That soothing feeling that sweeps over you when you spy a cute canine, spend too much time watching internet cat videos or even just spot a picture of a newborn animal — that's the feeling at the heart of Australia's newest wellness sessions. Sure, you've been to kitten yoga and puppy pilates, and they're both great. But we're guessing that you haven't tried meditating with baby goats or getting mindful with soft, cuddly lambs. After launching in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast, Karmably's cuddly classes have come to Melbourne. During them, you'll attempt to find inner bliss while surrounded by rescued baby farm animals. In short, it's the best way to de-stress when life's got your goat. After all, who can remain overwhelmed, exhausted or annoyed when they're sharing their chill-out session with actual goats? The classes focus on relaxation techniques, like Breathe In & Bleat Out, which gives you an idea of just what's in store. Those heading along can expect three parts to the session: mindful stretching, meditation and snuggling the four-legged participants. If you're wondering where the concept came from, it was inspired by organiser Berenice Tan's own experiences trying to find something other than the usual mindfulness classes within Australia. Tan began to research animal therapy and, after learning of the benefits (and realising that everyone loves cute critters), her sessions with goats, lambs and even piglets were born. The bliss goes both ways, too — with Karmably not only helping humans to relax in a fun manner, but also assisting animals in need. Tan works with sanctuaries, rescue centres, and organisations such as Harmony Hooves Healing Hearts and ABC Animal Farm. They both raise baby creatures who have either been rejected by their mothers or lost their mums in other ways, and hand-rear them until they can be adopted out as pets to families who live on suitable properties. Tickets to the first lot of June and August classes completely sold out, so you'd be best to snap some up to the Saturday, September 14 class ASAP. Updated: August 26, 2019.
When Dr Jane Goodall volunteered to live among chimpanzees in Tanzania's Gombe Stream National Park, newspaper headlines were dismissive. Nearly 60 years later, the pioneering primatologist is world-renowned for her groundbreaking research — highlighting how closely connected humans are to our closest living relatives. Having dedicated the past six decades to her ongoing study, animal welfare in general and conservation, Goodall has lived a vastly fascinating life, which she'll be chatting about when she comes to Australia in May 2019. Goodall will appear at Jane Goodall: Rewind The Future event, which heads to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday, May 11. The session will feature a 40-minute lecture by Goodall about her work, followed by a conversation between Goodall and a host for the same duration. Topics certain to get a mention include just how revolutionary her findings were at the time — and the impact they still have now — as well as her connection with the resident primates of Gombe. You can also expect Goodall to discuss her subsequent efforts to fight against threats to African chimpanzee populations, such as deforestation, illegal trade and unethical mining operations. Indeed, wildlife and environmental conservation is the main aim of the Jane Goodall Institute, which she founded in 1977. The Jane Goodall Institute Australia and Think Inc. are behind her 2019 Aussie trip.
Let's face it. Shopping at this time of year can be a form of slow torture. But we have something that'll make braving the crowds worth it. From Tuesday, December 18 to Monday, December 24 (otherwise known as 'crisis shop week'), David Jones is offering up free drink and food tastings. So, if you're in the Bourke Street store, hunt down the pop-up for free sips of Mumm Grand Cordon, Chivas 18 scotch and St Hugo shiraz. Along with the tipples, there'll be food pairings to revive you for the rest of your shopping expedition. And, while you're there, you can cross a few names off the present list. The new release Mumm Grand Cordon bottle is only available at a handful of locations around Sydney, including the little pop-up you'll be stationed at. This might just be the solution to the yearly question you and your siblings ask each other: what should we get mum and dad? The Champagne, Whisky and Wine Tasting Station will be open from 12–3pm daily at David Jones Bourke Street, until Monday, December 24.
In 1997, Christmas changed. With a single episode of Seinfeld, the world became privy to a new form of holiday celebration that eschewed other traditions and denominations. Instead of a tree, an unadorned pole gets pride of place. Rather than share happy stories, everyone gathered airs their grievances. And, instead of settling down on the couch after a hearty meal, attendees compete in feats of strength. Okay, so maybe you still enjoy tinsel, turkey and street cricket with your family on December 25. Even so, Richmond's Uitgang Bar is making sure you can have some Festivus fun as well. The pub's shindig takes place on Saturday, December 22 and the official Festivus date of December 23. In keeping with tradition, there'll be an airing of grievances led my owner Fraser Rettie, so you can air yours and be infuriated by everyone else's, and a Festivus pole. Not so Seinfeld are the $5 pots, $7 schooners and $9 pints available all weekend and the free sausage sizzle on Sunday. Festivus Weekend will run from 12pm–11pm on Saturday and 12pm–8pm on Sunday.
MPavilion is currently in the midst of its biggest arts program to date, featuring 400 free events across a massive four-month program. And throughout January, the striking space is set to come alive with a range of free eclectic musical performances. First up, you can end the week in style with Friday Night Fiestas. Taking place between 5–7pm every Friday, this happy hour shindig allows you to catch an exciting lineup of local DJs and musicians for free — and with a drink in hand. Friday, January 18 will see Brisbane-based independent record label Tenth Court drop into town and showcase what they elegantly describe as "the wealth of beautiful scumbag talent inhabiting Australia". But the free music doesn't stop there. Polito: A Crimson Audiovisual Lanscape will showcase two duos of collaborators, Robert Downie and Finnian Langham of Polito and performers Arabella Frahn-Starkie and Hillary Goldsmith of Visual Display, in an engrossing improvisational event. Happening Saturday, January 12 from 9–10pm, the groups will respond to each other's on-the-fly creations, generating a highly rhythmic experience. The following Saturday, beloved indie label Bedroom Suck Records presents the third and final instalment of its Music in Exile program. Melbourne neo-soul duo Caseaux O.S.L.O will join creative forces with Amadou Suso, frontman of the Senegambian Jazz Band, and explore the commonalities between hip-hop, ancient musical traditions and storytelling. Finally on Sunday, January 27, Jewel Box Performances will present emerging opera singer and songwriter Jessica Hitchcock. Having recently collaborated with the likes of Jessie Lloyd's Mission Songs Project and Deborah Cheetham's Short Black Opera, Hitchcock will perform songs at MPavilion from her upcoming solo EP — set to be released in May 2019. And, to get you in the mood for these weekend performances, don't miss out on a bit of early morning exercise with Hip Hop Yoga Brunswick. Classes run Fridays at 7.30am and will have you flowing through 45-minutes of groovy hip-hop and R&B. For more information on MPavilion's extensive summer program, visit the website.
You've danced the night away to 'Good Luck', 'Do Your Thing' and 'Romeo'. Every time you hear it, you can't get 'Where's Your Head At' out of of your head — or the monkeys from the song's music video. But when it comes to electronic music duo Basement Jaxx, we're guessing there's one thing you haven't done. If you've never seen the British act play live with an orchestra, here's your chance. On Saturday, April 13, Basement Jaxx Vs The Metropolitan Orchestra will take over the Margaret Court Arena for a night of reimagined bangers. Expect all of the group's floor-filling hits, but expect them to sound rather different. And, as well as sharing the stage with Sydney's The Metropolitan Orchestra, Basement Jaxx will also have singers Vula and Sharlene Hector pumping out vocals.
Whether you're a lifelong vegan, your dabbling with going without animal products for Veganuary or just love your veggies, Asian street food masters Rice Paper Scissors have the summer feast to fill your hungry stomach. One Saturday a month, the Fitzroy eatery is serving up a vegastation. It's a vegan-only degustation, although that's pretty clear from the name. On January 12, February 9 and March 16, you'll sit down to at least ten plates of delicious dishes, including classic RPS bites, new additions and everything else that ticks both the vegan and yum cha boxes. And, your cruelty-free feast will set you back just $45 per person. Also on offer are vegan cocktail specials, vegan beers and organic wines — because a hefty meal like this deserves a good brew or drop to go with it. Bookings are recommended, but there's no set sitting times as long as you make a date between 11.30am–4pm.
