Maybe you're keen to celebrate the end of winter and the beginning of the warmer weather. Perhaps 2022 has just been a chaotic year for you, as it has for most of us, and you're desperate to get away. You could always be yearning for a holiday, as almost everyone is. And, you might have the perfect vacation partner that you haven't been able to spend enough time flying to scenic spots with during the pandemic. If a few, most or all of the above applies, Jetstar comes bearing great news: a fly a friend for free' flight sale. Until 11.59pm AEST on Sunday, August 28 — or sold out — the Aussie airline is doing package deals for paired travellers, with one person's airfares included for nothing. Your wallet, your calendar, all that stress you're carrying around in your shoulders — they all love this for you. So will whichever mate or date you're now hitting up for a discounted holiday adventure. The packages cover flights, hotels and, usually, breakfast as well — with deals from Sydney including $484 for two nights at the Holiday Inn Express Little Collins Street in Melbourne, $1122 for five nights at Meridian Port Douglas, and $604 for a three-night getaway at voco Gold Coast. There's also a $732 three-night package at Pacific Hotel Cairns, a $1316 option for three nights at Daydream Island Resort and a $1151 stay for three nights at Hobart's Mövenpick Hotel. Offers and prices vary per city, as do dates for travel, but most destinations remain the same. Melburnians can also stay at the Metro Hotel Marlow Sydney Central for two nights for $434, for instance — and get cheaper prices to Hobart and slightly more expensive costs to Queensland. Whichever you pick — including options leaving from Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and more — you'll need to book online. When you do so, to get the deal, you'll also need to add an extra passenger. Also, checked baggage isn't included, so factor that into your budget — or pack light. Jetstar's 'fly a friend for free' sale runs until 11.59pm AEST on Sunday, August 28 — or until sold out. Images: Jetstar.
It's been 12 years since Danny Rogers and Jerome Borazio decided to fill a Melbourne alleyway with tunes in 2005. Heading back to their collection of unconventional venues for another year, Laneway Festival has announced its 2017 lineup. Returning to Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, Fremantle, Auckland and Singapore next January and February, Laneway will raise a plastic cup to the middle of summer with one heck of a killer lineup. Following the already announced appearance of AB Original and Chet Faker (or is it Nick Murphy now?), Laneway will see one heck of a crew on their stages, including Aussies Tame Impala — who will be only doing Laneway this time, no sideshows. Oxford band Glass Animals will be coming out for the festival, along wiht other international acts Tourist, Tycho, Nao and riot grrl Kathleen Hanna. There's plenty of local love on the lineup too, with Gang of Youths, Jagwar Ma, Sampa the Great and Camp Cope all making appearances. In short, you'll want to be getting a tickie — they go on sale at 9am AEST on Wednesday, September 21. But, enough chat, here's the full lineup. LANEWAY FESTIVAL 2017 LINEUP A.B.Original AURORA Baro* Bob Moses Camp Cope Car Seat Headrest Clams Casino Ecca Vandal* Fascinator Floating Points (live) Flyying Colours* Gang of Youths GL Glass Animals Jagwar Ma Jess Kent Julia Jacklin Koi Child Luca Brasi Mick Jenkins Mr. Carmack NAO Nicholas Allbrook Nick Murphy (fka Chet Faker)** Roland Tings Sampa The Great Tame Impala** Tash Sultana The Julie Ruin Tourist Tycho White Lung Whitney *Melbourne only **Exclusive to Laneway, no sideshows LANEWAY FESTIVAL 2017 DATES Brisbane — Thursday, January 26 Melbourne — Saturday, January 28 Auckland — Monday, January 30 Adelaide — Friday, February 3 Sydney — Saturday, February 4 Fremantle — Sunday, February 5 Tickets go on sale Wednesday, September 21 at 9am AEST from Laneway Festival. Image: Andy Fraser.
I’ve spent my life operating under the premise that pollution is ugly. No doubt you have too. But oh, how wrong we were. Ohio environmental engineer Dr Guy Riefler and artist John Sabraw have told us all by engineering a paint that recycles toxic runoff and keeps it out of waterways — eventually producing colourful and wondrous abstract works of art. The waste is collected from streams in Ohio, where heavy metals leak from abandoned coal mines, coat the habitat in a thick sludge and render water acidic. “When this water hits streams, it lowers the pH and kills fish,” Riefler, whose career has focused on acid mine drainage, told the Smithsonian magazine. While the professor deliberated how to restore the ecosystem, it was realised that the runoff and commercial red and yellow paints oddly have something in common — they both contain ferric oxyhydroxides. Excessive chemistry jargon ensues. The transformation begins with collecting water from the damaged site and, using sodium hydroxide, raising its pH levels while exposing it to oxygen at a specific rate (don’t try this at home, kids) to oxidise the iron. The metal components, invisible until this point, blossom into rich colours. The iron sludge is then dried, milled and mixed with alkali refined linseed oil — a traditional binder — until finally we have (voila!) an oil paint that’s safe to both use and produce. In an ugly-ducking-to-swan-type scenario, Riefler and Sabraw transform the toxic sludge into artworks inspired by trees, streams and landscapes — the very thing they might be saving. Their invention, six years in the making, is now being refined for a commercially viable paint, the proceeds of which would be put towards cleaning up polluted streams. Via Inhabitat and Smithsonian.
Summer's yet to kick off, but already you can get a jump-start on plotting your entertainment for the cooler months, as the NGV drops its jam-packed 2020 autumn/winter art program. Heading the lineup is world-premiere exhibition Pierre Bonnard, created in collaboration with famed Parisian museum the Musée d'Orsay. It offers a glimpse into the life and work of acclaimed 20th-century French artist Bonnard through a sprawling collection of pieces on loan from the likes of London's Tate and The Museum of Modern Art in New York, along with other renowned French museums. A close friend of the legendary Henri Matisse, the artist is best known for his stylised decorative works evoking scenes of everyday domestic life. The exhibition will see Bonnard's recognisable designs brought to life even further, with the help of famed Iranian-Egyptian-French architect and designer India Mahdavi. Mahdavi — who has designed eye-catching spaces like London's Red Valentino store and the famous all-pink Gallery at sketch — will use her signature colour palettes and love of textures to create an immersive, life-size version of one of Bonnard's domestic scenes. [caption id="attachment_747306" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Coffee (1915), Pierre Bonnard, Tate, London, presented by Sir Michael Sadler through the NACF 1941.[/caption] Another of the NGV's upcoming exhibitions is the first major Australian survey of contemporary artist and Venice Biennale Silver Lion winner, Camille Henrot. The now New York-based artist creates rich multimedia works that explore the idea of myth, while striving to capture the ways in which we humans try to make sense of existence. This season also sees the NGV pulling together the biggest ever retrospective of Melbourne-based artist Destiny Deacon, who explores their links to the K'ua K'ua and Erub/Mer peoples to create humorous works that confront the tougher parts of Australia's history. You'll catch a generous collection of over 100 installations, photos, sculptures and videos, including newly commissioned pieces and collaborations with fellow artist Virginia Fraser. Pierre Bonnard will run from June 5–October 4, 2020; Camille Henrot from May 22–October, 2020; Destiny from March 27–August 9, 2020. Images: The Gallery at sketch designed by India Mahdavi, London, 2014, photo by Thomas Humery; The Pale Fox (2014), Camille Henrot, copyright and courtesy of the artist and Kamel Mennour, Konig Galerie, Metro Pictures, photo by Anders Sune Berg; Smile (2017), Destiny Deacon, copyright and courtesy of the artist.
If you missed out on a Brazil or Chile trip this year, fear not — the folks at Lady Carolina are serving up the next best thing. Over the course of one lively evening, the Brunswick East venue will take guests on a culinary trek across South America and Mexico, as executive chef Hugo Diaz puts his own spin on some iconic, Latin American dishes. Tickets to this one-off Good Food Month event include five vibrant courses, matched to Latin American wines and a surprise feature spirit.
"I'm still a flight attendant, and I've been making better choices." In the just-dropped trailer for The Flight Attendant's second season, they're some of the first words that Cassie Bowden (The Big Bang Theory's Kaley Cuoco) utters — at an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting in Los Angeles, where she's moved after the dramas we all watched back in 2020. But no one ever thought that this pulpy thriller would come back and just give its protagonist a normal, average, uneventful life, so those opening moments of calm are short-lived, naturally. Cassie has picked up a part-time job, which she also tells her sober pals in LA about — but she doesn't mention that she's now moonlighting for the CIA. Yes, in its second batch of episodes, this airport novel-to-screen series is going full chaotic international espionage thriller. Expect to spy plenty of Berlin in the first sneak peek, too. This time around, Cassie is doing great things at both of her jobs — booze-free things, too — when she inadvertently witnesses a murder while on assignment for her side hustle overseas. Cue more country-hopping intrigue, with the show also filming in Reykjavik. Cue more of Cassie's inner monologues as well, even if she thinks she's seen the last of them with her last drink. Coming to Binge in Australia and streaming via Neon in NZ, The Flight Attendant has also unveiled its return date: in Australia, you can mark Thursday, April 21 in your diaries. Also new: cast members Mo McRae (Big Little Lies), Callie Hernandez (Under the Silver Lake), JJ Soria (Gentefied), Alanna Ubach (Euphoria), Cheryl Hines (Curb Your Enthusiasm), Jessie Ennis (Mythic Quest), Mae Martin (Feel Good), Margaret Cho (Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens), Santiago Cabrera (Ema), Sharon Stone (Ratched) and Shohreh Aghdashloo (The Expanse). They'll join Golden Globe- and Emmy-nominee Cuoco, obviously, plus returning co-stars Zosia Mamet (Girls), Griffin Matthews (Dear White People), Deniz Akdeniz (The High Note) and Rosie Perez (The Last Thing He Wanted). And if you're new to this small-screen adaptation of Chris Bohjalian's 2018 novel of the same name, the first season unravelled quite the twisty tale — starting high in the sky, bouncing around the globe and delivering a hectic murder-mystery. Quickly addictive, filled with sudden revelations and reversals, multiple points of interest playing out across a split-screen setup, and also sporting cliffhangers to end every episode, the slick, swift-moving series knew exactly the kind of story it was telling and went for broke. More is coming in season two, clearly. Check out the trailer for The Flight Attendant's second season below: The Flight Attendant's second season will be available to stream via Binge in Australia from Thursday, April 21 — and is headed to Neon in New Zealand. Read our full review of season one. Top image: HBO Max / Binge.
Prepare yourself, folks — this year, Australia's launching into summer with the help of a huge new music festival. The brainchild of industry big guns Onelove (Stereosonic), Live Nation (Splendour in the Grass, Falls Festival) and Hardware (Piknic Electronik, Babylon), Festival X will hit Melbourne on Sunday, December 1. The large-scale music party is pulling no punches when it comes to its debut lineup, headlined by international heavyweights including Scottish DJ Calvin Harris, the Grammy-nominated Armin van Buuren, Steve Aoki and our own Alison Wonderland. Spanning multiple stages, it's set to deliver a world-class serve of hip hop, pop and electronica.US rapper Lil Pump will make his own Aussie debut, joined on the all-star bill by the likes of British DJ duo CamelPhat, Ohio-based rapper Trippie Redd, Denmark's Kölsch and German techno king Paul Kalkbrenner. Meanwhile, there'll be plenty flying the flag for the local scene, with sets from favourites including bass and dubstep star Godlands, Australian-raised trance DJ MaRLo, Sydney act Sunset Bros and singer-songwriter Thandi Phoenix.
