A couple of years back, a ramen joint in Sydney served up $400 bowls of brothy, noodle-filled goodness, complete with a full lobster and a golden head as a garnish. If you wanted to give it a try, you clearly needed deep pockets. But it now looks positively cheap and affordable compared to Australia's new $15,000 gold-infused cocktail. Yes, you read that amount correctly. Yes, that's a ridiculous sum of money for a drink. No, we didn't add an extra zero, or two or three — because $150 or $1500 cocktails would still elicit the same reaction. The bank balance-crushing tipple — called the Woodford Gold Fashioned — will clearly be the most pricey old fashioned you ever come across, and has unsurprisingly been dubbed Australia's most expensive cocktail. It's also only on offer for a limited time at two Australian bars for Woodford Reserve Old Fashioned Week. That celebration, as the name makes plain, hails from booze brand Woodford Reserve and is all about showcasing one specific type of boozy concoction. The fest itself is popping up at 200-plus bars Australia-wide, running from Saturday, November 5–Monday, November 14. Only Sydney's Dean and Nancy on 22 and Melbourne's Sky Bar will be serving up the $15,000 versions, though. What do you get for that hefty cost? An old fashioned made with Woodford's XO cognac-finished Baccarat Edition, as paired with a gold-infused Chateau d'Yquem reduction, plus handmade saffron and vanilla bitters. Even the ice that's popped in it is fancy — it'll be specially engraved — and the whole sip is poured into a hand-cut French crystal Baccarat tumbler. If you're wondering, the Ritz-Carlton in Tokyo has a Diamonds Are Forever martini that costs US$19,000, so a more expensive drink does exist. The Woodford Gold Fashioned one comes in after that, making it the second-most expensive cocktail worldwide. Somehow manage to stump up the cash for a Woodford Gold Fashioned and you'll also get an at-home cocktail kit, which includes a pair of the same Baccarat tumblers and a bottle of Woodford Reserve Baccarat Edition. If you're paying $15,000 for a cocktail, it really does need to come with freebies to enjoy afterwards. The Woodford Gold Fashioned will be available from Saturday, November 5–Monday, November 14 at Sydney's Dean and Nancy on 22 and Melbourne's Sky Bar for Woodford Reserve Old Fashioned Week.
On June 1, life is going to look a lot different for Sydneysiders. Restaurants, cafes and pubs will be allowed to have up to 50 customers and regional travel will be back on the cards, as will visiting cultural institutions and beauty salons. In an announcement yesterday, Sunday, May 25, that NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard called "a big day for everyone in our community", Hazzard said that nail, waxing and tanning salons will be allowed to reopen from the first of next month. "Of all of the requests I've had as Health Minister in the last three months, this has been the one that I think has topped the barrel," Hazzard said. "I've even had text messages in the middle of the other meetings, telling me how bad acrylic nails were." Like all venues allowed to reopen, beauty salons must follow social distancing measures — with one person per four square metres — and have a COVID-safe plan in place before reopening. [caption id="attachment_761669" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Taronga Zoo[/caption] In a separate announcement yesterday, NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet confirmed that the state's zoos, reptile parks would also be allowed to reopen from June 1. Once again, the venues will need to comply with the one person per four-square-metres rule, and Perrottet is urging Sydneysiders to pre-purchase tickets or give the animal-filled spots a call before heading in. "With the June long weekend and school holidays not far away we want to ensure they take appropriate measures to make this a success," Perrottet said. "For example, that might be only doing online tickets to control visitor numbers on busy days." For more information about the status of COVID-19 in NSW, head to the NSW Health website.
"Black..." growls Will Arnett's gruff hero from deep within the movie's opening darkness. "All important movies start with a black screen. And music. Edgy, scary music that would make a parent or studio executive nervous. And logos. Really long and dramatic logos". On and on he goes, making cracks at a production house whose contribution to the film escapes him, having a dig at both Superman and DC comics, quoting Michael Jackson and bragging about his huge pecs and impressive "ninth ab". All, mind you, before the first frame of the movie has even been seen. This is The Lego Batman Movie, aka Captain Meta, where the self-referential humour comes thick and fast from the opening minute to the last. It's a film that gleefully acknowledges the nine Batman flicks that preceded it, including "that weird one in 1966" (notes the hero: "I have aged phenomenally"). And yet, for all the in-jokes and winks to camera, The Lego Batman Movie is, at least thematically, somehow more of a Batman movie than Joel Schumacher's Batman and Robin or Zack Snyder's Batman vs Superman, in that it faithfully explores its protagonist's single-most defining characteristic: his crippling isolation. Batman is a loner; a recluse; a vigilante misanthrope whose only joy (and, indeed, purpose) comes from battling criminals. So what would happen, then, if all the criminals were locked away and all of Gotham City were crime-free? Such was the premise at the opening of Christopher Nolan's The Dark Knight Rises, and here, too, it forms the basis of the entire story. It's hence rather a one-note narrative, but thankfully the (many) writers manage to extract enough out of it to fill an enjoyable hour and a half of screen time. Led by a terrific Will Arnett reprising his role from 2014's The Lego Movie, the cast of voice actors here is at once enormous and impressive. Alongside Arnett we find Zach Galifianakis as The Joker, Ralph Fiennes as Alfred, Michael Cera as Robin and Rosario Dawson as Barbara Gordon, the new Police Commissioner of Gotham City. There's also an extensive cameo list featuring the likes of Channing Tatum as Superman, Conan O'Brien as The Riddler, Zoe Kravitz as Cat Woman, Eddie Izzard as Voldemort and even Siri as Batman's computer. Of course, there's no getting around the fact that this film represents crass commercialism taken to an extraordinary extreme. How many studios would ever deign to include their corporate sponsor in the actual title of their movie (Daniel Craig stars in…Aston-Martin Bond)? As with its predecessor, The Lego Batman Movie is designed to, and succeeds in, showcasing Lego's extensive catalogue of movie and TV-based products, ranging from Harry Potter and Doctor Who through to Godzilla, King Kong and The Wizard of Oz. On the other hand, the film is a funny, clever and engaging piece of cinema that holds almost as much interest for adults as it will the film's target younger audience. Not as finessed or layered as The Lego Movie, this superhero spinoff is nonetheless an entertaining and refreshing take on the big screen's most brooding hero, and proves well worth the price of admission. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGQUKzSDhrg
Your winter Tuesdays just got a lot better with Chiswick. The garden-to-table restaurant in Woollahra is introducing weekly wine tastings and canapés. The best part? It's all completely free. From 6–7pm every Tuesday until July 24, Chiswick will showcase some of the state's best selections, educating your palate while promoting local winemakers like Larkhill Wine and Helm Wines. Top Australia and New Zealand producers will lead the tastings as you unwind from the work day in the restaurants leafy surrounds. The tastings are free, but you'll have to book in online to avoid missing out. After you've spent time enhancing your wine-keen tastebuds, you may as well stay for dinner (or at least another drink).
If you are thinking about planning a really big trip in the next couple of years, the sky may no longer be your limit. Space tourism has long been touted as the new frontier for the seriously adventurous traveller, and it looks like it may become more commonplace in the not-so-distant future. Orbital Technologies, Sierra Nevada Corporation and NASA have collaborated to develop the Dreamchaser Vehicle, a multi-purpose commercial space craft which will primarily be dedicated to scientific research and tourism. The Dreamchaser, which will also act as an emergency station for passing space craft, will include a space hotel with four hotel cabins to accommodate seven guests. And while guests will not be able to expect all the conveniences of home (internet access may prove a bit tricky), they will have access to zippered sleeping bags, waterless flushing loos, shower facitlities and gourmet meals —a little more luxury than your average astronaut is afforded. And, no doubt, the views from the hotel portholes will be entirely out of this world. Five nights in the space hotel will set you back about $165,000, and the transfer to and from your hotel another $826,000 - a pretty penny for an experience that gives a whole new meaning to sleeping under the stars.
Whenever anyone utters the words "Wakanda forever" in a Black Panther movie, they resonate, rippling with pride and power in the Marvel Cinematic Universe's franchise-within-a-franchise about the titular hero and their homeland. Expect those words, every other piece of dialogue and the rousing score behind them to echo with extra force at every Sydney Marvel fan's new must-attend event, however. That's bound to happen at a Black Panther in Concert performance, which'll pair the original film with a live orchestral score. Sequel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is in cinemas right now, but this huge gig will screen the initial 2018 feature. That means getting emotional over the now-late Chadwick Boseman's excellent performance as T'Challa, watching the character cope with the passing of his father, and seeing him face off against old adversary Killmonger (Michael B Jordan, Just Mercy) over the future of Wakanda — and revelling in the rest of triple Oscar-winner's many other delights. One of those shiny Academy Awards went to Ludwig Göransson for the film's score, which will make the most of Sydney Opera House's renovated and relaunched Concert Hall across three performances from Thursday, July 27–Saturday, July 29, 2023. It'll be played by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, as conducted by Anthony Parnther and with percussion by tama player Massamba Diop, in what'll be Black Panther in Concert's Australian-premiere performance. SSO loves busting out big-screen classics and pairing them with its instruments of late, with The Princess Bride also getting the same treatment in 2023, and everything from Bond to Harry Potter and Star Wars doing the same in the past. Still, given the potent storyline, Boseman's passing in 2020, Ryan Coogler's (Creed) energetic and expressive direction, and the stacked cast that also includes Angela Bassett (Gunpowder Milkshake), Letitia Wright (Death on the Nile), Winston Duke (Nine Days), Danai Gurira (The Walking Dead), Lupita Nyong'o (The 355) and Martin Freeman (Breeders), this movie-and-music combination promises something extra special.
For almost two weeks now, Greater Sydney residents have become reacquainted with every nook and cranny in their house — as have folks who live in the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast and Wollongong. And, that isn't set to change any time soon, with New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian announcing today, Wednesday, July 7, that the regions' lockdown will be extended until midnight on Friday, July 16. This is the second time that the stay-at-home conditions have been extended during the current outbreak. On Friday, June 25, four Local Government Areas in Sydney went into lockdown, before the entire Greater Sydney, Blue Mountains, Central Coast and Wollongong region followed the next day. The requirement to remain at home was originally put in place until Friday, July 9; however, the Premier has now advised that the NSW Government has "made the difficult decision to announce the extension of the lockdown and the existing restrictions in the regions for one week further." Announcing the news, Premier Berejiklian said that "this Delta strain is a game changer. It is extremely transmissible and more contagious than any other virus — form of the virus that we've seen." She continued: "the reason why the NSW Government has taken this position is because we don't want to be in a situation where we are constantly having to move between lockdown, no lockdown, lockdown, no lockdown. What we want to do is give us our best chance of making sure this is the only lockdown we have until the vast majority of our citizens are vaccinated. We know the vaccine is the key to our freedom. The vaccine is key to saving lives and keeping the economy open. We appreciate and understand the stress this means for individuals, for families and, of course, for businesses — but what would be far worse is being in a situation where you have to live in and out of lockdown until that period of time when we have the vaccine available to us." New South Wales reported 28 new COVID-19 cases, 27 of them acquired locally, in the 24 hours until 8pm yesterday, Tuesday, July 6. The Premier also noted that a number of cases have been identified overnight as well, and that tomorrow's case number is likely to be higher than today's. https://twitter.com/NSWHealth/status/1412577131339468806 So, everyone in Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast and Wollongong remains under the same conditions that've been in effect for the past fortnight — and were in effect when the state went into lockdown back in March 2020. That means that you can still only leave the house for four specific essential reasons: to work and study if you can't do it from home; for essential shopping; for exercise outdoors in groups of ten or fewer; and for compassionate reasons, which includes medical treatment, getting a COVID-19 test and getting vaccinated. Otherwise, everyone must stay at home. That said, there are no restrictions on when you can go shopping or go out for exercise, and there's no curfew. The Premier did single out the Fairfield, Canterbury-Bankstown and Liverpool Local Government Areas, which is where the majority of new cases have been concentrated, and advised that folks in these three spots really should not leave the house — or, if case numbers rise, the government will consider taking further actions in these LGAs. Throughout all of the areas remaining in lockdown, retail stores can stay open, but people are only permitted to go out for essential buying — not to browse or loiter. Hospitality businesses can open for takeaway and deliveries only. Weddings are still off the cards, but funerals can go ahead — with a maximum of 100 attendees and density caps of one person per four-square-metres indoors. As always, Sydneysiders are also asked to continue to frequently check NSW Health's long list of locations and venues that positive coronavirus cases have visited. If you've been to anywhere listed on the specific dates and times, you'll need to get tested immediately and follow NSW Health's self-isolation instructions. In terms of symptoms, you should be looking out for coughs, fever, sore or scratchy throat, shortness of breath, or loss of smell or taste — and getting tested at a clinic if you have any. All of Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast and Wollongong will remain under stay-at-home orders from 11.59pm on Friday, July 16. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in NSW, head to the NSW Health website.
