It's already Australia's largest shopping centre by a long shot, and yet Melbourne's Chadstone continues to grow, unveiling plans to incorporate a $130 million luxury hotel. Vicinity Centres, the property group behind the monster retail destination, has announced that work will begin on the MGallery by Sofitel hotel within a matter of months. Once completed, the site will be managed by the country's biggest hotel operator, Accor Hotels. It's no small project either, with the 13-storey hotel set to feature 250 rooms, a 400-capacity ballroom, two restaurants and a bar. With acclaimed Melbourne architects Bates Smart heading up the design, the aim is for this to be Australia's first five-star Green Star-rated hotel. Located close to Chadstone on the Princes Highway, the development will also boast views of the city skyline, and across to the Dandenong Ranges and Port Phillip Bay. According to Vicinity Centres' Executive General Manager of Development Carolyn Viney, the hotel will reap the benefits of Chadstone's annual 23 million visitor count, which is thought to include a huge 350,000 international tourists. "Importantly, the hotel will create new jobs and drive local tourism, further contributing to the economic and social viability of a new CBD hub for the Chadstone-Monash corridor," Viney said. MGallery by Sofitel is expected to open in Chadstone in late 2019.
First, hobbits tuck into breakfast. Then, they enjoy second breakfast. In fact, in both JRR Tolkien's books and the movie adaptations that've brought them to the screen so far, they like their meals frequently and with the smallest of gaps between them. That seems to be an approach that Prime Video is taking to The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, its upcoming Middle-earth series, too — at least when it comes to dropping sneak peeks at the long-awaited show. The Rings of Power seems like it has been in the works forever, because it's now been 21 years since the first of The Lord of the Rings movies had everyone rushing to cinemas, obsessing over hobbits and elves, and saying "precious" too many times — and, it's also been five years since it was initially revealed that a TV series was in the works. The show will drop in September, starting on Friday, September 2, but early glimpses have been as rare as a pacifist orc until this month. Now, in the space of just a fortnight, Prime Video has dropped not just one, not two, but three new trailers. The latest arrived during San Diego Comic-Con, aka the reason that other big fantasy titles such as Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon and game-to-screen adaptation Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves have also released trailers this week — and it's the longest look at The Rings of Power yet. It also provides the most complete overview of the show's storyline, which jumps back into Middle-earth's Second Age, bringing that era from the LOTR realm to the screen for the first time. In past trailers — including the initial sneak peek back in February — gorgeous settings, elves, dwarves, harfoots (aka hobbit ancestors), stormy seas, strange skies, cave trolls, raging fires and orc battles have all popped up. This new trailer pieces together more of the plot around them. The focus: the rise of Sauron, how that gave rise to the rings and the impact across Middle-earth. Also seen in the new sneak peek: more orcs, and even a balrog. The Rings of Power features a young Galadriel (Morfydd Clark, Saint Maud) and a young Elrond (Robert Aramayo, The King's Man), too — and, this time, New Zealand's natural splendours stand in for the Elven realms of Lindon and Eregion, the Dwarven realm Khazad-dûm, the Southlands, the Northernmost Wastes, the Sundering Seas and the island kingdom of Númenór. Amazon first announced the show back in 2017, gave it the official go-ahead in mid-2018 and set its premiere date back in 2021. In-between, it confirmed that it wouldn't just remake Peter Jackson's movies. Rather, as per the show's official synopsis, it follows "the heroic legends of the fabled Second Age of Middle-earth's history," with the action set thousands of years before the novels and movies we've all read and watched. If you're a little rusty on your LOTR lore, the Second Age lasted for 3441 years, and saw the initial rise and fall of Sauron, as well as a spate of wars over the coveted rings. Elves feature prominently, and there's plenty to cover, even if Tolkien's works didn't spend that much time on the period — largely outlining the main events in an appendix to the popular trilogy. The series will "take viewers back to an era in which great powers were forged, kingdoms rose to glory and fell to ruin, unlikely heroes were tested, hope hung by the finest of threads, and the greatest villain that ever flowed from Tolkien's pen threatened to cover all the world in darkness," the synopsis continues. "Beginning in a time of relative peace, the series follows an ensemble cast of characters, both familiar and new, as they confront the long-feared re-emergence of evil to Middle-earth. From the darkest depths of the Misty Mountains, to the majestic forests of the elf-capital of Lindon, to the breathtaking island kingdom of Númenor, to the furthest reaches of the map, these kingdoms and characters will carve out legacies that live on long after they are gone," it also advises. That's a hefty tale to tell, and The Rings of Power has amassed a hefty cast to tell it — and some impressive talent behind the scenes. Among the other actors traversing Middle-earth are Ismael Cruz Córdova (The Undoing) as Arondir, Nazanin Boniadi (Bombshell) as Bronwyn, Owain Arthur (A Confession) as Prince Durin IV, Charlie Vickers (Palm Beach) as Halbrand and Sophia Nomvete (The Tempest) as Princess Disa. There's also Tom Budge (Judy & Punch), Joseph Mawle (Game of Thrones), Cynthia Addai-Robinson (The Accountant), Maxim Baldry (Years and Years), Peter Mullan (Westworld), Benjamin Walker (The Underground Railroad) and comedian Lenny Henry. And, the series is being overseen by showrunners and executive producers JD Payne and Patrick McKay, while filmmaker JA Bayona (A Monster Calls, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom) directs the first two episodes. Check out the latest The Rings of Power trailer below: The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power will be available to stream via Prime Video from Friday, September 2, 2022. Images: Matt Grace / Ben Rothstein.
A Bondi institution for more than two decades, the Beach Road Hotel is one of the only venues the eastern suburbs for free live music, with bands blowing the roof off their bandroom most nights of the week — they get some pretty great acts, and they're almost always free. On the weekend you'll find the front bar packed with enthusiastic sports fans watching their game of choice on one of several screens, while outdoors you'll discover the venue's enormous, sun-soaked beer garden. The latter has long been a preferred destination of locals and backpackers looking to enjoy a few bevs in the sunshine — and with more than 20 different beers available by the bottle, plus a recently refurbished cocktail bar, you shouldn't have any trouble finding something decent to drink. If you're hungry, they've got a rock solid menu and their daily specials include all your typical pub favourites, including tacos, cheeseburgers and, of course, the humble parma.
Young Adult tells the story of Mavis Gary (Charlize Theron), a teen author and recent divorcee who lives in a spacious apartment in Minneapolis. Tired of spending alcohol-soaked nights alone, she decides to venture back to her hometown of Mercury in an attempt to rekindle a romance with her high-school sweetheart, Buddy (Patrick Wilson). However, Buddy is recently married and has recently become a father. Always determined and slightly sinister, Mavis develops a plot to break up Buddy's marriage and further her own love interests. Along the way she manages to form an unusual bond with a former classmate (Patton Oswalt), who is also keen on reliving his earlier teenage years. Young Adult is a romantic comedy with an unusual twist, exploring the concept of forbidden love and the extreme lengths at which we go to recapture happiness. Although we may see Mavis as a villain, we identify with her sense of nostalgia and desperation. What results is a hilarious insight into human nature and our adaption to change and age. The film marks the reuniting of director Jason Reitman and screenwriter Diablo Cody, who previously collaborated on the Academy Award-winning Juno. To win one of twenty double passes to see Young Adult, just make sure you are subscribed to Concrete Playground then email your name and postal address through to hello@concreteplayground.com.au
We've teamed up with Motel Molly to offer an exclusive rate via Concrete Playground Trips. Sign up for free to get 10–20% off room rates. Book now from AUD $313. Set your OOO and escape to Motel Molly in Mollymook, where you can spend your days soaking in the sunshine by the pool, on the beach or at a golf course between excursions to nearby wineries and top-notch restaurants. Here are a few of the features that make it worthy addition to our collection of Stays of the Week. The converted motel brings retro coastal vibes with Moroccan-inspired decor, Mediterranean tiling and pastel pops of colour. Choose from seven different room types — the Oceanside Garden Suite has an outdoor patio and is only a two-minute walk to Mollymook Beach, while the Spa Suite boasts an in-room sunken bath. There are also one, two and three-bedroom apartments with a kitchenette available for bigger groups and families. Each room comes with luxe Le Labo toiletries, a bluetooth speaker and smart TV with complimentary Netflix access. There are surfboards and bicycles available to rent, as well as free onsite parking. After a dip in the pool, you're welcome to cook up a feast on the communal barbecue and enjoy a meal al fresco in the outdoor cabana. If you can tear yourself away from the facilities, you'll find that the boutique hotel is conveniently located only a block from Mollymook Beach and within walking distance to Mollymook Golf Club. Local towns Ulladulla, Narrawallee and Milton are a five-minute drive away, while epicurean experiences at the likes of Rick Stein at Bannisters, Hayden's Pies, GWYLO or Cupitt's Estate are also close by. If you're after a boutique stay that offers charm, style and carefully considered detail, get booking now.
One month. Two countries. 32 teams. A single, shining, much-coveted, hard-contested trophy. They're the basic numbers behind the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, which is being played across Australia and New Zealand from mid-July to mid-August. Football fans — and no, we don't mean AFL, NRL, rugby union or gridiron devotees — this is your time to shine. Here are a few other pivotal figures: two nights, one hotel suite, and you and three mates. And some more: one Aussie soccer squad, a world-first place to stay and one pivotal match. Throw in one football star, too, and you have everything you need for the ultimate Matildas-themed staycation (for Sydneysiders) or vacation (if you hail from beyond the Harbour City). To celebrate the FIFA Women's World Cup heading Down Under, The Star Grand Hotel Sydney is giving its two-storey penthouse a Matildas-worshipping makeover for a couple of nights, and just for a few guests. As part of a partnership with Destination NSW, it's decking out the place in green and gold — what else? — for you and a a trio of your soccer-loving besties to call home from Wednesday, July 19–Friday, July 21. The timing coincides with Australia playing the Republic of Ireland on Thursday, July 20, with tickets and transfers to the game included in your stay. The one big catch: you'll need to win this football fanatic's dream of a stay in a game of skill, by explaining why Sydney is the best place on the planet to see Australia's women's team compete for the cup, with entries open until 9pm AEST on Wednesday, July 12. If you're the lucky recipient, you'll score that curated suite that pays homage to Sam Kerr and her teammates, which comes decked out with a four-metre-long Matildas scarf, various football ornaments, books about the team's history, a staircase adorned with football quotes, and framed photos of past and present Matildas legends. Autographed jerseys also feature, and international trophies — yes, real ones — already won by the squad, such as the AFC Women's Asian Cup, Cup of Nations and the Tournament of Nations. And, there's a foosball table for you and your crew to get playing yourself. Michelle Heyman will also pop up to meet and greet you, and chat about football, the FIFA Women's World Cup and a career that spanned becoming the A-League Women's top goal scorer. "This is the ultimate experience for any football fan! Not only do you get to stay in this incredible football suite, you get to fully immerse yourself in the Matildas hype ahead of their first match on home soil. You even get tickets to the Matildas soldout opening game, so overall it's a money can't buy experience and an incredible way to get behind the Matildas and celebrate women's sport here in Sydney," said Heyman. You'll also take home a heap of Matildas merchandise, and get a pre-game party playlist curated by Nina Las Vegas. Live outside of Sydney? Domestic flights are included, too, and you might be extra keen on the harbour and Harbour Bridge views from the penthouse. Now that's how you kick off the World Cup in style — and cheer on the Matildas to hopefully make football history. Entries to stay at the Matildas Fan Suite are open until 9pm AEST on Wednesday, July 12, for a two-night stay from Wednesday, July 19–Friday, July 21 — head to The Star Grand Hotel website for further details. The FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 runs from Thursday, July 20–Sunday, August 20 across Australia and New Zealand, with tickets available from the FIFA website. Images: Scott Ehler. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
The Rocks is a historic Sydney precinct, home to some of the best bars, oldest heritage buildings, cutest boutique shopfronts and now, a recently-refreshed weekend activity. You might be familiar with it: The Rocks Markets, a local cornerstone that brings together artisanal goods and their makers onto a bustling street for wanderers to delight in en masse. If you've ever been part of that crowd or aspire to be soon, you'll be excited to hear that the market has recently had a facelift and is coming back strong to invite your patronage and delight your senses. Head on down to the harbourside spot for the opening weekend on Saturday, April 15 and Sunday, April 16 — or any Saturday and Sunday after that. What to expect? You can look forward to fruit-topped baked pastries; fresh, cheesy woodfired pizza; European bites aplenty — like paella, pastel de nata (from Tuga Pastries, pictured above) and lokma — and desserts galore. There's something for everyone on the drinks front; think coffee, juice, kombucha, lemonade and everything in between. Beyond the flavour, you can peruse the works of local artists and photographers, inject style to your life with eclectic homewares and shop around for a standout new 'fit for the coming season. Should you need a break from browsing, find a spot on the supplied picnic rugs in the shade of the Harbour Bridge and soak up the rotating roster of live music (all up-and-coming local artists, of course). And for something enriching, head to one of the ever-changing 'how to' workshops, which will have you learning from market stallholders in interactive sessions. The launch weekend includes sessions with Leather Trading Co, Emilio Frank Design, Jonima Flowers and Store Tresor. And as if you weren't spoiled for choice already, Sunday visitors will also see free yoga classes available in Dawes Point Park at 9.30am. The Rocks Markets relaunch on the weekend of Saturday, April 15 and Sunday, April 16. Then, will run every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm. For more information on the vendors, visit the website.
While New South Wales started easing out of lockdown a few months back, life definitely hasn't returned to pre-COVID-19 normality. Slowly, however, more and more restrictions are continuing to relax — including, as just announced today, Tuesday, October 13, current caps on outdoor venues and events. As revealed by NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, from Friday, October 16, restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs and clubs will be able to adopt the one-person-per-two-square-metre rule outside, but only if the business has an electronic QR code to track patrons. Indoor areas and venues will remain at the present level, which is one person per four square metres. In terms of events, outdoor music performances will be able to have up to 500 people in attendance, all seated, in a boost for live gigs. These concerts will still need to adhere to the one-person-per-four-square-metre rule — and each event will need to have an organiser, and a COVID-safe plan in place. That 500-person limit includes both the audience and the performers. [caption id="attachment_762529" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Trent van der Jagt[/caption] Commenting on the changes, NSW Minister for Health and Medical Research Brad Hazzard advised that the plan is to "bring back life to New South Wales" — and that more restrictions will be eased in the future. He noted, though, that any additional steps "must be done in a COVID-safe way". The news comes just a couple of weeks after NSW also changed patron caps at indoor arts venues, such as theatres, cinemas and concert venues, up to 50-percent capacity to a maximum of 1000 tickets. And, prior to that, the state announced that its major stadiums could also host 50-percent capacity crowds, but only for major outdoor events, a move that came into effect on October 2 to coincide with the NRL finals season. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in NSW, head to the NSW Health website. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. Top image: Trent van der Jagt.
