More films from Italy have won the best foreign-language Oscar than from any other country. The European nation took out the first-ever award in the category back in 1947, and last won with 2013's The Great Beauty, racking up 14 gold trophies to date in total. That's quite the feat to brag about — and if you're wondering what sets Italian efforts apart, that's where the Lavazza Italian Film Festival comes in. In fact, this year's lineup even features one of the country's more recent victors, with the World War II-set Life Is Beautiful screening on closing night. That's the end of the fest, though. Beforehand, the six-week touring event will showcase the greatest of the latest in Italian cinema. Marking its 18th year with 28 flicks, it includes everything from holiday envy-inducing comedies to playful takes on fate to straight-from-Cannes crime dramas and these: our five must-see films from the 2017 program. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJzZuoXZlR4 INDIVISIBLE When we say that 18-year-old sisters Daisy and Viola are joined at the hip, we mean that literally. The conjoined twin protagonists of Indivisible, there's nothing one does that the other doesn't witness, whether they're singing at weddings, being used as a donation incentive at their local church, or accosted by fans who want to touch their flesh. Then a Swiss doctor promises the impossible, and they start to contemplate time apart. Director Edoardo De Angelis turns the scenario into a sensitive and involving drama, helped by excellent performances from real-life, non-attached twins Angela and Marianna Fontana. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ii8L9umLsY0 COFFEE Most people don't just drink coffee — they can't get by without it. With that in mind, imagine how many caffeinated brews must've been consumed during the making of the movie that takes its name from the liquid substance. Our guess: plenty. Inspired by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's pre-Birdman and The Revenant Oscar-winner Babel, the film jumps into three loosely connected tales about folks connected to the awakening beverage, charting the exploits of a barista, a pawnbroker with an antique coffee urn and the daughter of a coffee farmer. You probably don't need us to tell you that you'll want to take a cuppa into the session with you. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGAIzwrRDLw SEA DREAMING GIRLS Life goals time: when you're a grandparent, here's hoping that you're as dynamic and carefree as the subjects of this documentary. Sea Dreaming Girls travels to the mountainous Italian village of Daone, where a group of nannas have been getting together for 20 years. To celebrate their big occasion, they plan a trip to the sea — a first for many of them. Their determination to chase their dreams is the stuff that documentarians' own fantasies must be made of, making for an engaging, heartwarming, amusing and inspiring film with plenty of heart. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kxTk4uDyb-k I WAS A DREAMER When an ex-con returns to his Roman home, he has noble aims in mind. Like many a person given a second chance, I Was a Dreamer's protagonist is eager to improve his family's lives, even if things don't always turn out as planned. What might sound like a routine, been-there-seen-that scenario seethes with realism, not only thanks to Italy's hefty experience in the genre — the country's neo-realist credentials go all the way back to the 1930s — but courtesy of its star. Fresh face Mirko Frezza plays the lead role and informs the feature's narrative, which is loosely based on his own life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2oDCkUjGin8 EMMA Couldn't make it to the Venice Film Festival, which just finished up on September 10? Us neither. Thanks to Emma, however, you won't have long to wait for one of the fest's titles. Featuring Italian star Valeria Golino, the romance tells of a recently-divorced blind woman's new relationship with a womanising ad exec, turning their exploits into a thoughtful drama. It comes to Australia just after its local release — and for long-time European cinema fans, it's also the latest flick from Bread and Tulips' director Silvio Soldini, which was the Italian film to see back in the '00s. The 2017 Italian Film Festival tours Australia between September 12 and October 25, screening at Sydney's Palace Norton Street, Palace Verona and Chauvel Cinemas from September 12 to October 8; Melbourne's Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth, Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Kino Cinemas and The Astor Theatre from September 14 to October 8; and Brisbane's Palace Barracks and Palace Centro from September 20 to October 8. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the festival website.
If you’ve been feeling lousy about procrastinating and putting off your dreams to watch cat videos on YouTube, prepare to feel even lousier. A resourceful rapper from New York City has made a legitimately amazing album solely using the display computers available in Apple stores. Prince Harvey, a 25-year-old rapper from Brooklyn, was floored when his laptop and music equipment was stolen and he couldn’t afford to replace them. But instead of doing what the Average Joe might have done (buying a bucket of caramel corn to cry-eat in the shower while pounding red wine), Harvey worked his way across New York and put his album together at Apple stores. "New York is expensive. I couldn’t just buy another laptop," he told Daily Beast. "I just thought, ‘I’m going to die before anyone knows I’m hot.’" Harvey's debut album is straight-up wonderfully-named PHATASS, which stands for 'Prince Harvey at the Apple Store, Soho', and the beats were made entirely by manipulating vocal recordings. He also befriended his neighbourhood Apple store Geniuses who showed him how get around obstacles (read: security), let him save his work instore, and generally helped the guy out over the four-month creative process. Talk about helping someone make the best of a shitty situation. They say hardship makes you stronger and Harvey joins a lineup of creatives who’ve overcome poverty and disenfranchisement to realise their dreams."I don’t think I’m poor. Poor is a mentality," Harvey told Daily Beast. "I mean, I can be broke — no money in my pocket — but I’ve never been poor." Mary J Blige survived a childhood of violence, poverty and sexual abuse only to be signed on the strength of a cassette tape of a karaoke recording. J.K. Rowling wrote the first Harry Potter book in cafes while raising her daughter and scraping by in London and Jay Z grew up in the notoriously rough Marcy Projects in Brooklyn, sold drugs to make ends meet and is now married to Kween Yonce and worth $550 million. Damn. Round of applause. Harvey is now making waves for his tenacity, inventiveness and talent while further highlighting important issues that face young people across America. So let’s all of us get up off the couch, block YouTube for a while and go do. Via Elite Daily. Image: Sarah Wang.
Fuzzy's national electronic-meets-hip hop festival Listen Out is back for another round and this year's lineup is a humdinger, topped by California's inimitable Anderson .Paak, with his live band The Free Nationals. He's joined by UK beatsmiths Gorgon City, big trap fiend Baauer, AV-happy producer Claptone live, Harlem Trap Lord A$AP Ferg, LA young gun Jauz, grime newcomer Stormzy, Swedish rap phenomenon Yung Lean and more. There's plenty of homegrown love on the bill this year, as always, with festival favourites Rüfüs marking their final Aussie shows of 2016, alongside the likes of Cosmo's Midnight, Ngaiire, L D R U, JOY, Sui Zhen and Willow Beats. Listen Out tours nationally to four of Australia's capitals, kicking off on September 24 and hitting Melbourne, Perth, Sydney and Brisbane over two weekends. Tickets are on sale from midday on Thursday, June 23 from the Listen Out website. LISTEN OUT 2016 LINEUP: Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals A$AP Ferg Claptone Immortal Live Cosmo's Midnight Gorgon City DJ Set Baauer JAUZ JOY. L D R U Ngaiire Rüfüs Stormzy Sui Zhen DJ Set Tash Sultana Tchami Willow Beats Yung Lean LISTEN OUT 2016 DATES: MELBOURNE — Saturday, September 24 at Catani Gardens, St Kilda PERTH — Sunday, September 25 at Western Parklands, HBF Arena, Joondalup SYDNEY — Saturday, October 1 at Centennial Park BRISBANE — Sunday, October 2 at The Sporting Fields, Victoria Park All shows 1-10pm Image: Listen Out.
Trippy Taco is quaint little Mexican eatery serving up mouth-watering tacos, burritos and quesadillas with vegan soy cheese. If you need a go-to for quick, filling, tasty vegan Mexican street food, this is it. If you'd like to sit and enjoy your feast with a Corona or two — just make sure you rock up at Trippy Taco before the crowds rush in. The no-frills cantina on Gertrude Street can only seat 45 amigos, and it can get a bit squishy. Its menu includes the Trippy's Original burrito with black beans, salad, salsa and mozzarella, the tofu asada burrito stacked with chargrilled tofu, goat's cheese and guac, and a range of tasty quesadillas including the special packed full of black beans, guac and salsa. For something more filling, give the nachos a go, while the breakfast burrito with scrambled eggs has all meals covered. Appears in: The Best Vegan Restaurants in Melbourne for 2023
Vegans and lactose-intolerant folks, your ability to access iced confectionery goodness just leapt up a giant notch. Over The Moo, innovative Sydney creators of dairy-free ice cream, are set to launch their very own vegan ice cream truck. And, to celebrate, they'll be giving away free goodies. You heard us, free ice cream. If you're in Sydney, get down to the Over the Moo headquarters on Thursday, March 2 from 6.30pm to indulge. You won't be able to miss the 1981 Ford Transit truck, which has had a fun, retro makeover. At the launch, you'll be treated to beer, Prosecco or cocktails, accompanied by vegan cheese boards and dips. Then, of course, it'll be time for the sweet, sweet goodness to roll out. Gear up for sundaes loaded with brownie bits, cookie chips, gooey sauces and sprinkles — all entirely dairy-free. Also on the menu are classic cones (vegan too, "all the wow without the cow" according to the team), topped with Over the Moo's nine signature flavours – from Ginger Ninja Karate Choc and Matcha Made in Heaven to mmMangooo and Vanilla Bean Missing You. Once the launch is done and dusted, you can expect to see the truck popping up all over the place — fingers crossed for interstate road trips too. Whether you're making all the moves at your favourite festivals or kicking back at the beach, keep an eye out. Want to head to the launch? It's happening on Thursday, March 2 from 6.30pm at OTM HQ, 62 Glebe Point Road, Glebe. RSVPs required imthere@overthemoo.com.au.