If a mid-year holiday is on your upcoming agenda, you might want to make a date with one of the regions of Australia that usually depend heavily on overseas tourists. To encourage Aussies to enjoy a getaway at home, and to support areas of the country that have taken a huge tourism hit while the nation's international border is closed, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has today, Thursday, March 11, announced that the Federal Government is halving the cost of 800,000 flights to 13 spots over the next few months as part of a $1.2 billion package. Australians will be able to nab discounted fares to a range of scenic places. In Queensland, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, the Whitsundays and Cairns are all on the list; in the Northern Territory, the package focuses on the Lasseter region which includes Uluru, and Alice Springs; and in Tasmania, Launceston, Devonport and Burnie all feature. You can also head off to Broome in Western Australia, Avalon in Victoria, Merimbula in southern New South Wales and Kangaroo Island in South Australia. Exactly which routes will be included is still being decided, as is the number of tickets on each, but they'll be available from Thursday, April 1 through until July. It's expected that around 46,000 half-price flights will be on offer each week during that period, and that you'll be travelling with Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar. The tickets will go on sale via the respective airline websites and, if the demand is there, the Federal Government may add to the scheme later in the year — in terms of locations and routes. "I think we'll see more opportunities for this program," said the Prime Minister in today's press conference, when asked about future plans. As well as helping support the tourism industry in regions that usually rely upon international visitors — not just by getting folks there at a discounted price, but by leaving them more money in their budgets to spend on tours, attractions, venues, places to stay and hospitality, too — the plan will also provide an incentivised excuse for Aussies to take a local getaway while international travel is still off the cards. The cut in price will be delivered via a subsidy to the participating airlines, which'll receive government funds to cover the difference in fare. That's just one part of the overall package, with funding to keep 8600 of Qantas and Virgin's international flight employees in their jobs, extended financial support for zoos and aquariums, and loans for small- and medium-sized businesses also included. The 800,000 half-price flights will be available in weekly batches from Thursday, April 1. For further details, keep an eye on the Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar websites.
Put together in only nine days and watched by more than 1.4 million Australians, 2020's Music From the Home Front was the nationally televised music event created by late Australian music industry icon Michael Gudinski. Last year, the ANZAC Day home concert came about to bring live music into viewers' homes during the peak of the COVID-19 lockdown. Now, with Australians once again able to converge on concert venues together to watch music in-person, Music From the Home Front is not only returning to screens, but will also be happening live. Going down on Saturday, April 24, the live event will take place at Melbourne's Sidney Myer Music Bowl and be broadcast via Channel 9 and YouTube. Folks that physically head along will be treated to performances from some of the country's biggest talents including Amy Shark, Vance Joy, Tash Sultana and Lime Cordiale, plus Bliss n Eso performing with Kasey Chambers. All these performances will be broadcast live across the country, with home viewers also being treated to additional pre-recorded streamed performances from the likes of Tina Arena, You Am I, Gordi, The Kid Laroi, and both Jimmy and Mahalia Barnes. Gudinski had been planning the live concert until his tragic passing on Tuesday, March 2. Newly appointed Mushroom Music Group Chief Executive Officer Matt Gudinski — who is also Michael Gudinski's son — said his father was working on the event right up until his last day. "That we can bring to life a broadcast concert version from his hometown of Melbourne, supporting the industry he loved, in a city he long promoted as the leading music capital of Australia, resonates deeply with all of us at Mushroom." Tickets for the Sidney Myer Music Bowl concert start at $69 and will go on sale from Friday, April 16, with pre-sales from Wednesday, April 14. More acts are set to be announced, but you can find the full lineup for both the live and streamed events at present — as well as ticket details — on the event's website. [caption id="attachment_806979" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lime Cordiale[/caption] MUSIC FROM THE HOME FRONT LINEUP Performing live at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl: Amy Shark Bliss n Eso with Kasey Chambers Budjerah Jerome Farah Lime Cordiale Mia Wray Tash Sultana Royal Melbourne Hospital Scrub Choir The Rubens Vance Joy Streamed performances: Ben Lee Dean Lewis Gordi Hayley Mary Jess Hitchcock Jimmy Barnes Mahalia Barnes Sam Fischer The Kid Laroi Tina Arena You Am I Music From The Home Front 2021 will take place at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, and will be broadcast on Channel 9 and YouTube on Saturday, April 24. For further details and ticket information — and to buy tickets from Friday, April 16, with pre-sales from Wednesday, April 14 — head to the event's website. Top image: Wade Malligan.
Latest poster child for the makeover frenzy currently sweeping Sydney's pub scene, The Paddington Inn is set to reopen in early September, fresh from a six-month renovation. Following in the footsteps of other Oxford Street greats who've recently has refurbs, like The Unicorn, The Paddington and The Light Brigade, the Paddo mainstay has been given the full treatment and will unveil a brand new dining room, bar and open kitchen as part of its flash new look. Heading up the design is George Livissianis, who is renovating venues all over town at the moment — he was the one responsible for The Dolphin's cake icing design earlier this year, and he's also going to be redoing Matt Moran's Aria. Expect interiors that nod to the classic Sydney terrace house, with a traditional front bar leading through to a bright, modern dining space reflective of the contemporary food offering. One of Sydney's original and best-loved pub bistros back in the '80s and '90s (Moran actually worked in the kitchen for a time), The Paddington Inn is certainly shaking things up in the culinary department, with young gun Justin Schott (ex-Rockpool and Kitchen by Mike) rolling out a forward-thinking, seasonal menu that's as clever as it is unfussy. House-made goodies abound and interesting small plates make a case for sharing — you'll be tucking into the likes of a whole roasted Thirlmere duck teamed with fermented red cabbage, or potato bake fries jazzed up with a burnt onion mayo. The foodie fun continues on the bar menu, where tricked-up pub classics might include a new-school take on fish and chips, nostalgia-inducing jaffles, or salt cod pikelets. The drinks offering has enjoyed a spruce-up of its own too. The wine list a thoughtful mix of low-intervention drops and more interesting styles with a focus on NSW labels, while the cocktail offering heralds the impending arrival of balmier days, with a nice selection of aperitif-style drinks and small-batch Aussie spirits starring in a range of well-crafted classics. The Paddington Inn will open at 4pm on Friday, September 9 at 338 Oxford Street, Paddington. For more information including an exact opening date, keep an eye on paddingtoninn.com.au.
The full bloom of television should come as no surprise to pop culture junkies. TV isn't the new film. It's just TV — a mature medium capable of developing its own conventions and arcs. Just like film, the quality of the 2013 offering inevitably ranged from abysmal (Two Broke Girls) and 'meh' (Sex Box) to polarising (Girls) and breathtaking (Top of the Lake). But where the major movie studios indulged in a catalogue of cinematic idiocy in the form of sequels, threequels and movie-park adaptations, home viewers were part of the beautifully conceived conclusion of Breaking Bad and the continued excellence of Mad Men, Enlightened, Rake, Puberty Blues and Boardwalk Empire. After all, when were stories ever wholly defined by the medium of their communication — they're all just stories, and they're beamed via digital transit onto small screens as well as projected into cinemas. David Lynch and Michael Frost knew that a whole two decades ago, as did those who grieved for Laura Palmer and loved all the freaks of Twin Peaks. The existential angst of Travis Bickle lives on in Don Draper, the maudlin chaos of Woody Allen in Michael Bluth, and the bleak search for optimism of Lester Burnham in Louie. Hopefully we can start looking forward to full-blooded, cinematically conceptualised feature films that merely debut on TV, with the respect and glory of Steven Soderbergh's HBO work Behind the Candelabra, which scarcely fits the old-school notion of a 'telemovie'. It's 2014, and everything's up for grabs. Here's what looks good in 2014 from the vantage point of January. Gracepoint Although the human race is already surely inundated with gratuitous US remakes, the fact that original lead actor David Tennant is also starring in the American version is a good sign of what's to come. The British original, Broadchurch, has received cultish worship and critical adoration for its exploration of a beachside community in the aftermath of a boy's mysterious murder. How and Why Film's transportation to the medium of television may be well and truly complete with Charlie Kaufman's new FX comedy series. Starring Michael Cera (perfect!), and telling the "story of a man who can explain how and why a nuclear reactor works, but is clueless about life", the longform series could be the peak vehicle for the funny, deadpan, melancholic musings we know from Being John Malkovich and Adaptation. https://youtube.com/watch?v=dunRvRJIm18 Believe Mexican super-director Alfonso Cuaron and The Forgotten's Mark Friedman are writing and steering this sci-fi mystery, executive producing with Lost's J.J. Abrams. The ingredients for profound awesomeness are all there: behind-the-scenes talent, obligatory supernatural child character, potential alien subplots, a solid trailer. In the wake of Gravity's impact on Earth, let's hope Believe will showcase the same science-fiction combo of smart visual effects and big ideas (what are we doing here?!). Jonah Takalua This is a controversial one, given the division in opinion around this year's relentless Ja'mie: Private School Girl. But Jonah was always Chris Lilley's most rounded and interesting character — a disadvantaged, endearing ratbag with a foul mouth and a lost-boy need for affection (from his violent father and Gumnut Cottage remedial teacher, Jan Palmer). Jonah let Lilley flesh out the best and the worst aspects of high school: the boredom, the institution's carelessness, the ill-equipped teachers' frustration, the kids' inflamed sense of injustice and their diehard devotion to their friends. Lilley clearly hasn't forgotten that young people's problems (their social cliques, family, love affairs) are just as real and important to them as adults' problems (rent, career, social cliques, family, love affairs) are to adults. Jonah will be vital viewing. Sense8 More film heavyweights defect to television — in fact, internet television (Netflix)! Matrix directors Andy and Lana Wachowski's ability to create complex longform narratives, engaging characters, surprising cinematic visual worlds and innovative special effects (remember when 'bullet time' didn't even exist?) will be stretched by their ten-episode science-fiction drama, Sense8. A mass of ostensibly disparate characters are linked by a shared and violent vision (of the past, future, or another world?). After the confusing and disappointing narrative experimentation of the duo's last feature, Cloud Atlas, perhaps television will afford them the slow-unfolding freedom they need to realise their filmic aspirations. Also on our radar Better Call Saul (A Breaking Bad spinoff centring on Walter White's crooked lawyer Saul Goodman); the animated and clearly shambolic BoJack Horseman (voiced by Will Arnett with Aaron Paul aka Jesse Pinkman of Breaking Bad); The Secret River, an ABC adaptation of the landmark Australian novel and play; Utopia, a satire from the guys from Frontline that "explores that moment when bureaucracy and grand dreams collide"; and two (two!) untitled Tina Fey Projects to air on Fox and NBC and quench the hollowness in our post-30 Rock lives.