When SBS's new free-to-air 24-hour World Movies channel arrives in July, it'll boast plenty of reasons to get cosy on your couch, ignore the world and settle in for your own stay-at-home film festival. In fact, you might want to cancel your weekend daytime plans for the month — because you'll be spending every Saturday and Sunday watching a non-stop Studio Ghibli marathon. From 6am–7.30pm each weekend during July, the new channel will work its way through a heap of the studio's beloved flicks, including Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle, Kiki's Delivery Service, Ponyo, Laputa: Castle in the Sky, The Secret World of Arrietty, Tales From Earthsea, The Cat Returns, The Castle of Cagliostro, From Up on Poppy Hill, The Wind Rises and When Marnie Was There. If that's not enough delightful Japanese animation for you, a couple of other films will be thrown into the mix — such as The Red Turtle, a gorgeous Ghibli co-production directed by Dutch animator Michaël Dudok de Wit; the lively Mary and the Witch's Flower, which was made by animators who previously worked at Studio Ghibli; and The Boy and The Beast and Summer Wars, which both hail from rightfully acclaimed filmmaker Mamoru Hosoda. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Wf57f5F09c SBS has also revealed what else will be screening on World Movies throughout its first month, and it's a hefty list that includes box office hits, festival favourites and plenty of familiar faces. Get teary over Lion's Oscar-nominated real-life reunion tale, start pondering the afterlife in A Ghost Story (aka the film where Rooney Mara devours a pie and Casey Affleck stands under a sheet), or check out the moving, banned-in-Kenya lesbian romance Rafiki. Elsewhere, Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem team up for the second time in as many years in Loving Pablo, which follows a journalist who falls for Pablo Escobar, while applauded Chinese auteur Jia Zhangke unveils a sprawling crime epic in Ash Is the Purest White. If you're looking for something to do on a Tuesday, the channel is devoting the night to French actor Romain Duris (Heartbreaker, The New Girlfriend), while Thursday evenings will be all about women in film. SBS World Movies launches on Monday, July 1 on channel 32. For its full lineup, visit the SBS TV guide.
We're all going on a Japanese holiday. If you were gearing up to vacation somewhere else across the rest of 2024 or first half of 2025, change your plans. That's the only way to react to Jetstar's latest flight sale, which is bringing back the airline's popular 'return for free' deal with a focus on one country only. Your choice of destinations: the Japanese cities of Tokyo and Osaka. Whichever spot that you decide to fly into, the Australian carrier's new special will bring you home without bothering your bank balance. One caveat: you've got just three days to snap up tickets, with the sale running for 72 hours from 12am AEST on Tuesday, August 6–11.59pm AEST on Thursday, August 8, unless sold out earlier. It really is as straightforward as it sounds. Whichever flights you opt for as part of the sale, covering direct flights from Cairns, Brisbane or Sydney, plus connecting flights out of Melbourne (Tullamarine), Gold Coast and Adelaide, you'll get the return fare for nothing. You do need to nab one of Jetstar's starter fares, and you'll then get a free return starter fare for zilch. Also, you'll have to fly in and out of the same arrival and departure port — either Narita in Tokyo or Kansai in Osaka. Plus, as is usually the case with Jetstar, checked baggage is not included. Still, expect the flights to get snapped up quickly when they go on sale. If you're a Club Jetstar member, you'll get the jump on the special via access from 12pm AEST on Monday, August 5 until midnight. Wondering when you'll be travelling? Dates vary per route, but the windows cover from September 2024 through to late June 2025. Jetstar's Japan 'return for free' sale runs from 12am AEST on Tuesday, August 6–11.59pm AEST on Thursday, August 8 — unless it's sold out earlier. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
There are a lot of things Japanese cuisine does right. Ramen, sushi, teppanyaki — it's all had its time in the sun of the Australian foodie scene, and for good reason. In recent years, though, Sydney has wholeheartedly embraced the sweet life, with plenty of Japanese and Japanese-inspired dessert companies bringing their goods to the people Down Under. Here in Australia, eateries and dessert shops, like their Japanese counterparts, are usually met with long lines and Instagram-happy customers eager to try the much-photographed sweets. To help you on your mission to try all the cult Japanese desserts Sydney has to offer, here are five to add to the top of your list.
For the past 26 years, the suburb of Glebe has been hitching up its harbour-lined skirts for a party every November, and so have all the locals. The reason behind the party? Why, to celebrate itself of course! Stretching for a kilometer down the main drag, the Glebe Street Fair has a circus theme this year, prompting many high-falutin' ideas of acrobats and clowns and a pervasive sense of playfulness. What more does one want on a Sunday? Certainly, more than 100,000 people were lured in by the fair's sights and sounds last year. One of the longest-running annual community events in Sydney, this year's fair will incorporate over 200 stalls that make up the much loved weekly markets, plus delicious food stalls, rides for children and all manner of carnival-inspired activities. Sounds like that's the humans taken care of but what of the Glebe pooches? Funny you should ask, because the fair also doubles as Glebe Dogs Day Out. While the Glebe cats will be sleeping it off at home, the suburb's pups are invited to enter a canine Olympics or if they look better in heels than sneakers, try their luck in one of the "Doggie Fashion" events. Just a heads-up: I saw a dog, a poodle no less, wearing a polo t-shirt and jeans (jeans!) on Pitt Street in the Sydney CBD last year. Too casual I say, go with a nice tutu instead.For those who think dressing up animals is for the slightly disturbed, head or be lead by a roving troubadour gang, to the Arguer's stage where you can get on your figurative soapbox and have a bit of a whinge or perhaps stir the crowd with the your hypothetical Logies speech (what, you've never written one?). I'm kinda tired just thinking about where to start. Safe bet is the baby animal farm in Foley Park.
Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre isn't the best chance to see Aubrey Plaza slink around swanky locales filled with the one-percent in the past year. That honour goes, of course, to her award-nominated turn in the second season of The White Lotus. Plaza's new action-comedy also isn't the best recent movie to cast the deadpan talent as enterprising, resourceful and calculating, and see her plunged into a dangerous, largely male-only realm, all while putting a scheming plan into action. That film is the exceptional Emily the Criminal, which sadly bypassed cinemas Down Under. And, thanks to her star-making turn in Parks and Recreation, wannabe franchise-starter Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre definitely isn't the finest example of her wry comic talents, either. But in a rarity for writer/director Guy Ritchie and his typically testosterone-dripping capers — see: Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Snatch, Revolver, RocknRolla and The Gentlemen — Plaza is the gleaming gem at the centre of this formulaic flick. Putting in a more vibrant performance than the scowling Jason Statham isn't hard, but this is firmly Plaza's picture. Ritchie's go-to leading man still plays Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre's namesake, though: the improbably titled super-spy Orson Fortune, an off-the-books agent who does jobs the British Government can't officially be involved with. Handler Nathan Jasmine (Cary Elwes, Best Sellers) has one such task, recovering a just-stolen item known as 'the handle', which the powers-that-be don't want going to nefarious parties. But, in a mission that first requires collecting a contact at Madrid's airport, then gets far more chaotic quickly, Fortune will have to work with a new team. And, he'll have to jet around the globe with stops at Cannes, in Turkey and more, doing an aspiring Bond and Mission: Impossible act, but in a film that never even threatens to shake or stir the espionage genre. It also doesn't venture beyond mixing Ritchie's beloved bag of tricks together, reading like an effort to split the difference between his last two movies: The Gentlemen and effective revenge thriller Wrath of Man. On-screen, enter Plaza as American tech wiz Sarah Fidel, plus British rapper and actor Bugzy Malone (The Gentlemen) as righthand man JJ Davis. To cosy up to a fake-tanned Hugh Grant (Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery) as international arms dealer Greg Simmonds, also enter Josh Hartnett (The Fear Index) as Hollywood acting big-shot Danny Francesco. The gambit: Simmonds adores Francesco so much that he's bought a car the latter is famous for driving in a movie, so the thespian is the crew's in, with Fidel undercover as his girlfriend and Fortune pretending to be his stern-faced manager. Accordingly, their fresh-faced ring-in will have to inhabit the role he's been born to: himself, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent-style, but without the extra meta layer of a game and entertaining Hartnett actually genuinely doing the same thing. (Nods to everything from Halloween H20, The Faculty and The Virgin Suicides to Sin City and Penny Dreadful would've been a welcome touch here.) When Statham and Ritchie reteamed for Wrath of Man — which Hartnett also co-starred in — it was the first time they'd collaborated in 16 years. Crucially, and one of the primary reasons it worked so well, it was a lean, mean affair that didn't just feel as if its two key figures were simply doing what they've always done together, even though it was indeed another heist flick. The same can't be said about Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre, which endeavours to hoodwink its audience by sometimes similarly adopting a straight-down-the-line tone. That ruse doesn't stick, however, in a film that couldn't paint any more blatantly by Ritchie's usual numbers. He's dallied with spies before, in The Man From U.N.C.L.E., and Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre wishes it was that as well. With its first-billed talent and director comfortably on autopilot, it's no wonder that Plaza, Hartnett and Grant provide the movie's personality. While they don't merely stand out because everything else around them is so routine, a feature this stock-standard puts anything that deviates from its template under a massive magnifying glass. When Plaza isn't engagingly and savvily tackling everything that's thrown Fidel's way, from Fortune's gruff, dismissive demeanour to the Cockney-accented Simmonds' overt attentions — plus chatting modern art as an early distraction technique, and getting thrust into the middle of gunfights and car chases in Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre's third act — the film screams for her presence. Hartnett is also having a great time, as is Grant. It never mentions it, but consider this another ode to the Paddington franchise, too, making its audience wish they were rewatching Grant's OTT villainous portrayal in Paddington 2 instead. In a storyline penned by Ritchie with Ivan Atkinson and Marn Davies, who've both contributed to his past three films in a row now — and do the same with the upcoming The Covenant, which is also due in cinemas in 2023 — Simmonds is in business with violent Ukrainian heavies. Avoiding the movie's MacGuffin from ending up in their hands is the plot's main point, after all. That helps spark those glossily lensed (by Alan Stewart, also a Wrath of Man and The Gentleman alum) but predictable action sequences, and the reported reason that Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre was delayed from its initial 2022 release dates. Whenever it arrived, this was always going to be perfunctory, especially when it wrings zero tension out of the narrative's must-find object. Ritchie and company keep the specifics to themselves for much of the feature, but that doesn't make anyone care what it is — or invest in anything that's going on, a rivalry with a fellow mercenary group led by the one-step-ahead Mike (Peter Ferdinando, The Curse) included. Covert operatives are meant to slip in, get their high-stakes jobs done and leave their marks none the wiser, at least until their quest is safely achieved. Although that never happens on screens big or small, spy stories themselves aren't supposed to be largely unmemorable as well. Again, Plaza isn't. Neither are Hartnett and Grant, but Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre's high-profile supporting players can't make the picture anything more than average. Here's hoping that any sequel, if it eventuates — which this flick advocates for instantly in its moniker, premise and, naturally, its final scenes — realises where its focus should truly be. Bond mightn't be likely to serve up a female lead yet despite Daniel Craig's farewell, but pushing Plaza to the fore, and changing its title in the process, would be any future Operation Fortune instalment's best move.
The nights are longer, the temperature is rising, and people just seem to be more joyous — it must be summer. While December is mainly focused on a certain event on the 25th, it lasts far beyond that. Parramatta comes into its own in summer, with something to do all season long. What's more, plenty of these events are family-friendly occasions that won't break the bank. Parramatta has exactly what you need this summer, starting with these seven standout selections. NEW YEAR'S EVE AT PARRAMATTA PARK Proving there's more to NYE than the display on the Harbour Bridge, Parramatta Park is giving you the opportunity to see off 2023 with a bang. The family-friendly event on Sunday, December 31, is free to attend and includes food trucks, activities and a musical lineup headlined by ARIA Award-winning group Sneaky Sound System. So, you can get a gozleme and a beer, challenge the family to garden games, see some great music and, to top it all off, stare in wonder at a killer fireworks display at 9pm. You can also bring your own food and drinks, esky and blankets, so make a real evening of it and enjoy the last day of the year without breaking the bank. SYDNEY FESTIVAL AT RIVERSIDE THEATRE Now a summer institution, Sydney Festival always kickstarts the new year with various events throughout the city. Parramatta's Riverside Theatres has a great range of shows in January, which are well worth your time. There's something for everybody, from a multicultural comedy gala to a night of Palestinian memories or an interactive Dinosaur World experience. The highlight of the program is Bananaland, a musical comedy about a failing punk band who accidentally become the next Wiggles due to a viral hit. Scored by Aussie pop royalty Kate Miller-Heidke and directed by Simon Phillips of Muriel's Wedding The Musical fame, Bananaland will surely be the hottest ticket in town. SYDNEY SYMPHONY UNDER THE STARS Any opportunity to see the Sydney Symphony Orchestra is special. This free concert in Parramatta Park showcases a range of works, including classical favourites, familiar film scores and Australian originals. On Saturday, January 20, you'll be able to hear Strauss' The Blue Danube and pieces from Apollo 13 and ET, as well as the kind of thing you wouldn't ordinarily associate with a famed orchestra. Aunty Delmae Barton and Véronique Serret are joined by didgeridoo maestro William Barton, and, on top of that, Anoushka Shankar shows off her sitar pedigree (her father is sitar genius and Beatles collaborator, Ravi Shankar). With all this talent on show, it's probably worth reiterating that this concert is free. Gratis. Zero dollars. You've no excuse not to go down there. BALLOON GLOW On Thursday, January 25, head to Parramatta Park's Cattle Paddock for the inaugural Balloon Glow event: a hot-air balloon and light display timed to music. The balloons and lights might be the headline act, but it's a free, community-oriented evening with live music, activities and food trucks to entertain and feed you and the whole family. With something different from your standard local fireworks display, Balloon Glow will spread awe and glee to young and old alike. JAMMIN FESTIVAL It's long established that summer is where it's at for music festivals. The fact that Europe and the US start the year with freezing temperatures means that some of the biggest international acts get the privilege of coming Down Under. Jammin Festival, taking place on the first weekend of February in Parramatta Park, is Australia's premier reggae festival. Next year's headline acts are true heavy hitters: Shaggy and Sean Paul, two of the biggest reggae and dancehall stars of the 21st century, will be appearing alongside legendary reggae mainstays UB40 and ferocious British MC Stefflon Don. There's also a slew of fantastic Australian and Polynesian artists to keep you entertained, meaning the good vibes will flow all weekend. LUNAR NEW YEAR Say goodbye to the Year of the Rabbit and hello to the Year of the Dragon on Saturday, February 10 in Parramatta. Both Parramatta Square and Centenary Square will host festivities and a range of street food stalls, not to mention dancing, lanterns, workshops and performances. You can also catch a dragon art installation by Amigo & Amigo in Parramatta Square for the first half of February. The incredible event will showcase the diversity and inclusion of the local community while celebrating Asian cuisine and culture. There are few better places for you and your family to ring in the Lunar New Year in the state capital. SOULED OUT FEST After a successful soft launch in 2023, Australia's only festival dedicated to modern R&B is going supernova in 2024. Before hitting Melbourne, the Gold Coast, Auckland and Perth, it all kicks off in Parramatta Park. Massive international acts including Summer Walker, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Bryson Tiller, Majid Jordan and Tinashe, will be in attendance, and emerging acts showcasing the full spectrum of what R&B means in the 2020s. It's rare to have the chance to see so many of one genre's global big hitters in one place, so be an early adopter and jump on the Souled Out train before everyone is across it in 2025. And that's just summer in Parramatta. Throughout the year, the River City has plenty on to keep you entertained, whether it's events highlighting the local community or huge sporting matches at CommBank Stadium and the ever-popular Parramatta Lanes, which offers food, music, arts and entertainment. Discover other events around Parramatta at the website.
