Keen to spend the game in some sports-loving company? Pull up a bar stool at the London — if they're not all already taken. Despite having scored a snazzy reno in recent years, this pub hasn't lost its down-to-earth character. In other words, you won't be the only fan shamelessly yelling at the big screen in between beers. The London broadcasts all Super Rugby, Wallabies and NRL matches live. On the menu is an array of hearty feeds — from share plates loaded with salmon and crab cakes ($21) to peking duck pizza ($24). Images: Katje Ford.
Half a century ago, one of the greatest science-fiction films of all time made its cinematic debut. It might hail from a genre filled with plenty of excellent flicks — both then and now — but 2001: A Space Odyssey still remains one of sci-fi's best and most iconic efforts. And, one of the best and most iconic movies ever made, too. With Stanley Kubrick at the helm, adapting Arthur C. Clarke's short story The Sentinel with the author himself, it's easy to see why. Really, this isn't your usual jaunt into space. It was a mindblowing, groundbreaking feat at the time — and come May 24, Sydney audiences will get the chance to watch the film in all of its original glory. While 2001: A Space Odyssey has remained a favourite pick for retrospective screenings around the city for years, the latest release will feature an 'unrestored' 70mm print of the movie — that is, it'll look just like it did 50 years ago. The version about to do the rounds was created using a true photochemical film recreation from the original camera negative without any digital tricks, remastered effects or new edits. After premiering at this year's Cannes Film Festival, it'll screen at the Hayden Orpheum for a limited two-week run, so you'd best open the pod bay doors, HAL, and hurry along. Update Wednesday, July 18: Due to the popularity of the initial screenings of 2001: A Space Odyssey, the Hayden Orpheum has announced it will be showing the sci-fi classic in its original 70mm form again this July. The film will be screened just twice more on Saturday, July 28 and Sunday, July 29 at 3pm.
Canberra is set to glow again as Enlighten Festival returns in 2026, transforming the capital into a city-wide playground of art, ideas and after-dark discovery. Running for 11 days from Friday, February 27 to Monday, March 9, the festival invites locals and visitors alike to explore Canberra in ways you normally wouldn't. Now in its 16th year, Enlighten delivers a packed program of world premieres, Canberra-firsts and large-scale experiences that tell Australian stories through art, exhibitions and immersive installations. At the heart of the festival are the Illuminations, the only time of year Canberra's national institutions unite to showcase monumental, original artworks across their facades. In 2026, architectural projections will light up the Australian Parliament House, the National Library of Australia, the National Gallery of Australia, Questacon, the National Portrait Gallery, and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. The lineup features works by celebrated artists Kaylene Whiskey, Yarrenyty Arltere Artists, Grace Kemarre Robinya, Sam Wallman, Philip Bunting, and Eleanor and Giovanni. After dark, Enlighten: The Night Shift unlocks Canberra's major institutions for unexpected late-night experiences. Think karaoke and live performances inside the Department of Memories at the Museum of Australian Democracy, free lantern-making at the National Archives, and degustation dining within the walls of Parliament House. The Festival Hub Artworks turn the National Triangle into an open-air gallery filled with immersive installations and roaming performances. World premieres, including Serendipity by Atelier Sisu and Glitch Monument by Collide Public Art, make their debut, alongside large-scale installations such as Whispers of Wonderment and Amorphia. Beyond the Triangle, Enlighten: BEYOND encourages audiences to venture further across the city, connecting Canberra's arts organisations, institutions, and local businesses through exhibitions, events, and pop-up experiences throughout the festival. One of the festival's standout moments is Symphony in the Park, a free, all-ages outdoor concert in Commonwealth Park. In 2026, Mark Seymour of Hunters & Collectors joins the Canberra Symphony Orchestra for world-premiere orchestral arrangements of classics, including Holy Grail and Throw Your Arms Around Me. Entry is free, but booking tickets is essential to secure your spot. The program is rounded out with events for those keen to dive deeper, from Luminous Ideas at Canberra Theatre Centre — featuring Jennifer Wong's FEAST — to the immersive digital exhibition Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius. Whether you're visiting Canberra for the first time or rediscovering your own backyard, Enlighten Festival 2026 is an invitation to wander, connect and see the city in a whole new light. Plan your trip to Enlighten Festival 2026 and see the program here.
Have you been practising your wine twirl? Do you know your tannins from your terroir? No? Well, study up. You'll need to impress the crowd at the biggest wine experience of the Easter weekend: Loose Lips, which is taking place in The Wine Bar at The International on Saturday, April 19, from 2-6pm. Organised by Joel Amos, the man behind DRNKS and Huge Moves, in collaboration with The Wine Bar Group's Director of Food and Drink Alex Kirkwood and Head Sommelier Jacq Turner, Loose Lips is set to showcase 100+ wines from 30 producers with unlimited tastings and a pop-up bottleshop to take home the real deal. Those producers are a mix of international and Australian winemakers, including Brash Higgins, Ephemera Wines, Frankly, This Wine Was Made By Bob, Les Fruits, Meredith by Mem, Pool Wines, Pride of Lunatics, Strange Grapes, Wines of Lebanon, Worlds Apart, Yayoi and many more. It's more than a wine bar takeover. It's a cellar door-level lineup. It's not all sips. Guest chef Mitch Orr (Kiln, Navi) will be on-site to serve pizza slices and signature 'genre-defying' takes on Italian snacks (all perfectly paired, of course). The evening soundtrack will come from a range of DJs, with Ed Loveday and Veda downstairs, and DJ Levins and friends taking to the decks in the upstairs Panorama Bar for the free Loose Lips afterparty.
It's been over five years in the making, but Erskineville's Kurrajong Hotel finally reopened post-renovations in September of 2025. The sprawling corner pub was shuttered for an extensive facelift after coming into new ownership in 2019, only to never reopen and become repossessed in 2024. Now, it's back, and in top form, restored to true heritage glory and now complete with Kurrajong House — a boutique accommodation offering on the top floor. The 1930s pub has always been a "locals pub run by locals". That mission statement remains true for new venue head Johnny Mathias, alongside chef Francesco Catellana, Culinary Advisor George Calombaris and a bar team headed up by Brandon Marignano. Now comes a menu of elevated pub grub, beginning with snacks like cheese and garlic milk buns, lobster nuggets with charred orange and cajun, scallop ceviche with nam jim dressing, salmon roe and finger lime and puffed pork crackling with chipotle rouille and anchovies. Smaller start plates follow, with tuna tartare accompanied by grapefruit, green tomato, and shiso, alongside classics such as salt-and-pepper calamari with Sichuan pepper and lime aioli. Moving to mains, it becomes a focused affair. Steak lovers can tuck into 300g wagyu picanha or Angus striploin with house-made red wine, peppercorn or mushroom sauce. Otherwise, diners can indulge in the likes of house-made vodka rigatoni with anchovy crumb, grilled king prawns with yuzu, tarragon and black garlic labneh or a classic chicken schnitty with cabbage and pea salad (and chips, obviously). Weekly specials take things up a notch from typical pub fare, too. Monday is all about $25 fish and chips, Tuesday offers $35pp Brazilian bbq, Wednesday's are home to monthly rotating French dishes, Thursday is a lasagna day, Friday is curry night, and Saturday calls for all-you-can-eat oysters from 3.30–5pm. Oh, and desserts? Your choice is between basque cheesecake, pistachio rice pudding, or a sweet-and-salty dark chocolate mousse. On the bar side of things, there are five beer taps and house wines from Alpha Box & Dice. Cocktails get a mention too, with a short but sweet list of classics and two house special slushies: Just Peachy and Madame Yuzu. Images: Trent van der Jagt
Turning Valentine's Day into a month-long celebration of love, Loftus Lane Cafe is hosting a whimsical Heart High Tea. Featuring swoon-worthy sweet and savoury delights across daily afternoon feasts, these get-togethers are themed around ferris wheels and carousels, making it a vibrant way to spoil your partner or your besties. Running until February 28, each feast offers a warm-hearted assortment of mini sandwiches, scones with cream, macarons, berry tartlets, sliders and more. Plus, this bright and bubbly cafe and bar is adorned with many thoughtful touches, from fresh flowers and custom Valentine decor to elegant French tableware. Starting from $69 per person (minimum two people required), the Loftus Lane High Tea runs for 90 minutes and includes a non-alcoholic beverage package. However, you're invited to step up to the Signature Cocktail High Tea ($85pp), which adds a refreshing drink, or the Boozy High Tea ($129pp), where unlimited house wine, spirits, tap beer and non-alc beverages pour free.
Every single week, new releases grace the country's cinemas, spanning instant masterpieces, forgettable dreck and everything in-between. But as glorious as the silver-screen experience is — for watching a film, there's absolutely nothing like it — that's not the only place to see an ace movie. Plenty of standout flicks are now dropping in your streaming queue every single month without gracing a picture palace first. Sometimes, they've had small film festival runs beforehand — but definitely not always. Back in the day, these would've been dubbed 'straight to video' and come with an air of suspicion. But bypassing cinemas has never been synonymous with terrible films. It certainly hasn't been in 2022 so far, with the first six months of the year delivering a heap of highlights — 15 that we've picked, in fact — that rank among the year's best. Here's the full rundown of the straight-to-streaming gems that you need to catch up with. The added bonus: you can watch them all from your couch now. KIMI For the second year in a row, Steven Soderbergh has made one of the year's best movies and it has completely bypassed Australian cinemas. Unlike last year's No Sudden Move, however, Kimi was always destined for streaming. The latest in his series of paranoid thrillers that also includes Contagion, and once again female-fronted as Haywire, Side Effects and Unsane were too, this Zoë Kravitz-starring standout takes its cues from smart devices, humanity's increasing dependence upon technology, and the kinds of events that a virtual assistant like Siri, Alexa or Google Assistant might eavesdrop on. As a result, Soderbergh has crafted another movie that riffs on a growing area of real-life interest, then turns it into a tense, potent and devilishly smart feature. A bonus: focusing on a protagonist who doesn't feel safe leaving her house, Kimi couldn't better capture how the pandemic has felt without overtly needing to be a COVID-19 film. Kravitz (The Batman) plays Angela Childs, who works for Seattle-based tech corporation Amygdala from the comfort of her own sprawling loft — and from her own audiophile's dream of a computer setup — listening to snippets of conversation captured by smart speaker Kimi for quality assurance. In one clip, she hears what she believes to be a horrible crime and is compelled to follow up; however, her bosses aren't thrilled about her probing. Complicating matters: after being the victim of an assault a couple of years earlier, Angela suffers from anxiety and agoraphobia, making leaving the house to investigate a fraught task. As he did to particularly stellar effect in Unsane as well, Soderbergh styles his latest psychological thriller after its protagonist's mindset, making unease and suspense drop from every aesthetic choice — camera angles and placement, jittery frames and a voyeuristic perspective all included. Kimi is available to stream via Binge. FRESH Finally, a film about dating in the 21st century with real bite — and that's unafraid to sink its teeth into the topic. In this hit Sundance horror-comedy, Normal People's Daisy Edgar-Jones plays Noa, and once again gets entangled in a romance that'll leave a mark; here, however, the scars aren't merely emotional. Swiping right hasn't been doing it for Fresh's protagonist, as a comically terrible date with the appropriately named Chad (Brett Dier, Jane the Virgin) demonstrates early. Then sparks fly the old-fashioned way, in-person at the supermarket, with the curiously offline doctor Steve (Sebastian Stan, Pam & Tommy). Soon, he's whisking her away to a secluded spot for the weekend — a little too swiftly for Noa's protective best friend Mollie's (Jojo T Gibbs, Twenties) liking, especially given that no one can virtually stalk his socials to scope him out — and that getaway takes a savage and nightmare-fuelling twist. If Raw met Ex Machina, then crossed paths with American Psycho and Hostel, and finally made the acquaintance of any old rom-com, Fresh still wouldn't be the end result — but its tone stems from those parts, as do some plot points and performances, and even a few scenes as well. First-time feature director Mimi Cave doesn't butcher these limbs, though, and screenwriter Lauryn Kahn (Ibiza) doesn't stitch them together like Frankenstein's monster. As anchored by the excellent Edgar-Jones and Stan, there's care, savvy, smarts and style in this splatter-filled, satirical, brutal, funny, empowered and sweet film. Its twists, and its cutting take on predatory dating, are best discovered by watching, but being turned off apps, men and meat in tandem is an instant gut reaction. Fresh is available to stream via Disney+. COW As its name so clearly explains, Cow devotes its frames to one farmyard animal — and it's one of the most haunting films of the past few years. It's the third feature to take its title from a four-legged critter in the past 12 months, after the vastly dissimilar Pig and Lamb. It's also the second observational documentary of late to peer at the daily existence of creatures that form part of humanity's food chain, following the also-exceptional Gunda. And, it also joins 2013's The Moo Man in honing its focus specifically upon dairy farming, and in Britain at that. But the key to Cow is Andrea Arnold, the phenomenal filmmaker behind Fish Tank, Wuthering Heights, American Honey and the second season of Big Little Lies. She sees Luma, her bovine protagonist, with as much affection and understanding as she's ever seen any of the women who've led her projects. While watching, viewers do as well. Starting with the birth of Luma's latest calf — and, in the beginning, taking detours to see how it's faring as well — Cow unfurls with the rhythm of its agricultural setting. It's the rhythm of Luma's life, too, as she's milked and fed, moos for the offspring that's taken away too quickly, and is soon impregnated again. There's no doubt where the documentary is headed, either. There's simply no shying away from the fact that Luma and cattle like her only exist for milk or meat. Without ever offering any narration or on-screen explanation, Arnold stares at these facts directly, while also peering deeply into its bovine subject's eyes as often as possible. The result is hypnotic, inescapably affecting, and also features the best use of Garbage's 'Milk' ever in a movie. Cow is available to stream via DocPlay. I'M YOUR MAN Since 2013, any film that's involved making an emotional connection with artificial intelligence has brought Her to mind. Since 2014, any movie about human-android relationships has conjured up Ex Machina as well. And, since 2007, any flick that focuses on the companionship that a lonely human soul might find in an artificial companion has walked in Lars and the Real Girl's footsteps, too. In smart, perceptive and warmly humorous German gem I'm Your Man, however, it's a woman who is opening her life to a male presence — an AI-run robot designed to be her perfect match — and she's not too happy about it. Archaeologist Dr Alma Felser (Maren Egger, I Was at Home, But) is merely and begrudgingly testing out the technology that brings Tom (Dan Stevens, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga) into her life, for three weeks at the behest of her boss at Berlin's Pergamon Museum, and solely for the good of science. I'm Your Man is a rom-com, which means exactly what viewers think it does going in: that Alma slowly starts rethinking her position on Tom. But that's about the only aspect of this thoughtful, witty and yearning exploration of what it means to be human and to truly connect that does what's expected. Fresh from winning an Emmy for directing Unorthodox, German filmmaker Maria Schrader helms a charming and insightful take on what's beginning to be an oft-considered topic, and is unpacked in a moving and delightful way in her hands. Her film is also extremely well cast, with Egger thoroughly deserving her 2021 Berlinale Silver Bear for Best Acting Performance as Alma, and Stevens pitch-perfect as the supposed robotic man of her dreams — who just wants love himself. I'm Your Man is available to stream via Binge. HELLBENDER Meet the Adams family — no, not the creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky characters that've featured on pages and screens for decades (including in two terrible recent animated flicks), but the filmmaking collective comprised of couple Toby Poser and John Adams, plus their daughters Zelda and Lulu Adams. The quartet might be missing a letter from their well-known counterparts' names, but they're just as fond of all things horror. Case in point: their second feature Hellbender, a self-financed standout that's both a spellbinding tale of witchcraft and a clever coming-of-age story. It starts in a house in the woods, and also spends most of its time there. It includes the arrival of an unexpected stranger, shattering the status quo. But formulaic and by-the-numbers, this must-see isn't. In making first-rate use of its setting, and of a cast that's primarily comprised of Adams family members, it's also a masterclass in lockdown filmmaking. In the most expected aspect of Hellbender, the film's name does indeed refer to a punk-metal band, with 16-year-old Izzy (Zelda Adams, The Deeper You Dig) and her mother (Toby Poser) its sole members. No one else has ever heard them play, either, given that Izzy is both homeschooled and confined to the family's sprawling mountainside property, as she has been since she was five. Her mum tells her that she can't venture into town or around other people due to a contagious autoimmune disease; however, when a lost man (John Adams) wanders their way and mentions that his teenage niece Amber (Lulu Adams) lives nearby, Izzy gets the confidence to go exploring. As both written and directed by three out of four Adams family members — all except Lulu — Hellbender proves an impressive supernatural affair from its opening occult-heavy prologue through to its astute take on teen rebellion. Here's hoping this Adams family spirits up more DIY horror delights soon, too. Hellbender is available to stream via Shudder. APOLLO 10 1/2: A SPACE AGE CHILDHOOD In 1969, the year that Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood is set, writer/director Richard Linklater was nine years old and living in Houston, Texas. This lovely animated film happens to follow a boy around the same age in the same city — and trust the filmmaker behind Boyhood, Dazed and Confused, and the glorious trio that is Before Sunrise, Before Sunset and Before Midnight to make viewers who weren't there then (who weren't even alive and have never been to America, too) to feel as nostalgic about the place and era as he clearly does. As narrated by his Bernie and The School of Rock star Jack Black, the film's entire middle section dances through memories of the time and city with infectious enthusiasm, but its biggest dose of affection radiates towards the technological promise of the 60s. The Mercury, Gemini and Apollo missions were rocketing into space and it patently felt like anything was possible, a sensation so marvellously captured in each second of Apollo 10 1/2. Jumping back into the rotoscoped animation that served Linklater so well in Waking Life and A Scanner Darkly, this loving ode to years and moods gone by also sports a delightful premise. As his older guise (Black) explains, young Stan (debutant Milo Coy) was an ordinary Houston kid with a NASA-employed dad (Bill Wise, Waves), doting mum (Lee Eddy, Cruel Summer) and five older siblings when he was approached by two men (Shazam!'s Zachary Levi and Everybody Wants Some!!'s Glen Powell) to help them with a problem. In the lead up to Apollo 11, it seems that NASA accidentally built the lunar module a couple of sizes too small, so they need a kid — Stan — to help them by going to the moon to test things out before Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins make their famous trip in a bigger version. That fantastical idea feels ripped from Linklater's childhood dreams, and it well might be; it also makes for a warm and charming entry point into a movie that's as much about life's ups and downs, the bonds of family and the wide-eyed optimism of youth as it is about heading to space. Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood is available to stream via Netflix. THE JANES In the perfect version of 2022, watching The Janes would resemble unpacking a time capsule. In this documentary's frames, remnants of life during 60s and 70s America flicker across the screen — visions of what the US was like for women before the Supreme Court's landmark 1973 Roe v Wade ruling. But, devastatingly, that's not how viewing this Tia Lessin (Citizen Koch)- and Emma Pildes-directed film feels like now thanks to recent developments with America's current conservative-skewed highest judicial body. Accordingly, this powerful doco might just offer a window into the possible future by cataloguing a dark and heartbreaking part of the past. Its focus: members of Chicago's The Jane Collective, who stepped in to provide safe, affordable but also highly illegal abortion services when terminating pregnancies, and therefore giving women agency over their choices and their very existence, was a crime across the nation. Fellow 2022 highlight Happening has charted the same territory at around the same time, but in France and fictionalised. Back in 2020, the phenomenal Never Rarely Sometimes Always examined the situation in the US recently — well, before this year's Supreme Court ruling undoing Roe v Wade — as well. Each of the above, and The Janes as well, unsurprisingly makes for harrowing, infuriating, heart- and gut-wrenching viewing. In this instance, the film sticks with current-day talking heads and archival footage to step through why the service provided by Jane, aka the Abortion Counseling Service of Women's Liberation, was necessary and important. The brave and heroic women involved talked through the details with clarity and potency, as do some of the men who assisted, whether as husbands who were also lawyers, doctors, or construction workers-turned-abortionists. Of course, unlike in the times chronicled, women never come second to men in this gripping and resonant doco. The Janes is available to stream via Binge. CHA CHA REAL SMOOTH With Freshman Year, Cooper Raiff cemented himself as a talent to watch, both on- and off-screen. The writer, director, actor, editor and producer wore many hats on the likeable romance-meets-coming-of-age film, and he wore them all impressively and effortlessly. With Cha Cha Real Smooth, he hands over splicing duties, but he's just as ace in every other guise yet again. Winner of the Audience Award at this year's Sundance Film Festival, in the prestigious event's US Dramatic competition, this comedy also focuses on the fact that no one really knows how to handle life — this time centring its tale around the just-out-of-college Andrew (Raiff, Madeline & Cooper). The character returns home after graduating with the sole aim of making enough cash to follow his girlfriend to Spain, but falls into a gig hosting Bar Mitzvahs for his younger brother David's (Evan Assante, Dinosaur World) friends. Andrew falls in another way, too: in love with Domino (an exceptional Dakota Johnson, playing a mum again after The Lost Daughter), mother to Evan's classmate Lola (debutant Vanessa Burghardt). Lola has autism, is bullied by the other kids and usually finds herself ignored at parties, somewhat happily so; however, Andrew makes her feel comfortable and accepted, which doesn't go unnoticed. His growing fondness for Domino is complicated, though. So is the object of his affection herself — and, while more than half a century ago The Graduate splashed in a similar pool, Johnson brings her own shades and depths to a woman who is yearning for stability yet rallying against it. Everything also remains complex about Cha Cha Real Smooth's portrait of being a fresh college graduate with everything ahead of you and zero ideas of how what to truly do — and proves always-earnest as well, a description that applies to Raiff's work as Andrew and this low-key, insightful and charming movie alike. Cha Cha Real Smooth is available to stream via Apple TV+. FIRE ISLAND Pride and Prejudice, but set on New York's Fire Island. That's it, that's the queer rom-com that shares its setting's name. Fire Island, the movie, even comes with its own Mr Darcy — here called Will and played by How to Get Away with Murder's Conrad Ricamora, who should enjoy the same career bump that Colin Firth did in the 90s when he stepped into the part in a far-more-faithful TV adaptation. Updating Jane Austen isn't new, of course. Bridget Jones' Diary, also famously starring Firth, did the same with Pride and Prejudice. Stone-cold classic Clueless, which gets a shoutout here in a perfectly co-opted line of dialogue, did it with Emma, too. One of Fire Island's best traits is how new yet comfortable it feels, though, like thumbing through a favourite but seeing it afresh — with hot tubs full of praise deserved by director Andrew Ahn (Spa Night, Driveways) and screenwriter/star Joel Kim Booster (Loot). Booster also boasts a writing credit on The Other Two, one of the best new TV comedies of the past few years — and that bitingly smart, laugh-a-minute tone shines through in Fire Island, too. He takes Austen's tale about love and class and steeps it within the queer community, its subdivisions and subcultures, and issues of race and socio-economic status that ripple through, as they do in America and the world more broadly. That's what Booster's self-confident Noah finds himself navigating on a week-long annual getaway with his best friends, and after he decides to put his pal Howie's (Bowen Yang, Saturday Night Live) romantic prospects above his own. If you know the OG story, you know what happens next, including Noah's path towards the initially stern, quiet and standoffish Will. The end product here is witty, funny, heartwarming and sincere, as well as supremely well cast, energetic from start to finish, and bursting with queer pride. Fire Island is available to stream via Disney+. ASCENSION Ascension may not be one of this year's Oscar-winners, losing out to the also fantastic Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised), but it'll always be among 2022's nominees. More than that, this two-time Tribeca Film Festival winner will forever remain one of the most arresting documentaries of the past 12 months as well. Helming her first feature-length doco, filmmaker Jessica Kingdon turns her gaze to the Chinese dream — and what she sees, while situated in a very specific cultural context by design, is a clear and easy sibling to its American counterpart. That's part of the statement her film makes, all just by watching on patiently but meticulously as people go about their lives. Starting with factory recruitment on the streets, then moving into mass production, then climbing the social hierarchy up to the rich and privileged, Ascension explores employment and consumerism — and what they mean in an everyday sense in modern-day and modernised China. It's a portrait of the needs that make working on assembly lines a necessity, and of the dreams that inspire every climb, rung by rung, up the societal ladder. Some folks build sex dolls, their uncanny valley-esque forms adding an eerie mood. Others take lessons on etiquette for service jobs, including about not letting your face betray your emotions, and the tone is also unsettling. Observational to a mesmerising degree, Kingdon's exceptional film lets its slices of life and the behaviour, attitudes and patterns they capture do the talking, and they all speak volumes. Indeed, what a clever, telling, incisive and surreal story they unfurl. Ascension is available to stream via Paramount+. THE HOUSE Not to be confused with well-cast but decidedly unfunny Will Ferrell and Amy Poehler-starring comedy of the same name, The House dedicates its weird and wonderful stop-motion animated frames to three tales all set in the same abode. In the anthology film's first chapter from directors Marc James Roels and Emma De Swaef, a poverty-stricken family mocked by richer relatives luck into a deal with an architect, which results in the movie's central dwelling being built — and its new inhabitants getting more than they bargained for. In the second part by Niki Lindroth von Bahr, a developer, who also happens to be a rat, finalises his renovations and readies the place for sale; however, two odd prospective buyers won't leave after the first viewing. And in the third section from Paloma Baeza, the home towers above an apocalyptic future flooded with water, with its owner, a cat, struggling with her fellow feline tenants. Each of The House's films-within-a-film hail from a different creative team, boast different voice casts and splash around their own aesthetics — and they're all a delight. The constants: the titular structure, the fabric-style look to the animation (even as each director comes up with their own take) that makes you want to reach out and touch it, and mix of creativity and emotion in its dark-skewing stories. This is a movie that questions the comfortable mindset that bricks and mortar are expected to bring, and where where just trying to get by is recognised as the struggle it is in a variety of wild and inventive ways. And as for that vocal talent, Matthew Goode (The King's Man), Mia Goth (Emma.), Helena Bonham Carter (The Crown), Susan Wokoma (Truth Seekers) and Pulp frontman Jarvis Cocker all do ace work. The House is available to stream via Netflix. TURNING RED What'd happen if the Hulk was a teenage girl, and turned into a giant, fuzzy, super-cute red panda instead of going green and getting ultra-muscular? Or, finding a different riff on the ol' werewolf situation, if emotions rather than full moons inspired a case of not-quite-lycanthropy? These aren't queries that most folks have thought of, but writer/director Domee Shi certainly has — and they're at the core of Pixar's Turning Red, her debut feature after winning an Oscar for 2018 short Bao. As many of the animation studio's movies do, the film takes its title literally. But, it also spins the usual Pixar question. Turning Red does indeed wonder what'd happen if red pandas sported human-style emotions; however, the Disney-owned company has been musing on people becoming other kinds of critters of late, with particularly astute and endearing results here. The movie's focus: 13-year-old Chinese Canadian Meilin Lee (Rosalie Chiang, also making her film debut). The year is 2002, and she loves meeting her strict but doting mum Ming's (Sandra Oh, The Chair) expectations, hanging out with her pals and obsessing over boy band 4*Town. And while her mother doesn't approve of her friends or her taste in music, Mei has become accustomed to juggling everything that's important to her. But then, after a boy-related mishap, the red panda appears. Mei goes to bed feeling normal, albeit angsty and upset, only to wake up looking like a cuddly creature. Like werewolf tales about teenage boys tend to be, Turning Red is all about puberty and doesn't hide it — and whether it's tackling that head-on, pondering generational trauma or showing its rampant love for boy bands, it sports sweetness, soul and smarts. Turning Red is available to stream via Disney+. Read our full review. HUSTLE When well-deserved Oscar predictions came Adam Sandler's way for the astounding Uncut Gems, the actor and comedian said that he'd make the worst movie ever if he didn't win one of the Academy's shiny trophies. He didn't, and then Hubie Halloween arrived — and now Hustle. No, neither is the most terrible film on Sandler's resume. In Hustle's case, it happens to be home to one of his best performances. He has plenty to his name, including in Punch-Drunk Love, The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected) and, of course, Uncut Gems, so it's in good company. There's also an element of art reflecting life in this new sports drama, even though basketball isn't what Sandler is famous for IRL. He knows more than a thing or two about only being seen one way, however, when his talents span much further. Whenever he branches away from the style of comedies that made his name, starting with Billy Madison and Happy Gilmore, he knows plenty about being the underdog, too. On-screen, Stanley Sugerman is Hustle's underdog. A scout for the Philadelphia 76ers, he jets around the world scoping out new talent in the hope of finding a future match-winner, but it's not the job he wants. He loves basketball, he used to play and he's long dreamed about being a coach — but when good news arrives, then tragedy strikes, then the calculating Vince Merrick (Ben Foster, Galveston) takes over as the team's owner, it seems he'll be on the road forever. Bo Cruz (real-life NBA player Juancho Hernangómez) might be his ticket to better things, though, if he can get the Spanish construction worker signed or drafted. There's nothing that's surprising about director Jeremiah Zagar's (We the Animals) choices, or screenwriters Taylor Materne (video game NBA 2K20) and Will Fetters' (A Star Is Born) either, but Hustle remains a strong and lived-in character-driven drama as much as a tense against-the-odds sports film — and it's as entertaining and engaging to watch as the playoffs. Hustle is available to stream via Netflix. LUCY AND DESI Icons celebrating icons: when Amy Poehler directs a documentary about Lucille Ball, as she does here, that's the end result. It's fitting that Lucy and Desi includes a letter read mere days after Desi Arnaz's death, about his ex-wife and longterm professional partner, that included a touching line: "I Love Lucy wasn't just the name of the show". Poehler loves Lucy, too, understandably. Watching the compilation of clips curated here — spanning Ball's movie career in the 30s and 40s, as well as her TV shows such as the pioneering I Love Lucy, follow-up The Lucy–Desi Comedy Hour, and later sitcoms The Lucy Show and Here's Lucy — it's impossible not to see Ball's influence upon the Saturday Night Live and Parks and Recreation star, and upon the generations of female comedians that've followed Ball. Lucy and Desi loves Arnaz as well, though, and truly adores the pair's tumultuous love story — one that changed the course of comedy history. Forget Being the Ricardos, the average-at-best Aaron Sorkin film that inexplicably earned Oscar nominations — including for its one-note performances — and doesn't even dream of being funny. A deeper, meatier, far more interesting dance through Ball and Arnaz's life comes from Lucy and Desi, which benefits not just from Poehler's affection and her eagerness to ensure that her subjects' personalities shine through, but also from previously unreleased audio tapes of the pair talking about their ups and downs. Recent interviews pepper the film as well, including with daughter Lucie Arnaz Luckinbill, and the iconic Carol Burnett. Still, this doco's points of focus truly do speak best for themselves, whether chatting frankly or seen in all of those wonderful sitcom snippets. Lucy and Desi is is available to stream via Prime Video. THE FALLOUT As a next-generation scream queen, Jenna Ortega has had an eventful 2022 so far. She proved one of the highlights of the latest Scream, in fact, then popped up in Foo Fighters horror movie Studio 666. And, she also made a firm impression in 70s-set, porn-shoot slasher X. Similarly a recent highlight: The Fallout, which earned both jury and audience awards for Best Narrative Feature at the 2021 SXSW Film Festival, and is horrifying in a completely different way to its star's other roles of late. To be precise, it's devastating. Here, the former child actor plays an American teenager who endures what must be every American teenager's worst nightmare, then understandably struggles to process the aftermath. Surviving a school shooting isn't something that anyone should be expected to come to terms with, to move on from, or to slide easily back into their everyday life — including going back to the same classes — after, obviously. When that terrifying incident occurs, Vada Cavell (Ortega) happens to be in the bathroom. As soon as the first shots are heard, she's hiding in a toilet stall with the school's resident dance star Mia Reed (Maddie Ziegler, thankfully worlds away from Music), and both emerge physically unscathed. But the trauma and emotional scars run deep, with The Fallout chronicling Vada's post traumatic stress disorder-affected headspace in the days, weeks and longer that follow. Written and directed by actor-turned-feature filmmaking debutant Megan Park, this is an immensely powerful portrait of grief on several levels — for classmates lost, lives forever changed and innocent views of the world instantly shattered. Every choice made by Park, and also by Ortega and Ziegler, plunges viewers into their Vada and Mia's internal tussles, including the score by Finneas O'Connell. The Fallout is available to stream via Binge. Looking for more viewing highlights? Check out our list of film and TV streaming recommendations, which is updated monthly. We've also picked our top 15 movies that hit cinemas in the first half of 2022, as well as the 15 best new TV shows and 15 best returning TV shows of the year so far.
Longstanding Bondi favourite Da Orazio is reopening in its original home on Wednesday, March 30 with a new accompanying bar, Orazietto, joining it next door. Hallmarks of the original venue including its red door and fan-favourite dishes are all back on the menu, alongside inventive new additions to the venue's array of Italian eats. "In Italian we say, 'il primo amore non si scorda mai' which means the first love you never forget," says the restaurant's renowned owner Orazio D'Elia. "Da Orazio was my firstborn, my first love, so to be able to bring the venue back to life means so much to me and my team. I can't wait for all our Da Orazio friends to return, and welcome new friends." Inside, the 90-seat restaurant has undergone a makeover, sporting a fresh new look, but classic dishes like rotisserie porchetta with focaccia, fregola fruit di mare, and antipasti share plates haven't changed. Alongside these mainstays, mortadella cacio e pepe, and a fancy new pizza menu are among the new additions. Pizza chef Matteo Ernandes is using a new contemporary pizza dough recipe for the bases that he promises makes the bases "lighter and more digestible". Next door, Orazietto seats up to 40 people and doesn't take reservations. The atmosphere is more casual and you can swing by for a quick drink, but all the food from Da Orazio is still on offer. Da Orazio is located at Shop 75, 79 Hall Street, Bondi Beach.
