovers is as well. Assisting in that department, Hawkins and Jones couldn't be better, fashioning their performances out of glances, movements and the things that words just can't say. Often they're floating, either literally or emotionally. Thanks to the story's depths of affection and acceptance, so is the audience. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQH3jqetJoY
A new glamping hideaway on the shores of New Zealand's Lake Hawea will let visitors cosy up in cocoon-like sleeping pods under the stars. Cross Hill Lodge & Domes is found in the high country setting of Glen Dene Station beneath the Southern Alps. The six geodesic Pacific Domes are said to be the first permanent structures of their kind in the country. The 40-square-metre domes feature their own centralised super king-size bed and bathroom unit, while floor to ceiling windows allow visitors to soak up light pollution-free night skies and picturesque views across the park-like surroundings. Each dome comes equipped with its own small kitchenette, contemporary bathroom, climate controlled gas fire and heat pump and private deck. Interior furnishings have been inspired by the local landscape and include plush sheepskins and woollen blankets. All guests have access to the main Cross Hill Lodge situated above the domes. The lodge serves as a gathering point to sit down for a meal, unwind with a massage or enjoy some quiet time in the outdoor wood-fired hot tub. Dinner and breakfast is provided with most of the packages and guests can choose from a range of meal options — including local paddock-to-plate cuisine and three-course degustation experiences with wines from the surrounding Central Otago region. Glen Dene Station has been owned and operated by the Burdon family since 1929. Cross Hill Lodge owners Richard and Sarah Burdon say the dome experience provides high country hospitality in an alpine lake-side environment, with mountains, forest trails and rivers right on your doorstep. The pair can advise and arrange activities for visitors to the area, including anything from private helicopter crayfishing excursions to farm tours and local e-bike tours. The family also owns The Camp, a holiday park experience that's been popular with campers and tourists since 1971. Cross Hill Lodge & Domes is open for bookings from May 9, 2021. Packages start from $375 per night for two people including cooked and continental breakfast. For more information, visit crosshill.co.nz. Images: b.remarkable media.
Each year, we all anticipate the arrival of December 25. Because of the day off, that includes the promise of an afternoon spent dozing in a hammock — and for dessert fiends, it also includes Gelato Messina's annual Christmas cake. We hope you like a certain quintessential Australian dish, because that's what is on the gelato chain's menu again. Yes, Messina is bringing back its version of the trifle. The Christmas Coma will return for its sixth year running — and, although it seems like we say this every festive season, this time it's especially decadent. In fact, it's a sticky date and toffee pudding turned into a trifle, combining multiple beloved desserts into one seasonal — and epic — treat. 2022's Christmas Coma will once again feature layer upon layer of everything that is good about Christmas — but instead of being soggy and slightly regrettable, this one will have you licking the glass bowl. So what's in it? Well, Messina is going with layers of caramel cremeux, that all-important sticky date and toffee pudding, crème fraîche chantilly and chocolate-coated biscuit crumble. On top? 'Tis the season to eat a handmade white chocolate and coffee chocolate wreath. Plus, it'll come with some Messina brandy custard to douse all over the mess. And, it all serves 20–30 (or less if you really commit). All of the above comes in a Christmas Coma mega pack, which costs $250 and can be pre-ordered from Tuesday, November 1 — with times varying depending on your state, as the gelato chain has been doing with its specials lately. Accordingly, folks in Queensland and the ACT are able to purchase at 9am AEDT, Victorians at 9.15am, and New South Wales customers are split across three times depending on the store (with Surry Hills, Bondi, Randwick, Circular Quay and Miranda on sale at 9.30am; Brighton Le Sands, Tramsheds, Parramatta and Darlinghurst at 9.45am; and Darling Square, Newtown, Norwest, Rosebery and Penrith at 10am). You'll then be able to pick up your Christmas Coma between Wednesday, December 21–Saturday, December 24, all within regular store opening hours — and from all Gelato Messina stores across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. It comes in a Messina cooler bag and, if you keep it in there all sealed up, can survive for up to one hour. In each of the last few years, the trifle sold out ridiculously fast, so we suggest you don't wait on this one. The 2022 Christmas Coma will be available to order from Tuesday, November 1 for $250. Head to on the Messina website for further details.