Throw us Sydneysiders a bit of sunshine and we'll take just about any inside activity to the great outdoors. Open-air moviegoing, however, is a clear favourite, so you'll be chuffed to learn that the Sydney Hills Outdoor Cinema is returning for a fourth year. Running for a month from January 11 to February 18 at the Castle Hill Showground, this al fresco event promises summertime cinema at its best. The 24-strong film program — which will show on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights — will cover both new releases and classics, across all kinds of genres. The season will kick off with the Christmas flick Daddy's Home 2 followed by a screening of Bad Moms 2 the next night, and finish up Pitch Perfect 3. But, really, the big screen stuff is just a tiny part of what this pop-up event has in store. Most importantly, the beach-themed bar will be pumping out Pimms and Epic Pizza will be on slice duty. There will also be popcorn and frozen yoghurt for anyone wanting to really ace that date night situation. Beanbags will ensure total tush comfort, but if you really want to luxe up your cinema experience, you can go VIP in Cabana Class, which gets you a king-sized bed to watch the movie on with three mates. Or you could get eight of your mates together, and shell out $300 for a VIP bell tent — you'll get your own private viewing courtyard, a private butler, cover and all the creature comforts you need to spend a luxe evening under the stars.
Australia's hospitality scene continues to kick big goals when it comes to wining and dining; but of course, it's about much more than the food and the drink. Those venues have to look the part, too — and thanks to some talented local designers, stunning bars, eateries and hotels keep popping up on the regular. In fact, the cream of that crop has just been highlighted once again at the 2022 Eat Drink Design Awards. This year's pick of Australia's most stylish haunts were announced at a ceremony in North Melbourne, identifying a cast of beautiful spaces located right across the country. That said, Victoria reigned supreme among the list of finalists, with the state home to five out of the eight main award-winners. [caption id="attachment_877798" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Music Room by Earl Carter[/caption] Melbourne's latest certified stunners include Di Stasio's new Carlton outpost — a slick laneway venue by Hassell, which took out the title of Best Restaurant Design for its "flawless" fusion of the old and the new. Meanwhile, Dion Hall's vision for Music Room, located within HER, won the intimate space the award for Best Bar Design, applauded for its interactivity and considered detailing. Also in Melbourne, the work of Congrats Agency nabbed Rocco's Bologna Discoteca the title of Best Identity Design, while Baker Bleu Hawksburn (IF Architecture) and Pronto by Via Porta (Studio Esteta) shared the award for Best Retail Design. And, with 68 years under its belt, the legendary Pellegrini's — designed by Smith, Tracey, Lyon and Brock — was inducted into the Eat Drink Design Awards Hall of Fame. [caption id="attachment_854324" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ace Hotel[/caption] Best Cafe Design went to Brisbane Airport newcomer The Common, for its genre-bending Sullivan Skinner fitout; while Sydney's impressive new Ace Hotel — the first southern hemisphere outpost for the brand — was named Best Hotel Design courtesy of Flack Studio's minimalist yet warm interiors. Further afield, CO-AP's Adelaide Festival Pavilion commission The Summerhouse scored the title of Best Installation Design. The judging panel determining this year's awards was made up of some very familiar names in the hospitality and design space, including chef-restaurateur Shannon Bennett, March Studio Director Rodney Eggleston, Masterchef Australia's Melissa Leong, Fiona Lynch (founder of design studio Fiona Lynch Office) and Artichoke editor Cassie Hansen. [caption id="attachment_877794" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Common by David Chatfield[/caption] 2022 EAT DRINK DESIGN AWARD WINNERS: Best Bar Design: Music Room by Dion Hall (Melbourne, VIC) Best Restaurant Design: Di Stasio Carlton by Hassell (Carlton, VIC) Best Cafe Design: The Common by Sullivan Skinner (Brisbane Airport, QLD) Best Hotel Design: Ace Hotel Sydney by Flack Studio (Sydney, NSW) Best Installation Design: Adelaide Festival Pavilion — The Summerhouse by CO-AP (Adelaide, SA) Best Retail Design: Baker Bleu Hawksburn by IF Architecture (Prahran, VIC) and Pronto by Via Porta by Studio Esteta (Kew, VIC) Best Identity Design: Rocco's Bologna Discoteca by Congrats Agency (Fitzroy, VIC) Hall of Fame: Pellegrini's Espresso Bar (1954) by Smith, Tracey, Lyon and Brock (Melbourne VIC) [caption id="attachment_877801" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Baker Bleu by Sharyn Cairns[/caption] For the full list of winners and commendations at the 2022 Eat Drink Design Awards, head to the Eat Drink Design website. Top image: Di Stasio Carlton by Peter Bennetts.
Winter has come around again and brought along the sniffles, blue fingers and obscene heating bills. It's not all bad though; there's hot soup, knitted scarves and Winter Garden Sydney. This is your chance to see how our Canadian friends spend the chilliest months. There's a lot to do. Challenge your friends to see who can be more aerodynamic in their puffy winter coats and get down the inflatable slide first. For those not scared of bumps and bruises, grab a pair of skates and get out on the ice. If you're feeling a little tired after such rigorous exercise, recharge with some gourmet food and gluhwein at the Winter Garden Lounge. As for your wintery chocolate needs, they will be catered for by the Lindt Chocolate Cafe pop-up. Rug up like a fluffy marshmallow and come down to St Mary's Cathedral to enjoy a white winter. Image: Winter Garden, Australia
The sea spray will be hitting you thick and fast on this 40-minute coastal sightseeing tour. While you'll get to see the glorious Port Macquarie coastline and the occasional whale or dolphin visitor, this is no leisurely cruise. Port Jet Cruise Adventures runs one of the fastest commercial boats in NSW, which you can experience on the Ocean Blast tour. A 900-horsepower engine will rocket you out into the open ocean with the skipper pulling hairpin turns that'll send the bow skyward as you skid across the waves. Join the crew for $70 per person for the ultimate sea legs test.
It's December, so summer has been steaming up Australia for a week now. It's also predicted to be a particularly warm and wet season. So, you might think that snow is off the agenda for a few months. That's a reasonable view to hold. It's sensible, in fact. But it seems that the weather has other ideas, with New South Wales and Victoria's alpine regions getting more than a little frosty this week. Yes, it has been snowing in places such as Perisher and Mount Hotham. The former got down to -0.8 degrees overnight last night (as Monday, December 7 became Tuesday, December 8), as recorded by the Bureau of Meteorology. It's also forecast to hit a -1-degree minimum on Wednesday, December 9. At the latter, the mercury is only tipped to hit 7 degrees maximum on Tuesday, December 8, while Weatherzone reports that it got down to -1.4 degrees overnight. Numbers are all well and good, but if you want on-the-ground details — and images — a number of places in both areas have you covered. Perisher Resort and Hotham Alpine Resort have each posted videos to their social media showing the conditions. If you haven't seen snow in summer before, well, consider that a new 2020 achievement. https://twitter.com/PerisherResort/status/1336068906327318528 https://twitter.com/_hotham/status/1336079287091269632 As the Bureau of Meteorology in both NSW and Victoria have reported, wintry conditions are indeed on the cards in both state's alpine regions this week. Perisher is expected to have minimums between -1–3 degrees until Monday, with maximums between 9–17. At Mount Hotham, the corresponding ranges span -1–7 in terms of lows and 7–17 degrees in top temps. https://twitter.com/BOM_NSW/status/1335690118133321729 https://twitter.com/BOM_Vic/status/1335766642475880456 As for Sydney and Melbourne, it won't be anywhere near that frosty, unsurprisingly. But Sydney's maximums are due to stay mild, between 22–25, for most of the week. In Melbourne, the city isn't predicted to top 18 degrees either today or Wednesday — although temps will rise over the weekend, leading to a 32-degree maximum on Monday, December 14. Top image: Mount Hotham, Rob Blackburn.
Beloved cocktail and whisky bar Eau de Vie has added a new midweek event to their roster. At Wednesday Flight Night, you'll set out on a flight of fancy over a selection of drams pulled from the bar's 400-strong whisky collection. The evenings kick off on Wednesday, July 19 from 6pm and will be an ongoing weekly fixture at the bar. For $40, you'll get tot sample five whiskies during the evening, chosen to match closely with the week's selection of cured meats and cheeses from the Eau de Vie deli. The staff of whisky experts will be on hand to talk whisky fans through the pairings and you'll want to book in advance to ensure you nab a seat.
You don't need to be Charlie Sheen to think that you could do a bit better than the occasional TV producer. You also don't need to have a painful-to-watch, public breakdown to get the point across. When you sit in front of the box thinking "I could do a better family cop-cum-dance show than this", there's been a place for you to put your money where your mouth is. The Optus One80 Project has been taking 180-second short entries in a competition of 'pitches' to win a fully-produced pilot to screen on MTV. Sunday March 20, they'll be showing the finalists in Prince Albert Park, before announcing the winner at a festival featuring a shortlist of the ten best pitches. Phone companies' efforts to engage the community aren't always this successful. While you can judge for yourself how well the festival supports the local talent, the talent is definitely there. This year's entries have themes touching on family, crime and desolation. Pitches feature prohibition, gold-digging, the apocolypse and the criminal proceeds of acting. As well as the films, the Festival will put on a musical line-up, featuring a DJ set from Mark Ronson and perfomances from locals Bag Raiders and Softwar. Original image by Daquella manera.
In May 2012, enigmatic Brooklyn-based duo MS MR seduced Tumblr disciples with their debut EP, Candy Bar Creep Show. Featuring more nostalgic Americana, sex and death than even Lana Del Rey could pack into three-and-a-half minutes, the video to the second track, ‘Hurricane’, went viral. Sony signed MS MR within weeks. Tours with Marina and the Diamonds and Grouplove soon followed. Given that self-produced music is erupting from the underground at a speed with which listeners can’t keep pace, what has propelled MS MR into the spotlight? A hypnotic intermingling of simmering beats, psychologically explorative lyrics and familiar-sounding hooks. ‘Welcome to the inner workings of my mind/So dark and foul I can’t disguise’ confesses vocalist Lizzy Plapinger in ‘Hurricane’, lamenting the destruction of a relationship through fear and self-doubt. Her clear, authentic vocal stylings have inspired comparisons to Florence Welch and Natasha Khan. MS MR will debut in Australia at the 2013 Laneway Festival. Satellite shows in Sydney and Melbourne will feature Brisbane-based YesYou as support act.