Fancy a dip with a difference? Boutique hotel connoisseurs Mr & Mrs Smith have a bunch of seductive watery wonders. From awe-inspiring views and cater-to-every-whim butler service, these shimmering stretches will have you flapping your water wings in excitement (Speedos optional). Hotel Crillon le Brave, Provence Where: Rue Église, 84410, Crillon-le-Brave, Vaucluse, France What: Stone-built hilltop hideaway Perched high on a peachy-hued Provencal hilltop, Hotel Crillon le Brave is made up of seven houses clustered around a 16th-century church. After a quick bonjour to the hotel’s namesake — a mustachioed statue of the real Crillon le Brave — follow the discreet grey signs on pale stacked-stone exteriors to this hip hostellerie. A maze of footpaths leads down stone steps and over cobbled terraces to the separate maisons: charming sleeping quarters that look out over pale terracotta roof tiles, neatly coiffed vineyards and limestone-topped hills. The Cezanne-worthy panorama continues poolside; swimmers can catch glimpses between strokes as they work off a lion's share of croissants, pastries and crisp local rosé. Perivolas, Santorini Where: Oia Santorini, 847 02, Cyclades Islands, Greece What: Dream lava Plucked straight from the pages of a glossy spread, Perivolas is a supermodel in hotel form. Poised high on the hills of Santorini above the Aegean sea, this is the sort of hideaway that inspires spontaneous marriage proposals. A soundtrack of distant lapping waves fills whitewashed-walled rooms that peer out over the caldera (the proper name for the volcanic crater-cum-bay, if you please), while sunlounger-graced terraces provide the postcard-perfect spot to stare out into the brilliant blue. A resplendent infinity pool is the jewel atop Perivolas’ crown: seamlessly merging with the endless azure horizon and offering a spectacular setting to sup sundowners and watch the sun melt into the sea. Masseria Torre Maizza, Puglia Where : C.da Coccaro, 70015, Savelletri di Fasano Brindisi, Italy What: Spacious and gracious A 16th-century coastal estate set in olive groves with ocean views, Masseria Torre Maizza is sister to Masseria Torre Coccaro — good looks clearly run in the family. There’s no cause to fret about countryside isolation: days here are spent ambling between the spa, cookery school and golf course. Water babies should head straight for the outdoor pool, surrounded by vine-dressed columns, hammocks and more sunbeds than you can poke a crostino at. When a growling stomach interrupts, make for Ristorante delle Palme, where black-lacquered chairs and white-linen-topped tables spill onto the poolside terrace. Rayavadee, Krabi Where :214 Moo 2, Tambon Ao-Nang, Amphoe Maung, Thailand What: Sand-circle garden pavilions Flanked by dramatic limestone cliffs and glittering beaches, Rayavadee is accessible only by boat from Krabi. Picturesque pavilions are tucked between towering tropical palm trees; it's a look befitting a tribal jungle village with a penchant for Jacuzzis, spa treatments and homemade cookies. The sapphire-coloured waters of the sprawling lagoon-style infinity pool offer uninterrupted views of the Andaman Sea and respite for those weary from jungle treks. If you can be coaxed from your plumped sunbed, adventure-junkies can pursue rock-climbing, kayaking and scuba-diving; land-lubbers should seek out the spa for an hour (or more) of towel-cocooned pampering. Raas, Jodphur Where :Tunwar ji ka Jhalra, Makrana Mohalla, Gulab Sagar, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India What: Achingly hip haveli Set in the shadow of the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, Raas is a modern-day Maharaja’s mansion. A cluster of four heritage rose-red sandstone buildings make up this refashioned family manor, decorated with sprawling terraced gardens, boutiques, spas and restaurants. Beyond the hotel walls, the city is a frenetic blend of colour and chaos. Inside, your only disruptions are birds trilling and water tinkling. An at-your-service butler-attended infinity pool brings a splash of Ibiza to the Indian desert; expect white-canopied sunloungers, chilled tunes and poolside yoga. Ace Hotel & Swim Club, Palm Springs Where :701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, California, United States What: Hipster’s canyon commune Seducing the young and young at heart, Ace Hotel & Swim Club marries sleek architecture and low-key luxury with a smattering of vintage design accents. Sun-seekers can brave the heat by renting a candy-coloured Vespa or booking a horseback riding lesson, leaving those attached to air-conditioned comfort to languidly laze in a hammock and work through the hotel bar’s cocktail menu. An eclectic soundtrack of indie rock, '70s and '80s hits, top-40 numbers and spinning DJs provide the poolside playlist. The King’s Highway restaurant (once a roadside Denny’s) dishes up classic American fare with splashes of the unexpected — try the harissa lamb and pan-seared tilapia. Eagles Nest, Bay of Islands Where: 60 Tapeka Road, Russell, New Zealand What: Modern, minimal, magical Prepare to be hypnotised at Eagles Nest, a hotel where pampering means private chefs, peaceful pools and a Porsche at your disposal. From its perch atop a private peninsula, this North Island retreat has sweeping views over the Bay of Islands and 75-acre grounds that are ripe for exploration. Villas are cool and contemporary, tucked away in the middle of lush native bush; all are self-contained with a gourmet kitchen and private deck. Each villa has its own heated infinity-edge lap pool (except the First Light, which has a Jacuzzi), fringed by sleek white day-beds and romantic lanterns for moodily lit evenings. Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali Where: Jl. Belimbing Sari, Banjar Tambiyak, Desa Pecatu, Bali, Indonesia What: Minimalist eco-glam From the lobby at Alila Villas Uluwatu you’ll catch your first glimpse of the hotel’s 50m infinity pool and the Indian Ocean beyond, and we challenge any paddling professional not to be impressed. With each villa replete with its own pool and butler, it’s quite possible that you’ll be the only guests at the hotel’s main watering hole. With a cliff-edge perch and cantilevered cabana, a few languid strokes is enough to have you feeling like you’re floating above the world. When hands and feet become sufficiently wrinkled, retire to Spa Alila, a holistic heaven where local therapists use traditional Asian healing techniques and age-old beauty recipes. Shoreditch Rooms, London Where: 1 Ebor Street, Shoreditch, London, United Kingdom What: Cool crash-pad club Dust off your hipster specs and dig out your coolest ‘resting designer’ attire: it’s time to mention Shoreditch Rooms. An outpost of the media-savvy SoHo House members’ club, glamourpusses and hip creative types have long flocked to this converted warehouse to let off some steam. With breathtaking views across the city, the heated rooftop pool is where it’s at. The bar’s close by, as are gardens complete with open fires, double day-beds and a herb plot. Closer to earth, the ground-floor Cowshed spa has famous facials and massages tailored to your mood. Hotel Habita, Mexico City Where: 201 Avenida Presidente Masaryk, Colonia Polanco, Mexico City, Mexico What: Modern minimalist classic Bang in the middle of posh Polanco, Hotel Habita is a favourite with Mexico City’s fashion-forward and in-the-know elite. Follow in their well-heeled steps by ascending to the rooftop. A glistening pool is overlooked by the hotel’s mezzanine bar, flanked by curvy white loungers, dark wooden decking and complete with a wet bar. Upstairs, the full lounge boasts tables, chairs and a crackling fireplace for cosily cool evenings; films are projected on to the walls of nearby buildings on clear nights. If you prefer dinner a deux to designer-clad crowds, the lobby restaurant offers Mexican bistro cuisine and huge windows prime for people-watching. Feeling hot under the collar? Cool off by taking a dip at other Mr & Mrs Smith pool hotels or browse more hotel collections .
Drew Pettifer casts his friends in photographed re-enactments of scenes from amateur pornography in the countryside where he grew up in this series called Hold onto your friends. The Castle Project is Helena Leslie's delicately drawn and dreamily distorted representation of her experience of anticipating and experiencing and reconsidering a travel plan to Leslie Castle, and an unpacking of the identity of this building throughout its history. Paul Williams' Confetti Solution sees the paintings he's deemed unsuccessful cut into shapes and either scattered across the floor or suspended in swinging open containers as though ready to be distributed. What these three shows have in common is a reclamation of place and an assertion of identity through artistic technique. Leslie's drawings of her ancestral castle as a childhood dream - a site for a potential fairy-tale and a literally bogged-down and for the most part deserted contemporary reality - is a working through of ideas about heritage and history, their tininess implying both critical distance and the idea of the 'faraway' both conceptually and in terms of place. The sites in which Pettifer has pictured his friends are closer to home but equally as transformed. By the interpolation of scenes and figures, settings he identifies as "formerly oppressive" become scenes of queer sexual desire. As to Williams' confetti, they're landscapes that became paintings that became failures - the nature of his practice determining when he makes that call - that he cuts up and displays to make a landscape of a very different sort. Image: Untitled, Drew Pettifer, 2011
When you need an actual escape, not one that just sounds good on paper, travelling far beyond city limits sometimes feels like the only way forward. But the good news is that you won't have to spend hours on the road with the Aruna Estate ready and waiting for your arrival. Just a 90-minute drive from Sydney, this luxury farm stay offers 70 secluded acres of bliss-filled serenity, tucked into the rolling hills of the Southern Highlands. Bringing together architectural design, sustainability and easygoing sophistication, owners Antony and Chris Spanbrook imagined Aruna Estate as a place to reconnect with nature without sacrificing comfort. What's more, they envisaged a stay where slowing down felt genuinely restorative. That means by the time you're back behind the desk, you won't feel more exhausted than when you first hit the road. "The name Aruna carries a layered cultural meaning," says Antony. "In Thai, 'Arun' signifies dawn or daybreak, and in Japanese, 'Aruna' translates to 'moon love'. For Chris and I, the name reflects the beauty we see here from dawn through to night. It captures the sense of stillness, connection and quiet magic that this landscape offers." Yet there's no singular way to experience Aruna Estate, with the accommodation available suited to a range of stays, from romantic weekends to group celebrations. You'll have to painstakingly choose between four modern villas, complete with cosy fireplaces and outdoor fire pits, or a pair of custom-designed off-grid cabins made for peaceful bush immersion — think private decks with fire-powered bathtubs. Meanwhile, The Residence is a boutique guest lodge, featuring en suite rooms and a communal lounge. But it's the on-site experiences that ultimately set Aruna Estate apart. During your stay, you're invited to indulge in yoga or meditation sessions on a purpose-built deck surrounded by bushland. There are also in-villa wellness treatments, a tennis court and an infinity-style pool overlooking the valley. Further afield, abundant walking and cycling trails wind through the property and into the surrounding forest. While there's plenty around the estate to keep you occupied, this part of the Southern Highlands is flush with acclaimed wineries, cellar doors and gourmet producers. With this in mind, you can ease through the days in quiet isolation, then explore the region's celebrated food and wine scene once you've worked up enough energy. Grounded in nature yet defined by quiet luxury, Aruna Estate is an escape worth seeking out. Aruna Estate is now open at 200 Kareela Road, Penrose. Head to the website for more information. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox.
Sydney's newest public park is open on the CBD's north-western foreshore, and it's launching with a huge Welcome Celebration — with a giant picnic, fireworks, a free foreshore party, the works. Barangaroo Reserve consists of six hectares of waterfront parkland with views of the western harbour. With a design by American landscape architect Peter Walker (who previously designed the 9/11 memorial in Manhattan) and an outspoken ambassador in former Prime Minister Paul Keating, the park project took two-and-a-half years to complete at a cost of around $250 million. The opening of the park marks the first time in more than a century that this section of the harbour has been accessible to the public. It's also step one in the ambitious $6 billion Barangaroo project, which has the been the subject of controversy for some time now, mostly surrounding James Packer's plans for a $2 billion hotel, casino and apartment complex. Beyond that, the precinct is expected to welcome 80 retailers, including 50 bars and restaurants. In the meantime, the Barangaroo Delivery Authority will celebrate the opening of the park with a 12-week program of free live entertainment, beginning with a giant picnic and welcome party on Sunday September 6 that will shine a light on the Indigenous history of the area and its traditional custodians the Gadigal people. Depending on what time you’re likely to be up and at ‘em on a Sunday, there’s the Welcome Walk first up. Assemble at 10am in Hickson Road Reserve for a free, history-laden tour of the area. There'll be a ceremonial cauldron lighting at 11.15am in Nawi Cove, a tribute to the importance of fire (or guwiiyang) to the Gadigal people of the area, then a Welcome to Country ceremony near Marrinawi Cove at 12.30pm with traditional song and dance. If you're wanting to take full advantage of the waterfront site as it will inevitably be used from now on, bring your blankets and tubs of hummus for the Giant Picnic (yes, it’s a proper noun) where there'll be nosh from Aria Catering and Bourke Street Bakery, pop-up bars by Young Henrys, Lowe Wines and Batlow Cider, hip hop workshops, weaving classes, onstage talks and more. There'll a dusk ceremony in tribute to the women of the Sydney basin lands, including Barangaroo, of course. Then there’ll be a flurry of fireworks off the foreshore from 6pm, directed by Fortunato Foti (the brains behind Sydney's NYE fireworks since 1997). But after so many millions spent, Barangaroo needs a solid party to truly launch the space. The Welcome Party is an all-ages, free shindig happening in the Cutaway — Barangaroo's new cultural/exhibition space— from 6.30-8.30pm, with Thelma Plum, DJ Richard Weiss, NAISDA Dance Group and Oka. It’s a free event, but you have to pre-register here. While you're there, check out contemporary artist Brook Andrew's large-scale sculptural installation Stone – The Weight of History, The Mark of Time. Images: Hamilton Lund & Kata Bayer By Tom Clift and Shannon Connellan.
Introducing Umami House; a brand-new burger venue centred around the fifth taste, umami. Located at The Spot on the site of owner Amit Tewari's previous viral restaurant, Soul Burger, this is the latest from the seasoned burger aficionado. A staple in Japanese and Southeast Asian cuisines, umami remains under-appreciated when it comes to burgers. "Sydney's burger scene is thriving, but I really wanted to offer something unique that people haven't experienced before," says Tewari. "Umami stood out as the missing flavour." Umami translates to 'delicious savoury taste' in Japanese and is naturally found in many popular foods, like tomatoes, truffles, mushrooms and aged cheese. At Umami House, this means a unique twist on the traditional burger – each handmade daily, and carefully infused with shiitake and Umami House's special seasoning. "We worked with beef and mushroom experts to create something that's rich in flavour but which doesn't leave you feeling too heavy afterwards," says Tewari. "By infusing shiitake, the burgers remain moist and decadent with each bite. The shiitake locks in the juiciness that's often lost when meat is cooked on its own, while the house-made umami seasoning works to enhance the crisp, caramelised crust, creating an amazing mouth feel." You'll find the handmade beef patty in four of the six options on the Umami House menu: the Umami Classic, Truffle Shuffle, Smashed Cheese and the Umami Bacon. Joining them are two vegetarian options, of which the Shroomami is a standout – made with mushroom stuffed with oozing muenster and aged cheddar. Meanwhile, the Plant-mami is a plant-based version of the Umami Classic. Round out your feast with parmesan and truffle fries, and cold beer on tap – all served up fast and at affordable prices. That way, you'll be 100% ready to settle in for a flick at The Ritz, which is just up the road. Umami House is at 49 Perouse Rd, Randwick, and opens from 11:30am-9:30pm Sunday to Thursday, and 11:30am-10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Check out the website for more information.
Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither was Bondi Pavilion. In fact, it has taken a two-year restoration for the beachside venue to reclaim its status as the star of Sydney's most-iconic seaside suburb. Now, the building once known as The Castle has not simply been restored to its past glory, but made even better. With the restored institution now featuring an art gallery, pottery studio and theatre, there's a lot to discover in the latest version of Bondi Pavilion. It took many minds (and hands) to realise this eclectic vision: from creatives to curators. In celebration of the arrival, we chatted to some of the people responsible to find out how it all came together. [caption id="attachment_889099" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Wolfgang Ripberger, Architects Portrait series by Martin Mischkulnig[/caption] THE CREATIVE Wolfgang Ripberger has worked on some incredible projects during his career — the Reserve Bank of Australia's Martin Place headquarters, the historic Scots Church and Taronga Zoo's Savannah & Congo Project among them. And, together with Tonkin Zulaikha Greer (TZG), the company where he is a director of projects, he approached Waverley Council re taking on the project at hand — the conservation and restoration of Bondi Pav — and was successful. Acting as project lead, the German-born architect set out with a focus on function as well as form, aiming to honour the building's history. "Working with heritage buildings offers you an opportunity to find inspiration for their redevelopment within the existing fabric," says Ripberger. It was a journey that saw him uncover some interesting insights during the rebuild. "One of the surprises we came across was the original paintwork," he said. "We knew of one — a mural in the theatre that was slightly exposed. However, we came across two new artworks that existed underneath by removing layers during the restoration. The external façade revealed remnants of the original entrance sign, while the Turkish Baths sign and original tiles were also uncovered." These discoveries all reinforced Ripberger's drive to undertake the restoration project in a way that balanced tradition with the need to update a complex that will soon celebrate its centenary anniversary. It is an intention he is hopeful to have executed. "Heritage landmarks are celebrated the most when they're well used and loved by everyone," he says. "So, we had to find a way to protect and carefully restore the building but also allow a few changes to address the new needs of the 21st century." "A few of the ways we accomplished this was by bringing fresh life to the courtyards, by adding new colonnades which were both functional and beautiful," he continues. "We wanted to create a visual connection between the Pavilion and the sea, so that people using it could seek protection from the big southerly winds while still feeling close to the ocean. We also upgraded the atrium — the new central area in the double storey space of the Pavilion that is the interconnection point of all the pathways. It was designed to connect the sky and the sun and offer natural ventilation — I like to call it the lungs of the building." TZG also put a focus on sustainability, with Ripberger incorporating a number of eco additions into the renovation. "From a sustainability point of view, the best thing you can do is keep as much as possible of an existing building, and we managed to retain about 80% of the original structure," he says. The project reduced landfill by recycling 90% of demolished materials, implemented solar panels through the courtyard to take advantage of the sun and focused on long-lasting materials designed to survive the harsh environment. "For example," says Ripberger, "we used copper for the downpipes to minimise rust and corrosion so we don't have to redo them in 10 years time." The finished project is an achievement that Ripberger is rightly proud of: "Peeling back the Pavilion's layers helped me understand what it was made for almost 100 years ago, and gave me a chance to see what worked and what didn't so I could infuse it with new life and restore it properly to be enjoyed for the next 100 years." THE CURATORS Set against the backdrop of one of the most photographed destinations in the world, Bondi Pavilion certainly has its work cut out for it luring visitors away from the vistas of the beach outside. But it has risen to the challenge, with multiple impressive exhibition spaces. "Bondi boasts an incredible group of local artists, an iconic brand and an unbelievably rich local history," share curators Elizabeth Reidy and Todd Fuller together. And for these two curators, the Art Gallery is where all of these elements meet. It is an exciting exhibition space showcasing top-tier contemporary and local artists. "Exhibitions in this space are usually six weeks in duration and enhanced by a range of public programs including talks and workshops," the pair share, and they promise a number of exciting exhibits are on the sun-drenched horizon. What's on currently? The Air Is Electric, a showcase of David McDiarmid's photographic work from his highly transformative 1977 trip to the United States, presented in partnership with the Australian Queer Archives and Sydney WorldPride. McDiarmid is widely recognised as a leading LGBTQIA+ artist and advocate, whose work raised awareness about the experiences of homosexual men with HIV/AIDS in the 1980s and 90s. "These photos capture an America at the height of the gay rights movement," Elizabeth and Todd share together. "In these photographs, we see McDiarmid travelling to San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York in an inspiring and energising trip. The impact of this trip on his practice and politics would be profound." The exhibition to follow is Rainbow, Mermaid, Fireworks. An explosion of colour by collaborators Emily Crockford and Rosie Deacon, the project will transform the gallery into a mermaid's garden to deliver a contemporary take on Bondi's historic Mermaid sculptures of the 1960s. "If you are lucky, you might even meet a real mermaid or two in this exhibition," hint Elizabeth and Todd. And, while the temperature outside may be dropping mid-year, Elizabeth and Todd reveal that the gallery will continue to offer reasons to visit during the winter months and beyond. "July is also a big time for the Bondi Pavilion Gallery," they say. "It will host the Waverley Art Prize which awards a contemporary artist $15,000." The event will see the Pav become the epicentre of Bondi Festival — with performances, tours and activations filling the building — while also cementing the gallery's status as a year-round destination for lovers of all things art. [caption id="attachment_890240" align="alignnone" width="1905"] Katherine Griffiths[/caption] THE CLAY MAKERS The Pav may not appear an obvious choice to practise your pottery making, but that's exactly what's on offer at the renovated complex's clay studio. And while the chance to get creative behind the (sculptor's) wheel may surprise many, it's a little-known fact that the Bondi Pavilion has actually been home to a pottery studio for over 40 years. The original incarnation began in 1976, when a kiln was first bought to fire tiles to make a mosaic floor for the Pavilion foyer. Today, over four decades later, the studio remains a hub of creativity for all ages and abilities. "The clay studio is not an addition but has actually been part of the Pavilion community for many years," share Leanne Berelowitz and Agatha Pupaher, the pair that run the Pav's clay studio (co-directing, managing the studio and teaching). "In the past, it was open to the public for classes. We've had many adults who remember doing school holiday workshops here now bringing their children along to our programs." Today, against an updated backdrop of beautiful arched windows featuring an ever-changing exhibition that showcases student works as well as pieces for sale, the studio continues to offer a range of classes. These include foundation pottery lessons in wheel throwing and hand building, and technique and decoration masterclasses by local artists. More offerings are also in the works, including open studio hours, special senior groups, classes for people with disabilities, exhibitions, writing and clay workshops, collaborations with festivals and more. It is a personal passion for all things pottery that drives both women. "I started taking pottery classes while working as an ICU nurse in my twenties," says Berelowitz. "I loved the tactile therapeutic aspects of working with clay and connecting to my creativity. So, I went to art school at age 30 to study a Bachelor of Fine Arts and gradually transitioned to ceramics full time." "My obsession with clay began about 19 years ago when I first joined a community class with my then-10-year-old daughter," admits Agatha. "When I retired from my career as a psychologist 10 years ago, I also began sharing my passion for clay by teaching kids and adults at my inner west studio Sydney Clay Studio," she adds. However, it is a combined commitment by the duo to share the joy of creativity, community and clay with others that perfectly places them to lead the new-look Bondi Pavilion Clay Studio. "I met Leanne here at Bondi Pavilion six years ago where we discovered our mutual passion for teaching pottery and the beautiful Bondi community," says Agatha. "And here we are! Excited to be a part of Bondi Pavilion's new vibrant space where there's something for everybody." Undersea inspiration is a common theme at the studio. Sunbathers, waves, rock pools, shells and sea creatures, as well as functional pieces like bowls, cups and vases in all shades of the ocean are common final creations. "But people can come to us with almost any idea and we'll help them make it a reality," the pair note. And while the works are important, the memories are even more paramount. Both Agatha and Leanne fondly recall Roz, a long-term participant of their seniors class who passed away a few years ago in her mid-90s and who would often say, 'Sometimes a piece comes out well, and that's wonderful. But if it doesn't that's okay, because I've had such a good time.' "Together, our focus is on teaching good foundation skills and technique in a relaxed and inclusive environment so your creativity can flourish," they finish. "We are excited to build new experiences with anyone interested in working in clay." Ready to check out the Bondi Pavilion for yourself? To discover more of what it has to offer, head to the website. Top image: Katherine Griffiths
The finishing touches are currently being put on a colourful new hotel with multiple dining options just metres from Sydney's Oxford Street. ADGE Hotel + Residencies is the ambitious new transformation of the Riley Street building formerly known as Cambridge Hotel. The new hotel will open in August with 93 guest rooms before expanding to 242 in early 2023 — all of which will be bursting with creativity and colour thanks to SJB. The Sydney-based practice has been in charge of the interiors as part of the $65-million transformation and has reinvented the space from a straight-and-narrow accommodation provider to a space filled with bold flourishes and personality. On entry to the lobby, you'll notice bright carpets, eye-catching furniture and a huge mural from Australian artist Adrian Hing. These standout features foreshadow what you'll find upstairs in your room, with each suite equipped with more retro-influenced carpets and plenty of colourful, one-of-a-kind light fixtures and eccentric pod-style bathrooms. Down in the lobby, you'll also find one of Surry Hills' best cafes, Soul Deli. The Korean favourite recently relocated from down the road, with owners Daero Lee and Illa Kim transforming its original 185 Campbell Street into a new wine and Korean tapas bar. Soul Deli brings Korean staples to the classic Australian cafe menu. Hotel guests and Sydneysiders alike can stop into the new lobby location for sticky fried chicken, house kimchi toasties, specialty coffee and Korean fried doughnuts. Joining this inventive breakfast and lunch spot within ADGE is longstanding eight-seat omakase restaurant Raida Noda's Chef Kitchen and a soon-to-open Italian restaurant with a high-profile chef set to be in charge. Bookings are now open for the hotel with rooms starting from $199 a night. ADGE Hotel + Residencies is opening in August at 222 Riley Street, Surry Hills.
