More than eight months since it premiered at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival, winning the Palme d'Or and sparking a wave of acclaim that's still going, Bong Joon-ho's Parasite is still earning plenty of attention. In fact, even though the South Korean masterpiece opened in Australian cinemas at the end of June last year, it's still — yes, still — screening on the big screen. It actually hasn't stopped showing in theatres in all of that time. Whether you've seen the best film of 2019 already, or you've been meaning to catch up, heading along to a session on Sunday, February 9 is highly recommended. Don't just go to any old screening of the twisty flick, though. On this one day — the day before this year's Oscars, where Bong's applauded movie is in the running for six awards — Parasite will be screening in select cinemas in black and white. Bong has always wanted to make a B&W film, inspired by the works of auteurs such as Jean Renoir, Federico Fellini, Akira Kurosawa and John Ford. While Parasite was shot in colour, this new monochrome print lets its director live out his dreams. And, it lets audiences experience the movie's thrills, secrets and feuding families in a brand new way. As Bong himself explains about watching it in black and white, "the film felt more realistic and sharp, as if I was being cut by a blade." Sydneysiders can check out the B&W version at the Chauvel, Palace Sydney and Palace Norton Street, Dendy Newtown and Dendy Opera Quays, and the Ritz in Randwick. In the interim, watch the trailer below — in colour, though, not black and white: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SEUXfv87Wpk
Cowboys, bucking bulls, flying mud: think of a rodeo, and all three come to mind. Setting Neon Bull in the thick of the Brazilian circuit, writer-director Gabriel Mascaro knows this. In fact, he invites it. With audiences' heads initially filled with the stereotypical sights and sounds that many an American movie has reinforced, he revels in revealing something different. Scene by scene, he immerses viewers in a version of the sport known as vaquejada, as well as the world that exists beyond the usual hats, boots, and attempts at grabbing cattle. In the process, he introduces us to the often overlooked people lurking behind the scenes. For Iremar (Juliano Cazarré), it's a modest existence as well as a tough one, with two dreams enlivening his otherwise routine days of transporting animals and chalking the bulls' tails before they enter the ring. Whenever and however he can, he bides his time through fashion — drawing outfits onto the naked women in the magazines his co-worker Zé (Carlos Pessoa) covets, and making costumes for their driver Galega (Maeve Jinkings) to wear when she moonlights as a dancer. With Zé, he also schemes to steal a prized horse's semen. Neon Bull isn't a quirky caper, as much as it might sound like it. Indeed, with scenes of Galega shimmying in the dark while wearing a giant horse mask, a subplot involving another worker's obsession with straightening his long locks, and yet another involving breaking into a textile factory, the film could easily be treated as a comedy. Mascaro doesn't avoid laughs, but rather than emphasise the humor, he lets any chuckles spring naturally and honestly. His characters and their lives are filled with lived-in eccentricity; all he and Cemetery of Splendour cinematographer Diego Garcia need to do is watch. Episodic and observational, it's the kind of approach a documentarian would take, so it shouldn't come as a surprise that most of Mascaro's career has been spent making factual films. As a result, although he's working with actors and there's never any doubt that his movie is fictional, even the most surreal and fanciful of sequences feel real. Galega's young daughter Cacá (lyne Santana) perhaps illustrates this best. Looking on with wide eyes, she's fascinated with Iremar, yet accepts everything ordinary and unusual that she sees. Here, in the heat and the dust, with the people who have become her makeshift family, that's just the way things are. Commentary about the film's country of origin shades Neon Bull's frames. Iremar and his pals show that life is changing in the rodeo realm, just as it is in broader Brazil. The movie also investigates the link between those who walk on two legs and those who walk on four. We care for, corral and try to conquer these animals, yet the film shows that in a lot of ways we're really not all that different. Laced with empathy, insight and more than a few narrative, visual and emotional surprises, Neon Bull proves a winner.
Been spending the first few months of 2021 pondering the future? Given the current state of affairs, that's only natural. From this weekend, however, you might want to look to the skies as well — and feast your eyes on the night sky. From around April 16–25 each year, the Lyrids Meteor Shower sets the sky ablaze. This year, it's doing just that from April 14–30. It might not be as famous as Halley's Comet, but it's still very impressive. Plus, rather than only being visible every 75 years (the next Halley's Comet sighting is in 2061), you can catch the Lyrids annually. In 2021, the Lyrids will be at its most spectacular from April 22–23. For folk located Down Under, early on Friday, April 23 is when you'll be peering upwards. Here's how to catch a glimpse from your backyard. WHAT IS IT The Lyrids Meteor Shower is named after constellation Lyra, which is where the meteor shower appears to come from near star Vega, and is created by debris from comet Thatcher. While the comet, which takes about 415 years to orbit around the sun, won't be visible from Earth again until 2276, the Lyrids can be seen every autumn between around April 16–25. So, you can even pencil it in for next year. It's also the oldest recorded meteor shower, so there's that, too. On average, you can see up to 18 meteors per hour, but the Lyrids are also known to have outbursts of nearly 100 meteors per hour. So, while no outburst is predicted for 2021, you could get lucky. [caption id="attachment_767783" align="alignnone" width="1920"] jpstanley via Flickr.[/caption] WHEN TO SEE IT In Australia, the shower will reach a peak in the early morning of Thursday, April 23 according to Time and Date, but will still able to be seen either side of those dates between April 14–30. The best time to catch an eyeful is just before dawn after the moon has set, so around 4am. At that time, you'll be in the running to see meteors moving at about 177,000 kilometres per hour, shining extraordinarily brightly and leaving a long wake. The shower's cause is, essentially, the Earth getting in the comet's way, causing stardust to fry up in the atmosphere. HOW TO SEE IT When a meteor shower lights up the sky, getting as far away from light pollution as possible is the best way to get a prime view. If you can't do that, you can still take a gander from your backyard or balcony. To help locate the Lyrids, we recommend downloading the Sky Map app — it's the easiest way to navigate the night sky (and is a lot of fun to use even on a non-meteor shower night). If you're more into specifics, Time and Date also have a table that shows the direction and altitude of the Lyrids. The site updates these details daily. Clouds and showers are predicted over the weekend and into next along the east coast, which could present problems in terms of visibility. Sydney is due to clear up from Monday and Brisbane from Tuesday, though — and Melburnians, fingers crossed that hopefully the weatherman is wrong. Top image: Mike Lewinski via Flickr.
Back in July, Surry Hills favourite Harry's celebrated its return with a $10 burger and cocktail special. Luckily for us, it has decided to make the deal a permanent fixture. You can now enjoy Harry's fan favourite burgers as well as its range of cocktails for just $10, seven days a week. Each day you'll be able to choose between wagyu beef, fried chicken and eggplant schnitzel burgers, with a weekly secret burger option available on Wednesdays. When it comes to cocktails, you have the option of three classics: margarita, Aperol spritz and negroni. The $10 burgers and cocktails come as part of Harry's brand new menu. Lead by Head Chef Gustavo Silveira Melo and Executive Chef Tom Walton, the new lineup also includes taquitos: a popular Mexican street snack of hand-rolled, fried tacos. Barbacoa beef, ancho chicken and chipotle adobo sweet potato taquitos are all available to enjoy alongside traditional pescado, mojo rojo cauliflower and al pastor pork tacos. Mainstays of the Harry's menu like its fish and chips and scotch fillet steak are here to stay, but the potential burger–taco combination is the star of the show. "Burgers and tacos are in our DNA," Chef Gustavo said of the new menu items. "I grew up in Brazil snacking on taquitos and I lived in and out of Mexican restaurants and street food places. I always paired tacos and taquitos with a beer or a margarita." The taquitos are available for three for $9 making them the perfect shared snack or starter before tucking into a burger. If you're not already full from this new selection of mains, the menu also offers a decadent sundae with peanut dulce de leche, vanilla ice cream, violet crumble and a waffle cone for dessert. Harry's is open 11.30am–10.30pm Sunday–Thursday and 11.30am–11.30pm Friday–Saturday at 40/44 Wentworth Avenue, Surry Hills. Top image: Exterior photo by Nikki To.
The property bubble in Australia is officially still swelling, according to Domain's 2026 First Home Buyers Report released this morning. Despite rate cuts and public outcry for more affordable housing — Domain reports that prices of entry-level homes have risen a further 15 percent, averaging at an extra $150,000 in cities across the nation. The exact growth varies in each city, but the data points to growth across the board. In the last year, entry-level prices rose by at least 20 percent in Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Darwin — and Sydney, which saw an annual growth of 15 percent, remains the only city where an entry-level house costs seven figures, $1,150,000 to be exact. In the last five years, it's Adelaide that's seen entry-level house prices rise the most, growing by a whopping 159.2 percent to the current average price of $720,000. [caption id="attachment_1077354" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Ben Goode via iStock[/caption] On the apartments front, prices rose over the last year in every city except one, with the most growth (20 percent or more) recorded in Perth, Adelaide and Darwin. The only city where entry-level unit prices actually fell was Canberra, where an entry-level unit is almost $15,300 cheaper than it was this time last year. The report also details how long it will take buyers to save the funds to meet the cost of a home, or at least a 20 percent deposit. Unsurprisingly, Sydney has the highest figure there, where a 20 percent deposit will cost buyers 7.7 years of saving, followed by Brisbane for 6.3 and Adelaide at 5.7. It averages out to 5 years across Australia, but it's lowest in Darwin, where buyers need only save for 2.7 years [caption id="attachment_877221" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] NeoPhoto via iStock[/caption] When saving for a unit deposit, it's much lower. In Sydney, that will set you back just over three years, and no longer than two years in any other capital city — a figure that's fallen over the last five years in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra. If you thought prices end at the first purchase, the report also reveals that mortgage rates have risen in turn, with all capital city mortgage prices exceeding the 30 percent 'stress threshold', determined by the household income required to pay it off. In Sydney, the average repayments on an entry-level home consume 68 percent of household income, followed by Brisbane at 50 percent and Adelaide at 44 percent. Rates improved in Melbourne, Hobart and Canberra, where rates consume a mere 39 to 41 percent of household income. But, averaging all the capitals, mortgages demand 24 percent more income than they did five years ago. [caption id="attachment_984500" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council[/caption] In terms of solutions to the issue, it's not an easy fix. Domain reports that the federal government's Help to Buy scheme is an effective aid for eligible applicants (individuals earning $100,000 or less), as is the 5% Deposit Scheme, which lowers the minimum deposit for eligible first-time buyers. The main finding? Rates don't match wages, and first-home buyers are facing more constraints than ever before. Read the 2026 First Home Buyer Report in full here.
There's so, so much more to the Snowy Mountains than skiing and snowboarding. When the ice and snow melt away, a whole wonderland of adventures emerges. If you're into the outdoors, get ready to walk and ride (by bike or horse) some of the most spectacular terrain in Australia. If you're a mad foodie, then gear up to taste a bunch of excellent cool climate wines, linger over schnapps made with local produce and sink into some fine French cooking while overlooking a shimmering lake. Meanwhile, for arty types, there are galleries galore. Here are five jam-packed itineraries that'll keep you busy in the Snowies for days — if not weeks — whatever your inclination. [caption id="attachment_659667" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW.[/caption] FOR FOOD LOVERS The Snowies' pristine mountain streams and unspoilt farming land mean there's an abundance of fresh, local produce to sample — from wild-caught trout to freshly picked berries. For a hearty brekkie, grab a table at Central Road 2625 in Thredbo. If you're still in town by dinner time, there's irresistible Italian fare at Segreto within the Thredbo Alpine Hotel. Alternatively, make tracks east to Lake Crackenback Resort for local, seasonal dishes at Cuisine or a woodfired pizza at the laidback Alpine Larder. And a hop, skip and jump down the road is idyllic Crackenback Farm, where farmhouse-style dishes are served up on a sun-dappled terrace. Most conveniently, it's just around the corner from the Wildbrumby distillery, whose delicious European schnapps are made from local fruit. Another option is to head northwest from Thredbo to Tumbarumba, a cool climate wine region known for its stellar chardonnay and pinot noir. Among the outstanding cellar doors are Courabyra and Tuscany-inspired Tumbarumba Wine Escape. If you're after a coffee, head to Nest Cafe or for a meal, there's Elms Restaurant within the Tumbarumba Motel. [caption id="attachment_659672" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Snowy Mountains.[/caption] FOR ADVENTURE SEEKERS How long have you got? Even a total adrenaline junkie could spend months in the Snowies without running out of things to do. A hike is a good place to start, and the classic is the Main Range Walk, a 22-kilometre loop that swings by several glacial lakes before climbing to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko. Looking for a shorter stroll? There are loads of options, including Nichols Gorge in the northern section of Kosciuszko National Park. If mountain biking's your thing, you have hundreds of kilometres to conquer, covering all standards. Novices can get started on the easy Lake Jindabyne Foreshore Trail, then have a crack at the Thredbo Valley Trail, which offers a mix of beginner and more challenging sections. For experienced riders, the 50-kilometre Cascade to Pinch Trail is an extraordinary adventure, taking in stunning alpine terrain and epic panoramas. Then, of course, there's horse riding, for which the Snowies are legendary, thanks to The Man From Snowy River. Take a brief ride with Thredbo Valley Horse Riding or consider a multi-day escapade with Cochran Horse Treks, which involves staying at homesteads along the way. [caption id="attachment_659657" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lake Crackenback Resort Sculpture Trail.[/caption] FOR ART AFICIONADOS From Banjo Paterson to Prue Acton, numerous writers, artists and musicians have sought refuge and inspiration in the Snowies' dramatic, unpredictable landscapes. Begin your explorations at Raglan Gallery and Cultural Centre in Cooma, set inside a 150-year-old former inn. Next, head to Jindabyne to visit Kunama Gallery, where there's a permanent exhibition of works by Alan Grovesnor, who spent decades painting nearby landscapes before passing away in 2012. Also in Jindabyne is the Snowy Region Visitor Centre; its tiny gallery hosts temporary shows by local artists. Should you happen to be passing through in early autumn, make your visit coincide with Lake Light Sculpture, an outdoor event that fills the shores of Lake Jindabyne with illuminated sculptures and the town with artists from far and wide. Visiting at another time? Despair not. Instead, make your way to Lake Crackenback Resort Sculpture Trail or to Wildbrumby distillery, where co-owner Brad Spalding displays his sustainability-themed works made of recycled materials. Then, continue north to Tumbarumba to check out Artists on Parade. [caption id="attachment_659668" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Paul Sinclair / Destination NSW.[/caption] FOR HISTORY BUFFS The Snowy Mountains are famous all over the world for being home to the Snowy Hydro Scheme. Built between 1949 and 1974, this engineering feat channelled the energy of the Snowy River and transformed it into hydroelectricity, which today provides 4500 gigawatt-hours per year to the ACT, NSW and Victoria. To find out all about it, drop into the Snowy Hydro Centre in Cooma. While you're at it, pop into the visitors' centre, grab a map and take the Lambie Town Walk, a five-kilometre stroll that passes through three heritage-listed areas. To stay in the 19th-century, visit the Early Settlers Hut built in the 1840s at Delegate and Burnima Homestead, a 32-room mansion in Bombala with a six-acre garden that dates back to 1896. Half-way up Mount Kosciuszko will transport you into the early 20th-century should you visit the Seaman's Hut, a shelter built in 1929 following the deaths of skiers W. Laurie Seaman and Evan Hayes. [caption id="attachment_659675" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW.[/caption] FOR SIGHTSEERS If your trip to the Snowies is all about seeing classic sights at a leisurely pace, then make your first stop Yarrangobilly Caves, a series of limestone marvels in the northern part of Kosciuszko National Park. Here you'll also find a thermal pool, which is a warming 27 degrees celsius all year-round, and a relaxing river walk. Continuing south, stop by Lake Eucumbene, the biggest lake to have been created by the Snowy Hydro scheme, where you can try your hand at trout fishing, and Lake Jindabyne, which appeared in Australian films Somersault (2004) and Jindabyne (2006). Then, it's on to Thredbo where you can get instant mountain views without having to strain a muscle on the two-kilometre-long, 560-metre-high Kosciuszko Express Lift. While you're in town, take a stroll along pretty Thredbo River. Or, to get an even higher perspective on mighty Mount Kosciuszko, book a scenic flight with Heli Fun. Discover all that the Snowy Mountains has to offer outside of winter months, from picturesque hikes to culinary excursions and so much more.