It can be hard to connect with a story happening a world away — until you see a photograph that makes it feel like it's taking place next door. Sydney's Reportage Photo Festival, back for its 10th year and held across the National Art School East Sydney and the Australian Centre for Photography, celebrates this moment of insight from photographers around the world. In the exhibition Guantanamo: If the Lights Go Out, the UK's Edmund Clark captures the environment of the Guantanamo Bay detention centre in stark and surprising compositions. Not only that, he juxtaposes these images with those of homes the inmates have returned to as well as the naval base that is home to the American personnel. The contrast of the domestic, military and eerie imparts its own meanings on the trauma of imprisonment. Alongside, Stephen Dupont's Afghanistan: The Perils of Freedom 1993-2009 takes a long, intimate and knowing view of a country in turmoil. This year Reportage will also be exploring the impact of new online media platforms on documentary photography. In a unique project, photographer Billy Plummer will curate a selection of Flickr's best — a tough task from among millions of users uploading some 5000 images per minute. Irreverent portraiture and computer-friendly square formatting are trends highlighted in the exhibition, titled Reportage Without a Cause: The Rise of Flickr. If you've missed this festival's first decade, you can get acquainted with highlights such as Adam Ward's images of the 2005 Cronulla Riots and Jack Picone's photography of Burmese refugees at Reportage: A Retrospective 1999-2009, a free, outdoor exhibition at the National Art School. You can also catch the projections photo essay series, talks, masterclasses with Stephen Dupont and Jack Picone and the big-time, internationally touring and very worthwhile Annie Liebovitz: A Photographer's Life, 1990-2005 at the MCA. Image by Edmund Clark.
Golf courses have always tried to mimic the natural: undulating hills, thick forests, deep water and unforgiving sand. It's been a trend of recent years to flip this, instead opting for the unusual: whether that be the lush greens and rolling sand dunes of Dubai's desert golf, the foreboding doom presented by a recently dormant volcano at Lanzarote or the thrill (chill?) of ice golf in Uummannaq in Greenland. So we really shouldn't be surprised to discover a recent venture from Troon Golf and Dutch Docklands to create an 18-hole floating golf course in the Maldives, should we? A series of man-made floating platforms containing a number of holes each will be linked together by underwater tunnels. Although seemingly an exercise in extravagance, it is not without conscience. The project will be entirely carbon neutral, using solar energy, sustainable desalination and water cooling technology. The Maldives approval of the project is more than just a cash grab. With rising sea levels, precipitated by climate change, predicted to submerge a series of the Maldives islands, the government is looking offshore for solutions. President Mahamed Nasheed is even looking to purchase new land in other countries to house his people. The verdict is still out on the project, drawing out such loaded terms as 'obscene' and 'indulgent' but also 'responsible' and 'socially inclusive'.
Fans of alliteration and Mexican culture will want to mark this one in their diaries; it combines fiery food, Latin music and a street party in Macquarie Place. Having previously won awards for Sydney's Best Tacos, the La Lupita team have moved permanently into The Basement and this event celebrates their authentic approach to Mexican cuisine. Check out the rest of our top ten picks of Good Food Month here.
The Chaser team recently cut the red tape on the Giant Dwarf, the restored Cleveland Street Theatre, as a hub for satirists. Enter the self-proclaimed '#QandA on crack', A Rational Fear, who'll be taking on one of Australian politics' most talked about former ministers of late: Bob Carr. Led by Dan Ilic of Hungry Beast and Can of Worms, the politically-focused comedy outlet takes to Giant Dwarf monthly with some of the wittiest minds around taking on today's top stories. ARF recently hit a $50,000 funding goal on Pozible, so expect slow-burning world domination (or at least Australian daily political satire domination) to follow, as A Rational Fear becomes a ten-week digital comedy series. Following the release of his controversial autobiography Diary of a Foreign Minister, the former federal Labor minister Bob Carr will be this month's special guest; to be grilled by Ilic and the ARF panel about everything from ICAC to pyjamas. This month's instalment will also feature Greg Fleet, Lewis Hobba (triple j, Spicks and Specks), James Colley (Junkee) and Hannah May Reilly (Girls Gone Mild). If you can't make it to Giant Dwarf on Monday, April 28 or if you can't muster the 20 clams for a ticket, FBi Radio will be broadcasting the show live from 8pm. The next instalment won't land until early June, so don't sit on your hands.
Loosen your grasp on the truth and prepare to embrace a bit of deception, because this year's Sydney's Writers' Festival is all about lies. Returning for its 22nd edition from Monday, April 29, to Sunday, May 5, the internationally renowned literary event will take over venues across the city, bringing with it a dazzling program of local and international writers. This year, they'll examine the ways in which writing can be used as a tool of deceit in today's world — for good and evil — with the theme of 'Lie to Me'. An exciting lineup of literary talent is coming to play, kicking off with opening night's acclaimed trio: bestselling US author of The Interestings, The Wife and The Female Persuasion, Meg Wolitzer; Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah, who's the mind behind dystopian short story collection Friday Black; and award-winning writer of Grief is the Thing with Feathers and Lanny, Max Porter. A star-studded cast of literary talent appears throughout the rest of this year's program, too. Flying the flag for the Aussie writing scene are the likes of Leigh Sales (Any Ordinary Day), Trent Dalton (Boy Swallows Universe), Mark Brandi (The Rip), Clare Wright (You Daughters of Freedom) and Candice Fox (Gone By Midnight). They're joined by a stack of international names, like lauded Pakistani author Fatima Bhutto (The Runaways, Songs of Blood and Sword), who'll be exploring current shifts surrounding politics, gender and race, along with writers like Susan Orlean (The Library Book) and Andrew Sean Greer (Less). Man Booker Prize winner George Saunders (whose novel Lincoln in the Bardo, which has a staggering 166 narrators, was one of our favourite books of 2017) will also be taking to the stage in the City Recital Hall. The festival's also dishing up a range of special events — the Curiosity Lecture Series covers quirky topics from witches to the subculture of 'chilli-heads', Eddie Sharp's Erotic Fan Fiction makes its hotly anticipated and cheeky return, and an assortment of festival guests share stories of their own queer literary heroes in a segment called Gay For Page. While the Sydney Writers' Festival hub will remain at Carriageworks, events will be held across the city — stretching from Sydney Town Hall across to Penrith and down to Wollongong. Sydney Writers' Festival returns from April 29–May 5. Tickets go on sale at 9am on Friday, March 15. Images: Prudence Upton
Home to raindrop cakes, Nutella gyoza and salted caramel gyoza, Harajuku Gyoza clearly likes getting creative with its menu. The chain is fond of trying out new things with its dumpling range in particular, as its experiments with mac 'n' cheese, pepperoni pizza and marshmallow versions have demonstrated. But mixing things up isn't only about stuffing gyoza with different kinds of ingredients. That's all well and good — and tasty — but the Australian brand likes to get creative elsewhere, too. Now on the chain's winter menu: charcoal karaage chicken fondue. All of those words really do describe exactly what you'll be eating, so get ready to dip charcoal-coated bite-sized pieces of karaage chicken into a hot pot of oh-so-gooey cheese. If your stomach isn't already rumbling, it really should be. Just how long the new addition to the menu will be hanging around for your dipping pleasure hasn't yet been revealed, but a serving will cost you $14. And if you fancy pairing the new charcoal karaage chicken fondue with any of the chain's other inventive dishes — or after devouring cheeseburger gyoza, which is stuffed with burger pieces, aged cheddar, onion, pickles, mustard and tomato sauce; and mozzarella gyoza, which is filled with the obvious, then deep-fried and sprinkled with Twisties salt — that's up to you. Harajuku Gyoza's charcoal karaage chicken fondue is now available at all Australian stores — at Darling Harbour in Sydney; at South Bank and the CBD in Brisbane; and in Broadbeach on the Gold Coast.
If the stones and shopfronts of Lygon Street could talk, they'd surely do so in Italian. Sometimes referred to as Melbourne's Little Italy, the iconic Carlton thoroughfare has played a major role in Australia's cultural and gastronomical development over the past 60 years, and it is now the subject of a new home-grown documentary: Lygon Street – Si parla Italiano. The story begins in the years following World War II, during which time millions of migrants left Europe in search of new beginnings. Of those that made the long journey to Australia, one in six were from Italy, many of whom came based on the promise of jobs that in reality didn't exist. At first, the government funnelled them into migrant centres (viewers are left to draw their own parallels to the treatment of asylum seekers today). The conditions were shabby and the means of entertainment scarce, but the biggest sticking point for the Italians was the terrible quality of the food. Soon, the migrants flooded out into the community in search of a place where they could call their own. As if by fate, they settled on a street named Lygon. Before long, the road was littered with restaurants, coffee bars, grocers and delicatessens, many of them with written signs in the window reading 'Si parla Italiano', meaning 'we speak Italian'. Locals were suspicious of the settlers at first, but were soon won over by the quality of their cooking. By the '80s, Lygon Street was one of the hottest night spots in the city, home to bars, clubs and theatres, not to mention, the scene of raucous celebration in the wake of Italy's 1986 World Cup victory. Silky narration by Anthony LaPaglia keeps the film from feeling too much like a history lesson. Directors Shannon Swan and Angelo Pricolo combine archival footage and traditional talking heads with a more flavoursome approach to storytelling by inviting some of the street's oldest pioneers — the owners of establishments like L'Alba and University Cafe — out for dinner. Over plates of pasta, the old friends recall stories from their past, laughing and shouting over the top of each other as they argue about which one owned the first espresso machine in Australia. It's an ingenious way of making viewers feel included — a Saturday night dinner in one of Lygon's bustling eateries. Admittedly, it's hard to imagine Si parla Italiano being as interesting to anyone from outside of certain areas of Melbourne (although the film has just scored a limited release nationwide). Locals will be thoroughly charmed, particularly when factoring in the rather surreal experience of exiting the theatre onto the boulevard they've just been watching. If nothing else, the doco is a savvy marketing tool for traders. No one's likely to walk out of the film not craving an Italian meal. https://youtube.com/watch?v=WOsIFtJTkiE
For a while there, it seemed like every hip hop tour to Australia was doomed to fail. Poor ticket sales, high-profile artists that don't show up, lazy and greedy managers and a general lack of any business savvy whatsoever have conspired to kill off a handful of festivals and some major tours in just the last year or two. But in the midst of all that, Rap City has not only gone ahead, it has thrived. Since its inception in 2010 the single-stage mini-festival has brought out some of the all-time greats of the game, from Ghostface Killah and DOOM to The Beatnuts and Masta Ace. This time around, Rap City will be headlined by none other than Talib Kweli, one of the most thoughtful, socially aware and lyrically gifted MCs around. His 1998 collaboration album with Mos Def — Mos Def and Talib Kweli Are Black Star — remains a masterpiece of politically and socially conscious hip hop, but over 15 years and half-a-dozen albums Kweli has proved time and again that he is one of the most gifted lyricists of his generation. With a new album, Prisoner of Conscious, recently released featuring Miguel, Curren$y, Kendrick Lamar, Marsha Ambrosius and Busta Rhymes, Kweli is sure to be at his energetic, eloquent best. Joining Kweli will be Homeboy Sandman, the rapidly rising star signed to Stones Throw Records (home to the likes of DOOM, Peanut Butter Wolf, Madlib, Australia's own Jonti and the late, great J Dilla). His praises as a lyricist and intellect have been sung by XXL, The Source, NPR, Rolling Stone and everyone in between, but his beats have a groove so good you almost don't notice that Homeboy's lyrics challenge almost every thought you have ever had. And if that weren't enough, these twin lyrical titans are being joined by Trademark 'Da Skydiver', the next big thing from the Jet Life Crew label — home to the likes of Curren$y, Smoke DZA and Sir Michael Rocks (formerly of The Cool Kids). With a handful of rapturously received mixtapes under his belt, Trademark is currently putting his finishing touches on his highly anticipated album Flamingo Barnes 2, which is due on the eve of his Australian Rap City tour. If anyone ever told you hip hop was dead, make sure you drag them along to Rap City and shut them up. MELBOURNE – Thursday October 3 @ The Hi-Fi PERTH – Friday October 4 @ Villa BRISBANE – Saturday October 5th @ The Hi-Fi SYDNEY – Sunday (Long Weekend) October 6 @ The Hi-Fi Tickets go on sale on Monday, 12 August, via Moshtix and OZTIX.