Cafe food is usually an underwhelming experience here in Sydney. It's a shame really, with our excellent and expanding coffee culture that more cafes don't pay as much attention to the food. There are however, a few places starting to change this and Kepos Street Kitchen is one of them. Let's start with the coffee. Like everything here, there's attention to detail. The coffee is from standout cafe The Grounds in Alexandria and the beans are done justice at Kepos Street. There's also an organic tea selection from The Rabbit Hole and some refreshing mocktails. Yes, mocktails are cool, in case you haven't heard. Places like Chiswick and Rockpool Bar & Grill are making their own flavoured sodas and Kepos Street Kitchen is mixing some delicious booze-free drinks like a crisp pomegranate virgin mojito ($9) served in a cute handled jam jar. Yes, lovely well executed drinks that don't contain caffeine or alcohol. How considerate. The cafe's interior is simple and clean. It's mostly white- and honey-coloured wood; we love the creamy tones and big windows. It is right by a main road, but Kepos Street itself is a surprisingly leafy, quiet and charming little spot. Owner Michael Rantissi's Israeli heritage is dotted through the menu with the likes of Tel Aviv falafel and homemade hummus. He appears quite regularly on the floor saying Shalom to friends old and new while the rest of the staff are similarly welcoming. There's a good mix of salads, things wrapped in bread and more substantial dishes like gnocchi with braised veal shoulder and Persian eggplant ($26) which is beautifully balanced in flavour. The slowly braised meat and handmade gnocchi are soft and delicate. A traditional tabouleh salad ($12) is lifted by bursts of fresh pomegranate seeds and shreds of mint. Having previously worked at Pier and Vue de Monde, it's great to see chefs of Rantissi's caliber step into more casual dining, serving thoughtful and simple food with quality ingredients. Kepos Street Kitchen proves that cafe fare deserves consideration and when done well, can be a very rewarding experience. Oh and did we mention the freshly baked cinnamon, pecan, caramel buns? Yep, we're already big fans of Kepos Street Kitchen, and we hope it's a sign of good things to come in our cafe culture.
It's the scheme that's designed to get New South Wales residents out of the house — to eat, and to enjoy the state's entertainment venues — but while Sydney is in lockdown for two weeks, that's not so easy to do. So, the NSW Government has announced that it is extending its Dine & Discover program. It's also expanding the program to cover takeaway for a short period, too. If the first part sounds familiar, that's because this is the second time that the scheme's cutoff date has been shifted. When it was rolled out the statewide from mid-March, Dine & Discover given a June 30 finish date, giving folks more than three months to use their vouchers. Then, at the beginning of this month, the State Government announced that it was extending the program for until the end of July to give NSW residents even more time. Now, thanks to lockdown, it's tacking yet another month onto the end as well. Haven't used any of your vouchers yet? Still have a couple left to redeem? Haven't registered? Either way, you now have until Tuesday, August 31. That's one big change — and, thanks to another notable tweak to the scheme, you can also now redeem them for takeaway and delivery meals while lockdown is in effect. The NSW Government recommends getting your food delivered direct to your house by whichever restaurant or cafe you're ordering from, but you can also go and pick up your meal if you'd prefer. Crucially, though, the vouchers can only be redeemed if you're dealing with the eatery directly — so they can't be used on orders via third-party delivery platforms. [caption id="attachment_745527" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Parker Blain[/caption] By now, every NSW resident should know how the scheme works, but here's the basic details if you need a refresher. For the past few months, the State Government has been handing out food and entertainment vouchers to NSW residents, in an effort to boost patronage at hospitality businesses and cultural institutions that've suffered during the pandemic. Four vouchers are available to everyone in NSW over the age of 18 — two $25 vouchers to use at restaurants, cafes, clubs and other food venues, and another two $25 vouchers specifically for performing arts, cinemas, amusement parks and the like. The vouchers can be used at a hefty number of participating COVID-safe registered businesses, with the full list available on the Service NSW website. You can't use them on tobacco, alcohol or gambling, and you can only use each voucher once, including if your transaction totals less than $25. Also, you'll need to use all of your vouchers separately. To access the vouchers, you'll need a MyServiceNSW account — and the corresponding Service NSW app, so you can use the vouchers digitally. The NSW Government's Dine & Discover scheme will now run until Tuesday, August 31 — and Sydneysiders will be able to redeem their vouchers for takeaway orders during the city's lockdown. For more information, visit the government's website. Top image: Kitti Gould
New Zealand entrepreneur Hamish Dobbie is in the final rounds of a Kickstarter campaign to fund Yolkr, a rather nifty egg yolk separator. 'Finally', I hear you say, a simple and incredibly good looking kitchen tool for separating those whites from the yolk, without scattering shells throughout your 'egg'cellent kitchen creation. Having been tested by his 90 year old Grandfather, who has one eye, wears glasses and shakes somewhat, along with numerous others, the Yolkr project reached its Kickstarter goal within 5 days, and there are still 54 days remaining. Move over Number 8 wire, a new and revolutionary Kiwi invention has arrived. And it will change the way you make your omelette forever.
The year 2023 was a big one for Gelato Messina. The beloved dessert chain opened its huge Marrickville HQ and then three of the brand's head chefs added even more to their plates, teaming up and turning their attention to baked goods. Shadow Baking is the project of Messina chefs Tom Mitchell, Florian Fritsch and Remi Talbot. The trio linked up in 2022 to start working on flakey, buttery snacks to serve at The Cannery's monthly markets in their off-time from the Messina kitchen. Things went so well that they set up a standalone bakery in Darlinghurst. Open three days a week, the bakery is located next to the Victoria Road Messina outpost. From 8am Friday–Sunday, you can head in for the day's baked goods and sandwiches, available until they inevitably sell out. We're talking superb macadamia and mandarin croissants, custard tart danishes, and reuben croissant sandwiches. There's filter coffee for anyone looking for a caffeine fix to accompany their next-level baked snack of choice. Our pick is an unexpected highlight: the vegemite scroll, topped with creamy guacamole, fermented chilli and pecorino. It's an unusual combo but it's somehow an absolute match made in heaven. Tiny Shadow Bakery is yet another case of the Messina team's midas touch in action. They really can't miss.
Please note: This article contains descriptions of sexual misconduct. A shocking ABC investigation, published on September 4, revealed a culture of sexual exploitation, misogyny and failures of management at venues operated by hospitality heavyweight Merivale. Now, The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and Good Food have uncovered yet more troubling revelations about the hospo giant. A bombshell exposé, published on October 29, alleges that staff working at Merivale's exclusive members-only club, Level 6, located at the business' sprawling Ivy precinct in the CBD, were expected to "accommodate [the] advances" of wealthy patrons. In return, staff — who were often aged between 18 and 21 — could expect gifts of luxury goods such as designer handbags and hundreds of dollars in tips. "It was like a strip club with no one taking off their clothes," one former Level 6 staff member told The SMH, with another describing the venue as "One step away from being a brothel". [caption id="attachment_704747" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Level 6[/caption] Former staff alleged that this sexual quid pro quo intensified in 2013 when a pole-dancing pole was installed at Level 6. Around the same time, according to The SMH report, drug use by patrons became increasingly normalised and tolerated. Journalists Eryk Bagshaw and Bianca Hrovat claim they spoke to dozens of former Merivale employees during their investigation, but the vast majority of them only agreed to do so anonymously as they feared repercussions from the hugely influential hospitality employer. "They hire people very, very young. There are thousands of 18- to 21-year-old girls out there who are young, naive and sucked in by Merivale," one former manager told The SMH. "[They are] ushered into the cult and then … bad things start happening, and they feel like they can't say anything." The report alleges that on occasions when police attended Ivy, a "blue lights" warning would be shared to a staff WhatsApp group or via internal radio comms. A Merivale statement asserted that alerting staff to the presence of police was "standard industry practice", adding: "Every team member and especially our managers have duties under the law to assist police. They cannot do so if they are unaware of their presence on site." [caption id="attachment_814113" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ivy[/caption] One former host from Level 6 anonymously shared their experience of sexual assault in the workplace, saying a male patron "would grab you and throw you on the couch and put his hand up your skirt… He went underneath my clothes and grabbed my underwear." The same host said of her experiences working for Merivale, "I was disgusted. I couldn't believe it. This is my place of work and this is happening. You certainly didn't feel like you could do anything about it." The extensive reporting also detailed unsafe and abusive activities — including sexual misconduct and drug use — at several other Merivale venues, including cocktail bar Hemmesphere, Level 5 (the event space directly beneath Level 6 at Ivy), Felix and the Bondi outpost of Totti's. However, the report conceded that some former Merivale employees and guests who were interviewed for the article believed their access to drugs, exclusive venues and wealthy patrons were unofficial perks. [caption id="attachment_702661" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Totti's Bondi[/caption] While Merivale denies the allegations in the report, the company has engaged leading human rights and discrimination lawyer Kate Eastman, SC, to lead an investigation. A statement from Merivale added that if any of the allegations are found to be true, the company "regrets any distress caused." This latest reporting on Merivale echoes the seismic allegations The Sydney Morning Herald and Good Food published about Swillhouse Group, published on August 21. Anton Forte, the founder of Swillhouse Group, stepped down as the company's CEO on Friday, October 25, following months of attempted rehab, including hiring Justine Baker, a hospitality veteran and former CEO of Solotel, as well as two independent consultants, to oversee cultural reforms across the company. If you need to speak to someone about an experience you have had or are seeking information, please contact 1800Respect on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800respect.org.au.
Fun is in no short supply at Goros, Surry Hills' kitsch Japanese dive bar replete with yakitori, sake and vintage vinyl. Arcade games, DJs and three free (!!) karaoke rooms are just the tip of the iceberg, with a stacked lineup of entertainment on offer each week, including drag queen-hosted karaoke comps, themed parties and more. The staff will helpfully guide you through the sake menu, which is helpfully categorised by how much experience you have with the Japanese rice wine. You can opt for 90ml or 200ml pours or, for some, a full bottle. There's also a weighty Japanese whisky menu if that's more your speed, plus, alcoholic bubble teas, inventive cocktails and Goros' famous sake banger bombs. What about happy hour, we hear you ask? Every Wednesday through Friday from 5–7pm, Goros does $7 house spirits, beer and wine. Food-wise, expect a slew of fun Japanese favourites, designed to share. We're talking chicken karaage with yuzu mayo, okonomiyaki and gyoza (which, by the way, are only $1 each on Fridays). Yakitori and robatayaki options include teriyaki chicken, miso-marinated barramundi, glazed beef and pineapple and miso maple mushroom. The kitchen is open till late on Fridays and Saturdays — good news if you've worked up an appetite belting out your favourite tunes in the karaoke room (or on the d-floor).
Nothing short of a feast will be had at Al Asseel. This is the place to come with your nearest and dearest when you want to eat so much you can barely walk back to the car. Here, you'll find all the share-style dishes that make Lebanese cuisine a great choice for group meals. You'll want to make sure you order the dips such as baba ghanoush, hummus and garlic dip; finger food like vine leaves and falafel; and mains like shish tawook (grilled chicken), laham mishwi (grilled lamb), kofta and lamb shanks. For salads, think tabouli and Al Aseel's signature fattoush. And, you'll of course want some flatbreads to soak up all the dip and sauces. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
If you're one of the scores of Aussie teens who devoured smash-hit flick 10 Things I Hate About You when it first came out — and then about a million times on VHS since — prepare to feel positively elderly. The 1999 movie is about to celebrate its 20th anniversary. Yep, the modern day retelling of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew that had us all swooning over Heath Ledger is a whole two decades old. And what better way to mark that occasion, than a special outdoor screening of the timeless high school tale? Moonlight Cinema has added a special throwback showing of 10 Things I Hate About You to its schedule, set to grace the Centennial Park screen this Friday, March 15. Prepare to revisit all those late 90s feels, as you catch those classic movie moments, from the cheer-worthy smashing of Joey Donner's car to that pre-formal pregnancy suit. You can pack your own picnic and booze for this BYO session — Ms Perky would definitely recommend bratwurst — or make the most of Moonlight Cinema's food truck and pop-up bar.
A post-apocalyptic, three-part journey inspired by The Simpsons. A provocative Indigenous rom-com. A ham funeral. Autumn wields quite a hefty stash of theatre for Sydneysiders, so we've picked the shows you should focus your attention on. Some are made to make you chortle, others are downright disturbing, and they're the best on stage this month.