Everybody likes putting things on walls. Particularly pretty things, and particularly well-designed things. Better still, the people at Ferm Living are now making removable vinyl wall stickers designed to adorn your home, which are also functional and educational. The products are designed in Denmark and made in Europe, so they have that lovely Nordic well-designed glow. The stickers can be either decorative or functional. If it's winter and the birds have stopped singing, put a flock up by the window to remind you spring is coming, or if you're longing for the forest, put up some tree trunks. The calendars come with their own sets of post-it notes and chalk, so you can wipe them down and begin again fresh next month, the to-do lists make the task of being organised neater and easier to access, and the period tables can provide your bedroom with that chemistry lab atmosphere it's been so sadly lacking. And while their map probably won't help you find Azerbaijan or help you figure out how many countries the Danube runs through, at least it provides a reference point for discussing current affairs when you bring home someone lovely of an evening. https://youtube.com/watch?v=zWoDOUE2X58 [Via Cool Hunting]
It's the moment that many a price-conscious Australian fashionista has been hoping for — the opening of our very own H&M. Yes, right here, Down Under, we'll soon be able to indulge in the highly trendy yet easy-on-the-budget range that shoppers across five continents have been enjoying for seasons. The store, to be launched during the first few months of 2014, will be occupying a space in Melbourne's illustrious 150-year-old GPO building. With 5,000 square metres of area and three floors, it will be a full concept flagship number, as well as one of the most expansive H&M shops to be found anywhere on the planet. What's that sound I hear? Your bank account heaving an enormous sigh? "We are very excited to announce that we will be opening the first H&M store in Melbourne, Australia during 2014," commented Hans Andersson, country manager for H&M Australia. "We look forward to bringing fashion and quality at the best price to Australian customers." Watch this space for more launch news.
Film-lovers, round up your friends; the fifteenth annual Manhattan Short Film Festival returns to the Astor in St Kilda, this October 3rd. Audiences here in Melbourne are invited to view and judge the ten international finalist films being shown, the results of which will be tallied along with the votes from other performances all around the world. Dutch offering A Curious Conjunction Of Coincidences, directed by Joost Reijimers, sees bad luck connect three men even though they all live in completely different centuries. Henrik M Dahlsbrakhan’s Norwegian short The Devil’s Ballroom takes viewers on a perilous arctic journey to the North Pole, as polar explorer makes a critical, life-changing decision. Inspired by the actions of his favourite comic book heroes, a young boy tries to save the day in director Tudor Giurgiu’s Romanian piece. Seven other finalist films from countries like the USA, Peru, Ireland and Russia will be shown too.
In need of plans this weekend? 1800 Lasagne is converting its restaurant into a pop-up bottle shop for the day and will be selling wines from its reserve cellar and everyday collection. The wine offerings range from pet nats to chardonnays, and pinot noirs to roses all sourced from Italy and Australia. To elevate the Saturday afternoon vibe, the Thornbury restaurant will offer free tastings and bites including a salumi board, house Giardiniera and marinated olives. Additionally, customers can purchase a variety of merch on the day. Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 12 and head on down to 1800 Lasagne from 12pm—4pm for the wine market. Top image: Maksym Kaharlytskyi
Melbournians can embrace their inner child during This Is a Door, a month-long festival of games and participatory performance launching on Halloween. Melbourne’s new games designers, in league with a handful of inventive companies, have crafted up four weeks of play to suit all tastes. Maybe you’ll try The Curse, a 30-minute puzzle/chase game designed by Pop Up Playground (PUP) (warning: if you have a phobia of clowns, skip it). The PUP team are also hosting a weekend of games including Belgian Roulette, Rainbow Running, Invisible Labyrinth and Impossible Bookclub — disclaimer: we have no idea what any of those games are but they sound great. Check out We Want You by Urban Codemakers, a game involving three guilds on a mission to transform the streets of St Kilda. Habitual pub dwellers should join Werewolf, a spin-off on the classic Mafia game by Euchronic Games. If craft is more your thing, settle yourself on The Nylon Zoo’s picnic blanket and design your own fabulous beast with the folks behind I See Magical Creatures. For the proudly nerdy, there’s Mech Combat, where you and a co-pilot can guide your own robotic war machine through the streets of St Kilda. Then make some Lego Poetry, photograph your own miniature literary moment and blast it into the social media sphere with the tag #legopoetry. Events take place at Luna Park, Theatre Works and other venues in St Kilda. Prices range from free (around half of the games) to $30. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. Check out all locations, dates and prices at the official website.