"Why are you a problematic pop star?" filmmaker Steve Loveridge asks M.I.A. "Why don't you just shut up and make a hit?" she counters. The tongue-in-cheek exchange takes place in the opening minutes of documentary Matangi / Maya / M.I.A., but it couldn't better encapsulate the film's message. The world expects its singers, actors and icons to dazzle when they're performing, and then to keep quiet otherwise, as the backlash to any celebrity who states a political opinion continually demonstrates. But, from the outset, that was never going to be M.I.A. She was never going to simply make a splash on stage, appear meek and polite elsewhere, and keep her thoughts to herself. If you don't like that, she doesn't really care. Drawing upon home video footage filmed over decades, compiled by M.I.A.'s art school pal Loveridge and soundtracked by her songs, Matangi / Maya / M.I.A. is a statement. It's a warts-and-all portrait of the Sri Lankan-born British rapper, and obviously an authorised account — but it provides an in-depth chronicle rather than an easy, superficial celebration. The film wants to understand the 'Boyz' and 'Paper Planes' hitmaker, not venerate her. It wants audiences to experience her reality, and to see musicians as more than just famous figures. As the documentary follows M.I.A.'s personal and professional ups and downs, that's hardly a simple process. Born Mathangi Arulpragasam, called Maya by her friends and family, and known to the world under her stage name, M.I.A.'s tale has many parts, any of which could've furnished a film by themselves. If you've danced to her music, or watched when she gave the finger during her 2012 Super Bowl performance, but haven't ever peered deeper, then consider Matangi / Maya / M.I.A. an M.I.A. history lesson. She grew up in war-torn Jaffna until she was 11, when most of her immediate family fled to South London, leaving her Tamil Tiger father fighting at home. Adjusting to life as a refugee in Britain was far from easy, with her performative, provocative nature apparent in early clips. Originally, she actually studied to become a documentary filmmaker, however working for UK band Elastica brought her into the music realm. Scribbling down lyrics for Elastica lead singer Justine Frischmann, recording her debut track on a $300 keyboard, racing up the charts, pairing up with Diplo, singing with Madonna — all of this follows. So does M.I.A.'s first trip back to Sri Lanka, her social activism and plenty of headlines about her political leanings. Frequently seen chatting to the camera, and also giving the film its snippets of audio narration, the singer explains it all: "I had really strong ideas about what music I liked, what made me dance and what I wanted to say". In exploring what M.I.A. wanted to say — and how, and why — Matangi / Maya / M.I.A. takes its cues from its star. Busy and energetic, the doco flits from one chapter in her life to the next like it just can't keep still. That feeling is only heightened by the film's low-res footage, but the immediate, unpolished atmosphere is the entire point. In fact, it's increasingly the driving factor behind most music documentaries today. At a time when social media gives fans access to their idol's thoughts and feelings, movies are following suit. Not only do flicks like Amy, Whitney, Cobain: Montage of Heck and now Matangi / Maya / M.I.A. tell their subject's stories by using their own words, but they use every means at their disposal to convey the chaos and complexity swirling behind the fame. Of course, there's one key difference that distinguishes Matangi / Maya / M.I.A. from other recent music docos that rely heavily on personal, never-before-seen material. Unlike its peers, this isn't an account of tragedy. Instead, it's the movie that Amy Winehouse, Whitney Houston and Kurt Cobain aficionados wish they could watch, and that M.I.A. devotees and newcomers alike will find engaging and fascinating. From her defiant riffing with the director in the movie's initial moments, to her refusal to fit the labels thrust upon her through her career, this is a chronicle of the messiness that comes with being human — whether you're a hip hop star singing at the Grammys, someone fighting for a cause you believe in, or a woman trying to invest meaning in her life and actions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5dFKKhFmv8
Make a splash this Valentine's Day — or watch fish, penguins and plenty of other marine creatures literally splash about. On the day that everyone has romance on their mind, Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium is hosting a luxe dinner for lovebirds who also double as lovers of marine life. Running from 7–11pm on Thursday, February 14, the Sea Life Valentine's Day Dinner combines escaping into an underwater world, a spread of food and drinks, and an intimate vibe. You can choose from one of three locations, so prepare to get cosy by the coral tank filled with vibrant tropical fish, next to the oceanarium with its shark and stingray inhabitants, or in the penguin-filled Antarctica section. Being the (supposedly) most romantic night of the year, tickets don't come cheap, ranging from $149–199. That said, if you want to serenade your date while surrounded by seahorses, they'll certainly remember it. Everyone will be tucking into a four-course dinner, plus unlimited beer, wine, sparkling, cider, soft drink, juice and mineral water.
Drinking a beverage and watching a band ranks among life's simplest pleasures. Enjoying one of hundreds of craft beers and ciders from around 50 independent brewers and cideries, while being entertained by DMA'S, Something for Kate, Alex the Astronaut, WAAX, West Thebarton and new super group Loser — now that's how you take something great and make it even better. Ensuring a good time is had by all is part of the aim of the Beer InCider Experience, which is making the jump to Melbourne after five years in Brisbane. It's holding a one-day fest on Saturday, March 2, taking over the Melbourne Showgrounds with its showcase of brews and music, plus delicious food and fun entertainment options. Fixation, Gage Roads, Green Beacon, Balter, Hop Nation, Brick Lane, Coldstream, Killer Sprocket and Two Birds are among the (more than) 20 breweries that'll be quenching your thirst for lagers, ales and more, plus Golden Axe, Frank's, Ten Sixty One and others on the cider front. Expect collaborative beverages and exclusive brews made just for the day, plus local food-slinging folks helping to line your stomach, and even a bout of ping pong. Yes, this truly is the ultimate in drinks-focused festivals. Tickets start from $45 and are on sale now. Images: Beer InCider. Updated January 7.
When a relationship fails, sometimes it ends with fiery passion. Sometimes, love's spark fades slowly. And sometimes, the dying embers scorch the earth. Wildlife charts the downfall of a marriage that flirts with all three phases, all while forest fires rage on the outskirts of a small Montana town. As the physical flames carve a path of destruction, Jeanette (Carey Mulligan) and Jerry Brinson (Jake Gyllenhaal) let years of resentment, frustration and disappointment ignite into a heated blaze that threatens their family. As far as metaphors go, Wildlife's is certainly appropriate. Contrary to how it might sound on the page — obvious, or even clumsy — it's also delicately deployed. Adapting Richard Ford's 1990 novel, actor-turned-writer/director Paul Dano and his co-scribe Zoe Kazan make every moment of this portrait of domestic disharmony blister with aching sadness. Wildlife is a film of haunting pain that's often left unspoken, but that crackles with inescapable force and feeling. It's 1960 when the movie introduces its unhappily wedded couple, as well as their teenage son Joe (Ed Oxenbould). The trio has moved to Great Falls for Jerry's new job as a golf pro at a country club, although any hopes of a blissful fresh start dissipate when he's swiftly fired. Drinking away his discontent and rejecting any work that comes his way, he instead volunteers to fight the flames, leaving his wife and boy at home. Joe waits for his father's hopefully safe return, but Jeanette starts blazing her own trail. First, she gets a job as a swimming instructor to make ends meet; then, she openly has an affair with one of her students, car salesman Warren Miller (Bill Camp). There's another metaphor at Wildlife's core, stemming from its title. Often, the casualties of an inferno decimating bushland aren't human — they're the smaller creatures that get caught in its way. Dano paints all three of the film's key characters as scurrying victims engulfed by a roaring disaster, however he also makes plain that Jeanette and Jerry started this all-consuming emotional fire themselves. Stepping behind the lens for the first time, the Love & Mercy and There Will Be Blood star also extracts all-consuming performances from his actors. Gyllenhaal is a ball of tortured angst, desolated by failing to realise his dreams as a man, a husband and a father, while young Australian actor Oxenbould more than holds his own as the son who can only observe as his family turns to ash. But it's Mulligan, segueing from quietly bearing a life filled with emptiness to wilfully indulging her desires, that burns brightest, and hurts and seethes hardest. Alongside her efforts in acclaimed stage production Skylight, it's finely wrought, career-best work. Indeed, Mulligan's is the kind of performance that helps Wildlife conquer what could've been its biggest obstacle: that scenes from a crumbling marriage have been splashed across the screen many times before. There's such a spark to her portrayal, even when she's in tense and restrained mode, that earns the film its own place alongside greats of the marital woe genre like Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Blue Valentine and Revolutionary Road. That said, the same description also fits Dano's filmmaking, as he crafts a movie that overflows with emotion even when it couldn't feel more careful and meticulous. Just looking at its artful frames gives that very impression, with each deliberate, patient, mostly still image of nondescript interiors, smoke-filled skies and struggling faces proving as sweeping as the film's simmering sentiments. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00tyPOTDCG8
When Best F(r)iends: Volume One hit screens earlier this year, it was the film that had to happen. Tommy Wiseau and Greg Sestero couldn't just give the world the so-bad-it's-amazing gift that is The Room and leave it at that, after all. And thanks to the surprisingly watchable flick's name, we all knew what would be coming next: Best F(r)iends: Volume Two. Yep, the duo's first disasterpiece became the basis for Sestero's ace behind-the-scenes book The Disaster Artist, and then the oh-so spot-on movie adaptation of the same name — and now their second effort is wrapping up with its second part. Prepare to throw plastic gold teeth rather than plastic spoons at the screen, or just show up wearing a bloody shirt. If you want to say "oh hi" to someone, that's obviously allowed. For those that missed the return of Wiseau's long, greasy locks in Best F(r)iends: Volume One, it sees the world's most distinctive actor play a mortician, with Sestero also starring as a drifter who starts selling off gold teeth extracted from dead bodies. It's somewhat inspired by a true story, with Sestero writing the script based on a road trip he really took with Wiseau. The man forever known as The Room's Mark also says that Best F(r)iends: Volume Two his favourite thing he's ever done. If you're so filled with excitement that you feel like storming onto a rooftop and throwing a bottle, don't stress — just like the first part, the second film is coming to Sydney. It'll screen at the Cinema Nova at 6.40pm on Thursday, December 11. Even better, Sestero will be in attendance to answer all of your questions. Just don't ask him how his sex life is, obviously. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTu9N40E_MI
Halloween is reaching its creepy tendrils all over the city — and its fish — this October. On Friday, October 26, Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium will present a Halloween edition of Sea Life Nights — and if you had never considered cute little penguins aiding in your quest for a good night out, think again. While we think what lives under the sea (sharp-toothed sharks, spiny stingrays, giant octopuses, chainsaw-like sawfish...) is spooky enough, there'll also be zombie bartenders, roving performers and a costume competition. And you won't need to worry about side-stepping littlies either — it's an adults-only affair this time round. The $59 ticket price includes a cocktail and canapé on arrival, and four hours of exploring all the sea creatures (the event runs till 10pm).