It's been less than two years since Sophie Ellis-Bextor last played live Down Under; however, when she took to the stage at Summer Camp in Sydney and Melbourne in 2022, and Melt Festival in Brisbane as well, Saltburn hadn't happened. So when the British singer-songwriter performs in Australia and New Zealand in spring 2024, busting out 'Murder on the Dancefloor' is certain to be a whole new experience. The 2001 single has always been an earworm, a delight and a floor filler, but echoing over an unforgettable scene in one of 2023's best movies has made everyone remember that they love it again. Indeed, expect it to be a highlight not just of Ellis-Bextor's set, but of the whole show that's actually a Take That tour with Ellis-Bextor burning the goddamn house right down in support. Those houses: RAC Arena in Perth, Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne, Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney and Spark Arena in Auckland, all across late October to mid-November. Take That and the talent that also helped make Spiller's 'Groovejet (If This Ain't Love)' so memorable are also playing A Day on the Green, with Ricki-Lee also on the bill. On those shows, they'll head to Peter Lehmann Wines in the Barossa Valley in South Australia, then Bimbadgen in New South Wales' Hunter Valley and finally Sirromet Wines in Mount Cotton in Queensland. Still touring 34 years after first forming, but now a trio consisting of Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald — with fellow OG members Robbie Williams and Jason Orange no longer part of the group — boy band Take That are leading the trip Down Under fresh from releasing their latest album This Life in 2023. Certain to include 90s hits 'Back for Good', 'Pray' and 'Relight My Fire', these gigs will be their first in the region since 2016. Take That This Life Tour with Sophie Ellis-Bextor — Australia and New Zealand 2024 Dates: Wednesday, October 30 — RAC Arena, Perth Saturday, November 2 — A Day on the Green, Peter Lehmann Wines, Barossa Valley, with Ricki-Lee Wednesday, November 6 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Thursday, November 7 — Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney Saturday, November 9 — A Day on the Green, Bimbadgen, Hunter Valley, with Ricki-Lee Sunday, November 10 — A Day on the Green, Sirromet Wines, Mount Cotton, with Ricki-Lee Thursday, November 14 — Spark Arena, Auckland Take That and Sophie Ellis-Bextor are touring Australia and New Zealand in October and November 2024. Presales start at 3pm local time on Wednesday, February 7, with general sales from 1pm local time on Tuesday, February 13. Head to the tour and A Day on the Green websites for further details. Top image of Sophie Ellis-Bextor: Laura Lewis.
We have come a long way from segregation, but there are still lessons we have to learn about racial prejudice, even if it comes in comedic form. Delectable Shelter is a “black comedy about white terror”. It looks at five fortunate survivors of the apocalypse, each of whom is privileged and white. Their plans for the future go awry when they realise they may not be the only ones to survive, and that they may be sharing the earth on equal terms with those they thought were inferior. This play is a reportedly hilarious production that takes aim at the prejudices of Western society and provides an all-too-real look into the future. Brought to you by The Hayloft Project (Thyestes and Critical Stages and featuring the 1980s pop/classical music mash-ups of the inimitable Benny Davis (The Axis of Awesome), Delectable Shelter is a comedy that makes you think about a serious issue — one that isn't simply black and white.
Traipsing through a decaying apartment complex, getting his rotting teeth checked, and munching on roasted dog leg: all part of an ordinary day for Dr. Robert Laing (Tom Hiddleston). It wasn't always this way though. Just three months earlier, the surgeon was a fresh resident in the gleaming tower, filling his new home with boxes, meeting his neighbours, and talking about starting over with a clean slate. He soon discovers, however, that a strict hierarchy rules the titular structure, and when it starts to falter, so does anything resembling a civilised existence. All it takes is a power outage and an unauthorised dip in a communal swimming pool for classes to clash and all hell to break loose. Welcome to the world of High-Rise, with director Ben Wheatley and his regular screenwriter and co-editor Amy Jump bringing the dystopian vision of J.G. Ballard's cult 1975 novel to the screen. They're the perfect pair for the task, particularly in light of their previous output. Psychological horror Kill List, murderous black comedy Sightseers and hallucinatory historical thriller A Field in England all examined the bleak and brutal side of the human psyche. If those films aren't the ideal stepping stones towards exploring the mayhem of the masses when left to their own devices, then we don't know what are. The eponymous property's descent into anarchy runs in parallel to Laing's ascent through its social ranks, though the smooth, suave newcomer proves a friend to those who inhabit all levels. He mingles with seductive single mother Charlotte (Sienna Miller), who lives directly above him, as well as documentary filmmaker Wilder (Luke Evans) and his pregnant wife Helen (Elizabeth Moss), who dwell several stories below. Much to the dismay of the folks that consider themselves at the top of the pecking order, he also befriends Royal (Jeremy Irons), who created the block and resides in its penthouse. Just as Wheatley and Jump are the best off-screen team to make High-Rise scale the satirical heights its seeks, so too is Hiddleston the ultimate leading man for the job. Managing to lure the audience into the twisted tale while still making sure that his protagonist keeps a little distance from the disorder around him, the actor proves as fascinating a point of focus as the film's true main character: the building itself. Given the attention-grabbing antics that take place within its walls, that's saying something. Indeed, as the alcohol flows freely, the sex grows more debauched and petty arguments spiral rapidly out of control, everything plays out like a big, bold, busy bash that slowly turns oh-so-sour. With dance sequences aplenty and the increasingly frequent sight of ordinary life turning to the stuff of nightmares, Wheatley ensures that every frame of High-Rise looks the part as well. Whether crafting a quick-cut montage out of carnage and carnality, or switching between a sublime Portishead cover of ABBA's SOS and Clint Mansell's ominous score, the '70s-set film proves a slick but festering affair in its aesthetics and themes from start to finish. It's little wonder that it's also incredibly divisive. If you don't adore the film's deliciously dark and unashamedly scathing depiction of humanity, you'll probably abhor it.
Somewhere in Paris a marriage is unfolding. Portraying a nuanced and gripping relationship within the confines of a particularly ordinary Parisian apartment, this Red Stitch production simmers with guilt, betrayal and regret. Written by Pulitzer Prize nominated playwright Amy Herzog (After the Revolution, 4000 Miles), Belleville tells the story of Abby and Zach — American expats who have made the move to Paris to follow their increasingly disconnected dreams. In the space of a day, their marriage tips from domestically dysfunctional to intoxicatingly brutal. The shift is so subtle that we barely notice until it erupts in our face, despite the hints along the way. This subtlety is a testament to brilliant writing by Herzog as well as the well-paced performances by Red Stitch actors. It’s a chilly December, and Zach and Abby are approaching their "first grown up Christmas" overseas, away from family. Abby comes home to find Zach who, believing he was home alone, is at his computer "not checking emails". The awkwardness that ensues suggests a marriage not equipped to handle a relatively harmless indiscretion. As Zach proceeds to try and make up for the morning’s activities, Abby chats obsessively to their landlord Alioune about their wedding, her family and life in Paris. We discover, unbeknownst to Abby, that Zach has been mishandling their finances among other secrets. So begins his downward spiral, unfortunately taking Abby with him. Directed by Denny Lawrence, Belleville features outstanding performances by Christina O’Neill as Abby, and Paul Ashcroft as Zach. O’Neill is perfect as the nervous, anxiety-ridden wife. Her performance flawlessly shifts from a somewhat irritating and seemingly self-involved yoga instructor to a woman crippled by circumstance. Meanwhile Ashcroft’s impetuous character swings terrifyingly between endearing and pathological. The direction is understated and genuine, while the Americanisms of both characters are playful and faultless. Tariro Mavondo and Renaud Momtbrun are Alioune and Amina, the French-Senegalese landlords of the property. Their quiet performances providing much-needed contrast to the abrasive Americans and their destructive relationship that exists in the apartment next door. Despite a slow beginning (but one with a justified purpose), this is by no means a gentle play. The intimacy of the set and the theatre itself means we are cocooned with them, unable to escape. Belleville is superbly crafted from beginning to end. Image credit: Jodie Hutchinson.
Asian-style beers are often stereotyped as simple, easy drinking lagers that are low in alcohol content and great at hydrating in the heavy, humid heat. To be fair, many of the mainstream brews do match this generalisation — but Hong Kong is swiftly becoming a city to reckon with in the craft beer scene. The city is home to upward of ten local breweries, most of which have launched in the last two years alone. From black IPA to cherry saison, the local brewers are up on all of the current trends and styles — they're even trying out wackier brews, like Young Master Ales' oak infused Rye on Wood ale and Black Kite Brewery's Oh Bacon!, a smoked amber ale that truly does taste the part. Heading to Hong Kong? Here's what beers to drink and where to find them. WHERE TO DRINK The Hong Kong craft scene has had a massive push in the last two years with a slew of newcomers making their mark in the city. The movement has undoubtedly come from the craft beer boom in countries overseas (including here in Australia), but while a few are helmed by expats, many of these breweries have been organically started by locals. It's becoming a big part of drinking culture as a whole; the Hong Kong Beer Co., which originally opened in 1995, has recently relaunched as a craft beer brewery, and in 2012 the Hong Kong Craft Beer Association was established, which promotes and protects the industry as a whole. Local establishments are supporting this movement too — and while craft brewpubs may not be on every corner, it's pretty easy to stumble upon one. Even in the tourist-heavy Kowloon district lays Kowloon Taproom, a craft beer haven that sits unassumingly among your standard pubs and lounges. Their extensive beer list includes both local and imported craft, the most badass of which is City Brew's Lady IPA and Gentlemen Stout duo. These can be drunk either separately, or combined to create a black IPA — an impressive and delicious endeavour by one of Hong Kong's own. It's also an awesome feeling to drink a great beer while fighting gender stereotypes. In the trendier district of Mong Kok lays Tap: The Ale Project. With the modern allure of bright blue walls and a bar that looks more like a makeshift cafe, this spot certainly has the hipster aspect going for it. Opened in 2014 by self-proclaimed beer geeks, their 14 taps are dedicated to local and select import, with an even wider selection in bottles. They even offer growlers with a ceramic seal for takeaway. Both Tap and Kowloon Taproom are run by locals and are filled with locals almost every night, demonstrating the city's true dedication to the craft. WHAT TO DRINK If you're in Hong Kong, these are the beers you need to try. If you're not, well, most are not yet shipping internationally — but we expect big things to come, and can't wait to see these names on Sydney shelves. Gweilo Beer Mak's Beer Yardley Brothers Brewing City Brew Young Master Ales Black Kite Brewery Top image: Dollar Photo Club
There are all sorts of bad movies. Some, like Palo Alto, smack of pretention and self-indulgence. Others, like Grace of Monaco, are poorly written and incompetently made. Yet others, like The Rover, fail on a level that is more difficult to quantify, unable to deliver a satisfying experience in spite the qualities they possess. Then there are movies like Yves Saint Laurent. For them, the word 'bad' seems inappropriate, because it suggests that they are in any way noteworthy. A French-language biopic on the eponymous fashion icon — a man whose name and designs altered the world of luxury clothing forever — Yves Saint Laurent is so bland, conventional and boring that it barely registers as a movie at all. Actor-turned-director Jalil Lespert follows the biopic playbook to the inoffensive letter. Guillaume Gallienne plays Laurent's long-time lover and business partner, whose wistful voiceover gives a rose-coloured tint to the already obsequious treatment. YSL himself is played by the gangly Pierre Niney; the competent enough actor saddled with a totally uninteresting role. And therein lies the film's biggest problem: Laurent's arc — from youthful prodigy to cocksure rebel to lonely, introverted genius — is one that we've seen played out literally hundreds of times before. So we watch, with utter indifference, as he alienates his friends and turns an industry on its head. Or so we're told, anyway. Thinly drawn side characters flit in and out as the years go by, each there to remind us that Laurent is changing the game. At a certain point, you just have to take their word for it. To be fair, even a layman can recognise the beauty of his designs, which Lespert trots out in montage after golden-hued montage. For fashionistas, at least, the film gives you plenty nice to look at. But clothes, despite what the old adage says, do not make the man. Laurent's work was remarkable, but his life, unfortunately, was not. So we're left with a film that is purely surface level, and that fades from your memory the second the end credits role. In some ways, you actually wish it were worse, because at least then there'd be something more to say about it. If nothing else, Grace of Monaco was fun to make fun of. Yves Saint Laurent doesn't even give you that. https://youtube.com/watch?v=-ec-DQ_7EUM
If you've ever spent hours falling down the wildlife and nature video rabbit hole online late at night, this one's for you. National Geographic's Symphony for Our World will combine the best of the footage from the organisation's 130-year archives with a live orchestral performance, synchronising the triumphant moments of both music and nature under one spectacle. And, that soundtrack will feature a Hans Zimmer-flavoured score and feature a live choir as well. The natural history footage will be drawn from years of past images, drawing from Nat Geo's shots from all over the world. The accompanying symphony will be created by Bleeding Fingers Music, featuring the work of composers such as the legendary Hans Zimmer, as well as Austin Fray and Andrew Christie. Just like the recent Planet Earth II Live in Concert, Zimmer's score especially will make you feel things you didn't know you could about animals you'll never meet. A five-part composition that'll tour Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, Symphony for Our World will take the audience on a journey from the sea, along the coastlines, across the land, through the mountains and then finally into the sky, with differing orchestral movements for each world environment. It's the story of our planet, but brought to life in a different way — so why not get out of the house and off YouTube and go see some fully immersive nature.