Not all that long ago, the idea of getting cosy on your couch, clicking a few buttons, and having thousands of films and television shows at your fingertips seemed like something out of science fiction. Now, it's just an ordinary night — whether you're virtually gathering the gang to text along, cuddling up to your significant other or shutting the world out for some much needed me-time. Of course, given the wealth of options to choose from, there's nothing ordinary about making a date with your chosen streaming platform. The question isn't "should I watch something?" — it's "what on earth should I choose?". Hundreds of titles are added to Australia's online viewing services each and every month, all vying for a spot on your must-see list. And, so you don't spend 45 minutes scrolling and then being too tired to actually commit to anything, we're here to help. We've spent plenty of couch time watching our way through this month's latest batch — and, from the latest and greatest through to old and recent favourites, here are our picks for your streaming queue from January's haul. Brand New Stuff You Can Watch From Start to Finish Now Boy Swallows Universe A magical-realist coming-of-age tale, a clear-eyed family drama, a twisty crime and detective thriller, a time capsule of Brisbane in the 80s: since first hitting the page in 2018, Trent Dalton's Boy Swallows Universe has worn its happy flitting between different genres and tones, and constant seesawing from hope to heartbreak and back again, as confidently as readers have long envisaged Eli Bell's wide grin. That hopping and jumping, that refusal to be just one type of story and stick to a single mood, has always made sense on the page — and in the excellent seven-part adaptation that now brings Australia's fastest-selling debut novel ever to the screen, it also couldn't feel more perfect. As played by the charmingly talented Felix Cameron (Penguin Bloom), Eli's smile is indeed big. As scripted by screenwriter John Collee (Hotel Mumbai), and with Dalton among the executive producers, the miniseries embraces its multitudes wholeheartedly. Like style, like substance: a semi-autobiographical novel penned by a writer and journalist who lived variations of plenty that he depicts, learned and accepted early that everyone has flaws, and patently has the imagination of someone who coped with life's hardships as a child by escaping into dreams of an existence more fanciful, Dalton's tome and every iteration that it inspires has to be many things in one bustling package. Its characters are, after all. Seeing people in general, parts of a city usually overlooked, and folks with complicated histories or who've made questionable choices — those forced in particular directions out of financial necessity, too — in more than just one fashion flutters at the centre of Boy Swallows Universe. In the Australian Book Industry Awards' 2019 Book of the Year, Literary Book of the Year and Audio Book of the Year, and now on streaming, Eli's nearest and dearest demand it. So does the enterprising Darra-dwelling 12-year-old boy who knows how to spy the best in those he loves, but remains well-aware of their struggles. His older brother Gus (Lee Tiger Halley, The Heights) hasn't spoken since they were younger, instead drawing messages in the sky with his finger, but is as fiercely protective as elder siblings get. Doting and dedicated mum Frankie (Phoebe Tonkin, Babylon) is a recovering heroin addict with a drug dealer for a partner. And Lyle Orlik (Travis Fimmel, Black Snow), that mullet-wearing stepfather, cares deeply about Eli and Gus — including when Eli convinces him to let him join his deliveries. Boy Swallows Universe streams via Netflix. Read our full review, and our interview with Bryan Brown. Society of the Snow It was meant to be a fun trip to Chile with friends and family for a game. When the Old Christians Club rugby union team boarded Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 in Montevideo on October 13, 1972, destination Santiago, no one among them knew what would happen next. The plane didn't make it to its destination, as 1976 Mexican film Survive!, 1993 American movie Alive and now Spanish-US co-production Society of the Snow each cover. All three features boast apt titles, but only the latest sums up the grim reality and existential dilemma of crashing in the Andes, being stranded for 72 days in snowy climes with little resources against the weather — or for sustenance — and attempting to endure. Taken from the memoir by Pablo Vierci, aka La sociedad de la nieve in Spanish, only this phrase adorning JA Bayona's (Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom) picture encapsulates the tremendous effort that it took to find a way to persist, as well as the fact that trying to remain alive long enough to be rescued meant adapting everything about how the survivors approached each second, minute, hour, day, week and month — and also links in with how a catastrophe like this banded them together, doing whatever it took to find a way off the mountains, while reshaping how they contemplated what it meant to be human. Society of the Snow isn't just a disaster film detailing the specifics of the flight's failed trip, the immediate deaths and those that came afterwards, the lengthy wait to be found — including after authorities called the search off — and the crushing decisions made to get through. Bayona, who also helmed the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami-focused The Impossible, has made a weighty feature that reckons with the emotional, psychological and spiritual toll, and doesn't think of shying away from the most difficult aspects of this real-life situation (including cannibalism). This is both gruelling and meaningful viewing, as crafted with technical mastery (especially by Don't Breathe 2 cinematographer Pedro Luque, plus Cinco lobitos' Andrés Gil and Cites' Jaume Martí as editors), built upon brutal candour, and paying tribute to resilience and then some. Its feats extend to its hauntingly acted performances from a cast that includes Enzo Vogrincic (El Presidente), Agustín Pardella (Secrets of Summer) and Matías Recalt (Planners), all contributing to an account of camaraderie and sacrifice that deserves its Best International Feature Film Oscar nomination. Society of the Snow streams via Netflix. The Tourist Same cast, new location, similar-enough scenario: that's the approach in The Tourist's second season, which brings back what was meant to be a once-off series from 2022. In its debut run, Jamie Dornan's (A Haunting in Venice) Elliot Stanley awoke in the Aussie outback with zero memory and his life in danger. When the first six episodes ended, he'd uncovered who he was, complete with a distressing criminal past, but was en route to starting anew with Helen Chambers (Danielle Macdonald, French Exit), the constable who helped him get to the bottom of his mystery. After the show worked so swimmingly to begin with, swiftly earning its renewal, screenwriters Harry and Jack Williams (Baptiste, The Missing, Liar) switch part of their initial setup for its next spin. The story moves to Elliot's homeland, while Helen is the tourist (as is her grating ex Ethan, as played by Aunty Donna's Coffee Cafe's Greg Larsen). Remaining in the compellingly entertaining thriller-meets-dramedy's return is the lack of recollection about Elliot's history, even as he actively goes looking for it. The Tourist first rejoins its main couple on a train in southeast Asia. While not married, they're firmly in the honeymoon phase of their relationship. But the now ex-cop has a revelation: Elliot has received a letter from one of his childhood pals who wants to meet. Quickly, off to the Emerald Isle they go. Trying to shave off his bushy holiday beard in a public toilet leads to Elliot being kidnapped, plus Helen playing investigator again. As he attempts to flee his captors (Outlander's Diarmaid Murtagh, Inspektor Jury: Der Tod des Harlekins' Nessa Matthews and The Miracle Club's Mark McKenn), she seeks help from local Detective Sergeant Ruairi Slater (Conor MacNeill, Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre), but any dreams that The Tourist's globe-hopping couple had about happy reunions or relaxing Irish getaways are sent packing fast. Disturbing discoveries; feuding families led by the equally formidable Frank McDonnell (Francis Magee, Then You Run) and Niamh Cassidy (Olwen Fouéré, The Northman); again bringing Fargo and TV adaptation to mind: they're all influential factors in The Tourist's easy-to-binge (again) second season. The Tourist season streams via Stan. Read our full review. Echo With its ninth live-action streaming series on Disney+, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has broken out a new label:" Marvel Spotlight". It's now being applied to anything that's apparently less about ongoing MCU continuity and sports a greater emphasis on character. The idea is that watching shouldn't feel like homework, with no prior viewing required. Echo has also dropped its entire five-episode span at once, another MCU first. The focus on badging this Hawkeye spinoff about Maya Lopez (Alaqua Cox, who made her acting debut in the earlier series) as something different because it isn't just connecting Marvel dots and setting up more to come is a curious choice, though. It's also the wrong point to stress. Echo isn't worth watching thanks to a lack of constant MCU winking, nudging and future nods. In fact, given that Avenger Clint Barton (Jeremy Renner, Mayor of Kingstown), Matt Murdoch/Daredevil (Charlie Cox, Kin) and Wilson Fisk/Kingpin (Vincent D'Onofrio, Dumb Money) appear, that "no knowledge necessary" claim isn't accurate. What makes Echo a must-see, rather, is its protagonist, the authenticity with which it explores her story as an Indigenous woman who is deaf and has had a limb amputated, its cast and the potency that gathers across its run. By deviating from its standard release pattern — where it usually launches with a few episodes at once, then doles the rest out weekly — and unveiling the full series in one go, Disney isn't dumping Echo. If anything in the MCU's streaming catalogue demands a one-sitting binge, it's this. As created by Marion Dayre (Better Call Saul), and directed Sydney Freeland (Reservation Dogs) plus Catriona McKenzie (the Australian filmmaker behind 2012's Satellite Boy), Echo's power resounds with more strength the longer that it continues. The show takes time to step into Maya's backstory, explore her Choctaw community in Oklahoma, see how Kingpin's criminal enterprise reverberates through her family and thread its elements together. The three prologues that kick off the first three episodes, each telling of one of Maya's foremothers, start painting the full picture: this is an MCU TV entry made with careful attention to and affection for the cultural heritage that it depicts, and ensures that that's a genuine and crucial part of the narrative, even if Marvel also still being Marvel comes with the territory. Echo streams via Disney+. Read our full review. The Kitchen He has an Oscar, BAFTA and Golden Globe for Judas and the Black Messiah. He was nominated for all of the above accolades for Get Out, and should've won them all then, too. His resume spans Skins, one of Black Mirror's most-memorable episodes, plus Sicario, Widows, Black Panther, Queen & Slim and Nope as well. But The Kitchen marks a first for Daniel Kaluuya: his first movie as a director. Hopefully more will follow. Co-helming with Kibwe Tavares — who also notches up his feature debut behind the lens after shorts including Jonah and Robot & Scarecrow, which both starred Kaluuya — and co-penning the screenplay with Calm with Horses' Joe Murtagh, the actor makes a stunning arrival as a filmmaker. The Kitchen's setup: in the year 2044 in London, with class clashes so pronounced that not being rich is basically treated as a crime, a man (Top Boy's Kane Robinson, aka rapper Kano) living in the titular housing development crosses paths with a 12-year-old boy (newcomer Jedaiah Bannerman) who has just lost his mother, with the pair discovering that they have no one but each other as they endeavour to find a way to survive. Robinson's Izy has bought into the social-climbing dream when The Kitchen begins. He'll do so literally if he can come up with the cash for an apartment in a swankier tower away from everything he's ever known within 21 days, a dream that he's been working towards at his job selling funerals. It's at the latter that he meets Bannerman's Benji, who has nowhere to live after his mother's death and no one else to turn to for help. The film's scenario is pure dystopia, reflecting the inequities, oppressions and realities of today as all great sci-fi should. Its intimate emotional core hones in on people attempting to persist and connect, as the genre's best always does as well. Accordingly, this is an impassioned and infuriated portrait of society's gaps as everyone watching can recognise, a nightmarish vision of what might come and a thoughtful character study. As directors, Kaluuya and Tavares excel at world-building, at bringing such rich detail and texture to the screen that viewers feel like they could step straight into its social realist-leaning frames, and at guiding affecting performances out of both Robinson and Bannerman (who adds to the feature's impressive first efforts). The Kitchen streams via Netflix. Prosper Prosper is the Australian TV series that was always bound to happen. Now that it exists, it's also easy to predict remakes of this involving drama popping up elsewhere in the world. Hillsong very likely inspired the eight-part show, which turns the angling within a Sydney-based megachurch's hierarchy into a Succession riff within religious confines, but the underlying story of power, corruption, and the complicated bonds of family and faith is universal. Richard Roxburgh knows what it's like to lead an Aussie effort that gets a US spin, thanks to Rake — and here he turns in another mesmerising performance. This time, the star of Elvis, The Crown, Aunty Donna's Coffee Cafe, Force of Nature: The Dry 2, Go!, Fires and Bali 2002 in just the past four years alone plays Cal Quinn, a charismatic pastor whose belief in himself is just as strong as his devotion to the almighty. The fact that scandals keep raining down upon U Star, the name for the mix of worship and song he's trying to spread around the world with his wife Abi (Rebecca Gibney, Back to the Rafters) and their offspring, doesn't dent his certainty. The Quinns have big dreams to conquer the US, and also just-as-hefty chaos at home to deal with. Eldest son Dion (Ewen Leslie, The Clearing) wants to be more than just his dad's right-hand man, but has a fraying relationship with his wife Taz (Ming-Zhu Hii, La Brea) that's troubling him. Daughter Issy (Hayley McCarthy, Sylvie's Love) and her husband Benji (Jordi Webber, In Limbo) have their eyes on the American expansion, too. Cal and Abi are desperate to do anything that's necessary to bring Jed (Jacob Collins-Levy, The Witcher: Blood Origin), who left the church to work with the unhoused in the community, back to the fold. Throw in youngest child Moses (Alexander D'souza, Angry Indian Goddesses), a high schooler eager to understand who he truly is — and also family lawyer Eli Slowik (Jacek Koman, Faraway Downs), who knows everyone's secrets — and there's ample fuel for a rollercoaster-ride of a thriller. But as Prosper unpacks the Quinns' lives and lies, it also works in eager parishioner Rosa (Brigid Zengeni, The Artful Dodger) and her skeptical daughter Juno (Andrea Solonge, Class of 07), plus star US singer Maddox (Alex Fitzalan, Chevalier), who claims that he wants to be saved. Prosper strams via Stan. Good Grief Grief is a frequent filmic theme, but also a difficult one. Movie-of-the-week weepies have built their own set of cliches. The worst of the worst use someone's illness to try to claim that dying isn't worse than being by a person's ailing side. Dramedy Good Grief knows that the subject that's right there in its name is tricky, however — and that there's no one-size-fits-all experience of mourning. It also manages a complex task, focusing on a man who becomes a widower when his husband is killed suddenly, following his plight as he realises that not everything about their relationship was as idyllic as he thought, but never using someone losing their life solely as fodder to make its protagonist more interesting or tragic (or both). The directorial debut of Schitt's Creek's Dan Levy, who also pens his first feature screenplay, this sincere grappling with mortality and love cares about its characters deeply. It sees their intricacies and their flaws. This is also a film about the messy space that awaits when everything you thought your future holds crumbles, and then all that you're holding onto feels like it's floating away. Levy also stars as Marc, adding to a busy past year that's also seen him in The Idol, Haunted Mansion and Sex Education. When his character throws a Christmas party with his husband Oliver (Luke Evans, Nine Perfect Strangers), the only thing that doesn't seem rosy is the fact that the latter has a business trip to Paris that's taking him away mid-shindig. But the evening turns heartbreaking, leaving Marc lamenting the perfection he's lost — until he learns that there's more to Oliver's jaunts to France. Accompanied by his best friends Sophie (With Negga, Passing) and Thomas (Himesh Patel, Black Mirror), a visit to the City of Love himself awaits, where the stark discoveries keep coming in tandem with earnest soul-searching. Levy helms and pens this like he's lived it, especially in the honest dialogue. He unfurls the story with humour, too, and soulfulness. And he also never lets the inescapable truth that grief never disappears — and that its evolution never ends, either — fade from view. Good Grief streams via Netflix. New and Returning Shows to Check Out Week by Week True Detective Even when True Detective had only reached its second season, the HBO series had chiselled its template into stone: obsessive chalk-and-cheese cops with messy personal lives investigating horrifying killings, on cases with ties to