There are many, many reasons to be excited that summer is just around the corner. Two big ones: beachside hang-outs and pool parties. So, if you've started thinking about swimwear, we have something relevant to your interests — renowned boho label Tigerlily Swimwear is holding a massive four-day warehouse sale, so get ready for some unprecedented bikini bargains. The Aussie brand has been around for just shy of 20 years and is still creating timeless prints and flattering shapes — and getting it 70 percent off makes it even better. This is Tigerlily's biggest ever warehouse sale with prices starting from just $30. Tigerlily collections from previous seasons will be on offer for you and your Vitamin-D-deficient body. And, it isn't just swimwear — playsuits, dresses, shorts, kaftans and other clothing will also be reduced to help you get your summer wardrobe sorted. The Tigerlily warehouse sale will take place at Functions on Chapel from November 1–4, running from 8am–7pm on Thursday and 8am–5pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Spooktober claims to be Melbourne's spookiest Halloween festival, so you know it has big things up its sleeves when it comes to giving you a fright. The St Kilda Town Hall set up will feature, over five days, an Escape The Swamp escape room, and two custom haunted house experiences called Coven and Phobia…. sounds like some real American Horror Story-type vibes over here, so be warned. Some of the festival is recommended for ages 12-plus as the scare level is rated 'extreme', but if you're an adult and you're still scared that's okay. There's a food truck park and a Haunted Spirits Bar so you can get some liquid courage into you, stat. Also on the lineup — keeping things a little more light-hearted — are nightly performance by drag queens HalloQueens. On top of all that, look out for games and costume competitions, Dr. Evil's Slime Lab, face-painting and free Wizz Fizz.
The Coburg Night Market will return for its ninth year and will take place over four Friday evenings from November 30 to December 21. Pop over for an al fresco meal and drinks before perusing the local artisan stalls set up throughout the evening. And once you've had your dinner, you'll find a show with live music running on two stages throughout the evening. One stage will be dedicated to local bands from Aarght Records, while the other will be occupied by Hope Street DJs. As always, there will be a vast array of food and and goods from a fully stocked bar on offer — the full food lineup will be announced closer to the market dates. The Coburg Night Market takes place at Bridges Reserve from 5.30 till 10pm.
Blue skies and scenic coastal sights will brighten Melbourne's cinemas between Wednesday, October 10 and Sunday, October 21, with the Greek Film Festival coming to town. Marking its 25th year, this showcase of Hellenic filmmaking will 16 features at Palace Como and The Astor Theatre — including ten brand new flicks and a six-movie retrospective focusing on Greek comedies. In the latest and greatest camp, the festival kicks off with World War II drama The Last Note, charting events leading up to the execution of 200 Greek war prisoners in the Chaidari concentration camp. At the other end of the fest comes something completely different with closing night's Smuggling Hendrix, about a man's attempts to rescue his runaway dog from the UN border between Greek and Turkish Nicosia. Elsewhere, viewers can see the latest Greek Weird Wave effort, Pity, which is co-written by The Lobster and Dogtooth co-scribe Efthimis Filippou — or check out Jamaica, about two brothers reuniting after a tragedy. Drama Happy Birthday takes inspiration from the street demonstrations that rocked Athens in 2008, while comedy-thriller Rosemarie follows a soap opera writer who borrows storylines from his real-life neighbours, and sequel The Bachelor 2 has been compared to The Hangover movies. There's also a touch of Australia in the lineup, thanks to Melbourne-set local flick West of Sunshine. After premiering at last year's Venice Film Festival, director Jason Raftopoulos' debut effort about a man trying to settle his gambling debts while taking care of his primary school-aged son has been doing the rounds of Aussie cinemas all year. The warm-hearted social realist drama also features a fantastic performance from Pawno's Damien Hill, who sadly passed away last month.
The tree-lined streets of Bendigo sometimes seem like they could be straight out of a royal parade. And when you consider Bendigo Art Gallery's latest exhibition, Tudors to Windsors: British Royal Portraits, that's actually quite fitting. Featuring more than 200 works loaned from London's National Portrait Gallery, this exhibition delves into the legendary figures and historical moments from five British dynasties — the Tudors, the Stuarts, the Georgians, the Victorians and the Windsors. Highlights include landmark paintings, photographs and sculptural works depicting King Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth II, King George III, Princess Diana and Prince William — among many others. You'll also find some personal effects on display, pulled from Historic Royal Palaces, the Fashion Museum in Bath and the Royal Armouries, including George IV's royal christening gown and the coronation gloves of Queen Elizabeth I (1558) and Queen Elizabeth II (1953). Opening Saturday, March 16, Tudors to Windsors: British Royal Portraits will allow you to stroll through 500 years of regal history and see works from many historically significant artists, including Sir Joshua Reynolds and Lord Snowdon (Princess Margaret's husband). The exhibition also adds a contemporary flair with more recent works by the likes of Andy Warhol, Chris Levine and Annie Leibovitz on display, too. And to celebrate this landmark exhibition, a number of activations fit for a king or queen will be popping up around the city. You can partake in a traditional high tea at The Vault Eatery, trace the steps of former royals on a historic CBD walking tour or take a train ride to Castlemaine in the same luxury carriages that Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles and Princess Diana once used. Meanwhile, the Royal Tram Pop-Up Cafe will take pride of place in the piazza, right beside the Alexandra fountain, which was opened in 1881 by Prince Albert Victor and Prince George. The tram will be festively kitted out with a Union Jack wrap and will serve coffee, tea, biscuits and more. Tudors to Windsors: British Royal Portraits will run from Saturday, March 16 to Sunday, July 14. Tickets cost $25. For more information and to book tickets, head this way. Images: Lightness of Being, 2007 (NPG 6963), Chris Levine; Barbara Palmer (née Villiers), Duchess of Cleveland, with her son, Charles Fitzroy, as the Virgin and Child, by Sir Peter Lely c.1664 © National Portrait Gallery, London; King George VI by Meredith Frampton, 1929 © National Portrait Gallery, London/private collection. Lent by Trustees of Barnardo's, 1997; King William III by an unknown artist, c.1695 © National Portrait Gallery, London; Queen Elizabeth I (The 'Ditchley' portrait) by Marcus Gheeraerts the Younger, c.1592 © National Portrait Gallery, London; Queen Victoria by Bertha Müller, after Heinrich von Angeli, c.1900, based on a work of 1899 © National Portrait Gallery, London.
The beloved Cameo Cinema will once again showcase some of the summer's most talked-about films on its magnificent outdoor movie screen under the stars. From November 29 right through summer, audiences will get the chance to nestle down in deckchairs and beanbags, with craft beer, homemade choc-tops and freshly popped popcorn in hand. If that's not worth the drive out to Belgrave, then we just don't know what is. The Cameo Outdoor Cinema summer program has us pretty excited — screenings have only been announced up until January, with February to April titles set to be revealed at a later date. The season includes big releases like the new live-action version of The Lion King, Margot Robbie and Saoirse Ronan in Mary Queen of Scots, The Frontrunner, Yorgos Lanthimos' surreal new one The Favourite and DC Comics' Aquaman. There is plenty for families, with Emily Blunt taking the screen in Mary Poppins Returns, the new How to Train Your Dragon and pre-Christmas screenings of The Grinch and The Nightmare Before Christmas. And for those after a little retro fun, Labyrinth, Die Hard, The Lion King and Matilda are also on the bill. It doesn't hurt that the Cameo concessions are a cut above what you'll find at your local shopping centre multiplex. They've got craft beer and boutique wines, edamame, and lollies from The Sassafras Sweet Co., to name but a few. Alternatively, you can bring a picnic of your own — this is one cinema where you won't have ushers pestering you about bringing in outside food.
Because we've all been so good this year, the Melbourne Gin Company are partnering with Patricia Coffee Brewers again to bring us a pop-up aperitivo bar, serving only gin and tonic concoctions. Every Friday until February 22, the MGC Summer bar will be open at Patricia from 5pm-8pm – a perfect window for wind-down drinks after a busy week at work. They'll be offering a range of four gin tipples on a rotating menu featuring mixers and syrups by local producers. MGC has also collaborated with the coffee brewers to create the Patricia G&T made with cold-drip filter. The point (not that a G&T pop-up really needs to justify its existence) is to teach gin lovers about the importance of garnish and tonic on the profile of your G&T. You can work out your perfect gin combo and, armed with this knowledge, never order a bad beverage again. All G&Ts are $12 with Melbourne Gin Company's Dry Gin or $14 with its just-released Single Shot gin.
We love gelato. You love gelato. Everyone loves gelato. But do you really appreciate it? Could you appreciate it more? When it comes to Gelato Messina's frosty sweet treats, you mightn't think that's possible. That's where their Gelato Appreciation Classes come in, however. For two hours on a Saturday morning — with Melbourne's next sessions scheduled monthly from February to October in 2019 — you'll get a double scoop of gelato goodness. We're talking about learning plus eating (don't worry, you'll actually get much, much, much more ice cream than just two serves). Taking care of the first part of the class, Messina's gelato wizards will talk you through the company's story, share their secrets and show you how it's all done. If you've ever wondered how they perfect their flavours or what goes in to making one of their delectable cakes, you're about to find out. Then comes the main event, and we speak from experience when we say you'll want to wear something loose and comfy. Eat your way through a five-course gelato degustation, with the menu specially created for each session. Taste as many of Messina's flavours as you can (you can even taste everything in the cabinet if you can manage it). Finally, take your pick of flavours for a take-home pack, and enjoy your weekend-long gelato coma. Sessions take place at Messina's Fitzroy shop, with tickets costing $160 per person. They're certain to book out fast — in fact, at the time of writing, only classes from May to October are still available.