Describing a dance and a state of uncertainty alike, limbo is one of those always-intriguing words. Many terms boast multiple meanings, but this one skirts two ends of the spectrum — the party-fuelled joy of a parade of people trying to pass under a bar while bending over backwards, and the malaise of being stuck waiting and not knowing. Both require a degree of flexibility, though, to either complete physical feats or weather the fickleness of life (or, in limbo's religious usage, of being caught in an oblivion between heaven and hell). It's no wonder then that British writer/director Ben Sharrock chose the word for his second feature, following 2015's Pikadero. His Limbo lingers in a realm where men are made to contort themselves, biding one's time anticipating a decision is the status quo and feeling like you've been left in a void is inescapable. The fancy footsteps here are of the jumping-through-hoops kind, as Limbo ponders a revelatory question: what happens when refugees are sent to a Scottish island to await the results of their asylum applications? There's zero doubting how telling the movie's moniker is; for Syrian musician Omar (Amir El-Masry, Star Wars: Episode IX — The Rise of Skywalker) and his fellow new arrivals to Scotland, there's little to do in this emptiness between the past and the future but wait, sit at the bus stop, check out the children's playground and loiter near the pay phone. That, and navigate the wide range of reactions from the locals, which veer from offensive to thoughtful. Everything about the situation demands that Omar and his companions make all the expected moves, but it also forces them to potter around in purgatory and stomach whatever is thrown at them to do so. In Omar's case, he's made the trip with an actual case — physically, that is, thanks to his prized possession. He's brought his grandfather's oud with him, which he rarely lets slip from his grasp, and so he feels its weight where he goes. It's a canny part of Limbo's script in two ways. Whatever they're fleeing in search of a better life, every refugee has a case to be welcomed into safer lands that they carry around with them, but Sharrock manifests the idea in a tangible sense. With Omar's musical dreams, which the beloved oud also represents, in limbo as well, the ever-present instrument additionally acts as a constant reminder of the sacrifices that asylum seekers make in leaving their homes, even when there's no other option, and the costs they pay when they're met with less-than-open arms, then left waiting for their new existence to begin. Just as the term limbo means so much, so does that oud — and so does the feature it's in. A film can be heartbreaking, tender, insightful and amusing all at once, and Limbo is indeed all of those things. It's both dreamlike and lived-in, too, a blend that suits its title and story — and also the mental and emotional state shared by Omar and his other asylum seekers as they eke out their hope and resilience day after unchanging day, all while roaming and roving around an island that may as well be another world. The Scottish landscape around them looks like it could grace a postcard, and Sharrock has cinematographer Nick Cooke (Make Up) box it into an almost-square frame to make it resemble vacation snaps. That choice of 1.33:1 aspect ratio also confines the movie's characters in another fashion, of course, offering a blatant visual flipside to the holiday-perfect splendour; being trapped anywhere is bleak, even if it appears picturesque. Omar has company in his misery: in the run-down house he's installed into, Afghani Farhad (Vikash Bhai, Hanna) is more optimistic, while Abedi (Kwabena Ansah, Enterprice) from Ghana and Wasef (Ola Orebiyi, Cherry) from Nigeria wait the wait with them. The biggest events in their routines come via talks by Helga (Sidse Babett Knudsen, The Translators) and Boris (Kenneth Collard, Fanny Lye Deliver'd), government officials, about appropriate behaviour and 'cultural awareness' in the fresh lives they haven't get been given permission to start. If hell is other people, as Jean-Paul Sartre coined, limbo is being told what to do by other people while lacking the means and opportunity to do it. A film can be both heavy and light simultaneously as well, which is another of Limbo's strengths, with every dose of biting truth counterbalanced by a wry streak. Sharrock sees both seriousness and levity in his narrative, his characters and their plights, and recognises the nightmarish and the beautiful in tandem. Obviously, the latter especially applies to the feature's aforementioned haunting cinematography, which lenses a place that keeps Omar pals physically in limbo with a probing eye, but it also ruminates on the small delights. Limbo is a film about people first and foremost, and also spies the solace they bring each other — and the catharsis they find when they need to, including when they're so far from home, not really by choice, and endeavour to find themselves a new one. In a movie that's witty and perceptive, affectionate and poignant, and unwavering and clear-eyed, the tonal seesaw that Sharrock rides and perfects is just that: perfection. Trauma, racism and punishment by bureaucracy sit beside friendship, Freddie Mercury obsessions and binge-watching Friends; yes, whether Ross and Rachel were on a break comes up. Limbo's casting is perfection also, because so much hangs upon El-Masry's ability to convey the whirlwind of emotions torturing Omar inside. He's trying to reconcile where he's stuck now with what he's left, and watching him fight that battle — in scenes where he's calling home to talk to his mother especially — epitomises the film at its most moving. That's the movie overall, too, lingering as it is between knowing what's right, best, smart and safe, and wanting what the heart wants when blighted by pain and dreariness. Limbo is a feature about coping with that dance, and it's something to willingly dwell on.
If you've ever been stuck with the job of throwing away perfectly good food at the end of a hospitality shift, it probably won't shock you that Australian retailers are turfing over three million tonnes of food each year. Or that 80 percent of it is being chucked out simply because it wasn't sold. Thankfully, folks across the country are tackling the issue of unnecessary food waste head-on, with groups like OzHarvest and SecondBite built around the concept of redistributing unused food to the needy. And now, you can help fight the issue and save money on grub simultaneously, thanks to a new locally born app called Y Waste. Currently operating in Adelaide, Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, the app helps you locate businesses in your area that have surplus food to offload at the end of the day. You can then purchase it at a discounted price, paying via your smartphone and picking it up from the venue at the allocated time. Depending on which city you're searching in, you might find sandwiches and salads from the local cafe, unsold pastries from that nearby bakery, or even freshly made pizzas, all going cheap. The only restriction is that you have to take what's left — so if you're a picky eater or have dietary restrictions, this may not be for you. Sydney's offering includes Newtown's The Pie Tin, which is serving up a box of unsold pies for $2.90, Sol Coffee Bar in Campsie, serving up a mix of sandwiches and salads for $4, and Neutral Bay's Tonic Lane, which has mixed bags of cold and hot dishes going for $5. In Melbourne, you'll find venues like Coburg's Falafel House, serving up two falafels for $7, and Richmond's Fruscolino Pizza, with a large pizza going for only $9.90, in the lineup. In Brisbane, you can snag $5 pizzas at South Brisbane's Presto Pizza and $2.75 breads, sandwiches and muffins from 3Js Cafe in Woody Point. Now you can nab a budget-friendly feed and feel good about your efforts. The Y Waste app is available to for iOS and Android. Image: The Pie Tin, Newtown
If you’ve been to the Himalayas lately, you’ll know just how big a problem plastic water bottles are. Rubbish left by trekkers ends up in villages, where waste treatment systems are often non-existent. What’s more, about 50 billion plastic bottles are produced globally each year and, in Australia alone, 373 million or so become landfill. So, a bunch of Spain-based design students have invented a water vessel that leaves no waste behind whatsoever — because you can eat it when you’ve finished drinking. Named ‘Ooho’, it’s actually more a sphere than a bottle, and it’s made of brown algae and calcium chloride. While that might not exactly sound like a MasterChef creation, it is digestible. And there’s every chance it’s good for your teeth. The ingredients are cooked to form a double gelatinous membrane that protects the water inside, keeping it hygienic and well-sealed. "Liquid forms drops because the liquid exhibits surface tension," designers Guillaume Couche, Pierre Paslier and Rodrigo Garcia Gonzalez explain. “Bounded completely, or almost completely, by free surfaces. Ooho replicates this behaviour, encircling the water in an edible membrane of algae.” Spheres cost just 2 cents a pop and can be made in various sizes. None of the serious infrastructure involved in PET plastic manufacturing is necessary. In fact, the designers are pretty certain that it won’t be long before everyone will able to cook their own Oohos in their kitchen. The Ooho was one of 12 winners in the 2014 Lexus Design Award. ‘Curiosity’ was the theme, and other awarded inventions included an innovative time-telling device from India, an e-wheel from Vietnam and a den-building kit from the UK. Via Inhabitat.
Back in 1978, Jim Jones took his followers, the Peoples Temple, from the USA down to Guyana in a bid to start a new community, based on social ideals and free from what he perceived to be the tyranny of the capitalist system. This act resulted in the death of 909 people, poisoned by an infamous barrel of cyanide-laced Kool-Aid.Cut to 44 BC, Rome as seen through the lens of Shakespeare, and we find a republic collapsing as fiery, charismatic personalities clash in an effort to wrest control from the self-proclaimed demigod, Julius Caesar. In an act of reinvigoration, director Kate Revz has combined these two apocalyptic communities in her production of Julius Caesar, drawing her audience's attention to the wars that are waged for souls and minds, rather than dirt and oil. Her vision is secure for the most part, with the Republic's death rattles mapping neatly onto the sweaty jungle of Jonestown. Lucilla Smith's set design, as well as Caitlin Porter's maddening jungle soundscape, play a strong role in creating this desperate world.Populating Revz's Rome is a cast filled with the talent to both traumatise and inspire. James Mackay's Marc Anthony is a stellar orator, able to turn the tide of revolution in his favour all while mourning his beloved Caesar. Opposing Anthony is lead conspirator Cassius (Brent Hill), whose downward spiral is greatly portrayed in the second half of the show. However, it is the people that matter in Rome, and Revz's production rewards her audience for looking away from the speakers: the dark corners of the stage are constantly alive with shivering and weeping forms, which adds greatly to the atmosphere of the play. One striking moment is the silent interchange between Megan O'Connell and Aimee Horne across the body of Brutus' wife, Portia (Gemma Pranita).There is only one jarring flaw in this production, and that is the annoying presence of a pole immediately in front of the audience. Sadly this pole seems to cover an arc that contains many key moments of the play, tearing what might have been affecting images right through the middle. Aside from this, the other faults are only minor quibbles â€" a common tendency to fall back into traditional Shakespearean voice against the grain of the Jonestown setting, as well as pockets of overacting that rub raw amongst the subtler performances. As far as debuts go, Julius Caesar is a mighty birth for Revz's theatrical co-operative, Cry Havoc, and certainly marks this as a creative ensemble to keep watching.https://youtube.com/watch?v=SSRKWb4LO3w
“Your nose like a delicious slope of cream / And your ears like cream flaps / And your teeth like hard shiny pegs of cream.” Diner en Blanc — like Howard Moon's poem — will have you in all white. But sorry, Booshers: the second edition of this Sydney event is just for the sophisticated. Now on five continents, the Diner en Blanc began in Paris 25 years ago thanks to François Pasquier and friends. This year, around 3000 of Sydney's creme de la creme will once again dress in all white on Saturday, November 30, for the event held at an iconic location that remains secret until the very last moment. Following an evening of elegance, fine dining and live music, the foodies then pack up their crystal, dinnerware, tables and litter. Like ghosts (white 'n' all), they leave behind no sign of their rendezvous. (But don't get any ideas: a white sheet thrown over your figure will not do for an outfit). Diner en Blanc guests must either be invited by a member from the previous year, or get on the waiting list for a $38.50 ticket (+$5.50 membership fee).