power's corruption, in places where location mattered and with the otherworldly drifting in. A decade after the anthology mystery show's debut in 2014, True Detective returns as Night Country, a six-part miniseries that builds its own snowman out of all of the franchise's familiar parts. The main similarity from there: like the Matthew McConaughey (The Gentlemen)- and Woody Harrelson (White House Plumbers)-led initial season, True Detective: Night Country is phenomenal. This is a return to form and a revitalisation. Making it happen after two passable intervening cases is a new guiding hand off-screen. Tigers Are Not Afraid filmmaker Issa López directs and writes or co-writes every episode, boasting Moonlight's Barry Jenkins as an executive producer. True Detective creator Nic Pizzolatto remains in the latter role, too, as do McConaughey, Harrelson and season-one director Cary Joji Fukunaga (No Time to Die); however, from its female focus and weighty tussling with the dead to its switch to a cool, blue colour scheme befitting its Alaskan setting, there's no doubting that López is reinventing her season rather than ticking boxes. In handing over the reins, Pizzolatto's police procedural never-standard police procedural is a powerhouse again, and lives up to the potential of its concept. The commitment and cost of delving into humanity's depths and advocating for those lost in its abyss has swapped key cops, victims and locations with each spin, including enlisting the masterful double act of Jodie Foster (Nyad) and boxer-turned-actor Kali Reis (Catch the Fair One) to do the sleuthing, but seeing each go-around with fresh eyes feels like the missing puzzle piece. López spies the toll on the show's first women duo, as well as the splinters in a remote community when its fragile sense of certainty is forever shattered. She spots the fractures that pre-date the investigation in the new season, a cold case tied to it, plus the gashes that've carved hurt and pain into the earth ever since people stepped foot on it. She observes the pursuit of profit above all else, and the lack of concern for whatever — whoever, the region's Indigenous inhabitants included — get in the way. She sees that the eternal winter night of 150 miles north of the Arctic Circle come mid-December isn't the only thing impairing everyone's sight. And, she knows that not everything has answers, with life sometimes plunging into heartbreak, or inhospitable climes, or one's own private hell, without rhyme or reason. True Detective streams via Binge. Read our full review. Criminal Record It was accurate with side-splitting hilarity in The Thick of It, as dripping with heartbreak in Benediction and in the world of Doctor Who in-between: Peter Capaldi is one of Scotland's most fascinating actors today. Criminal Record uses his can't-look-away presence to excellent effect, casting him as DCI Daniel Hegarty, one of the eight-part series' two key detectives. By day, the no-nonsense Hegarty is a force to be reckoned with on the force. By night, he moonlights as a driver, seeing much that lingers in London as he's behind the wheel. In his not-so-distant past is a case that brings DS June Lenker (Cush Jumbo, The Good Fight) into his orbit — a case that she's certain is linked to a distressed emergency call by a woman trying to flee domestic abuse, and who says that her partner has already committed murder, gotten away with it and sent another man to prison for the crime in the process. Hegarty contends otherwise, and gruffly, but Lenker is determined to discover the truth, find her potential victim, ascertain whether someone innocent is in jail and learn why every move she makes to dig deeper comes with professional retaliation. This is no odd-couple cop show. It's largely a two-hander, however — and saying that it couldn't be better cast is an understatement. Capaldi is already someone who makes every moment that he's on-screen better. So is Jumbo, which makes watching them face off as riveting as television gets. Passive aggression oozes from the frame when Hegarty and Lenker first confront each other. Tension drips throughout the series relentlessly, but do so with particular vigour whenever its key cops are in close proximity. Criminal Record doesn't waste time keeping audiences guessing about who's dutifully taking their role as part of the thin blue line and who's part of policing at its most corrupt; instead, it lets those two sides that are both meant to be on the upstanding end of the law-and-order divide clash, surveying the damage that ripples not just through the fuzz but also the community. While twists and mysteries are also layered in, they regularly come second to Criminal Record's extraordinary performances, plus its thematic willingness to tear into what policing should be, can be and often is. Criminal Record streams via Apple TV+. Expats Adapting Janice YK Lee's 2016 novel The Expatriates, Lulu Wang's first major stint behind the lens since The Farewell has been dubbed Expats as a miniseries. The six-parter marks a shift in location to Hong Kong and a splinter in focus to three protagonists for its guiding force — with Wang creating the show, executive producing, helming all six episodes and writing two — but she's still plunging deep into bonds of blood, deceptions amid close relationships, grappling with grief and tragedy, and being caught between how one is meant to carry on and inescapable inner emotions. It too sees not only people but also its chosen place. It's a haunting series and, albeit not literally in the horror sense, a series about women haunted. And it's spectacularly cast, with Nicole Kidman (Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom), Sarayu Blue (A Million Miles Away) and Ji-young Yoo (The Sky Is Everywhere) each stellar as its three main characters, all who've relocated for love, work or new beginnings, then make each other's acquaintance. The year is 2014, and Margaret Woo, her husband Clarke (Brian Tee, Chicago Med) and their family aren't new Hong Kong arrivals — but their past 12 months have been under a shadow ever since their youngest son Gus (debutant Connor James) went missing. No one is coping, including elder children Daisy (Tiana Gowen, True Love Blooms) and Philip (Bodhi del Rosario, 9-1-1). But while Margaret refuses to give up hope of finding her three-year-old boy, there are still lives to lead and, to help start Expats, a 50th birthday party for Clarke to host. In the lift at The Peak, the towering symbol of wealth inhabited by plenty who give the show its title, she's also insistent that her friend, downstairs neighbour and fellow American Hilary Starr (Blue) attend the shindig. The frostiness that fills the elevator also stems from Gus' disappearance, and accusations made against Hilary's recovering-alcoholic husband David (Jack Huston, Anne Rice's Mayfair Witches). When the soiree takes place, Mercy (Yoo) is there working one of her gig-economy jobs. Indeed, the lives of the privileged aren't solely this show's domain — because while this is a tale of three Americans adrift with their sorrows, where and the reality that surrounds them is equally as important as how and why. Expats streams via Prime Video. Read our full review. Death and Other Details There's no doubting that Death and Other Details loves whodunnits, or that it's made with a murderers' row of them in mind. Playing "spot the nod" is one of this ten-part series' games. Sleuthing along with its plot is the other, obviously. So, as an odd couple with an age discrepancy team up to attempt to solve "a classic locked-room mystery" — the show even calls it such — among the preposterously wealthy on holiday, and on a boat at that, where everyone has a motive and a battle over who'll seize control of a family business is also taking place, gleaning what creators and writers Heidi Cole McAdams and Mike Weiss (who also worked together on Stumptown) have been reading and watching isn't a puzzle. Nudges and references are regularly part of the murder-mystery genre anyway; here, recalling Agatha Christie's oeuvre and especially Death on the Nile, as well as Only Murders in the Building, Knives Out, Poker Face, The White Lotus and Succession, is part of sailing into a tale that's also about what we remember and why. Indeed, when other films and shows earn a wink here, Death and Other Details also digs into the purpose behind the minutiae that sticks in our memories. It's a savvy yet risky gambit, getting viewers ruminating on how they spy patterns and filter their perspectives, too, while chancing coming off as derivative. Mostly the series bobs in the first direction; however, even when it sways in the second, it still intrigues its audience to keep watching. Its seemingly mismatched pair: Imogene Scott (Violett Beane, God Friended Me) and the Hercule Poirot-esque Rufus Cotesworth (Mandy Patinkin, Homeland), with the second regularly dubbed "the world's greatest detective". Most folks might believe that label, but Imogene does not. The duo shares a history spanning two decades, from when she was a child (Sophia Reid-Gantzert, Popular Theory) mourning the shock killing of her mother that he couldn't solve. Back then, Rufus was on the case at the behest of the wealthy Colliers, who work in textiles, employed Imogene's mum as a personal assistant to patriarch Lawrence (David Marshall Grant, Spoiler Alert) and took the girl in when she had no one else. Now, both Rufus and Imogene are guests on a cruise chartered by them — she's there as basically a member of the family; he's accompanying the Chuns, with whom the Colliers are in the middle of a billion-dollar business deal — when bodies start piling up. Death and Other Details streams via Disney+. Read our full review. One of the Best Films of 2023 That You Absolutely Need to Watch — or Rewatch Killers of the Flower Moon Death comes to Killers of the Flower Moon quickly. Death comes to Killers of the Flower Moon often. While Martin Scorsese will later briefly fill the film's frames with a fiery orange vision — with what almost appears to be a lake of flames deep in oil country, as dotted with silhouettes of men — death blazes through his 26th feature from the moment that the picture starts rolling. Adapted from journalist David Grann's 2017 non-fiction novel Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI, with the filmmaker himself and Dune's Eric Roth penning the screenplay, this is a masterpiece of a movie about a heartbreakingly horrible spate of deaths sparked by pure and unapologetic greed and persecution a century back. Scorsese's two favourite actors in Leonardo DiCaprio (Don't Look Up) and Robert De Niro (Amsterdam) are its stars, alongside hopefully his next go-to in Lily Gladstone (Reservation Dogs), but murder and genocide are as much at this bold and brilliant, epic yet intimate, ambitious and absorbing film's centre — all in a tale that's devastatingly true. As Mollie Kyle, a member of the Osage Nation in Grey Horse, Oklahoma, incomparable Certain Women standout Gladstone talks through some of the movie's homicides early. Before her character meets DiCaprio's World War I veteran Ernest Burkhart — nephew to De Niro's cattle rancher and self-proclaimed 'king of the Osage' William King Hale — she notes that several Indigenous Americans that have been killed, with Mollie mentioning a mere few to meet untimely ends. There's nothing easy about this list, nor is there meant to be. Some are found dead, others seen laid out for their eternal rest, and each one delivers a difficult image. But a gun fired at a young mother pushing a pram inspires a shock befitting a horror film. The genre fits here, in its way, as do many others as Killers of the Flower Moon follows Burkhart's arrival in town, his deeds under his uncle's guidance, his romance with Mollie and the tragedies that keep springing: American crime saga, aka the realm that Scorsese has virtually made his own, as well as romance, relationship drama, western, true crime and crime procedural. Killers of the Flower Moon streams via Apple TV+. Read our full review, and our interview with Martin Scorsese. Need a few more streaming recommendations? Check out our picks from January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December 2023. You can also check out our running list of standout must-stream shows from last year as well — and our best 15 new shows of 2023, 15 newcomers you might've missed, top 15 returning shows of the year, 15 best films, 15 top movies you likely didn't see, 15 best straight-to-streaming flicks and 30 movies worth catching up on over the summer.
If escaping into Australia's great outdoors, putting one foot in front of the other, and combining a leisurely walk — or an energetic hike — with soaking in the scenery is your idea of bliss, the past few weeks keep delivering welcome news. Firstly, the Snowy Mountains became home to a new nine-kilometre section of its Snowies Alpine Walk, complete with Australia's highest suspension bridge. Then, the New South Wales Government announced a massive 91-kilometre waterfront walking track from the Sydney Opera House to Parramatta. Now, still in NSW, the Gondwana Rainforests have been earmarked for a new excuse to get moseying, too. As part of NSW's 2022-23 budget, Treasurer Matt Kean has added the new Dorrigo Escarpment Great Walk to the list of upcoming projects that the state's residents and travellers alike can look forward to. Scoring $56.4-million in budget funding, it'll span 46 kilometres, all through stunning rainforest surroundings on the state's mid-north coast. And, there'll be two- and four-day route options. Your starting point: a new Arc Rainforest Centre, which'll come complete with a stunning-looking hanging boardwalk that'll overlook the World Heritage spot. From there, as you roam along the trail, you'll wander over three suspension bridges. There'll also be four low-impact walkers' hut precincts, as well as new camping areas — because if you're committing to taking the full multi-day trek, you'll need somewhere to slumber along the route. That budget cash will also go towards the Arc Rainforest Centre, which is designed to be an attraction in itself thanks to its viewing platform. It'll also include a new treetop skywalk, which'll feature an upper and lower deck so you can still make the most of it when it's raining — and spiralling walkways that'll take you down into the rainforest, to the existing six-kilometre Wonga Walk as well as the new Dorrigo Escarpment Great Walk. Back on the Dorrigo Escarpment Great Walk itself, it'll meander through the Dorrigo and Bindarri National Parks, with about half of the 46-kilometre stretch charting existing tracks and trails. Hikers won't be short on spectacular sights; expect to see waterfalls, giant old growth trees and wild rivers along the way. If you're excited about the huts and camping sites, they'll be operated, run and booked through NSW's National Parks and Wildlife Services. And, the walk will have another big aim: becoming a place for folks to learn about and connect with the culture of the Gumbaynggirr people, the area's Traditional Custodians. Exactly when the centre and walk will welcome in visitors hasn't been revealed as yet, however — so add this one to your future must-visit list, rather than packing your bags and popping on your comfiest walking shoes now. "Through the NSW Budget, we're investing $56.4 million to offer a new way for people to enjoy the ancient World Heritage environment," said Kean. "This project will drive increased nature-based tourism in NSW, further bolstering the contribution that national parks make to the state economy. For more information about the Dorrigo Escarpment Great Walk, head to the NSW Government website.
"Sometimes I think the only way to be truthful is to say nothing at all," says Thuso Lekwape's Johnny, reflecting on an evening spent with Charlotte's (Contessa Treffone) parents. The sentiment may not completely sum up Darlinghurst Theatre Company's latest production, but there is a sense that the play says an awful lot without conveying much of anything. The Mystery of Love and Sex, written by Bathsheba Doran, centres around Charlotte and Johnny, two American college students who have been friends for an age. Their relationship is easy, comfortable, solid — a bond that romance would only confuse. Charlotte's parents (Deborah Galanos and Nicholas Papademetriou) can't get their heads around this and try to nudge the pair into something more clear-cut. But Charlotte's in love with a girl from college. And Johnny has slept with a number of men he can't stand. Both are confused and as things get more complicated, the friendship starts to fray. The cast, directed by Anthony Skuse, are engaging, but the script seems to have a set-'em-up-knock-'em-down approach to the issues it explores. It tries to juggle questions about how friendship changes as we age, friendship versus marriage and how we come to terms with our sexual identities, but ends up flitting between them without ever stopping to pinpoint exactly what it's getting at. Except for an intimate scene shared by Charlotte and her mother, the second half quickly descends into an unsatisfying fairy tale. That said, Galanos' Lucinda is fantastic, pulling off a transition from quietly crumbling nicotine addict to a revolutionary for the hedonist cause within the space of the intermission. Lekwape's Johnny is understated, but he ages very convincingly over the course of the play. Papademetriou's Howard is amusingly and frustratingly paternal throughout, despite the script affording him very little development and Truffone manages a fine line with Charlotte, whose self-righteous streak might have been grating in other hands. Emma Vine's set runs pleasant interference on the naturalism of the text — a giant upside down tree sits menacingly to the side in the dusky pre-show light, while the majority of the action takes place on a large white wedge, its wonkiness geometrically jazzing up a few of the talkier scenes. "Weird is good," says Lucinda, attempting to comfort her daughter during the play. "Weird is life." The Mystery of Love and Sex, while performed capably, needs a few more doses of weirdness before it can be mistaken for the real thing.