Get your hands on some high quality art, craft and furniture, via a new online auction service that donates all of its proceeds to charity. Created with Care is the result of a partnership between maker community marketplace Handkrafted and artist-to-buyer platform Bluethumb. Launching earlier this month, the online auction room has recruited a select number of Australian artists and furniture makers, who are auctioning off unique, handmade pieces for charities of their choice. Visitors to Created with Care can currently place bids on five different items, including a 3D artwork by Erin Nicholls and Lars Laug, and a hand painted wooden bowl by Stephen Ziguras and Anne Ellison. A number of additional pieces will come up for auction in the coming weeks, with bidding on all items closing at 5pm on Friday, June 10. Nominated charities range from bushfire relief to animal rescue to asylum seeker aid. Current bid only $525... Furniture maker Ben Percy @benpercydesigns and artist Salleigh Olsen @salleigholsenart collaborated to produce this beautiful work of art - with all proceeds of it's sale to be donated to StreetWork, a charity helping young troubled teenagers turn their lives around. You can place your bid and explore more of the #CreatedWithCare16 collaborations we have curated together with @bluethumbart at www.createdwithcare.com.au Made by re-sawing solid American Hickory (donated by @britton_timbers) and as the seat and backrest are separately supported, the laminated legs 'flex' as individuals sit down. A photo posted by Handkrafted (@handkraftedco) on Apr 25, 2016 at 12:49am PDT "Every day I look at incredible art, yet these pieces are beyond my greatest expectations," said Bluethumb co-founder Edward Hartley. "They have set the bar for future artists and crafters." To see what's up for auction and to place a bid, visit www.createdwithcare.com.au.
Ronnie's prides itself as a vibrant Italian diner suited to any occasion and a place that exudes warmth and congeniality. Located inside a heritage brick facade in the heart of Melbourne, the interior is warm and airy with a relaxed and welcoming vibe. The staff here will serve you with a smile on their face while guiding you through the long list of pasta and unforgettable desserts. The starter menu includes dishes such as marinated olives, whipped cod and pickled mussels, while a serving of Adelaide Hills pork and fennel salami is not to be missed. For vegetarians, there's a roasted pumpkin salad with stracciatella and pumpkin seed dressing or their famous fermented potato focaccia. Pasta dishes include classics such as the spaghetti carbonara served with pancetta and the spicy fusilli alla vodka with whipped ricotta — this one is extra special. If you're after something more substantial then look towards the Southern Ranges eye fillet served with duck fat potato bake and green peppercorn jus. The dessert menu is especially impressive with choices including a baked cheesecake, chocolate torte, an affogato with Frangelico or Amaretto and limoncello float served with vanilla ice cream and lemonade. The wine list is another standout and easy to navigate, with a healthy list of wines by the glass including a Tuscan sangiovese, a Sicilian nero d'avola and some local favourites such as a Yarra Valley chardonnay. Images: Pete Dillon
Care for a cheeky cocktail looking out over Melbourne's pretty, pretty skyline? Melbourne has a shiny new rooftop bar. Opening at the just-opened QT Melbourne, this new addition to the CBD promises to serve up openair cocktails and brewskis from 4.30pm today. Details on the rooftop bar have been selectively hush hush over the last few weeks since the hotel's opening, but from 4.30pm today, the rooftop bar's secret will be out. To get to this high flying, just head to the hotel's front door and you'll be directed to the roof by staff — and there's no door charge. It's the cherry atop the hotel's cornucopia of food and drink offerings — check out our roundup of what you can inhale. Find QT Melbourne's rooftop bar at 133 Russell St, Melbourne, open seven days a week from 4.30pm to 1am. By Shannon Connellan with Kelly Pigram.
The National Gallery of Victoria has revealed its next impressive exhibition, A Fairy Tale in Red Times. Showcasing large-scale and never-before-seen works from Sydney's White Rabbit Gallery's collection, the exhibition will explore questions of identity and personal and cultural memory. Featuring 26 Chinese and Taiwanese artists from across two generations — the first post-Mao generation and a younger generation for whom the Cultural Revolution is ancient history — A Fairy Tale in Red is an examination of the dramatic generational change in Chinese society and culture, and its impact on contemporary art as well as, more generally, today's China. Works include Shi Yong's A Bunch of Happy Fantasies (2009) installation of upside down neon-lit Chinese characters and the eponymous A Fairy Tale in Red Times (2003–07): a collection of vibrant, large-scale photographs by husband and wife duo Shao Yinong and Muchen. Plus, pieces never exhibited before in Australia will be on display, including Zhu Jinshi's large scale immersive installation The Ship of Time (2018) made from 14,000 sheets of xuan paper, 1800 pieces of fine bamboo and 2000 cotton threads; and Mao Tongqiang's Order (2015), a stainless-steel installation shot repeatedly with bullets. The exhibition is a collaboration between White Rabbit's founder Judith Neilson and the NGV — and it's the first time the NGV will dedicate and entire exhibition to works from the Sydney gallery. Coinciding with White Rabbit Gallery's tenth anniversary and the release of a new NGV publication The Centre: On Art and Urbanism in China, the exhibition opens this week, and will run from May 3 until October 6. As a bonus, it's also free to enter. Images: Tom Ross.
Will a beloved icon ride off into the sunset, or will a last-minute reprieve save the day? It's a dramatic storyline worthy of enlivening The Astor's glorious single cinema screen; however for the past few years, such suspenseful questions have surrounded the Melbourne landmark's very existence. In August, the art-deco cinema’s fate was seemingly sealed, for worse rather than for better. Operator George Florence announced that the forthcoming calendar of screenings – running until March 2015, and including the usual array of cult and classic films alongside newer releases – would be his last, his reign ending when his lease expires. The sad developments provided the latest chapter in an ongoing dispute between Florence and the building’s owner, Ralph Taranto, with the two unable to agree on terms to continue the cinema’s operation in its current state. Florence has run The Astor since 1982. Taranto bought the site from St Michael's Grammar School in 2012, during the venue’s last closure scare. Now, news has surfaced that Palace Cinemas could be the knight in shining celluloid cinephiles have hoped for. The Melbourne-based national chain is reportedly in discussions about leasing the cinema, and continuing The Astor’s operations largely untouched. Their plan includes the involvement of Florence. Palace’s custodianship would see The Astor to continue operating as a single-screen, 1,150 seat auditoria, with programming of both new release and classic films to continue and showing on 35 and 70 millimetre prints as well as 2K and 4K digital projectors. Palace Cinema's CEO, Benjamin Zeccola, is determined to keep the identity of the Palace intact for nostalgic reasons. "I am in love with the ambience and unique sense of cinema at the Astor, it reminds me of the Metro Malvern Cinema where I grew up and the loss of which still saddens me. So it is with a great deal of affection and nostalgia that we approach an arrangement between Palace Cinemas and the Astor," he said. "Palace Cinemas are keenly aware of the importance in preserving The Astor experience and, to that end, we see the business operating very much as it does today: one cinema, the continuation of the brilliant programming and maintaining the building in the art deco style in direct consultation with Heritage Victoria." Such a prospect is welcomed by everyone that has enjoyed the magic of movie-going at The Astor over the past 32 years. Whether catching a double feature of films missed upon their first release; dressing up and singing along to The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Grease or The Blues Brothers; or watching one of the many retrospective seasons focused on great directors or undersung masterpieces — all while devouring one of the venue’s famous choctops — The Astor has offered audiences a cinema experience unparalleled not just in Melbourne, but in Australia. The Astor's twitter account has advised that, "No formal agreement has been entered into, [but] we are hopeful for the future." Their hope is shared by their many fans and patrons. Watch this space. The Astor cinema’s current calendar runs from December 20 through to April 5, 2015. More program and development announcements will be made in early 2015. Via The Age.