In 2021, the Golden Globes are taking place more than a month later than usual. The awards are also staging a different kind of ceremony than normal, with hosts Tina Fey and Amy Poehler steering the show from separate cities, and Zoom certain to feature heavily. Still, the first big event of this year's film and television awards season definitely knows how to get everyone talking — about its achievements and inclusions, as well as its snubs. The nominations for the 2021 Golden Globes were announced in the early hours of Thursday, February 4, Australian and New Zealand time, and they made history. For the first time ever, three women were nominated for Best Director, with Nomadland's Chloe Zhao, One Night in Miami's Regina King and Promising Young Woman's Emerald Fennell all getting a nod. If you're wondering how monumental this is, the Globes has never nominated more than one woman in the category in a single year, and it has only given out seven nominations to female filmmakers — yes, in total — in its 77-year history before now. David Fincher's Mank picked up the most amount of nods in the film categories, with six, but other highlights include Chadwick Boseman's nod for Best Actor in a Motion Picture — Drama for Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, Riz Ahmed's nomination in the same category for Sound of Metal, the filmed version of Hamilton picking up two nods in the comedy fields (including Lin-Manuel Miranda's nomination for Best Actor in a Motion Picture — Comedy), and Sacha Baron Cohen getting a look for both Borat Subsequent Moviefilm (in the Best Actor in a Motion Picture — Comedy category) and The Trial of the Chicago 7 (Best Supporting Actor). Borat's breakout star Maria Bakalova also earned a nomination (for Best Actress in a Motion Picture — Comedy), too, becoming the first Bulgarian actor to do so. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Rsa4U8mqkw The Globes also recognise TV, which is good news for the likes of Unorthodox, The Great and The Mandalorian, all of which received some love. There's a big omission in 2021's nods, however, with Michaela Coel's exceptional I May Destroy You — the best new show of 2020 hands down — absolutely nowhere to be seen. Instead, The Crown came out on top with six nominations, and everything from Normal People and Small Axe to Lovecraft Country and The Flight Attendant earned some attention. Aussie actors Nicole Kidman and Cate Blanchett also scored nods in the television fields, thanks to The Undoing and Mrs America. Every list of nominees for every awards ceremony has gaps, of course, and I May Destroy You isn't alone in missing out at this year's Globes. In the movie fields, Spike Lee's Da 5 Bloods was also completely overlooked — as was Zendaya's performance in Malcolm & Marie and the entire cast of Minari. In the TV categories , the Globes didn't sink its teeth into What We Do in the Shadows at all, and barely paid Better Call Saul any attention either. If you're wondering who else is actually up for an award, though, you'll find the full list of nominees below. And, as for who'll emerge victorious, that'll be announced on Monday, March 1 Australian and New Zealand time. GOLDEN GLOBE NOMINEES 2021: BEST MOTION PICTURE — DRAMA The Father Mank Nomadland Promising Young Woman The Trial of the Chicago 7 BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE — DRAMA Carey Mulligan — Promising Young Woman Frances McDormand — Nomadland Vanessa Kirby — Pieces of a Woman Viola Davis — Ma Rainey's Black Bottom Andra Day — The United States vs Billie Holiday BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE — DRAMA Riz Ahmed — Sound of Metal Chadwick Boseman — Ma Rainey's Black Bottom Anthony Hopkins — The Father Gary Oldman — Mank Tahar Rahim — The Mauritanian BEST MOTION PICTURE — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Borat Subsequent Moviefilm Hamilton Music Palm Springs The Prom BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Maria Bakalova — Borat Subsequent Moviefilm Kate Hudson — Music Michelle Pfeiffer — French Exit Rosamund Pike — I Care a Lot Anya Taylor-Joy — Emma BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Sacha Baron Cohen — Borat Subsequent Moviefilm James Corden — The Prom Lin-Manuel Miranda — Hamilton Dev Patel — The Personal History of David Copperfield Andy Samberg — Palm Springs BEST MOTION PICTURE — ANIMATED The Croods: A New Age Onward Over the Moon Soul Wolfwalkers BEST MOTION PICTURE — FOREIGN LANGUAGE Another Round La Llorona The Life Ahead Minari Two of Us BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN ANY MOTION PICTURE Jodie Foster — The Mauritanian Olivia Colman — The Father Glenn Close — Hillbilly Elegy Amanda Seyfried — Mank Helena Zengel — News of the World BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN ANY MOTION PICTURE Sacha Baron Cohen — The Trial of the Chicago 7 Daniel Kaluuya — Judas and the Black Messiah Jared Leto — The Little Things Bill Murray — On the Rocks Leslie Odom, Jr — One Night in Miami BEST DIRECTOR — MOTION PICTURE David Fincher — Mank Regina King — One Night in Miami Aaron Sorkin — The Trial of the Chicago 7 Chloe Zhao — Nomadland Emerald Fennell — Promising Young Woman BEST SCREENPLAY — MOTION PICTURE The Father Mank Nomadland Promising Young Woman The Trial of the Chicago 7 BEST ORIGINAL SCORE — MOTION PICTURE The Midnight Sky Tenet News of the World Mank Soul BEST ORIGINAL SONG — MOTION PICTURE 'Fight for You' — Judas and the Black Messiah 'Io Si' — The Life Ahead 'Speak Now' — One Night in Miami 'Hear My Voice' — The Trial of the Chicago 7 'Tigress & Tweed' — The US v Billie Holiday BEST TELEVISION SERIES — DRAMA Ratched Ozark The Crown Lovecraft Country The Mandalorian BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES — DRAMA Emma Corrin — The Crown Olivia Colman — The Crown Jodie Comer — Killing Eve Laura Linney — Ozark Sarah Paulson — Ratched BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES — DRAMA Jason Bateman — Ozark Josh O'Connor — The Crown Bob Odenkirk — Better Call Saul Al Pacino — Hunters Matthew Rhys — Perry Mason BEST TELEVISION SERIES — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Emily in Paris The Flight Attendant Schitt's Creek The Great Ted Lasso BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Lily Collins — Emily in Paris Kaley Cuoco — The Flight Attendant Elle Fanning — The Great Catherine O'Hara — Schitt's Creek Jane Levy — Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Don Cheadle — Black Monday Nicholas Hoult — The Great Eugene Levy — Schitt's Creek Jason Sudeikis — Ted Lasso Ramy Youssef — Ramy BEST TELEVISION LIMITED SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION Normal People The Queen's Gambit Small Axe The Undoing Unorthodox BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES OR A MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION Cate Blanchett — Mrs America Daisy Edgar-Jones — Normal People Shira Haas — Unorthodox Nicole Kidman — The Undoing Anya Taylor-Joy — The Queen's Gambit BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES OR A MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION Bryan Cranston — Your Honor Jeff Daniels — The Comey Rule Hugh Grant — The Undoing Ethan Hawke — The Good Lord Bird Mark Ruffalo — I Know This Much Is True BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, LIMITED SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION Cynthia Nixon — Ratched Gillian Anderson — The Crown Helena Bonham Carter — The Crown Julia Garner — Ozark Annie Murphy — Schitt's Creek BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, LIMITED SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TV John Boyega — Small Axe Brendan Gleeson — The Comey Rule Dan Levy — Schitt's Creek Jim Parsons — Hollywood Donald Sutherland — The Undoing The 2021 Golden Globes take place on Monday, March 1 Australian and New Zealand time. For further details, head to the awards' website. Top image: The Crown, Des Willie/Netflix.
Australia doesn't have many famous figures that are referred to by their first names alone, but Margaret and David are definitely two of them. Yes, they have full names — Margaret Pomeranz and David Stratton — but when you're on TV together for almost three decades, and you're as entertaining to watch as this pair, those surnames just fall away. It has been six years since their second film review series, the ABC's At the Movies, finished up in 2014. It started in 2004, and followed their previous program, The Movie Show, which aired on SBS from 1986–2004. Both Margaret and David have still been active as film critics since, but not together — until satirical news site The Shovel asked them to reunite on-screen to share their thoughts on the past 12 months as part of the Chaser-produced digital War on 2020. No, they don't review movies from the past year, although Christopher Nolan's Tenet gets a mention. Rather, they use their familiar style — including their bickering and bantering — to discuss just how ridiculous 2020 has been. David is disappointed all round, noting how little sense it all makes, while Margaret finds it quite humorous. So, as fans of the pair will know, it's classic Margaret and David, right down to the contrasting star ratings. That's the point, of course, but it's still very amusing to watch. You can view the clip below — and here's hoping that if Margaret and David repeat the feat in 2021, they have something brighter to argue about. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJHUxHQxI9A
There's always something happening in New South Wales, no matter what time of the year. So whether you're a local looking for extravagant summertime surf carnivals on the coast or an interstater on the hunt for cosy winter festivities, there's something for everyone. So why not get a weekend getaway on the books? We've scoured the calendar for festivities taking place across the state, and here's our round-up of the outdoor events. Depending on where you go, you'll need some sunscreen, a good jumper or a couple of napkins. Adventure awaits.
For plenty of Australians, a piece of toast isn't complete unless it's slathered with Vegemite. For others, musk sticks are a go-to sweet treat and always have been. Of course, what one person eats for breakfast or dessert, another considers gross, with both Aussie favourites earning a place in Sweden's new Disgusting Food Museum. Now open in Malmö, the museum does indeed feature Vegemite and musk sticks, as well as a third Australian item: witchetty grubs. Beyond much-loved but highly polarising Australian spreads and sweets, everything within the site's walls is considered food somewhere. Think Sweden's own surstömming, aka fermented herring; cuy, the Peruvian roasted guinea pigs; casu marzu, a maggot-infested cheese from Sardinia; hákarl, the Icelandic dish comprised of well-aged shark; and Thailand's notoriously pungent durian. In total, 80 foods from around the world are on display until January 27, with liquorice, jell-o salad, fruit bat and bull's penis among the other exhibits. For an entry fee of 185 Swedish krona (approximately AU$29), visitors can also smell and taste selected items. Plus, the museum holds 'taste one for the team' sessions for groups of six or more, where you can challenge your friends to the kinds of tastings that you don't get every day. If you're currently asking yourself the obvious question — not 'what's wrong with Vegemite?', but rather 'what would inspire someone to open this kind of place?' — the Disgusting Food Museum is all about challenging accepted ideas of what's edible and tasty. It recognises that what one person finds delicious, another might find revolting and vice-versa. Speaking to Vox, curator and 'chief disgustologist' Samuel West specifically uses Vegemite as an example, explaining that it initially tastes awful, but you can learn to like it. Find the Disgusting Food Museum in Malmö, Sweden from October 29. For more information or to buy tickets, visit the museum's website or Facebook page. Via ABC.
Chatkazz is a culinary gem that delivers a truly special eating experience. The term means "spicy and delicious", and that's exactly what you're bound to find. The restaurant specialises in street food and farsan (salty snacks) that'll transport you directly to India. Order off the Mumbai Roadside Special menu to try the best of the bunch — think pani puri (crispy puffed bread stuffed with black chana and potato, served with tamarind chutney), pav bhaji (cheese-topped spicy vegetable curry served with onion salad and papadam) and paneer tava pulav (paneer and veggie fried rice served with raita and papadam). Or if you're feeling festive, order in a group to get a bit of everything and share it around. And don't stop at mains. Chatkazz's take on traditional Mumbai roadside sweets span from traditional to westernised. Take your pick from gajar halwa, made with carrots and dried fruit; gulab jamun, deep-fried balls made from milk solids soaked in sugar syrup; ras malai, a small flat paneer cake soaked in sweetened milk and nuts; and shrikhand kesar elaichi, a sweetened creamy curd with saffron and cardamom. If you're craving something less traditional, opt for chocolate pizza or a sizzling brownie, both served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzled with chocolate syrup, or one of the house-made pastries. Check out the sister venue at Bella Vista for more of the same eclectic and vibrant takes on modern Indian cuisine. [caption id="attachment_778186" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] Top image: Nikki To
Before the pandemic, when a new-release movie started playing in cinemas, audiences couldn't watch it on streaming, video on demand, DVD or blu-ray for a few months. But with the past few years forcing film industry to make quite a few changes — widespread movie theatre closures will do that, and so will plenty of people staying home because they aren't well — that's no longer always the case. Maybe you haven't had time to make it to your local cinema lately. Perhaps you've been under the weather. Given the hefty amount of titles now releasing each week, maybe you simply missed something. Film distributors have been fast-tracking some of their new releases from cinemas to streaming recently — movies that might still be playing in theatres in some parts of the country, too. In preparation for your next couch session, here are nine that you can watch right now at home. LIMBO When Ivan Sen sent a police detective chasing a murdered girl and a missing woman in the Australian outback in 2013's Mystery Road and its 2016 sequel Goldstone, he saw the country's dusty, rust-hued expanse in sun-bleached and eye-scorching colour. In the process, the writer, director, co-producer, cinematographer, editor and composer used his first two Aussie noir films and their immaculately shot sights to call attention to how the nation treats people of colour — historically since its colonial days and still now well over two centuries later. Seven years after the last Jay Swan movie, following a period that's seen that character make the leap to the small screen in three television seasons, Sen is back with a disappearance, a cop, all that inimitable terrain and the crimes against its Indigenous inhabitants that nothing can hide. Amid evident similarities, there's a plethora of differences between the Mystery Road franchise and Limbo; however, one of its simplest is also one of its most glaring and powerful: shooting Australia's ochre-toned landscape in black and white. Limbo's setting: Coober Pedy in reality, but the fictional locale that shares its name on-screen. It unmistakably sports an otherworldly topography dotted by dugouts to avoid the baking heat, and hasn't been able to overcome the murder of a local Indigenous girl two decades earlier. The title is symbolic several times over, including to the visiting Travis Hurley (Simon Baker, Blaze), whose first task upon arrival is checking into his subterranean hotel, rolling up his sleeves and indulging his heroin addiction. Later, he'll be told that he looks more like a drug dealer than a police officer — but, long before then, it's obvious that his line of work and the sorrows he surveys along the way have kept him hovering in a void. While he'll also unburden a few biographical details about mistakes made and regrets held before the film comes to an end, this tattooed cop with wings inked onto his back is already in limbo before he's literally in Limbo. Limbo is available to stream via ABC iView and Prime Video. Read our full review. RENFIELD It's a bloody glorious setup: Nicolas Cage, actor of a million unmissable facial expressions, star of almost every movie he's asked to be in (or so it can seem) and wannabe bloodsucker in 1988's must-be-seen-to-be-believed Vampire's Kiss, playing the dark one, the lord of death, the one and only Dracula. In Renfield, that stellar idea makes for frequently bloody viewing — cartoonishly, befitting an OTT horror-comedy with Nicolas Cage as Dracula. And the pièce de résistance that is Cage getting his fangs out as the Bram Stoker-created character, who was inspired by the IRL 15th-century Wallachian prince Vlad the Impaler? It is indeed glorious. The Transylvanian is the latest part he was born for, after stepping into his own shoes in The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, getting revenge over a pet pig in Pig, milking alpacas in Color Out of Space and screaming while dousing himself in vodka in Mandy (and, well, most things on his four-decade resume). Some movies have learned a simple truth, however: that putting Nicolas Cage in front of a camera and letting him unleash whatever version of Cage the film needs isn't always enough. That disappointment is usually on everything but Cage (see: his entrancing work in the otherwise average-if-lucky Willy's Wonderland, where he wordlessly battled demonic animatronics and made viewers wish he was around in the silent era), but Renfield has pre-emptively staked that lesson through its own heart. As the title makes plain, Cage's Dracula isn't the lead character. Instead, the long-suffering, insect-eating servant played by the feature's other welcome Nic, The Great's Nicholas Hoult, is in the sunlight. Accordingly, The Lego Batman Movie and Robot Chicken director Chris McKay doesn't even try to get his feature by on the Cageness of it all alone. That's a miscalculation. In fact, it's up there with the flick's Robert Montague Renfield pledging allegiance to the vampire that started all vampire obsessions. Renfield is at full power when Cage is front and centre, and feels like its blood is slowly being drained when he's out of the frame. Renfield is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. INFINITY POOL Making his latest body-horror spectacle an eat-the-rich sci-fi satire as well, Brandon Cronenberg couldn't have given Infinity Pool a better title. Teardowns of the wealthy and entitled now seem to flow on forever, glistening endlessly against the film and television horizon; however, the characters in this particularly savage addition to the genre might wish they were in The White Lotus or Succession instead. In those two hits, having more money than sense doesn't mean witnessing your own bloody execution but still living to tell the tale. It doesn't see anyone caught up in cloning at its most vicious and macabre, either. And, it doesn't involve dipping into a purgatory that sports the Antiviral and Possessor filmmaker's penchant for futuristic corporeal terrors, as clearly influenced by his father David Cronenberg (see: Crimes of the Future, Videodrome and The Fly), while also creating a surreal hellscape that'd do Twin Peaks great David Lynch, Climax's Gaspar Noe and The Neon Demon's Nicolas Winding Refn proud. Succession veteran Alexander Skarsgård plunges into Infinity Pool's torments playing another member of the one percent, this time solely by marriage. "Where are we?", author James Foster asks his wife Em (Cleopatra Coleman, Dopesick) while surveying the gleaming surfaces, palatial villas and scenic beaches on the fictional island nation of Li Tolqa — a question that keeps silently pulsating throughout the movie, and also comes tinged with the reality that James once knew a life far more routine than this cashed-up extravagance. Cronenberg lets his query linger from the get-go, with help from returning Possessor cinematographer Karim Hussain. Within minutes, the feature visually inverts its stroll through its lavish setting, the camera circling and lurching. As rafters spin into view, then tumble into the pristine sky, no one in this film's frames is in Kansas anymore. Then, when fellow guest Gabi (Mia Goth, Pearl) gets James and Em into a tragic accident, which is followed by arrests, death sentences and a wild get-out-of-jail-free situation, no one is anywhere they want to be, either. Infinity Pool is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. FAST X If you don't believe that Fast X will be one of the Fast and Furious franchise's last films, which you shouldn't, then it's time to face a different realisation. Now 22 years old, this family-, street racing- and Corona-loving "cult with cars" saga — its own words in this latest instalment — might one day feature every actor ever in its always-expanding cast. Dying back in 2013 hasn't stopped Paul Walker from regularly appearing a decade on. He's the first of the core F&F crew to be seen in Fast X, in fact, thanks to a flashback to 2011's Fast Five that explains why the series' flamboyant new villain has beef with the usual Vin Diesel (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3)-led faces. Playing said antagonist is Jason Momoa (Dune), who adds another high-profile name to a roster that also gains Brie Larson (Ms Marvel), Rita Moreno (West Side Story), Daniela Melchior (The Suicide Squad), Alan Ritchson (Reacher) and Walker's daughter Meadow this time around. It's no wonder that this 11th flick in the franchise (yes spinoff Hobbs & Shaw counts) clocks in at an anything-but-swift 141 minutes. It's also hardly surprising that living on-screen life a quarter mile at a time now seems more like a variety show than a movie, at least where all that recognisable talent is involved. There are so many people to stuff into Fast X that most merely get wheeled out for their big moment or, if they're lucky, a couple. Some bring comedy (the long-running double act that is End of the Road's Ludacris and Morbius' Tyrese Gibson), others steely glares and frenetic fight scenes (The School for Good and Evil and Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves' always-welcome Charlize Theron and Michelle Rodriguez, respectively), or just reasons to keep bringing up Walker's retired Brian O'Conner (which is where Who Invited Charlie?'s Jordana Brewster still fits in). When more than a few actors pop up, it feels purely obligatory, like the F&F realm just can't exist now without a glimpse of Jason Statham's (Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre) scowl or getting Helen Mirren (Shazam! Fury of the Gods) going cockney. Fast X is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. YOU HURT MY FEELINGS When Seinfeld was the world's biggest sitcom, the show about nothing was also about everything. Its quartet of yada, yada, yada-ing New Yorkers was oh-so-specific, too, but also relatable. It's no wonder that the 90s hit made a star out of Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who ensured that Elaine Benes was a work of comedic genius — with a Best Supporting Actress Emmy and six other nominations to show for it — and someone who could've walked straight in off the street. In razor-sharp political farce Veep, the actor did much the same to ample accolades. Making a Vice President in a gleeful satire feel real is no mean feat. But Louis-Dreyfus is at her best, and a true sensation, whenever she's in leading-lady mode in front of writer/director Nicole Holofcener's lens. That's only happened twice so far; however, both 2013's Enough Said and now 2023's You Hurt My Feelings are as excellent as engaging, lived-in and astute character-led dramedies come. Holofcener's preferred type of tales rarely get a silver-screen run in these days of blockbuster franchises, endless sequels and remakes, and ever-sprawling cinematic universes. That battle earns an in-script parallel in You Hurt My Feelings, with novelist Beth (Louis-Dreyfus, You People) also struggling. Her first book, a memoir about her childhood with an emotionally abusive dad, didn't notch up the sales she would've liked. At lunches between Beth, her sister Sarah (Michaela Watkins, The Dropout) and their mother Georgia (Jeannie Berlin, Hunters), the latter still protests about how it was marketed. And, when she finally submits a draft of her next tome after toiling for years, Beth's editor (LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Grey's Anatomy) isn't as enthused. None of these situations give the movie its name, though, which stems from Beth's therapist husband Don (Tobias Menzies, This Way Up) and his opinion. When she overhears him tell her brother-in-law Mark (Arian Moayed, Succession) that he isn't that fussed about the new text, it's shattering, especially when he's been nothing but her heartiest cheerleader