Dig out those once-a-year novelty gumboots, Groovin the Moo has unveiled its 2018 lineup. Taking the large-scale music festival out of the city and into regional centres for another year, GTM will kick things off on Friday, April 27 in South Australia and travel through Maitland, Townsville, Bendigo and Canberra before finishing up in Bunbury on May 12. This year sees local talent new and established taking the stage, with the lineup spanning up-and-comers like Alex Lahey, Baker Boy and Winston Surfshirt right through to favourites Flight Facilities and Australian legend Paul Kelly. International talent like Portugal. The Man, Royal Blood and Duke Dumont will make their way to the Moo too. Here's the full lineup. GROOVIN THE MOO 2018 LINEUP Alex Lahey Aminé (USA) The Amity Affliction Baker Boy Ball Park Music Claptone (Ger) Confidence Man Cosmo's Midnight Dean Lewis Duke Dumont (UK) Flight Facilities Grinspoon Lady Leshurr (UK) Mallrat Ocean Alley Paul Kelly Portugal. The Man (USA) Public Service Broadcasting (UK) Royal Blood (UK) Sampa The Great Skegss Superduperkyle (USA) Tkay Maidza Vera Blue Winston Surfshirt GROOVIN THE MOO 2018 DATES & VENUES Friday, April 27 — Wayville (SA) Saturday, April 28 – Maitland (NSW) Sunday, April 29 — Canberra (ACT) Saturday, May 5 — Bendigo (VIC) Sunday, May 6 – Townsville (QLD) Saturday, May 12 — Bunbury (WA) Pre-sale tickets for GTM will go on sale at 9am local time on Wednesday, January 31. All other tickets for Wayville, Maitland and Canberra will go on sale at 9am on Tuesday, February 6, and Bendigo, Bunbury and Townsville will be released the day after at 9am on Wednesday, February 7. For more info, go to gtm.net.au. Image: Jack Toohey.
Sue and Russell Parsons opened the Central Coast's gourmet cheese factory eight years ago and in that time it's amassed awards for 12 varieties of cheddar, haloumi, curd cheese and a blue that, we're told, even the most mouldy cheese averse will love. Little Creek Cheese can be found the Old Wyong Milk Factory once stood, which was the first dairy in the country to commercially produce yogurt, and so it also makes a creamy yogurt in the old dairy factory's honour. [caption id="attachment_776741" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kitti Gould[/caption] You can drop into the factory in Wyong to taste its lemon myrtle and mountain pepper fetta, garlicky labne, or gin-flavoured cheddar (yep) — or any of the other flavours on offer. A 30-minute private tasting with the cheesemaker is $20 per person in which you'll get to sample ten of its cheeses. For a more hands-on tour, book into the Cheese Experience for $110 and you'll get to make your own ricotta and paneer as you learn about the humble beginnings of the artisan cheese factory. Images: Kitti Gould
So, you've successfully smashed all the walks and hikes in town and you're looking for some fresh tracks to conquer? We reckon you'll be kept pretty busy with Sydney's new — and utterly enormous — walking trail, known as the Great West Walk. Clocking in at 65 kilometres, the walk runs all the way from Parramatta to the foot of the Blue Mountains in Penrith. As Western Sydney's longest walk, the trail traverses a lot of residential streets (and even the Great Western Highway at one point), but you'll still have plenty in the way of nature opportunities — no matter how much of it you're tackling at once. Near the start, it runs along the river through Parramatta Park, by the likes of the Old Government House and The Old Dairy, and a new 1.2-kilometre track along Toongabbie Creek. You can take in the Lost Rogans Hill Railway Line at Northmead, Seven Hills' International Peace Park and the scenic surrounds of Chang Lai Yuan Chinese Gardens in Western Sydney Parklands. [caption id="attachment_745897" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Great West Walk map, courtesy of the City of Parramatta.[/caption] As you get further out, The Great West Walk passes through the heritage-listed Rooty Hill Historic Site and the 900-hectare Wianamatta Regional Park. It finishes at the Nepean River, where you can either kick back enjoying views of the Blue Mountains in the background, link up to the existing eight-kilometre Great River Walk or venture a few more metres into the Penrith CBD for a hard-earned coffee and feed. You probably won't be knocking the whole thing out in one go, but it can easily be done in parts over a couple of weekends. The track intersects with the train line at multiple points, too, so you'll be able to get there and back without much hassle. Plus, it might even save you a drive to a national park and help you explore your own backyard a bit more. The whole thing has been brought to life with the help of hiking group the Walking Volunteers (who also helped create the 760-kilometre Sydney Harbour and Coastal Walking Network), along with almost $500,000 from the NSW Government and support from the likes of local councils, NSW Parks and Wildlife Services, and Western Sydney Parkland Trust. The Walking Volunteers are the first to put the Great West Walk through its paces. They set out to tackle the whole 65 kilometre stretch on Friday, and are expected to end in Penrith this evening, Tuesday, October 15. The Great West Walk starts at Parramatta and ends in Penrith. To plan your walk, view the map here. Image: Western Sydney Parklands.
Are you searching for somewhere to wine and dine in Sydney over the long weekend? There's no shortage of cafes, restaurants and bars around town that are dishing up the goods in celebration of the king's birthday. Here are a few spots that are open, ready to fill your belly and whet your whistle. Restaurants: The Botanist, Saturday: 12pm–midnight, Sunday: 12–10pm The Butcher's Block Barangaroo, Saturday, Sunday: 8am–late, Monday: 8am–3pm Coogee Pavilion, Saturday, Sunday: 7.30am–late, Monday: 11am–midnight House Bar at Barangaroo House, Saturday: 12pm–midnight, Sunday, Monday: 12–10pm House Canteen, Saturday: 7.30am–11pm, Sunday: 7.30am–12pm, Monday: 7.30am–11pm Little Pearl, Saturday: 7am–late, Sunday, Monday: 7am–10pm Loulou Bistro, Saturday, Sunday: 11.30am–11pm Loulou Boulangerie & Traiteur, Saturday–Monday: 7am–4pm Lotus Barangaroo, Saturday–Monday: 12–3pm, 5.30–9.30pm Opera Bar, Saturday: 11–12.30am, Sunday: 11am–10pm, Monday 11am–11pm Reign, Saturday: 10am–11pm, Sunday: 10am–6pm, Monday: 11am–8pm Untied, Saturday: 11am–late, Sunday: 12–10pm, Monday: 12–10pm [caption id="attachment_848714" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Vic on the Park[/caption] Bars and Pubs: Albion Hotel, Saturday: 10–6am, Sunday: 10am–midnight, Monday: 10–4am The Abercrombie, Saturday: 12pm–5am, Sunday: 12pm–6am, Monday: 12pm–2am The Bank, Saturday: 10–4am, Sunday: 12pm–midnight, Monday: 10–2am Cargo Bar, Saturday–Monday: 11.30am–2am The Clock Hotel, Saturday: 11.30am–10pm, Sunday: 10am–midnight, Monday: 11.30am–midnight The Courthouse Hotel, Saturday: 12pm–midnight, Sunday: 12–10pm, Monday: 12pm–midnight Darlo Bar, Saturday–Monday: 12pm–midnight The Dolphin, Saturday, Sunday: 11.30am–midnight, Monday: 12–10pm The Erko, Saturday: 10am–midnight, Sunday: 10am–10pm, Monday: 10am–midnight The Golden Sheaf, Saturday: 10am–2am, Sunday: 10am–midnight, Monday: 10am–1am Kings Cross Hotel, Saturday: 10am–3:30am, Sunday: 12pm–midnight, Monday: 10am–3.30am The Marlborough Hotel, Saturday: 10am–4am, Sunday: 10am–midnight, Monday: 10–4am Paddo Inn, Saturday: 12pm–1am, Sunday–Monday: 12–10pm Public House Petersham, Saturday: 12pm–1am, Sunday–Monday: 12pm–midnight The Royal Paddington, Saturday: 11am—midnight, Sunday: 11am—10pm, Monday: 11am—midnight The Strand, Saturday: 10am–3am, Sunday: 10am–midnight, Monday: 10am–10pm Top image: Grant Angus.
Being a kid and loving spooky movies was glorious in 1993. That year three decades back gave the world two beloved all-ages-friendly flicks that have become October staples ever since — and, in one case, suitable festive viewing as well. One came with Tim Burton's name attached. The other told everyone to run amok, amok, amok. Now, to celebrate their 30th anniversaries, both The Nightmare Before Christmas and Hocus Pocus are returning to cinemas. Moviegovers can see Jack Skellington's antics on the big screen Down Under again from Thursday, October 12, and the Sanderson sisters wreaking havoc from Thursday, October 19. As for which actual picture palaces are playing the films, and at what times, you'll need to check your local — but nostalgia and family-friendly scares will be whirring through the projectors once more. With The Nightmare Before Christmas, filmmakers Tim Burton and Henry Selick (Wendell & Wild) served up one of the most enchanting holiday films to hit the big screen — and one that doubles as both Halloween and Christmas viewing. It's Burton's name that everyone remembers; however, a pre-Coraline Selick is actually in the director's chair on The Nightmare Before Christmas, which charms with both its offbeat story and its gorgeous stop-motion animation. Burton came up with the narrative though, because Jack Skellington only could've originated from the Beetlejuice and Edward Scissorhands filmmaker's brain. Imaginative, original and engaging (even as it nods to Dr Seuss a few times), it still remains a treat for all ages. [caption id="attachment_921880" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Disney.[/caption] The Hocus Pocus franchise is no stranger to comebacks, given that it dropped a 29-years-later sequel on streaming in 2022, with a third film also on the way. Helmed by Kenny Ortega before the director gave the world the High School Musical movies, the OG flick was the first to enlist Bette Midler (The Addams Family 2), Sarah Jessica Parker (And Just Like That...) and Kathy Najimy (Music) as Winnie, Sarah and Mary Sanderson — and to unleash them in modern-day Salem. Back then, someone lit the black flame candle, which resurrected the 17th-century sisters in the movie's world — and had viewers warned about locking up their children. If you have "twist the bones and bend the back" stuck in your head just thinking about it, you're obviously a fan. Check out the trailers for The Nightmare Before Christmas and Hocus Pocus below: The Nightmare Before Christmas is returning to cinemas Down Under from Thursday, October 12, and Hocus Pocus from Thursday, October 19 — head to your local cinema for details. Images: Matt Kennedy. © 2022 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Whether its Pappa Rich's nasi lemak burger or Betty's Burgers' prawn roll, limited-edition sandos are an easy way to have some fun with your menu, and Sydneysiders love when a local favourite pulls together an inventive new creation between two buns. The latest spot to mix things up in the burger world is Nashville-style fried chicken chain Super Nash Brothers who are bringing an outlandish Barbacue Shapes-flavoured burger to their three Sydney stores and to Deliveroo. The Super Shapes Sando takes the basics of the Nash Brothers' popular Super Nash Sando and adds the nostalgic flavour of Arnott's beloved snack. On the burger, you'll find a super-crispy fried chicken thigh, first seasoned in the Super Nash Brothers secret breading before it's deep-fried and then completed with a healthy amount of Barbecue Shapes-inspired seasoning. From there, it's joined by slices of pineapples and a tangy tomato and onion relish. The burger can be ordered solo or in a combo, which comes with chips, a Shapes-flavoured chicken tender, a drink and a sachet of Shapes seasoning which you can add to your chips. "Nostalgia is a big part of our vibe at Super Nash Brothers so we're super pumped to be working with such an iconic brand and flavour," Founder and CEO at Super Nash Brothers Ross Kemp said. The limited-edition burger is available at Super Nash Brothers Waterloo, Waitara and Willoughby, and can be ordered for delivery via Deliveroo. If you want to get your hands on one, you'll have to act fast. It's only available for the next six days, between Tuesday, September 20 and Sunday, September 25. The Super Shapes Sando is available in-store from Super Nash Brothers at 503 Wiloughby Road, Willoughby, 29 Amelia Street, Waterloo and 22 Waitara Avenue, Waitara, or via Deliveroo.
Last September, John Malkovich took time off from being John Malkovich to be Everyone Else for a change. Shot by Sandro Miller in Los Angeles, the highly publicised series of photographs dubbed Malkovich, Malkovich, Malkovich recreated some of the most iconic portraits in recent history — from John and Yoko to Che Guevara, Dorothea Lange's Migrant Woman to Andres Serrano's Piss Christ. And now the series is coming to Sydney as part of this year's Head On Photo Festival (running May 1 - 31), showing at Darlinghurst's Black Eye Gallery from April 28 - May 5. Malkovich, Malkovich, Malkovich is just the tip of the iceberg for Head On. The photography festival will showcase works from local and international photographers in over 50 featured exhibitions across Sydney, running from May 1–31. There's some pretty diverse exhibitions at the new Head On Festival Hub at Sydney Lower Town Hall. There's Georges Pacheco’s exhibition, Amalthée, which takes cues from Italian and Dutch renaissance painting to look at the universal and timeless act of breastfeeding. There's also Sydney-based photographer Nic Bezzina's show Cam Girls, which consists of screen grabs from 'Cam Girl' websites — where women enact instructed sexual fantasies via webcam. There are retrospectives aplenty this year too. Internationally acclaimed photographer Emmanuel Angelicas has a retrospective detailing his 45 years of documenting Marrickville's often overlooked residents, and portrait photographer to the stars George Fetting will also delve into years of shooting the likes of Buzz Aldrin, Cate Blanchett, Baz Luhrmann, Spike Milligan, Lee Lin Chin, Marcel Marceau, Barry Humphries, Ralph Fiennes, Billy Idol and many more.