The Gay and Lesbian Tennis Alliance has been working hard to queer up the Australian Open ever since it ran its first Glam Slam tournament in 2019. The team works in partnership with Tennis Australia to bring in LGBTQIA+ tennis players from around the world — providing a safe space for them to compete in their own tournament while also throwing a three-day party. And this year is just as big as ever — with 260 players from around 30 countries participating in the 2025 Glam Slam, which runs from Friday, January 24–Sunday, January 26. Players of all gender identities are welcome to join and play against others with similar skill levels. Moreover, to increase women's participation, the Glam Slam also has a women's division that's open to anyone who identifies as a woman. The Australian Open is the only Grand Slam tournament to run an event like this, which actively gives LGBTQIA+ tennis players a space to compete. To watch the Glam Slam games, punters simply need to purchase Australian Open ground passes and then find the matches on the outside courts. But it's not just about the competition. There's also a heap of special entertainment running across the three days, which lines up with the AO Pride Day on Friday, January 24. You'll find drag queens and kings, face painting and glam stations, DJ sets, and plenty of rainbow flags around the grounds. From 2pm on Sunday, January 26, you can even drop by the Grey Goose Courtside Bar at Court 6 to watch the Glam Slam finals as well as a celebrity match featuring Luke and Sassy Scott and a bunch of professional players. This is usually a time of the Australian Open when the outside courts are empty — as most games in the final few days are played in the arenas. Letting the Glam Slam team take over these outer courts and the surrounding spaces is a damn great way to use the space and keep the festivities going.
It's no secret that Melbournians love their craft beer, so when it comes time to visit the bottle-o we've always got our eyes out for something special. While craft beer selections are certainly expanding in most bottle shops, not all have as much variety as we would hope for. Well, fear not discerning beer fans: we've got your hit list sorted. MCCOPPINS Much loved by Fitzroy and Abbotsford locals, McCoppins has hundreds of different craft beers and a constantly rotating selection. Both international brands and homegrown heroes likes James Squire and Stone and Wood and are well represented here, so there's plenty to choose from. Another brilliant aspect of McCoppins is that they're open until midnight — the perfect saviour to every poorly-planned summer house party. 165 Johnston Street, Fitzroy (plus locations in Abbotsford and Hawthorn East — although HE's more food and wine-focused, not beer-focused), (03) 9417 5089, www.mccoppins.com.au BLACKHEARTS AND SPARROWS Although Blackhearts and Sparrows is best known for their excellent selection of wines, their beer fridges are also well stocked. The staff are incredibly helpful, even when you charge on in with no particular idea of what you want, they'll offer an expert opinion. We're yet to be disappointed with a single recommendation. They also have pretty solid relationships going with local breweries, so keep your eyes peeled for limited edition brews on their shelves. 113 – 115 Scotchmer Street, North Fitzroy (Plus locations in Windsor, East Brunswick, East St Kilda and Kensington), (03) 9486 8046, www.blackheartsandsparrows.com.au SLOWBEER The folks at Slowbeer are total pros — they run Australia's first bottle shop to be 100 percent dedicated to only selling craft beer. Slowbeer first opened in 2009 in Hawthorn and later moved to Richmond in 2012 to get closer to the action. Over 1000 different beer varieties have been sold at the shop over the years and, while they focus on local microbreweries, they also stock more obscure imports from breweries with cult-like followings from all over the world. They also do takeaway growlers full of fresh draught beer. Or, if you can't wait, you can even have a beer on premises at the Beer Cafe. 468 Bridge Rd Richmond, (03) 9421 3838, www.slowbeer.com.au VALLEY CELLAR DOOR Yes, another bottle shop that was once predominantly known for its wine selection. However, the popularity of craft beer has inspired Valley Cellar Door to dramatically expand their drinks range, and we're sure glad they did. We love this Moonee Ponds gem not only because of their excellent selection, but because you're welcome to stay and have a pint. They have five taps that rotate monthly and are usually determined by the climate. Right now, they have JP's Red Ale, 4 Pines Hefeweizen, Holgate 'Big Stein' Marzen and Red Hill Brewery Kolsch, but this lineup is likely changed by the time you've read this. Cheers! 18 Hall Street, Moonee Ponds, (03) 9370 2000, www.valleycellardoor.com.au. CARWYN CELLARS Specialising in small boutique producers, Carwyn Cellars is an excellent choice if you want something a little bit different. From Kooinda to Red Duck, they like to support local talent — we love Murray's Whale Ale for something seriously drinkable. They stock approximately 200 craft beers and, in case you were wondering, their beer of the month is Sideshow Brewers Ticket Booth Pale Ale right now. The good people of Carwyn Cellars are also very aware that summer festival season is right around the corner; they stock craft beer cans so you can enjoy the festivities in style. 877 High St, Thornbury, (03) 9484 1820, www.carwyncellars.com. HARVEST WINE AND LIQUOR Tucked away in Northcote, this little treasure is dedicated to finding and supplying delicious and interesting beer, wine, cider, and spirits. The staff are super friendly and keen to help you find the perfect brew to match your mood, your food, or the temperature outside. They stock Victorian brewers such as 3 Ravens, Temple and Red Hill, as well as Feral Brewing from Western Australia, Murray’s from New South Wales and Burleigh Brewing Company from Queensland. 207 High St, Northcote, (03) 9482 5868, www.harvestwine.com.au. TRU BRU If you like your beer super fresh and you're all about recycling, Tru Bru may be the one for you. Tru Bru only serve their stock in reusable, take-away growlers (two litres) or half-sized one litre 'squealers'. They stock a range of beer, cider and soda, and usually have 20 drinks on tap for you to choose from. They often favour local brews like those from Mornington Peninsula Brewery, and have even recently tapped limited releases from Hargreaves Hill Brewing Company and Brookes Beer. Bonus: they've also been known to give gluten-free beer a trial. 3/9 Yarra St, South Yarra, (03) 9826 6878, www.trubru.com.au. Want to brush up on a few craft beer basics before buying? Check out our Bluffer's Guide to Craft Beer.
James Bond taught us that the sexiest, most luxurious drink in the world is a martini (shaken not stirred). There's something innately cool about the combination of vodka and vermouth that will elevate your life from everyday monotony to instant luxury. It's a tricky cocktail to master as it doesn't hide behind sugary syrup or gimmicky garnishes — it's just two quality alcohols with a simple twist of lemon or an olive. We've partnered with Grey Goose, one of the most luxurious brands of vodka you can get, for our series of guides that are helping you discover the luxury in your city. This one is for martinis — it's the most decadent cocktail you can sip on. Start ticking off the martinis at these ten bars, or if you're on a budget, grab a bottle of Grey Goose and take it home to make your own. SAINT CRISPIN Collingwood's Saint Crispin is the ideal place to visit if you want to double the luxury and sip on a martini alongside a serving of divine food. The ultra-luxurious establishment is packed with old-world style, it serves classic, smooth martinis alongside their Instagram-famous food. THE EVERLEIGH Gertrude Street staple, The Everleigh, is another establishment that serves up a fierce martini, albeit in bottle-form. They're famous for perfecting the art of the take-away cocktails and serve bottled up martinis that won't disappoint (just FYI, you can also enjoy them in house and keep the cute bottle as a keepsake). EAU DE VIE Eau De Vie, an elegant cocktail bar on Malthouse Lane, is the ideal venue for a Grey Goose martini. Not only do they have a make your own martini menu, with your choice of additions like of brine, ruby grapefruit, thyme, angostura, lavender (the list goes on), your drink is served up with liquid nitrogen to keep it perfectly chilled. Nice. HEARTBREAKER The Everleigh's saucy sister bar, Heartbreaker, also reps the martini-in-a-bottle concept along with her own particular brand of glamorous melancholy. Heartbreaker is the perfect setting to enjoy a sulky martini and mourn lost love while smashing some old-school tunes on the jukebox. PANAMA DINING ROOM You know a place means martini business when they offer a house martini. Hidden away in a loft on Smith Street, Panama's famous pour features smoked Grey Goose vodka, mushroom vermouth, brine and olives so it's practically a meal in itself. And for dessert? A Grey Goose vodka espresso martini, of course. GIN PALACE There's long been debate about the merits of vodka vs. gin in a martini — whatever side you're on, you have to try both before you decide. Gin Palace obviously specialise in the latter. Once you choose your poison, you'll be served your martini in a quiet, intimate lounge where (and this is the biggest novelty of all) you won't have to yell over the music to be heard. Now that's sophistication. LILY BLACKS Lily Blacks are old school in the way they approach cocktails. You can expect impeccable service and a no-nonsense, classic martini (no jam jars or unconventional garnishes here, no sir). The cosy little bar, conveniently close to Parliament station, will enchant you will it's familiarity, so don't be surprised if one martini turns into half a dozen. WOODS BAR AND KITCHEN Previously named the Woods of Windsor, this gem will require you to hot foot it to the south side. The gorgeous dark mahogany interior is luxurious as it possibly can be (be sure to wear your fanciest cane and top hat), and the range of cheese plates on offer will compliment your dirty martini perfectly. MISS FOX DAY SPA This one is a little bit unconventional, but Miss Fox Day Spa offer a huge range of top-drawer booze that you can enjoy in between spa treatments. They do a fantastic range of experimental martinis with Grey Goose vodka (Turkish delight martini anyone?) for those Friday nights when you want to truly relax and work on your beauty regime, but also want to slam back martinis. Why not do both? 1806 COCKTAIL BAR In you look up old school glamour in the dictionary, you'll most likely be directed straight to 1806 cocktail bar on Exhibition Street in the CBD. The red velvet, dark leather and twinkling chandeliers all scream "order a dirty martini and the pork crackling with orange salt!" You should definitely listen to them. Not keen on a martini? Answer four simple questions and Grey Goose Vodka's discover function will tell you what cocktail you're perfectly suited for. Discover the luxury in your city with our Luxe Guide. Top Image: Steven Woodburn.