Inside the towering frame of Crown Sydney, Sydney's most luxurious building by a long shot, is one particular hideaway, the Presidential Villa — Sydney's most expensive hotel room. It has welcomed the likes of Taylor Swift, Oprah Winfrey and Drake for $38,000 a night. You can get a taste of that luxury through Suite Sessions — an intimate concert series (think NPR Tiny Desk but with marble and all-the-way-to-the-horizon views instead of desks and bookshelves) that takes place in that very room. Kicking off the 2026 Suite Sessions series is Melanie C, aka Sporty Spice, who's booked the 88th-floor room for a one-night-only acoustic gig this Thursday, March 12. Split across two sessions (6–8pm and 8.30–10.30pm), the sessions welcome just 90 guests each, with food and drinks provided by Nobu. It's not just music, too; you'll be seated for a Q&A session with the former Spice Girl discussing her life and career in depth. Melanie C said: "I'm so excited to perform in such a unique setting as the Crown Sydney Presidential Villa. Having the chance to perform acoustically in a beautiful, intimate setting is such a special way to connect with fans and share some of my favourite songs over the years." Crown Sydney is making the most of the occasion with a Wannabe High Tea following the gigs, hosted at Teahouse from Friday, March 13 to Sunday, March 15. Expect luxe bites, Spice Girls-themed cocktails and plenty of bubbles in an experience that's sure to make your whole group zig-a-zig ah. Suite Sessions featuring Melanie C take place across two sessions this Thursday, March 12. For more information or to get tickets, visit the website.
Priding themselves on being behind one of the St George area's best florists, the dedicated team at Hillcrest Florist are a must-visit for any occasion that marks the need for a new arrangement. Hillcrest delivers on the same day to homes, offices, hospitals, churches, nursing homes, schools and wedding venues in and around Hurstville Grove — you name the place, the team will get your blooms there. And we're not just talking traditional blooms like roses, lilies and gerberas, but native Australian arrangements and plants, too. Oh, and if you're prone to sending house plants to an early death, the team will give you step-by-step instructions on keeping your leafy companion alive. Images: Trent van der Jagt.
Perhaps this is the legacy of being brought up an only child, but half the time I'm walking down the street I'm involved in elaborate daydreams soundtracked by my iPod. This is why audio guides have always held a certain attraction for me, because they have the potential to give you the daydream pre-packaged. Now the French Institute Alliance Française's annual New York-based festival piece Crossing the Line has taken the idea to a completely different level, transforming your run of the mill walking tour into an intrepid adventure merging fact and fiction, with the help of conceptual sound collective, Soundwalk. Crossing the Line leads listeners on an hour and a half's merry journey down New York's Museum Mile. Five writers devised narratives for the new and improved audio guides, inspired by landmarks, objects or the neighbourhood around 5th Avenue, combining authentic and imaginary stories which all aim to answer the question "what do we rely on to determine the truth from fiction?" The tour begins at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, winds its way through the Neue Gallerie and the Guggenheim, and finishes up in Central Park. The narratives are combined with experimental sounds to frame the stories, making the distinction between fiction and reality even more blurry. Available in both French and English, the audio guides can be downloaded individually or as a set from the Soundwalk website. The festival runs through until October 16, but for those of us who have neither the time nor the cash to go for a casual meander through the streets of Manhattan, you can download the audio guides or listen online at the Soundwalk website for a vicarious walking tour aided by the magic of Google Maps. [Via Cool Hunting]
June in Sydney is all about the Winter Solstice, Vivid lights and an epic all-day sandwich menu where bread is boss. To avoid confusion allow us a moment to clarify. While the first two examples obviously allude to the kind of mid-year milestones you mark on your calendar, the latter refers to June's Shoppe — a cute cafe located within Sydney's Wynyard Precinct which happens to share its name with the sixth month of the year. However, in contrast to the chilly weather typically expected at this time, June's is a sunny, bright yellow hole-in-the-wall that serves up morning coffees, tasty pastries and takeaway lunch items, such as salads, soups and sandwiches. Speaking of the aforementioned sambos, June's is committed to the carb-cause with its all-day sandwich menu curated by Culinary Director of Applejack Hospitality Group Patrick Friesen. With a menu inspired by Tokyo's iconic King George deli, loaf-lovers can expect thick doorstep sandwiches packed to the brim with fresh fillings and even fresher made-on-site sauces. Our picks include the fennel pork ($18) with pesto, pickled chillies, provolone and crunchy rapini, the spicy fried chicken sandwich ($20) drenched in comeback sauce and the tuna salad ($18) option which swaps out the canned variety for chunky tartare, paired with cucumber, radish and rocket. Plant-based peeps will also be pretty pleased with the options on offer, which include the mushroom melt ($18) made with mixed mushies, spinach and a triple-threat cheese combo of provolone, vintage cheddar and mozzarella; the kick-heavy spiced sweet potato salad ($18); and the classic salad sambo ($18) crammed with cucumber, tomato, beetroot, carrots, alfalfa, monster mayo and vintage cheddar. While the sandwiches are the star of the show here, spare a moment for the supporting acts including top-notch coffee ($4.20–5.70) made with Gabriel beans, flaky almond croissants and turmeric lattes ($5–6).
There are plenty of ways to mark a movie milestone. Whenever one of your favourite flicks notches up five, ten, 20, 30 or more years since first hitting screens, watching it is the easiest way to celebrate, of course. That's definitely in order when the original animated version of The Lion King — not the recent live-action take — hits three decades in 2024. How to truly do justice to the Disney smash that spawned a musical, ample sequels and oh-so-much enduring affection? Seeing it show at an in-concert session with a live orchestra playing its songs and score. Yes, The Lion King in Concert is coming to Australia, with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra doing the honours. The blockbuster movie-and-music performance was announced as part of MSO's just-unveiled 2024 season, and will take over The Plenary at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday, February 3. This is an Aussie premiere, too, featuring Hans Zimmer's score and Elton John and Tim Rice's songs performed live as the movie once again graces a silver screen. As Nicholas Buc conducts, audiences will be feeling the love that night — and day, thanks to both 1pm and 7.30pm sessions — and celebrating the circle of life as well. Just can't wait to commemorate 30 years since the film debuted, instantly becoming an all-ages favourite? Add this chance to revisit Simba's journey to your calendar. Both John and Rice's tunes, and Zimmer's music, won Oscars. The former were nominated three times in the same field, in fact, with 'Can You Feel the Love Tonight?' winning out over 'Circle of Life' and 'Hakuna Matata'. So, yes, seeing any film as its score is played live is a rousing experience, but this one will feel particularly powerful. There's no word yet whether The Lion King in Concert will be a Melbourne exclusive in addition to being an Aussie premiere, or if it'll make the rounds of other city-based symphony orchestras. Some such shows hop around the country, as Star Wars, Harry Potter and Zimmer-focused gigs have. Others have stuck to one place, as seen with past The Princess Bride, Home Alone and Toy Story performances, and the upcoming Black Panther. Sydneysiders, Brisbanites and folks elsewhere, perhaps cross your fingers while you channel a "hakuna matata" mindset. You can always stream the sing-along version while you wait for local dates. Check out the trailer for The Lion King below: The Lion King in Concert will play The Plenary, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, on Saturday, February 3, 2024. Head to the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra website for further details, and tickets from Tuesday, October 3, 2023.
This article is part of our series on the 17 most unique things to have come out of Japan. Check out the other 16. Those who scoffed at the idea might not mind owning the patent right now. And neither would the selfie stick’s original inventor. Hiroshi Ueda was working as an engineer for Minolta back in the ‘80s when he came up with what he named an ‘extender stick’, the idea for which was inspired by a theft. He and his wife asked a child to take their photo at Paris’s Louvre Museum. The child agreed, but, as soon as he got the camera into his hot little hands, bolted. Frustrated, Ueda invented a device that would allow him to take care of his photos himself and patented it in 1983. There was no commercial interest, however, so the patent ran out in 2003. Fast-forward 30 years and you can’t move in a crowd for fear of being poked in the eye with a selfie stick. In fact, they’re becoming such a pain that numerous festivals and venues are banning them. They’re certainly not welcome at Coachella or Lollapalooza and, in March this year, London’s National Gallery gave them the old heave-ho. So if you were planning on capturing your beaming face in front of Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, you’ll have to settle for a close-up. Top image: Dollar Photo Club.
The 'art world' is a concept just as tricky to define as 'art' itself. Opinions on what distinguishes 'good' from 'poor', 'high-brow' from 'low-brow', 'contemporary' from plain bizarre are essentially endless. No one seems quite sure what qualifies an 'artist' to be labeled as such. And what is this 'world', this community, they belong in? One thing all artists and art enthusiasts cannot dispute, however, is a cold, hard fact. The Art Newspaper serves up an annual batch of exhibit attendance figures to reveal which exhibitions were best attended. No matter what your taste or opinions, 2011 brought an eclectic jumble to the forefront; here are 10 of the most attended exhibits. 1. The Magical World of Escher Where: The Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil Visitors per day: 9,677 This exhibition brought together the best-known trippy drawings and prints by the Dutch artist. 2. Kukai’s World: the Arts of Esoteric Buddhism Where: The Tokyo National Museum Visitors per day: 9,108 Featuring 99 items - some certified national treasures - related to Kukai, the famous Japanese Buddhist priest, this exhibit celebrates 'Esoteric Buddhism'. Kukai brought the practice with him from China during the early 9th century. 3. Landscape Reunited Where: The National Palace Museum Visitors per day: 8,828 Reuniting the two halves of Huang Gongwang's Chinese scroll painting Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains, this exhibit pieced together the 660-year-old work from the sections formerly split between China and Taiwan. The piece, considered one of the most important in Chinese painting, has not been exhibited in its entirety since 1940. 4. Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty Where: Metropolitan Museum of Art Visitors per day: 8,025 The Costume Institute's posthumous tribute to Alexander McQueen featured his groundbreaking works of fashion. 5. Claude Monet (1840-1926) Where: The Grand Palais Visitors per day: 7,609 The likes of this exhibit had been MIA in Paris for years, making this collection of over 200 impressionist Monet works even more of a must-see. 6. Photoquai Where: Musée Quai Branly Visitors per day: 7,304 A free, outdoor celebration of non-Western photography, Photoquai held its third edition in 2011. 7. Mariko Mori: Oneness Where: Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil Visitors per day: 6,991 Toyko-born, New York-raised Mariko Mori designed this contemporary exhibit to be interactive, with some pieces visually interpreting attendees brainwaves, and others lighting up when touched. 8. Monumenta: Anish Kapoor Where: The Grand Palais Visitors per day: 6,967 Kapoor's temporary, site-specific installation challenged the confines of the Grand Palais belle epoque exhibition hall. 9. Laurie Anderson Where: Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil Visitors per day: 6,934 For her first solo show in Brazil, Anderson chose to feature 31 works that "told stories". 10. The Prado Museum Where: The Hermitage Visitors per day: 6,649 Madrid's Prado Museum created its own little 66-piece museum inside of St. Petersburg's State Hermitage Museum as the first of a two-part exhibition exchange. The Hermitage Museum will be featured at the Prado through March 2012. [via Flavorwire]
No matter what season it is, we're a cheese-loving society. We'll eat, breathe and live all things cheese, because it really does go with almost anything. And now that comfort food season is upon us, it's time for cheese at its warm and gooey best — including at Darlinghurst's Black Bottle. As first launched last year, the Mediterranean-style wine bar is serving up fromage in a box every Wednesday. Cold weather calls for hot cheese, obviously. The dish is similar to raclette, but smaller and better. Plus, it comes ready-made for date nights, with each oven-baked portion perfect for two. Not only do you get a glorious parcel of melted cheese, but you'll be able to pour it on potatoes, dip cured meats into it, and also feast on salad. And sip wine, if you like, although that'll cost you extra. The fromage in a box special is $39 per person, with a two-person, $78 minimum — so grab your dairy-loving partner or bestie and get sharing.
Plastic is a major ecological burden impacting oceans around the world, including here in Sydney. Researchers predict that by 2050 plastic will outweigh fish in the sea. Those looking to make a difference while enjoying a uniquely Sydney experience can join this guided kayak around Sydney Harbour that also serves to cleanup the ocean. Sydney by Kayak is an organisation that runs kayaking lessons and tours throughout the city. For the past several years, the company has been running guided tours with the express purpose of removing rubbish from the ocean. The sustainability-focused tours generally hit the harbour four days a week: Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. Each tour runs from 9.30–11am and costs $50 per person. Included in the tour is 90 minutes on the water taking in the sights and removing rubbish from the water, two kayak guides to take you around, photos in front of the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge and a complimentary coffee (in a reusable cup of course). All equipment is also provided and cleaned with marine safe disinfectant between tours. Sydney by Kayak is aiming to collect 200 kilograms of rubbish in February 2021 and also donates $15 from every seat sold to funding Seabins around Sydney. You can book online or email laura@sydneybykayak.com.au for a private tour for 8–12 people.