This autumn, parts of Alice Springs and its surrounds will shine brighter than ever before, when the region's fourth annual Parrtjima - A Festival In Light delivers its most expansive program yet. Previously held in September, the festival will this year run from Friday, April 5 to Sunday, April 14. The free ten-day public celebration of Indigenous arts, culture and storytelling is perhaps best known for its dazzling light installations. And, this year, Parrtjima — the nation's first indigenous festival of its kind — will feature six of these luminous displays, gracing both Alice Springs Desert Park Precinct and Alice Springs Todd Mall. As 2019 is the UN's Year of Indigenous Languages, the festival will also have a linguistic edge. With a theme of 'Language Expressions', the program's lineup will feature many artworks, talks and workshops focused on Central Australia's many Indigenous languages. [caption id="attachment_706524" align="alignnone" width="1920"] James Horan[/caption] While Alice Spring's CBD will light up with new installations and events, just out of town, tourism and conservation facility Alice Springs Desert Park will also come alive, awash with light from 6.30–10.30pm each night of the festival. Once again, a huge artwork will transform a 2.5-kilometre stretch of the majestic MacDonnell Ranges. Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in art and storytelling as part of Grounded, where installations are projected onto the earth accompanied by a striking soundscape. The light installations are backed by a jam-packed program of dance, music, workshops and talks, sharing stories and celebrating First Nations' culture. It's a nice supplement to the area's Field of Light installation, which has been extended until 2020. Parrtjima – A Festival in Light runs from April 5–14, 2019 around Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. For more information, visit the festival website. Images: James Horan.
These days, a free tertiary education is something of a myth — your parents might have got it, you know some other countries offer it, but you've certainly given up all hope of getting any sort of affordable qualifications (particularly with the prospect of fee deregulation). But in May the Victorian Government released its 2018 budget and it included some surprisingly good news: from next year, it will be free to complete selected TAFE courses in Victoria. As announced by Premier Daniel Andrews on Facebook and outlined in the Victorian Budget 18/19 papers, the State Government will put $172 million towards covering course fees for 30 'priority' TAFE courses and 18 pre-apprenticeship courses from January 1, 2019. These courses are varied, running from a Diploma of Nursing to an Advanced Diploma in Accounting to a Certificate IV in Mental Health. Some can cost thousands of dollars to complete, so this will make a huge difference to prospective students who can't afford to foot the bill usually associated with studying. To be eligible, you'll have to be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or a permanent Australian resident and fit one of the extra criteria. This may be you if you're under 20 years old, if you will be upskilling (that is, enrolling in a higher qualification than you've previously attained), or you're a Victorian who requires additional support — i.e., you're unemployed or have recently been retrenched. If you're looking to change careers, you may also be considered for one of the free places. The full details on eligibility have been published here. If you're interested in enrolling, you can get more details here or call the government's TAFE and Training line on 13 18 23. Updated: July 22, 2018.
The humble dimmy will make its glorious and heroic return to Welcome to Brunswick this May, as part of the sixth annual Dimmy and Dumpling Festival at the inner-north food truck park. Whether you're partial to a fried wonton or crispy gyoza, piping hot pierogi or stuffed bao bun, you'll find them at Welcome to Brunswick on Saturday, May 11. From 12–10pm, this inner-north favourite is welcoming a lineup of D&D-serving eateries. You can expect classic fish-and-chip shop dimmys, Japanese gyozas, fluffy bao buns, as well as a range of vegan and gluten-free options. The food truck lineup includes favourites such as Dimmy Su, Bao Melbourne and Doin' Dumplings. Entry is free. And although we don't recommend giving human food to dogs, your pet pupper is welcome to come along while you scoff down all of the dim sims and dumplings you can handle. Top images: Unsplash
Here's three things you need to know about the just-released full trailer for Tiger King 2 — and three reasons that'll likely get you watching the Netflix docuseries' second season. Firstly, Joe Exotic once again protests his innocence, which is thoroughly expected. Secondly, a new face pops up to make the same statement, backing it up with "I am an Eastern European bitch, so I cannot be wrong." And thirdly, Jeff Lowe, who took over Exotic's park, claims to now have "more money than god" thanks to the program's first-season success. Obviously, when Tiger King 2 arrives on Wednesday, November 17, it'll put all of those snippets in context. It also promises to take viewers on quite the chaotic ride — again. The first series, Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness, might now feel like an early-pandemic novelties (it's what we all watched when lockdowns first hit and panic-buying toilet paper became a thing, after all), but it seems that we aren't done with cool cats and kittens just just yet. As a heap of news headlines have tracked since March 2020, this story just keeps getting wilder — so there's plenty more Joe Exotic and Carole Baskin-related details for this follow-up to cover. Indeed, when Tiger King became a huge hit, another season of the docuseries itself was floated almost right away. Then, back in September, the streamer confirmed that Tiger King 2 would surface before this year is over. Expect more details about Exotic's efforts to clear his name, Baskin's ownership of his former zoo, and what Lowe has been up to since the first season hit — and about fellow zoo-owner Tim Stark, ex-Exotic and Lowe associate Allen Glover, and Exotic's former employee James Garretson as well. This season doesn't come with a subtitle this time, but clearly it'll serve up more murder-related details, more mayhem and more madness. Tiger King 2 will also arrive before any of the other projects that've leapt on the Joe Exotic bandwagon over the past two years, endeavouring to capitalise upon the worldwide obsession with him, Baskin and the duo's strange intertwined tale. So, in the near future, you'll also be watching a dramatised series with Kate McKinnon as Baskin that's been shooting in Australia this year — but you'll be watching Netflix's continuation of the story first. Check out the full trailer for Tiger King 2 below: Tiger King 2 start streaming via Netflix on Wednesday, November 17.
Combi is all about health. Sitting in a small shopfront in Elwood, these guys have lines out the door on the weekends, so go mid-week if you can swing it. The menu reads like a health nut's dream with cold pressed juices, smoothies, kombucha on tap, acai bowls, sprouted breads, house-made nut milks, raw cakes and treats to die for. If you like your indulgences in liquid form go for the Velvet Cacao smoothie, made with raw cacao, cacao nibs, berries, coconut flesh, cinnamon, banana, raw chocolate fermented protein powder and house made nut milk. For something on the savoury side, you can grab a raw pizza made of dehydrated almond, sunflower and flaxseed topped with raw kale pesto, shredded vegetables and raw cashew cheese. And don't forget to take home a slice of the raw caramel slice. Seriously. Do it.
Down Whitehart Lane, the good times have officially been rolling for six years — and that means it's time for its famed resident container bar to fire up for some good old-fashioned birthday celebrations. Yep, Whitehart Bar is turning six and it's marking the occasion with a rollicking party on Saturday, April 29. It's free to head along, with the festivities kicking off from 2pm and running till late. Those all-important party tunes will come courtesy of the Strictly Vinyl DJs (aka the power partnership of Jimmy James and Jnett), as well as genre-jumping bassist Horatio Luna. Your peepers are in for just as much of a treat, with live art shows and striking visuals by Simbiotic Vision, plus some dazzling aerial performances taking over the space. Meanwhile, a pop-up bar from the minds behind drinks fest I Hart Agave will be slinging a stack of boozy treats to complement Whitehart's usual beverage offering. And once you've worked up an appetite on the dance floor, Goldieboy will have you sorted with a menu of his beloved burgers flying from the kitchen. Images: Duncographic.
New York has come a long way since Sex and The City's Carrie bought a cupcake from Magnolia Bakery and the world went into hysteria over the cute (but sort of bland — sorry cupcake lovers) little baked treats. Thanks to rock 'n' roll pastry chefs like Christina Tosi and Dominique Ansel — and Brooklyn's sweet artisan revival — the desserts of New York City are now competing with Paris for the title of global sweet heavyweight, and calling die-hard dessert fans from around the world to the bright lights of the city. In my three-month sweet-eating season in NYC, I ate over 373 desserts — so boiling down the selection to just five is a little tough. But if you're heading to the city soon, this is a good place to begin. And just to be clear, I'm a fan of Magnolia Bakery — I'd just recommend you order the banana pudding. Now that is worth making a fuss over. BOOZY PIES FROM BUTTER & SCOTCH NYC excels in Southern-style pies and the best ones can be found in Brooklyn, where producers combine the flakiest pastry with produce-driven flavours. Must-visits are Four & Twenty Blackbirds and The Blue Stove, but for an extra dash of fun, head to Butter & Scotch. It's a bakery and bar, and almost every sweet is made with a generous slug of liquor, from boozy shakes to the extraordinary bourbon ginger pecan pie. CHOCOLATE RUGELACH FROM BREADS BAKERY Back in the '90s, a new wave of bakeries changed the game with organic flours, age-old techniques and seasonal produce, and Sullivan Street Bakery and The City Bakery are still among the city's finest today. Breads Bakery is a relative newcomer, but just as tempting. Nutella babka may be the poster child — and rightly so, it's deliriously good — but don't leave without a chocolate rugelach: a bite-sized, light-as-air, croissant-shaped pastry laminated with chocolate ganache. Actually, make that five. CORNHUSK MERINGUE FROM COSME Today, New York is enjoying the rise of specialty sweet producers, from rice pudding and cannoli to soft serve — but that's not to say there's no innovation in restaurants. Case in point: Cosme. It's the fine dining restaurant of renowned Mexican chef Enrique Olvera, and one of the city's darlings for its good vibe and modern interpretation of south-of-the-border cuisine. Then, there's the finale: corn husk meringue with corn mousse. One of the most Instagrammed desserts of 2015 is barely sweet, with notes of charred corn husk and burnt vanilla, and is French-meets-Latino heaven. [caption id="attachment_628623" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Doughnut Plant[/caption] CAKE DOUGHNUTS FROM DOUGHNUT PLANT No trip to New York is complete without a doughnut. From Dominique Ansel's world famous cronut to Dough's mega glazed yeasted doughies, the selection will blow your socks off. If you had to choose just one, make it a Blackout, carrot cake or tres leches cake doughnut from Doughnut Plant. Inside the soft-crumb ring is a secret core of flavoured cream; it's unlike any doughnut you've tried before. SOFT SERVE FROM BIG GAY ICE CREAM NYC's ice cream offering is second to none, and you could fill an entire trip eating your way through the rambunctious flavours, epic sundaes, bad-ass floats and OTT ice cream sandwiches alone. Put Ample Hills, Van Leeuwen, Morgenstern's, Davey's and OddFellows on your list. For soft serve, however, there's only one contender: Big Gay, which elevates the creamy goodness with immaculate local dairy and grown-up flavours. Go the Salty Pimp with a dark, salty choc shell and Apple Gobbler, where apple pie meets an ice cream sundae. Yasmin Newman is a food and travel writer, photographer and presenter. For the full epic list of Yasmin's sweet adventures through New York, get your hands on her part-travel journal, part-cookbook, Desserts of New York (And How to Eat Them All) — it's published by Hardie Grant and is available in bookstores and online now.
However you spend the 9-to-5 grind, including singing Dolly Parton songs in your head, everyone's working hours are always better with a pet. Had an average meeting? Rover will always be there for you. Stressed about a deadline? Patch's purring will help soothe whatever ails you. Need to look at something other than a screen for a bit? Whatever kind of animal companion you have, they're perfect for exactly that. Most of the above situations lend themselves to working from home, as we've all enjoyed over the past few years — but if you're back in the office, or at least out of your house and away from Zoom calls, you mightn't have a furry, feathered or scaly friend on hand to help brighten up your day. Well, usually. Today, Friday, June 24, just happens to be National Take Your Dog To Work Day. Yes, there's a day for everything. Yes, you still have time to bring Fido with you today. And, to help — because wrangling an animal on public transport isn't necessarily easy — Uber is doing discounted rides for everyone taking their pets into the office. The half-price fare comes courtesy of Uber Pet, which launched in Australia back in 2020. To grab the deal, you'll need to travel between 7am–7pm today — and, if you do so with your pet for company, you'll nab 50-percent off your trip up to a total of $30 off. The discount is valid everywhere that Uber Pet is available in Australia, which covers Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Canberra, Newcastle, Hobart, Cairns, Sunshine Coast, Geelong, Wollongong and Darwin. There is a $6–7 'pet fee' on top of the standard ride fare, though. To get the discount, just go to the Uber app, click on your account in the bottom right corner, select 'wallet' and then scroll down till you hit 'add promo code'. That code: FURBABY. (What else would it be?) Each person can only use the code twice, but that'll get you and Max to work and back. And yes, your day just got better, obviously — for you and your fluffball. Uber Pet is doing half-price rides from 7am–7pm today, Friday, June 24. For more information, head to the Uber website.