UPDATE, September 4, 2020: High Life is available to stream via Stan, Google Play, YouTube Movies and iTunes. Another unique, distinctive and thrilling film by a stellar director. Another movie so impressive, it's instantly among the decade's standouts. And, another exceptional Robert Pattinson performance. We'd say that it's becoming a welcome trend, however this pattern has been recurring since RPatz stopped wearing sparkly makeup and fake fangs. Complain all you like about the Twilight series — we don't have much that's positive to add — but the vampire romance saga gave two of today's best young actors an enormous platform, as well as the currency to choose their next roles wisely. So both Pattinson and Kristen Stewart keep doing just that, and cinema is all the better for it. In the former's case, see the likes of Cosmopolis, The Rover, The Childhood of a Leader, The Lost City of Z, Good Time and now High Life. With his latest film, Pattinson rockets into space under the guidance of director Claire Denis, which proves a match made in movie heaven. In recent years, the future Batman star has increasingly cornered the market on existential yearning, a feat that the inimitable French auteur has also been pursuing since she first stepped behind the camera thirty years ago. There's a philosophical angle to both Pattinson and Denis' work, not just depicting the quest for purpose that drives us all, but delving into the intricacies and horrors of searching and struggling — as explored across multiple settings, stories and genres. Of course, there's no more apt a place than a spaceship to grapple with life's meaning, or lack thereof. Perhaps that's where Pattinson and Denis, either together or apart, were always headed. As their vessel charts a course for a black hole, Monte (Pattinson), Tcherny (Andre Benjamin), Boyse (Mia Goth) and the ship's other inhabitants bide their time doing what they're told. They're prisoners jettisoned into the great beyond in the name of punishment, redemption and science, although resident doctor Dibs (Juliette Binoche, star of Denis' last release Let the Sunshine In) has her own plans for the captives. That's the bulk of High Life's narrative, in a broad and linear sense. The film begins with Monte roaming the halls with just a baby named Willow for company, and pressing buttons every 24 hours to stay alive, adding a palpable sense of hellish foreboding to its already moody, brooding atmosphere. Also amplifying the movie's tone is its carnal obsession, and not just in the name of necessary procreation (a room dubbed the 'Fuck Box' is also onboard). With scripting assistance from both credited and uncredited co-scribes, including novelists Nick Laird and Zadie Smith, writer-director Denis teases out High Life's tale. Sometimes, the film gets caught in the minutiae of Monte and Willow's monotonous but happy-enough lives. Sometimes, it flashes back to the ship's busier, darker, more populous and tumultuous times. Sometimes, it ventures into memories on firm soil — recollections so steeped in nature, including thriving plant-life and scurrying animals, that the otherwise space-bound film always retains an earthy feel. Of course, it's that juxtaposition that sits at the heart of this immensely intelligent, ambitious and rewarding movie. To wrestle with human existence, and with our very purpose, is to realise that we're all careening forward in a state of constant chaos, hurtling towards inescapable darkness, all while trying to grasp onto whatever we can. Quiet moments spent chatting and contemplating in the ship's own garden; lustful encounters, both alone and with others; the need to connect, whether by sex, violence or love: as they each pop up on screen, they illustrate High Life's point. 'Illustrate' is a key word when it comes to Denis' work, as she has proven across her French-language career. High Life may be the director's first film in English, but her visuals have always transcended dialogue with their probing, patient stare — as well as the sensation that they're scrutinising everything in sight as deeply and carefully as possible. Here, clinical, institutional surfaces say so much when contrasted with babbling streams and sprouting leaves. They say even more when placed opposite bodies and fluids in all of their icky, sticky glory, and against ruminative faces with furrowed brows and eyes all a-flicker as well. While the movie boasts other acting highlights, including a no-holds-barred Binoche in her steeliest guise yet, it won't come as a surprise that Pattinson's restless gaze provides the film's favourite canvas. That said, Denis and her cinematographers Yorick Le Saux (Personal Shopper) and Tomasz Naumiuk (Nina) don't simply glare, but rather stalk, circle and glide around the picture's leading man. Denis's movie doesn't do much that similar science-fiction fare has, would and will, for that matter. But while shooting into the stratosphere to ponder what it all means has become a genre of its own, High Life proudly stands in its own space boots. Perhaps that's why both the film and Pattinson seem like such a perfect fit, and why the final product both soars high and burrows deep: you won't catch either meekly treading where everyone else has before. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZeIHrx7Oyc
Brunswick East's new artist cooperative C.O.M. Collective is hosting its first studio sale this month. Here, Melburnians can snag a host of ceramics, homewares, jewellery and fashion at bargain prices. Head down to the East Brunswick Village precinct display suite on Saturday, June 15 to get your hands on these artisanal goods. As is the C.O.M Collective mantra, everything for sale is locally made and are one-off original pieces by artists, designers and makers. On offer, you'll find a wide range of ceramics by several artists, including Lisa Peri, Dawn Tang and La Petite Fabrique de Brunswick. These homewares will be on sale alongside 3D prints by Alterfact, fashion by Wolf and Mishka, eco-bags by Soopa Bags and comics by HTML Flowers. C.O.M. Collective was created by artists Jennifer Conroy, Dawn Tang, Ben Landau and Lucile Sciallano, who also work out of adjacent container studios (which guests can visit during the sale). The collective moved in to the area six months ago as part of the EBV precinct's growing public arts program. The sale runs from 10am–3pm and entry is free. If you show up hungry, Egyptian food and coffee will also be available for purchase by the precinct's resident cafe, Chapt Two.
What do Vue de Monde executive chef Justin James, critically acclaimed floral artist Hattie Malloy, and the structural engineering team behind the Sydney Opera House have in common? They all collaborated on Sensory Experiments, an astounding, ambitious, one-of-a-kind social experiment-performance art cross that's guaranteed to challenge your mind and engage every one of your senses. Billed as both a "manifesto for sensory intelligence" and a "fleshy live experience", the hyper-immersive work will be open for a single day at the heritage Norla Dome in Dockland as part of Melbourne Design Week. So what can you expect? Upon entering the silent, cold room, you will be me with an elaborate floral installation specially designed to captivate eye and nose alike. From there, you'll be led deeper into the installation to taste edible art (petals are on the menu) and witness (and participate in) a series of performances choreographed to soundscapes designed by the team behind the most iconic venue in Australia. It's set to be a real journey — so come prepared.
The Mornington Peninsula wine region produces some mighty fine pinots, and its many producers come together to celebrate these tasty drops every Labour Day weekend. Join them at the Flinders Yacht Club on Sunday, March 10 from 12–3pm and try the best of the bunch. It's like Pinot Palooza but by the sea. All tasters are included in the $40 entry ticket, as is a Riedel tasting glass. If a taste just isn't enough, though, glasses and bottles will also be available for purchase. Apart from the wine, there'll be pop-up food stalls from George Bass Cafe, Calamari Brothers, Harry's Conchilia and Flinders Sourdough. You'll be kept entertained by Melbourne guitarist Rob Papp, and the club's annual yacht race, which will also take place on the day. Tickets are available online or at the door until sold out.
Come Friday, March 22, it's time for a night at the museum — but you won't find Ben Stiller roaming the halls here. Rather, given what'll be on display at Queensland Museum at the time, the revelry will feel a little out of this world. Walking, talking, drinking and partying like you're on the moon is on the agenda at QM's latest After Dark shindig, which is all about soaring beyond the earth as part of the museum's NASA — A Human Adventure showcase. There'll be music, drinks and demonstrations — plus attendees will get free reign, peering not only at the a whole host of exhibits about space featuring more than 250 items, including pieces that have actually been to space, but also feasting your eyes on the rest of the joint's displays. You'll be knocking back beverages; examining rocket engines, space food, space suits, lunar cameras and moon boots; and pondering life beyond our pale blue dot — and the fun coincides with this year's World Science Festival Brisbane, so there'll be plenty of science (yeah!) coming your way. A word of warning: these shindigs often sell out so you'll want to nab a ticket quickly.
Whether you're a pro marathon runner or a casual jogger, running is a lot more fun — and a lot easier — when you're gazing out at beautiful views. To that end, the Great Ocean Road Running Festival takes place along one of Australia's most scenic routes. Happening for the 13th year in a row on Saturday, May 18 and Sunday, May 19, the event offers a race for runners of every kind, as well as a host of other happenings, including live music, film screenings and yoga sessions. At one end, there's the 60-kilometre ultra marathon. At the other, there's the five-kilometre Lorne Hotel run or walk. Whichever race you join, your registration gets you free entry to everything else going on across the weekend. Pop into Lorne Theatre to catch the latest flick, the Lorne Hotel to catch some live music, or Lorne Sea Baths for a post-run dip. Free yoga classes and pre-marathon warm-ups (for runners) will also be happening at festival hubs in both Lorne and Apollo Bay.
Artists and animals are set to collide in the city this autumn. For two glorious weeks, Melbourne Zoo will transform into an extravaganza of lights, projections, installations and interactive performances when the inaugural Neon Playground takes over. Your journey begins at the entrance, where multidisciplinary artist Kit Webster will take inspiration from the Art Deco features of the Zoo's magnificent gates with a towering light installation. From there, step into Awareness Alley, to immerse yourself in a blaze of lasers created by Robin Fox, and then learn about the Zoo's battle against extinction, thanks to the colourful artworks of Carla O'Brien. These are just the tip of the iceberg. Among Neon Playground's many other adventures are a giant maze — made from 600 metres of neon — that takes its cue from the Southern Corroboree frog and a 3D interpretation of of Graeme Base's picture book Waterhole, filled with illuminated puppets. When you're feeling peckish, head into Carousel Park, to discover Relaxoland — a myriad of pop-up bars and food trucks. Neon Playground runs nightly from 5.30–9.30pm.