There's nothing quite like the ballet to make one feel bumbling and ungainly, and in a strange, magical way, there's nothing quite like ballet — when it's good — to make one feel weightless and a little giddy. Of late, the Australian Ballet have been adept at the latter, and its latest production, Vanguard, is a dazzling triptych of style, skill and passion spread throughout three very different works: The Four Temperaments (1946), Bella Figura (1995) and Dyad 1929 (2009). Each piece unique, the staging of three allows us to see not just the past, present and future but also the diverse ground that the company is happily traversing. The Four Temperaments is a landmark abstract ballet from the legendary Georges Balanchine, daring in its time and still so clean and modern now. Comprised of five parts, theme and the four humours — Melancholic, Sanguinic, Phlegmatic and Choleric — Balanchine's effortless precision is nicely realised. The darkly romantic Bella Figura sits boldly in the middle, much more richly mysterious than its bookends. Jiří Kylián's ballet focuses on a mix of strong and swirling gesticulations, sensuality and a welcome self-knowing humour. Here, the curtains fall and frame and interact with the dancers, adding drama to their dreamy, partially naked grace. Returning to the company’s repertoire is the third and final ballet, Dyad 1929, created specifically for the Australian Ballet in 2009 by British choreographer Wayne McGregor, and this rendition is even more enjoyable than I remembered. Five years on, it's still an angular dazzler that invites each dancer to hold a unique space on the stage. The piece is dedicated to the memory of Merce Cunningham, and it's clear that his vision was of great influence to McGregor, with Dyad 1929 (the sister piece to Dyad 1909) as coolly energetic as its frenetic score by Steve Reich. If you’ve just seen First Position, the latest in the long chorus line of limber tween and teen dancing documentaries, this serves as a neat double (quadruple?) bill. First, the agony of overstretched limbs and exhaustively long hours caught on camera, followed by a live display of strength and beauty. Vanguard has been put together so effectively, you'll not just leave feeling buoyant; you'll probably want a restorative ice bath, too. Photo by Branco Gaica.
Some films about playthings are adorable and heartwarming, as Pixar so convincingly proved with its Toy Story franchise. Others are unsettling and nightmarish, a fact both the Child's Play and Annabelle movies have tried to capitalise upon — and now Netflix's The Haunting of Bly Manor is following in their footsteps. Dolls and plenty of them feature in the show's first teaser trailer, which introduces the streaming platform's follow-up to its 2018 hit The Haunting of Hill House. Obviously, an eerie abode also plays a very prominent part as well, because that's this anthology saga's gambit — but every horror fan knows that an unnerving home and terrifying toys make quite the combination. Once again created and co-directed by filmmaker Mike Flanagan (Doctor Sleep), The Haunting of Bly Manor adapts Henry James' 1898 horror novella The Turn of the Screw, which means that it heads into gothic chiller and even romance territory. As set in 1980s England, the show's narrative kicks off when Henry Wingrave (Henry Thomas, Stargirl) hires an American nanny (Victoria Pedretti, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) to look after his orphaned niece Flora (Amelie Bea Smith) and nephew Miles (Benjamin Evan Ainsworth). Her employment follows the death of an au pair, and her arrival at Bly Manor exposes the estate's centuries of secrets. As The Haunting of Hill House fans will have spotted, both Thomas and Pedretti return from that series, as do The Invisible Man's Oliver Jackson-Cohen and Gerald's Game's Kate Siegel — all playing different characters this time around. And, if you'd been wondering what you'll be watching to celebrate the spookiest month of the year — October, obviously — The Haunting of Bly Manor has you covered, as it'll drop on Friday, October 9. Check out the teaser below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxeiY2W03Mc The Haunting of Bly Manor will hit Netflix on Friday, October 9. Top image: Eike Schroter/Netflix.
There are few crimes more abhorrent or unsettling than the abduction of a child. Even a child's murder carries with it the singular, hollow silver lining of closure for the family, whereas abduction offers only unanswered questions. Grief requires certainty before it can begin, and anything short of that feeds desperation and a cruel modicum of hope. Cruel, because whilst it provides much-needed energy and motivation, hope also clouds reason and fuels obsession, and it's there in that dark space of violent fixation that French-Canadian director Denis Villeneuve sets his new film, Prisoners. Played out in the suburbs of a dreary, unnamed American town, Prisoners centres around the kidnapping of two young girls and the lengths to which their families will go to bring them home. In particular, it follows Keller Dover (Hugh Jackman), a carpenter and survivalist who becomes fixated upon the primary suspect, Alex Jones (Paul Dano). When the police let Alex go, believing him to be innocent, Dover kidnaps him in a moment of desperation and, alongside the other father (Terrence Howard), begins to torture him. It is brutal, deeply disturbing and given none of the glamour or moral justification seen in films like Taken or the 24 series. The allusions to America's war on terror and plain enough, though never so heavy-handed as to be intrusive. Much like Villeneuve's last film, Incendies (which earned him an Oscar nomination in 2010), Prisoners is uncompromising in its depiction of violence and makes no attempt to shape any character as a hero. With themes spanning the banality of evil, blood lust, compulsion, godlike vengeance, power and domination, Aaron Guzikowski's script avoids whenever possible the use of absolutes, focusing instead on the pacts even the best may make with evil and exposing the falsehood of civility in the face of aggressive self-interest. Even Jake Gyllenhaal's character, Loki, the police officer assigned to the investigation, is presented as a tortured soul and loner whose every conversation ends in abuse or argument. There is no joy in this film, nor perhaps should there be given its subject matter, but at 153 minutes it makes for a long and exhausting viewing experience. What grounds it are the performances, with Maria Bello and Viola Davis both excellent as the despairing mothers, and Melissa Leo turning in another fine and layered performance not unlike her role in 2011's Red State. Jackman is the standout, however, delivering a powerful portrayal of a man driven to the edge of sanity by anger and despair. https://youtube.com/watch?v=doPNgss-ntc
Faces carve deep impressions in Longlegs, in both their presence and their absence. As Agent Lee Harker, Maika Monroe (God Is a Bullet) does so with a clenched jaw, permanently on-edge eyes and mere bursts of words, aka the guise of a woman who'll never stop being vigilant in every moment but doesn't always know exactly why. As the movie's namesake, as announced in the opening credits, Nicolas Cage (Dream Scenario) has audiences straining to catch whatever glimpse they can whenever they can — and when a full look comes, it's scorching and haunting in tandem in the stare alone. Blair Underwood (Origin) gives Harker's boss Carter a weary gaze, but with fully rounded life experience beyond his FBI gig evident behind it. Alicia Witt (Switch Up) plays Ruth Harker, mother to Lee, as distance and struggle personified. As she relays a tale as survivor Carrie Anne Camera, Kiernan Shipka (Twisters) demonstrates how disconnected a grim reality can be from a dream. For his fourth feature following 2015's The Blackcoat's Daughter, 2016's I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House and 2020's Gretel & Hansel — the first of which also starred Shipka — writer/director Osgood Perkins has clearly assembled an excellent cast for his unease-dripping, get-under-your-skin, torment-your-nightmares serial-killer thriller. Another face leaves an imprint beyond his actors, however. Bill Clinton's portrait assists with setting the scene as it adorns bureau offices, with the majority of the movie taking place in the 90s. Think the FBI and three decades back, and there's no lack of pop-culture touchstones. The Silence of the Lambs is one. Monroe's portrayal as a newly minted operative tracking a murderer is every bit as layered, complex and unforgettable — and awards-worthy — as Jodie Foster's (True Detective: Night Country) Oscar-winning performance was. Twin Peaks and The X-Files, Point Break, even Cage's own Face/Off: they all also hail from the 90s and spin stories around the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This lineage is impossible not to ponder every time that Perkins reminds Longlegs viewers of the period that he's working with via Clinton's likeness — and it's a bold move. Getting your audience recalling other films and TV shows can simply spark the wish that they were watching those titles instead, especially when the list is as glorious as the aforementioned flicks and series. But the filmmaker who first started out in horror as a child actor walking in his father's footsteps — Anthony Perkins played Norman Bates in Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho; Osgood was young Norman in Psycho II — makes good on the gambit. No one with their peepers glued to Longlegs would rather be ingesting anything else, no matter how equally exceptional, as it weaves its hypnotic spell. Longlegs bedevils and bewitches early, and earlier than its main era. The pristine snow that surrounds a young girl (Lauren Acala, Motherland: Port Salem) in her yard is a visual blank slate, soon darkened in shadow when Longlegs arrives with happy birthday wishes — and the mood, as thrumming through in feature first-timer Andres Arochi's cinematography, plus Graham Fortin (Ari's Theme) and Greg Ng's (Allegiance) editing, is as thick as the white blanket across the ground with apprehension and tension. When the movie hops forward, already festering is the feeling of an innocent state sullied. That's before learning about Harker and Carter's case, with a string of murder-suicides resembling each other garnering their attention. Families perish, fathers attacking before turning their violence upon themselves, which might be open and shut if there weren't a spate of such incidents over decades, if questions about motive weren't glaring, if a compulsive force — supernatural or otherwise — hadn't earned some thought and if letters in code signed by Longlegs weren't also found at the scenes. There's more than a tightly wound ball of anxiety to Harker, who sports a surname that brings being pursued and toyed with by Dracula — who Cage played in 2023's Renfield — to mind. (Longlegs is the second 2024 horror film to nod to Bram Stoker in its characters' monikers, after Ishana Night Shyamalan's The Watchers.) The movie's lead is also a source of intuition and perhaps clairvoyance, which the FBI is keen to capitalise upon. Indeed, that's why she's been assigned to the Longlegs investigation. She's as dedicated as dedicated comes when sifting through the analogue array of clues, too, with paper and tape amid dimly lit, cabin-esque interiors adding to the tactile sensation. As terse phone calls with her mum illustrate, there's nothing distracting her from her gig, either. Via framing, frequently with symmetry, Perkins conveys that Harker isn't just consumed by chasing down Longlegs — it might be the on-screen fate of ample detectives, including in Se7en and Zodiac, two David Fincher masterpieces that are also patent influences, but the hunt is consuming her back. With the fellow chillers that beat Longlegs to existence, and with elements as familiar in horror as serial killers, the occult, crime-solving procedural crusades, fixated sleuths and all-encompassing disquiet — to name just a few genre go-tos plastered across Perkins' cinematic mood board — the approach is fondness-meets-the filmmaker's own interpretation. That's the picture's guiding principle everywhere, including in Monroe and Cage's immense contributions, each of which is among their respective career highlights. All of Longlegs' key parties know that viewers have seen plenty of these same pieces before in a myriad of ways, and possess a single-minded resolve to avoiding serving up the same. Monroe does this with It Follows and The Guest on her filmography, the 2014 one-two punch about evil lurking among the ordinary and safe spaces terrorised. Cage does it with four decades of efforts that've solidified him as not just a singular actor but the singular actor, and ceaselessly able to surprise. Perkins crafts Longlegs as a dollmaker might, with the utmost of care apparent in each and every component, all building a creation that feels like it's staring piercingly back at you. He isn't afraid of a surreal Lynchian vibe, showing that waking life can immerse you in as much of a frightscape as the worst that your brain can conceive while slumbering — perhaps the most-alarming realisation that there is — but, again, as run through his own filter. He also isn't scared of using sound design to burrow that agitation deep into the audience's subconscious, so that Longlegs is distressing your soul before you, like Harker, are even aware. Chief among the film's strokes of genius is how inescapable its intense dread is, regardless of which traditional horror symbols taunt those watching or how much of Cage as Longlegs can be seen. In an instant classic, all of its pivotal faces are mirrors, then, reflecting the viewer's own.
Yoko Ono. The name carries a lot of associations. John Lennon. The Beatles and their subsequent break-up. Weird clothing designs and weirder musical experimentations. Regardless of what Yoko means to you, her retrospective, War Is Over! (if you want it), at the Museum of Contemporary Art is well worth a look. She's a powerhouse of an artist and she's racked up a surprising amount of achievements in her 80 years, many of which have been eclipsed by the spectre of Lennon. Yoko's life has been peppered with hardship. Born in 1933 in Tokyo, her father got a job in San Francisco and the family spent the next few years moving from Japan to the U.S. and back again. They were living in Tokyo when the U.S. decided to firebomb the city. Her father was held in a concentration camp while his once wealthy family was forced to carry their possessions in a wheelbarrow and beg for food. Fast-forward a few years. Her second husband, Anthony Cox, has abducted the daughter she had with him, changed the child's name and absconded to an underground Christian sect. She found love with Lennon but the years she spent with him were no walk in the park, either. She suffered a miscarriage, served as the target of crushing hatred and vitriol following the break-up of the Beatles and then, in 1980, she witnessed her husband's brutal murder at the entrance to the Dakota Building in New York. It's a litany of woe and what is most remarkable is that in the face of all this, Yoko has become a tireless proponent of peace and love. What is striking about War Is Over! (if you want it) is the sheer joyfulness of the pieces. The exhibition is ridiculously happy-making. The works are highly conceptual but very, very accessible and many encourage viewer interaction. When first entering the gallery, you'll be greeted by several tables with chess sets atop them. It will take a moment to notice that all the pieces are white. In order to effectively play the game, both participants need to actively engage in discussion. It's tremendous fun. Glass Keys to Open the Skies is another notable work. The small keys sit, evenly spaced, in a small Perspex box. It’s such a wonderful trigger for the imagination. Another work invites you to write a small message to your mother which you then tack to the gallery wall, allowing everyone to broadcast a message to your mum on one of the most 'important' walls in Australia. Many of the works involve wishing or hope for something better. There's a box where you can make a travel wish and up on the terrace there are a few of Yoko's Wish Trees. You write a wish on a small piece of paper then attach it with twine to the branches of the tree. The effect of the paper and twine amongst the leaves is beautiful. Perhaps the real magic of the work lies in the reading of other people's wishes. It can be a profoundly affecting exercise. You're reminded that we all pretty much want the same things. Most of the wishes fall into the same category - the desire for happiness both for ourselves and the people we love. Would she be as famous today had she not married Lennon? Probably not, but does it matter? She's a wonderful artist.