Pollution in big cities is a big problem, but thankfully there are people out there taking steps to make cities sustainable. Aluminium producer Alcoa has developed a building material which feeds on smog to clean itself and the surrounding air. Reynobond with Ecoclean is an aluminium panel coated with titanium dioxide which decomposes fumes and pollutants using sunlight as a catalyst. Only the smallest amount of rain is then required to wash away the now harmless particles. Pilot testing of the panels is taking place in Europe and North America. We all know trees have air-cleansing properties, but Alcoa claims that just under 1000 square metres of the panelling would be the equivalent to the power of 80 trees. And while the parts can be pricey, they will mean a reduction in maintenance costs for buildings. [Via Fast Company]
It's the kind of thing nightmares are made of. You arrive on day one of your dream job, but everyone is watching — including ever-present cameras. It's also the type of situation good documentaries can be born of, taking the fly-on-the-wall technique to its extreme. Trailing a fresh-faced new arrival in the hope that fireworks follow could be a waste of time, or it could result in something special. Both scenarios met Raf Simons when he commenced his latest post as artistic director for the House of Christian Dior in April 2012. His appointment was huge news in fashion circles, with the Belgian designer better known for his minimalistic ready-to-wear lines for his own label. Taking over the creative reigns of one of the biggest clothing houses in the industry, he had just two months to put together his first-ever haute couture collection. Observing in the atelier, director Frédéric Tcheng captures the chaos of Simons' trial-by-fire — though the dramas are few and the designs are many. From the moment he meets his new colleagues, to his reaction at the star-studded unveiling of eight weeks' worth of hard work, Dior and I charts his journey with an insider's perspective. It's that peek behind the high-pressure scenes that lifts the documentary, looking further than you might expect. Simons is focused on the massive mission at hand and reluctant to share much about his vision or processes, though he's not the only important figure to consider. The many others toiling away night and day, some mainstays in the workroom for decades, are just as crucial — and are treated accordingly. That's not just Tcheng's approach in trying to make a more interesting movie, but reflective of the status quo at Dior, where collaboration is essential. Also influential is that other figure, the legendary Christian Dior himself. The man who started the brand is worked into the film through snippets of his diary read aloud, his presence felt elsewhere in every shot bearing the label's name — and there's plenty — and discussion about its operating philosophy. Despite the title, however, what the documentary offers is an insight into the way those carrying on his legacy handle that task. Here, it's the I that has it. Tcheng is no stranger to the world of fancy frocks, celebrities and catwalks, having worked on Valentino: The Last Emperor and co-directed Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel, with his affection for the industry evident. It would've just been something to catch a crisply shot glimpse of the hallowed halls responsible for some of the greatest looks of the last 70 years, especially for the already converted — but in his hands, Dior and I delivers more than that. With clear eyes, it shows the mania behind the magic and the team behind the icon. That, folks, really is fashion, beyond the parade of beautiful dresses.
Come with us now on a journey through time and space, as Matthew McConaughey takes the top spot as heroic protagonist in the new Christopher Nolan film, Interstellar. The brand new (awesome) trailer can only be watched at Interstellar's newly launched website. Once you get there, you'll need a special passcode — '7201969' — the date Apollo 11 landed on the moon. Badass. The film sees McConaughey and fellow astronaut Anne Hathaway travel through a wormhole with the simple goal of saving humanity. The newly-released trailer gives a tiny insight into McConaughey’s character — an engineer and widowed father with two children — as well as vast landscapes of alien worlds and a spaceship hurtling through empty space. We can tell this is not going to be a smooth-sailing intergalactic ride, as McConaughey philosophises in the opening lines, "We used to look up at the sky and wonder at our place in the stars. Now we just look down and worry about our place in the dirt." Cue goosebumps. The highly-anticipated film also stars Jessica Chastain, Casey Affleck, Michael Caine, Wes Bentley, John Lithgow, Ellen Burstyn, Topher Grace and Matt Damon. That’s one stellar Interstellar line-up right there (#sorrynotsorry). This is Nolan’s first film since wrapping up the Batman trilogy with The Dark Night Rises. Interstellar will be in cinemas November 7 and has a pretty killer poster lurking around: Via The Verge.