otherwise. You Hurt My Feelings is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. THE INSPECTION If war is hell, then military boot camp is purgatory. So told Full Metal Jacket, with Stanley Kubrick's masterpiece making that observation echo and pierce with the relentlessness of machine-gun fire. Now, The Inspection stresses the same point nearing four decades later, plunging into the story of a gay Black man enlisting, then navigating the nightmare that is basic training. This too is a clear-eyed step inside the United States Marine Corps, but drawn from first-time fictional feature filmmaker Elegance Bratton's own experiences. New Yorker Ellis French (Jeremy Pope, One Night in Miami) is the Pier Kids documentarian's on-screen alter ego — an out queer man who has spent a decade from his teens to his mid-20s homeless after being kicked out by his ashamed mother Inez (Gabrielle Union, Strange World), and pledges his post 9/11 freedom away for a place to fit in, even if that means descending into a world of institutional homophobia and racism. It would've been easy for Bratton to just sear and scorch in The Inspection; his film is set in 2005, "don't ask, don't tell" was still the US military forces' policy and discrimination against anyone who isn't a straight white man is horrendously brutal. Life being moulded into naval-infantry soldiers is savage anyway; "our job is not to make Marines, it's to make monsters," says Leland Laws (Bokeem Woodbine, Wu-Tang: An American Saga), Ellis' commanding officer and chief state-sanctioned tormentor. And yet, crafting a film that's as haunting as it is because it's supremely personal, Bratton never shies away from Ellis' embrace of the Marines in his quest to work out how he can be himself. There's nothing simple about someone signing up for such heartbreaking anguish because that's the only option that they can imagine, but this stunning movie is anything but simple. The Inspection is available to stream via iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review.. SWEET AS On the silver screen, Australia's golden landscape is frequently the place where pain dwells. Even when spinning fiction, films such as Mystery Road, Goldstone, Sweet Country, High Ground, The Furnace and The Survival of Kindness scorch reality's horrors and heartbreaks into celluloid with ample help from an ochre-hued backdrop that can only belong to the land Down Under. In Sweet As, the red earth of Western Australia's Pilbara region similarly couldn't be more pivotal; however, this coming-of-age drama from first-time feature director and writer Jub Clerc (The Heights) — who previously contributed segments to anthology movies The Turning and Dark Whispers: Volume 1, draws upon her own adolescent experiences for her full-length debut, and crafts the first WA flick that's helmed and penned by an Indigenous female filmmaker — deploys its patch of Aussie soil as a place where teenagers find themselves. Murra (Shantae Barnes-Cowan, Firebite) is one of Sweet As' adolescents learning to be shutterbugs, albeit not by choice. With her mother Grace (Ngaire Pigram, also a Firebite alum) grappling with addiction, the 16-year-old is traversing a path to child services' care when her police-officer uncle Ian (Mark Coles Smith, Mystery Road: Origin) enrols her on a trip that she doesn't initially want to take. With youth workers Mitch (Tasma Walton, How to Please a Woman) and Fernando (Carlos Sanson Jr, Bump) as their guides and chaperones, Murra, Kylie (newcomer Mikayla Levy), Elvis (Pedrea Jackson, Robbie Hood) and Sean (fellow first-timer Andrew Wallace) are soon hurtling into the outback on a minibus with cameras in their hands — to snap the sights away from their ordinary lives, and also step beyond everything that they know, form new friendships, gain a different perspective and gaze as intently at themselves as they do at the earth from behind a lens. Sweet As is available to stream via iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 3 Bickering and bantering. Battling all over space. Blasting retro tunes. That's Guardians of the Galaxy's holy trinity, no matter where its ragtag crew happens to be in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Since 2014's Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 1, Peter Quill aka Star-Lord (Chris Pratt, The Super Mario Bros Movie) and his pals have offered the MCU something shinier than the gold-hued Adam Warlock (Will Poulter, Dopesick): a reprieve from the ever-sprawling franchise's standard self-seriousness. Friends but really family, because Vin Diesel is involved, this superhero team got gleefully goofy in their initial big-screen outing, 2017 sequel Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 and 2022's straight-to-streaming The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special. They've popped up elsewhere across the comic-book film saga plying a sense of silliness, too. Welcomely, even when they're slipping into Avengers and Thor flicks, they've always felt like their own distinctive group surfing their own humorous but heartfelt wavelength, a power that isn't generally shared across Marvel's output. Arriving to close out the Guardians' standalone trilogy, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 zooms into the movie series' fifth phase with a difference: it's still a quippy comedy, but it's as much a drama and a tragedy as well. Like most on-screen GotG storylines, it's also heist caper — and as plenty of caped-crusader flicks are, within the MCU or not, it's an origin story. The more that a James Gunn-written and -directed Guardians film gets cosy within the usual Marvel template, however, the more that his branch of Marvel's pop-culture behemoth embraces its own personality. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 couldn't cling tighter to its needle drops, of course, which leap to the 90s and 00s this time and hit with all the subtlety of a Zune player being thrown at the audience. It also stuffs out its duration and over-packs its plot. But, the obligatory post-credits sting aside, this farewell to part of the MCU always feels like a zippy, self-contained Guardians of the Galaxy movie — including when it's also a touching dive into Rocket's (Bradley Cooper, Nightmare Alley) history — rather than a placeholder for more and more future franchise instalments. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. THE FLASH Living with your choices, and facing the fact that you can't always take back mistakes and fix traumas, fittingly sits at the heart of The Flash's narrative. While the Barry Allen (Ezra Miller, Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore) that audiences have also seen in Suicide Squad, Justice League and Shazam! enters The Flash calling himself "the janitor of the Justice League", answering Alfred's (Jeremy Irons, House of Gucci) calls to clean up Batman's (Ben Affleck, Air) chaos offers a handy distraction from his family situation. Understandably, he's still grief-stricken over his mother's (Maribel Verdú, Raymond & Ray) murder. He's also struggling to prove that his incarcerated father (Ron Livingston, A Million Little Things) wasn't the killer. Cue messing with the space-time continuum, using his super speed to dash backwards to stop his mum from dying — and, as Bruce Wayne warns, cuing the butterfly effect. Back to the Future devotees know what follows when someone tinkers with the past. The Flash director Andy Muschietti (IT, IT: Chapter Two) and screenwriter Christina Hodson (Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)) count on viewers being familiar with the consequences, and with the Michael J Fox-starring 80s classic. Amid navigating various iterations of its protagonist and, as revealed in its trailers, getting Michael Keaton (Morbius) back in the cape and cowl as the Dark Knight three decades after the last Tim Burton-helmed Batman flick — plus finding time for Supergirl (Sasha Calle, The Young and the Restless) — this DCEU entry splashes around its broader pop-culture nods with gusto. Given that was Gunn's tactic in Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy movies, right down to also mentioning Kevin Bacon and Footloose, perhaps Barry might have a DCU future after all? Whatever happens, The Flash's riffing on and namechecking other beloved films isn't its best trait. There are multiples of much in this movie, which includes multiple ways to slather on fan service. The Flash is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. Looking for more at-home viewing options? Take a look at our monthly streaming recommendations across new straight-to-digital films and TV shows — and fast-tracked highlights from January, February, March, April, May and June, too. You can also peruse our best new films, new TV shows, returning TV shows and straight-to-streaming movies of 2023 so far
Sky Bar boasts an open-air rooftop with top-notch city views. Those looking to gaze over Sydney while they enjoy their drink will be treated to floor-to-ceiling glass doors surrounding the bar. The doors fully retract, allowing for optimal appreciation of the urban vistas. But it's not just the views that are easy on the eye. An earth-tone ode to the art deco and Bauhaus movements, the rich interiors are a symphony of chevron stripes, varnished wood finishes, elegant floor tiles and plush lounges. Silhouette motifs in burnt orange and black adorn the walls, while an expansive island bar clad in multiple grains of wood dominates the main seating area. This is mid-century chic done right. On the menu here, you'll find tasty bar snacks, including pickled mussels, raw tuna and coal-roasted quail. If you're on the hunt for a more decadent experience, the Oscietra caviar service is truly luxe but will set you back $190. When it comes to drinks, the Sicilian Margarita has made its way up from Menzies Bar. However, there is a range of cocktails unique to Sky Bar. The Tenth Floor Fizz mixes whey gin, native peach, yuzu, amaro, rosé and soda; while the Cloony Tunes is a Casamigos Reposado, mezcal and pineapple creation.
First, Lune perfected croissants, so much so that the Australian bakery chain is renowned for its flaky pastries all round the world. Then came giving cruffins, aka croissant-muffin hybrids, a spin. For Easter, the obvious next step followed: hot cross cruffins, for when you want a hot cross bun, but you're also hankering for a croissant and a muffin — and you don't want to have to choose. Lune's hot cross cruffins have been popping up annually for years, but 2025's batch is different. This time, they're made using the acclaimed bakery's signature croissant dough. You can also pick between two varieties this year, too: the OG and chocolate. Can't decide which one, after being unable to select between hot cross buns, croissants and muffins to start with? You can get mixed packs featuring both. The hot cross cruffins hit Lune's shelves at all stores on Monday, April 7 — so at Armadale, Fitzroy and the CBD in Melbourne; South Brisbane and Burnett Lane in Brisbane; and Rosebery and Martin Place in Sydney. You've only got until Easter Monday to enjoy them, however. Lune is open every day across the Easter long weekend from 8am, and will either close at each store's regular time or earlier if everything is sold out prior. Single hot cross cruffins cost $10.50 each — or, you can also order pre-order those aforementioned six packs for $63, but you can only do so until Friday, April 18, and only for collection at Fitzroy, Armadale, South Brisbane and Rosebery. If you're a fruit hot cross bun fan all the way, Lune's hot cross cruffins feature dried fruit, candied peel, mixed spice and brown butter mousseline. For chocolate lovers, you're getting hot cross cruffins made with cocoa choc-chip croissant pastry and chocolate mousseline. Each features a cross on top, of course, but only the chocolate version boasts a cocoa cross. Also worth noting: that Lune has just launched an ongoing loyalty program for pastry fiends. Lune's Easter specials are available until Monday, April 21. Head to the brand's website — or to its stores at Armadale, Fitzroy and the CBD in Melbourne; South Brisbane and Burnett Lane in Brisbane; and Rosebery and Martin Place in Sydney — for more details. Images: Peter Dillon.
On November 24-25, the Sydney Opera House forecourt will transform into an outdoor stage for Dance Rites 2018. Now in its fourth year, this epic event is a First Nations dance competition starring more than 300 performers from all over the country. And it's free. Dance Rites was once part of the Opera House's Homeground Festival, but is now a stand-alone event. In addition to watching the heats from 3pm each day, and the finals on Sunday evening, catch an array of established dancers in action. Just some of the acts on the program include 2017 Dance Rites champs Kulgoodah Dancers, 2017 Wildcard Winners ALLKUMO Malpa Paman Dancers, professional troupe Muggera Dancers and, all the way from New Zealand, collective Te Rua Mauri. Check out, too, musical performances from electro poppers Electric Fieldson Saturday night and Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Sumner on Sunday. The Dance Rites 2018 winner, which is judged on three dances and decided upon by an expert panel of Juanita Duncan, Libby Collins, Matthew Doyle and Waangenga Blanco — will score a whopping $20,000, too. Images: Daniel Boud and Jacqui Cornforth.
Celebrity chef Manu Feildel is best known through his prime-time tenure judging My Kitchen Rules. Flipping the script, Sydneysiders now have the chance to judge Feildel's skills on the pans at his charming Inner West bistro. Occupying the upper level of the 196-year-old Red Lion Hotel in Rozelle, the restaurant is the centrepiece of a $1.5-million top-to-bottom renovation that took eight months to complete. For his return to a professional kitchen following a four-year hiatus, Fieldel—a sixth-generation chef—has created a menu of rustic French fare, including treasured recipes passed down through his family. Manu made the decision to return to the pass at the suggestion of his long-time friend and Laundy Hotels Group Executive Chef Jamie Gannon (pictured above). "I've worked with Jaime for a long time and I'd been saying to him for a while, if anything comes up that you think would work for us, let me know. Well, when the Red Lion renovation was being planned, he asked me what I thought about it, and I thought it would be the perfect place for this kind of bistro," Feildel tells Concrete Playground. "Plus, you know, I'm a sixth-generation chef — I've done a lot of things in between, a lot of amazing experiences, but I've missed it. I've missed this — being in the kitchen." Feildel's vision for the menu shuns flashy platings and chefy bells and whistles. "I want to make tasty food. Not stuff that just looks good, that you want to put on your Instagram, but food that tastes great. There's a lot of restaurants now that are so worried about the looks, they forget the pinch of salt on it, you know?" In addition to a handful of Fieldel family recipes, including his father's country terrine, diners will also find dishes from the chef's back catalogue, including the scallop boudin that was a firm favourite amongst regulars at Fieldel's Paddington bistro L'Etoile, which closed in 2014. However, the chef's greatest priority has been creating an offering that has crowd-pleasing appeal. France's greatest comfort foods feature prominently, including a double-baked comté cheese soufflé designed for sharing and a quintessential French onion soup, served with the obligatory gruyère-topped croutons. Carnivores are well served with hunger-busting mains such as the pork tomahawk, chargrilled and served with braised fennel and silky mustard sauce and of course, steaks — here, you can carve into a butcher's cut of beef accompanied by pommes dauphine and house-made sauces including peppercorn, mushroom and blue cheese. There are also riffs on the classics. Rather than the traditional duck, confit chicken ("Because everyone loves chicken," Fieldel explains) is served on a bed of cannellini beans with and kale fricasée and a citrusy jus gras that adds a sparkling foil to the richness of the meat. Instead of the expected crêpes, flambéed canelés — the cork-shaped Bordeaux-famous pastry — get the Suzette treatment, served with vanilla ice cream. Much like the menu, the 120-seat bistro doesn't aim to wow with opulent decor. Instead, expect the cosy vibes of a humble Parisian bistro. Amidst a muted palette of creams, egg-shell blue, taupe and the rich caramel stain of the extensive wood panelling, pops of colour from modern artworks and other objets d'art add some playful winks that echo the restaurant's relaxed, unpretentious ethos. The restored wrap-around balcony boasts some of the most prized tables in the restaurant, offering year-round al fresco dining overlooking Darling Street — the ideal spot for a long lazy lunch or a group dinner. Images: Kitti Gould
The perfect blend of eastern suburbs bougieness meets inner city living, Paddington has long been a destination for art, culture and fine dining. Visitors and locals alike are sure to enjoy a day of ambling along Sydney's iconic Oxford Street exploring the bars, shops, cafes, galleries and cinemas that call the leafy suburb home. On the hunt for something specific? To make things a little easier for you, we've teamed up with American Express to put together a shortlist of places both new and old that should be your first port of call, no matter the occasion.
Under the theme of Only One Earth, the 2022 edition of World Environment Day lands on Sunday, June 5. An annual occurrence since its inception in 1973, the United Nations Environment Programme initiative calls on people from all walks of life to consider the impact they have on the planet, and works to raise awareness, inspire change and celebrate action. One such action is the NSW Government's Return and Earn scheme, which provides an action-based solution for anyone to responsibly dispose of the bottles, cans and cartons we all generate as our thirst is quenched during day-to-day escapades. And it couldn't be more simple, either. First step: collect your recyclables (after making sure they're accepted). Next: find a return spot near you (there are over 600 throughout NSW), transport yourself there and get returning. Choose between a refund or charitable donation and that's it — you're taking steps towards making the planet better for all. At the time of writing, 7,504,250,101 drink containers have been returned via the program — and over $30 million has been received by charities and community groups. These whopping numbers are illustrative of the powerful impact of small actions. And if you wanted some slightly more personal stats, check out the handy impact calculator, which allows you to see the direct impact your returning has on water, energy and landfill. What better time to start doing good with your recyclables than World Environment Day? Head to the website to find out more.
Vegan and deli may not be two words you put together, but perhaps you haven't been to Shift. Meet Shift Eatery, Sydney's first vegan deli. Opened on Commonwealth Street in September 2017, Shift is a sleek cafe and shop specialising in hearty, healthy food, sans animal products. The idea for the store was spawned by owner James Danaskos's own turn to veganism a few years back and his desire to create more places for people looking to eat less or no meat. The cafe has everything you would expect from a concept cafe in the age of Instagram: lattes of every hue (pink pitaya unicorn, blue pea, green matcha and golden turmeric), smoothie bowls and picture-perfect vegan sweets courtesy of Treat Dreams and Nutie. But outside of the colourful treats, the main food menu is a goldmine of casual, vegan fare. The sandwich and toastie menu features vegan twists on traditional sambos — ham and cheese, tuna and mayo and Steve, the Reuben's vegan brother stuffed with corned 'beef', pickles, kraut, cheese and russian dressing — with a few pun-filled monikers thrown in for good measure, like the No Whey Jose made up of Cuban 'ham', pulled jackfruit, vegan cheese and housemade sauce. Like any true deli, Shift is also stocked with ingredients to takeaway including kimchi, granola and vegan ice cream pints.
The internet may have delivered on its promise of infinite information, available at any point in time. But there's no substitute for sinking into the couch with a good book. There's also nothing like discovering a new read at your local bookshop. So, we've tracked down some of the best Sydney bookshops to help you find your next great read. Despite ebooks, online book companies and Netflix, these independent Sydney booksellers are still winning bundles of readers' love with their quirky collections, smart recommendations and cosy nooks. And don't worry, a heap of them are set up to deliver your next great read direct to your door.
Following a transformation of its ground-level space into a fancy French bistro, The Strand Hotel has relaunched its rooftop bar, dubbed Kasbah. Located on William Street among heritage-listed and brutalist gems of Darlinghurst and Wolloomolloo, Kasbah's rooftop bar consists of a sun-soaked courtyard, Balearic tunes, cosy terracotta lounges, luxe Persian rugs and vibrant patterned tiling, which draw inspiration from Marrakesh's pastel tones. For bites, Kasbah serves French and Moroccan-inspired fusion cuisine in the form of grazing plates to the tune of ginger, turmeric and coriander-spiced tiger prawns. To pair, there's an array of Mediterranean-leaning cocktails like The Silk Road and Ficus and a short offering of natural wines. Each weekend, the rooftop hosts DJ sets and live entertainment. Plus, once the in-house DJs wrap up, anyone looking to kick on until the early hours of the morning can then head down to the newly refurbished Club 77, just a few doors down. "Leigh and the team have the expertise to provide a renewed experience in food and service across Strand Bistrothèque and Kasbah upstairs on the rooftop," said Wells."You'll be able to make your day or night whatever you want it to be at The Strand." The walk-in-only bar is complete with a retractable roof, meaning it can accommodate big doses of Vitamin D when needed or a shady place to escape the sun during summer. Just ensure your footwear is staircase-ready, as the only way to get up to the roof is to ascend the hotel's multiple levels on foot. Head to 99 William Street, Darlinghurst, to check out the new and improved pub. For further information and operating hours, head to The Strand Hotel's website. Image credit: Parker Blain Updated, October 25, 2023 Appears in: The Best Rooftop Bars in Sydney
While everyone's been wining and dining in Surry Hills, Darlinghurst and Newtown, Crows Nest has been sitting on one of Sydney's best-kept foodie secrets. Hailing itself as "the best dining experience north of the bridge" (big call), Annata brings inventive Italian dishes from an exciting young chef and an unbridled love of wine to its humble neighbourhood surrounds. Unlike many of the other long, narrow spaces on Willoughby Road, this one doesn't sell hand soaps or cardigans. Instead, you'll find a hatted brick-walled wine cave serving seasonal produce-driven food with a perfectly paired drop patiently waiting. Owner John Bligh brought his passion for hospitality to the restaurant when he took over operations during the pandemic, pushing the menu to more intriguing places with the help of the new Head Chef Jordan Garcia. Garcia's menu changes every six weeks, ensuring it's built around fresh seasonal produce, delivered daily. Italian sensibilities run through the dishes, but the Anatta team isn't afraid to stray from the classics. While each time you visit, you'll be presented with a fresh selection of eats, you'll be treated with a mix of the expected — like marinated olives, Bass Strait beef tartare or ricotta and chilli fregola — and the unique — like toast soldiers with smoked eel, coffee-cured ocean trout or Japanese cheesecake. The simplest way to approach the menu is to opt for the five-course sampler which guides you through that six-week period top picks for $95, or $185 with wine pairings. If you can afford it, the wine pairings are a must — this is a haven for one of the most impressive collections of bottles on this side of the bridge. Whether you decide to indulge in the pairing experience or just after a solitary glass, Restaurant Manager and Sommelier Cisco Ramirez and the Annata staff can guide you through the possibly intimidating 250+ wine list personally curated by Ramirez. Bligh's ownership has also brought with it a push for Annata to be a neighbourhood mingling spot, introducing events like the Wine Lover's Club tasting afternoons, regular wine-driven degustations highlight drops from specific regions, and Chef's Tuesday Tasting, at which you can be the first to sample the latest dishes Ramirez has been whipping up. Adding further to the community feel is the ongoing art auction running on the walls of Annata. Bligh and the team invite local artists to exhibit their works in the restaurant with price tags, so if you see a piece you like as you're enjoying your duck breast, you can take it home with you.