There can literally never be too many Spanish restaurants. In fact, it's Concrete Playground's dream to see every street lined with them and for life to become a neverending string of eating tapas and drinking Spanish wine. For these and other ham-related reasons, we’re incredibly excited that Chato, a bright and authentic Spanish eatery, has just opened in Thornbury. Chato has moved into their new digs on High Street and is warming up the suburb with an authentic Spanish winter menu — mixed in with some Australian staples. Chato translates to ‘a small glass of wine’, but the dishes on offer are in no way small or stingy. The breakfast menu is a balance of basics (eggs any way with sourdough, $9.50 and toasted museli with poached fruit, $12.50) and a few Spanish inspired dishes, including torrijas (brioche dipped in vanilla and lemon milk and lightly fried, $12.50) and Flamenca (eggs cooked in a chorizo and tomato ragout and topped with serrano ham, $16.50). While traditional Spanish food is very much ham-based, Chato offers many vegetarian dishes as well as gluten-free option, so it sounds like there’s a dish here to suit everyone. The lunch menu includes a menu de dia (set menu of the day, $19.90) and anyone who’s visited Spain will understand how authentic this is — most restaurants offer a set menu to delight tourists and regulars alike. Alongside traditional paellas and empanadas, the menu also boasts a solid selection of bocadillos, which is basically a Spanish-style sandwich. We're keen to try the lomo, which consists of grilled marinated loin of pork with shallow fried bell peppers ($9.90). Bueno. Best of all, Chato is run by Darebin locals Maria and Jenny Echevarria-Lang, who source their produce from local, free-range — so you can eat with a clear conscience. But better get in quick, because we expect this place to pack out faster than you can say “Bring me all of your ham!” Chato is located at 921 High Street, Thornbury. Open Sunday to Wednesday 8am-3pm; Thursday to Sunday 8am-11pm. Call 9484 9554 for bookings. Images: Eugene Hyland.
Vivid Ideas is bringing innovative humans from all over the world to Sydney stages. Championing change-making creative voices, you can hear Troye Sivan explore beauty and fluidity, delve into the experiences of those who were raised in cults with filmmaker Sarah Steel or listen as experts discuss the ethics and potential ramifications of a future reliant on artificial intelligence and QR codes. Joining a lineup that's not lacking a lick in talent is Gretchen Carlson in conversation with Lisa Wilkinson. The prolific journalists and media personalities will dissect power (specifically the fallout when it's out of balance), toxic workplace culture and finding the courage to expose wrongdoing. As well, the pair discuss the intricacies of what's needed to make it easier for people to come forward after experiencing sexual assault. In 2016, Carlson — the highly respected and acclaimed US journalist and ex-Fox News anchor — successfully sued Fox founder and CEO Roger Ailes for sexual harassment. This win, which inspired 2019's Bombshell, saw Carlson receive an unprecedented apology and settlement. The landmark case laid the foundation for the #MeToo movement's catapult to the global consciousness, as well as take down a predator who was in a position of immense power. [caption id="attachment_813274" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Vivid Sydney 2019, Destination NSW[/caption] Bound by an NDA, Carlson has tirelessly fought to break the culture of silence and remove protections from perpetrators — working to ban NDAs, enact legislative change and encourage survivors to share their experiences of harassment (which has resulted in the most significant changes to labour laws — passed by Joe Biden in March, 2022 — in over 100 years). The trailblazer was also named in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People in the World (2017). With a social climate that's been immersed in the courage of those sharing their stories of trauma in the quest for justice and a safer existence — the Grace Tames, the Brittany Higgins, the Saxon Mullins — the pair will discuss the shifting media and legal landscapes both here and in the US. They will look at what still needs to change so survivors are encouraged to draw upon reserves of bravery and resilience to keep pushing forward — for the good of others, for safer communities and to upend the status quo. Sydney's Town Hall will host Gretchen Carlson and Lisa Wilkinson on Speaking Out on Sunday, May 29 at 1pm. Head to the website for details. Top image: Destination NSW
Have you ever wanted to be the very best, like no one ever was, a Pokémon master in real life? Stop lying, because the answer is obviously GOTTA CATCH 'EM ALL GET THE HELL OUT OF MY WAY. Well now you can, thanks to Pokémon Go, a new augmented reality mobile game that lets you capture and train virtual Pokémon right here in the real world. Out now in Australia on Android and iOS devices, the game uses your smartphone's camera and sensors to 'detect' when wild Pokémon are near. You'll find different Pokémon depending on where you are — for example, you're more likely to encounter a water-type Pokémon near a body of water. You can join teams, trade Pokémon with other players, and battle for control of gyms. You can also visit notable locations around your city, such as public monuments, where you can stock up on PokéBalls and other necessary items. In addition to the app, Nintendo have also developed the Pokémon Go Plus, a small device that can be worn on your wrist and lets you play the game without having to look at your phone. Which is probably a good idea, since the last thing you want to do when battling a wild Charizard is accidentally walk in front of a bus. Pokémon Go is free to play, although there are in-app purchases available. Of course the most important piece of information is that the game only includes the original 150 Pokémon, making this the perfect time to bust out the following: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMk8wuw7nek
"Live for the day, and let tomorrow take care of itself" — words spoken by the bushranger Captain Melville himself. We love this, a perfect excuse to overindulge in good food and a beverage or two. Captain Melville, the venue named in honour of the great bushranger, is a place to do just this, where relaxed pub food is taken to the next level and a solid drinks menu makes you want to have that second tipple. Remember the live music venue Miss Libertine? A little dark, loud, and could make you lose time? Well, she is no longer. This is where Captain Melville has taken root. The same team from the Miss Libertine days has shaken things up with a light, open, and modern interior, fit for the grown-up food and drink they are dishing up. The food here is tasty, upfront, and honest. Start with a mini bratwurst dog with sauerkraut and German mustard ($6.50) or an oozy, rich taleggio croquette with tomato and fennel chutney ($4). If in the mood for sharing, don't go past the salt and pepper squid with black garlic aioli ($16). Generous pieces of squid pack a real hit of flavour. The quinoa salad with asparagus, broad beans, yellow beets, shanklish, and honey yoghurt ($16) is a beautiful accompaniment. If you're looking for a meal in itself or not up for sharing, go for the Bannockburn free range chicken parmigiana with coleslaw and hand-cut chips ($23) or perhaps one of the five steaks on offer. Captain Melville isn't shy when it comes to the drinks list. They are here to play. The focus here truly is 'drink local'. The wine and beer lists are almost all Australian, with a couple of international guests thrown in there. Even the spirits stay local where they can, with 666 Vodka, West Winds Gin, and Tromba Tequila all making an appearance. Speaking of spirits, Captain Melville is fond of a cocktail or two. Sore head? Try the Clunes Rose Gold ($17). Described as "the ultimate hangover cure", it is a mix of bourbon, Bartender rose syrup, fresh lemon juice, cream, white cacao, egg white, and fizzy pink grapefruit juice. Perhaps in the market for something with a little more kick? Try the "hard as coffin nails" Macedon Gang punch ($16) — Cruzan rum, lemon juice, bartender agave, egg white, port, and Booker's Fire Bitters. Cheers to living for today.