Time for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure? Don't settle for an experience that might better be described as "once-in-a-while." Fortunately, there's no such problem when it comes to Legendary Journeys – Ultimate Private Experience by Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world's largest independent hotel brand. Delivered in partnership with Bucketlist Xperiences, this ultra-luxe 17-night itinerary spans Singapore, India, Rwanda, Kenya, Greece, Morocco and London, departing Tuesday, October 6, 2026, and shaped for those seeking a truly unparalleled escape. Flying on a private VIP airliner customised for luxury travel, up to 58 passengers will relish an epicurean experience, with an in-flight chef serving gourmet cuisine alongside curated wines and spirits. Meanwhile, the trip is taken to the next level with seamless transfers, private airport access, luggage concierge and personalised gifts. Throughout the itinerary, a 17-member service team will oversee every detail, no matter how small. Oh, and a professional photographer and videographer will be on hand to document every leg of the journey. With non-stop highlights over three weeks, this exclusive experience begins in Singapore with a two-night stay overlooking Marina Bay. Expect sunset cocktails on the roof and a welcome celebration perched above the waterfront. Then, this trip is bound for Jaipur, India, where guests will stay amid palatial splendour in Rajasthan before taking VIP excursions to iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal, the Amber Fort and the City Palace. Africa awaits next, with guests headed to Kigali, Rwanda, for a two-night visit. Staying at the newly opened Mövenpick Kigali, guests are welcomed with a private reception hosted by President Kagame (yes, really). The following day, climb into a helicopter to soar above the Virunga Mountains, then trek through Volcanoes National Park to catch a glimpse of local gorilla populations. The wildlife experience continues in Kenya, where guests sleep in luxury safari tents as they embark on thrilling Big Five game drives between sunrise hot-air balloon flights and champagne breakfasts served deep in remote plains. Trading in dry and dusty conditions for Aegean coastal bliss, the journey soon touches down in Santorini, Greece, with guests relishing the Oia cliffside. Soak up a sunset sailing adventure, then sip on rare Assyrtiko vintages native to the region. Onwards to Marrakech, Morocco, guests will head into the medina for some local shopping, with time to spare unwinding in a traditional hammam. Rounding out this extravagant adventure is a final stop in London, with guests delighting in the world's first super boutique hotel — The Londoner. So, what does it cost to experience this genuinely once-in-a-lifetime holiday? Just a cool $133,500 USD per person. Sure, that's not the kind of money most of us can find down the back of the couch. But if you're a high-flying traveller with the means to make it happen, look no further for the vacation of your dreams. "Our mission has always been to connect travellers with the world's most remarkable independent hotels and destinations in ways that are both unforgettable and transformative," says Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Legendary Journeys – Ultimate Private Experience by Preferred Hotels & Resorts takes place from Tuesday, October 6—Friday, October 23, 2026. Head to the website for more information.
If you haven't been to Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau) — or it's been a while — it's time to get (re)acquainted. Emanating a fresh urban energy, Auckland is buzzing with bar and restaurant openings, thought-provoking exhibitions, and thrilling outdoor adventures — all while honouring its unique cultural legacy. If you play it right, Auckland feels more like a creative playground than a city — you just need to know what mood you're in. Whether you're feeling adventurous, romantic or indulgent, here's how to nail your next Auckland visit. What To Do When You Feel Like… A Hit Of Adrenaline Need a healthy rush? It's not every day you can jump off a country's highest landmark but Auckland's Sky Tower offers you the chance to do just that. Described as base jumping by wire, SkyJump is an 11-second freefall from 192 metres high. Reach speeds of up to 85 kilometres per hour before coming to a smooth landing at the base — so enjoy the view up there. Too fast? Scale the Auckland Harbour Bridge with a two-hour guided tour right to the top. Soak up 360-degree views of the city, embark on a sunset tour, or double down on the adrenaline by bungee jumping off the bridge instead. Auckland's Waiheke Island is home to an array of zip lines guaranteed to get your heart racing. EcoZip Adventures offers a three-hour zipline journey through the treetops, soaring high above lush, native forest, while the Man O' War Forest Flight allows you to comfortably zip at your own pace across three 200-metre ziplines and boardwalks, ending at Man O' War's magnificent winery for a tasting. What To Do When You Feel Like… Indulging In Some 'Me Time' While a holiday is generally considered 'me time', jam-packed itineraries and travelling with others can sometimes leave us craving a solo outing. Luckily, Auckland boasts many indulgent treatments to help you find solace. Treat yourself to spa treatments at Chuan Spa in the city. Offering luxurious experiences that blend traditional Chinese medicine with modern wellness, you can expect a satisfying menu of treatments and facilities, including massages, facials, saunas, herbal steam rooms, and a heated rooftop pool. They also won spa of the year, so you know you're in good hands. Abstract Hotel's in-house award-winning Sa-Ni Spa offers affordable treatments in the city's heart. Devoted to holistic healing and wellness, Sa-Ni Spa incorporates ancient techniques and traditional aromatherapy throughout its offerings. Our top pick? Deep Sleep Therapy. A signature massage that calms your nervous system, inducing the most peaceful sleep you've ever had. While an escape to Auckland can bring a world of calm, a visit to East Day Spa at the Grand by Sky City will deepen your relaxation even further. Promising an oasis of healing with a no-phone policy so you can switch off from the world, East Day Spa boasts 11 treatment rooms — including four double suites, zen heat experiences, and a relaxation atrium. What To Do When You Feel Like… You're Overstimulated and Need To Zen One of the best antidotes to burnout? Immersing yourself in Mother Nature or moving your body — combining the two is even better. And you're certainly spoiled for choice in Auckland. Craving zen? Roll out a yoga mat in one of the coolest settings: Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. Immerse yourself in the calming, meditative practice of Hatha yoga while surrounded by magnificent, historic artworks and sculptures. Classes run for an hour every Sunday and Tuesday evening. If you'd rather be outdoors, swap the mat for a picnic rug among beautiful plants and lush gardens. Wander through Auckland Domain's impressive Wintergarden—an ever-changing trove of rare plants, including the Amorphophallus titanum (corpse flower) — and follow a trail of captivating outdoor sculptures. Alternatively, hop over to the city's southern side and explore Auckland's Botanic Gardens filled with aromatic flowers and a picturesque lake. It's an idyllic slice of stillness in Auckland. The best part? It's free. Speaking of picturesque, Waiheke Island offers you a hike for every mood, whether after a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek. If you're eager to take it easy and slow, we recommend the Whakanewha Loop. The two-hour, grade four hike is through Nikau forest and native bush with cascades along the way. But, if you're up for something that's a little more challenging, set out on the Mokemoke Pā headland walk — a two-hour, grade seven walking loop that hugs Waiheke's stunning coastline. What To Do When You Feel Like… A Fancy Snack Auckland's vibrant food scene offers plenty of gourmet bites, share-worthy small plates, and indulgent treats perfect for a snack-filled day of exploring. If you're in the mood for a taste of Italy, head to pocket-sized Pici, where its signature cacio e pepe pasta is a must-try. For a twist on Mediterranean classics, Lebanese favourite Gemmayze Street serves up heavenly homemade hummus, which you can even take home to keep the flavour lingering. For high-brow fancy snacks, look no further than Bar Magda. Here, Filipino-inspired plates like tuna on toast with mayo, anchovy, and flying fish caviar bring a refreshing take on bar snacks. Alternatively, visit local favourite Atelier, where French-style tapas and freshly shucked oysters await, alongside a curated selection of local and international cheeses — or, if you're on the hunt for incredible vegetarian bites, swing by Hatted restaurant Forest in Mount Eden. Think small plates like seaweed-dusted fries with toasted chilli goop and crunchy crudités dunked in creamy garlic pine nut dip. If you're near the CBD, Auckland's snack scene has you covered. Darling On Drake offers a sprawling terrace where you can sample saucy prawn rolls or short rib nuggets with mustard mayo. For something sweet, Giapo is a must-visit. Known for its world-famous hokey pokey ice cream, it isn't your average ice creamery. Its inventive flavours — like velvet cake with cream cheese or pumpkin seed praline are as much of an experience as they are a treat. Craving luxury? Miann Chocolate Factory is a dream dessert boutique. From fairytale-like mousse mushroom cakes to imaginative tiramisu treats, each dessert is meticulously detailed and (almost) too beautiful to eat. What To Do When You Feel Like… Learning Something New Auckland is the perfect destination for those who crave fresh experiences and the thrill of learning something new. Whether you're exploring your creative side or honing a new skill, the city offers plenty of opportunities to expand your horizons. Get your green thumb wagging at Babylon, Auckland's beloved plant store. Learn how to create a Japanese Kokedama or build a vibrant terrarium. Plus, for the most heinous indoor plant killers, Babylon offers courses on how to nurture your own plant babies. If you're in the mood to get your hands dirty, The Clay Centre in Mt Wellington runs creative workshops, including its popular "wheel and wine" class. It's a great way to unwind while learning the art of pottery. For a quieter but equally rewarding experience, try its Saturday morning coffee-and-clay sessions. To refine your artistic skills, Studio One Toi Tū in Grey Lynn offers a variety of classes, from life drawing to knotting macramé bracelets. They even offer specialised workshops like traditional Māori jewellery carving. Don't forget to check out one of the exhibitions at the studio, which showcases local and international talent. If you're looking for something a little more adventurous, why not learn to surf at Muriwai Beach? Set against dramatic dunes and cliffs, the beach is about 40 minutes north-west of Auckland and is an idyllic spot to learn the basics of surfing (or advanced technical skills if you've surfed for years). And don't worry about the cold — winter wetsuits are included, so you can stay warm while soaking up the stunning coastal views. Just a short flight away, Auckland is the perfect long weekend destination for travellers seeking urban energy and unexpected natural gems. Find out more here. By Jacque Kennedy
It probably shouldn't come as a surprise that there's a particularly special place to buy antiques in the harbourside community of Double Bay. You'll find Maison et Jardin buried within the stylish boutiques of Transvaal Avenue. This is where you can score one-off furniture and homewares which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The business is led by Lauren Landsman, who travels extensively each year across France, Belgium and the Netherlands to hand-select items. Expect to uncover a wealth of French-style mirrors, crafted cabinets, copper pots and plenty of items to make your home more hygge.