Home meal delivery providers HelloFresh and Youfoodz are in hot water with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), with the popular services accused of misleading customers over their subscription and cancellation terms. With legal proceedings underway, the ACCC claims that both HelloFresh and Youfoodz breached Australian Consumer Law by advertising that consumers could easily cancel subscriptions using their online account settings before a specified cut-off time. However, the watchdog suggests the reality was much different, with consumers only able to cancel the first delivery if they spoke with a customer service representative. Meanwhile, the ACCC statement says many customers were still charged for their first delivery after they'd attempted to cancel. "Despite what HelloFresh and Youfoodz represented to new Australian subscribers, tens of thousands of consumers were charged for their first order, even though they cancelled their subscription before the cut-off date," said ACCC Commissioner Luke Woodward. There were also widespread complaints about customers unknowingly signing up for subscriptions. Here, the ACCC alleges that HelloFresh required consumers to provide payment details to view the service's meal selection. When consumers visited the page, they were unaware they had entered into an ongoing subscription and were charged for a first delivery. Following the Australian government's recent announcement of a crackdown on misleading cancellation policies and so-called subscription traps, draft legislation is expected to arrive in early 2026. In the meantime, the ACCC is seeking compensation orders for affected consumers from HelloFresh and YouFoodz. For more information, head to the ACCC website to read the full statement.
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 in January (and yes, we're assuming you've already watched Kaleidoscope in whichever order you preferred). BRAND NEW STUFF YOU CAN WATCH IN FULL NOW COPENHAGEN COWBOY Ten years ago, Nicolas Winding Refn released his second Ryan Gosling-starring film in succession, won his second Sydney Film Festival Prize, and was a reliable source of dazzling and blisteringly atmospheric crime fare thanks to Drive and Only God Forgives — and also the Pusher trilogy and Bronson before that pair. In the past decade, however, he's only brought one more movie to cinemas. The Neon Demon was a gem, too, and about as Refn as Refn gets, but that was back in 2016. Smaller screens have been beckoning the Danish director, thankfully. He launched his own free streaming service, and also co-created, co-wrote and directed the ten-part, Miles Teller (Top Gun: Maverick)-starring Too Old to Die Young. Refn's latest effort gets episodic as well, and sees him return to his homeland for the first time since Valhalla Rising — and, while it feels filtered through David Lynch's sensibilities alongside his own, Copenhagen Cowboy remains Refn through and through. The visuals have it, as they always do when this filmmaker is behind the lens. Neon aplenty, how he composes a room, how his characters peer on at the world around them, the use of 360-degree pans, the chilly mood, his overall aesthetic flair: they're all here. So, too, is another of the director's essentials, courtesy of a synth-heavy score by Cliff Martinez. That combination makes an entrancing mix, as it has over and over before, but Copenhagen Cowboy is never simply a case of empty style, sound and vision. Also present is an enigmatic tale, this time about the magnetic and mysterious Miu (Angela Bundalovic, Limboland). Considered a "living lucky charm" and highly sought after for her talents, she's the show's entry point to Copenhagen's criminal underworld. Can she help Rosella (Dragana Milutinovic, also Limboland) get pregnant? What kind of eerie situation has she found herself in? Are her gifts genuine? It wouldn't be a Refn project if questions didn't linger in the pulsating sense of stillness. Copenhagen Cowboy streams via Netflix. THE MAKANAI: COOKING FOR THE MAIKO HOUSE At the beginning of The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House, 16-year-old best friends Kiyo (Nana Mori, Liar x Liar) and Sumire (Natsuki Deguchi, Silent Parade) leave home for the first time with smiles as wide as their hearts are open. Departing the rural Aomari for Kyoto in the thick of winter, they have internships as maiko lined up — apprentice geiko, as geishas are called in the Kyoto dialect. Their path to their dearest wishes isn't all sunshine and cherry blossoms from there, of course, but this is a series that lingers on the details, on slices of life, and on everyday events rather than big dramatic developments. Watch, for instance, how lovingly Kiyo and Sumire's last meal is lensed before they set out for their new future, and how devotedly the camera surveys the humble act of sitting down to share a dumpling soup, legs tucked beneath blankets under the table, while having an ordinary conversation. Soothing, tender, compassionate, bubbling with warmth: that's The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House from the outset. There's a key reason that this cosy and comforting new treasure overflows with such affection and understanding — for its characters, their lives and just the act of living. Prolific writer/director Hirokazu Kore-eda simply isn't capable of anything else. Yes, Netflix is in the auteur game at the moment. Its January question: why give streaming queues the world over one new series by an acclaimed filmmaker in a month when you can gift them two? The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House couldn't be more different from Nicolas Winding Refn's Copenhagen Cowboy (see: above), but it is unmistakably the work of its rightly applauded creative force. One of the biggest names in Japanese cinema today, and the winner of the received Cannes Film Festival's Palme d'Or back in 2018 for the sublime Shoplifters, Kore-eda makes empathetic, rich and deeply emotional works. His movies, including 2020's France-set The Truth and 2022's South Korea-set Broker, truly see the people within their frames. On the small screen, and hailing from manga, the nine-episode The Makanai is no different. It's also as calming as a show about friendships, chasing dreams and devouring ample dumplings can and should be. The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House streams via Netflix. I HATE SUZIE TOO Watching I Hate Suzie Too isn't easy. Watching I Hate Suzie, the show's first season, wasn't either back in 2020. A warts-and-all dance through the chaotic life, emotions and mind of a celebrity, both instalments of this compelling British series have spun as far away from the glitz and glamour of being famous as possible. Capturing carefully constructed social-media content to sell the fiction of stardom's perfection is part of the story, as it has to be three decades into the 21st century; however, consider this show from Succession writer Lucy Prebble and actor/singer/co-creator Billie Piper, and its blood pressure-raising tension and stress, the anti-Instagram. The unfiltered focus: teen pop sensation-turned-actor Suzie Pickles, as played with a canny sense of knowing by Piper given that the 'Honey to the Bee' and Penny Dreadful talent has charted the same course. That said, the show's IRL star hasn't been the subject of a traumatic phone hack that exposed sensitive photos from an extramarital affair to the public, turning her existence and career upside down, as Suzie was in season one. In I Hate Suzie Too, plenty has changed for the series' namesake over a six-month period. She's no longer with her professor husband Cob (Daniel Ings, Sex Education), and is battling for custody of their young son Frank (debutant Matthew Jordan-Caws), who is deaf — and her manager and lifelong friend Naomi (Leila Farzad, Avenue 5) is off the books, replaced by the no-nonsense Sian (Anastasia Hille, A Spy Among Friends). Also, in a new chance to win back fans, Suzie has returned to reality TV after it helped thrust her into the spotlight as a child star to begin with. Dance Crazee Xmas is exactly what it sounds like, and sees her compete against soccer heroes (Blake Harrison, The Inbetweeners), musicians (Douglas Hodge, The Great) and more. But when I Hate Suzie Too kicks off with a ferocious, clearly cathartic solo dance in sad-clown getup, the viewers aren't charmed. Well, Dance Crazee Xmas' audience, that is — because anyone watching I Hate Suzie Too is in for another stunner that's fearless, audacious, honest, dripping with anxiety, staggering in its intensity, absolutely heart-wrenching and always unflinching. I Hate Suzie Too streams via Stan. Read our full review. DUAL New movie, familiar query: what would you do if you physically came face to face with yourself, and not just by looking in a mirror? Films about clones, including all-timer Moon and the recent Mahershala Ali (Alita: Battle Angel)-starring Swan Song, have long pondered this topic — and so has the Paul Rudd-led series Living with Yourself. In Dual, there's only one legal option. This sci-fi satire shares Swan Song's idea, allowing replicating oneself when fate deals out a bad hand. So, that's what Sarah (Karen Gillan, The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special) does when she's told that she has a rare but terminal disease, and that her death is certain. Cloning is meant to spare her boyfriend Peter (Beulah Koale, Shadow in the Cloud) and her mother (Maija Paunio, Next of Kin) from losing her, making a difficult situation better for Sarah's loved ones. But when she doesn't die after all, the law states that, just like in Highlander, there can be only one. To decide who lives, Sarah and her doppelgänger must fight to the death in a public dual — with Trent (Aaron Paul, Better Call Saul) helping train the OG version. Even with its twist, on paper Dual sounds like a feature that any filmmaker could've made — one that any actor could've starred in, too. But this is the meaty, meaningful and memorable movie it is thanks to writer/director Riley Stearns and his excellent lead Gillan. With his penchant for deadpan, the former pondered working out who you truly are through an unlikely battle in 2019's very funny The Art of Self-Defense, and does so again here. He's also fond of exploring the struggle to embrace one's personality, and confronting the notion we all have in our minds that a better version of ourselves exists. That said, Dual plays like a sibling to The Art of Self-Defense, rather than a clone itself. It'd certainly be a lesser flick without Gillan, who sheds her Nebula makeup, wades out of the Jumanji franchise's jungles, and turns in two powerful and nuanced performances as Sarah and Sarah 2.0. And while Paul is in supporting mode, he's a scene-stealer. Dual streams via Netflix. HUNTERS Call it a conspiracy thriller. Call it an alternative history. Call it a revenge fantasy. Call it another savage exploration of race relations with Jordan Peele's fingerprints all over it. When it comes to Hunters, they all fit. This 70s-set Nazi-slaying series first arrived in 2020, following a ragtag group determined to do two things: avenge the Holocaust, with many among their number Jewish survivors or relatives of survivors; and stop escaped Third Reich figures who've secretly slipped into the US from their plan of starting a Fourth Reich. The cast was stellar — Al Pacino (House of Gucci), Logan Lerman (Bullet Train), Tiffany Boone (Nine Perfect Strangers), Jeannie Berlin (Succession), Carol Kane (Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt), Lena Olin (Mindhunter) and Australia's own Kate Mulvany (Elvis) among them — and Get Out and Us filmmaker Peele executive produced a gem as he also did that same year with Lovecraft Country. And, when it wrapped up its first season, it did so with one mighty massive cliffhanger: the fact that Adolf Hitler (Udo Kier, Swan Song) was still alive in 1977. Returning for its second and final batch of episodes three years later, but largely moving its action to 1979, season two of Hunters sees its central gang initially doing their own things — but unsurprisingly reteaming to go after the obvious target. Jonah Heidelbaum (Lerman) is living a double life, with his new fiancee Clara (Emily Rudd, Fear Street) in the dark about his Nazi-hunting ways, but crossing paths with the ruthless and determined Chava Apfelbaum (Jennifer Jason Leigh, Possessor) ramps up his and the crew's efforts. Knowing this is the final go-around, the stylishly shot series isn't afraid of embracing its OTT leanings, tonal jumps and frenetic camerawork, and always proves entertaining as it hurtles towards its last hurrah. The best episode of the season, however, is one that jumps back to World War II, doesn't focus on any of its main stars and is as clever, moving and well-executed as Hunters has ever been. If the show ever gets revived in the future, which it easily could, more of that would make a great series even better. Hunters streams via Prime Video. THAT '90S SHOW The teenagers of Point Place are at it again: hangin' out down the street, that is, usually in Kitty (Debra Jo Rupp, WandaVision) and Red Forman's (Kurtwood Smith, The Dropout) basement. This time, decades have passed on- and off-screen since the world first met a group of high schoolers happily doing the same old things they did last week in the fictional Wisconsin town, and enjoyed their relatable antics. Netflix's new That '90s Show picks up just over 15 years after That '70s Show's timeline, embracing all that the mid-90s had to offer from raves and Alanis Morissette's initial fame to video stores and Donkey Kong. (Yellowjackets isn't the only series going all-in three decades back right now.) For viewers, the 1995-set series arrives 17 years after its predecessor said farewell, and also delivers endearing, laidback, easily bingeable throwback that's quite the good time. The years might've changed, but the basics stay the same in a wave of familiar places, faces, scenarios and themes — and the overall formula. From 1998–2006, Eric Forman (Topher Grace, Home Economics), girl-next-door Donna Pinciotti (Laura Prepon, Orange Is the New Black), and pals including Michael Kelso (Ashton Kutcher, Vengeance), Jackie Burkhart (Mila Kunis, Luckiest Girl Alive) and Fez (Wilmer Valderrama, NCIS) earned That '70s Show's attention as they chatted through their hopes and dreams, got stoned frequently, and tried to work out who they were, who they loved and what they wanted. Now, doing the same is Eric and Donna's 14-year-old daughter Leia (Callie Haverda, The Lost Husband), plus the new friends — feisty riot grrrl Gwen (Ashley Aufderheide, Four Kids and It), her airhead brother Nate (Maxwell Acee Donovan, Gabby Duran & The Unsittables), ladies' man Jay (Mace Coronel, Colin in Black & White), the witty Ozzie (Reyn Doi, Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar) and the super-smart Nikki (Sam Morelos, Forgetting Nobody) — she makes while visiting her grandparents. That '90s Show streams via Netflix. Read our full review. BLACK SNOW Fans of weighty Australian fare that reckons with the country's past are fans of the Mystery Road franchise, spanning both the big and small screens. They're fans, then, of the way that the outback-set saga surveys the nation's distinctive ochre-hued landscape from above in picturesque drone shots, all while contemplating the racist ills waged to live and work upon it. Six-part series Black Snow borrows much that's made Mystery Road such a hit, including a shock murder in a small town, a cop riding in to solve the mystery it heralds, a grim look at Aussie history and a bird's-eye view of its setting. But when this instantly compelling show peers down, it spies fields of green sugar cane fields far and wide. And, when it explores the country's traumas, it focuses on the treatment of the Australian South Sea Islander community — especially blackbirding, which involves forced relocation, severe underpayment and brutal working conditions, a grim form of slavery that isn't forgotten here. Seventeen-year-old Isabel Baker (talented debutant Talijah Blackman-Corowa) is the first person seen in Black Snow's opening moments, riding her bike hurriedly through the cane in the thick of night, making a frantic call from a remote phone booth and getting spooked by a music-blaring car's sudden appearance. The year is 1994, and the evening is the high schooler's Year 12 formal, as well as her last alive. Black Snow's second face belongs to James Cormack (Travis Fimmel, Raised by Wolves), a Brisbane-based Cold Case Unit police officer trying his luck in 2019 at a claw machine in a pub. He's troubled in a different way, haunted by emotional pain he attempts to deaden by paying for a Fight Club-style beating in the bar's back alley. After a time capsule buried by Isabel and her classmates reveals more than pop-culture blasts from the past, he's swiftly trying to solve her death — with help from her shrewd sister Hazel (potent first-timer Jemmason Power). Black Snow streams via Stan. Read our full review. NEW SHOWS TO CHECK OUT WEEK BY WEEK THE LAST OF US If the end of the world comes, or a parasitic fungus evolves via climate change, spreads globally, infests brains en masse and almost wipes out humanity, spectacular video game-to-TV adaptation The Last of Us will have you wanting Pedro Pascal in your corner. Already a standout in Game of Thrones, then Narcos, then The Mandalorian, he's perfectly cast in HBO's latest blockbuster series — a character-driven show that ruminates on what it means to not just survive but to want to live and thrive after the apocalypse. In this smart and gripping show (one that's thankfully already been renewed for season two, too), he plays Joel. Dad to teenager Sarah (Nico Parker, The Third Day), he's consumed by grief and loss after what starts as a normal day, and his birthday, changes everything for everyone. Twenty years later, he's a smuggler tasked with tapping into his paternal instincts to accompany a different young girl, the headstrong Ellie (Bella Ramsey, Catherine Called Birdy), on a perilous but potentially existence-saving trip across the US. Starting to watch The Last of Us, or even merely describing it, is an instant exercise in déjà vu. Whether or not you've played the hit game since it first arrived in 2013, or its 2014 expansion pack, 2020 sequel or 2022 remake, its nine-part TV iteration ventures where plenty of on-screen fare including The Road and The Walking Dead has previously trodden. The best example that springs to mind during The Last of Us is Station Eleven, however, which is the heartiest of compliments given how thoughtful, empathetic and textured that 2021–22 series proved. As everything about pandemics, contagions and diseases that upend the world order now does, The Last of Us feels steeped in stone-cold reality as well, as spearheaded by a co-creator, executive producer, writer and director who has already turned an IRL doomsday into stunning television with Chernobyl. That creative force is Craig Mazin, teaming up with Neil Druckmann from Naughty Dog, who also wrote and directed The Last of Us games. The Last of Us streams via Binge. Read our full review. POKER FACE Cards on the table: thanks to Russian Doll and the Knives Out franchise, Natasha Lyonne and Rian Johnson are both on a helluva streak. In their most recent projects before now, each has enjoyed a hot run not once but twice. Lyonne made time trickery one of the best new shows of 2019, plus a returning standout in 2022 as well, while Johnson's first Benoit Blanc whodunnit and followup Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery were gems of the exact same years. The latter also saw the pair team up briefly — Lyonne and Johnson, that is, although getting a Russian Doll-meets-Knives Out crossover from the universe, or just the Netflix algorithm, would be a dream. Until that wish comes true, there's Poker Face. It's no one's stopgap or consolation prize, however. This new mystery-of-the-week series is an all-out must-see in its own right, and one of 2023's gleaming streaming aces already. Given its components and concept, turning out otherwise would've been the biggest head-scratcher. Beneath aviator shades, a trucker cap and her recognisable locks, Lyonne plays detective again, as she did in Russian Doll — because investigating why you're looping through the same day over and over, or jumping through time, is still investigating. Johnson gives the world another sleuth, too, after offering up his own spin on Agatha Christie-style gumshoes with the ongoing Knives Out saga. This time, he's dancing with 1968–2003 television series Columbo, right down to Poker Face's title font. Lyonne isn't one for playing conventional