We know what you're thinking. 'Low-carb' clothing? Are you serious? Nope nope nope. Call shenanigans, upturn tables, get on the tweets. Reformation's brand new ten-piece fashion line is indeed called the Low-Carb collection. But rather than being some form of low carbohydrate fashion (somehow), the eco-friendly fashion label has created ten items with a severely low carbon footprint. Yep, 'low carb'. We know, it's a straight-up, highly effective clickbaity fashion campaign. But one with a truly good heart. Created for yesterday's international Earth Day, Reformation's new collection intends to educate fashion lovers about the environmental impacts of their threads. Each Low-Carb item has an eco-gauge (or RefScale) that comes with it, allowing customers to read up on the garment's effect on the environment — we're talking manufacturing methods, impact on CO2 levels and water use for a start. The eco-gauge can be found next to each item on the Reformation website, so you can read up before you buy. In fact, Reformation makes clothes from just three different types of materials, new sustainable fabrics, repurposed vintage clothing and rescued deadstock fabric from fashion houses that over-ordered. Plus, the collection's pretty damn crisp. Sustainable fashion is becoming more and more en vogue, with Pharell launching his recent denim line for G-Star made from plastic bottles pulled from the ocean, to Melbourne's recently founded Hessian magazine, which focuses on eco-friendly fashion designers, collections and practices. Even if it's a little gimmicky, we're all for supporting sustainability-meets-fashion projects — depsite the clickbaity headlines. Via Who What Wear. Take five lessons in sustainable fashion with Hessian magazine over here.
“They are built on the idea of leisure, dreams, escape and entertainment,” says artist Anna Carey, reflecting on the connections between the three cities that occupy her exhibition Blue Angel. “The spaces were created to be reinvented — built for a good time not a long time. For some, these cities were a place of temporary escape, but many have made the escape permanent.” Anna Carey takes photographs of her home town, the Gold Coast, as well as the architecturally similar Los Angeles and Las Vegas, where she recently spent time travelling. The catch? She also builds the environments in the photographs, making finicky cardboard dioramas of buildings pulled from memory and her imagination. All three cities, having featured in countless films, hold various associations according to our collective memories and interpretations. We feel as though we know them well, and yet, how many of us can claim an intimate knowledge? Carey explains, “The art making becomes a process of overlapping multiple memories to create hybrid spaces drawn from and common to all three cities ... Even though the cities are very similar, each has a unique culture, expressed through its urban landscape. "The Gold Coast lifestyle is occupied with the outdoors because of its subtropical, natural landscape ... Los Angeles is similar because of the hills and the ocean; however, it is a much larger city and has a massive entertainment industry. Las Vegas is a place to indulge, with a variety of shows, spas, restaurants and gambling.” Influenced by an array of artists, “past and present”, Carey identifies a select few that she comes back to continually, finding “something new in the work every time”. These include Ed Ruscha, who photographs Los Angeles obsessively, using his camera as a means of documentation; Francys Alys, who “creates urban fictions”, attempting to “reflect the rhythm and narrative” of Mexico City; and Rachel Whiteread, because “her work House is genius”. Carey’s Blue Angel exhibition is on display at Sydney's Artereal (747 Darling Street, Rozelle; (02) 9818 7473) from May 7-31, 2014.
When Disney+ made its way into the world back in 2019, it gave viewers — including folks in Australia and New Zealand — access to a huge range of Disney, Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars and National Geographic movies and shows. What it didn't do is bring Hulu, which the Mouse House owns the majority stake in, to audiences Down Under. And, with Disney+ focused on family-friendly fare, it didn't deliver the kinds of series and films that Hulu screens, either. Hulu still isn't heading our way. But, come early 2021, Disney+ is expanding to include a new section that's basically an international equivalent of Hulu. It's called Star, it'll launch on Tuesday, February 23, and it'll screen "an additional 1000 unique titles under the new Star brand in the first year", according to the announcement at Disney's big 2020 Investor Day on Friday, December 11. It's also set to premiere 35 brand new series in 2021, too. Disney hasn't listed exactly what Australia and New Zealand audiences will be able to watch via Star — but it did reveal that Star will feature "a robust collection of general entertainment movies, television, documentaries, and more, along with Star-branded new exclusive originals and local productions being created for the service". It'll be drawing upon Disney's studios, such as Disney Television Studios, FX, 20th Century Studios, 20th Television and Touchstone, and will also feature local programming specific to each region. https://twitter.com/Disney/status/1337155471422189569 Star won't feature everything that Hulu does, because plenty of Hulu's series and films pop up elsewhere Down Under — like The Handmaid's Tale, for instance. That said, it's safe to presume that some of the rights deals that deliver Hulu content to other networks and streaming platforms in Australia and New Zealand might change when Star hits, moving where you can catch certain flicks and programs in the process. When Star launches, it'll also become available in Europe and Canada, both of which already have access to Disney+. The Mouse House will also launch Disney+ including Star in Singapore on the same date, then look to roll out in Eastern Europe, South Korea, Japan and Hong Kong across the rest of 2021. And, as you might've already guessed, Disney+'s expansion to include Star will come with a price increase. Australian subscriptions will go up to AU$11.99 per month or AU$119.99 per year, while New Zealand's will cost NZ$12.99 per month or AU$129.99 per year. Star will join Disney+ in Australia and New Zealand on Tuesday, February 23, with Disney+ subscriptions costing AU$11.99 per month or AU$119.99 per year in Australia, and NZ$12.99 per month or AU$129.99 per year in New Zealand, from that date.
Port Macquarie's Festival of the Sun has been running for 16 years, and the boutique summer music festival is still bringing the goods. The lineup for this December has just been released and it looks like it'll be another doozy. Methyl Ethel and Briggs will headline the three-day fest, with Julia Jacklin, Trophy Eyes, Lime Cordiale and Baker Boy lending their voices too. Amyl and the Sniffers, Tired Lion, I Know Leopard, Nathan Ball and Good Doogs — among others — round out what looks like it'll be a big couple of days of music, with more acts still to be announced. The camping festival is also — excitingly — BYO, so you don't need to spend your hard-earned cash on overpriced UDLs. Alongside the lineup of live music, there will also be a heap of food trucks (serving everything from burgers to vegan fare), silent discos and silent comedy. The festival is themed each year, and this year it's the "ghouls and unicorns" edition — looks like it's time to whip out your Halloween costumes and anything you own that's rainbow-coloured. Festival of the Sun runs from Friday, December 13 to Sunday, December 15. Tickets go on sale at 10am on Thursday, August 8. FESTIVAL OF THE SUN 2018 LINEUP Methyl Ethel Briggs Julia Jacklin Trophy Eyes Lime Cordiale Baker Boy Amyl and the Sniffers Tired Lion I Know Leopard Nathan Ball (UK) Good Doogs Genesis Owusu Milan Ring Arno Faraji JEFFE Tasman Keith Stevie Jean FRITZ Bakers Eddy VOIID Surf Trash Georgia June Johnny Hunter The Buoys Garage Sale
This time last year, the world had gone more than 12 months without seeing a new Marvel movie. Just a few months back, no one had used the words 'squid' and 'game' right next to each other unless they were talking about cooking up a particularly impressive seafood dish. But 2021 has proven the year of both caped crusaders and a certain South Korean Netflix phenomenon — and we all have the Google search history to prove it. With the year coming to a close, the technology behemoth has revealed exactly what we've all been scouring the web for in 2021, and its film and TV lists provide quite the snapshot of everyone's viewing. When we were all eager to watch a flick, we went big, with franchises, familiar names and super-famous faces defining the top ten most-searched movies. When we were staying in — it was another year filled with lockdowns, after all — we threw plenty of love towards streaming platforms. Topping the film list: Eternals, Chloé Zhao's addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and her first film after winning this year's Best Director Oscar for the immensely dissimilar Nomadland. It was closely followed by the long-delayed Black Widow, Timothée Chalamet-starring sci-fi remake Dune, more Marvel again via Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and Netflix's heist-fuelled action flick Red Notice. Next came the new Australian-shot version of Mortal Kombat, the Emma Stone-led Cruella and the return of Michael Myers in horror sequel Halloween Kills, as well as monster melee Godzilla vs Kong and straight-to-streaming zombie film Army of the Dead. When it came to the globe's binge-viewing for the year, Squid Game came in at number one — likely not only because it's all anyone seemed to be watching in September and October, but because we all became so obsessed with it that, yes, we were all searching for every piece of information about it that we could find. It was followed by Bridgerton's period soapiness, WandaVision's trippy superhero dramas, Karate Kid spinoff series Cobra Kai and more Marvel (yes, again) thanks to Loki. Also placing in the top ten: Netflix's Sweet Tooth and Lupin, the latter of which probably benefited from dropping its episodes in two batches; the streamer's Ginny and Georgia; South Korean series True Beauty; and Big Brother Brazil 2021. If you haven't watched any of the above yet, consider this a catch-up list, too. For further details about Google's 2021 trend lists, head to the Google Trends website. Top image: Noh Juan, Netflix.
Some actors have all the luck — or, in the case of Matthew Fox, they seem to navigate all of the on-screen quests for survival. After riding Lost's many, many ups and downs between 2004–10, the actor is returning to the small screen for the first time in 12 years in new five-part miniseries Last Light. And although he isn't stranded on a mysterious island here, and no one seems to be spouting a set pattern of numbers in the show's just-dropped first trailer, things look mighty tense and chaotic anyway. The OG Party of Five star plays Andy Yeats, a petro-chemist who gets stuck in the fallout from a problem with the world's oil supply. Actually, to be exact, the entire planet faces the same struggle, with transport stopping, deliveries ceasing as well, and law and order disintegrating fast. If the tale sounds familiar, and not just in a general apocalyptic way, that's because Last Light is based on Andy Scarrow's 2007 book of the same name. The page-to-streaming adaptation is due to hit Stan from Thursday, September 8, and shot everywhere from Prague and Abu Dhabi to Paris. Alongside Fox, the series stars Joanne Froggatt (Downton Abbey: A New Era) as Andy's wife Elena — plus Alyth Ross (Traces) as his teenage daughter Laura and TV first-timer Taylor Foy as his son Sam. Last Light focuses on the entire family's story, as Andy tries to return home from the Middle East just as his worst fears are coming true, Elena and Sam are in Paris, and Laura is home alone in London. The cast also spans Amber Rose Revah (The Punisher), Victor Alli (Belfast) and Hakeem Jomah (Rashash), as well as Tom Wlaschiha — aka Dmitri in the fourth season of Stranger Things, and Jaqen H'ghar in Game of Thrones. Behind the camera, director Dennie Gordon (Hunters, Jack Ryan) does the honours across all five episodes. And if it feels like it's been quite some time since you've seen Fox on-screen, you're right. He only has five films to his name since Lost wrapped up — the last in 2015. Check out the trailer for Last Light below: Last Light will be available to stream via Stan from Thursday, September 8.
East Malvern's humble Central Park isn't quite as grand as the one in NYC, but it'll certainly be tastier with the East Malvern Food and Wine Festival coming to its green lawns on Sunday, November 18. The weather will (surely) be warming up by then and it'll be a wise call to spend a day in the park — especially when you add 20 Victorian wineries and a handful of breweries into the mix. Go along to taste vino from Bendigo, Rutherglen and Heathcote regions, beers from Cheltenham's Bad Shepherd Brewing Co. and the Yarra Valley's Coldstream Brewery, and taste till your heart is content and you've forgotten tomorrow is Monday. Four Pillars will also be there slinging G&Ts, Mr Black will be shaking espresso martinis and there will be a bar dedicated to Aperol spritzes. Food-wise, there'll be snacks from Riserva, as well as pop-ups from Nepal Dining, Richmond Oysters and an ice cream stall where you can really go all out and treat yourself. You'll be able to stock up on artisanal produce and, if you or your mates have kids, you can send them to a magician masterclass. Meanwhile, your other (furrier) kids can score some doggie treats from the Canine Wellness Truck. The event is free to attend — you'll just need to buy your food and wine as you go.