With so many fantastic places to visit around the world, it's often hard to decide where to possibly go. A covetable experience wherever you go, is to see something so breathtakingly beautiful, it almost feels surreal. As hard as you may try, no description is quite adequate and you lock this memory away for times when you desire a happy moment and can revel in the images in your mind. With so many websites and travel books available today, it's hard to know where to start looking or whose opinion to take as gospel. We listen to total strangers on TripAdvisor, Thorn Tree and Expedia, look at friend's photos on Facebook (with smart phones we can see it at almost the same time they do), use the good old Lonely Planet, or go for guides that are catered to the stylish individual, like Wallpaper. There is one authority that doesn't follow the fashion or try to sell you heavy tomes. The very first authority on beauty and travel I ever heard about, when I was still a litte'un at school, and the ultimate title to wear - the Miss World of destinations if you will - is the Seven Wonders of the World, or the New7Wonders as it's called on the web. The process of creating the most recent list has been going on since 2007, during which time anyone could suggest sites they thought were natural wonders. Then the choices were voted on, and more than a million were tallied to cut the list of more than 440 contenders in over 220 countries to a shortlist of 77. It was then cut to 28 by a panel of experts. The provisional list of the final seven is below. Check them out and dream of holidays until the final results are announced early in 2012. Halong Bay, Vietnam Iguazu Falls, Argentina Jeju Island, South Korea Komodo, Indonesia Puerto Princesa Underground River, Philippines The Amazon rainforest Table Mountain, South Africa
Travelling across Japan via train is a bucket list experience: everyone wants to do it, and for good reason. There's nothing like taking in the country via locomotive, but if you haven't hit their railways yet, you might want to update your plans. You might want to start saving too. The Train Suite Shiki-shima is the type of train that would make all other vehicles quiver with jealousy if we were living in a certain popular children's cartoon series or a car-focused Pixar franchise. Forget whatever glamorous locomotive setups you've seen in old movies — they've got nothing on this. It was designed by man also responsible for luxury cars such as the Ferrari Enzo, the Porsche AG and the Maserati Quattroporte, after all. Venturing between Tokyo and Hokkaido, the ten-car train can accommodate 24 passengers in its 17 opulent suites, with some rooms decked out with baths and fireplaces. Other features include front and rear glass-walled observatory cars, a lounge with a piano, and a dining room. In the latter, the seasonal ingredients cooked up — from a menu by a Michelin-starred chef — change according to the region the train is passing through. In good news, the Shiki-shima is has been riding the rails since May 1, with one-, two- and three-night journeys available. In not-so-good news, due to demand, applications have already closed for trips up until March 2018. When bookings are accepted again, they'll set you back between 450,000 and 1,050,000 yen — or between AU$5,500 and $13,000 — but doesn't it just look and sound worth it? Via Travel and Leisure. Images: Train Suite Shiki-shima
If your seaside memories are painted with velvet pine trees, striped umbrellas and sand yellowed with rose-tinted glasses, look no further than Avoca for your next foray out of the city. Despite becoming a hot spot for tourists chasing great coffee, food, surf and adventure, it's managed to keep a firm hold on that laidback, they-all-must-be-locals ambience by not becoming overdeveloped. Situated just 95km north of the Sydney CBD, Avoca makes a perfect day trip or weekend away, even when a winter wind blows across the beach. Just pull your cable knit around you, stare meaningfully into the sea and then snuggle into the area's characterful cafes, eateries and shops. SEE AND DO Your first priority in Avoca is obviously to visit the beach — a 1km stretch of golden sand protected by headlands and dotted with beach chairs, umbrellas and surfboards. It's a great swimming beach, popular with families, and has patrol flags at each end and a safe shallow kiddie pool by the Avoca Beach Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC). Scramble around the rocks at the south head to find a platform of stunning rock pools and anglers taking advantage of the abundant sea below. Avoca is known for its surf and has great waves for beginners and advanced surfers. The Central Coast Surf School offers group and private lessons as well as two-day courses for all ages. Old hands can rent a board at Three Points Surf on Avoca Drive. If paddle boarding or paddle boating is more your speed, head to Avoca Lake beach behind the Avoca shopping village (or follow the lake's inlet from the centre of the beach), where you can hire a board from Aquafun for just $4, as well as kayaks, canoes and boats. Visiting scuba divers of all levels can explore the ex-HMAS Adelaide just 1.8 kilometres off Avoca Beach. The naval warship was sunk in 2011 creating an artificial reef, now teaming with life. Terrigal Dive run six dives a day to the site on weekends, as well as a number of other dives. Those who want to get off the beaten track should take a short drive down the coast to Bouddi National Park. The 8 kilometre coastal walk is broken into bite-sized sections with bays and spectacular whale-watching lookouts. The beach of Maitland Bay is the gem of the journey and can be accessed via the first leg of the costal track from Putty Beach (3km) or a (steep!) paved track from the car park (1.5km). For a change of pace, wander around the Avoca village on Avoca Drive and indulge in a spot of shopping at Avoca Beach Antiques. The 31-year-old store has the Central Coast's largest collection of antique jewellery, sure to see you part with some cold hard ones. Also not to be missed is the adorable Avoca Beach Picture Theatre, located behind the SLSC on Avoca Drive. The fourth-generation family business, which opened on the Hunter family's front garden in 1948, was named in the BBC's Top 20 Cinemas Of The World in 2014 and has also won awards for its highly curated programming. If the weather is coaxing you to stay outdoors, at least pop in to see the antique decor inside. EAT AND DRINK In the last two years, Avoca has bucked the beach-town trend of revolving seasonal eateries and has developed a stable foodie scene of its own. For the best coffee in town, visit Becker & Co. owned by Dale Hunter, formerly of Bird & Bear Boathouse in Elizabeth Bay. Have your day brightened by the typographic inspirations on the walls while you chow down on a bacon and egg breakfast slider with chilli jam. Oomph Cafe & Food Store, the little sister to popular Oomph Cafe & Foodstore in East Gosford, has an extensive menu featuring specialty products from their store. Their gourmet burgers, the best in town, will force you back into the water to wash the juice from your elbows. If raw, organic or vegan is your jam, see the super-friendly staff at Wise Food Cafe. They have a full breakfast and lunch menu, but their array of sweet health treats is second to none in town. Like Minds, lakeside and slightly back from main drag, is another popular hang with a creative-space vibe. Sit outside with strangers on a garden table or admire the work of local artists on the walls inside, also available for purchase. The best dinner in town goes to Bombini, a modern Italian fine dining restaurant with a seasonal four-course menu of sustainable and local produce- some from it's own 2-acre kitchen garden. Those just after a place to drink can settle into a veranda booth with their choice of French, Italian and Australian wines and cocktails. They also have lunch and brunch on weekends and a pantry store selling their fresh bread baked daily. For a quiet night, dine in or takeaway from All Malay Malaysian Restaurant. Don't be surprised by its popularity night after night; the beef rendang and salt and pepper soft shell crab are exceptional. It's BYO, so pick up a drop from the BWS across the road on your way. If you can't move from the beach, not even for food, never mind. The Surf Life Saving Club kiosk serves Allpress Espresso, takeaway meals and the ever important ice-block. For beachside fish and chips head to Avoca Beach Seafoods. It's BYO and open till 8pm. When it's time for an afternoon beverage, check out Mojito Joe's above the Avoca Sands Cafe. It's known for its punchy rum-based cocktails and Pacific island-inspired share dishes. The Avoca Beach Hotel is the pub of choice, with live music every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. It's also the best spot in town to watch the footy. Any footy. Words and images by Annabel Campbell.
Billed as an “inter-faith minibus tour (with a sonic and visual dreamscape)”, The Calling will take you on a tour of religious architecture and sacred music in Western Sydney. Created for the Sydney Festival by the always cool Information and Cultural Exchange (ICE), The Calling is a different and experimental way to visit new places and cultures — via the aural journey in your ears and the real interactions waiting at each stop. You'll have to be an early riser, however. Beginning at the crack of dawn with the Adhan (the Islamic call to prayer), you will explore selected mosques, temples and churches throughout Auburn, Granville and Parramatta. Also thrown into the mix is a delish traditional Lebanese breakfast. "This is not an anthropological or theatrical spectacle," says ICE executive director and project curator John Kirkman. "Rather, it is a discreet opportunity to move between and within the built and aural realities and ritual of worship and community faith."
In November 2018, the owners of The World Bar announced that the venue would be abruptly closing its doors after 18 years. The Kings Cross institution had, during its long tenure, hosted over 4000 DJs and 1000 bands, poured thousands of teapots and was the late-night go-to for many party fiends and Sydney music lovers. The news of its closure was met by an outpouring of emotion by Sydneysiders, musicians and local businesses, with owner Steve Ward describing the closure as "heartbreaking stuff". But the venue hasn't called last drinks just yet. This morning it was announced that it will be home to a new live music spot, with Cali Club opening its doors on Wednesday, December 12. New owners Dane Gorrel and Matt Weir jumped at the opportunity to revive the heritage-listed site, saying there's a serious need for a live music venue and nightclub in Sydney — especially in Kings Cross. "We need to preserve our nightclub institutions," Gorrel said today. "They have a tremendous impact on Sydney's culture, and once they go, it's incredibly hard for them to return." Many Aussie musicians like Flume, DZ Deathrays and Gang of Youths played early gigs at World Bar, including Weir himself, who scored one of his first DJ residencies at the venue. Both Weir and Gorrel have been involved in the Sydney music scene since, running bars and club nights and, most recently, relaunching neighbouring late-night party institution Club 77. Needless to say, live music will be central to Cali Club's offering. The program is set to be quite varied, with Gorrel telling Concrete Playground that the team is "hoping to book as many live acts as possible". As well as reinstating popular Wednesday club night The Wall (which will return for the club's opening night), they're launching a new Saturday night event with Western Sydney rap duo Cult Shotta and will host everything from acoustic gigs to live electronica. Those who like to party late into the evening (and into the wee hours of the morning) will be able to scratch that itch at Cali Club, too, with the venue opening till 4am from Wednesday through Saturday. There are also plans to launch Sundays in the New Year. For the moment, the space will look the same — Gorrel and Weir want to spend a couple of months getting a feel for it, and its patrons, before giving it a makeover. When ready, they've recruited Sydney designer Josh Clapp of Steel and Stitch, who's behind Lobo Plantation, Chula, and the pair's Castlecrag restaurant Apera to give the venue a "cosmetic facelift". And the space will be scoring a fancy new sound system courtesy of Prague's Kv2 Audio, too. One thing that will be missing from the new venue is teapots. "We can't have teapots as they're trademarked by The World Bar," says Gorrel. "But we're going to be doing something different." Stay tuned. Find Cali Club at 24 Bayswater Road, Potts Point from Wednesday, December 12. It will open from 3pm–4am, Wednesday through Saturday. Image: Joe Cheng.
A film festival dedicated to American films? Bear with us here. Sure, Hollywood pumps out most of the movies that reach our screens, but don't expect to see superheroes battling for supremacy, transforming robotic cars saving the world or an endless parade of sequels at Essential Independents: American Cinema, Now. Instead, the brand new event is dedicated to the types of US flicks that don't usually make it to our shores. Here, smaller titles and character-driven fare share the spotlight with experimental efforts, intriguing docos and the kind of classics that you won't find on every retro lineup. Think revisionist westerns featuring gun-slinging gals and explorations of important American artists, plus the chance to see early work by the Coen brothers, Kathryn Bigelow, Richard Linklater and Sofia Coppola in a cinema. It's a real celebration of the other side of American filmmaking, and the source of the usual festival dilemma: choosing what to see. If you're having a tough time picking the best of the bunch, we're here to help. Here's our five top films you won't want to miss. THE FITS Fleet footwork might feature prominently, but The Fits isn't just another dance movie. And, while it chronicles an 11-year-old girl's attempt to find her way in the world, it isn't the usual coming-of-age effort either. Instead, the striking debut from emerging talent Anna Rose Holmer blends both — as well as an intimate look at housing estate living, an understanding of the struggles of being a tomboy approaching womanhood, and an enigmatic mystery — into one unique package. If the sensitive story at the centre of the film doesn't win you over, then Holmer's fluid yet fresh style of filmmaking will. THE KEEPING ROOM Since first coming into prominence in low-key sci-fi effort Another Earth, Brit Marling has proven one of the American indie scene's most intriguing figures. Audiences either love her or don't quite know what to make of her — but whether she's co-writing and starring in Sound of My Voice and The East, or featuring in I, Origins, she's always interesting. The Keeping Room provides her latest fascinating role, this time pairing up with Pitch Perfect 2's Hailee Steinfeld and rising star Muna Otaru. Together, they explore the plight of women left behind during the American civil war, and offer up a female-centric take on one of the most masculine of movie genres. (T)ERROR True crime fans, rejoice. And then prepare to be thrilled, shocked and even a little horrified. (T)ERROR is the first documentary to thrust audiences right into the thick of the action, with filmmakers Lyric R. Cabral and David Felix Sutcliffe on the ground with the FBI during an active counterterrorism operation. Yes, it's as tense as it sounds — but it is also equally revelatory. The informant at the centre doesn't just let viewers in on secret phone calls and meetings, but exposes the murky procedures followed and questionable decisions made in the name of security. SIXTY SIX Making an animated movie is a massive task; however it doesn't normally take 13 years. But that's how long Lewis Klahr spent crafting Sixty Six — and evidence of his hard work is obvious in every image. Using bits and pieces from '50s and '60s comic books, advertising and pulp novels to tell stories steeped in Greek mythology, the end result looks like an art film in every sense of the word. Unravelling over 12 episodes, it's a true collage of sound and vision, a portrait of a time period and a bit of a road trip. It's the kind of experimental feature that really doesn't come around very often. RIVER OF GRASS Before Kelly Reichardt explored the companionship only a pet can bring in Wendy and Lucy, delved into the western genre in Meek's Cutoff and contemplated eco-activism in Night Moves — and brought Michelle Williams, Laura Dern and Kristen Stewart together for her recent Sundance hit Certain Women, too — she spun a story of social isolation and disconnection in the Florida suburbs. More than two decades later, her debut feature River of Glass has been gloriously restored for all the world to see. If you only see one retrospective title at this year's festival, make it this one. Essential Independents: American Cinema, Now runs from May 17 to June 8, and will visit Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Adelaide. For the full program, visit the festival website.
Gigs and shows are well and truly back, and a series of affordable gigs is bringing a collection of beloved local acts to concert venues for just $10. The Live At Last Tour was unveiled by Jack Daniel's and Secret Sounds last year as a way of placing fan-favourite bands back on stages during the pandemic, offering free gigs in intimate venues around the country like Frankie's Pizza and The Triffid. Now, it's back, taking to larger venues this time in order to raise money for Support Act. This year's iteration of the tour will see Triple J and festival circuit favourites play on stage for the very affordable price of $10. The bands in question are Pond, San Cisco, Ruby Fields and Psychedelic Porn Crumpets — each of which will take to one city on the tour. You can catch Pond in the Sunshine Coast on Tuesday, April 12; Psychedelic Porn Crumpets in Sydney on Thursday, April 21; San Cisco in Brisbane on Sunday, April 24; and Ruby Fields in Melbourne on Thursday, April 28. All the acts on the lineup will be joined by yet-to-be announced special guests. Tickets to the gigs are on sale now, and with the $10 price tag, they're sure to be snatched up quickly. If you want to head along you can find all the venues and ticketing information on Secret Sounds' website. Best of all, the whole thing is supporting a good cause. Support Act has been a massive driving force of positivity in the music industry over the last two years. The not-for-profit assists musicians through tough times, whether that be financially or personally, by providing crisis relief grants, mental health workshops, online resources and funeral assistance among a host of other things to people in the music industry. [caption id="attachment_814499" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pond, Matsu[/caption] LIVE AT LAST TOUR DATES Pond — Tuesday, April 22 at SolBar, Sunshine Coast Psychedelic Porn Crumpets — Thursday, April 21 at Factory Theatre, Sydney San Cisco — Sunday, April 24 at Fortitude Music Hall Ruby Fields — Sunday, April 24 at The Espy, Melbourne Live At Last is set to kick off on Tuesday, April 12. Tickets are on sale now via the Secret Sounds website. Top image: Vincent Shaw
Instragram has launched their first official account dedicated to music and musicians. The new, internally-run @music account will post on a variety of music-related content, and feature profiles of emerging and established musicians from all around the world. The move marks an interesting new direction for the photo-sharing service, which for the first time appears to be actively cultivating a community based on the specific interests of its users. Operated by Instagram music editor Alex Suskind, the newly-minted account will post six times a week, with content divided between a series of designated hashtags. #LocallySourced will shine the spotlight on unsigned acts, #DoubleTrack will cover musician’s interests outside of music, and #15SecondLessons will feature video tutorials on "everything from riffs to drumbeats". Posts so far include brief interviews with social media-fiend DJ Questlove and up-and-coming Japanese rock band Tricot. The account will also feature the work of music photographers, album illustrators, instrument makers and fans. An official music account does seem like a good fit for the service, with many of its most popular accounts belonging to famous musicians. According to a statement by Instagram founder and CEO Kevin Systrom, "For the past four years, we have become the home for artists big and small — a place where people across the musical spectrum come to share stories, reveal their creativity and connect directly with fans." Assuming the account is successful — and 27,000 followers in less than a day suggests that it might be — it could potentially open the door for a whole range of official channels covering things like food, movies, fashion and of course, cat photos. It also seems like a smart way for the service to attract targeted advertising — although according to coverage at TechCrunch, there are currently no plans to include ads in the @music account.