Summer, glorious summer: we spend all year waiting for the perfect weather and a respite from the responsibilities of everyday life but, too often, the holidays pass us by without any noteworthy adventures. No longer. To help you take full advantage of this summer break, we've teamed up with Expedia to select five destinations that are guaranteed to take your holidays from average to exceptional. Each location is less than a nine-hour flight from Sydney — perfect for a cheeky little trip — you'll be soaking up the good life in exotic surroundings before you know it. Because we know that you're all just as into food as we are, we've hunted down somewhere to eat once you get there, from fine dining, to cafe and street food and waterside restaurants. Happy adventuring. AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND FLIGHT TIME: THREE HOURS Overlooked by many tourists who rush onwards to the North Island's more famous landscapes, Auckland is something of a hidden gem. There are waterfront vistas that give Sydney a run for its money, world-class restaurants and a burgeoning art scene all to be explored. Book at room at the colourful boutique Hotel DeBrett and start your visit with a wander around Viaduct Harbour, a glittering precinct with numerous bars and restaurants offering gorgeous views over the harbour. With its acclaimed seafood dishes, Euro is a particular highlight. For your culture fix, head to the Auckland Art Gallery, home to over 15,000 works by Māori, Pacific Island, and international artists. Pop into the gallery cafe for delicious pastries and coffee served in a bright, airy space. Still hungry? If you're in town during a weekend, don't miss French-inspired farmers market La Cigale, where you can gorge yourself silly on a selection of cheeses, pastries, artisanal bread and other delicacies. Next, it's time to get outdoors. No visit to Auckland is complete without a trek up one of the city's 53 volcanic peaks. Mount Eden is a favourite for its jaw-dropping crater and sweeping views over the city. For a unique beach experience, head to the western shore, where black sand beaches are flanked by dramatic cliffs and dunes. More of a classic white sand/emerald waters person? Catch a 40-minute ferry to stunning Waiheke Island. The retreat of choice for Auckland's affluent types, the island is also home to dozens of world-class wineries (try the secluded Te Whau for its delicious blends and award-winning restaurant). EAT: KAZUYA Auckland's legendary Japanese restaurant Kazuya is not something to miss. At this fine dining establishment the waiters wear white gloves. Try the signature dish 'Texture' — 30 different types of vegetables, from tiny shavings of baby beetroot to exquisite mustard greens and perfectly cooked, bright green broccoli. Check out Concrete Playground Auckland for an entire city's worth of more handy eating, drinking and playing tips. [caption id="attachment_580107" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Levi Morsy.[/caption] BALI, INDONESIA FLIGHT TIME: SIX HOURS With its lush landscapes, gorgeous beaches, rich culture, and relative affordability, it's not surprising that Bali is on practically every Aussie's bucket list. Plus, the paradisiacal island offers something for everyone: from the party animal to the surf bum to the yogi. If it's nightlife you're after, skip overdone Kuta and head to still busy but less saturated Seminyak. Hang out at Ku De Ta, an upscale restaurant and bar that morphs into a club in the evenings or catch a live gig at Potato Head bar. If it's gourmet eats you want, Seminyak's buzzing foodie scene offers endless options. Two standouts are Sardine, where oh-so-fresh seafood is served in a bamboo structure overlooking emerald rice paddies, and Barbacoa, a South American joint with stunning decor. More of a beach type? Don't miss Uluwatu, an area famous for its pristine beaches, amazing surf, and awe-inspiring sunsets. Grab your board and spend the day riding world-class surf breaks, or simply grab a book and a cocktail and while the afternoon away on the sand. Keen to create your own version of Eat, Pray, Love (stay with us)? Then Ubud is the place for you. Bali's cultural heart offers yoga and meditation studios aplenty, and has spas on practically every street corner. Our pick is Putri Bali Spa, which offers an insanely affordable five-hour package that will leave you glowing. Book your visit just before you hop on the plane, and you'll return to Sydney entirely blissed out. EAT: DAMAI This poolside restaurant serves award-winning cuisine using local Balinese ingredients, many of which are grown in the restaurant's kitchen garden. Meat and shellfish come from the villa's boutique farm, and eggs and poultry are gathered from locals. Book a room in the accompanying, stunning villa and treat yourself. SUVA, FIJI FLIGHT TIME: SEVEN HOURS With dazzling sand, crystal clear waters, and palm trees at every turn, there's almost no better place than Fiji for a beach-heavy holiday (plus, your Instagram photos are guaranteed to make your mates cry with envy). Composed of 333 islands, choosing where to spend your time in Fiji will be the hardest part of your holiday. We suggest you start with Viti Levu, Fiji's largest island and home to the nation's capital city, Suva. Filled with striking colonial architecture, temples, mosques, and museums, this is the perfect place to get your culture fix before heading to the beach. If you're in town on a Saturday morning, don't miss the municipal market for a heady taste of local life and a great selection of fresh produce, clothing, and souvenirs. Once you've fully explored Suva, it's time to make a beeline for the ocean. For stellar snorkelling and diving, look no further than the impossibly picturesque Mamanucas and Yasawa Islands. For some of the world's best surfing breaks, head to Namatou Island, where you'll be spoiled for choice. In between your water activities, try some yaqona (or kava). This ceremonial drink is ubiquitous in Fiji and should be tried at least once — in fact, if you're invited to join a local kava ceremony, it's considered impolite to say no. Once you've soaked up the idyllic beachside lifestyle for a few days, tear yourself away from the water and venture into some lush island interiors. For gorgeous hikes through a protected rainforest with plenty of waterfalls and deep pools, try the Bouma National Heritage Park on Taveuni Island. For a stunning accomodation option, we reccomend the Tokoriki Island Resort — it has fishing, snorkelling and sailing on site. EAT: TRADITIONAL DELICACIES There are a wealth of restaurants to eat at when you're in Fiji, but the local cuisine trumps it all. Heavily influenced by the water that surrounds it, Fijian food is filled with seafood options — like octopus, sea urchin and fish. Each island in Fiji will have their own version of Kokoda — finely chopped raw fish dressed with a thick coconut cream, onions, spices and lime juice. It's traditionally served in half a coconut shell, or a clamshell. [caption id="attachment_574226" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Image: Kai Lehmann via Flickr[/caption] SINGAPORE FLIGHT TIME: EIGHT HOURS Once just somewhere to kill time during a layover, the Lion City has reinvented itself as a destination in its own right. A melting pot of Asian cultures, the bustling city-state is a foodie's heaven and you could easily spend your entire holiday stuffing your face. In fact, that's exactly what we suggest you do — plan your itinerary around food and fill time between meals with a few of the city's top attractions. Of course, Singapore offers a lot beyond incredible food. For a slice of nature, head to the stunning Botanic Gardens, Singapore's first UNESCO World Heritage site, or spend hours wandering around the Bukit Timah Naturae Reserve. And don't miss the Singapore Zoo — the only place in the world where you can have breakfast with an orangutang family (really). Of course, no trip to Singapore is complete without a little shopping: for the best retail therapy, head straight to Orchard Road, which boasts 22 (!) shopping malls and six department stores. For a good home base, book a room at the stunning Park Royal — it's surrounded by the city's beautiful greenery. EAT: WAKU GHIN Seafood is the focus at Waku Ghin, a Singaporean restaurant by Tetsuya Waduka (of the legendary Sydney Japanese restaurant Tetsuya's). Save up and sit down for a degustation in a stunning, fine dining restaurant within the Marina Bay Sands hotel — which overlooks the Singapore bay. Cocktails and sake options are just as innovative as the food. While Singapore is home to many upscale restaurants, make like the locals and eat at the city's hawker centres, where you can sample the city's iconic dishes without burning a hole in your wallet. For the best Hainanese chicken rice, look no further than Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle in the Chinatown Complex hawker market. Other musts are chilli crab (head to Palm Beach Seafood Restaurant for this) and nasi biryani (Tekka Centre for South Indian cuisine serves up some of the city's best). OAHU, HAWAII FLIGHT TIME: NINE HOURS If you like your beach holidays with a generous helping of non-beach activities, you'll fall head over heels for Oahu. Hawaii's most populous island offers laid-back island living on its eastern and northern shores and the bustle of urban life in the capital Honolulu. What's not to love? Start by checking in and blissing out at The Royal Hawaiian hotel, then spend a few days on iconic Waikiki Beach, where you can snorkel, swim, or learn to surf during the day and relax over a few drinks and nibbles at night. To enjoy Oahu from a different vantage point, hike up Diamond Head crater for epic views over the island. For a more challenging climb, try the Olomana hike: your efforts will be rewarded with striking panoramic vistas. Make time to catch one of the island's legendary sunsets from the aptly-named Sunset Beach. Then, it's time to head to the North Shore. If you're an advanced surfer, you'll know this corner of the island is famous for its giant waves. Once you've worked up an appetite, feast at one (or a few) of the many food trucks or tiny restaurants that dot the area. Make sure to try the iconic poke (Pupukea Grill serves up particularly tasty bowls) or shrimp from Giovanni's Shrimp Truck, which has become something of a local institution. EAT: PEACE CAFE Maybe Honolulu's only vegan restaurant, Peace is located in a tranquil, tropical cottage in Honolulu. They serve up delicious sandwiches, sweets and lunchboxes made with organic vegetables and local ingredients. Pick up a healthy Vietnamese tofu or teriyaki tempeh sandwich for sustenance before heading off on a hike. Become an Expedia+ member and book your summer holiday — you'll have access to prices that others don't see.
Alaska Projects, the artist-run space nestled inside a parking lot, will be hosting Conor O'Shea's Repeat/Patterns exhibition starting Wednesday, April 30. A recent graduate from Sydney's National Art School, O'Shea has previously contributed to a number of group shows and exhibited as part of the Damien Minton Gallery's Graceland with the late Martin Sharp. O'Shea's Repeat/Pattern doesn't exhibit individual artworks but rather is one entire body of work. Intended to be viewed as a visual essay, O'Shea's exhibition features images of planets, lights and universal forms against a wall of patterned houndstooth. Repeat/Pattern will transform Alaska Projects into one enormous optical illusion of sorts, with his paintings, silkscreen and photographic prints as well as a projection and single wall graphic. Head there from 6pm on Wednesday, April 30.
So, you've always wanted to explore Australia, but keep jetting off overseas instead. Or, maybe you like the idea of travelling more than actually doing it. For anyone keen to experience destinations they haven't yet visited — and for those that are happy enough to pretend that they're on holiday instead of hopping on a plane — virtual reality offers a solution. And, with their new VR app, Qantas is jumping on that bandwagon. Fresh from announcing that they're closing in on non-stop flights between Australia and Europe, the airline has released their next attempt to change travelling as we know it. Courtesy of 13 immersive 360-degree videos, you can now enjoy everything from a world-first virtual fly over of Uluru to diving at the Great Barrier Reef off Hamilton Island. Heading to Sydney's VIVID, climbing the Harbour Bridge, taking a sunset river cruise through Kakadu National Park, and discovering the spectacular sights and inhabitants of Ormiston Gorge — they're all on the agenda (and once you've felt just like you're there, Qantas is clearly hoping that you'll book a real trip). You can also glide in a hot air balloon over Alice Springs and sail to Whitehaven Beach as part of your virtual tour of the country. Additional content showcasing other locations will be rolled out over the coming weeks, so if you've caught the VR travel bug, your journey is just beginning. And while the Qantas VR app is currently available on iPhone, Android, Samsung Gear VR, Oculus Rift and HTC Vive devices, don't stress if you don't have the requisite headwear — you can also watch in 2D mode on your phone.
Overnight, Jimmy Fallon lived out every '90s kid's dream — he danced with the Fresh Prince. Oh yeah, and he hosted his first Tonight Show, inducting him into late night history forever. But who's to say which makes him more successful? The Tonight Show is a big deal, and some still had their doubts about Fallon. Even after proving himself as a host for five years on Late Night, many just couldn't shake that first impression of him as the baby-faced goofball who screwed up every SNL skit by laughing. (Seriously, he even laughed through Will Ferrell's classic cowbell scene). In last night's show, Fallon played up this doubt in a clever bit about celebrities making $100 bets against him even making it to the Tonight Show. Cue appearances by Robert DeNiro, Tina Fey, Lady Gaga, Mariah Carey (WHAT?), Joan Rivers, Seth Rogen and a spiteful Stephen Colbert. But, after an emotional opening monologue and a solid first show, it's clear Leno's legacy is in good hands. With his backing band, The Roots, travelling over from Late Night, it's been clear for awhile now that Fallon loves himself some hip hop. We saw it at the end of last year too when Justin Timberlake came by for a duo in the History of Rap. This was reinforced further with last night's show, as Will Smith dropped in for an excellent demonstration of the Evolution of Hip Hop Dancing. Pulling moves like 'the running man', 'the pop and lock', 'the MC Hammer' and 'the I'm about to breakdance', Fallon showed he's not scared to bring some fresh ideas to the much-coveted show. He even finished it off with a twerk. I doubt Leno would have ever pulled that off.
After the Sydney Opera House replaced its Festival of Dangerous Ideas with Antidote last year, we didn't think we'd see it again. But the festival will rear its head for its ninth iteration, this time trading in its Bennelong Point digs for a space on Cockatoo Island. Co-founded by The Ethics Centre (TEC) and the Sydney Opera House back in 2009, FODI 2018 won't just have a new venue, but a new partner as well — teaming up with the UNSW Centre for Ideas for the first time. But the concept will remain the same, again bringing together thought leaders and creative thinkers for a weekend of critical discussion around the most important global issues of today. While the program has not yet been revealed, we do know that this year's festival will specifically examine themes of trust and truth, and will again aim to incite debate, push boundaries and inspire intellectual freedom. Previous years have seen discussion topics like 'open the borders', 'let banks fail', 'a foetus is not a person' and 'the end of men', with a focus on themes of asylum, gender, justice and race — to name a few. "Knowing who to trust and what to believe has never been so complicated," says co-founder Danielle Harvey. "FODI has a legacy of exploring polarising ideas and making bold curatorial choices. These dangerous conversations are even more critical when truth and clarity are hard to find." Longstanding FODI curator Simon Longstaff will again be at the helm of the program. In the past, he has signed on high profile though leaders like activist Alicia Garcia (founder of the #BlackLivesMatter movement), feminist protest punk band Pussy Riot, international journalist Mona Eltahawy, political activist Tariq Ali and WikiLeaks' Julian Assange. Based on that, it's fair to expect another big list of names for 2018 — we'll keep you updated as the program is unveiled. The 2018 Festival of Dangerous Ideas is coming to Cockatoo Island on November 3 and 4. Tickets will go on sale in August and you can sign up here to get first dibs.
Dee Why is a sporting beach through and through. It's the site of the annual Ocean Thunder Surfboat competition and was once home to major surfing comp Beachley Classic. Essentially, it's a beach set up for those who want to get active. Just next to it is Long Reef Beach, with the two stretches of sand separated by a shallow lagoon, so there's heaps of space. You'll even find an outdoor table tennis spot, so you don't even need to bring any equipment to get competitive with your crew. There's also a playground for obstacle course-style games as well as barbecues for post-game feasts. Image: Destination NSW
When Wollongong's Yours and Owls last took place back in April 2021, it ticked a couple of huge pandemic-era boxes. Due to COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions, it was the first major music festival that New South Wales had seen in over a year — and it was the first to allow dancing as well. Plenty has happened in NSW over the past seven months, including more lockdowns and restrictions; however, the fact that Yours and Owls is announcing its 2022 plans today, Wednesday, November 10, really couldn't be more fitting. Just two days ago, NSW's rules for double-vaccinated folks eased again, and now permit dancing once more — so this two-day fest has revealed who you'll be making shapes to in Stuart Park from Saturday, April 2–Sunday, April 3. Topping the bill: Hilltop Hoods, Benee, Bliss & Eso, Flight Facilities, The Jungle Giants, Peking Duk and Violent Soho, giving festival-goers quite the array of big-name acts to look forward to. And yes, you should've spotted that Benee will be making the trip from New Zealand, thanks to international border restrictions easing. The hefty lineup goes on, including Faker, Ruby Fields, San Cisco, The Meanies, Sycco and more. Yours and Owls' 2022 fest is moving to a bigger site, too — well, back to a familiar site — both in terms of space, and being able to accommodate more people. Yes, that's your early April plans sorted — and because you're here for the full lineup, you can check out the details below. YOURS AND OWLS 2022 LINEUP: Hilltop Hoods Benee Bliss & Eso Flight Facilities The Jungle Giants Peking Duk Violent Soho (The Return Of) Faker Harvey Sutherland Jack River Lastlings Late Nite Tuff Guy LDRU Luca Brasi Hiatus Kaiyote Ruby Fields San Cisco Arno Faraji Barkaa Big Twisty & The Funknasty Budjerah The Bouys Fergus James Floodlights Hope D Jen Cloher Karate Boogaloo King Stingray The Meanies Miiesha Ninajirachi Nyxen Private Function Surprise Chef Sycco The Terrys Vlossom 1300 Alter Boy Babitha Bakers Eddy Boom Child Caitlin Harnett & The Pony Boys Clamm Clypso C.O.F.F.I.N Death By Denim Good Lekker Nooky Rest For The Wicked The Rions Shady Nasty Sophiya To Octavia Amends Bored Shorts Charbel Chimers Chloe Dadd Classic Club Camel Drift Hellcat Speedracer Imaginary People Kitten Heel Lizzie Jack & The Beanstalks Miners The Morning Mood Nosedive Nothing Rhymes With David Placement Private Wives Proposal Radicals Satin Cali Sesame Girl Solo Career Stephen Bourke Topnovil L N T G Jennifer Loveless Toni Yotzi Ayebatonye DJ Plead Barney In The Tunnel Foura Body Promise Randy Knuckles Cover Sound System Beachcombers Wilder & Pryor Yours and Owls will take place on Saturday, April 2 and Sunday, April 3 at Stuart Park, Wollongong. Ticket pre-sales will kick off at 8.30am AEDT on Tuesday, November 16, with general tickets on sale at 8.30am on Thursday, November 18. For more information about the event, head to the festival's website.