Remember Miami Horror? Back in 2010, the Melbourne electronic-pop band set our hearts alight with their excellent debut LP Illumination. Their hit single from the same album, 'Sometimes', has been on rotation on summer playlists ever since. It's been four years since then and Miami Horror are finally returning in grand comeback style. During their hiatus, they've been busy living it up in sunny Los Angeles and putting the finishing touches on their forthcoming sophomore album due later this year. In the meantime, they; sneakily released the catchy 'Wild Motion (Set It Free)' — the perfect anthem for lazy days lounging by the pool. To promote the new single, Miami Horror are heading back to the homeland with a massive eight-day headlining tour — only their second since 2011. To amp it up a notch, they're promising to build a whole new projection-based light show with hand-drawn images and and splashes of animated colour. Who knows where the band will disappear to next, so catch them live before they're off again. Supported by Thief + Tora. https://youtube.com/watch?v=IolDbdoQbaM
Four days, one coastal hotspot, and oh-so-much to see, eat, drink and do: that's your latest excuse to treat yourself to a trip to Byron Bay. Back in July, it was announced that the seaside New South Wales town was getting a brand-new festival that's all about food and culture — and now that event, Caper Byron Bay Our Food and Culture Festival, has announced its program. Firstly, yes, the fest has undergone a name change. Rather than just lapping up all that the region has to offer under its old title Revel, the new moniker now encourages attendees to go a-frolicking. But other than that one switch, the idea is still the same, spanning eating, drinking, checking out art, listening to tunes and being merry in gorgeous surroundings. Taking place between Thursday, November 10–Sunday, November 13, Caper boasts a hefty culinary component as curated by Chef David Moyle, who has been Chief of Food at Harvest Newrybar since 2020. Highlights include bottomless oysters and bellinis at Balcony Bar & Oyster Co, natural wine-fuelled degustations at Supernatural, distillery tours at Brookie's Gin and a sourdough workshop with Bread Social. Soon-to-open newcomer Bar Heather is doing a five-course dinner with Palisa Anderson, while 100 Mile Table at Stone & Wood is hosting a backyard barbecue — and Treehouse on Belongil is opting for a mix of beats, bubbles and brunch. A farm-to-table feast with The Farm and Three Blue Ducks and The Hut's Spanish fiesta are also on the bill, alongside pop-up yum cha — with the Brunswick Picture House being taken over by Melbourne Chinatown diner ShanDong MaMa on the Saturday and Sunday. Also making the journey, but from Brisbane: Louis Tikaram from Stanley, who'll be part of a cabaret takeover at the same space. Another standout: celebrating embrace Bundjalung Nation's Indigenous culture via a walk on Country tour led by Explore Byron Bay owner and Arakwal woman Delta Kay, then a five-course lunch curated by Karkalla chef and owner Mindy Woods. An 'anti-bad vibes circle' with OneWave Fluro Friday; free exhibitions at Yeah, Nice Gallery, art salon Gallery 7, Gallery 3 and ThomGallery; and horse-riding followed by brunch or lunch at Zephyr Shack are also on the wide-ranging agenda, with more than 30 events filling out the program If you're keen to see where the day takes you in-between the official activities, head to the Caper Village, aka a massive food, beverage, music and art precinct that's set to sprawl across the whole North Byron Hotel in the Byron Arts and Industrial Estate. It'll host live music, DJs and art installations, as well as workshops, panels and talks. Caper Byron Bay Our Food and Culture Festival runs from Thursday, November 10–Sunday, November 13 at various locations around Byron Bay and the Northern Rivers region. For more information, head to the festival's website. Images: Jess Kearney.
American photojournalist John Stanmeyer has been named winner of the 57th Annual World Press Photo Contest. The competition's international judging panel named Stanmeyer's photo, 'Signal', both the overall winner and first prize in the contemporary issues category. Shot for National Geographic Magazine on the shores of Djibouti, the image (shown above) captures African migrants holding up their phones, hoping to tap into cheap signal from neighbouring Somalia. En route to new lives in Europe and the Middle East, they're trying to make contact with loved ones elsewhere. Commenting on the winning image, judge Jillian Edelstein said, "It's a photo that is connected to so many other stories — it opens up discussions about technology, globalisation, migration, poverty, desperation, alienation, humanity. It's a very sophisticated, powerfully nuanced image. It is so subtly done, so poetic, yet instilled with meaning, conveying issues of great gravity and concern in the world today.” The competition received over 98,000 submissions and granted prizes to 53 photographers of 25 nationalities across categories ranging from sports to nature to world news. Following controversy last year, stricter image manipulation guidelines apparently saw 8 percent of entries disqualified. Winning photographs will now tour over 45 countries as an international exhibition. See the full gallery of winners at the World Press Photo website. 3rd Prize in Daily Life Category: "Street Dogs," Julie McGuire, UK 1st prize in Spot News (singles) category: Typhoon Survivors, Philippe Lopez, France 2nd prize in Spot News (stories) category: Massacre at Westgate Mall, Tyler Hicks, USA 3rd Prize in Staged Portraits (singles) category: Chiwetel Ejlofor, Nadav Kander, UK 1st Prize in General News (singles) category: Temporary Accommodation, Alessandro Penso, Italy Third Prize in Sports Action (singles) category: Forehand Foreward, Al Bello, USA 2nd Prize in Nature (singles) category: A flock of Guillemots, Markus Varsvuo, Finland 1st prize in Contemporary Issues (stories) category: A Portrait of Domestic Violence, Sara Naomi Lewkowicz 3rd Prize in Observed Portraits (singles) category: A Traditional Berber Bride, Pau Barrena, Spain 2nd prize in Sports Feature (singles) category: Kite Skier on the Mountain, Anastas Tarpanov, Bulgaria
The nominations for Hollywood’s most dubious honours have officially been announced. For more than three decades, the Golden Raspberry Awards, better known as the Razzies, have named and shamed the year’s worst motion pictures, with previous winners including The Love Guru, Showgirls and Twilight: Breaking Dawn Part 2. Dropping one day ahead of the Oscar nominees, this most recent batch of contenders includes several box office favourites and a multitude of A-list names. It just goes to prove the age-old expression: everyone’s a critic. Leading the shortlist with seven nominations is Transformers: Age of Extinction. In addition to a Worst Picture nomination, the robo-rumpus earned nods for Worst Sequel, Worst Screenplay, Worst Supporting Actor (Kelsey Grammer), Worst Supporting Actress (Nicola Peltz) and Worst Screen Combo (Any Two Robots and/or Actors). Director Michael Bay has also picked up his fifth Worst Director nomination, which must surely be some kind of record. Hopefully the film’s $1bn gross helped to soften the blow. Close behind Transformers with six nominations each is the Kellan Lutz action vehicle The Legend of Hercules and Kirk Cameron’s ‘faith-based’ holiday comedy Saving Christmas. The latter film enjoys a rare 0% ranking on Rotten Tomatoes and appears to have skipped Australia altogether. Rounding out the Worst Picture category is the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles reboot as well as the Nicolas Cage supernatural thriller Left Behind. Cameron Diaz leads the acting ‘honours’ with three nominations: Worst Actress in The Other Woman and Sex Tape, and Worst Supporting Actress in Annie. Charlize Theron, meanwhile, is up for Worst Actress for her role in A Million Ways to Die in the West, along with a Worst Screen Combo nod she shares with her co-star Seth MacFarlane. MacFarlane is also nominated for Worst Director and Worst Actor, competing in the latter category against Cameron, Lutz and Cage as well as Blended star Adam Sandler. Here’s hoping at least one of them has the good humour to accept their award in person, ala Halle Berry and Sandra Bullock. Of course, there are some who might accuse of The Razzies of simply shooting fish in a barrel. Presumably, that’s why they’ve included a new category designed to celebrate actors who’ve managed to pull themselves out of the muck. Contenders for this year’s ‘Redeemer’ Award include Ben Affleck for going ‘from Gigli to Argo and Gone Girl’ and six-time Razzie nominee Keanu Reeves for his role in the critically acclaimed action movie John Wick. The winners of the Golden Raspberries will be announced on the eve of the Academy Awards in February. We’ve included the full list of nominees below. THE 35TH ANNUAL RAZZIE NOMINEES: Worst Picture Kirk Cameron’s Saving Christmas Left Behind The Legend of Hercules Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Transformers: Age of Extinction Worst Director Michael Bay, Transformers: Age Of Extinction Darren Doane, Kirk Cameron’s Saving Christmas Renny Harlin, The Legend of Hercules Jonathan Liebesman, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Seth MacFarlane, A Million Ways to Die in the West Worst Actor Kirk Cameron, Kirk Cameron’s Saving Christmas Nicolas Cage, Left Behind Kellan Lutz, The Legend of Hercules Seth MacFarlane, A Million Ways to Die in the West Adam Sandler, Blended Worst Actress Drew Barrymore, Blended Cameron Diaz, The Other Woman and Sex Tape Melissa McCarthy, Tammy Charlize Theron, A Million Ways to Die in the West Gaia Weiss, The Legend of Hercules Worst Supporting Actor Mel Gibson, Expendables 3 Kelsey Grammer, Expendables 3, Legends of Oz, Think Like A Man Too and Transformers: Age of Extinction Shaquille O’Neal, Blended Arnold Schwarzenegger, Expendables 3 Kiefer Sutherland, Pompeii Worst Supporting Actress Cameron Diaz, Annie Megan Fox, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Nicola Peltz, Transformers: Age of Extinction Susan Sarandon, Tammy Brigitte Ridenour, Kirk Cameron’s Saving Christmas Worst Remake, Rip-Off or Sequel Annie Atlas Shrugged 3: Who Is John Galt? The Legend of Hercules Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Transformers: Age Of Extinction Worst Screen Combo Any Two Robots, Actors (or Robotic Actors), Transformers: Age of Extinction Kirk Cameron & His Ego, Kirk Cameron’s Saving Christmas Cameron Diaz & Jason Segel, Sex Tape Kellan Lutz & Either His Abs, His Pecs or His Glutes, The Legend of Hercules Seth McFarlane & Charlize Theron, A Million Ways to Die in the West Worst Screenplay Kirk Cameron’s Saving Christmas, Left Behind Sex Tape Transformers: Age of Extinction Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Razzie Redeemer Award Ben Affleck, From Razzie ‘Winner’ for Gigli to Oscar darling for Argo and Gone Girl Jennifer Aniston, From 4-time Razzie nominee to SAG award nominee for Cake Mike Myers, From Razzie ‘Winner’ for Love Guru to Docu Director of Supermensch Keanu Reeves, From 6-time Razzie nominee to John Wick Kristen Stewart, From Razzie ‘Winner’ for Twilight to the art house hit Camp X-Ray
Over a hot, tumultuous summer, a group of teenagers struggle with love, sex and betrayal. Like an artsy Australian version of an episode of Skins, writer-director Rhys Graham's debut feature Galore is an earnest and technically confident piece of filmmaking but noticeably lacking in stakes. Like so many other tales about teens behaving badly, the overblown drama on which the movie hinges never really seems that important. Lush cinematography and natural performance ultimately make little difference when you just don't care about the story. The film takes place around the outskirts of Canberra, a few weeks before the devastating 2003 bushfires. Puberty Blues star Ashleigh Cummings plays 17-year-old Billie, whose voiceover bookends the film. Her best friend is Laura (Lily Sullivan), an aspiring writer and the girlfriend of skater boy Danny (Toby Wallace). She's thinking about giving Danny her virginity, and goes to her life-long BFF for advice. What Laura doesn't know is that Billie is already sleeping with him. In short, it's exactly the kind of angst-ridden rubbish that makes you glad you're no longer in high school. Petulant and manipulative, Billie treats life like a sordid little soap opera in which she's the tragic star. The reality of the situation is far less kind, not to mention a whole lot less interesting. The movie's dramatic inflation of Billie's selfish behaviour may strike a chord with teenage audiences, although they'll probably be bored by the film's deliberate pacing. Adults, on other hand, will just want to throttle her. The poor plotting is unfortunate, because in other areas the film is quite strong. Despite Cummings being saddled with a deeply unsympathetic character, both her and Sullivan give intensely authentic performances. The same is true of newcomer Aliki Matangi as Isaac, a troubled but good-natured youth who gets caught up in Billie's drama. The weak link is Wallace as the mopey, uncharismatic Danny, whose blandness makes the love triangle that much more difficult to comprehend. Graham also deserves credit for his graceful visual direction. While handheld camerawork and sun-dappled cinematography aren't exactly new tricks for an Australian made indie, there's no discounting the beauty of the film's setting, nor the elegance with which Graham, a Canberra local, brings the sleepy location to life. But the skill all comes to naught in the service of such an uninvolving narrative. Both Graham and his cast likely have bright futures ahead of them, sure to be filled with far more accomplished projects. Go and see them, but give Galore a miss. https://youtube.com/watch?v=iRWbh_TOLdw
Fresh off his US headline tour, Kilter has returned to Australia's sandy shores with a studio album in tow. Over the last few years, the artist has outgrown his position on the outskirts of Australia's electronic music scene to become an established EDM up-and-comer. With his new album, Through The Distortion, Kilter delivers seven previously unheard tracks alongside critically acclaimed singles 'They Don't Know Us', 'Count On Me' and 'I Hear You'. Its sound is typically versatile, showcasing Kilter's ability to blend elements of dancehall, garage, breakbeat, hip-hop, big beat, R'n'B, electro and chill. What's more, the album features collaborations with a selection of his favourite Australian musicians, including LANKS, Yaw Faso and Woodes. Along with his new album, Kilter has gifted fans with a massive antipodean tour taking him across Australia and New Zealand in September. And it just so happens that you can go in the running to win a double pass to either his Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane show. We're offering you the chance to win a heap of Kilter-related prizes, including double passes to his Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane shows, a meet and greet and a tonne of merch. TOUR DATES Brisbane — Friday, June 23rd, 2017 at The Triffid Melbourne — Friday, July 7th, 2017 at Prince Sydney — Saturday, July 8th, 2017 at Max Watts Whether you've been a Kilter fan from the beginning, or you've recently joined the bandwagon, enter your details below to go into the draw to win big. [competition]624378[/competition] Image: Maclay Heriot
For most of Australia, 2018 has been hot. Last weekend, Melbourne endured its hottest day for two years, while Sydney experienced its second hottest day ever. Temperatures have been toasty around the rest of the country too, with Brisbane expecting a top of 38 today. And although Tasmania hasn't been immune to the extreme heat — reaching 35 degrees earlier this week — the state also just dipped firmly in the opposite direction. Yesterday, while it was a rather warm 34 degrees in Sydney, 36 in Brisbane and 37 in Perth, eastern Tassie enjoyed storms, hail and even ice. In Hobart, yesterday's maximum only made it to 15.8 degrees, while the minimum was 13.5 degrees. That's rugging-up weather, not swimming temperatures. https://www.instagram.com/p/Bd4Ob8oBD5b/?taken-by=tasmaniawhyweloveit https://www.instagram.com/p/Bd4CcbTHV-7/?taken-by=what_kat_did_next "I don't think we've seen that very often," the Bureau Of Meteorology Debbie Tabor told the ABC, explaining that the icy conditions were caused by the thunderstorms. "We had a series of thunderstorms move through the eastern half of Tasmania… and did produce some hail at various locations and that's what was seen at Orford." On Twitter, BOM also clarified that the visible whiteness wasn't snow, even if it might've looked like it. https://twitter.com/BOM_Tas/status/952077590453514240 That said, snow did reach the state's lofty peaks — at 1300 to 1400 metres, not on the ground. Today, a top of 21 is expected in Hobart, ahead of a week in the mid twenties. Via ABC. Top image: Katrina Ashton via Instagram.