When 2020 rolls around, the Melbourne Queer Film Festival will hit its 30th year. That's a huge milestone, but everyone knows that turning 29 is just as important — it's the huge hurrah before the other huge hurrah, and it's what MQFF will be celebrating for 12 busy, cinema-filled days between Thursday, March 12 and Monday, March 25. Highlighting 141 features, documentaries and shorts over 106 sessions — and yes, it's counting — this year's fest is going big in a variety of ways. The numbers tell part of the story. The big titles tell another part, including opening night's Papi Chulo, with Matt Bomer as an LA weather man. On closing night, attendees will be greeted with the Australian premiere of the Kristen Stewart and Laura Dern-starring Jeremiah Terminator LeRoy night, relaying a wild literary true tale that has to be seen to be believed. There's also Wild Nights With Emily, which boasts Molly Shannon as acclaimed poet Emily Dickinson; and Mapplethorpe, about the acclaimed and controversial photographer, and with Matt Smith worlds away from his Doctor Who days. When the festival hits up Village Cinemas Jam Factory, ACMI and Cinema Nova, other highlights include Kenyan romance Rafiki, which was initially banned on home turf; tender French drama Sorry, Angel, one of the standouts of last year's Melbourne International Film Festival; and 2018 Sydney Film Festival prize winner The Heiresses, from Paraguay. And on the doco front, Life in the Doghouse explores the tale of two men who turned their home into a dog sanctuary post-Hurricane Katrina, Scotty and the Secret History of Hollywood is a Golden Age tell-all focusing on Scotty Bowers, and Making Montgomery Clift focuses on the titular cinema idol.
Let's see what's behind door number one. Or how about door number 1000? After blowing our minds in 2017 with the incredible House of Mirrors, Australian installation artists Christian Wagstaff and Keith Courtney unveiled their follow-up at Melbourne Festival with the fittingly named 1000 Doors. And in April, it's popping up in Bendigo's town centre, thanks to Bendigo Art Gallery. Visitors will choose their own adventure, cutting a path through an endless labyrinth of doors, screens, portals and gateways in Rosalind Park. No two people will experience the work in quite the same way once they step across the threshold. While there's no word yet on what you'll encounter on the way — hopefully no deathly four-guard, two-door riddle à la Labyrinth — the artists have hinted to ghosts, time-travelling and 'inhabitants past'. We suggest you have your wits about you. 1000 Doors will be open daily from 2–9pm (last entry 8.30pm). You can purchase tickets at the on-site box office. Images: James Morgan
UPDATE, September 24, 2020: On the Basis of Sex is available to stream via Binge, Foxtel Now, Google Play and YouTube Movies. For the second time in the past year, Ruth Bader Ginsburg graces the silver screen. On the Basis of Sex might come hot on the heels of 2018's Oscar-nominated documentary RBG, but this won't be the last time its subject gets the cinema treatment. The celebrated US Supreme Court Justice also pops up as a mini-figure in The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part, which sums up her current status — Ginsburg isn't just one of America's current top judges, or a pioneering legal champion, but a pop culture icon as well. As the years keep passing, filmmakers will keep telling her tale, simply because there's just that much to tell. The first dramatised version of Ginsburg's life, On the Basis of Sex focuses on her early career, but consider it merely the beginning in several senses of the word. Before achieving her current professional and popular standing, as well as her 'Notorious RBG' nickname, Ginsburg (Felicity Jones) was one of the first women accepted into Harvard Law School. But while she shared the top spot in her graduating class — a feat she managed while helping her unwell husband Martin (Armie Hammer) through his legal studies and raising the couple's children — job offers didn't follow. In 50s and 60s America, firms were openly reluctant to hire a female attorney. It's this type of engrained, everyday sexism that steels Ginsburg for the battle that she's now synonymous with. Rallying against legislation that discriminates on the basis of sex, Ginsburg made her name crusading for gender equality, as director Mimi Leder (Pay It Forward) and screenwriter Daniel Stiepleman (the Justice's nephew) chronicle. On the Basis of Sex could've drawn from decades of material, however narrowing the film's focus is a savvy choice. So is highlighting one particular 1972 case, where Charles Moritz (Chris Mulkey) was denied a tax refund for costs related to caring for his ailing mother. With Ruth largely ignored in her quest to expose the inequitable standing of women, both Ginsburgs knew they had something special when they discovered a man being overlooked and discriminated against in the same way. It was her first case of its kind, but the fact that the future judge made a splash with this matter — fighting for a man taking on a traditionally female task — makes an enormous, damning statement about US society at the time. There's much that incites anger in On the Basis of Sex, from the dismissive treatment meted out to Ginsburg time and time again, to the male-dominated domain that she's forced to navigate — an attitude that wasn't just widely accepted, but was solidified in law. There's much in the movie that inspires, too, not only including Ginsburg herself, but her marriage with Martin. Leder proves patient and poignant with her direction, displaying immense reverence for Ginsburg, all that she's faced and everything that she represents, yet never feeling the need to over-stress the importance of the future judge's achievements. The narrative's details do the talking, while the craft of the film remains restrained and respectful. It's the standard broad, celebratory biopic framework, complete with gentle pacing, warm hues and handsome imagery, but in recreating the life of someone with such quiet, commanding power, it works. This may be a prestige portrait through and through, but it's effective. The fact that the movie's central double-act thoroughly hit their marks also assists. Jones brings determination and assurance to her starring part, Hammer plays Martin as thoughtfully aware of the challenges blighting his wife's career, and together they make a winning team through the story's ups and downs. While it's infuriating that it took a man's case to spark Ginsburg's rise to prominence, the support that she receives from Martin doesn't evoke the same response. Crucially, however, this isn't a tale about a noble man standing behind a great woman, but of a partnership that helped Ruth overcome obstacles that were never even an issue for her husband. Of course, On the Basis of Sex never forgets who its paying tribute to, not even for a moment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtzesNEmVhs
Bourke Street's unconventional dumpling diner Drumplings is regularly turning out eats that stray from the norm — like its mac and cheese, cheeseburger and meat pie dumpling varieties. Now, the neon-lit joint is taking on yum cha and bottomless brunch, but with its typical left-of-centre approach. Stop in any morning of the week and tuck into bacon and egg dumplings with salted jamón crumb. Or try the shakshouka variety, stuffed with spicy baked eggs and a rich tomato ragout. Also on the menu is the french toast bao — served with chilli and chocolate ice cream and poached pear and ginger syrup — and peppered pork belly sliders, topped with a fried egg and chipotle mayo. If you're keen to try the lot, head in on weekends when bottomless brunch is on offer. For $59 per person, you'll get sliders, bao and bacon and egg dumplings, along with sichuan fried calamari and all-you-can-drink bloody marys, mimosas, cider or house draught. Drumplings' new breakfast menu is available Monday–Friday, 7.30am–noon and Saturday–Sunday, 8am–3pm. The bottomless brunch package is available Saturday and Sunday from 11–2pm.
Australia will receive a healthy dose of 1920s razzle-dazzle, as record-breaking Broadway favourite Chicago shimmies onto stages across the country this year. An Aussie production of the smash-hit musical will debut at Sydney's Capitol Theatre in August, before heading to Brisbane's QPAC Lyric Theatre in November and wrapping up at Arts Centre Melbourne from December. The longest-running American musical in Broadway and West End history, the original Kander & Ebb musical has reached the eyeballs of over 31 million people worldwide. Inspiring 2002's Academy Award-winning film of the same name, it tells the tale of a Chicago housewife and nightclub dancer who twirls through a whirlwind of murdered lovers, jail-time, fierce rivalries and tabloid sensationalism set in the decadent 1920s. Taking the stage for Chicago's local run is a cast of well-known Aussie names — catch acclaimed all-rounder Natalie Bassingthwaighte in the lead role of Roxie Hart, musical theatre veteran Alinta Chidzey as her rival Velma Kelly, and ARIA-winning superstar Casey Donovan playing Matron 'Mama' Morton. Based on a 1926 play by Maurine Dallas Watkins, the production showcases music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb and choreography by Tony Award winner Ann Reinking. Hot on its black patent heels are two more award-winning musicals heading Down Under. Saturday Night Fever will head to Capital Theatre in Sydney this August, before Waitress hits Aussie shores in 2020. Images: Peter Brew Bevan, Jeremy Daniel.
If a fresh bread roll, an expertly grilled patty and a slice of melted cheese is your idea of a perfect meal, then you probably have May 28 permanently marked in your diary. Each and every year, that's when the world's most dedicated burger lovers celebrate their favourite food. We're not saying that burgs will taste better on that date — or that it's really a legitimate day of celebration — but if you just can't get enough of the them, it's definitely worth your attention. Especially if there are free burgers involved. Which, this year, there are. Burger Project will be slinging free cheeseburgers at all three of its Melbourne stores from 11am–12pm on Tuesday, May 28. There will only be 50 up for grabs at each joint, so you'll have to make sure you're one of the first through the doors at 555 Bourke Street, St Collins Lane or Chadstone. For those new to Burger Project's take on an old fave, Neil Perry's eatery whips up a hand-pressed slab of Cape Grim beef, layers it with pickles, onion, mustard and cheese, then squirts on some secret sauce. Next, it's all placed between a soft milk bun. And it tastes even better when it's free. Given that this free-for-all is a first in, best dressed affair, we recommend scheduling an early lunch break that day.