Bummed you didn't get a Splendour ticket? Angry you bought dozens of Splendour tickets so you could scalp them, and now find yourself holding hundreds of dollars' worth of paper after organisers shut down the re-sale facility over the weekend? Decided not to go this year, thinking you could totally see all the bands you wanted to see when they did their sideshows? Well whoever you are, it's time to whip out those diaries and start making plans — we found the mother of all emails in our inboxes this morning, bursting with sideshow goodness. Listed below are all the details you need for nine bands — electronica wunderkind James Blake, old Splendour favourites Cold War Kids, so-hot-right-now sister act HAIM, MS MR (described to me as "Florence + the Machine, plus Lana Del Rey, with some Kavinsky thrown in"), the R&B-ish indie of Mancunians Everything Everything, Next Big Thing Jake Bugg, LA noise merchants FIDLAR, fast-rising Poms Palma Violets and kings of Florida chill Surfer Blood. And those are just nine of the eleventy-billion bands (we counted!) announced on the full Splendour lineup just a couple of weeks ago. More shows will be announced for the other bands as we get closer to the date. (Though sadly not for The National, Mumford & Sons or TV on the Radio, who are playing their only Australian shows at the festival.) Full ticketing information is on the Secret Sounds website. JAMES BLAKE Fri 26 July – Astor Theatre, Perth Tues 30 July – Sydney Opera House, Sydney Wed 31 July – Palais Theatre, Melbourne Fri 2 Aug – Town Hall, Auckland www.jamesblakemusic.com COLD WAR KIDS Monday 29 July – Metro Theatre, Sydney Tuesday 30 July – The HiFi, Melbourne Thursday 1 August – The Gov, Adelaide Friday 2 August – Capitol, Perth www.coldwarkids.com HAIM Wed 24 July – The Hi-Fi, Sydney Thu 25 July – The Hi-Fi, Melbourne www.HAIMtheband.com MS MR Fri 26 July – The Metro, Sydney Mon 29 July – The Hi-Fi, Melbourne www.msmrsounds.com EVERYTHING EVERYTHING Fri 26 July – The Corner, Melbourne Sat 27 July – The Metro, Sydney www.everything-everything.co.uk JAKE BUGG Thurs 25 July – Oxford Arts Factory, Sydney Sun 28 July – The Corner, Melbourne www.jakebugg.com FIDLAR Mon 29 July – The Corner, Melbourne Wed 31 July – Oxford Arts Factory, Sydney Fri 2 August – Spinoff Festival, Adelaide Sat 3 August – The Bakery, Perth www.fidlarmusic.com PALMA VIOLETS Mon 29 July – Northcote Social Club, Melbourne Tues 30 July – Oxford Arts Factory, Sydney www.palmaviolets.co.uk SURFER BLOOD Wed 24 July – The Corner, Melbourne Fri 26 July – Oxford Arts Factory, Sydney www.surferblood.com
Since arriving in Potts Point in 2013, Harajuku Gyoza has always kept things simple: gyoza and beer. Now, the Japanese eatery is opening a new eatery and craft brewery in Darling Harbour next week. Harajuku Gyoza Beer Stadium will throw open its doors on Friday, November 9. As the name suggests, it's a behemoth. The harbourside spot will feature 'stadium'-style stepped seating as well as booths, a mezzanine level and outdoor spots. Expect a Harajuku aesthetic with lots of the brand's signature red. It'll be the second 'stadium' in Australia — one opened on the Gold Coast in mid-2017. Beer is the feature here. On walking in, you'll notice four massive beer tanks behind the bar. Each 1200-litre vessel will hold one of six Japanese drops brewed on-site under the watchful eye of Yoyogi, a Japanese brewery that's been operating in Australia in 2015 and in Kyoto, Japan, for over a century. Joining them at the taps will be another six brews, bringing the total available at any one time to 12. Meanwhile, the menu will be the selfsame one that's been attracting ravenous hordes to Potts Point. Among the dishes are nine types of gyoza, fried chicken, chicken ramen and salmon sashimi poke. The venue's signature desserts will feature, too, including its raindrop cake and salted caramel and Nutella gyoza. The Beer Stadium will join a raft of other small breweries nearby, including the neighbouring All Hands Brewing and James Squire brewhouse at the Overseas Passenger Terminal. Harajuku Gyoza Beer Stadium will open at Darling Harbour next Friday, November 9.
When you spend 12 days hopping between Sydney's cinemas trying to watch as many movies as possible, you learn a few things. You learn that some films demand a second viewing, that Twilight stars keep making ace post-vampire-romance choices, and that there's a whole heap of people that are really rather fond of chickens. You also learn that simply watching tourists walk around can be both heartbreaking and revealing, that some Netflix flicks demand the big screen treatment, and that the Australian film industry should have a new multicultural hit on its hand. And, you realise that Sydney Film Festival is the best time of year for the city's movie lovers — but, you already knew that, didn't you? Our film critics Sarah Ward and Tom Clift discovered all of the above at this year's SFF, and, now they've emerged from their massive movie marathon, they've shared the results. Whittling down their huge viewing lists to these 12 standouts, here's what they loved, were surprised by and utterly embraced the strangeness of — that is, the best, weirdest and most unexpected films of the 2017 Sydney Film Festival. BEST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iT9m2huUTgA ALI'S WEDDING If there's any justice, the delightful Ali's Wedding will be one of the breakout hits of 2017. Inspired by the disastrous arranged marriage of screenwriter and lead actor Osamah Sami, the film, which has been billed as Australia's first Muslim rom-com, follows a young man who must navigate the expectations of his religious community after falling in love with a woman other than his betrothed. Shot in and around Melbourne, the movie is at once a vital portrait of life in multicultural Australia, a deeply moving love story, and one of the funniest local productions of the past few years. It's in cinemas in August. Tell your friends. — Tom Clift https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVyGCxHZ_Ko GOOD TIME Folks, thank the film gods for Twilight. Do it. Without it, we wouldn't have two of today's most talented actors making such interesting — and excellent — projects. SFF 2016 might've been all about Kristen Stewart, but SFF 2014 guest Robert Pattinson jumps back into the festival's spotlight with Good Time. The fast-paced flick mightn't offer a good time for his character, a low-level crim running around New York trying to rustle up some cash to get his brother out of jail after a bank robbery, but it's a mighty good time for audiences. Directing duo Josh and Ben Safdie (the latter of which also stars as Pattinson's brother) ramp up the energy and tension, shoot with gritty vividness, and bring Jennifer Jason Leigh and Captain Phillips Oscar nominee Barkhad Abdi along for the ride. And then there's the pulsating score — trust us, Oneohtrix Point Never won the soundtrack award at this year's Cannes Film Festival for a damn good reason. — Sarah Ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A95a94CVxlg THE BEGUILED With The Beguiled, Sofia Coppola won a directing gong at Cannes, making her the first woman in more than 50 years to do so. After viewing the film at this year's Sydney Film Festival, it's easy to understand why. An immaculately shot Southern gothic thriller, the movie takes place in an all-girls boarding school during the dying days of the American Civil War, where life is suddenly thrown into turmoil by the arrival of a wounded Yankee soldier. Seething with sexual tension, and surprisingly funny, The Beguiled also benefits from an absolutely stellar cast, with Nicole Kidman, Kirsten Dunst, Elle Fanning and Colin Farrell all operating at the top of their game. — TC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ui92Scs8Mns A GHOST STORY A Ghost Story is always going to be known as that film where Casey Affleck stands around underneath a sheet. And, that description is apt. Reuniting this year's Manchester by the Sea best actor Oscar winner with his Ain't Them Bodies Saints co-star Rooney Mara and writer/director David Lowery (also of Pete's Dragon), he does just that after his character is killed — but, if you didn't think it'd make for one of the best movies of the year so far, think again. Moody and minimalistic (as a costume anyone could make gives away), the film breathes new (after)life into the idea of haunted houses in a thoughtful and emotion-filled manner. As Affleck's ghost lurks, the movie offers up an astute understanding of how mourning and memories linger over time, and remain forever intertwined with certain places. — SW https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgDhpy9Z-NM A FANTASTIC WOMAN A Fantastic Woman? Yes, this sensitive drama places one front and centre. A fantastic film? You bet. After using a compassionate gaze to explore the world of an older lady trying to find happiness in Gloria, Chilean filmmaker Sebastián Lelio turns his attention to Marina (Daniela Vega), a waitress and singer whose life is thrown into disarray when tragedy strikes. The family of her much older lover is horrified, judging her transgender status rather than daring to let her into their lives — or let her mourn. The movie doesn't make the same mistake, in an effort that proves empathetic and engaging from start to finish, complete with an exceptional lead performance and one perfect song cue. — SW CALL ME BY YOUR NAME We were mighty excited about Call Me By Your Name when it screened at Sundance, we loved it at the Berlinale, and we still love it now. Oh boy, does Luca Guadagnino's (A Bigger Splash) latest and best feature to date more than deliver. Let us put it this way: when you're watching a 17-year-old become infatuated with his father's handsome research assistant, played by Armie Hammer, you're feeling every single emotion he's feeling. And, you're falling head over heels for everything about this masterpiece as well. Call Me By Your Name is the kind of effort that couldn't be more seductive, from the sumptuous sights of its scenic Italian setting to the summertime heat — and sizzling sentiments to match — that radiate from the screen. Keep an eye on Timothée Chalamet, too, who plays the teenager in question. If this movie is any guide, he should become one of cinema's next big things. — SW WEIRDEST https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojoVppEADyU OKJA Very few filmmakers would even conceive of a movie as unusual as Okja. And perhaps only South Korea's Bong Joon-ho, who previously helmed Snowpiercer, would be able to pull it off. A Netflix production about a precocious little girl who must save her hippopotamus-sized 'super pig' from a nefarious multinational, the film is a scathing corporate satire wrapped up in a rollicking adventure — and despite outward appearances, it is definitely not suitable for children. Tilda Swinton, Paul Dano and Jake Gyllenhaal lead an impressive English-speaking cast, but the real star is South Korean newcomer Ahn Seo-hyeon, as well as the flawless special effects that bring her enormous friend to life. As strangely wonderful as it is wonderfully strange, Okja is well worth your attention when it hits Netflix at the end of June. — TC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nw3fHdL_D68 THE SQUARE Sometimes, films prove odd purely due to the way they approach their topic. Sometimes, it's the little things — having Elisabeth Moss' character share her apartment with a chimpanzee — for example. This year's Cannes Film Festival Palme d'Or winner, The Square does both, as well as litter its frames with performance art that's both intentionally staged and organically shows how the boundaries between life and theatricality can all-too-easily blur. At face value, it's a satire of the creative world, but everything about the society surrounding contemporary art galleries comes under the microscope in what proves a dense and disarming effort. Director Ruben Östlund last made audiences squirm with relationship drama Force Majeure, and he's up to his brilliant tricks again here, as aided by a standout lead performance by Danish actor Claes Bang. — SW https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjA7irNL-no CHICKEN PEOPLE Who would have guessed that one of the year's most emotional movies would be set in the high stakes world of competitive chicken rearing? Directed by Nicole Lucas Haimes, Chicken People chronicles a year in the life of three diehard chicken breeders as they prepare their best birds for the prestigious Ohio National Poultry Show. Like the best documentaries about obsessive individuals, the film is funny without ever making fun of its subjects. By the time the end credits roll, you'll be a chicken person too. — TC MOST UNEXPECTED https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSv99sd_A5o AUSTERLITZ On paper, Austerlitz sounds oh-so-simple. Filmmaker Sergei Loznitsa places his camera at certain spots throughout two former German concentration camps, lets it roll, and records tourists as they walk through the sites. He doesn't offer move his frame to follow or zoom in on anyone, provide explanatory voiceover or intertitles, or direct the audience's attention in any way. That means you're forced to peer and probe, and to see and scrutinise, as these visitors wander through places known for such horrific atrocities while wearing "Cool Story Bro" shirts and staring at their mobile phones. Prepare to draw plenty of conclusions about and insights into human nature from their ordinary exploits, including many that you won't expect. — SW BETTER WATCH OUT Picket fences, a blonde babysitter and a psychotic killer: on paper Better Watch Out sounds like the most stereotypical slasher movie imaginable. And for most of its first act, it is. But just when you think you've seen it all before, the film pivots wildly and suddenly all bets are off. Mixing genuine scares with knowing black humour — not to mention some pretty spot on commentary about how young men and boys are conditioned to think about women — this US-Australia co-production from writer-director Chris Peckover is one of the best meta horror films we've seen in quite some time. — TC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0xDZy8ejTk BRIGSBY BEAR There's a reason that Brigsby Bear made SFF's top five audience favourites this year — and it's not just because, having voted Ali's Wedding and Call Me By Your Name into the top two spots, festival attendees clearly have great taste. Rarely has a movie been so endearingly earnest without ever overplaying its hand, or devolving into triteness or schmaltz, particularly one that toys around with such a been-there, seen-that, still-living-it topic as pop culture obsession. Following a grown man still attached to his favourite TV show for reasons best discovered by watching, the film from Saturday Night Live writer/director Dave McCary and performer Kyle Mooney will make you want to give it the biggest hug possible. Mark Hamill, Claire Danes, Greg Kinnear and Andy Samberg also pop up, but Mooney and his furry best friend well and truly steal the show. — SW By Sarah Ward and Tom Clift.