Maybe G&Ts are your favourite tipple and, if you're sipping drinks at your favourite bar, you always have one within reach. Perhaps you've never found a vodka cocktail that you haven't loved, or you've made it your life's mission to try all the whiskies (yes, spanning both whisky and whiskey) that you can find. Or, you could simply like broadening your horizons when it comes to knocking back the good stuff, and supporting independent producers while you're at it. Since 2015, the boozing sipping party that is Indie Spirits Tasting has covered all of the above — and it's back in 2022 after a couple of pandemic-affected years. Move over, craft beer — at this east coast event, which'll return to Melbourne in May, Brisbane in July and Sydney in September, it's craft spirits' time to shine. Everyone has been to plenty of days dedicated to brews, brews and more brews, but this touring shindig is solely about all the whisky, gin, vodka, rum, tequila, vermouth and mezcal you could ever want. More than 30 exhibitors and master distillers are on the bill, showcasing over 200 craft spirits. Clearly, your booze-loving tastebuds will be in heaven. As well as tasting away, attendees will also be able to chat to the folks behind the craft and independent tipples on offer, listen to talks on booze-related topics — Melbourne options include learning what it takes to start your own alcohol brand, celebrating Aussie whiskies and understanding all the different styles of gins — and buy bottles to take home with you. "We started the Indie Spirits Tasting events back in 2015 as a way for a few smaller distilleries and brands to be able to showcase their products to the trade," explains founder David Spanton. "Thanks to the enthusiasm of curious consumers who want to know about the latest bar and drinking trends and who are passionate about local and truly handmade craft products, the event has expanded to include both thirsty drinks enthusiasts and the bartenders that serve them." This year's events will feature brands such as Never Never Distilling Co, Poor Toms, Boat Rocker, Wolf Lane and Archie Rose, some of which will be pouring limited-edition tipples. And while the big focus is on homegrown spirits, a few international names will be on the bill as well — taking your tastebuds on a trip, including through French cognacs and American gins. INDIE SPIRITS TASTING 2022: Sunday, May 8 — The Craft & Co, Collingwood, Melbourne Sunday, July 17 — Lefty's Music Hall, Petrie Terrace, Brisbane Sunday, September 4 — Potts Point Hotel, Kings Cross, Sydney Indie Spirits Tasting starts its 2022 events in Melbourne in May, before heading to Brisbane in July and Sydney in September. For further information or to buy tickets, head to the Indie Spirits Tasting website.
It was a delight as a webcomic, then on the page. As a Netflix series, Heartstopper instantly proved a gem, too. Indeed, if you didn't dedicate an autumn 2022 day to binging the show's first season, then you probably weren't anywhere near your streaming queue or social media. As charming as romantic comedies, LGBTQIA+-championing tales, British series and coming-of-age stories can get, Heartstopper dropped all eight of its first-season episodes at once, became an instant Netflix hit and started many an obsession — regardless of whether you currently are or ever have been a queer teen trying to be true to yourself, navigating high school and riding the emotional rollercoaster that is falling in love. After Netflix renewed the series for two more seasons last year because the first proved such a hit, the show will get viewers swooning again when season two arrives on Thursday, August 3. Wondering what's in store? There's now finally a trailer. This winter, Heartstopper will be making tickers miss a beat again, and twice, with the graphic novel's author and illustrator Alice Oseman also back as the show's writer (and creator, obviously). It's easy to see why more Heartstopper is on its way — and not just because its narrative has continued past where season one stopped on both the web and in print. The first season hit the Netflix top-ten list in 54 countries, wowed audiences and earned the online attention to prove it, and made stars out of its cast. Story-wise, Heartstopper heads to Truham Grammar School, where Charlie Spring (first-timer Joe Locke) was in year ten in season one. He found himself seated in his form class next to year 11 rugby player Nick Nelson (Kit Connor, Little Joe) at the start of a new term, with sparks flying swiftly and overwhelmingly — at least on Charlie's part — and a crush and then a life-changing love story blossoming. Filled with crushes, a coming-out narrative for Nick and a cute Paris trip — as based on the sneak peek — season two sees its key pair in the thick of their new relationship, and coping with exams and the prom. Also, Charlie's high-drama best friend Tao (fellow debutant William Gao) and recently out trans pal Elle (Yasmin Finney) are working through their bond, while her school friends Tara (Corinna Brown, Daphne) and Darcy (Kizzy Edgell) have their own challenges. "You don't always have to understand your feelings completely. You don't have to always have everything figured out. You can just feel," Nick tells Elle in the trailer — something that season-one viewers know sounds like classic Heartstopper. There's currently four volumes, spanning five chapters, of Heartstopper on the page — and a fifth volume set to arrive in November 2023 — so fingers crossed there'll be even more seasons of the Netflix series in the future. Check out the trailer for Heartstopper season two below: Heartstopper season two will stream via Netflix from Thursday, August 3. Read our review of season one. Images: Netflix.
Buying a plant is a bit like getting a pet — except, at times, even more difficult. You see a fancy-looking fern in the plant store and think, whoa, this would look great on the kitchen bench. So you take it home and try your best, really, to take care of it, and dream that one day it might love you back (hopefully). But then disaster happens; you see a few brown leaves and it looks a little wilted. What do you do? Truth is, some plants can be pretty needy, and some just don't flourish in certain environments. It can be really hard to figure out what your plants require and where they grow best, so we spoke to Georgina Reid, founder and editor of online magazine The Planthunter. She's given her seasoned advice that'll help you keep those plant babies alive, organised by the different parts of your home. THE SUNNY, NORTH-FACING, INDOOR SPACE This is your well-sunned living room or kitchen with a nice big window. There's a lot that can grow here due to the amount of sunshine pouring in. Many succulents will work well in this space; look to hen and chicks (Echeveria spp.), jade plant (Crassula spp.) and even mistletoe cactus (Rhipsalis spp.). Aesthetically, the fiddle-leaf fig looks snazzy in a well-lit, white room (although apparently a little cliché in the plant community), and so does peperomia with its thick, slightly succulent leaves. Just be aware if this space doesn't get that direct afternoon sun — this may be good for you in the middle of summer, but not so much for any cacti or herbs. These guys need a big dose of sun so this spot may be a bit depriving. THE SUNNY, BACKDOOR COURTYARD Conveniently located at the other end of your house, the courtyard is most likely at ground level so there's a good chance you can plant directly in the soil and keep things in pots. As a result, consider this spot the all-rounder. It's an ideal location for succulents, flowers, vegetables and herbs. Oregano, rosemary and thyme are quite easy to grow, and the great thing about them is that they're perennial — they'll live for more than one year (unlike basil, coriander and parsley who live fast and die young). Many veggies need roughly four to six hours of sun each day, making a sunny courtyard an ideal space for them to thrive. And if you're not after edibles, Reid recommends checking out the spaghetti-like hanging fronds of the mistletoe cactus (Rhipsalis spp.) which provide an eye-catching, refreshingly sculptural addition to a shadier outdoor space. THE OFTEN HUMID, STEAMY BATHROOM Plants might do a great job of freshening up the bathroom, but the steam from your shower is enough to drown a large number of genera — FYI, that's the plural of genus— so Reid suggests looking for tropical climate plants. Ferns are great here as they love that moisture. The Boston fern is a great bathroom addition visually. They're also pretty tough and grow very tall. Maidenhair fern is also a popular bathroom addition, but be warned: this one may be for the greenest of thumbs. According to Reid, the Maidenhair can be quite temperamental if not provided with near-perfect growing conditions. THE LOW-LIT STUDY OR BEDROOM Our bedrooms and studies aren't reliably bright, so the desk cactus doesn't like this part of the house, regardless of how cute it looks next to that lamp. Reid recommends you swap it for a big leafy plant or fern instead. She suggests looking for rainforest plants: "They've evolved with large, glossy leaves to grab as much light as possible." Although not applicable to all plants, many of these have 'drip tips'. You can identify these by the point at the end of the leaf that water spills off. Some of Reid's favourites include the hoya, a beautifully sculpted climbing plant with incredible flowers, and Devil's Ivy — the name comes from the fact that it's near impossible to kill this guy. Also, the Fruit Salad plant (also known as monstera) doesn't really need a whole lot of sun and grows really well in dim light. THE HOT, WEST-FACING BALCONY The west-facing balcony might be the hottest part of your place, after the oven. In summer, the afternoon sun will roast this area, making it scorched and dry. So, it's best to put those plants that require a lot less moisture out here. Cacti love this setting: if at all, they require very little watering — they thrive in the desert, after all. Herbs are great too and so are veggies: they all need a good showering of sun. Succulents will grow well in the heat, too. Reid recommends plants from the aloe genus, particularly picatilis or Fan Aloe. Like other succulents, it's the perfect plant to survive a heatwave as all the moisture is stored within its leaves. So how much water do succulents need? You'll notice when they need more moisture; they'll be trying to draw water from itself and will look a little withered. "It's best to give your plants a good soaking every week or two, rather than a trickle every day," says Reid. You can tell if they need a water by sticking a finger into the soil. If there's moisture, it's probably fine. There's no need to drown the poor thing. All in all, getting your plants to thrive can be tricky and often needs more than one go. But if it doesn't work out, try again. "Plants die," says Reid, "that's just how it is." Plant Life Balance is a new initiative designed to get Australians excited and confident about styling their homes with plants while promoting the healthy benefits plants bring. The initiative also delivers an Australian-first, virtual greening app. The Plant Life Balance app, asks Aussies to rate their space, then improve their health score by choosing a look for their room or outdoor area, grabbing a plant list and hitting the nursery. Download the app here.