Want to sample some of Australia's most unique cocktails, rub shoulders with the bar teams that made them and feast on delicious canapes in one of Sydney's glitziest inner city bars? Australia's obsession with bar teams and their unique concoctions has been realised in a nationwide competition run by Auchentoshan, dubbed Distilled Different. Twelve of Australia's best bar teams have created a cocktail incorporating Auchentoshan American Oak — the only triple distilled Scottish single malt whisky in the world. They're going head-to-head to win bragging rights and a huge team trip to Glasgow. Before the winner is crowned, all 12 bar teams will appear in the national Dare to be Distilled Different photography exhibition. Their talented faces and creative cocktails have been captured by three up-and-coming photographers, all chosen by Art Pharmacy. It's a photography exhibition centred around bartenders and cocktails — of course there's going to be a big party. Auchentoshan are throwing a big launch for the exhibition on Tuesday, October 18 at Sydney's swish Gilt Lounge at the QT, and we're giving away 20 VIP double passes. You'll get to sample unique Auchentoshan cocktails, enjoy delicious food, experience the photographic exhibition, as well as the chance to rub shoulders with the crew associated with the project — including some of Sydney's best bartenders. Enter below. [competition]591029[/competition]
Have you ever watched Groundhog Day and found yourself thinking, "this is all ace and amusing, but I wish a masked murderer was running amok?" Have you ever settled down for Edge of Tomorrow and decided that the whole thing really could use some spooky college hijinks? If your answer to either of those questions is yes, then horror-comedy Happy Death Day just might be the film you're looking for. Here, reliving the same day comes with laughs, scares and a very determined killer. Sorority sister Tree (Jessica Rothe) is the character caught in a loop, but becoming a better person or stopping alien invaders isn't her aim. Instead, she just wants to work out why she keeps ending up dead — and, obviously, to figure out how to avoid it. Each day plays out the same way: she wakes up in the dorm room of a classmate, Carter (Israel Broussard), who she assumes she drunkenly hooked up with, before shuddering when her roommate Lori (Ruby Modine) tries to give her a birthday cupcake. Going to class, house meetings, ignoring her dad, getting ready for her own surprise party — nothing is particularly out of the ordinary. Or rather, it seems that way until she's brutally attacked, then finds herself doing it all over again. Given Hollywood's fondness for repetition, it's surprising that a film like Happy Death Day didn't happen earlier. There are plenty of elements here that movie fans will recognise — and that's not news to director Christopher Landon (Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse). This is a flick that's well aware that Groundhog Day exists, and that the slasher scenario has been done to death (note the sly references to "Monday the 18th"). It's also knows that the Scream franchise has already found the thrilling and funny side of calling out and exaggerating genre tropes. Still, don't underestimate how far a playful tone and knowing approach can go in this situation. Producer Jason Blum is something of a horror maestro these days, backing the Paranormal Activity and Insidious franchises as well as this year's hits Split and Get Out. Keeping that successful run going, his latest takes to its satirical task with glee — think slick, montage-heavy visuals, an upbeat vibe and soundtrack, and absolutely no misapprehensions about the sort of entertaining, tongue-in-cheek movie that it wants to be. Thanks to the great work of Rothe, Happy Death Day also boasts an impressive central performance. Focusing on an attractive young woman fending off a bad guy is hardly new territory given the picture's chosen genre, but the actress last seen in La La Land portrays her protagonist as more than just a victim in waiting. After starting in Mean Girls territory, her zest and take-charge attitude matches that of the movie. As such, audiences should have no qualms about watching her experience the same day again and again — even if the film itself doesn't necessarily warrant repeat viewings. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ENyivsLb_g
Most people dislike the daily grind, but can art tell us what sort of impact our professional lives actually have our psyche? That's what Mark All As Read sets out to explore at Blindside Gallery with the exhibition presenting a critical gaze into the physical and virtual space of the office and the world of productivity. Taking over both galleries at Blindside, local artists Nick Modrzewski, Nabilah Nordin and Katie Paine show through a variety of creative mediums and expressions the effect of work on the body, and what might be gained or lost from working within a professional space. Each artist offers their own perspective on the subject, with Modrzewski combining exploring power hierarchies through painting, sculpture, performance and more, while Nordin works with various found and discarded materials. Finally, Katie Paine's work features installation and collage to create immersive artworks reimagining the office experience. Mark As Read is on now at Blindside Gallery, showing until Saturday October 21.
Gauchito Gil is Argentina's Robin Hood. As such, it seems fitting that Australia's own Malbec World Day has been borrowed from the South American country, where the majority of the world's malbec comes from. If this day is a donation from the grape god, it's one we're happy to accept. After a successful four years, Gauchito Gil is once again bringing Malbec Day to Melbourne with a five-hour wine bonanza at North Melbourne's Meat Market on Sunday, April 23. The event comes from the organisers of the Pinot Palooza and Game of Rhones, and mirrors the free-reign tasting set up. Your $60 ticket will include a wine glass, and from there you'll be able to move around, sampling over 60 Australian, French and Argentine Malbec varietals. Other events have been known to get a little boozy, so to soak up all that wine there will be top-notch empanadas from Rockwell & Sons, San Telmo, The Mill House, Gertrude Street Enoteca and Alejandro Saravia's soon-to-open CHE — all vying for the prestigious Golden Empanada award. It really doesn't matter if you know everything there is about Malbec or if you don't know much at all, because Malbec World Day is about education and celebration of the Argentine grape. And what better way to celebrate than with an bottomless glass of wine?
You may have thought your days of hanging out in car parks were over, but this Melbourne music event aims to change that. Play On brings a unique combination of live classical and electronic music to the underground car park at the Collingwood Housing Estate and, after launching late last year, they are back for three Friday nights on March 24, March 31 and April 7. The event presents classical music outside of traditional performance venues, making it both an accessible and pretty magical experience in a space that welcomes music lovers from all walks of life. The first event will see Tchaikovsky's joyful 1980 work Souvenir de Florence played by the Play On Collective, followed by a DJ set from local producer Prequel. Tickets are $15 presale or $20 on the door. Images: Alan Wheedon.
It just wouldn't be a celebration of Melbourne food culture without a big ol' BBQ feast and this year's Melbourne Food and Wine Festival is set to play host to a very special, low-waste porcine project. For a while now, the sustainable food warriors at Grown & Gathered have been raising a pig on scraps from the Fancy Hank's kitchen and grain by-product from their local brewery. Fast forward to April 3, and this little pig is going the whole hog, as the Fancy Hank's team prepares a feast using the entire animal, cooked over charcoal and open flame. That'll be teamed with a hearty spread of sides, salads, and preserved goodies from Grown & Gathered's own cookbook, natural wines from their farm, and even a brand new seasonal beer from a Melbourne brewery.
For those who like their comedy tinged with a little melancholy, Michael Workman is the stand-up for you. Over the past couple of years, the West Australian comic's strange and occasionally bleak (but always entertaining) sets have been amongst the best things on offer at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. His latest routine is titled Nothing You Do Means Anything, and is billed as "manic", "frightening" and "the most iconoclastic show" of his career. In other words, don't expect his outlook to have gotten any sunnier. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll question your place in a cold, unfeeling world. Sounds like a fun night out, right?
There are some shows that you know you need to see based purely on the name. Assisted Suicide: The Musical is one of them. Written and performed by disability rights campaigner and actor Liz Carr, this "TED talk with showtunes" arrives on our shores following sell-out engagements in the UK, at a time when Victorian state parliament is gearing up for a conscience vote on euthanasia. Carr's toe-tapping production for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival will provide a personal, entertaining perspective on a controversial subject, and may well force a few audience members to confront their own beliefs and prejudices.
UPDATE, September 11, 2020: Colossal is available to stream via SBS On Demand, Google Play and YouTube Movies. It may feature a giant creature lumbering around Seoul, but Colossal isn't your typical big predictable monster movie. In fact, there are plenty of refreshing ideas scurrying around within the latest film from writer-director Nacho Vigalondo, who previously taunted Elijah Wood through a computer in Open Windows, and now saddles Anne Hathaway with a lizard the size of a building. Come for the Godzilla-scale antics; stay for an insightful exploration of the destructive tendencies that lurk within us all, as well as an unexpected celebration of female empowerment. When we first meet Hathaway's aimless, out-of-work writer Gloria, she's a partying mess. Tired of her drinking-all-night ways, her boyfriend Tim (Dan Stevens) kicks her out, sending her fleeing from New York City to her empty childhood home. Though it has been decades since she lived in the small town she grew up in, it doesn't take long for her to catch up with former school pal Oscar (Jason Sudeikis), become boozing buddies with him and his friends (Tim Blake Nelson and Austin Stowell), and take a job at his bar. Binging and benders come next, as does the news that a monster has been wreaking havoc on the other side of the world. How Colossal expands its concept from there is one of the many joys best discovered by watching, but it's hardly a spoiler to say that battling demons, both internal and external, sits at the heart of the film. Connecting a trainwreck of a character with a gargantuan reptilian critter doing more damage than a railroad disaster mightn't be the subtlest metaphor, and yet Vigalondo ensures that the link between the two does more than just hammer home an obvious point. Indeed, examining just how one influences the other inspires narrative twists and emotional revelations, giving the movie the heart and smarts to match the size of its towering central figure. Just as it does with its creature feature premise, though, Colossal takes its underlying ideas a step further. Noting that humanity – collectively and individually – can be as ruinous as a hulking kaiju is really just the beginning. It doesn't escape attention that Gloria is surrounded by a bunch of ostensibly well-meaning men who all think that they're helping; realising just how large a shadow they're casting upon her life is crucial to the story. Indeed, this movie doesn't just tear down a city. It attempts to topple gender politics as well. Monsters, male domination and manoeuvring around both provide meaty food for thought, as well as a whole heap of meaningful material for Hathaway and Sudeikis to play with. Actually, their casting is a stroke of genius. Clearly given the lead role with a knowing awareness of how polarising she can be with general audiences, Hathaway fleshes out a protagonist who initially seems a stock-standard flurry of flaws, bad decisions and grating traits. Sudeikis also gets to toy with his usual persona, dissecting a character that seems on the surface like the kind of likeable nice guy he's played many times before. Just like the creature they're dallying with, however, there's more to each of them than it first appears. It takes a particularly inventive way of thinking to weave all of the above together, and to deliver a mighty fine monster flick at the same time. Vigalondo's brain is clearly wired in just the right way. His love for all things kaiju shines through every time his creature makes an appearance, visually boasting more in common with the genre's B-movie roots than its slick Hollywood incarnations. Still, his affection for his intelligent concept and empowering message stomps harder. Talk about a colossal effort. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOMp9sscNVc
The finest purveyors of poultry this bird-brained city has to offer will flock their way down to the Food Truck Park in Preston for a three-day festival of finger lickin' fowl. Following the success of their inaugural run back in November last year, the second ever Big Chicken Festival will once again deliver exactly what it promises on the label. Namely: chicken. Lots and lots and lots of chicken. While the full vendor lineup is currently being kept under wraps, last year's roster gives us a pretty good idea of who to expect. C'est Chick, Copa Food Truck and Roadrunner Fried Chicken all shape up as possible inclusions, while beverages will be taken care of by the folks at Barry's Bar. The feathers fly from 5pm until late on Friday, and again from noon on Saturday and Sunday.