Fancy prancing through fields laced with the charm of provincial France? It's just casual summer weekendery when So Frenchy So Chic is in town. The ever-popular one-day French festival is waltzing back to Melbourne's Werribee Park Mansion for its ninth year running on Sunday, January 12. If you haven't been before, expect an entire afternoon of French-inspired niceties, including (but not limited to) gourmet picnic hampers, tartlets and terrines, offensively good wine and croquet all to a chill French soundtrack. So Frenchy hinges around a solid lineup of eclectic artists you may be yet to meet — and ones you might've, too. If you haven't heard of Corine and her brand of French disco-electronica, consider this your introduction. And, while you've likely heard of French pop royalty Lou Doillon, given that she's been on the bill before, this time she'll be playing tracks from her latest album. Don't miss Nouvelle Vauge either, with the group bringing their chilled-out covers of new wave hits to town for their third So Frenchy appearance. Also on the lineup is up Senegal-born French folkster Tété, as well as a blend of beats, tango, bossa nova and jazz from Gotan Project co-founder Philippe Cohen Solal, who'll do a DJ set. If you're not the most organised of picnickers, So Frenchy is putting on the works again with fancy picnic boxes and cheese plates. Filled with brioche buns, gruyere tarts, crusty baguettes, quiche lorraines, parfait, cheeses and more, the picnic boxes are one to preorder if you don't want to miss out. But So Frenchy won't let you go hungry; there'll be a huge banquet of seafood, charcuterie, pastries and more available on the day. And of course, there'll be plenty of Laurent Perrier Champagne, French beer, and rosé, red and whites wines as well. Early bird tickets are now on sale for $84 a pop. If you've got kids, you'll be happy to know that the whole thing is very family friendly, and children under 12 can get in for free. Images: Liz Sunshine.
Melburnians will now fork out a bit extra for their public transport travels, with Public Transport Victoria upping the price of Myki fares by 2.2 percent. The change came into effect on Tuesday, January 1. Fares have been adjusted in line with inflation, impacting trains, buses and trams. And while no one is a fan of price hikes in general, 2019's annual jump is the lowest fare increase since 2014. In 2018, fares went up by 4.7 percent. The new hike will see passengers shelling out between six and 20 cents extra per adult-priced journey across zone one, zone two, and zone one and two trips — for both two-hour tickets and daily fares. Myki passes will also increase in cost, with the smallest jump seeing travellers pay $30 for an adult seven-day zone two pass, and the biggest bringing 325+day zone one and two passes from $1683.50 to $1722.50. Most concession fares have also risen, jumping between three and 10 cents on two-hour and daily tickets. Regional Victorians travelling around their towns have been spared the price hike, with fares remaining at $2.40 for a regional trip within the same zone.