Tasmania has quickly become the ultimate destination for lovers of all things spirituous, frothy and quaffable, with world-class wine regions, small batch spirit producers and a proud history of local brews and hop growing. You'll find new distilleries challenging tradition with unique, personalised experiences for the whisky aficionado and specialist gins that encompass the taste and place that is Tasmania. There are more breweries than you can shake a stick at — including an Aussie trailblazer in the wild fermentation scene. Not to mention the finest of Australian sparkling wine. So whatever your tipple, it's time to grab your glass and see what's on pour in our great southernmost state. We've teamed up with Tourism Tasmania to highlight the region's finest. Just make sure you've got a designated driver in tow. [caption id="attachment_866909" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Liza Jane Sowden[/caption] MAKE YOUR OWN SPARKLING WINE AT JOSEF CHROMY Tasmania is the centre of Australia's premium sparkling industry and Josef Chromy Wines produces some of the finest. This is a cellar door experience like no other. At the state-of-the-art winery in Relbia, you'll be guided through the art of sparkling winemaking and tasting before you blend your own sparkling wine to delight your palate — and yes, you get to take a bottle home with you. Hear about Josef's story as a leader of the Tasmanian food and wine industry, the sustainable practices of the vineyard and the cool-climate regions he has helped put on the map. Finish with a tasting flight of current releases, followed by a two-course lunch in the restaurant featuring the finest of local produce — with paired wines, of course. [caption id="attachment_867702" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pete Harmsen[/caption] TAKE A SPRING BAY DISTILLERY VIP TOUR AND TASTING Get a personalised VIP whisky experience at Spring Bay Distillery. Distilling team Cam and Suzy Brett produce award-winning Australian spirits at this spectacular maritime location on the East Coast. Discover whiskies shaped by the sea, crafted from the region's pristine rainwater and premium Tasmanian barley, in a range of elegant single malts from the bright, light and floral to the rich, sweet and bold. As is fitting of a VIP, you'll sample a tasting flight of three drams — including an exclusive dip straight from the barrel — and experience a personalised distillery tour. Find out how exceptional Australian single malt can be and experience the ultimate whisky-lover's delight. [caption id="attachment_868870" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Moon Cheese Studio[/caption] ENJOY HAND-PUMPED ALE AND CIDER AT THE TWO METRE TALL FARM BAR Head into the scenic Derwent Valley for a hand-pumped pint at Two Metre Tall. The 'farm bar' sits at the end of an unassuming country driveway surrounded by idyllic farmland and some decorative hop vines. One of the earliest Aussie breweries to really explore wild, funky and sour ferments, it now brews a range of farm ales and ciders throughout the year — including seasonal specials and a dry sparkling mead. Ingredients are sourced from their own sustainable local farm and carefully selected growers across Tasmania. If spontaneous fermentation and sustainable practices are your thing, stop in for some free tastings and a pint, bring a picnic and settle in for an afternoon. Driver recommended. [caption id="attachment_867703" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alistair Bett[/caption] GO WHISKY DEEP AT THE CALLINGTON MILL DISTILLERY SERENDIPITY EXPERIENCE The picturesque historic town of Oatlands is now home to a new distillery. On the grounds of the old Callington Mill, this architecturally-designed space is the "Rolls-Royce of Whisky distilleries" and is already home to some award-winning drops. In the massive barrel room of the Callington Mill Distillery, you'll taste five premium cask-strength whiskies, including an Australian brandy cask and a bourbon ex muscadelle. Learn from the masters about the art of crafting the perfect single malt for your tastes. Then do it, and leave with a full bottle of the dram of your dreams and your own unique label. Finish off with an interactive, self-guided tour of the distillery. Prepare to have your whisky-loving mind (and palate) well and truly blown away. [caption id="attachment_866448" align="alignnone" width="1920"] S.Group[/caption] INDULGE YOUR LOVE OF GIN AT SOUTHERN WILD DISTILLERY Southern Wild Distillery has managed to craft something truly distinctive with Dasher + Fisher gins. The distillery is embracing what's unique about Tasmanian landscapes and showcasing small local growers, capturing seasonality, the personality and — of course — the spirit of the place. Take a tour of the distillery and explore different Tasmanian regions with the tasting flight. The Mountain Gin botanicals include pepperberries and herbs from Cradle Mountain with eucalypt and rosemary, with a refreshing result akin to an alpine walk on a wet day. The Meadow Gin distils the essence of Tasmanian gardens with herbs, flowers and seasonal orange. The savoury Ocean Gin variety uses wakame seaweed harvested from the Tasman Sea as a hero botanical. Plus they also craft Sloe, Strawberry, Cherry and Saffron steeped gins highlighting local Tasmanian producers of premium ingredients. Bottom's up. Ready to plan a trip for your tastebuds around Tasmania? To discover more, visit the website. Top image: Tourism Tasmania and Adam Gibson
General tickets for the Australian leg of Kylie Minogue's 2025 Tension world tour haven't yet gone on sale, but fans have been spinning around over presales, so much so that more gigs have already been announced. When 'Padam Padam' summer happens all over again, it'll do so with an extra show in each of Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane on what'll be the singer's biggest global tour in 14 years. Of course Kylie is starting her latest live performances Down Under. And of course the reaction has been huge. Headlining Splendour in the Grass 2024 mightn't have worked out after the Byron Bay music festival was cancelled mere weeks after revealing its lineup, but there's plenty of demand to see the Aussie pop superstar on home soil and to catch this tour before anyone else on the planet. [caption id="attachment_973694" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Erik Melvin[/caption] Minogue is kicking off her latest shows in February 2025, still beginning with a one-night gig in Perth. From there, she also has a single date locked in for Adelaide. She's now doing two concerts in Brisbane, however, plus three shows apiece in Melbourne and Sydney. The last time that Minogue embarked on a tour this big was back in 2011. The last time that she hit the stage Down Under was in 2023 to open Sydney WorldPride. So far, the Tension tour also spans stops in Bangkok, Tokyo, Kaohsiung and Manila in Asia after her Aussie concerts, and then hits up Glasgow, Newcastle, Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield, London, Nottingham and Birmingham in the UK. In what's proven a massive career since her Neighbours-starring, 'I Should Be So Lucky'- and 'Locomotion'-singing 80s era, it's been a big last few years for Minogue thanks to the huge success of the Grammy-winning 'Padam Padam', a brief return to Neighbours and a Las Vegas residency — and now the Tension tour keeps that streak running. Kylie Minogue Tension Tour 2025 Australian Dates Saturday, February 15 — RAC Arena, Perth Tuesday, February 18 — Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide Thursday, February 20–Saturday, February 22 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Wednesday, February 26–Thursday, February 27 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane Saturday, March 1–Monday, March 3 — Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney Kylie Minogue's Tension tour kicks off in Australia in February and March 2025. Ticket presales for the new Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane shows start from Thursday, September 26, with general sales from Wednesday, October 2 — both at staggered times. Head to the tour website for more details. Top image: Darenoted Ltd.
When one holiday ends, the only thing for it is to start planning the next one. Perhaps in one of those magical places where Slack and email doesn't exist. Where it's not only fine to drink cocktails with lunch — it's encouraged. And entire days are spent by the nearest body of water before you feast on platters of local seafood as the sun sets. If that sounds appealing and you're ready to get booking, spin the fantasy into a reality with one of these luxurious island holiday deals that can be booked now exclusively through Concrete Playground Trips. We teamed up with accommodation and experience providers to curate trips that are truly unforgettable (and significantly discounted), so scroll now to find and book your fave. AFFORDABLE LUXURY STAY IN LOMBOK We are obsessed with Lombok — Bali's less crowded neighbour. It has a high calibre of beaches, food and hospitality but at a significantly lower price point and with fewer tourists. To best take advantage of this stunning island, we teamed up with KU Villas Lombok to create three different travel deals. The first deal is the simplest and includes a two-night stay with daily breakfasts (for two people) in this lavish accommodation for just $105 a night. For an extra $25 per night, you can upgrade to get your own private plunge pool. The second deal includes a three-night stay, private chauffeur, $200 credit for the clifftop SIWA Clubhouse, one-hour massage for each guest and all your breakfasts — and is just $455 total for two people. And the third deal is $655 for all the same inclusions plus extra spa treatments. BOOK NOW THE ULTIMATE KANGAROO ISLAND ADVENTURE This Kangaroo Island deal makes exploring this criminally underrated South Australian travel destination so much easier. It includes a three-day car hire, return ferry tickets from Cape Jervis, a two-night stay at the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge and an epic ocean safari to get a sea creature's perspective of the spectacular natural beauty. This cruise will take you along the coastline with the chance to see dolphins, seals, eagles and other native birdlife. For more things to do during your stay, check out our weekender's guide to Kangaroo Island and discover why the New York Times recently named it one of the world's best places to visit in 2023. BOOK NOW A FIVE-DAY HOLISTIC BALI RETREAT We love a good wellness escape. That's why we teamed up with Y Retreats to create this exclusive five-day Bali retreat experience. During your stay, you can join any of the wellness experiences — life coaching sessions, stress management activities, yoga and breathwork classes, leadership and resilience training and workshops from keynote speakers. All your meals and transfers are also included. But get in fast. This unique retreat package only has eight spots available. BOOK NOW [caption id="attachment_810409" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Christoph Burgdorfer (Unsplash)[/caption] GLAMPING HOLIDAY ON THE COOK ISLANDS The Cook Islands made our 2022 list of rising bucket list destinations for 2023 and it's easy to see why — you just need to have it on your radar. Immerse yourselves in nature (but in total comfort) on Rarotonga Island with this luxurious glamping holiday. We'll put you up in the Ikurangi Eco Retreat — the Cook Islands' first and only purpose-built eco-accommodation and glamping hotel — where you can choose to stay in a range of beautiful safari tents. You'll spend five nights on this tropical island, venturing to stunning lagoons, remote beaches and scenic nature trails. The trip also includes use of the hotel's bikes and snorkelling equipment, transfers and daily tropical breakfasts delivered to your room. For just $165 per night, this is untouched tropical paradise without the big ticket price tag. BOOK NOW LUXURIOUS MEDITERRANEAN-STYLE ESCAPE IN LOMBOK We teamed up with Royal Avila Boutique Resort to offer an incredible deal to Concrete Playground readers. When you book a three-night or five-night stay, you'll get 47% off the total price. And this special Lombok deal doesn't just include your accommodation. For $755 for a three-night stay for two (around $125 per person per night), each of you will also get a 60-minute massage, lunch and dinner at its restaurant, a welcome cocktail on arrival and daily breakfasts. BOOK NOW THE ULTIMATE WHITSUNDAYS ESCAPE The Whitsundays is one of our top picks for the best Australian destinations to visit in 2023. That was the inspiration behind this exclusive deal which goes above and beyond with unforgettable inclusions to showcase the very best of this beautiful part of the country. Two adults will spend five days at the Mirage Whitsundays resort and take part in a series of guided tours. There's a two-hour sunset sailing cruise, a one-hour scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef and a full-day Whitehaven Beach excursion. Airport transfers and daily breakfasts are also included. (And those who are working with a smaller budget can opt for this shorter travel package.) BOOK NOW FIVE-STAR STAY IN THE HEART OF KUTA If you're visiting Bali and would prefer to be at the centre of the action, then we have the five-star hotel deal for a luxury stay in the heart of Kuta. We've paired up with the opulent Aryaduta Bali to give Concrete Playground Trips users an exclusive offer at a very special rate. A three-night stay (for two people) at the resort is less than half the standard price at just $455. And our package includes perks like a daily cocktail at the rooftop pool bar, dinner at the resort restaurant, an airport transfer and breakfast every day. A no-brainer for realising your island fantasy as soon as possible. BOOK NOW Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world. Top image: Lombok by Tom Bixler (Unsplash)
While we've seen plenty of films set amidst the heat of battle, very few explore what happens next. Opening in West Germany in 1958, Labyrinth of Lies endeavours to understand how a divided nation attempted to recover from the atrocities of the Second World War, why many of its citizens tried to disregard their history, and the efforts required to bring war criminals to justice. Though it might surprise modern audiences, some Germans in the wake of WWII claimed not to have heard of Auschwitz concentration camp. Others decided not to speak about it, or the war in general. Prosecutor Johann Radmann (Alexander Fehling) learns of his compatriots' willing ignorance when journalist Thomas Gneilka (Andre Szymanski) brings a man to his attention: a former camp commander, responsible for overseeing countless deaths, who now works as a schoolteacher. Unlike those around him, the eager young Radmann can't overlook the past — even as his investigation is met with apprehension and derision, deemed almost impossible, and impeded by mountains of paperwork. "This is a labyrinth. Don't lose yourself in it," Radmann is warned early in his search for answers. That line of dialogue may sound obvious and clunky, but it's thankfully the only time (unnecessarily romance aside) that the film is guilty of those charges. As evident in the movie's stately pace, muted tones and solemn mood, writer-director Giulio Ricciarelli and co-scribe/researcher Elisabeth Bartel take a measured approach to telling an important tale. Blending fact and fiction (Labyrinth of Lies' protagonist is fictitious, but based on several real-life figures), their first feature proves as subtle as it is significant. The duo perfects the delicate balance of bringing attention to the lesser-known Frankfurt Auschwitz trials, while avoiding following too closely in the footsteps of fellow war films. Consider their approach to a crucial part of Radmann's quest: interviewing Auschwitz survivors. Knowing that the details are already a matter of record, the film presents a montage of images, but emphasises mournful music rather than the content of the conversations. Instead of letting viewers hear harrowing specifics, it forces them to focus on the faces of those doing the re-telling, as well as the shocked expressions of those discovering the truth for the first time. Given that the movie is as much about the inherently human preference to sidestep tough memories and topics as it is about Germany after WWII, it's not just a stylish way of structuring a pivotal scene, but a savvy and effective one as well. Amidst the drama, Fehling weathers Radmann's journey, making the character a figure of determination and defiance. Best known outside of Germany for appearing in Inglourious Basterds and TV's Homeland, his is a complex portrayal, as befitting a rich and layered film. With his character finding out about much of the Nazi's Auschwitz activities for the first time, he's not quite an audience surrogate, but his voyage of discovery is never less than believable. You won't just see his horror — you'll feel it, directed towards not only the realities of war, but the ways people try to forget it.