My yoga studio has a basketball court below it. During a calming session of yoga, it is not uncommon to hear the piercing screech of a whistle, frequent cheering and the intermittent shrieks of "Great shot Mike!". One time, I kid you not, there was a marching band procession going down, and the instructor had to calmly try and talk over the incessant drumming. Quite un-zen. Flow After Dark Silent Disco Yoga seeks to give yoga enthusiasts the exact opposite experience. How exactly does one silent disco yoga? Quite easily with the introduction of wireless headphones. These bad boys give participants a one-on-one with instructor, Flow Athletic co-founder Kate Kendall, while simultaneously pumping out beats from Sydney DJ James Mack. Also, they're neon. This one-off, 90-minute Vinyasa yoga session will see a whopping 400 yogis come together at Melbourne Town Hall It's probably your best (possibly only) chance to show off your best warrior pose while simultaneously listening to some seriously smooth music. Silently.
If you know your burgers, you've probably heard of Sydney's Bar Luca (and their takeaway spinoff BL Burgers). You probably know to avoid their Instagram when you're hungry because their insane burger creations simultaneously fill you with food lust and terror. But, mostly, burger-loving Melburnians avoid Bar Luca because our love is unrequited as they have yet to open an outpost on our turf. But no more! They'll be popping up for three heart-stopping days in Melbourne, giving us all a chance to fall in love with their famous burgs and have our heart broken (or ruined by cholesterol) all in one weekend. After an appearance at the Melbourne Burger Invitational at Welcome to Thornbury on Thursday, April 6, the Sydney burger masters — helmed by husband and wife team James and Sarah Robbins — will be getting cosy at South Wharf's Boatbuilders Yard for three afternoons, from April 7–9. So. You've been warned. Start training to prepare yourself for their signature Blame Canada, which puts beef patty, maple-glazed streaky bacon, American cheese and poutine (yes, poutine) between a bun — the burger voted "most" by almost everyone in Australia.
Seven years ago Dustin Hoffman, himself a former chemist, issued a stinging rebuke of the increasingly 'dumb' science fiction movies making their way onto our screens. Laziness was at the heart of his complaint, as he accused writers of opting for meaningless techno-babble instead of taking the time to invent intelligent solutions to their characters' scientific problems. Hoffman even went so far as to help sponsor the Science and Entertainment Exchange in order to promote films deemed to respect scientific principles and debunk those which are unrealistic. It wasn't that sci-fi movies couldn't have action in them, he explained, they just needed to ensure the sci remained the prevalent part. Arrival, the new film by Sicario and Prisoners director Denis Villeneuve, is a movie of which Hoffman would be proud. Beginning conventionally in the vein of an Independence Day or The Day The Earth Stood Still, the film opens with the sudden arrival of twelve mysterious alien spaceships in various locations around the world. Yet rather than launch an attack, they sit curiously idle, as the humans debate their origin and intent. Rather than focusing on action, Arrival instead veers much more towards the themes of Sphere (which starred Hoffman) or Contact, in that the world's scientists, rather than its soldiers, form the core team around which the story revolves. Fronting the US team are Dr Louise Banks (Amy Adams), America's foremost linguistics expert, and Ian Donnelly (Jeremy Renner), a theoretical physicist. Their goal is singular, yet phenomenally complex: figure out how to communicate with the aliens and convey one simple, critical question: "what is your purpose here on earth?" What follows is a fascinating study in language, history and non-verbal communication, where variables and complexities in even the most rudimentary grammatical expressions become seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Add to that the paranoia of military and CIA liaisons (Forest Whitaker and Michael Stuhlbarg, respectively) whose focus rarely extends beyond fears of an invasion, along with the vicissitudes of international diplomacy wherein sharing and cooperation are considered hallmarks of weakness, and you find in Arrival an intensely engaging, cerebral and often gripping sci-fi thriller. Based on the cult novella "Story of Your Life" by Ted Chiang, Arrival blends sumptuous cinematography with weighty abstractions that, for the most part, land with an assured touch. Glimpses into Louise's personal life raise questions about time and our linear perception of it, and only rarely does the script indulge in the kind of corny musings traditionally found in freshman philosophy essays. Adams's performance is the clear standout, around which her supporting cast plays it with impressive reserve. The score by Jóhann Jóhannsson, meanwhile, shifts effortlessly between beautiful and bombastic. Intelligent and restrained, Arrival is a welcome addition to the sci-fi canon that wows you with its brains rather than simply its special effects. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFMo3UJ4B4g
Peer into the murky world of government surveillance and modern combat, with this season of eye-opening documentaries at ACMI in Fed Square. Running from October 13-25, the Lies and Secrets program features four fascinating non-fiction films that will leave you shocked, appalled and more than a little bit paranoid. The centrepiece of the season is Alex Gibney's Zero Days, a critically acclaimed tale about the unintended consequences of cyber warfare. Alongside it filmgoers will find Sonia Kennebeck's National Bird, which screened at this year's Melbourne International Film Festival and concerns the secrecy surrounding the US aerial drone program. The remaining films focus on the war on the ground. Jim: The James Foley Story tells the tale of the photojournalist of the same name, whose public execution signalled the emergence of the Islamic State. Finally, The Land of the Enlightened takes audiences on a seven year journey through war torn Afghanistan, where the actions of foreign fighters shape the lives of the next generation.
Odds are you might not have heard much about director Meera Menon's latest film, Equity. It's a story about the plight of women on Wall Street, written by and funded by women. It's not as glamorous as The Wolf of Wall Street, nor as dramatic as Wall Street. But then again, maybe that's the point. Anna Gunn plays Naomi Bishop, who is basically just Skylar White if she was on Wall Street instead of the Albuquerque 'burbs. The story begins just after Bishop botches a major IPO ('initial public offering' for your info – don't be that guy, Googling during the movie). Bishop is a ball breakin', money lovin' banker who needs a big win to secure a promotion and gain back her colleagues' confidence. Her specialty is finding Silicon Valley tech start-ups and hand holding them through their IPO. It's slow burning narrative, with a focus on the developing relationship between Bishop and her protégé Erin Manning (Samantha Megan Thomas). All the while the fabric is being poked by Samantha Ryan (Alysia Reiner), a detective looking into allegations of insider trading. Don't be deceived by the Wall Street veneer. At the heart of this film is a tale as old as time – women getting dicked around at work. The story is about gender politics, morality, feminism and the difficult paths that women tread while navigating a world dominated by men. It's gritty in the sense that it's often ugly and mundane. Anna Gunn is great – although not particularly sympathetic – as the picture's driven protagonist. The rest of the cast, meanwhile, offer subtle and realistic representations of womanhood that are so sorely lacking in other films. With an all-female production team, including its trio of writers, Equity circumvents other problematic patterns too. You won't find any romantic dramas at the centre of the female character's lives. There's no pointless nudity, and we're glad to say that the film passes the Bechdel test with flying colours. But perhaps most refreshing, Equity doesn't use the female cast and crew angle to drum up any brownie points. Instead it just walks the walk, unapologetically giving jobs, screen time and funding to a mostly female cohort. It's a feminist film in every sense of the word. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xg2TSp5tJy4
With a lot of the shows at Melbourne Festival, it's hard to get an idea what to expect from the name alone. But that's certainly not the case with Haircuts by Children, in which brave volunteers (if you're one of them, you can register online) will be placed at the mercy of pre-teens with scissors. Conceived by Canadian artist Darren O'Donnell, the work explores the extent to which we are willing to trust and empower future generations. Held over two weekends, the first pop-up haircut station will be held at Razor Dolls in Windsor on October 15 and 16 before it moves to Fur Hairdressing in Fitzroy for October 22 and 23. The upside? You get a free haircut. The downside? There's no guarantee it'll be any good. Image: John Lauener.
Contemporary dance meets figure skating in this critically acclaimed show from Canada's Le Patin Libre. Five skaters will take to the rink at the O'Brien Group Arena (aka that ice skating rink in Docklands), where they'll trade sequinned outfits for streetwear and a pulse-pounding soundtrack. On ice from October 15, Vertical Influences shapes up as one of the most intriguing dance works on the program at this year's Melbourne Festival. Just make sure you bring a coat, because things could get a wee bit chilly. Image: Zoé Anne.