Christmas shopping can be one of the most hectic tasks leading up to the holiday season, but the good news is that The Big Design Market Melbourne is officially back after a three-year hiatus. Scheduled to set up camp for three days at the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton, the market will feature more than 270 design stalls spanning designer homeware, limited-edition art prints, local fashion, jewellery, stationery and more. Elsewhere, a slew of tastemakers will serve up exceptional culinary experiences at the food emporium including coffee from the classic ST. ALi, savoury pies from Footscray's iconic Pie Thief, fresh Portuguese tarts from Natas & Co and innovative cocktails from Sydney's Archie Rose Distilling Co and Original Spirit Co. Celebrating 10 years, The Big Design Market has also teamed up with One Billion Stars for Weaving Day this December. Guests are welcome to take part in a free workshop led by Maryann Talia Pau – a Samoan-Australian artist and weaver – where they will learn how to create an eight-pointed star to support One Billion Stars' goal: to weave one billion stars by 2032 to raise awareness for violence-free communities. The Big Design Market will run from Friday, December 2–Sunday, December 4 at the Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton. Tickets are now available to purchase online. Images: Amelia Stanwix
When you're in lockdown, you're only meant to go to the shops to buy essentials — and while creative cocktails may be crucial to your stay-at-home experience, gathering all the ingredients to make them doesn't really fit with the intention behind the rule. Thankfully, delivery services have been filling in the gaps. Cocktail Porter is one of them, bringing DIY kits to your door featuring everything you need to whip up inventive beverages. And yes, it's mighty handy even if your part of the country doesn't happen to be locked down at this very moment. Already, the service has delivered three different types of Gelato Messina cocktail kits — including summery concoctions, Easter cocktails served in Easter eggs and dulce de leche espresso martinis. The next packs on its list also feature a beloved ingredient, although Messina isn't involved. But hey, everyone loves Wizz Fizz, right? Yes, we know the answer to that question. Every Australian kid loves Wizz Fizz, and every Aussie that's ever been a kid, because that's something your tastebuds can never outgrow. Cocktail Porter's new DIY Tommy's margarita kits feature the little bags of sherbet alongside Tromba Blanco tequila, agave syrup and Listo Tommy's margarita mix. It also comes with chilli salt, if you'd prefer to spice up your drink. You can pick between two different-sized packs, with a small kit costing $75 and serving up six drinks — and a large pack priced at $135 and making 18 dessert cocktails. Cocktail Porter delivers Australia-wide, if that's your spring drinking plans sorted. The DIY Tommy's margarita kits will be delivered from Wednesday, September 15, and you'll need to have signed up for one by Sunday, September 12. They're actually part of Cocktail Porter's monthly subscriptions, which see a different kit sent to your door each and every month. To order Cocktail Porter's DIY Tommy's margarita kits, head to the Cocktail Porter website.
Taking over the Jewish Museum of Australia from October 22, 2017 until March 25, 2018, Amy Winehouse: A Family Portrait aims to provide a different insight into the beloved singer-songwriter, stepping through topics of faith, fashion, music and London life. And, thanks to an accompanying music program, it'll also offer up a soundtrack to match. In a series of Thursday evening sessions taking place on November 9, December 14, January 11, February 8 and March 8, the museum will showcase five genres of music that Winehouse worked within and was inspired by, via a series of live performances. it all kicks off with a celebration of jazz and big band tunes with The Rookies, before moving on to soul and R&B with Thando, gospel with Phia and Melbourne Indie Voices, Motown with Vince Peach and hip hop with DJ MzRizk. Presented with Hear Them Holler, tickets cost $16 ($12 for concessions and museum members), and include entry to the exhibition. Other events in the program range from Ashleigh Kreveld's Amy and I, an interactive cabaret performance from the experienced Winehouse impersonator, to Amy Winehouse — a tribute, which takes over the Memo Music Hall with a concert drawn from her repertoire featuring a heap of local talent. Image: Festival passes, various dates. © The Jewish Museum
The Wheeler Centre is packing a punch, presenting a program of important panels and impressive parties as part of Middlesex: Queer Week. The program explores sexuality and identity in all their alternate forms, offering you the chance to have a think about trans bodies at The Wheeler Centre and have a big ol' Queer Party at the "climax" of the week at the Melba Spiegeltent. The program features a long list of guest speakers including Christos Tsiolkas, Buck Angel, Anne Hunter, Amy Middleton, Selina Jenkins, Benjamin Law and much more — a lineup that's sure to deliver entertaining and thought-provoking conversation. Over the next five days, various talks will cover topics such as sexuality and sexual identity as a spectrum and the evolution of gay representation on screen, stage and page. Check out the full program here, and remember to book, as sessions are selling out fast!