No matter where you are in the world, air travel is always a pretty uniform experience. But there's a new kid on the airline block that's looking to shake things up a little — and it's tailored specifically to millennials. Joon, a lower-cost spin-off of Air France, is out to give air travel a bit of a shake-up, offering a 'new generation travel experience' to a 'young working clientele'. In other words: it's not a regular airline, it's a cool airline. The planes — which will start flying from December — will be set up with all the things Air France reckons will make millennials feel right at home: organic ingredients in the food, Rick & Morty on the screens, phone charging outlets in the seats, and fruit smoothies and organic French wine on the menu. Instead of prim uniforms, fresh-faced attendants will be kitted out in sporty threads and white kicks, while bold branding sees electric blue splashed across the seats, the uniforms and just about everything else. I guess millennial pink would have been too obvious. According to Joon's launch campaign, the whole flying thing is just one part of the equation, with the airline also likening itself to 'a fashion brand, a rooftop bar, and a personal assistant'. Fitting, given how much we millennials apparently love to multitask (and drinking at rooftop bars). Joon kicks off five medium-haul routes out of Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport this December, with plans to add long-haul flights to destinations like Seychelles and Brazil mid-2018. It's hard to say if staff wearing sneakers will make a budget flight any less of a drag, but it's nice to see an airline do something different for once. One to try if you're travelling into or out of Paris next year.
From fake wedding receptions to wartime-era dances, The Boon Companions have made a name for themselves with their immersive theatre experiences around town. For the Festival of Live Art 2016, they present Dance Magic Dance: Cast Party, an after-dark shindig with the cast of a seventies musical theatre production. There'll be booze, music and explosive backstage drama, as actors and audience members mingle on the dancefloor. Slip into character, and get ready to party. Things are going to get wild.
Living in a building that hangs from space might sound like science fiction; however a New York firm has published a design that explores that very concept. Appropriately labeled "speculative" on their website, Clouds Architecture Office has come up with a high-rise building that would hypothetically be suspended from an orbiting asteroid. Yes, really. For those instantly dreaming about living about the earth, the bottom would reach close enough to the ground for residents to parachute to the surface. The firm has proposed Dubai as a potential place to build the tower, citing that the city "has proven to be a specialist in tall building construction at one fifth the cost of New York City construction." While suspending anything from any kind of celestial body piques a whole lot of interest, Clouds AO have cited recent missions from the European Space Agency that they say prove that "it's possible to rendezvous and land on a spinning comet." They also say that "NASA has scheduled an asteroid retrieval mission for 2021 which aims to prove the feasibility of capturing and relocating an asteroid." According to their idea, if we could harness an asteroid and pull it into a geosynchronous equatorial orbit (a stable circular orbit that follows the Earth's rotation), steel cables could then be attached to the asteroid, and a tower suspended from them. The building would then hover in a figure-eight motion daily, moving between the northern and southern hemispheres. Business would be conducted on the lower levels, with the middle section classed as residential. As for what happens above that, "devotional activities are scattered along the highest reaches." There are just a few points to be taken into account, unsurprisingly. The proposal includes transfer stations to load and unload people and goods, but how this could be done with a building moving literally at an astronomical pace is debatable. While infographics in the proposal show aeroplanes safely manoeuvring around the tower, having just one object moving through the air consistently with no vertical break would be sure to wreak havoc on global flight paths, let alone if more towers were built. Finally, if the tower is constantly in motion, what happens if a resident parachutes to earth for work and then forgets that they left their earphones at home? Are they left to face the rest of the day without jams? The firm has also noted that "there is probably a tangible height limit beyond which people would not tolerate living due to the extreme conditions," meaning that it's pretty tough to be outside the troposphere without some kind of spacesuit. It doesn't really bother Clouds AO, though, as astronauts do it all the time "so perhaps it's not so bad?" Even with those issues, the proposed idea is a maverick design that really pushes the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of architecture. It also demonstrates that new research inspires new technology which, in turn, changes the way we build our world. While the Analemma Tower might not be built in our lifetimes, its design goes to show that we'll always keep reaching for the stars. Via: Dezeen. Images: Clouds Architecture Office.
Mark Friday, April 12, 2024 in your diary: that's when Fallout will jump from gaming's bunker to streaming's landscape. After 2023 saw The Last of Us leap from mashed buttons to a TV sensation for HBO, 2024 now has a big candidate to follow in its footsteps, this time via Prime Video. It's been almost three decades since Fallout first hit computers back in 1997, with three released sequels, a fourth on the way and seven spinoffs all following. Next comes a live-action television take starring Ella Purnell (Yellowjackets), Walton Goggins (I'm a Virgo) and Kyle MacLachlan (Lucky Hank). After dropping its first images earlier this week, the Fallout TV series now has a trailer — and it nails the game's aesthetic, sound and vibe. Fans of the Fallout game will already know the show's setting: a post-apocalyptic future. The series takes place 200 years after everything went pear-shaped, with people living in luxe fallout shelters ever since. When some such folks leave their cosy confines, they find a hellscape filled with mutants, wild west vibes and plenty of violence. Purnell plays vault-dweller Lucy, while Twin Peaks great MacLachlan is her dad Overseer Hank, who — as his name suggests — oversees Vault 33. On the surface, Goggins is bounty hunter The Ghoul, who has a secret past — and Aaron Moten (Emancipation) also has a pivotal part as Brotherhood of Steel soldier Maximus. The retrofuturistic dystopian series also features Moisés Arias (Samaritan), Sarita Choudhury (And Just Like That...), Michael Emerson (Evil), Leslie Uggams (Extrapolations), Frances Turner (The Boys), Dave Register (Heightened), Zach Cherry (Severance) and Johnny Pemberton (Weird: The Al Yankovic Story) as well — plus Rodrigo Luzzi (Dead Ringers), Annabel O'Hagan (Dear Edward) and Xelia Mendes-Jones (The Wheel of Time). For The Last of Us, HBO enlisted a creative force from one of the US premium cable network's past hits in Chernobyl's Craig Mazin. Prime Video has done the same with Fallout, but with Westworld creators Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy — who also executive produced Prime Video's own The Peripheral. As well as executive producing with Joy, Nolan directs the first three episodes. Geneva Robertson-Dworet (Captain Marvel) and Graham Wagner (Silicon Valley) are similarly among Fallout's executive producers, as well as the series' writers and co-showrunners. And yes, Bethesda Game Studios has a hand in finally bringing the games to the screen. Check out the first trailer for Fallout below: Fallout will start streaming via Prime Video from Friday, April 12, 2024. Images: courtesy of Prime Video.
With two decades under its belt, London's Fabric is an international clubbing icon. Melburnians have usually had to fly across the globe to visit the famed nightclub, but now, it's finally heading our way. Fabric is teaming up with local music agency Novel for its first-ever Australian appearance, as part of its 20th anniversary celebrations. On Saturday, December 7, Fabric is sailing into The Paddock at Fed Square, with an impressive lineup of its favourite DJs and performers in tow, for a shindig dubbed Fabric XX. This rollicking day party is being headlined by renowned Chilean-born German party-starter and Fabric mainstay, Ricardo Villalobos. He's joined on the bill by a slew of Fabric regulars, including UK tech house DJ Craig Richards; London-based DJ, producer and label owner Bobby; and Canada's Matthew Johnson with a live serve of his distinctive electro sound. A crew of local artists are also coming to the party, with the full lineup set to be announced soon. If all that won't have you dancing into summer in style, we don't know what will. Fabric XX runs from 12–10pm.
Newport's latest culinary hub has quite a bit going on. Located on Hall Street, right across from the railway station, Heart of Hall is a cafe, a shop and a cooking school combined — meaning that you can grab a bite, pick up some stuff for your kitchen and then get educated on how to use it. The venue is the brainchild of Stacey Krbaleski and Nicole Walker, who met a decade ago when their daughters were starting primary school. Inspired by a mutual love of all things delicious, the pair got into business together, and here we are. Danni Perryman (previously of Walters Wine Bar) runs the show in the kitchen, and has helped craft a menu full of familiar staples. Breakfast options include bacon and egg rolls, and chia pudding with berry compote, toasted coconut and pistachio crumb. The rest of the menu is split into brunch (think zucchini haloumi fritters and smoked salmon bagels) and "a little more like lunch" (coconut poached chicken salad, Boscastle pies and sausage roles, and a locally sourced cheese board). Their coffee, meanwhile, comes courtesy of the folks at Small Batch. After eating, guests can head to the Heart of Hall store. There they'll find an eclectic mix of items ranging from cook books to cheesemaking sets to high-end knives. Finally, there's the school, where cooking instructor Kate McKay (Jamie Oliver's Recipease) is running evening classes on everything from Spanish cuisine to pasta-making. They've even got a chocolate egg workshop just in time for Easter. Find Heart of Hall at 17 Hall Street, Newport. For more information and to book into one of their cooking classes, visit their website.
The very beginning of Nick Broomfield's new Whitney Houston documentary features voiceover from one of the singer's friends talking about how she died. We all know the story: one of the most talented voices of our time succumbed to substance abuse and drowned in a bathtub. But her friend posits that while drugs were involved, perhaps they weren't the root cause. Perhaps Whitney Houston died of a broken heart, she says. This sad idea settles over the rest of the film like a cloud, as Broomfield recounts the story of a supremely talented yet obviously troubled young woman surrounded by people unable or unwilling to get her the help that she needed. The Whitney we first see is so young that it's difficult for us to believe she'll become the woman in the bathtub. She's bubbly and bright, singing in her gospel choir at church (led by her mother, gospel singer Cissy Houston). That trademark smile is instantly recognisable. She's just a kid with a huge voice, and she's happy. But that huge voice soon proves to be both a blessing and a curse. Signed at the age of 19, Whitney was thrown into the deep end of an industry that had its own plans for her, moulded into a pop princess by a team of men who worked at Arista Records. Interviewing some of them in the present day, it seems the muscle memory of their puppeteering is still fresh. Her old management team still talks about her like an object rather than a person, and there's little doubt that their level of control over Whitney contributed negatively towards her mental and physical health. You're left feeling sad and frustrated, wanting to call these men into account. Why didn't they help her? Whitney: Can I Be Me uses a large amount of footage from the singer's 1999 world tour, some of which is absolutely staggering. At this point in her life her voice was still in prime condition – the effort she puts into every single song leaves her drenched in sweat; her calling card "I Will Always Love You" works the audience up into a frenzy; while her ability to "caress notes", as the Arista representatives say, is unrivalled. In a time where there was no Beyoncé and certainly no Janelle Monae or Nicki Minaj, Whitney's music was a carefully crafted brand of pop, and was often sent back to the studio for being "too black-sounding". The movie's title becomes a sad realisation that hits you mid-way through. As much as this is a story about Whitney losing her life, it's also about her losing herself. The sweetest parts of the film come from home video footage of Whitney just sitting around eating takeaway and watching movies, or acting out silly scenes with her husband Bobby Brown. In these moments, we're reassured that she has friends and family who love her. And yet ultimately, these relationships all fall apart. Even Robyn, her childhood friend who stuck with her for years, eventually fades away. A lot is made in the film about Robyn and Whitney's relationship, and whether it was more than just a friendship. But regardless of whether Whitney was gay, or bisexual, we get the feeling Robyn is one of the pillars in her life. That they parted ways mid-tour seems to just weaken Whitney's grip on her voice, her health, and her increasingly unhappy marriage. The footage of her being interviewed by Diane Sawyer in 2002 about her addictions is especially moving. When asked what her biggest devil was, she replies that it is herself. Whitney: Can I Be Me paints a tragic portrait of a woman who didn't have the right people around her, nor the drive to get herself the help she required. To add to the grey cloud, Whitney's daughter Bobbi Kristina lost her life in 2015 in eerily similar circumstances. Sadly, the film feels more like a story about this pattern of unhappiness than it does a celebration of the singer's talent – a shame for a woman who had so much. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1G2fY0xci_c