If you've ever been (or tried to be) vegan, you'll know there's a certain bliss that comes with having a whole smorgasbord of plant-based products at your disposal. So we expect squeals aplenty at the news that the Big Vegan Market is back, and will once again grace the sprawling interior of Carlton's Royal Exhibition Building on May 11 and 12. Kicking off at 10am on both days, the event pulls together a dizzying, all-vegan array of food, drinks, craft, beauty and fashion, with more than 200 vendors signing up to showcase their cruelty-free wares. Head in to snack on treats from the likes of gelato truck Billy van Creamy, Collingwood pizzeria Red Sparrow and all-vegan CBD pastry shop Weirdoughs, while indulging in some guilt-free retail therapy, spying sustainably crafted threads from Velvety and animal-free wares from The Karma Collective. Given the stacks of businesses involved, they're really just a few of the goodies on offer. Jump on the Facebook page for the day's full lineup of vegan vendors. The Big Vegan Market runs from 10am–6pm.
On the lookout for a dope new denim jacket? Or do you want to be rid of that weird-looking lamp taking up space in the living room? Then, by golly, you're in luck. The Garage Sale Trail works with local council partners Australia-wide to get as many trash-and-treasure troves happening on the same day as possible. More than 18,000 garages are expected to open their doors to bargain hunters, selling two million items, when the event returns for its tenth time across the weekend of Saturday, October 19 and Sunday, October 20. Aside from the retro goodies up for grabs, the Trail is all about sustainability. Instead of ending up in landfill, unwanted clutter becomes a fantastic find. So get that tight pair of sunnies for peanuts and help the environment at the same time. The Garage Sale Trail began humbly in Bondi in 2010 and is growing bigger every year. There'll be a right slew of sales happening all around Melbourne, so keep your eyes on the event website — or register online from Saturday, August 10 to make a quick buck from your old junk and hang out with the friendly folks in your hood.
The Makers and Shakers Market will visit Melbourne again on Sunday, November 10, bringing with it the whole kit and caboodle of bespoke ceramics, homewares and jewellery (as well as tasty food to rejuvenate you when you get the oh-no-I-just-spent-all-my-money sweats). Kick things off at 10am with a coffee, spend a few hours browsing, and then chow down on a toastie or perhaps a gluten-free vegan doughnut. The market gives space to local makers to sell their handmade wares, with everything from ceramic keep cups to floral tote bags to be found. Stallholders change with each market, but you can expect everything from bright art, flowers and designer soaps to whimsical lamps and jars of sticky caramel based on previous lineups. And that's just the crust of the pie — there are many more to choose from when you take a full bite. Images: Alana Dimou.
Historic Melbourne cinema The Astor is hosting its Great Astor Spooktacular again for 2019, and it's going big. This year, more than nine movies will be be shown in an all-night horror marathon — right in time for Halloween. Directed by "Lucifer himself" and featuring a cast of "the hounds of hell", some of the films include the retro fun of Dawn of the Dead, The Slumber Party Massacre, A Nightmare on Elm Street and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre — plus 90s classic Scream, 2009 standout Drag Me to Hell and the suitably unnerving The House of the Devil. The historic cinema, known for its presentation of classics and cult films, is the perfect venue to settle in for the evening, clutch a big bucket of popcorn, and get spooked over and over and over again. It all kicks off at 7pm on Saturday, October 26 and runs overnight. With a few dark and twisted flicks on the bill — and a few surprises — needless to say, this one isn't for the faint of heart.
Downton Abbey has always been the TV equivalent of a cup of tea: warm, soothing, a tad sugary, but reliably serving up an escape from everyday woes. Airing for six seasons from 2010–15, the 1920s-set British TV series was a hit for many reasons, letting audiences get lost in the soapy intrigue of a lavish Yorkshire mansion chief among them. That, and watching Maggie Smith sling barbs, make quips, and put anyone in their place, a skill that the veteran actor wields oh-so-well. It's been nearly four years between sips, but both the show and its beloved octogenarian are back. They're on the big screen this time around, however this is the epitome of a television movie. It's filled with everyone's favourite characters, hits all of the familiar marks, overflows with slim subplots that get wrapped up before the end credits, and leaves viewers feeling happy and cosy. With the film taking place in 1927, more than a year has passed for Downton Abbey's inhabitants, but it's business as usual at the titular manor. That's until royal news arrives, with King George V (Simon Jones) and Queen Mary (Geraldine James) planning to stop by for a visit. Naturally, excitement abounds among the aristocratic Crawley family and their loyal staff. It's the latter that have to weather the most obstacles, though. Dreaming of attending to Their Majesties, they soon discover that the Crown will be bringing their own servants with them. That's not the Downton Abbey way, of course, and the house's maids, butlers, cooks, footmen and the like won't give up their chance to shine for the kingdom without a fight. There's plenty of story to go around, and plenty of people to navigate the regal antics. Patriarch Robert Crawley (Hugh Bonneville) isn't too fussed, and nor is his wife Cora (Elizabeth McGovern), although that's largely because their daughter, Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery), takes charge. His mother Violet (Smith) is spoiling to confront her cousin Maud (Imelda Staunton), who's also the Queen's lady-in-waiting, about an inheritance. Among the upstairs residents, Tom Branson (Allen Leech) gets the most interesting narrative arc — an ex-chauffeur who married into the family, and an Irish Republican, it's suspected that he may cause trouble during the royal stay. Downstairs, retired butler Carson (Jim Carter) has been asked back for the occasion, much to his replacement Barrow's (Rob James-Collier) dismay. Kitchen maid Daisy (Sophie McShera) isn't quite ready to plan her wedding to footman Andy (Michael C. Fox), and Mary's maid Anna Bates (Joanne Froggatt) is on the trail of a thief. The list goes on, with more than 25 characters receiving substantial screen-time. Penned by Julian Fellowes, like all 52 episodes of the TV show, Downton Abbey takes the more-is-more approach. This cinematic last hurrah is packed with as much as it possibly can manage, which is great news for existing fans, but comes across as rushed for newcomers. No one gets too much attention, no storyline feels particularly important and there's little in the way of tension. The blueprint of each subplot gleams as obviously as the mansion's lavish surfaces, too, even when the movie keeps jumping from one minor drama to the next. Rather than telling a rousing new tale in a fleshed-out fashion, Fellowes and director Michael Engler are more concerned with letting Downton diehards spend a bit of extra time with the well-to-do crew and their kindly subordinates. The pair do just that, however that doesn't mean uninitiated viewers aren't catered for. Nearly two decades after winning a screenwriting Oscar for Gosford Park, actor-turned-writer Fellowes has become the fount of all knowledge regarding English upstairs-downstairs shenanigans — and even when he's keeping things light and slight, the results are enjoyable to watch. As well as possessing an ear for the rhythm of everyday banter among posh and ordinary folks alike, he understands the class clashes between them, plus the similarities that draw them together. He also knows and conveys a crucial fact: that the dynamic between the upper echelons and the help isn't as consigned to the past as it may seem. Downton Abbey is a historical fantasy where scant little changes, but there's a reason that the period program struck such a chord over the last decade. As the political landscape becomes more and more fractured around the globe, the series recognises society's divisions while leaning into comfort, safety and stability in a gentle and unchallenging manner. Comfort, at least visually, might just be an understatement. There isn't much to rationalise Downton Abbey's release in theatres instead of on TV (other than the likely box office windfall, that is), but the lavish costuming and grand set design look a treat on the silver screen. Indeed, other than Smith doing what the program has always tasked her with doing best, the film's imagery is the star of the show. While the rest of the cast perform exactly as they're asked — as is to be expected nine years after the series first premiered — this isn't an actor-driven affair. Really, it's a big hug goodbye in movie form, offering up a huge embrace to eager aficionados and giving a pleasant-enough squeeze to everyone else. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GbV8LpEzYgQ
This year marks a massive milestone for Australia's Lavazza Italian Film Festival: 20 years. So, cinephiles can expect a whole lot more of the fest's beloved highlights when it takes over Melbourne's Palace Cinema Como, Kino Cinema, Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Westgarth and The Astor Theatre from September 19 to October 16. There'll be plenty of parties — both on- and off-screen — as well. When you're not stepping into the glossy but murky world of professional footballers with opening night's The Champion, you'll be watching the world premiere of romantic drama Promised, which features a stacked Italian Australian cast. Or, come closing night, you'll be enjoying the sights and sounds of Ron Howard's Pavarotti, an intimate documentary about one of the country's biggest stars. Loved Paolo Sorrentino's acclaimed Silvio Berlusconi biopic Loro last year? This year, the new director's cut is on the bill. The festival also pays particular attention to new Italian cinema, specifically new Italian comedies, so viewers can immerse themselves in poignant tales of tragedy, slick courtroom dramas and cross-cultural rom-coms. Keep an eye out for ensemble piece If Only, which stars Alba Rohrwacher and Riccardo Scamarcio, and arrives in Australia fresh from premiering at the Locarno Film Festival; The Armadillo's Prophecy, based on a best-selling graphic novel, and exploring a young man's friendship with an imaginary armadillo; and the equally humorous and thoughtful Ordinary Happiness, which finds inspiration in the short stories of Francesco Piccolo. With 32 movies screening over the festival's month-long run, audiences can also dive into Italian art history courtesy of a couple of movies about Michelangelo Buonarroti and Leonardo da Vinci. The blasts from the past keep coming, thanks to a two-film Bernardo Bertolucci retrospective — including a restored version of his political thriller The Conformist, and the five-hour, Robert De Niro-starring drama 1900. The Lavazza Italian Film Festival 2019 will screen at Melbourne's Palace Cinemas from September 19–October 16. For more information and to book tickets, visit the website.