It is very easy, tempting even, to hoist up Samsara as a repeat reminder of how fevered we've grown in our lust for quick-cut edits, elevator-pitch plots and uncomplicated relationships. This latest film by director Ron Fricke and producer Mark Magidson (previously partnered in 1992's Baraka) is a non-verbal meditation on our planet and the billions who share it with us, and while only 99 minutes long, Samsara stares you in the eye for longer than most find comfortable. Casually moonlighting as the name of an exotic scent or clothing range, samsara is Sanskrit for "the ever-turning wheel of life", and it is this motif that led Fricke and Magidson through a five-year shoot in twenty-five countries on five continents. Samsara is the wheel of life, death and rebirth, but it is also the grinding wheels of commercial labour, of fickle trends, and of the literal vehicles that the production crew commandeered in their often gruelling efforts to obtain 70mm footage for a few seconds of screen time. This herculean dedication to cinematography has certainly returned great wonders. Samsara flows from one luscious image to the next, carried by intuitive editing rather than plot, and is supported by an original score from Michael Stearns, Lisa Gerrard and Marcello De Francisci that perpetually slips away from defining the meaning of a scene (while almost always evoking a whiff of patchouli and chai). One of the driving concepts of Samsara are the portraits. These are sustained takes of people staring at the camera, their charged gazes a tribute to the eternal expression found on Tutankhamun's sarcophagus. A simple theme, but one that perfectly captures the sense that we are all occupants of this "mudball spinning in space", as Fricke terms it, no matter how varied our style, home or eye colour. It is interesting to note that these are the obvious moments of stillness — the fluttering lives — while the longer-living landscapes and architecture we inhabit are shown in dynamic time-lapses, as if it is the mudball that is sloughing away faster than our flesh. Perhaps here there is a point of concern about the motivations behind Samsara. Fricke and Magidson are keen for the film to be a guided meditation, "not about right or wrong...[but] about how it is now". Mostly the images and sequences allow viewers to reflect and ruminate on their own thoughts; however, there are certain footage choices throughout Samsara that it is naive to declare free of political weight. A significant section of the film plays witness to the immense production lines, for instance, rendering machines, humans and livestock into commodities at a rate and volume that is staggering to witness. While Fricke and Magidson may not have nailed a manifesto to the projector, there is no denying how charged this footage is in light of our daily dialogues on scarcity and peak economics. Whether or not there is a polemic actually behind its majesty, Samsara is a film that provides a great counterpoint to the usual Boxing Day fare at cinemas. For those who are overfed on the sugar and fat of blockbusters, prepare to cleanse your mind and heart with another kind of richness. https://youtube.com/watch?v=qp967YAAdNk
Who’d have guessed that one of the biggest highlights of Sydney Art Month would require a magnifying glass in order to view it? No larger than a breadbox, Sydney’s Smallest Gallery will showcase works the size of thimbles. The diminutive free gallery is the brainchild of Natalie Cheney and Stephen Clement, and will be housed inside the (regular sized) Nauti Studios in Stanmore. Only one person will be permitted to view the tiny gallery at the time, although it will be populated by several equally minuscule patrons. This event is one of our top ten picks of Art Month. Check out the other nine here.
After selling out of their homemade marshmallows at markets across NSW, Breah Mayer and Joel Twyman decided their sweet and squishy desserts needed a permanent home. So, they opened a bricks and mortar dessert bar in Wyong's historic Chapman Building on the Central Coast. As well as serving up more than 25 different flavours of their famed marshmallows, The Marshmallow Co, as the local couple's dessert bar has been named, also has OTT milkshakes, s'mores, sundaes, ice cream sandwiches made with churro buns, and skillets filled with the likes of cookie and ice cream. Almost all desserts come topped with a marshmallow or marshmallow fluff, too. On the marshmallow lineup, you'll find flavours such as lime and coconut, strawberry and cream, caramel swirl, lemon meringue, Nutella, Oreo, lamington and piña colada. You'll find limited-edition flavours for seasonal events, too, including hot cross bun and candy cane marshmallows. If you can't make it up to the Central Coast store, you can purchase some of the duo's funky flavours online. If you can make it up, you'll also be able to visit some of The Marshmallow Co's Chapman Building neighbours, such as Glee Coffee Roasters, gift shop Scout and Trader and House of Ellery, which sells art supplies and hosts macrame workshops. During the summer months, The Marshmallow Co stays open later and live music nights on Fridays from 5pm, so plan an after-work road trip to eat desserts and listen to tunes on the grass.
Everyone's favourite gaming-themed burger joint 8bit has clocked up four years of life — and what better way to celebrate that little milestone, than with more of the good stuff? This time around, 8bit's taking on an international classic, dishing up its own take on the humble Big Mac. Fittingly dubbed the Big Pac, this one's a tasty tower rocking two beef patties, lettuce, pickles, double American cheese and a special Pac sauce. The burger hits the Darling Square store from Monday, November 5, and is set to stick around for a whole month. It's available solo for $16.50, or matched with your choice of side and drink as part of a Big Pac meal-deal for $20. If you're feeling extra celebratory, you can even add on an 8bit birthday sundae ($8). It's a limited-edition collaboration with Gelato Messina, featuring brioche gelato and raspberry puree, with white chocolate and pink coconut icing.
Sweet news: this spring and summer, your lips can taste like Gelato Messina no matter what you're eating. We can't all devour ice cream all day and night, sadly, but we can all slather our smackers with Messina's Lanolips collaboration — especially now that it comes in a dulce de leche version. Back in 2021, Messina and Lanolips first teamed up on their debut gelato-flavoured balm — a salted coconut and mango sorbet number that, yes, was always going to give you a constant craving for a few scoops. The pair have brought that popular version back in 2022, too, as well as the new dulce de leche balm. We said it a year ago and we'll say it again now: if you start eating more gelato as a result, you'll know why. How do you make a dulce de leche balm? It takes its cues from Messina's signature in-house Argentinean caramelised milk gelato flavour, and was inspired by a gelato-tasting session, naturally. As for the salted coconut and mango sorbet flavour, it still nods to Messina's most popular coconut milk sorbet — a flavour that features Murray River salt and Australian Kensington Pride mango salsa. In balm form, the two Aussie-made products are infused with lanolin from local sheep's wool, as well as coconut oil, vitamin E and natural flavour. You'll find the lip-smacking products in all Messina stores, Messina's online store, at Lanolips' website and at Mecca. And, while they're perfect for that obvious purpose, Messina and and Lanolips also advise that the multi-balms have one hundred other uses. Head to Messina to pick some up today, on Tuesday, September 27 — or buy one from Messina's website — and you'll also nab a free scoop while stocks last. For more information about Gelato Messina's new Lanolips balm — and to buy some — head to the chain's website.
Dining out is back in — and it's back with a vengeance. As we cruise to the mid-way point through this gloriously lockdown-free year, Australia's wining and dining scene is returning to its former glory. And it seems the rest of the world is taking notice, too. The esteemed World's 50 Best Restaurants awards unveiled their annual 51-100 list overnight, with one Aussie restaurant named among them — celebrated chef Andrew McConnell's Melbourne diner, Gimlet at Cavendish House. [caption id="attachment_860200" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ben Moynihan[/caption] The CBD restaurant took out the number 84 spot in the Top 100 longlist, on its World's 50 Best debut. It was in good company, too, ranking alongside a diverse spread of lauded venues from Singapore to São Paulo, and Munich to Marseille. If you're plotting an overseas food holiday, this lineup is well worth a look. The awards' 51-100 list was unveiled at a ceremony in the UK yesterday, with the restaurant world now holding its breath for the Top 50 lineup, set to be announced on the evening of Monday, July 18 (UK time). Just two Aussie restaurants claimed spots in last year's awards, both of them Victorian, with Dan Hunter's Brae placing 57th and Ben Shewry's Ripponlea fine diner Attica coming in at number 97. [caption id="attachment_826376" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jo McGann[/caption] Running annually since 2002, the World's 50 Best awards are chosen by a panel of over 1000 culinary experts, guided by a strict voting procedure. They're now hosted by a different country each year, with Melbourne playing host city back in 2017. To check out the full World's 50 Best Restaurants Top 100 list, see the website. Top Image: Earl Carter
Sydney's newest public art installation is best experienced with mates and a picnic lunch, all while appreciating one of the CBD's best harbour views. Created by acclaimed French-Albanian artist and filmmaker Anri Sala as the 33rd Kaldor Public Art Project in partnership with Art & About Sydney, The Last Resort asks observers to reflect on the landscape from a different perspective. Inviting the audience to relax on Observatory Hill, enjoy a picnic and watch the harbour pass by, the installation is unique to Sydney — it's the first time this artwork has been unveiled, having been created with this very location in mind. Through sculpture and sound, the poetic piece set inside the hill's rotunda features a canopy of 38 snare drums, defying gravity and rhythmically responding to a modified, contemporary version of Mozart's Clarinet Concerto in A Major. The whole experience is created to reflect and bring to life the relationship between the sights, sounds and history of the city's most elevated point. The installation has been set up just in time for daylight savings to kick in and give us a chance to enjoy some rays a bit longer on Observatory Hill. What's more, The Lord Nelson at the bottom of the hill is serving up a special picnic menu for the public art's install. Stop by the iconic Sydney pub before heading up the hill to pack your picnic basket with artichoke salad nicoise or roasted pumpkin with beetroot and goat's cheese, pork and fennel burgers, the hearty ploughman's lunch or one of the other delicious savouries on their exclusive takeaway menu. Don't forget dessert — warm homemade apple pie. Forgot your blanket? Not a problem. Kaldor staff are supplying those at Observatory Hill — for free — too. The Last Resort is a free installation that runs daily from 10am–6pm (Wednesdays until 7.30pm) from October 13 to November 5. Words: Quinn Connors and Jonathan Ford.
A staple of Mosman's main shopping street for years, this family-run florist is well known among the brides and grooms of the area. Even when the store is busy preparing for weddings, the staff are welcoming and helpful, guiding you to pick out seasonal floral bouquets — such as peonies in late winter, tulips in spring and native sprigs all year round. If you find yourself inspired, the store offers a floral design course, so you can learn the tricks of the trade and arrange a bountiful bunch at home.
Since 2019, Netflix's Dead to Me has contemplated endings — starting with a just-widowed woman trying to cope with losing her husband in a hit-and-run incident. Taking a few cues from 2018 film A Simple Favour, the grief-fuelled dark comedy has twisted its way through plenty of chaos from there, including via the unlikely friendship at its centre; however, the fact that everything comes to a conclusion sooner or later has always hung over the show. When it returns for season three on Thursday, November 17, that notion will remain — and Dead to Me itself will wrap up. Back in 2020, after the second season aired, it was revealed that the show would finish after a third and final run. So, get ready for your last swim through its murders, mysteries and cover-ups. The premise, if you missed Dead to Me when it premiered back in 2019: two women meet, become friends despite seemingly having very little in common, and help each other with their daily existence. From there, however, they find themselves immersed in more than a little murky business. Christina Applegate (Bad Moms 2) plays Jen Harding, whose husband has just died, while Linda Cardellini's (Hawkeye) Judy Hale is the positive-thinking free spirit that breezes into her life. They initially cross paths at a grief counselling session, sparking a definite odd-couple situation — which has evolved to feature secrets, lies, complications and cliffhangers galore across the show's two seasons to-date. Season two ended with a big car crash, in fact — and as well as announcing when Dead to Me would return to close out its story, Netflix has just dropped a teaser trailer for season three. Get ready for a glimpse of Jen and Judy in hospital and unhappy about it, as well as a recap of exactly what's brought them to this point. As for where the story will head afterwards, that'll only be revealed when Netflix drops the third season itself. If it's as easy to binge as the first two seasons, you'll know how the show ends quickly. Created by 2 Broke Girls writer Liz Feldman, Dead to Me marked Applegate's first lead TV role since 2011-12 sitcom Up All Night when it debuted. For Cardellini, it saw a return to Netflix after starring on the streaming platform's drama Bloodline — and she also featured in A Simple Favour, too. Check out the first teaser trailer for Dead to Me's third season below: Dead to Me's third season will hit Netflix on Thursday, November 17. Images: Saeed Adyani / Netflix.