Coffee is a complicated game. You need to source the right beans, grind them correctly, filter them for the specified time, perhaps froth the milk to that just-right temp and you need some pure-ass water. That's because coffee is 98 percent H2O, so some average water will mean your coffee will taste average — which is a damn shame if you've shelled out for some luxe Panama Geisha beans. Specialty coffee cafes are all over this and filter their water extensively, but baby home baristas aren't so diligent. So, to ensure they don't waste those beans on sub-par water, some genius has created a type of purified water specifically for making coffee. It's called Aquiem, and it's labelled its product as 'enhanced water'. While that sounds like total wank, it's essentially water that's been distilled to take all the extra stuff out of it. Then, a blend of good minerals that are supposedly meant to enhance the flavour of coffee are added back in. Then they're packaged and sold for a couple of dollars a pop. "What you definitely do not want is to have things like zinc and lead, fluoride, chlorine and large amounts of calcium in the water. All of that effects the taste of the coffee," co-founder Rob Vidacovich told Daily Coffee News. "What does have a favourable effect on coffee are things like magnesium, potassium, and a certain right blend of calcium." The whole idea is to allow non-pro baristas to make the most of their beans and drink a damn good cup of coffee every time. The Louisiana-based company has been working on the product for six years, but officially launched at the start of this year. Aquiem is currently sold in retailers in the state, but can be ordered online. Via Daily Coffee News.
Your summer harbourside dining adventures have just jumped up a notch. Pier One Sydney has officially announced that The Gantry Restaurant and Bar will open in mid-December. And, by way of appetiser, they've released a handful of images, allowing you to take a sneaky peek before the real thing swings into action. Holding fast to The Rocks' heritage charm, The Gantry simultaneously takes on a modern vibe. Think plenty of wood, including polished floorboards; mellow blues and off-whites; and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, maximising water views. The design references Pier One's original structures, which played an important role in connecting North Sydney with the CBD, way back before the Sydney Harbour Bridge existed. "The Gantry will be an incomparable indoor and outdoor restaurant and bar," says owner Robert Magid. "It will blend contemporary design with the noble features of its past. As the signature restaurant of Australia’s inaugural Autograph Collection hotel, we look forward to offering guests an unsurpassed dining and drinking experience combined with the finest views Sydney has to offer." It should be noted, too, that The Gantry is in a brilliant spot for arts lovers, with the Sydney Theatre Company, Bangarra Dance Theatre and Sydney Dance Company just a few hundred metres away. As far as the menu goes, you can expect fresh, seasonal produce, delivered with a rustic touch and an interactive element. You'll be able watch much of the cooking up close, with a chef's table to be located in the dining room, and the main kitchen to be of the large, open variety. Plus, if you're ordering seafood, you’ll be invited to choose your own dinner at a dedicated bar. The Gantry Restaurant and Bar will open at Pier One in mid-December. Image credit: Jarrad Seng.
Contemporary artist Justene Williams is known for her ambitious pieces — her 2014 work, Santa Was a Psychopomp, involved constructing a giant snow dome from a range of materials — but the new work, She Conjured the Clouds, might be her most daring project yet. The world premiere work, taking place at Campbelltown Art Centre, is part of Sydney Festival and each 40-minute session is part live-performance, part installation. As you watch, you'll follow two children on an adventure to meet swamp creatures and ghost bats in a tactile world where you can eat parts of the scenery. Williams brings to life a series of characters that communicate through sonic costumes, from a gang of native motorbike frogs to a ball of fairy floss. She's not the only person to perform. Yellow Wiggle Emma Watkins, who has extraordinary skills in AUSLAN, is the work's choreographer and one of the team of performers, which includes Deaf dancer Elvin Lam. She Conjured the Clouds has been designed for audiences of all ages and abilities, including those in the Deaf and hard of hearing communities. The work also features video animation, recorded and live music, costumes, dance, aerial performance, sculptural objects and the smell and taste of popcorn. Plus, there will be an audio description performance, a tactile tour and a relaxed performance, all on Friday, January 17. Images: Rafaela Pandolfini; Justene Williams, She Conjured the Clouds, 2020.
Were you planning on spending the long weekend wrapped in a blanket cocoon with a season of Keeping Up with the Kardashians and a packet of Malteser mini eggs? Well, even if you weren't, here's a good enough reason to do just that: an all-reality TV streaming service is launching in Australia on Tuesday, March 22. hayu is the latest subscription video on-demand service to launch in Australia, and it's essentially Netflix but purely for reality TV. The service is part of NBCUniversal International, and will pull from their massive back catalogue of content to offer full 'box sets' of over 3000 episodes of shows like the Kardashians, Real Housewives and Made in Chelsea. Most new episodes will be available on the same day as their US release, and the platform will allow you to share snippets (i.e. Kardashian quotes) directly to your Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. It's either your worst nightmare or a vision of heaven you never thought would be socially realised. "We're excited to be unveiling March 22 as the launch date for hayu in Australia," said NBCUniversal's Jay McNamara, EVP Strategy Development and Analysis. "Curated by reality experts for reality fans, hayu is fully integrated with news feeds and social media and, uniquely, its next-generation functionality will enable Australian fans to share some of the content they love." Binge watchers of reality TV will be ecstatic (if not just secretly) over this news. As for all the haters.. hayu will launch on Tuesday, March 22. You'll be able to get a 30-day free trial, with the subscription costing $5.99 per month thereafter. For more info, visit hayu.com.
It falls to us all at one time or another, to bust a better than average move, usually in relative privacy, and then to wonder at the injustice of a universe that neither recognises nor subsidises our rhythmic genius. This March, as host of the 2018 Keir Choreographic Award and Public Program, Carriageworks will be offering kitchen-dancers a chance to up their game, as well as showcasing the work of choreographers who are at the forefront of contemporary physical performance in Australia. From 15–17, four of Australia's best choreographers will be vying for the Keir Choreographic Award, a $30,000 prize recognising innovation and experimentation in movement-based art. There are currently eight artists in the running, all heavy hitters, half of whom will be culled during a semi-final in Melbourne — Amrita Hepi, Melanie Lane, Bhenji Ra, Nana Bilus, Luke George, Lillian Steiner, Prue Lang and Branch Nebula. The chosen four will present their 20-minute performances at Carriageworks over three nights, before the prize is announced by the jury. For a week or so either side of the competition, the Keir Public Program will offer a series of discussions, workshops and seminars to help emerging artists and enthusiastic movers reconceptualise their approach to physical performance and expression. A number of international artists will be in this mix, with US choreographer and improviser Ishmael Houston-Jones running a workshop entitled Black Dance, and Hungarian choreographer and performer Eszter Salamon leading a choreographic lab at Critical Path, a centre for dance development. None of this is to suggest your weekend dabbing sessions need to change in the slightest. But for those of you who harbour dreams of performing for a non-cat audience, this is a great opportunity to expand your repertoire and see the pros in full flight.
2019 is nowhere near over, but it has already been a standout year for South Korean cinema. Not only is Bong Joon-ho's Parasite one of the best films of the year — and one of the most talked about — but it earned the Asian nation its first Palme d'Or from the Cannes Film Festival. No wonder director Bong was greeted by a crowd at the airport when he arrived back from the south of France after the glitzy event. Parasite is also one of the movies on this year's Korean Film Festival in Australia lineup; however the smash hit isn't the only great flick on offer between Thursday, August 22 and Saturday, August 31. If you're keen to dive deep into the exciting and eclectic films produced by the country — which celebrates 100 years in the movie business this year — then you're in the right spot. Screening at Dendy Opera Quays, this year's KOFFIA features everything from blockbusters to indies, dramas to comedies, and not only brand new movies, but recent favourites you might've missed elsewhere. Step into the action-infused political thrills of Take Point, about a plot to abduct North Korea's supreme leader; catch cop flick The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil before it's remade in the US; head back in time with period zombie effort Rampart; and enjoy Hong Sang-soo's latest melancholic drama, Hotel by the River. Or, you can laugh at body-swap comedy The Dude in Me, revel in Korean War tap-dance musical Swing Kids, giggle at the undead with The Odd Family: Zombie on Sale and see the lighter side of law and order with Extreme Job. While you're feasting your eyes on all of the above, you'll also help commemorate KOFFIA's huge 10th year. In Sydney only, the festival will also add a few days at the end for something both timely and special. One Bong Joon-ho movie isn't enough, so KOFFIA is screening a retrospective of his films from Sunday, September 1 to Tuesday, September 3.
Sydney's go-to spot for pork-fuelled splendour, Swine & Co., are taking cues from Don Draper et al, launching a brand new night set to transport Sydneysiders to Manhattan's Upper East Side circa 1960. Wednesday night at Swine Bar is now known as Swine Royale, inviting you to dapper up and indulge in a game or two of blackjack, Mad Men-inspired cocktails and all those celebrated savoury eats you've travelled across the city for — including those infamous house pork crackling chips. With the last-of-the-last Mad Men — part two of season seven, CAHMAAHHHHN — on the way for 2014, general Mad Men buzz (and inevitable costume party themes) is about to enjoy one last hurrah at Swine & Co. Head chef Michael Box has created a special Swine Royale menu theme, while shiny new bar manager David Lloyd has used the MM team's favourite spirits as a starting point to inspire a stunning range of cocktails available only on Wednesdays. Try an R&R (Rittenhouse, Amaro Averna, Licor 43 espresso and agave), a Breakaway (chilli and basil-infused 42 Below, tomato, Worcestershire, fresh horseradish and lemon) and more classy specimens, all $18 each. Fresh out of coin to try more of Lloyd's elixirs? A few rounds of blackjack on the art deco mezzanine level, beside the Champagne bar, could win you free drinks. That's worth brushing up for. Swine and Co.'s Royal Nights launch from November 19 through to December 17. Find the Swine Bar housed in the former Bank of New South Wales; 16 O'Connell Street, Sydney.