As far as beer festivals go, this newcomer sure has the strangest name. The inaugural Blobfish Beer Festival debuts at North Melbourne's Meat Market next month, pulling together a lineup that celebrates the sour, the funky and the delightfully different. Headed up by the team at Footscray's own Hop Nation Brewing, the tasting party will run across two sessions on Saturday, August 24, offering punters the chance to sample a whole swag of rare and unusual beers from 16 top Aussie and New Zealand labels. Get set to sip a diverse range of sours, saisons, barrel-aged brews, fruity concoctions and rare small-batch runs, from the likes of NZ's Garage Project, Sydney's Wildflower, Van Dieman in Tas, Queensland's Fathom by Green Beacon and locals Future Mountain and La Sirène. And the options don't end there, either, with a lager-focused tinnie bar to 'cleanse the palate' between tastings, wine from Red Hill's Kerri Greens and an oyster bar shucking all through the day. You can even polish up your cheese and beer matching skills, under the expert guidance of The Beer and Cheese Theory. A ticket will cost you $70, which includes entry, a keepsake Blobfish beer glass and $20 worth of tasting tokens. You'll also score a food voucher to spend on snacks from the Blobfish Kitchen pop-up restaurant. Blobfish sessions run from 11.30m–3pm and 4.30–8pm.
Sent to gay conversion camp after being caught with another girl on prom night, Cameron Post (Chloë Grace Moretz) lies on the ground with one of her fellow campers. They're taking part in a class exercise, but when Cameron doesn't express herself in the way that's expected, she's accused of being hostile. More than that, she's told that by remaining more reserved than her classmates — by simply being who she is — that she's attacking everyone around her. While hardly one of The Miseducation of Cameron Post's most dramatic moments, the scene perfectly encapsulates the antagonism that is often directed towards the queer community just for existing. Adapting the applauded novel of the same name and earning the Grand Jury Prize at this year's Sundance Film Festival for its efforts, The Miseducation of Cameron Post deploys the tactics mentioned above on several occasions. The film includes scenes that appear ordinary within the narrative, and don't always stand out when the end credits roll, yet still speak to something broader. In another example, Cameron peels potatoes in the camp kitchen. The 4 Non Blondes hit 'What's Up?' starts playing on the radio, and Cameron begins to sing along. She's timid at first, but as the song continues — complete with a chorus that screams "what's going on?", as well as lines about praying for a revolution — her enthusiasm grows. In specific scenes and in its overall mood, The Miseducation of Cameron Post is compassionate and sensitive — not to the concept of gay conversion therapy, but to teens who are chastised for deviating from society's narrow idea of normality. Focusing on 16-year-old Cameron, the film explores the struggles faced by those packed off to the strict God's Promise facility as they're lectured about gender confusion and instructed to bury their urges. Under the watchful eyes of Dr. Lydia Marsh (Jennifer Ehle) and her supposedly saved brother (John Gallagher Jr.), attendees are taught how to be more stereotypically feminine or masculine. Girls are pushed away from sports, and guys with long locks are given haircuts. Unsurprisingly, Cameron is far from happy to be there, although she has like-minded company in the world-weary Jane (Sasha Lane) and the thoughtful Adam (Forrest Goodluck). While her film is set in the 90s, writer-director Desiree Akhavan wades into topical territory with her follow-up to 2014 comedy Appropriate Behaviour. It's timely, too, with The Miseducation of Cameron Post the first of two high-profile titles about gay conversion heading to screens before the year is out. (The second, Boy Erased, stars Lady Bird's Lucas Hedges, with Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe as his parents.) That said, it's not the movie's subject matter that makes it revolutionary, but its approach. Although it details a horrendous practice, this is a quiet film. It's not sharply subversive like the similarly themed But I'm a Cheerleader from 1999, and it doesn't need to be. Rather, with a big heart and some well-deployed low-key humour, The Miseducation of Cameron Post demonstrates unshakeable strength and defiance — just as its eponymous figure does when she's torn in multiple directions by her feelings, yet refuses to submit to anyone else's ideas about her sexuality or identity. It's little wonder, then, that Akhavan rarely takes the camera away from Moretz's face. When you're making a movie that's so steeped in the emotions of its protagonist, that's an understandable choice. Given that Moretz turns in a performance that's more nuanced and textured than anything else across her career, it's doubly so. The Miseducation of Cameron Post also finds ample time for the excellent Lane and Goodluck, who ensure that their supporting players feel exceptionally well-rounded. It gives other figures their small but important moments too, fleshing out the myriad of ways that places such as God's Promise can do damage. But whether Akhavan is rendering the picture's frames in muted tones that match Cameron's reserved personality, or simply capturing the pain flickering across Moretz's brow, she always adopts her lead character's perspective. This is a movie that gazes with the young woman at its centre, and strives to convey her experience in difficult circumstances, instead of merely looking at her. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6yPs5Nayog
This is not a single event, but rather a collection. The Regional Centre for Culture is an initiative from Creative Victoria aiming to celebrate the land and culture of which the Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung peoples are traditional custodians. Across an entire year, it's highlighting local events and experiences throughout the region so you can fill almost every day with a cultural adventure. Among the plethora of offerings are special events, such as a day dedicated to sustainable housing; exhibitions, including the Paul Guest Prize for contemporary drawing at Bendigo Art Gallery; and the magnificent BendArts Festival, a week-long affair of shows, workshops and performances. There's also Demolish, a theatrical performance exploring the intangible connection between landscape, life and the future. The show will take place at Bendigo Showgrounds from December 11–15. Rosalind Park is the hub for many of Bendigo's program highlights including Yapenya, a free ceremonial song and dance event on Saturday, November 17; and Poppet, an interactive performance on Rosalind Park's poppet head, using light projection, shadow puppetry and aerial dancing on Saturday, October 20. But these are very much the tip of the iceberg. The Regional Centre of Culture invites you to meander through its many, many happenings. You can plan ahead using one of the pre-designed itineraries.
Punch out of your full-time job for the day and cast your ballot in this cheeky public poll installation from American artist Steve Lambert. Having previously taken over public spaces across the United States and Europe — including a stint in New York City's Times Square — Capitalism Works for Me! True/False asks visitors to mull the pros and cons of capitalism and then answer a simple question. The installation will be set up at four public places over the duration of Melbourne Fringe. A live running tally will be displayed on Lambert's large LED scoreboard, tracking how we all feel about the system that runs...well, pretty much every aspect of our lives. CAPITALISM WORKS FOR ME! TRUE/FALSE LOCATIONS State Library of Victoria Forecourt — 1–5pm, September 13–15 Queen Victoria Market — 5–9pm, September 19 (at the Hawker 88 Night Market) Bourke Street Mall — 11am–3pm, September 20–22 Fringe Hub at Arts House — 4–8pm, September 27–29 Image: Bryony Jackson.
On the lookout for a dope new denim jacket? Or do you want to be rid of that weird-looking lamp taking up space in the living room? Then, by golly, you're in luck. The Garage Sale Trail works with local council partners Australia-wide to get as many trash-and-treasure troves happening on the same day as possible. More than 15,000 garages are expected to open their doors to bargain hunters, selling two million items, when the event returns for its ninth time across the weekend of October 20 and 21. Aside from the retro goodies up for grabs, the Trail is all about sustainability. Instead of ending up in landfill, unwanted clutter becomes a fantastic find. So get that tight pair of sunnies for peanuts and help the environment at the same time. The Garage Sale Trail began humbly in Bondi in 2010 and is growing bigger every year. There'll be a right slew of sales happening all around Melbourne, so keep your eyes on the event website — or register online to make a quick buck from your old junk and hang out with the friendly folks in your hood.
Tucked into a small, unassuming storefront on the busy Hopkins Street, this buzzing little sandwich shop pumps out authentic Vietnamese banh mi at under $6 a pop. That said, you can double up on fillings and still not break the bank — it's rare that you'll be dropping more than $6.50. There are eight sandwiches on offer, which can be filled with all the traditional trimmings like pâté, pickled carrot, coriander, daikon and, of course, chilli. The no-nonsense shop embraces everything that an authentic (albeit Australianised) version of a banh mi should; from the bright, laminated menu on the back wall, to the clear counter of fresh ingredients between you and the cheery, efficient staff. It's a no-brainer if you need a quick, fresh and satisfying feed on your lunch break, or as you're strolling the streets of Footscray taking in all that this richly diverse suburb has to offer. Images: Julia Sansone
After almost a decade at the helm, the sun has set on Daniel Andrews' time as Premier of Victoria. During the pandemic, Andrews became a household name across the state, as well as the country. He also became the unofficial North Face ambassador, inspired countless memes and even starred in Mashd N Kutcher's hit track 'Get on the Beers'. It's a banger. To celebrate the end of an era, Fitzroy's Perseverance is hosting a "get on the beers" party on Friday, September 29 — and you're invited. If your name is Dan, well, you're the guest of honour, as there'll be free beer with your name on it — if you can provide ID to prove it. Dani will also be accepted. Godspeed ye chosen ones. The party is free to enter, with $6 beers flowing all evening. DJs will be on from 8pm and, of course, you can expect Mashd N Kutcher's tune to be played ad nauseam. We wouldn't have it any other way. So grab your North Face puffer and pour one out for the big dog. It was a solid innings. Now, let's get on the beers. Perseverance images: Giulia Morlando.