When, towards the end of May, Premier Daniel Andrews announced the next stage in Victoria's gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, he advised that more limits would lift in mid-June if the state continued to make progress. That's been the case over the past few weeks, so Premier Andrews has today, Sunday, June 14, revealed exactly what's in store — and allowing more people into more venues is at the top of the list. Since June 1, Victorians have been able to dine-in at cafes, restaurants, pubs and clubs with 20-person limits, and visit galleries, museums, drive-in cinemas, historic sites, zoos and outdoor amusement parks with the same caps in place, too. The state's residents have also been able to gather with 20 people both inside and outside of homes, and head away on holiday and stay overnight, as part of a sizeable range of relaxed restrictions. Next, from 11.59pm on Sunday, June 21, the Victorian Government is expanding the list of permitted activities — and increase the corresponding person limits. That date coincides with when the state's current State of Emergency is next due to end, and the list of changes is considerable, with all of the following back on the cards: Cafes, restaurants, pubs and clubs can host up to 50 seated patrons — and, at pubs and clubs, you'll no longer be required to purchase a meal with your drinks. Gatherings of up to 50 people in libraries, community centres and halls, in addition to the people needed to operate the space. Religious ceremonies of up to 50 people, in addition to those required to conduct the service. Cinemas, concert venues, auditoriums and theatres will be allowed to reopen with 50-person limits per space. 50-person limits at galleries, museums and amusement parks. All sports training and competition for people under 18 years of age. All non-contact sports for people of all ages. Indoor sports centres and physical recreation spaces, including gyms, can reopen with 20 people per space — and a cap of up to 10 in each group for those over the age of 18. Local football teams, soccer clubs and other contact sports can resume training for over-18s from July 13, then resume their full competitions from July 20. Clubs and community facilities can reopen their changerooms. Holiday accommodation and camping sites will able able to reopen communal spaces such as showers and kitchens. Ski season can begin, and ski accommodation can reopen. The majority of the above changes had already been flagged back in May; however Premier Andrews has now confirmed that they'll definitely be going ahead. https://twitter.com/DanielAndrewsMP/status/1271963165903872003 Announcing the eased restrictions, he also noted that maintaining COVID-19-safe practices is essential. "For every small step we take, our own personal responsibility grows," he explained. "If Victoria was its own nation, our testing rates would be amongst the highest in the world. But we can't afford a backwards step. These changes — and any further that follow — must be determined in accordance with the data." Accordingly, as has proven the case throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the standard social-distancing requirements will still apply — so sticking with physical distancing, maintaining four square metres per person indoors, hand and cough hygiene, and frequent cleaning and disinfection. Victorians are also advised to still continue to work from home. "If you can keep working from home — you must do that too," Premier Andrews said. "We still want to limit the number of people moving around our state and help protect those who do have to go to the workplace." To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. Top image: Kate Shanasy
"We shall fight on the beaches," Winston Churchill told British parliament on June 4, 1940, as World War II raged in Dunkirk. "We shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender." His impassioned words came at the end of a heated speech, after a heated month of political debate, in the heated early days of the global conflict. Churchill had been Prime Minister of England for mere weeks, and spent that entire time caught up in arguments about the country's response to Hitler. His colleagues wanted to negotiate, but he refused. It certainly seems as though filmmakers have taken Churchill's words to heart over the past 12 months. They won't give up on bringing this tense period to the big screen, whether in movies about Churchill, the Battle of Dunkirk or both. With Their Finest, Lone Scherfig came at it with a light, romantic drama about morale-raising movies. With Dunkirk, Christopher Nolan delivered a stunningly immersive account of war at sea, in the air and on the shore. Australian director Jonathan Teplitzky took a slightly different approach, with intimate biopic Churchill focusing on the lead up to the D-Day landings in 1944. It's not hard to see echoes of the latter film in Joe Wright's Darkest Hour, however, which recreates the cigar-smoking, whiskey-swilling politician's other crucial moment in power. With Gary Oldman in the lead role, Darkest Hour steps through the turbulence that awaited Churchill when he took on the nation's top job in such troubled times. With colleagues Neville Chamberlain (Ronald Pickup) and Lord Halifax (Stephen Dillane) certain