Calling all architecture aficionados and design devotees — if you secretly nerd out on blueprints, buildings and basically all things construction, then you'll want to check out Sydney Open. Presented by Sydney Living Museums, this annual architecture event is set to spill out across suburbs from the harbour to Parramatta River on the first weekend in November. Take your pick from over 35 expert-led Focus Tours ($30–60), starting from 9am on Saturday, November 5. Discover the secrets and stories of over 50 of the most iconic spaces across both the CBD and Greater Sydney — including for the first time, Parramatta. Or, grab a City Pass (from $39) for Sunday, November 6. This multi-venue ticket gives you access to explore more than 25 buildings across the CBD at your own pace. Go contemporary and check out Quay Quarter Tower and 50 Martin Place, or lose yourself in the history and heritage of Government House and the Anzac Memorial. As a bonus, book your City Pass by Thursday, October 20 for the chance to win a Golden Ticket that'll unlock a range of exclusive experiences — including a luxurious night's stay and dinner at the Kimpton Margot Sydney. Sydney Open hits the city on Saturday, November 5 and Sunday, November 6. For more information and to book your tickets head to the website.
It's that time of year, somehow. Christmas is fast approaching, winter has well and truly fallen by the wayside, and you're probably thinking about your summer shenanigans. While jetting overseas still isn't an option for Australians at the moment, you can make plans to roam around much of this country we all come home now that borders are reopening — and, if you'd like to head up to the Northern Territory, its government wants to give you an extra incentive. As part of the NT Summer Sale campaign — which launched at the beginning of October — the NT Government and its tourism body are offering discounts on trips to Australia's red centre and top end. To all of the Northern Territory, actually. For each $1000 you spend up to $5000, you'll receive a $200 discount. It maxes out at $1000 off, but that's still 20-percent off the price. The discounts are available for a number of things too — covering plenty of essential elements of every holiday. You can use them on flights, accommodation, tours and attractions, and vehicle hire. You will need to both book and travel between now and March 31, 2020, however. The other big stipulation: you'll need to book through one of Tourism NT's campaign partners to score the discount. They include retailers such as Holidays of Australia, Helloworld Travel & Viva Holidays, and Flight Centre. [caption id="attachment_785574" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Tourism Australia[/caption] If you've always been meaning to make the trip — and you've had both Uluru and its incredible Field of Light installation on your must-see list for ages — here's a mighty fine excuse to put those dreams into action. Border-wise, the NT currently doesn't require interstate visitors to quarantine unless you've been in a declared hotspot in the 14 days prior to your arrival — which, at the time of writing, only covers a number of Local Government Areas in Victoria. It's best to keep an eye on the NT Government's coronavirus hub, though, for any future changes, For further details about the NT Summer Sale campaign — which is available for travel between now and March 31, 2020 — head to the Tourism NT website. Top image: Field of Light: Bruce Munro. Photo by Mark Pickthall
If you're a seasoned traveller (or at least you were pre-COVID-19) you've almost certainly run into an e-scooter. The speedy transportation option has overtaken streets in the US, Europe and, closer to home, in Melbourne and Brisbane. Here in Sydney, however, the electric scooter is few and far between. Under current NSW road rules, electric scooters are prohibited from being ridden on the road. While this hasn't stopped e-scooter retailers like WalkSmart opening stores in Sydney, riders could be issued fines and the legislation has prohibited street rental organisations like Lime, Beam and Neuron bringing their scooters to Sydney. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, in 2019, eight Sydney councils were in discussions with the NSW Government about hosting e-scooter trials that would see the ban temporarily lifted. These trials never came to be, despite multiple subsequent reports in support of e-scooters. One report conducted by the Electric Scooter Advisory Working Group (ESA) for Transport for NSW in March 2020 recommended a six-month trial of e-scooters in bike lanes and on shared paths. Similarly, an August 2020 report by the National Transport Commission recommended e-scooters be permitted on most pedestrian infrastructure with a ten kilometre per hour speed limit. Following months of silence from the NSW Government on the proposed trials, or any planned legalisation of e-scooters, the NSW Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance was pressed on the issue during the 2020/21 Budget Estimate inquiry on Thursday, February 25. When asked if the electric scooter trial had been abandoned, Constance replied that it had been put "on hold" and that he was "not in the mood" to run an e-scooter trial in NSW at this time. [caption id="attachment_802481" align="alignnone" width="1920"] NSW Minster for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance by John Cowper[/caption] One reason cited for the minister's hesitation towards running the trial was issues faced by other cities that had legalised electric scooters. When pressed further on what these issues are, Mr Constance said: "people getting killed, e-scooters being left up trees, e-scooters littering parks and footpaths, people falling over them. I can send you a bunch of pictures if you want." While NSW continues to wait for regulated e-scooters to arrive in the state, leading e-scooter company Lime's e-bike sharing services have been operational in the Sydney since 2018, with bike sharing services a part of the city since back in 2017. E-scooters are currently illegal in NSW.
When Super Mario Kart first rolled onto Super Nintendo consoles back in 1992, it came with 20 inventive courses and endless hours of fun. 26 years later, and the game isn't just speeding through desert tracks and rainbow roads — but onto the real-life streets, and now Google Maps. Because zooming Mario Kart-style through Tokyo wasn't enough, or bringing the IRL concept to Australia either, you can now spend the next week getting navigational directions from everyone's favourite cartoon plumber. Plus, he'll not only pop-up on the app, but as you drive along the road, he'll drive along with you on Maps — in celebration of Mario Day, which is March 10 (or MAR 10). [caption id="attachment_659698" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Google Maps[/caption] Anyone keen to take a drive with Mario simply needs to update their Maps app, then look for a question mark-shaped box that resembles a block from Super Mario Brothers. That's all there is to it — and it's not quite as fun as being able to actually play Mario Kart on Google Maps, like their Pac-Man April Fool's Day update a few years back, but it'll probably make you look up directions more often than you actually need over the next seven days. It goes without saying, but you you should still be watching the road as you drive — and not Mario on your phone, as cute as the gimmick may be. How else are you going to keep your eyes peeled for bananas, shells or gold coins? Via Google Maps.
A bustling little corner of lunchtime and late-night activity in Bondi, Mamasan is Moulin Rouge-meets-1920s Shanghai. Pull up a plush seat in your very own Bondi opium den and start ogling the menu, a tempting fusion of Taiwanese street food and Japanese deliciousness — the chef grew up in Taiwan before living in Japan. Alternatively, you can perch at the bar and let the bartenders talk you through the excellent sake, whisky and Japanese plum wine lists. Try them straight or in a signature cocktail. Like the Jap Dak, a twist on the daiquiri, with Okinawa Rum Rebellion Shochu, cloudy Aragoshi Umushu plum wine and fresh lime juice; or the Japanese Penicillin, with 12-year-old Yamasaki whisky, ginger, lemongrass and honey. Drop by on Sundays for the Mamasan markets, where Asia-inspired artists and designers put their wares on display. And keep an ear out for live jazz gigs, which happen every now and again.
If you're a fan of Australian-made streetwear and indulging in pop-culture nostalgia — and who isn't? — then we've just found your new summer threads. Melbourne label HoMie has teamed up with Disney on a 90s-style range that's decked out with the Mouse House's beloved animated characters, with the 18-piece collection of t-shirts, shorts, hoodies and socks set to hit the brand's online store from Tuesday, November 16. It's a whole new world of nostalgia for your wardrobe — and while the HoMie and Friends range is clearly excellent news for Disney lovers, it's even better news for young people affected by homelessness or hardship. When the collection goes on sale, HoMie will donate 100-percent of the profits to the worthy cause. The label's first-ever range with Disney, HoMie and Friends is designed to offer a bright and retro way to embrace the warmer weather, too — especially after the chaotic year that's been 2021. "This collection organically grew from wanting to produce a range that focuses heavily on fun, positivity and friendship after what has been a really difficult time for people," said HoMie co-founder and Creative Director Marcus Crook. "We wanted the range to be fun to wear, so you will find lots of bright colours, bold prints, premium embroidery and, my personal favourite — the matching sets." The collection includes vibrant pink t-shirts emblazoned with Minnie Mouse's face, peach-hued hoodies featuring everyone from Donald Duck to Mickey Mouse, and other old school-leaning designs that draw upon Disney's OG stable of animated characters — such as a lime-green Goofy shirt, and both pastel blue and aqua-coloured Mickey combos. The whole collection is gender neutral, and sizing spans from XS to 3XL. The HoMie and Friends range will be available online from Tuesday, November 16 — head to HoMie's website for further details.
Interpersonal relationships are all about compromise. I'll cook, you clean. I'll be designated driver this weekend, you can do it next weekend. Still, quite possibly the biggest source of compromise – or conflict – is choosing where to go for dinner. Fortunately for residents of and visitors to south Sydney, this is all about to change. The culprit? Highfield Caringbah, the Sutherland Shire's first "vertical pub", offering up a bevy of themes and dining options under one roof. With their newest offering, the Feros Group have quite literally built on the success of Ugly Pizza and Huxley's Sports Bar. Both existing venues remain on the ground floor at the MacKay street site, with new venues The Public House and The Botanical opening up top. No-fuss joint Ugly pumps out its New York-style pizzas for dine in or takeaway. Huxley's, meanwhile, serves as a shrine to the USA, offering up diner staples – burgers, hot dogs, mac'n'cheese – to an overlapping soundtrack of American sports playing on dozens of TVs. On the middle floor, The Public House sticks to standard Aussie pub traditions: a TAB, domestic and craft beers on tap, and a menu featuring good old schnitties and steaks. And if you're looking to add a touch of elegance to the evening, rooftop hangout The Botanical offers a dedicated cocktail bar, a living green wall and food prepared on a Japanese-style Robata grill — not to mention spectacular views of the city skyline. Find Highfield Caringbah at 22-24 MacKay Street, Caringbah. For more information, visit their website.
'Wine' and 'festival': they're two words that almost always lead to happy times for you and your gang. The Strategem Bendigo Winemakers Festival will return come Saturday, April 6, and with it comes a celebration of the region's food and wine. Local winemakers will engulf the town centre — Rosalind Park to be precise — for five hours of alfresco fun. Over 60 different wines will be on show for you to sample, so grab a glass, have a chat to the winemakers and do a big collective 'cheers' to the end of the harvest. Remember to pace yourself (small sips, not big gulps) and that eating isn't cheating — there'll be plenty of food stalls to keep you plugging along wholesomely. There'll also be live music from The Deans and The Funk Junkies and competitions running all day. You can BYO picnic rug or, if you're feeling ritzy, nab a private VIP marquee for $750. It'll get you and eleven mates entry to the festival (with a souvenir wine glass and complimentary wine tastings), access to the special private digs all day and a 30-minute private wine masterclass with a Bendigo region winemaker. Strategem Bendigo Winemakers Festival will run from 11am–4pm on Saturday, April 6. Tasting tickets start at $45, which includes a souvenir wine glass and complimentary wine tastings. Non-tasting tickets are available from $25. For more information and to purchase tickets, head this way.
Dust off your skinny jeans. In news that we hope doesn't trigger memories of the era of Sydney's lockout laws, legendary DJ collective Bang Gang is returning to Club 77 this month. The Friday night party starters are returning to the subterranean Darlinghurst club to help it celebrate its 28th year. The Sydney-born collective that helped define a generation of dance floors is reuniting for the first time in over ten years, and they'll be taking over their spiritual home for one massive night on Friday, May 16. It's part of a month-long birthday program for 77 that brings together past legends, rising selectors and the club's own residents, in a celebration of the past and future of Sydney's club culture. Some context for younger readers: Friday nights in the 2000s were ruled by Bang Gang. Known for their high-energy sets and bold selections, the crew made Club 77 ground zero for Sydney's early-internet-era electro scene, and came to embody the sound and spirit of a generation. "It gives me this kind of excitement that's hard to explain — not nervous or anxious, just that fuck-me-this-moment-can't-come-soon-enough kind of excitement," shares Bang Gang member Dangerous Dan ahead of the upcoming gig. "The Club 77 crowd has always been there for one reason — to dance. It's dark, it's loud, and you can't really talk much anyway. But they know what's up. That's my favourite kind of crowd." Sydney — indeed, the world — looked very different when Club 77 first opened its doors in 1997. The club stared down lockouts, lockdowns, licensing crackdowns and the ever-fluctuating tides of the city's live music and nightlife scene. These days, it's where you'll find some of the sharpest programming in the city, and May's stacked birthday lineup proves it: alongside Bang Gang, you can catch returning heroes like Phil Smart, Robbie Lowe and Dreems, as well as next-gen selectors like Mowgli, Deepa, Ciara, Aquenta, DJ D.Dee and more. Whether you were around for the Bang Gang days or are part of the newer set keeping the party going, this month presents a rare opportunity to experience a slice of Sydney nightlife history in one of the city's most iconic nightlife destinations. All of Club 77's birthday events are free to enter with guest list registration before midnight, and $25 thereafter. To sign up for the guest list and to check out the full program, head to the Club 77 website. Top image: Benjamin Weser.