Dragging yourself off the couch on a Sunday isn't always easy, but you'll feel a little more inspired with Since I Left You's Slow Sundays. Having launched earlier this year, the dog-friendly event series celebrates the simple joys of a lazy Sunday. Expect hands-on workshops, market stalls, rejuvenating food and drinks, and an ambient soundtrack to lift your end of the week. You might not have guessed that a CBD bar would be the perfect space for an event like this, but the team at SILY is all about making the most of their picturesque courtyard. With a towering mural, twinkly lights and a regular program of live music, the space makes for an ideal hidey-hole to escape the buzz of the city. Coming up on Sunday, March 30 at 1pm, the second edition of Slow Sundays is all about the simple joy of crafting. Thanks to the crafting expertise of Handy with Scissors, you'll be able to get hands-on with collage and card-making, watercolour painting, embroidery, tin embossing, basic leatherwork and more. It wouldn't be a booking at SILY without a dose of live music, so your crafternoon adventure will be soundtracked by a setlist of appropriately lazy Sunday-themed tunes by Closed Circuits DJs. And, perhaps most importantly, your ticket includes a complimentary welcome margarita, which ought to help get your creative juices flowing if nothing else. No matter if you're a DIY newbie or a total craftaholic, you're welcome to come along and explore your artistic side at your own pace.
Earlier this year, Australia's caffeinated booze expert Mr Black gave fans of alcohol and coffee the premixed beverage they definitely wanted, with the company's bottled coffee negroni marking its first-ever pre-batched cocktail. Now, it's adding another tipple to the range, and it's another big hitter: the cold brew old fashioned, or cold fashioned. Yes, there's a time for coffee and there's a time for cocktails — but, sometimes, there's a time in the day when you want both and you don't want to do any of the mixing yourself. The cold fashioned is made with Mr Black coffee liqueur, rye whiskey and bitters, and you can expect both coffee and chocolate flavours to come through, as well as a bit of spice. Each bottle is going for $49 and can be used to make five cocktails (yes, that's a very reasonably $9.80 a drink). To make said cocktail, you just need to pour 100 millilitres of the sweet stuff into a glass over ice and garnish with a citrus twist — if you want to get a little fancy. It's the third new product that the Mr Black team has released during lockdown, with the company also launching a hand sanitiser in late March. As well as selling thousands (and thousands) of bottles to the public, the team donated hundreds to front-line medical workers, not-for-profits, testing clinics and medical centres. To get your hands on a bottle of cold fashioned, which, knowing Mr Black's track record, will sell out fast, head over to the Mr Black website. It's currently offering free shopping on all orders over $80. Mr Black's cold fashioned is on sale now for $49. Top image: Guy Davies.
For 73 years now, since the film first danced into cinemas in June 1952, there's never been a bad time to see the musical delight that is Singin' in the Rain on the big screen. Head to the Randwick Ritz's session at 2pm on Sunday, September 7, 2025, however, and you'll be doing more than revelling in movie magic and playing tribute to an all-time classic. The Gene Kelly-, Debbie Reynolds- and Donald O'Connor-starring Singin' in the Rain was David Stratton's favourite film. Accordingly, at a session presented by Sydney Film Festival — where Stratton was the Director between 1966–83 — the iconic flick is getting a spin to honour one of its biggest fans, as well as a glorious figure in Australian film culture, after his death in August 2025. Heading along means being a part of this ode to Stratton, and also trying not to tap your toes to the movie's musical numbers such as 'Good Morning', 'Make 'Em Laugh', 'Gotta Dance' and, of course, the titular 'Singin' in the Rain'. If you've somehow missed the 1920s-set film so far, Singin' in the Rain charts a story of romance and stardom, as silent film star Don Lockwood (Kelly) tries to adjust to the age of talking pictures, and aspiring actress Kathy Selden (Reynolds) tries to make her big break. It was actually crafted around a heap of existing songs, such the eponymous track, 'Make 'Em Laugh' and 'Good Morning'. Outside of the cinema, you can also check out Stratton and Margaret Pomeranz's star on the Australian Film Walk of Fame.
Next time you crack open a can of BrewDog's Punk IPA, you might find yourself motivated to welcome a new four-legged addition into your family. Teaming up with Animal Welfare League Queensland, the Scottish brewery has brought its Street Dog initiative to Australia — profiling adorable dogs that are currently available for adoption across its cans. If you're the type of person that pats every pooch you see, and takes a daily walk past the local dog park just so you can get a glimpse of those adorable canines and their little faces, then you're also the kind of person who'd love to see pictures of puppers while you're sinking a brew. The photos adorn select Punk IPA packs, which have been badged 'Street Dog'. And yes, if you fall in love with the little fluffball staring back at you from the can, you can give it a home. By picking up a few Street Dog brews — which are on offer in eight- and 16-packs — you'll also be helping doggos in need another way. BrewDog is also donating all of the profits from sales of the beer to Animal Welfare League Queensland. And, although it's brewed at the company's Australian base in Brisbane, it's only making the beer available via its new online store, so everyone nationwide can stare at these canine cuties over their next cold one. Street Dog actually started in the UK earlier this year, as inspired by comedian Ricky Gervais. The comedian tweeted about his genuine fondness for Punk IPA, while also noting that businesses in general were better off giving their money to charities than paying for celebrity endorsements — and, taking his words to heart, BrewDog decided to start supporting homeless dogs, a cause that Gervais has been vocal about. Cue BrewDog cans covered with photos of dogs, which, when they launched in Britain, helped all of the pups featured on the tinnies to find homes. If you're wondering about the timing of bringing the Street Dog initiative to Australia, it's designed to help give the profiled pooches a permanent home before Christmas hits. The 375-millilitre cans will be available to purchase online until sold out. BrewDog's Street Dog limited-edition version of its Punk IPA beer is available to buy as an eight-pack for $40 and a 16-pack for $70.
Only idiots pre-judge films. Trailers are increasingly so misleading that the only true test of a movie is when the lights dim and the titles roll. And yes, idiots pre-judged this film. From the moment it was announced, so-called fanboys declared the female-led Ghostbusters a piece of feminist propaganda – helpfully allowing us to identify precisely who to unfollow on social media. The next level of premature opposition came from those who watched the trailers and deduced that this was to be the unfunniest film of all time. OF. ALL. TIME. If there was to be any merit given to the Ghostbusters pre-haters, it came in the form of the scepticism over reboots in general. The original Ghostbusters was made in 1984, yet there's little beyond the giant hair of Harold Ramis and Sigourney Weaver to make it feel dated – a factor that contributes heavily to its re-watchability. Again, though, the same could be said for Tim Burton's Batman (1989), which only sixteen years later would be spectacularly reimagined by Christopher Nolan in Batman Begins. The key word, of course, is 'reboot', which – unlike remakes – have licence to edit the story, characters and setting of the original for a whole new audience. Paul Feig's Ghostbusters is unreservedly a reboot. Indeed, it bears so little resemblance to the first film that comparisons are, by and large, pointless. Beyond the theme song, name and general busting of ghosts, this is a new film for a new generation, led by four comedic heavyweights in their absolute prime. Kristen Wiig, Melissa McCarthy, Kate McKinnon and Leslie Jones are a powerhouse ensemble, embodying four distinctly new and wonderfully defined characters. Wiig's uptight academic with a zero-point flirtation game bounces perfectly off McCarthy's acerbic renegade scientist, while McKinnon's genius inventor is so absurdly odd that only Jones's streetwise Patty could keep the balance in check. They're a courageous and capable collection of heroes supported by an amusing turn from Chris Hemsworth as the team's air-head secretary. The only time gender is ever even touched upon is in a nod to those internet fanboys, with Wiig reading aloud a YouTube comment that declares "ain't no bitches gonna hunt no ghosts". To suggest that this film's shortcomings have anything to do with its leads being women is so plainly dim as to not even warrant comment. After all, let's remember that just five years ago Feig, Wiig and McCarthy delivered the funniest film of the year in Bridesmaids. No, where Ghostbusters unfortunately falls short is in its story – and it's here that comparisons to the original are unavoidable. The original Ghostbusters was a deceptively complex story masquerading as a simple one, with multiple vignettes that not just cleverly, but critically, came together at the film's climactic crisis point. EPA intervention, an overloaded containment unit, bureaucratic interference and the seemingly-irrelevant lives of several apartment dwelling strangers all suddenly merged with both the Ghostbusters' own story and the ever-growing menace from the opening scene in a spectacular (and genuinely spooky) explosion of paranormal activity. By contrast, Feig's Ghostbusters is a disappointingly simple film striving ever so hard to seem more complex. Everything that happens on the supernatural front is the result of a single, poorly-defined human villain whose motivations for bringing about the apocalypse are nothing more than that he was bullied as a child. Compare that with Dan Aykroyd and Ernie Hudson in the original film as they considered, with genuine trepidation, the possibility that Judgment Day was truly upon them. Their fear became ours, and that combination of bona fide supernatural horror with outstanding humour was what made it one of the most successful and enduring comedies of all time. That's what's so noticeably absent in this reboot: the laughs aren't nearly as frequent as you'd expect, and the scary stuff simply isn't. Yes, there are some spectacularly funny moments, with Jones's debut outing as a Ghostbuster during a metal concert being the standout. Still, for a cast of this calibre, you're right to expect more. As for the ghosts, they scarcely feature until the effects-laden finale, one that's over as quickly as it begins. All in all, this is not a film that's going to destroy your childhood like so many clairvoyant haters suggested. Sadly, it's not quite a home-run either. The film's greatest strength, by far, is its cast. The four leads compliment each other magnificently and there's no scene-stealing; each has her moment in the spotlight, yet knows when to let the others shine. The post-credits scene, too, offers a tantalising hint at what the sequel might concern itself with. Here's hoping it happens sooner rather than later. Feig's Ghostbusters is not a particularly memorable film, but it's an excellent step in the right direction and an exciting glimpse of what might come next. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3ugHP-yZXw
When the eighth season of Game of Thrones finished its run in 2019, bringing the highly popular series to a conclusion, everyone knew that it wasn't really the end. The world created by George RR Martin will live on in his books, whenever the author finally publishes the long-awaited next instalment of his A Song of Ice and Fire series. And, because HBO likes both ratings and advertising dollars, the US cable network will keep the GoT-related TV shows going as well. Like residents of Westeros hoping that summer (or at least autumn) will last for ever, HBO isn't ready to let go of its highly successful commodity. Before GoT even finished, there had been plenty of chatter about what it'll do next, in fact. First, HBO announced that it was considering five different prequel ideas. It then green-lit one to pilot stage, scrapped it and later decided to adapt Martin's House Targaryen-focused Fire & Blood for the small screen instead. Now, the channel is reportedly in the early development phase for another GoT-related series also stemming from Martin's books. This time around, novella series Tales of Dunk and Egg looks set to get the TV treatment, Variety reports — with HBO still eager to keep building upon GoT's massive success, as the network is likely to be for the near future. The project is in the very early stages, however, so there's no word yet on who'll be involved either on- or off-screen. If it does come to fruition, Tales of Dunk and Egg will draw upon three novellas published so far: 1998's The Hedge Knight, 2003's The Sworn Sword and 2010's The Mystery Knight. Set around 90 years before the events of GoT, all three focus on the titular characters. Dunk will eventually become the future Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, Ser Duncan the Tall, while Egg is the future king Aegon V Targaryen — and both earn a mention in the A Song of Ice and Fire novels. As happened with the first proposed GoT prequel — as mentioned above — the fact that HBO is pondering making a new Westeros-set show doesn't mean that it'll end up making it to screens. Still, if you've been missing the chaos of the franchise's fictional world (and could use a return visit as a distraction from the real world), it's welcome news. Until any of the prequels actually drop, you can always rewatch the original — which is streaming in Australia via Binge — or revisit a trailer from its eighth and final season below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kuLUyJdRvSU Via Variety.