Working in Australia's hospitality industry has never been a tougher gig than it is right now. So, why — and how — are bar staff, chefs, publicans and restaurateurs stepping up their game? We're going to find out. Join us on Monday, September 6 at 1pm for Hot Takes & Takeaways, a special virtual event. In partnership with Uber Eats, we're taking a deep dive into the Aussie food scene to find out what it takes to get plates of food on tables (or doorsteps) in 2021. We've enlisted comedian, former Triple J presenter and all-round legend Gen Fricker to host this special lunchtime chat streamed live from Butter in Surry Hills. And she'll be joined by chefs Julian Cincotta (Butter) and Cuong Nguyen (Hello Auntie) for an engaging chat on the highs and the messy lows of working in hospo today. No topic is off-limits — from wild menu hacks to vaccine passports. [caption id="attachment_567132" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Butter Sydney[/caption] Throughout the show, you'll also get to test your foodie knowledge for the chance to score a $25 Uber Eats voucher. Better yet, this virtual lunchtime event is completely free. Simply head to our Facebook event and hit attending to get a reminder just before it kicks off. In the meantime, check out Uber Eats' Enterprise Hub if you'd like to learn more about what restaurants are doing to survive — and thrive — during this tough time. Top image: Kitti Gould
The world's most-famous enigmatic smile is set to beam down on Australia in not one but two locations in 2024, all thanks to the team at Grande Experiences. The Melbourne-based company is the mastermind behind the immersive walkthrough art experiences that've been sweeping the country, both touring them and opening the nation's first permanent digital-only art gallery The Lume. And next year, it's turning its attention to both the Italian Renaissance in general and Leonardo da Vinci specifically — with Mona Lisa featuring prominently in both of its new showcases. Italian Renaissance Alive has already locked in a season on the Gold Coast from March, and will include da Vinci's works. In the same month, The Lume in the Victorian capital will go all-in on the artist and inventor. The site's major 2024 exhibition is Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius, with the gallery is calling its "most ambitious, immersive and breathtaking yet". That's quite the claim for a collection that follows a van Gogh celebration, a focus on Monet and his contemporaries and the current First Nations-centric Connection. It also isn't surprising. Connection now has an end date, and is set to close at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre venue on Sunday, February 4, just over a month before Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius arrives. The Last Supper will also enjoy the spotlight in a big way, because Grande Experiences' whole setup is making iconic, important and stunning works larger than life, surrounding attendees like never before. The Mona Lisa will also link in with the segment of the exhibition that's all about French optical engineer Pascal Cotte, who invented a multispectral camera and has peeled back the artwork's layers using his research. So, get excited about Mona Lisa Revealed, which will include an exact 360-degree replica — the only one in the world — as created thanks to Cotte's 240,000,000-pixel multispectral camera. That said, Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius isn't just about its namesake's well-known works, with the 3000-square-metre multi-sensory gallery also exploring his inspirations and contemporaries. Thanks to the latter, Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius and Italian Renaissance Alive will have more than a little in common. Botticelli's The Birth of Venus, Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling and works by Caravaggio will feature at both. Melbourne will be home an experience that steps through da Vinci's journey, however, including Florence's streets, Venice's canals and Milan — as brought to life via sight, sound, scent, touch and taste. Also among Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius' highlights: 50 of da Vinci's "machine inventions", which will be on loan the Museo Leonardo da Vinci in Rome. Alongside the Mona Lisa, The Last Supper and his anatomical drawings — and more — da Vinci is well-known for his flying machine concepts, with his 15th-century vision of human flight set to score The Lume's attention. This part of the exhibition will hero recreations made in Italy from the artist and inventor's sketches, and also using the materials and techniques he would've at the time. "Leonardo da Vinci's contributions to art, science and innovation are immeasurable and continue to shape our modern world," said Bruce Peterson, Owner and CEO of The Lume Melbourne, announcing Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius. "We aim to provide a unique and immersive experience that not only celebrates the genius of Leonardo but also underscores the relevance of his ideas in the contemporary landscape. As a pioneer in bridging art and technology, The Lume Melbourne is honoured to bring Leonardo's legacy to life in a way that engages, inspires and resonates with audiences of all ages." Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius opens at The Lume, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, 5 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf, Melbourne, from Friday, March 15, 2024 — head to the venue's website for tickets and further information.
It may be hot outside, but it's not quite 'our city in summer' until the Sydney Festival starts up on January 9, bringing with it a tidal wave of performance, music, art and other festivities. Tonight the Sydney Festival has launched its 2014 program, a massive conglomeration of 104 events, featuring 722 artists from 80 companies across 17 countries. Look out for a much bigger festival garden (so big, in fact, it's now the Festival Village) in Hyde Park, the return of music venue Paradiso at Town Hall and everyone's favourite duck, and a version of Stonehenge that you can bounce on. Yes, bounce on. But let's get the bad news out of the way first: crowd favourite Festival First Night has been shrunk down even further than last year's 'Day One', to the point where it's completely disappeared. This has been blamed on NSW state funding cuts, as the escalating event requires a large amount of dedicated resources. While the loss of Festival First Night is a little hard to swallow — especially when Parramatta gets one (the POP Parra Opening Party features public concerts and 'Boxwars', a street parade/brawl in cardboard costumes on January 10) — but you can understand the festival's insistence on there needing to be proper funding for such an undertaking. We say it's a unrivalled street party that for one day makes Sydney feel like a great, open, international city, and we hope it returns in the future. In the meantime, there are many free, public events to occupy ourselves with. Now, on with the show. Performance Sydney Festival is, above all, a means to get the most appealing, innovative and agenda-setting international performing arts works to visit our town. This year there's nothing topping the already-announced spectacle of Dido & Aeneas. This 'underwater opera' starts with a dance in a 7500L water tank and moves on to sumptuous feats of dance, costume, singing, music and stagecraft. But the one-woman La Voix Humaine promises to floor with conversely little. This Dutch production based on the monologue by poet and film director Jean Cocteau features actor Halina Reijn as a woman pleading with her lover down the phone line after a break-up. There are plenty of other acclaimed international theatre works with experimental, thrilling or just plain WTF twists. Bullet Catch (from the UK's The Arches and Rob Drummond), for instance, is about the notoriously dangerous magician's trick that took the life of William Wonder. We hear if you stay till the end, you may have a very direct part to play in the climax. Less unnerving is Othello: The Remix, a charming "ad-rap-tation" by Chicago hip hop outfit the Q Brothers that uses the words of Shakespeare and obliterates the memory of so many terrible modernisations. Also in the mix is Cadavre Exquis, a game of theatrical Exquisite Corpse played by some truly cool international artists; Tim Crouch's underdog tale I, Malvolio (we recommend going on the adults-only late show on January 18); and Pan Pan Theatre's All That Falls, a radio play you take in communally, while on rocking chairs. Of course, it's not festival time without a Spiegeltent somewhere, and this year's is grounded in some solid and frequently sexy circus. Strut & Fret are back with a follow-up to last year's Cantina, Limbo, which takes as its premise an otherworldly party between heaven and hell. There's also a second travelling tent, which belongs to Belgium's Circus Ronaldo, a genuine line of circus performers six generations long. Their La Cucina Dell'Arte is a more family-friendly brand of buffoonery set in a pizza parlour. They're sharing their tent with rowdier late-night act Scotch and Soda, which includes the stylings of the Crusty Suitcase Band. In the non-funny vein of circus arts, look out for Ockham's Razor, a unique blending of philosophy and acrobatics over three acts taking place at Carriageworks. There are also a few really exciting local productions that shouldn't be eclipsed: Black Diggers is a major new work by Tom Wright built on extensive research into the largely untold history of Aboriginal Diggers in WWI. Directed by Wesley Enoch, it's making its world premiere at the festival. Belvoir and post's Oedipus Schmoedipus will be an epic lark, Am I sees choreographer Shaun Parker and composer Nick Wales venture into a new civilisation, My Darling Patricia's The Piper is one to capture the imagination (and abduct some children), and Forklift required several dancers to get heavy machinery licences. Music This year’s Sydney Festival music lineup doesn’t quite have the ‘wow’ factor of former years, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find a tonne of events that underline why the festival makes Sydney such an exciting place to be in January. The headline event is undoubtedly Amanda Palmer, who will be playing 10 solo shows in the intimate surrounds of The Spiegeltent. Palmer has become an object of much debate after her incredible success at crowdfunding her latest album, but whatever you think of that whole deal you cannot deny she is a fascinating performer. Dating right back to The Dresden Dolls, her shows have always been fascinating amalgamations of pop, cabaret, punk, performance and songwriting, and even the Festival organisers can’t tell you exactly what to expect when Palmer plays solo. Big Star’s Third is an absolute cult classic, with bands as diverse as Belle & Sebastian, The Replacements, The Flaming Lips and R.E.M. citing it as an inspiration. Despite (or perhaps because of) the deteriorating mental health of frontman Alex Chilton, and the fact that the band had totally fallen apart between its recording and its release, it is regarded as one of the great records of all time. And you can hear the whole thing in all its broken, twisted beauty when an all-star band including original drummer and sole surviving member of the band, drummer Jody Stephens, Mike Mills (R.E.M.) and Ken Stringfellow (The Posies) take to The Enmore stage for one night only. Kurt Vile has quietly become a cult guitar hero in recent years, bringing together influences from psych to folk to garage to create beautiful, enchanting music. It might not seem like it sometimes – Vile is so laidback he’s almost horizontal – but the man is a virtuoso guitarist and a compelling performer. And he’s playing in two formats at this year’s festival: a solo “special midnight performance” in the Circus Ronaldo Tent, and again with his band, The Violators, at Paradiso and Town Hall. Not to be missed. And that’s not even mentioning Amadou & Mariam’s Eclipse (a “live, multi-sensory experience in pitch darkness telling the amazing story of the blind couple from Mali that includes scents inspired by Mali and their second home Paris pumped into the building”), performances from ex-Battles frontmant Tyondai Braxton, a collaborative performance with Lee Ranaldo (Sonic Youth) and Mike Patton (Faith No More, Mr. Bungle, etc), or dozens of other exciting acts. Even the classical music program is phenomenal. It might not seem like it at first glance, but Sydney Festival is once again putting on the best party of the year. Art Art-wise, the Sydney Festival offerings are incredibly choice. The focus is on large-scale, multimedia and installation-type pieces that pack an impressive visual punch. Christian Boltanski’s mega installation, Chance, on show at Carriageworks (10 January – 23 March), will prove to be a highlight of the program. It will be the first major work ever presented in Australia by the French artist, who is one of the more important figures of the international artworld. The piece will make full use of the architecture and size of Carriageworks and will chart births and deaths across the globe. The award for coolest festival event goes to 100 Million Nights, the collaboration between artist Daniel Boyd and electronic duet Canyons. The musicians have created an original score based on their interpretation of Boyd’s pieces. On 21 January, in the concert hall of the Sydney Opera House, the performance will be staged in front of three large projections of Boyd’s artwork. The show will also include a sight and sound work by former Battles frontman Tyondai Braxton. Hive will blend modular synthesisers, sound design and percussion with custom built “architecturally designed” illuminated platforms. Billed as an “inter-faith minibus tour (with a sonic and visual dreamscape)”, The Calling will take you on a tour of religious architecture and sacred music in Western Sydney. Beginning at the crack of dawn with the Adhan (the Islamic call to prayer), you will explore selected mosques, temples and churches throughout Auburn, Granville and Parramatta. Also thrown into the mix is a delish traditional Lebanese breakfast. Slovakian artist Roman Ondák is teaming up with Kaldor Public Art Projects (the group that brought us 13 Rooms) to present a trio of performative works. The artworld superstar will present Project 28 at Parramatta Town Hall. Swap, explores process of exchange and barter with humour and audience participation. The second work, Measuring the Universe, at first glance looks like hundreds of thousands of black strokes on a white wall. Look closer and you’ll see it’s tiny records of various visitors’ heights and the dates the measurements were taken. The final work, Terrace, will be a brand new work created specially for the Parramatta event. And that bouncy Stonehenge? That's Sacrilege by Jeremy Deller, direct from the 2012 London Olympics cultural program. Frighten off the tiny children and get jumping. Multipacks are available from October 24 at 9am. General tickets are available on October 28 at 9am. For full details see the Sydney Festival website. This year, the festival is offering an interactive, walk-through version of their program before tickets go on sale. A careers-counsellor-like service will help you find the events you most want to see. Take a gander from October 24-27 at Lower Town Hall. By Rima Sabina Aouf, Hugh Robertson and Rebecca Speer.
Located right next to the sands of Narrabeen beach, Cabana Beach Kiosk takes beachfront dining to a whole new level serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner — and uninterrupted ocean views. For breakfast, choose the Italian eggs with feta, cherry tomatoes, avocado and rocket pesto or try the Californian burrito loaded with hash browns, eggs and salsa. On the lunch and dinner menu you'll find smaller sized share plates including bruschetta and mushroom and truffle arancini, as well as larger beachside favourites like tacos, crunchy fish and chips and buckets of fresh prawns. If you stop by on Thursdays to you can nab a burger and beer for $20. As a fully licensed venue, it's available to host and cater your next seaside event including weddings, birthdays, corporate occasions and more. Images: Mel Koutchavlis
When you're relaxing around the house with your pet pooch or cute kitten, you want your four-legged friend to be as comfortable as possible. Yes, all dogs and cats are masters at getting cosy in any given space — boxes, old blankets, your seat on the couch and your bed all included — because that just comes with the territory. But your furry little woofer or meowing companion is certain to dial up the snugness with an item from Big W's new spring pet range. Whether your shar pei would love to relax on a soft faux suede bed, your poodle would absolutely make the most of a pillow bed or your mouser could use a three-level space to scratch and sleep, you'll find it on offer in this new line. It's super-affordable, too, with dog beds starting from $15 and cat beds from $12. More than 400 items are currently available (including various sizes and colours), spanning collars, harnesses and leads, as well as pet clothing, toys and tunnels. The chain's pet line adds further items throughout the year, too — see: its winter collection — because even your doggo's wardrobe or kitty's favourite blanket can change with the seasons. As tends to be the case when it comes to accessories for pets, dogs have a broader range of items to choose from than cats. That said, while felines can be notoriously picky, we're sure your tabby won't notice if its getting some shut-eye on a soft, fluffy bed marketed at canines. Big W's 'Petember' collection is currently available to purchase — including online, with contactless home delivery and pick up available.