As well as giving popular culture some of its most beloved characters of the past few decades, the Harry Potter franchise has also conjured up a whole heap of astonishing critters. The Boy Who Lived himself studied them at Hogwarts, all thanks to textbook Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Then, to the joy of Potter-loving muggles everywhere, that tome became an actual IRL text in 2001. Every Wizarding World fan knows that that book followed the original Harry Potter novels in making the leap from the page to the screen, resulting in a first film in 2016, then 2018 sequel Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald and also 2022's Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore. But if you're more interested in the actual fantastic beasts than a movie plot spun around them — and in natural history in general — exhibition Fantastic Beasts: The Wonder of Nature has you covered. First announced in 2020, then premiering at London's Natural History Museum, this is all about critters that fly, scamper and scurry through the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts realm on the page and screen; however, it's also about real-life creatures, specimens and artefacts, too. The exhibition combines beasts from the natural world, the mythical world and the Wizarding World, and was always slated for an international tour. Now, it's Australia's turn to see it, with the showcase displaying at Melbourne Museum from Friday, May 19–Sunday, October 8. Visitors to Fantastic Beasts: The Wonder of Nature will see legendary beasts placed alongside specimens and historic objects, while also venturing through elements from cinema's last two decades. Unsurprisingly, there'll also be a hefty focus on Newt Scamander, the Wizarding World's famed magizoologist as played Eddie Redmayne (The Good Nurse). You'll see items from the Natural History Museum's scientific collections, custom-made Wizarding World models, props from the flicks and original artworks from Bloomsbury Publishing. And, you'll also also wander through a celebration of real-life scientists trying to understand the planet's animal inhabitants. In London, the exhibits included a tiger, a Galápagos marine iguana and a giant oarfish (the planet's longest bony fish) alongside an Erumpent horn and the dragon skull from Professor Lupin's classroom. Patrons were also able to compare the camouflage tactics of a jaguar to those of the Demiguise. Images: Trustees of the Natural History Museum London.
If you don't believe that Fast X will be one of the Fast and Furious franchise's last films, which you shouldn't, then it's time to face a different realisation. Now 22 years old, this family-, street racing- and Corona-loving "cult with cars" saga — its own words in this latest instalment — might one day feature every actor ever in its always-expanding cast. Dying back in 2013 hasn't stopped Paul Walker from regularly appearing a decade on. He's the first of the core F&F crew to be seen in Fast X, in fact, thanks to a flashback to 2011's Fast Five that explains why the series' flamboyant new villain has beef with the usual Vin Diesel (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3)-led faces. Playing said antagonist is Jason Momoa (Dune), who adds another high-profile name to a roster that also gains Brie Larson (Ms Marvel), Rita Moreno (West Side Story), Daniela Melchior (The Suicide Squad), Alan Ritchson (Reacher) and Walker's daughter Meadow this time around. It's no wonder that this 11th flick in the franchise (yes spinoff Hobbs & Shaw counts) clocks in at an anything-but-swift 141 minutes. It's also hardly surprising that living on-screen life a quarter mile at a time now seems more like a variety show than a movie, at least where all that recognisable talent is involved. There are so many people to stuff into Fast X that most merely get wheeled out for their big moment or, if they're lucky, a couple. Some bring comedy (the long-running double act that is End of the Road's Ludacris and Morbius' Tyrese Gibson), others steely glares and frenetic fight scenes (The School for Good and Evil and Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves' always-welcome Charlize Theron and Michelle Rodriguez, respectively), or just reasons to keep bringing up Walker's retired Brian O'Conner (which is where Who Invited Charlie?'s Jordana Brewster still fits in). When more than a few actors pop up, it feels purely obligatory, like the F&F realm just can't exist now without a glimpse of Jason Statham's (Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre) scowl or getting Helen Mirren (Shazam! Fury of the Gods) going cockney. Do too many drivers and offsiders spoil the Point Break-but-cars hijinks? Not completely, but the high-octane saga's jam-packed cast is now a roadblock. It certainly can't have helped screenwriter Justin Lin, the director of The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, Fast & Furious, Fast Five, Fast & Furious 6, F9 and initially Fast X until leaving a week into production, and his co-scribe Dan Mazeau (Wrath of the Titans). Their script sports an overarching plot, with Momoa's Dante Reyes avenging the death of his drug-lord father five films back, but it's really about servicing the required parts. Oh-so-many folks require some screentime; all the usual heist, chase and race antics have to drop in; everyone needs to jet between the US, Italy, Brazil, the UK, Antarctica and Portugal; family must be mentioned approximately 423,000 times; and Diesel's Dominic Toretto demands a few of beats to act as if Brian is dead even though he remains alive in the series' storyline. That's the to-do list that Lin, Mazeau, and Statham's The Transporter and The Transporter 2 filmmaker-turned-Fast X helmer Louis Leterrier tick through — and tick they do. Dom and the fam, including his abuelita (Moreno) and son Little Brian (Leo Abelo Perry, Cheaper by the Dozen), get an early backyard barbecue, waxing lyrical under the Los Angeles sun about the ties that bind. Then Roman (Gibson), Tej (Ludacris), Han (Sung Kang, Obi-Wan Kenobi) and Ramsey (Nathalie Emmanuel, The Invitation) go to Rome for a job that goes wrong, and ex-adversary Cipher (Theron) shows up bruised and bloody on Dom and Letty's (Rodriguez) doorstep talking about the devil. The common factor: Reyes, who has declared war on the extended Toretto brood without them knowing he exists. They should've expected him, though, given that battling family members — of past enemies and, when John Cena (Peacemaker) joined in F9 as Dom's brother Jakob, their own — is another box-checking saga staple. Almost every newcomer to the franchise, both here and in general, is related to someone else. That's how deep the series' family values go. And yet, for a saga that started embracing its ridiculousness when Dwayne Johnson (Black Adam) jumped aboard — also in Fast Five; you can't have Diesel, Johnson and later Statham bashing their sweaty heads together without having a sense of humour about it — it plays the soap opera-esque parade of kin (and the well-known actors being them) too straight. Fast X knows how outlandish it and its predecessors are with stunts, even if no one rockets to space this time. It says cheers over Mexican beers to its established cliches as well. And it joyfully has Momoa get giddily OTT as the scrunchie-wearing, "awesome!"-spouting, Joker-esque Dante, visibly having a ball doing so. But the so-earnest-it's-playful deliriousness that should always hum through these tales of petty thieves-turned-international spies is often revved over by needing to shoehorn in another character, then another, then more, whether they've been fam since day one or they're making their debut. It's doubtful that it's on purpose, but Fast X practises what Dom preaches, making its audience appreciate the simple things. There's nothing uncomplicated about the movie's hyper-stylised stunt choreography, with its giant pinballing bombs and reggaeton drag racing — the latter soundtracked by Daddy Yankee's 'Gasolina', of course — but the film is lighter and livelier when it strips itself down to its pedal-to-the-metal and fist-throwing basics. That's when there's an energy to now seven-time F&F cinematographer Stephen F Windon's whooshing and whirling lensing, too, especially when he's gliding through windshields while engines are purring in a Rio-set moment. Smartly, Theron and Rodriguez are gifted an impressively staged fray that screams for them to have their own spinoff. And when helicopters are being flung at each other by a Dodge Charger, it's pure dumb action-flick fun. While those choppers are swooping and crashing, revhead-in-training Little Brian can't help exclaiming with excitement. Fast X isn't ready to usher the saga's big-screen entries into Fast and Furious: The Next Generation just yet — it will eventually, sometime after this chapter's one confirmed sequel and likely second follow-up get motoring, although animated Netflix series Fast & Furious Spy Racers got there first — but that glee is exactly what Diesel and company want their audience to share. This is a thrill ride in fits and starts, however. At its worst, including with its stop-mid-scene cliffhanger, it's franchise-extending filler that never-ending sagas like the Marvel Cinematic Universe have made the gear-grinding norm. But when Fast X pumps the gas on turbocharged vehicular lunacy rather than playing connect-the-dots and spot-the-famous-face, giving four Oscar-winning actresses too little to do and dropping in hardly surprising guest appearances, it's an entertaining-enough spin down a well-driven road.
Marco Pierre White is a star of kitchens and screens alike. He was the first British chef — and the youngest chef at the time — to be awarded three Michelin stars. He's popped up on everything from Hell's Kitchen to MasterChef, including in Australia. Back in 2019, he was one of Melbourne Good Food Month's huge headliners. He's also the culinary force behind cookbook White Heat, the 1990 tome that played up his "bad boy" image. He's been dubbed "the first celebrity chef" as well. And, he's trained fellow famed food figures such as Mario Batali, Heston Blumenthal, Gordon Ramsay and Curtis Stone. That's a brief run through White's resume, but you're best to hear the full details — and the ups and downs that've come with being White — from the chef himself. So, in May, the culinary whiz is touring Australia's east coast capitals with his first-ever live theatre show. Heading to Melbourne's Hamer Hall on Tuesday, May 30, White's Out of the Kitchen gigs will chat through his beginnings, his training and his stardom, plus the kind of success that led to his "enfant terrible" label. That means hearing about his arrival in London with just "£7.36, a box of books and a bag of clothes", and his tutelage under Albert and Michael Roux at renowned French fine-diner Le Gavroche. And, there's nabbing those three Michelin stars at the age of 33, of course.