that a peace treaty with Nazi Germany is the only way to save Britain from bombing, mass casualties and catastrophe, he has a considerable fight on his hands. The film includes glimpses of the ordeal at Dunkirk, but speeches, rather than bullets, are the main focus. In between verbal scuffles, Churchill seeks support and advice from his wife Clementine (Kristin Scott Thomas), has cautious lunches with King George (Ben Mendelsohn) and initially overwhelms his young secretary (Lily James) with his erratic nature. While both Churchill and Dunkirk are clearly no strangers to cinemas of late, Darkest Hour has one particular weapon all of its own: recent Golden Globe winner Oldman. The veteran actor gives a captivating performance, even coming hot on the heels of Brian Cox's excellent work in Churchill just months ago. Lured out of retirement by Oldman, special-effects makeup artist Kazuhiro Tsuji creates flawless prosthetics; however it's the man beneath them who always commands attention. Rumbling through terse confrontations, showing Churchill's tender side at home and letting his anxieties seep out in brief, quiet moments, Oldman delivers a vibrant and complicated portrayal not only marked by its impressive imitation, but by the immense range on display. The film as a whole doesn't prove quite as consistent. Tackling Dunkirk for the second time following 2007's Atonement, Wright serves up several acutely judged and thoroughly engrossing scenes, as well as an array of inventively composed shots. Frustratingly though, he also wades into moments of easy comedy and unconvincing sentimentality — most egregiously in a sequence where Churchill takes public transport without his minders and receives some down-to-earth wisdom from his constituents. In his defence, the filmmaker is partly trapped by the straightforward script, with The Theory of Everything screenwriter Anthony McCarten checking all of the expected boxes. Thankfully, Darkest Hour can always rely on Oldman, whose performance stands out above the formula. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CpKvpSr7p1g
Food is usually the gift you give when you can't think of anything else. Come on, you know it's true. That said, anyone getting their dad Gelato Messina's latest special Father's Day creation can't be accused of that. Actually, anyone who buys it for their dad instead of just nabbing it for themselves deserves to be the family favourite. As it did last year — and for the past few years for Mother's Day, too — chocolates are on the brand's Father's Day menu in 2022. Chocolate biscuits, to be exact. Are mint slice biscuits a staple of your parents' pantry? Do they make you feel nostalgic for that exact reason? Well, now you can get your daad the Messina version. The gelato chain does love taking other beloved desserts and giving them its own spin; see also: honey joys, Bounty and Chokito bars, Iced VoVos, Viennetta and Golden Gaytimes, just to name a few. Messina's minty biscuits, as these bikkies are called, come in 12 packs, and feature chocolate sablé biscuits with a soft mint centre that are then covered in 65-percent single-origin Messina dark chocolate. They're being made at the brand's Rosebery headquarters, and you can only pick them up online, for $25 a box plus shipping, from 9am, Monday, August 22. Then, they'll be sent by Monday, August 29. If you really are ordering them for your dad and yours come early, try not to eat them, obviously. Gelato Messina's minty biscuits will be available to order from 9am, Monday, August 22.
Leaping from the screen to the stage in 2018, Mean Girls not only found a second life in the theatre, but did so with singing and dancing. Unsurprisingly, the production was a hit. With the musical's book written by Tina Fey, its tunes composed by her husband Jeff Richmond and its lyrics by Tony-nominee Nell Benjamin, the machinations of high-school cliques struck just as much of a chord with audiences when set to songs — and given that the show's tracks have highly appropriate names such as 'Meet the Plastics', 'World Burn' and 'Here (You Can Sit with Us)', that's to be expected. Also easy to predict: the musical's next leap, with Cady Heron's tale heading back to the cinema. No need to stress if you haven't seen the all-singing, all-dancing Mean Girls on Broadway, because a film version will soon be brightening up a picture palace near you. When the movie adaptation screens on a Wednesday, you'll want to wear pink. And, like the Lindsay Lohan and Rachel McAdams-starring original film, as well as the stage musical that followed, you'll be basking in Fey's talents. She wrote the initial feature's screenplay and, as detailed by The Hollywood Reporter, she's now producing this new movie musical. So is Saturday Night Live's Lorne Michaels, although no other creatives — or cast, or a release date — have been announced. The story will stay the same, obviously, charting Cady's rough adjustment to American high-school life after spending the bulk of her childhood living in Africa — and her time spent with the resident popular clique, known as 'the Plastics'. If you're wondering how it all works as a musical, check out a clip from the stage show below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGmgEoOF7Gs Via The Hollywood Reporter.