Join the salami army at the 2016 edition of this gastronomic gathering at Northcote Town Hall. Now in its fifth straight year, think of the Melbourne Salami Festa as Woodstock or ComicCon — but for salami. So way better, is basically what we're saying. Running from 10am until 10pm on Saturday, October 8 and 10am to 6pm the next day, the event — a bona fide cured meat carnival — will include workshops, demonstrations, DJs and bands, as well as a Grand Salumi Hall featuring dozens of producers from far and wide. Meatsmith and D.O.C. are just a few of the locals who'll be carving up their wares. Wander between the stalls and sample what's on offer, before returning on the Sunday to cast your vote in the highly coveted People's Choice Awards. Image: Brown Shoes Productions.
To celebrate the launch of their brand new exhibition Fashion Artists — which features more than 35 of their most iconic haute couture creations — master fashion designers Viktor Horsting and Rolf Snoeren will appear in the flesh for one night only at the National Gallery of Victoria. Set to take place at 6.30pm on the evening of Friday, October 21, Victor&Rolf in Conversation will see the Dutchmen weigh in on their work in a discussion with the exhibition's guest curator, Thierry-Maxime Loriot. Expect the conversation to cover the duo's passion for 'wearable art' as well as some of their most memorable shows from the course of their illustrious two-and-a-half decade career. Tickets to this exclusive event will include entry into the exhibition itself, which runs from October 21 until February 26.
ACMI is unveiling a spooky new virtual reality experience just in time for Halloween. Premiering on Saturday, October 29 as part of Melbourne International Games Week, Ghosts, Toast and the Things Unsaid forgoes the traditional VR headset in favour of a ghost costume, as viewers peer into the corporeal world from beyond the grave. A partnership between Google's Creative Lab, Sandpit and Grumpy Sailor, the 16-minute piece puts you inside a haunted house…one that you yourself are haunting. There you'll learn the deepest darkest secrets of Steve and Maude, a couple whose relationship is slowly falling apart as a result of the desires they can't bring themselves to share. Deep and spooky stuff. Entry into Ghosts, Toast and the Things Unsaid is free, however bookings are highly recommended.
Towards the end of Victoria and Abdul, Judi Dench's face fills the frame during an extended speech. For the second time in her career she's playing Queen Victoria in a film about the British monarch's relationship with a servant. Whereas 1997's Mrs Brown saw her bonding with Billy Connolly, this time the 19th century sovereign has forged a strong platonic bond with Indian Muslim clerk Abdul (Ali Fazal), but her son (Eddie Izzard) and staff are none too happy about it. Cue a memorable dressing down delivered by a figure well-aware of her power and responsibilities, as well as the type of scene designed to garner awards nominations. That's Victoria and Abdul in a nutshell. The latest regal flick from The Queen's Stephen Frears, it's the kind of film that knows where its strengths reside, and how viewers are likely to react. That's not to downplay Dench's formidable talents, or her ability to inhabit Queen Victoria's many shades and depths. Indeed, she's the best thing on screen. But there's no ignoring the fact that Frears has plunged the beloved actress into a decidedly average historical drama that isn't always worthy of her talents. Despite taking its inspiration from real life, Victoria and Abdul sticks closely to a familiar culture-clash formula. Typically, one of two things happen when folks from different stations in life meet in a movie. Either they get along nicely, but their connection isn't met with the same fondness by those around them, or, after a rocky start, they're forced to learn from their differences. When Abdul is picked to journey to Britain to present the queen with a ceremonial coin during her Golden Jubilee celebrations, the film seems destined to take the second path. Then he breaks protocol by making eye contact with the monarch, she's intrigued by the good-natured newcomer in her midst, and before long they're facing off against institutionalised racism. While Dench plays Queen Vic with considerable texture and nuance — more than early scenes seem to indicate, in fact — the feature around her doesn't share the same fortune. There's a difference between probing engrained prejudices and just presenting a scenario filled with them, with Victoria and Abdul taking the easier, latter option. Adapting the book of the same name by Shrabani Basu, screenwriter Lee Hall (War Horse) keeps things light and simplistic when it comes to scheming naysayers, cultural disharmony and Abdul himself. Given that the film supposedly sets out to dispel racist stereotypes, the fact that Abdul is portrayed as a jovial, exotic outsider who helps Victoria get her groove back is more than a little bit troubling. Where the film succeeds is as a misty-eyed ode to friendship. As Rose-tinted as much of the lavishly shot movie proves, it thoughtfully and tenderly conveys the effect that having someone to talk to, and to listen back, can have. The rapport between Dench and the spirited Fazal helps, ensuring that Abdul remains an engaging presence, even if he's flimsily written. Their time together mightn't delve deep into the intricacies surrounding their characters, but Victoria and Abdul is at its best when its stars share the screen. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtC8jNHSxgQ
A singles party, you say? Sounds like something your well-meaning friend drags you along to, that always goes awfully and ends in you getting Lord of the Fries on your own. However, Punch, Drunk, Love is a singles party with an integral twist: it's a ladies-only affair with the intention of meeting new mates, rather than dates. Hosted by event curators The Lonely Hearts Club, the event will run on the afternoon of the AFL Grand Final public holiday. Things will kick off with a 45-minute boxing class, closely followed by boozy times, a cheese platter picnic and talks on Love and Life. It's the ultimate you-day, combining exercise, relaxation, inspiration and a few new gal pals. Speakers will be love expert Emily Chadbourne, life and relationship coach Megan Luscombe and wellness/lifestyle/meditation guru Sam Tallent. It'll be a day of advice, stories, and like-minded ladies for you to find your chillest self with while knocking back some vinos. You (single ladies) will be putting your hands up as high as you can.
Victoria has a brand new winter festival — and it'll deliver both brightness and darkness. The first comes courtesy of the town of Bright and its source of tasty brews, Bright Brewery. The second stems from dark beers, their beverage of focus on July 1. At Darker Days, you'll head to one to enjoy the other. Enjoying the best tipples the craft brewers of the High Country Brewery Trail have to offer is the aim of the afternoon festivities, running from 1pm to 10pm, with Black Dog Brewery from Taminick, Blizzard Brewing from Dinner Plain, Bridge Road Brewers from Beechworth, Sweetwater Brewing Co from Tawonga South and Nightingale Alpine Cider all be in attendance. As well as bringing together quite the range of beverages, there'll also be warm foods, roasted chestnuts, gooey marshmallows, live music and maybe even ghost stories. Plus, making sure everyone is really feeling toasty, there'll also be a ceremonial bonfire, burning a giant wooden structure in the shape of the brewery's logo.
Looking for new threads? Sure, you can head to plenty of markets around town and trawl through food, homeware and other objects, or you can mosey along to Melbourne's dedicated ladies fashion get-together. Round She Goes does one thing, and it does it well. If it's clothing, accessories and jewellery you're after, you'll find it here. Filled with preloved designer and vintage fare, the one-day happening will take over Coburg Town Hall from 10am on June 4. This edition will boast 60 stalls, all specially curated by organisers to deliver reasonably priced, high-quality bits and pieces, and ranging from beloved brands to handmade items to clear-outs by some of Melbourne's most fashionable women. Entry costs $2, and when you're finding that shiny gold coin to get you in the door, make sure you did up some other cash as well. Cold, hard currency is preferred here, and parting with it will be worth it. Your wardrobe will thank you for it.
Winemakers of Rutherglen have been doing good things with grapes for a while now out in northeast Victoria. But, luckily for us, they've decided to come city-side this August for a three-day, one-off wine event, Rutherglen in the City. The pop-up bar will situate itself in Driver Lane, which is just off Little Bourke Street behind Emporium in Melbourne's CBD. Winemakers will take over the whole laneway, transforming it into a 'winter winery' — you can expect fairy lights, free wine tastings and live music. So you can forget you're sandwiched in between shopping centres and dream of open plains and vineyards. You'll be able to sample the wine varieties of the region (Muscat and Durif), meet the winemakers themselves, and maybe even order a few bottles from the cellar door. The best thing about it is you won't even have to drive home — thanks to trams and trains, you can have as many wines as you like. The pop-up cellar door will be open Friday from 5–10pm, Saturday from 12–11pm, and Sunday from 12–6pm.
If you've got a penchant for things in buns, prepare for the ultimate feasting situation, at Dandenong Market's National Burger Day celebrations, this Sunday, May 28. For one delicious day, 13 of the market's vendors are turning burger mad, and will offer their own limited edition riffs on the classic two-hand feed. Running from the savoury to the sweet — and repping a host of different cuisines — these clever creations will take your burger obsession to the next level. You could find yourself cosying up with a goat curry burger, biting into a burger-inspired cupcake by Melina's Bakery & Larder, or perhaps tucking into Osaka Kitchen's teriyaki sushi burger, with sushi rice in place of the usual bread bun. Dandee Donuts will even be doing a Tim Tam burger, with a Tim Tam, jam sauce and cream inside a hot doughnut. Those with real game can even take a seat on the official Burger Day Throne (actual thing) to try their luck against the monster Freak Force Burger. This is a four-patty whopper designed by Melbourne's burger Instagrammer Damian Edgan (@damoforce) and imagined by the market's own burger-slinging bosses, The Grill. Conquer that to score yourself a commemorative trophy, or go into the draw to win $500 in market vouchers every time you get your 'burger passport' stamped by a vendor on the day.