detectives, though. Here, she's Charlie Cale, who starts poking around in sudden deaths thanks to an unusual gift and a personal tragedy. As outlined in the show's ten-part first season, Charlie is a human lie detector. She can always tell if someone is being untruthful, a knack she first used in gambling before getting on the wrong side of the wrong people. Then, when a friend and colleague at the far-from-flashy Las Vegas casino where Charlie works winds up dead, that talent couldn't be handier. Poker Face streams via Stan. Read our full review. SHRINKING Viewers mightn't have realised they'd been lacking something crucial until now, but Shrinking serves it up anyway: a delightfully gruff Harrison Ford co-starring in a kind-hearted sitcom. Creating this therapist-focused series for Apple TV+, Bill Lawrence, Brett Goldstein and Jason Segel didn't miss this new gem's immediate potential. Lawrence and Goldstein add the show to their roster alongside Ted Lasso, which the former also co-created, and the latter stars in as the also wonderfully gruff Roy Kent to Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning effect. It too bathes in warmth amid chaos, all while understanding, exploring and accepting its characters as the flawed folks we all are. As for Segel, he's no stranger to playing the type of super-enthusiastic and super-earnest figure he inhabits again here, as seen in Freaks and Geeks and How I Met Your Mother. If Ted Lasso downplayed the soccer, instead emphasising the psychologist chats that were a pivotal part of season two, Shrinking would be the end result. Also, if Scrubs, another of Lawrence's sitcoms, followed doctors specialising in mental health rather than working in a hospital, Shrinking would also be the outcome. Round up those familiar elements and details brought over from elsewhere, and Shrinking turns them into a series that's supremely entertaining, well-cast and well-crafted — and an engaging and easy watch. The focus: Segel (Windfall) as Jimmy Laird, a shrink grieving for his wife Tia (Lilan Bowden, Murderville), making bad decisions and leaving parenting his teen daughter Alice (Lukita Maxwell, Generation) to his empty-nester neighbour Liz (Christa Miller, a Scrubs alum and also Lawrence's wife). When he decides to start checking back in, and to also give his patients like young war veteran Sean (Luke Tennie, CSI: Vegas) some tough love, it causes ripples, including for his boss Paul (Ford, The Call of the Wild) and colleague Gaby (Jessica Williams, Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore). Shrinking streams via Apple TV+. Read our full review. RECENT AND CLASSIC MOVIES YOU NEED TO CATCH UP WITH CENSOR You don't need to fondly remember the height of the VHS age to know that Censor, the exceptional, intelligent and inventive debut by Welsh writer/director Prano Bailey-Bond, sports a killer concept. Set in Britain in the 80s, this is a video nasty-loving flick about video nasties, aka low-budget, frequently exploitative, blood- and gore-filled horror movies that proliferated when home entertainment finally became affordable for the masses. Watching and assessing such fare for the British Board of Film Classification — and judging what's acceptable for release, what can get by after a little or a swag of cuts, and what should be banned outright in the process — Enid Baines (Niamh Algar, The Wonder) spends her days wading through the violent, visceral and queasy. If she and her colleagues make the wrong call, there's a public outcry, as happens when a man gets murderous and the media ties it to a recent title. Amid the resulting uproar, Enid finds herself drawn to a different director's OTT work, seeing uncanny parallels within his frames with her own traumatic experiences. An attention-grabber at Sundance back in 2021, Censor doesn't ascribe to the view that wild screen content sparks wild behaviour — but it does have a brilliant amount of fun cleverly toying with it. Bailey-Bond knows the discourse and satirises it savagely. She knows the type of movies that Enid has to evaluate, too, with her confident first film both lovingly nodding to and playing with them. Rising star Algar, who was also a standout in The Virtues and Calm with Horses, is intense and inimitable as workaholic Enid; the always-welcome Michael Smiley (Bad Sisters) enjoys his sleazy role; and cinematographer Annika Summerson (Mogul Mowgli), editor Mark Towns (Choose or Die) and composer Emilie Levienaise-Farrouch (Rocks) help get the look, feel and sound just right. Creepy, immersive, and boasting a multi-layered ending that works as a parody, a statement and a balls-to-the-wall horror spectacle, Censor demands close and engrossed notice — and marks Bailey-Bond as a talent to keenly watch. Censor streams via Stan. MIAMI CONNECTION Back in 1987, an out-there martial arts movie that really has to be seen to be believed first hit screens. There was one huge problem with this collaboration between director Park Woo-sang (American Chinatown) and star YK Kim, however: Miami Connection wasn't a success with critics or audiences at the time, despite featuring a band called Dragon Sound that's filled with Taekwondo aficionados, a motorcycle-riding ninja gang and a cocaine war. That lacklustre response is thoroughly understandable. Miami Connection isn't great, and wouldn't have been even amid the 80s action boom — but it is 100-percent worth watching at least once. It debuted well before The Room but made a comeback afterwards, and proves immensely entertaining in the same so-bad-it's-just-so-bad manner. Post-Tommy Wiseau's hit, Miami Connection was unearthed and revived by the Alamo Drafthouse in Texas, then worked its way around the festival circuit, including playing the Brisbane International Film Festival. An obvious caveat applies to this Florida-set flick: watching it with as big a group of people as you can, even while streaming it at home, is the ideal way to have the best time with everything that it throws at the screen. And make no mistake, Miami Connection gets a-hurling, including when it comes to makeup, ridiculous dialogue, a plot that's absurd and jumps all over the place, choreography, montages, musical numbers, acting and action. Story-wise, Dragon Sound's members become the target of the film's ninjas over a gig. Don't go expecting much that's coherent springing from that basic premise, though. Do get ready for the kind of movie that no one could ever set out to make on purpose, and that no one can truly be prepared for before viewing. Throwing spoons isn't required here, but you might want to anyway. Miami Connection streams via SBS On Demand. Need a few more streaming recommendations? Check out our picks from January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December 2022. You can also check out our list of standout must-stream 2022 shows as well — and our best 15 new shows of last year, top 15 returning shows over the same period, 15 shows you might've missed and best 15 straight-to-streaming movies of 2022.
It's absolutely no secret we're obsessed with food. But while we're often chasing down some of the finest dining experiences to share with you, we're still suckers for a big plate of old-fashioned wings washed down with cold beer. There's something about a plate of juicy wings covered with buffalo sauce that makes the ultimate comfort food — or just the perfect snack alongside a few well-earned bevs at the end of the week. As you can probably tell, the research for this one was tough, but we've managed to compile a list of the top five places to eat buffalo wings in Sydney.
Built in 1793 for wool farmer John Macarthur and his wife, Elizabeth, this retreat is one of the oldest houses in Australia. It has since been transformed into a hands-on museum where you can access all areas, touch the furnishings and generally make yourself at home. There's an old-school tea room that serves up sandwiches, Devonshire tea and baked treats, but you're also welcome to bring a picnic, borrow a picnic blanket and relax in the garden, among lilies, roses, eucalypts and veggies. After your bite to eat, you can explore nearby cottages Experiment Farm Cottage and Hambledon Cottage, which are part of the same precinct — just be sure to check opening hours and tour information before you go. Image: City of Parramatta
The Coke Sign has long been emblematic of Sydney's nightlife, and, as of this week, it will sit right on top of another Holey Moley mini golf bar. Go figure. After moving into the space that once was the Newtown Social Club last year, the Holey Moley crew has taken up residence in the building right underneath the Kings Cross Coca-Cola sign. Here, two neighbouring spaces have been joined to create Holey Moley's biggest venue yet, featuring a huge 27 holes, across three separate mini golf courses. And while this one boasts the same DNA as its siblings, it's also got enough new gimmicks to keep even Holey Moley pros on their toes. The space itself pays homage to the area, and the mini golf offering's been ramped up to include a range of different experiences you won't find anywhere else across the group's stable. As you can expect, it has view across the city. Been to Newtown a few times? Holey Moley Darlinghurst also heralds the arrival of some new additions to the menu. Now you can tame your post-putting hunger with the likes of burgers and hot dogs. Behind the bar, new liquid hits include the Cherry Ripe for the Picking, made on cherry liqueur, coconut rum and whipped cream, and a grapefruit, Aperol and vodka concoction cheekily dubbed the Austin Sours. Since opening in Newtown in July last year, Holey Moley has gone on to open outposts in Castle Hill, Newcastle and Wollongong. So while it might not be welcome news to everyone that the bar has opened in what was once, pre-lockout laws, Sydney's nightlife district, it's hardly surprising. Holey Moley Darlinghurst opens at 82–94 Darlinghurst Road, Potts Point tomorrow, Thursday, May 10. For more info, visit holeymoley.com.au. Images: Mitch Lowe.
Oxford Street's legacy as a go-to street for Australian designer boutiques and independent stores may have seen a few changes in the recent decade, but it's still a shopping destination for many Sydneysiders, weekend after weekend, for its range of intimate shops, art galleries and bookstores. Life is extra sweet when you combine that experience with dipping in and out of charming cafes to keep you caffeinated as you shop. Whether you're eyeing up a new dress or looking for new plant pots for your home, the streets of Paddington (and its fringes) are the place to spend a leisurely afternoon browsing. With so much ground to cover, it can be tough to know where to start. With a little help from American Express, we've compiled a list of places sure to meet your shopping needs — and you can shop small here with your Amex Card.
For most people, a trip to Noosa means soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, hiking through verdant rainforests and shopping on Hastings Street. But there's so much more on offer throughout the region, from beachfront dining and kayaking through the Everglades to chasing dolphins and meeting local artists. Together with Visit Noosa, we've put together a guide on some lesser-known experiences around Noosa so you can discover something new on your next adventure to the Sunshine Coast. Whether you're after an adrenaline fix or want to sample some oysters by the beach, all you need to do is book your flight, check into one of our suggested accommodation options, and start exploring. Play Kick off your Noosa trip in style as soon as you touch down. Book a Tesla Transfer service to pick you up from the Sunshine Coast or Brisbane airports and take you straight from the terminal to your accommodation in Noosa. There are a range of Tesla sedans and SUVs to choose from, with complimentary child seats available. Noosa is famed for its tranquil beaches and lush hinterland, but if you're keen to inject some excitement into your visit, join the Adventure Tribe for one of its many outdoor experiences. The team hosts tours and expeditions around Noosa and the Sunshine Coast, from rock climbing and abseiling to kayaking the Noosa Everglades and hiking the Cooloola Great Walk. The experiences range from two hours to multi-day trips, with private tours also available. For more thrills, spend a day at Aussie World, which features over 30 rides, attractions and games like mini-golf, a haunted maze and a trippy 'illusionarium', as well as eateries and a beer garden. There is a range of rides to suit the whole family, from the cruisy ferris wheel and carousel for smaller tots to the unmissable Dingo Racer rollercoaster and SX360 pendulum — the latter of which reaches speeds of up to 80 kilometres per hour as it completes full revolutions 32 metres up in the air. There's no better way to explore the coast than from the water so book in for one of Noosa Wave's four maritime adventures to meet Queensland locals of a different kind, including whales, dolphins, turtles and tropical fish. Embark on a whale-watching tour or an exhilarating dolphin-spotting boat ride, or get up close and personal with a snorkelling or swimming-with-whales experience. But Noosa doesn't have to be all about chasing thrills and outdoor expeditions — culture vultures can get their fix at Noosa Open Studios, which hosts a free annual Art Trail. For 10 days, visitors are invited to explore the workshops and studios of 100-plus local artists around Noosa to meet the creatives, discover their processes and purchase artworks. Eat There's nothing quite like cracking open a cold one after a day spent outdoors, so hit up the Heads of Noosa Brewing Co taproom for an icy bev. Pair one of its crisp lagers with share plates such as fried brussels sprouts with lime mayo, tempura king prawns with golden curry mayo, Thai satay chicken roti, or beef cheeks braised in Heads Black Lager with mashed potato and honey carrots. For an intimate dining experience, visit Humble on Duke in Sunshine Beach. The cosy, 14-seater restaurant is run by sole chef Stacey Conner and partner Jade Tareha and offers a seasonally changing set menu inspired by modern Australian and Middle Eastern flavours. Expect snacks such as Lebanese fried dumplings with spiced lamb and house-made Turkish bread with baba ganoush, followed by larger dishes like spiced wagyu flank with salsa verde or line-caught Pearl Perch with carrot sauce and barbecue fennel. Sides, desserts and wines are available to add on as you wish. You can't leave Noosa without dining by the beach, and Bistro C is the ideal spot to wrap up your Sunshine Coast holiday. Situated right on the boardwalk, the airy restaurant looks out onto Laguna Bay. For dinner, start with Coffin Bay oysters and calamari before moving onto bigger plates such as pork and prawn tortellini with XO butter, caramelised pork belly with toffee pear and crackling, or a spatchcock pie with pickled blueberries and a sticky jus. Finish off with a Mars Bar-inspired caramel chocolate delice, sticky date and ginger pudding with pear ice cream or coconut kaffir tapioca pudding with lychee and pineapple salsa. Start planning your Noosa getaway and find out more at the Visit Noosa website. Images: Tourism Noosa
Lunar New Year is about gathering around the table and sharing food and festivities. For Steve Wu, executive chef of the Lotus Dining Group, it's the most important celebration of the year — one centred on family, connection and flavour. Ahead of Lunar New Year on Tuesday, February 17, Steve has created two Asian-inspired dishes designed for celebratory meals at home. These two recipes reflect how Lunar New Year cooking continues to evolve with bold, modern flavours, while staying rooted in the rituals that bring people together. From the wok-fried wasabi wagyu beef to the sealed scallops with wasabi mayo, both are full of flavour and designed to be shared, making them well-suited to the long, festive meals that define Lunar New Year. WOK-FRIED WASABI WAGYU BEEF WITH THAI BASIL Ingredients: For the Sauce 55g soy paste (thick soy sauce) 25g palm sugar 22g soy sauce (light soy sauce) 7g black vinegar 10g S&B Wasabi Paste For the Marinade 200g Wagyu flank steak 5g oil 2g soy sauce 2g potato starch For the Dish 10g cooking oil for wok 50g asparagus 50g baby corn 20g onion 10g fresh chilli (sliced) 3g Thai basil Method: Prepare the Sauce Combine the soy paste, soy sauce, and palm sugar in a small saucepan. Gently heat the mixture over low-to-medium heat, stirring until the palm sugar is completely melted and the sauce is homogenous. Do not boil. Remove the pan from the heat and allow the sauce to cool down completely. Once cooled, stir in the black vinegar and S&B Wasabi Paste. Set the sauce aside. Prepare and Marinate the Wagyu Beef Trim the Wagyu flank steak and slice it against the grain into pieces approximately 4 x 2 x 0.5 cm. In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with the 2g of soy sauce and potato starch until well coated. Finish the marinade by stirring in the 5g of oil to coat the beef slices and prevent them from sticking together. Allow the beef to marinate at room temperature for at least 20 minutes before cooking. Stir-fry the Vegetables Warm up your wok over medium-to-medium-high heat. Add the 10g of cooking oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the asparagus, baby corn, and onion. Stir-fry the vegetables for about one minute until they start to soften slightly and take on some colour. They should still be crisp. Transfer the half-cooked vegetables to a clean plate and set aside. Sear the Wagyu Beef Use the same wok (ensure it is still hot). If necessary, add a tiny bit more oil. Increase the heat to high. Add the marinated Wagyu beef slices in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding and steaming). Sear the beef for about 30 to 60 seconds per side, depending on the thickness and your desired doneness (Wagyu is best served medium-rare). Finish the Wok Fry Add the stir-fried seared beef and vegetables together. Add the sliced chilli. Toss briefly. Pour in the prepared sauce (you may not need all of it; add to your preference). Toss quickly to coat everything evenly. Immediately add the Thai basil leaves. Toss for a final 5 to 10 seconds until the basil is wilted and fragrant. Serve on a plate. Steve's chef tip? "If you want to add some more spice, mix in 10g of wasabi with the marinade." LUNAR NEW YEAR-STYLE SEALED CALLOP WITH S&B WASABI AND MAYO Ingredients: For the Wasabi Mayonnaise Sauce 40g mayonnaise 5g lemon juice 10g honey 5g yellow mustard 4g S&B Wasabi Paste 1g salt For the Dish 6 pieces sashimi-grade scallops 50g red capsicum (diced finely) 50g yellow capsicum (diced finely) 30g fresh pomelo segments (segments peeled and gently broken) 60g cucumber ribbons 2g micro lemon balm Cooking oil: As needed for searing Method: Prepare the Wasabi Mayonnaise Sauce In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, yellow mustard, S&B Wasabi Paste, and salt. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are fully incorporated, and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the wasabi or salt if needed. Set the sauce aside. Prepare the Scallops for Searing Before cooking, gently pat the scallops completely dry using paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear. Sear the Scallops Place a frying pan over high heat until hot. Add a small amount of cooking oil. Once the oil is shimmering and almost smoking, reduce the heat slightly to medium-high. Place the scallops in the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sear both sides for 45 to 60 seconds per side, depending on your preferred internal temperature (aim for a deep golden crust). Rest the Scallops Immediately remove the seared scallops from the pan and place them on a kitchen paper towel for about one minute. This allows the internal heat to redistribute gently, ensuring the centre remains moist and tender. Plate and Serve Slice each cooked scallop in half horizontally. On serving plates, arrange a base of the diced capsicums, cucumber ribbons, and pomelo segments. Drizzle or dollop the prepared wasabi mayonnaise sauce artfully onto the plate. Place the sliced seared scallops on top of the sauce and vegetable mix. Garnish with the micro lemon balm. Steve's tip for this recipe? "Add a bit of wasabi as is at the end of preparing the dish to give it some extra punch." Feeling inspired by Steve's recipe? For the tenth year in a row, Asian Inspirations is hosting the Lunar New Year Cook Snap Win competition. There are $20,000 in prizes to be won, including the grand prize: the ultimate foodie travel adventure for two. Head to the Asian Inspiration website to learn how you could win big. Discover more recipes. Image credit: Josh Mullins