In news as exciting as a slice of Wensleydale cheese, the minds behind the world's favourite dairy-eating man and his dog are coming to Melbourne. With the Australian Centre for the Moving Image hosting an exhibition dedicated to Wallace & Gromit, Aardman Animations, and their broader catalogue of film and TV highlights, company co-founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton are heading our way for a series of events and workshops. If you're keen, make like a chicken and run to grab tickets. In town to launch Wallace & Gromit and friends: The magic of Aardman, the duo will ensure that attendees don't just have a grand day as they peruse more than 350 Aardman items, and celebrate over 40 years of close shaves and wrong trousers — they'll have a grand evening too. The appropriately titled A Night Out with Aardman on June 30 is the main attraction, with the Lord and Sproxton (Aardman's creative director and executive chairman, respectively) taking audiences through their careers, chatting about highlights, showing clips, sharing stories and revealing what inspires them. If you're in the industry, they'll also take part in a claymation-focused masterclass on June 29, hosted by Aussie Mary and Max and Harvie Krumpet animator Adam Elliot, while Lord will also oversee a hands-on workshop for 25 emerging animators on July 1. And, for those that really fancy their chances of following in their footsteps, ACMI is putting together an Inventors of Melbourne event on August 5 for everyone with innovative ideas. Lord and Sproxton won't be there — they'll be back home chasing were-rabbits and mischievous sheep named Shaun by then — but plenty of inventors, entrepreneurs and researchers will be. The four-month exhibition also includes a complete cinema retrospective of Aardman's features, so expect to get Flushed Away, get festive with Arthur Christmas and take to the seas with The Pirates! Band of Misfits too. Lord wrote the former and directed the latter (and wrote and directed Chicken Run as well), and Sproxton produced the lot. Forget popcorn — bringing your own slab of cheddar seems like the right thing to do. Wallace & Gromit and friends: The magic of Aardman will be showing at Melbourne's ACMI from June 29 to October 29. To buy tickets to the exhibition or any of the special events, visit the ACMI website.
The pandemic has changed much about travel over the past year and a half, including the way that Australians approach roaming throughout our own country. Booking a ticket to another state or territory is no longer something we all just do whenever we feel like without checking the rules, restrictions and requirements first — because closed domestic borders will do that. But with New South Wales and Victoria both progressing through their roadmaps for reopening following both states' respective (and lengthy) lockdowns, venturing a bit further around the country might soon become a little easier. Exactly what domestic border limits will remain in place, and where, hasn't yet been revealed; however, Qantas and Jetstar have announced that they'll start ramping up their flights around the country anyway. Firstly, the two airlines will increase flights regionally within NSW, starting from Monday, October 25. That's around when the state is expected to hit the 80-percent double-dose vaccination mark, which is when travel throughout NSW will be permitted again. Next, Qantas and Jetstar have brought forward the start date for trips between NSW and Victoria. Instead of recommencing in December, these flights will now resume on Friday, November 5. [caption id="attachment_823330" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brent Winstone[/caption] So, if you're a Sydneysider eager to escape the city — either within NSW or to Victoria, you're about to have options. For Melburnians, heading north will be possible as well. Obviously, this all depends on the rules both states put in place regarding travel between them, because that's the world we now live in. The airlines haven't changed their flights between Western Australia, Tasmania, Northern Territory and South Australia just yet, though, with trips to WA still remaining sparse for the foreseeable future due to its strict border arrangements all throughout the pandemic. The two carriers won't restart legs from WA to Victoria and NSW (and vice versa) until at least February 1, 2022 for that reason, other than the five return flights it's doing from Perth to both Sydney and Melbourne at the moment for folks with permits — but it's hoping to increase flights between Queensland and WA in the coming weeks. No matter where you live, expect to see a few incentives popping up trying to tempt you to holiday in certain parts of the country. The Northern Territory is doing discounts of up to $1000 for fully vaxxed folks who head to the NT from spots that aren't deemed hotspots, for instance, and there's also $250 tour vouchers up for grabs in Queensland's tropical north. For more information about Qantas and Jetstar's increased domestic flights as NSW and Victoria reopen, head to the Qantas and Jetstar websites.
We are all well aware of the pervasive effect social media has on our lives in terms of connecting, conversing and sharing with others on an unprecedented scale. Yet there are a whole myriad of other uses that social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter provide, which can have immensely positive effects. Take a look at a few valuable uses for social media sites that you probably didn't expect. 1. Mapping Infectious Diseases Graham Dodge founded a cunning website called Sickweather which ingeniously uses Facebook and Twitter updates to track infectious diseases. Unlike Google Flu Trends, which launched in 2010 and is based off people's searches, Sickweather can actually track the occurrence and locations of specific ailments. Dodge is also optimistic that through the use of event schedules, travel and weather patterns and environmental data, social media will be able to predict the spread of diseases. He has already noted pertinent trends of the spread of disease throughout America, and now hopes to win a $21,000 prize in a government-sponsored competition for a new app, which uses Twitter to warn us about public health issues. So next time you feel a cough creeping up on you, do us all a public service and tweet about it. 2. Helping the Homeless find Equality A study conducted by the University of Dayton has discovered that Facebook provides a refuge for homeless people by making them feel more equal. Everyone on Facebook is equipped with the same services and benefits, whether that be liking, commenting, messaging or uploading photos. This, and the fact that people can't smell if they didn't shower yesterday, or even know that they are homeless, which, says one of the subjects of the study, makes them feel accepted. Facebook is also important in helping them establish community networks, and helping solve practical issues such as where to find social services, a meal or shelter. 3. Tracking Public Opinion Topsy released a new political index last week called Topsy Pro Analytics whereby we can use Twitter to gauge public opinion by searching particular topics or hashtags. The complex technology delves into two years of data from Twitter feeds and is updated in real time. The mass number of results from the search not only reveal the frequency and number of tweets about a topic over time, but it also measures the tone and actual content of the tweets and who is conversing most about it. 4. Getting Your Voice Heard Thunderclap is a new site, which allows users to send out a message. Once enough people tweet it or post it on Facebook (at this stage 500 messages over 5 days) the site reaches its threshold and all the updates are sent out at once. This not only increases the chance of the message becoming a trending topic on Twitter but it also increases chances of people seeing multiple updates on Facebook and paying more attention to it. The tool could be a dream for non-profit organisations and the like to help amplify their message. 5. Educating Conservative Cultures about Sex Social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube are transforming the way youth consume their media, even in developing nations such as Ethiopia, Mozambique or Indonesia. Social media is also a great tool in educating young people about safe sex practices and the importance of condoms. Through Facebook pages, Twitter feeds and YouTube videos younger audiences can learn about condom use without the embarrassment of their parent's presence and remain anonymous if they wish to. Through these social media platforms it is significantly easier for youth in these lesser developed countries to access information about HIV protection and family planning and chat about sensitive issues. 6. Engaging a 3000 Student Class The thought of teaching a 3000 strong student cohort would surely be enough to plague any teacher or lecturer with terrible nightmares. But John Boyer at Virginia Tech seems to find this massive class a piece of cake. Boyer introduced a novel system of 'gaming principles' by which students can rack up points to determine their notes. On top of this, Boyer poses regular questions on Facebook and Twitter for his students to respond to and also holds office hours using instant messaging on Ustream so he can respond to his many pupils in real time. Skype is also utilised to host interviews with important figures in global issues, such as Kony2012 creator Jason Russel, or a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate. 7. Sharing your Organ Donor Status Facebook has introduced a new status option in the United States and United Kingdom which allows users to proclaim their organ donor status. By openly advertising in their biographical information that one is willing to be or already is a registered organ donor, doctors and advocacy group leaders believe that this will have a domino effect and encourage many others to sign up to be an organ donor. As well as this, being able to view it on Facebook would most likely hasten the decision and make it easier for family members to approve their loved one's donation. The company is looking to expand the tool to other countries in the coming months.
For your next Netflix binge, the streaming platform isn't simply suggesting its latest must-see series — it's also telling you what you should be eating. Crack out the tortillas, start marinating some meat and whip up a bit of guacamole, because it's taco time. No mere mortal can sit down to watch a show about this Mexican dish without devouring a whole plate of them, after all. Called Las Crónicas del Taco in Spanish and Taco Chronicles in English, the new series fittingly stems from Netflix's Latin American division. Also unsurprisingly, the show is an ode a meal that's beloved not only in its country of origin, but the world over. Expect to learn more about the versatile tortilla, including its immense cultural significance. And expect to start craving the many different varieties of tacos, too, such as pastor, carnitas, canasta, asada, barbacoa and guisados. Ample gushing about the dish is part of the package — this is a show made for taco lovers, by taco lovers — as is a feast of taco visuals. As any fan of food-focused documentaries already knows oh-so-well, viewing this multi-part effort on an empty stomach is not recommended. Taco Chronicles does boast Javier Cabral among its behind-the-scenes team, with the culinary writer acting as an associate producer and 'taco scout'. The series' English-language trailer is only available on Netflix itself, but if you can speak Spanish — or fancy looking at a whole heap of tacos anyway — Netflix Latin America's unsubtitled clip is below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2qist_IxZI The first season of Taco Chronicles is now streaming on Netflix. Updated: August 12, 2019.
Chat Thai is the worst kept secret amongst Thai people living in Sydney. With a focus on street food and dishes that are meant to be for Thai palates only, Chat Thai was meant to be a Thai person's Thai restaurant. But when you do the mainstay favourites so well, and at very, very reasonable prices, it's inevitable that the cat will get out of the bag. If you want to try something new, we recommend you sample the tom saap — a hot and sour soup with braised pork ribs. But for those who are less adventurous, the chilli fried rice, padt si-ew or ki mao are excellent. Chat Thai also has five varieties of som tum (green papaya salad), which embodies the balance between the salty, sweet, sour and spicy elements Thai cuisine is known for. For the uninitiated, start with the som tum thai and venture onto the pickled crab or fermented fish variants when feeling brave. Also, remember to specify your level of spiciness because the default is often too hot for most. You have been warned. To drink, it would be hard not have Thai milk tea with cha dam yem — a tea on the sweet end of the spectrum that's hard to resist. And do note that if you arrive during the dinner rush, expect to wait at least 45 minutes or longer for a table. Try and get in early and they might be able to offer you dishes still made from the lunch menu as well.
In Stay of the Week, we explore some of the world's best and most unique accommodations, giving you a little inspiration for your text trip. In this instalment, we highlight the Gili Beach Resort located on Indonesia's Gili Trawangan island. If you're itching to get away and ready to book an island holiday now, on Concrete Playground Trips we have a fabulous lineup of deals on great stays across Indonesia and packages on incredible Bali getaways that you can't find anywhere else. WHAT'S SO SPECIAL? This accommodation is made for big groups of people looking to experience laid-back (but still pretty damn luxurious) island living, without spending exorbitant amounts of money. THE ROOMS Both multi-level timber villas have four enormous bedrooms — each with extra-large double beds, ensuites and balconies overlooking the private pool and beach. You'll feel like you're living in a postcard when staying at this character-filled resort. And because there are only two villas on the property, you'll be getting brilliant service from the staff. You'll also have your own fully-kitted-out kitchen with a few indoor and outdoor dining areas (including tables and chairs right on the beach). There are also multiple spots made just for lounging – either choose the pool, the beach or one of the terraces. Roll from one spot to the other during a lazy day of drinking, eating, napping and sunning yourself. FOOD AND DRINK The staff at Gili Beach Resort will greet you every morning with a big breakfast, and the restaurant next door will also deliver to your door all day long. This restaurant is known to be incredibly good and the French chef serves up an ever-changing menu but the focus is — unsurprisingly — all about the fish of the day dishes at this island haunt. But that's not all. On your first night at Gili Beach Resort, you get an epic BBQ and private bonfire made for you by their team — they go above and beyond when it comes to service. They'll even help you with your grocery list and enlist a horse-pulled cart to help you manage a big shop (there are no motor vehicles on this island so all transport is either man or animal powered). THE LOCAL AREA The resort is located on the quieter side of Gili Trawangan, one of Indonesia's three Gili islands. These small islands are best known for their sandy beaches lined with large trees and the coral reefs full of colourful marine life. It's not unusual to find turtles swimming in front of your villa (with snorkelling equipment available to guests too). You're also fairly close to town – either a short walk or an even shorter bike ride (also provided as part of your stay). Find a local beach bar or restaurant for sunset and enjoy great Indonesian cuisine and inexpensive but powerful cocktails. Alternatively, you can go hiking up into the forests and get some unbeatable views of the surrounding islands or walk around to quieter beaches to find your own remote paradise. Whatever you're up for, the incredibly accommodating staff will make it happen for you. THE EXTRAS For small additional costs, the team at Gili Beach Resort will bring just about any brilliant experience right to you. They'll organise massages on your balcony overlooking the sea, horseback rides along the coast and traditional Indonesian cooking classes in your own villa. The friendly and attentive service is one of the resort's most well-known traits. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
Two of magic's most outrageous luminaries take the spotlight for this romp through their unlikely rise to fame and their ultimately bloody fall. Their rags-to-riches story — escaping war-torn childhoods in Germany to become Vegas' highest-paid act — is one of entertainment's most remarkable tales, and through it all, Siegfried Fischbacher and Roy Horn were inseparable — romantic partners, closest confidants and each other's inspiration. However, their infamous casino residency brazenly toyed with tragedy as they took to the stage each night with their pet adult male white tiger Mantacore — a decision that would eventually prove to be wildly misguided. A Sydney Festival exclusive, this hilarious new opera, created by composer Luke Di Somma and director Constantine Costi with costumes by Tim Chappel, features powerhouse vocals from Kanen Breen and Christopher Tonkin, live magic and a helluva lot of Vegas-level razzle-dazzle.
As Australia, along with the rest of the world, battles to contain COVID-19, many of us are spending more time indoors than ever before. Now, with federal restrictions looking to be in place for at least another four weeks, it's likely you'll have to find new ways to stay entertained (and get a little creative). By now, you've probably binged a fair bit of Netflix, maybe signed up for a free TAFE course, completed a 1000-piece puzzle and looked into how to upskill from your couch. Not to mention baked a bunch of bread and ordered numerous cocktails from your favourite Sydney bars. All these are great. But now, if you're feeling everything is getting a tad tedious, it might be good to tap into your inner artist (or kindergartener) and play with paints. Seeing as you can't chuck on your apron and head into a studio, Redfern not-for-profit 107 Projects is now bringing the fun — and the paint — to you. Over the next three months, 107 Projects is offering an at-home version of its usual Art Somewhere initiative. The subscription service will see a surprise craft pack on your doorstep every two weeks, with some top Sydney creatives behind them — so don't just expect watercolour landscape sessions. One week you could be learning the art of calligraphy, the next embroidery or polymer clay. Each box will come with all the materials and tools you need to make a masterpiece. Plus, there's the option to add a six-pack of Mountain Goat craft beer to aid creativity, naturally, and you'll also receive tips on how to turn those tinnies into treasures. If you're keen to have a crafternoon (or few), you can sign up for the entire three months for $160 or $240 with beer; two months for $100 or $160; or one month for $60 or $90. You can also get a one-off box, which will set you back $30 or $50 with beer. All will be hand-delivered fortnightly if you're a Sydney local (see delivery zones here) or can be picked up from 107 Redfern Street or Green Square's Joynton Avenue Creative Centre. If you live outside the free delivery zone, 107 Projects can post packs (sans brews) to you for an additional $10. Check out the website for more information and to sign up. 107 Project's at-home Art Somewhere packs are now available to order, with the first box slated for delivery on Wednesday, May 6. Free delivery is available across a heap of Sydney suburbs, with $10 delivery fee outside those areas. Pick up is also available from 107 Redfern Street or Joynton Avenue Creative Centre. To check out subscription options and to sign up, head here.