In 1947, one country became two and the world was forever altered. Following centuries of governance by the British, India was divided into distinct, independent territories along religious lines. One would still be known as India. The other would become Pakistan (and later, Bangladesh as well). Unsurprisingly, it was a massive task requiring significant contemplation and causing considerable repercussions, both for the officials charged with overseeing the partition, and for the locals who would be forced to live with the change. Such a chapter of history seems an obvious candidate for a dramatic film treatment — and that's just what Bend It Like Beckham's Gurinder Chadha delivers, stepping through the upheaval and exploring just how the two groups coped in such a turbulent period. But while she focuses firmly on the emotional toll of the partition, it's hard not to think that the director has actually missed the best story. Viceroy's House concludes on a rather touching personal note, explaining that Chadha's own grandmother lived through the events depicted on screen. Frankly, you could be forgiven for wishing she'd told that tale instead. Instead it's the last British head of India and his staff that drive the narrative of Viceroy's House. Accompanied by his wife Edwina (Gillian Anderson) and daughter Pamela (Lily Travers), Lord Louis Mountbatten (Hugh Bonneville) tries to negotiate an arrangement for the future of the sub-continent that keeps the various conflicting parties and his English superiors happy. Meanwhile, within Mountbatten's luxurious Delhi mansion, servant Jeet (Manish Dayal) yearns for his childhood sweetheart Aalia (Huma Qureshi), a situation complicated by the fact that he's a Hindu and she's a Muslim. Accordingly, a quest to determine the shape of two nations and a Romeo and Juliet-style affair combine, albeit somewhat awkwardly at times. Jumping between bureaucratic manoeuvring and matters of the heart isn't always packaged with the smoothest transitions, and doesn't give either side of the story much depth. Nevertheless, Chadha's main aim, of examining the ramifications for the country as well as its people, is successfully achieved. The film wrings most of its feeling from its many contrasts, be they ideological, political, religious or romantic. Standard as it all might be, Viceroy's House still proves a handsome effort. Think lush visuals and a rich score, plus fine performances. Downtown Abbey's Bonneville stays nicely in familiar territory, while Anderson couldn't be more enjoyable to watch. She mightn't be the movie's main star, but she's given the job of embodying its chief message of rising above prejudice and finding the right path in times of turmoil. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4ZnofZJCD8
Are you looking for an opportunity to battle with your friends, but lack the stamina for a high octane game of lawn bowls? In the answer is yes, sedentary friend, we've got a Good Beer Week suggestion that we reckon will be right up your alley. Kaiju! Beer is teaming up with CBD Japanese restaurant Izakaya Chuji for an evening of board games, beers and delicious Japanese food. From Risk to Settlers of Catan, there'll be games of every persuasion, and, of course, you're more than welcome to bring your own. No flipping the board in a drunken rage if you lose though.
Burgers. Giver of life. Mana from heaven. We're pretty keen on this most glorious of food groups – and given how many new burger joints we've seen pop up around town, it seems like you are too. Hell, last year Hank Marvin Market's first ever Burger Biannual drew more than 5000 hungry punters. So, really, it's little wonder they're gearing up for round two. Firing up from 11am on the Monday, March 13 Labour Day public holiday, this year's event will feature more than a dozen of Melbourne's best burg merchants, including Fancy Hanks, Kustom Burgers, Mr Burger, Brother Burger, Gorilla Grill, Sliders on Tyres and Burn City Smokers. They'll even have a vegan burger courtesy of the crew at Rawbeet. Burgers truly are for everybody. Assuming you have room for dessert, you'll also have the run of a number of sweet options from the likes of Little Big Sugar Salt, Whoopies Cookies and Pop-Up Crepes. Collingwood's Stomping Ground will be pouring beers and Canine Wellness Kitchen will make sure your pooch is fed too. Point is, you probably won't need to eat for the rest of the week. Image: Shara Henderson.
UPDATE, March 8, 2021: Hidden Figures is available to stream via Disney+, Foxtel Now, Google Play, YouTube Movies and Amazon Video. Every parent tells their child to dream big. Unfortunately, for many people, a world of factors conspires to stop their hopes and aspirations from coming true. For the three women at the centre of Hidden Figures, the forces blocking them from fulfilling their potential aren't just obvious — they're quantifiable. Faced with both institutionalised sexism and institutionalised racism, friends Katherine (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy (Octavia Spencer) and Mary (Janelle Monáe) know exactly what's holding them back. But, as smart, savvy human computers at NASA's Virginia headquarters in the segregated 1960s, they're also driven to find a solution. Based on a real-life tale that most won't have heard before, and sending its spirited leading ladies on a fight for equality, Hidden Figures is exactly the kind of movie that you think it is. It's warm, broad and certain to please. It's designed to rouse and entertain as it sheds light on an overlooked part of history, with soft colours and an upbeat soundtrack. It brings together an engaging cast who prove endearing individually and even more so when their affectionate rapport is in the spotlight. Most of all, though, it combines all of the expected elements together just as anyone could easily predict, and still manages to be a thoroughly good watch. Katherine, Dorothy and Mary crunch numbers in the same department, share rides to work and spend time together with their families after hours, but it's ambition in the face of oppression that truly unites them. On any given day, they're expected to be grateful for their jobs, while constantly being underestimated, undermined, ignored, overlooked, and made to use separate bathrooms and even coffee pots. That's a struggle, especially in a place that wants to defy the accepted order by putting a man on the moon. Each of the three have their own goals: Katherine wants credit for her crucial efforts when she's moved into the team trying to send an American beyond the earth; Dorothy seeks the supervisor title and pay raise that goes with the tasks she's already doing; and Mary is trying to take the classes she needs — at a white's-only school — to become an engineer. There's not much surprising about the way that writer-director Theodore Melfi (St. Vincent) brings Margot Lee Shetterly's non-fiction book to the screen, but honestly that's fine. In fact, it's rather apt. It's the sparkling individual components that comprise the ideal equation here, rather than any attempt to craft a new formula. Besides, just the fact that this story is being told at all is kind of revolutionary. Space movies and films about maths geniuses are a dime a dozen, but they're usually about one type of person: white men. Not here. A few pop up — Kevin Costner is memorable as Katherine's boss, while Big Bang Theory's Jim Parsons plays the colleague constantly putting her in her place — but, refreshingly, this isn't their movie. Instead, it belongs to the women of colour at its centre. Played with vibrancy that matches the feature's own mood, there's nothing hidden about the core trio of black female mathematicians. Their real-world determination, infectious spirit, and the fine performances behind them, ensures that Hidden Figures adds up to something really special.
MIFF might not be here yet, but your year of good films is just beginning. The annual Sphere Peninsula Short Film Festival is set to kick off on the first weekend in February in Rosebud, showcasing the efforts of some of the best filmmakers in the country. Along with film screenings, the three-day program includes workshops and pop-up cinemas — and, of course, the big ol' opening night do. What began as a small event in 2011 is now a mainstay of the Peninsula which brings thousands to Rosebud each year. Twelve films are shortlisted and screened, then judged by a celebrity panel of judges, and there's up to $30k to be won by the brightest sparks. Held on the Village Green in Rosebud near the foreshore, entry to the main event on Saturday, February 4 is free — just BYO rug, follow the crowd and come for some bite-sized film entertainment to go with your bite-sized food truck snacks. They're also holding a ticketed opening night event on the Friday with a screening of Australian film Boys in the Trees and a Sunday afternoon session with Constance on the Edge director Belinda Mason. Image: Yanni Delaportas.
Mindfulness practice — achieving the mental state of focusing on the present moment — is gaining popularity as people attempt to regulate their stressful lives. People have turned to everything from meditation to colouring books to achieve mindfulness, but perhaps few people would think of doing a triathlon to achieve inner peace. Take three activities that promote mindfulness — specifically running, yoga and meditation — and you've got yourself a 'mindful triathlon'. Wanderlust 108 has been running these triathlon festivals since 2014, and the standard day has a few main components. First, there's the five kilometre run, although the site reassures you that you can walk instead of running — or even "prance, skip, stroll or strut" — as long as you reach the finish line. After that, theres 75 minutes of yoga accompanied by a DJ set, and finally 30 minutes of meditation to round out the whole-group activities. Once the structured section of the day has wrapped up, participants can also head to activities such as aerial yoga, acroyoga and hooping, or to lunch. It's part exercise, part dance party, part fest — and 100% focused on helping attendees feel great inside and out. Also on the agenda: walking meditation, essential oil classes and the Mindful Marketplace, which will help you take your new blissed-out state home with you. By Siobhan Ryan and Sarah Ward.