Sydney's Opera Bar and Daisy's Milkbar are coming together to create an Aussie milk bar — popping up for only three days over the Easter long weekend. A small section of the harbourside bar will be converted into an old school milk bar, complete with pastel booths, giant gum ball machines and vintage accessories. The nostalgic pop-up will sell drinks reminiscent of everyone's childhood favourites — but here they'll have boozy twists. You'll find alcoholic Cottee's cordial, spiked Milo milkshakes and the Pavlova Colada — it's part dessert, part cocktail and made with Bacardi, pineapple, lime, coconut, passionfruit and meringue. For those left with spare pocket change, you can use it to purchase old school snacks like fairy bread, chocolate crackles and lamingtons. If you prefer savoury treats, look to the classic milk bar burger or the deli plates of Jatz, olives, cheese and cabanossi. The pop-up will also be running a host of nostalgic activities, including a lolly guessing competition, arcade games, board game tournaments and lucky dips.
If you, like The Who, think you've played every pinball machine there is to play, you'd be dead wrong. This December Sydney's Belvoir St Theatre is bringing you a '70s-inspired pop-up arcade heaven to slake the lust of any pinball wizard. Belvoir's Downstairs Theatre will be transformed into the ultimate basement games room, complete with an original NES (Nintendo Entertainment System) and a bar to quench the thirst that can only come with intense gaming. The beers will be provided by Coopers at $6 a pop, and local lads Poor Toms Gin will be slinging a deliciously retro punch for $10. The Bumper Bar pop-up will run from December 2 right up until Christmas Eve to coincide with Belvoir's last show of the year, Girl Asleep. On top of that, the cash you drop will go to the theatre's Arts Access Program, which provides theatre tickets to students who may not be able to access them otherwise. Then bucks gets you entry to the bar and unlimited gaming, so get those supple wrists working — there's pinball to be played. Belvoir's Bumper Bar will run from December 2-24 in their Downstairs Theatre at Belvoir Street, Surry Hills. For more info visit belvoir.com.au. Image: Wayne Patrick Finn via Wikimedia Commons.
Calling all dancing queens – it's time to dust off those tambourines and head to the annual Trundle ABBA Festival. Australia's only festival dedicated to the Swedish supergroup, the Trundle ABBA Festival is the perfect opportunity to pay homage to Agnetha, Björn, Benny and Anni-Frid and the endless good times their pop tunes bring. Tribute band Björn Again will make you think you're watching the real deal, when they put on an outstanding performance of all your favourite ABBA hits while dressed to the nines in glitzy '70s ABBA-inspired attire. Rhonda Burchmore and Lara Mulcahy, who played best friends in the Australian stage production of Mamma Mia!, will also be putting on a show – a hilarious tale of their childhoods growing up as diehard ABBA fans, interspersed with ABBA hits.
Canberra will be filled with all things art, architecture and design between Wednesday, November 2–Sunday, November 20 as Design Canberra makes its grand return with hundreds of events and activations. The festival will present a wide-ranging program across its 19 days, spanning public art, exhibitions, symposiums, workshops, studio tours and a food festival. The symposiums will kick off early with talks centred around public art on Sunday, October 29. From there, there will be a series of discussions on Canberra's role in the worlds of design and art on Friday, November 4, followed by 'Transforming Canberra' on Saturday, November 5, which will explore the future of the city with keynote appearances from Elizabeth Farrelly, author of Killing Sydney, and Canberra Museum and Gallery Senior Curator Virginia Rigney. If you're looking for an immersive hands-on experience at the festival, head to the open studios and workshops. A range of acclaimed Canberra-based artists ranging from glass blowers and cabinetmakers to ceramicists will be opening their personal studios to the public, demonstrating the processes that go into their artistry, and giving the public a sneak peek into what they're currently working on. As for the workshops, there will be both adult- and kid-focused classes, with sessions focusing on the likes of stitch meditation, spoon carving, zine-making and a special multi-day kids workshop based on designing the future of Canberra. A public art trail has popped up around the city. Wander through the City West until Sunday, November 20 and you'll discover an array of free outdoor artworks from six local craftspeople. These artworks range from huge pieces that have overtaken buildings to intimate works hidden among trees. Architecture fans, head out on one of the festival's architecture tours, or some of the most stunning and innovative houses in Canberra with the open homes program. Design Canberra has also come together with The Forage to add a bustling food festival and drink to the festivities. On Saturday, November 5, The Forage Food Festival will be bringing together 20 local vendors including Let's Do Yum Cha, Super Bao, Hungry Brown Cow Burgers, Canberra Distillery and a roving sangria cart from Skeehan Brothers Sangria Cart from 2–7pm in Civic Square. If all of this wasn't enough, there will be a heap more tours, talks, exhibitions and competitions popping up, as well as a festival hub shop selling works from artists involved and a limited-edition grapefruit Designer Gin made by Canberra Distillery. If you're from out of town and you're looking for an excuse to head to the nation's capital, luxury inner-city hotel A by Adina is offering 15-percent off all bookings during the festival. The stunning accommodation is located right among the action and boasts in-room cocktails from Maybe Sammy, two gyms and ARC — one of Canberra's best cafes — in its lobby.
UPDATE, APRIL 4: Disney has announced a new release date for Mulan, with the film now hitting cinemas on July 23, 2020. UPDATE, MARCH 13: Due to concerns around the coronavirus, Disney has announced that Mulan will no longer release on its initially scheduled date of Thursday, March 26, 2020. At present, a new release date has not been announced — we'll update you when one has been revealed. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. In Chinese history, the legend of Hua Mulan dates back to the sixth century. At the movies, the formidable female warrior first fought her way across the big screen in a 1927 silent film. The character has been no stranger to the page, stage or cinema over the past 92 years, but many folks know the tale thanks to Disney's 1998 animated musical. Now, as it has done with everything from Alice in Wonderland to The Jungle Book to Aladdin, the Mouse House is turning the story into its latest live-action remake. Once again, Mulan (played by Chinese American actor Liu Yifei) will evolve from dutiful daughter to kick-ass combatant, all to protect her family in a time of war. She's originally due to be married off to a husband chosen by a matchmaker, until the Emperor of China issues a decree stating that one man per household must serve the Imperial Army as it endeavours to fend off northern invaders. To save her ailing ex-soldier father from having to fight, Mulan disguises herself as a man, takes on the name Hua Jun and becomes an icon. Forget rousing tunes or a talking dragon voiced by Eddie Murphy. This time, the tale hits the screen without a singing and smart-talking sidekick, but with plenty of sword-swinging, arrow-flinging antics — as both its first teaser and just-dropped full trailer show. In New Zealand director Niki Caro's (Whale Rider, The Zookeeper's Wife) hands, this version of the story goes heavy on the action and empowerment, as shown in the spectacularly choreographed scenes seen so far. As well as Liu (whose resume includes The Forbidden Kingdom and The Assassins), the new Mulan features Jet Li as the Chinese Emperor, Gong Li as a witch, Donnie Yen as the protagonist's mentor, Jason Scott Lee as a villainous army leader, and Yoson An (The Meg, Mortal Engines) as her fellow fighter and love interest. The film hits cinemas next year — check out the first full trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK8FHdFluOQ After being delayed from its original release date of March 28, 2020, Mulan will now open in Australian cinemas on July 23, 2020. Image: © 2019 Disney Enterprises, Inc.
Gelato Messina is bringing gourmet to the freezer aisle this month. The gelato mega brand has teamed up with Peters Drumstick to go mainstream — bringing its beloved gelato to supermarkets and convenience stores all over the country. Sure, you've eaten many-a-Drumstick in your day, with the brand launching in Australia all the way back in 1963 — whether it was a childhood favourite or now your late-night go-to, it's a long-standing ice cream staple. But now with the Sydney-based gelateria on board, the humble Drumstick cone of your youth has been spruced up — the Messina way. The new cones feature four classic Messina flavour combos, which were initially created in its Rosebery HQ, before being mass produced in Peters' Drumstick factory. Flavours include mango and salted coconut, made with Aussie produce and topped with mango sauce and coconut flakes; vanilla bean and peanut praline, topped with dark chocolate; roasted hazelnut gelato, made using imported Italian nuts; and, of course, dulce de leche, topped with caramel sauce and chocolate-coated biscuits. All four flavours are available at Coles, Woolworths and independent groceries across Australia. Each comes in pop art-style boxes of four, priced at $9.99 per box. As far as convenience stores and petrol stations go, only the mango and salted coconut and roasted hazelnut flavours are up for grabs as single cones for $4.90 a pop. The collab is limited though, so if you want 'em, come and get 'em. Gelato Messina X Peters Drumstick collaboration ice creams are available at supermarkets, petrol stations and convenience stores for a limited time.
Broke fans of the Rockpool wagyu burger, things are about to get accessible. Neil Perry and the Rockpool Group are bringing a burger joint to the Sydney CBD. Snuggled into a top spot within World Square, Perry's brand new burgtastic venture will count dumpling heavyweights Din Tai Fung as neighbours. Fully licensed for 100 hungry punters with takeaway options on offer, Burger Project will open from lunchtime on Friday, October 31 — with the hope to expand to Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Dubai in the future. Perry's new endeavour follows in the footsteps of Justin North's Charlie & Co. chain launched four years ago, as well as two-hatter Warren Turnbull's closure of Assiette to open Surry Hills' Chur Burger. Hinged around the success of Perry's celebrated $24 wagyu beef burger, Burger Project will apparently see a similar design to Rockpool without the hefty price tag (Perry apparently hopes to keep things as close to $10 as he can with housemade next-best-thing patties). Architect Grant Cheyne is on board to bring Perry's new centrally-located open kitchen layout to fruition. Predictably, Perry's won't be any ol' dry-pattied 'wiches, these are Perry-style burgs. Perry told Good Food he wanted to make a "people’s burger... high quality, accessible and affordable,". Patties will be made onsite from 36-month old Gape Grim beef, feature Schulz bacon from the Barossa Valley and the ever-indulgent gruyere chese. Importantly, the famous Rockpool Zuni pickle won't be featuring on the burgers, but Perry has promised a shiny new pickle for the newbie. Burger Project will also give the Perry treatment to American classics like housemade chorizo dogs, chicken wings, milkshakes and sodas. They'll also be serving those unfalteringly genius side legends: shaker fries. Yep, they'll come with All The Seasonings including Szechuan pepper and a spot of chilli. "We’ve designed it so you’ll be able to dine in and relax, with music and a drink, or simply grab a burger and eat it on the go," Perry says. CBD burgers never looked so fancy and possibly affordable. Burger Project is at Shop 11.06, World Square, 644 George Street, Sydney. It's open daily, 11am – 10pm, from Friday, October 31. Via Good Food and Business Insider. Images by Rockpool Group and Andy Drewitt.
