Reading-list inspiration, sorted: even if you've devoured plenty of books by the authors on the just-announced 2025 Sydney Writers' Festival program, there's still much more to discover and explore. Whether you're keen to start leafing through pages now or plan to finish the fest with a stacked pile of new material by your bed, get excited — more than 200 events are on the lineup, featuring 40-plus international guests and over 100 Australian talents, and showcasing 34 authors among that group that are releasing new books this year. Sydney Writers' Festival's latest roster isn't just great news for Harbour City literary fans. When it runs from Monday, May 19–Tuesday, May 27, it'll also livestream some sessions around the country, so joining in isn't only about being there in-person in Sydney. Either way, there's something on the program for all reading tastes, fans of a wealth of genres, and attendees looking to hear from beloved scribes and discover their next favourites alike. Taking over Carriageworks, Sydney Town Hall, State Library of New South Wales and other venues around the city, SWF 2025 is also budget-friendly with more than 50 events costing nothing to attend — and 30 of those free sessions are at Carriageworks alone. What opens with Torres Strait Islander writer and activist Thomas Mayo, Yuwaalaraay writer and performer Nardi Simpson, plus poet Lemn Sissay and Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit writer Jeanette Winterson, all responding to the theme 'in this together'? This festival. What closes with Anna Funder examining writing in artificial intelligence-heavy times? This fest again. What includes 2024 Booker Prize-winner Samantha Harvey, Brooklyn author Colm Tóibín and Australian Big Little Lies wordsmith Liane Moriarty as well? Yes, this program. [caption id="attachment_994837" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sam Churchill[/caption] Harvey will chat about the International Space Station-set Orbital, while Tóibín has Long Island, the sequel to Brooklyn, to dig into. Also the creative force behind Nine Perfect Strangers and Apples Never Fall on the page, Moriarty will discuss everyday life stories becoming smash hits with David Nicholls, as well as careers and having a literary family with her sisters Jaclyn and Nicola. Plus, Winterson isn't just part of opening night, but will celebrate 40 years since her debut novel and also explore the impact of AI. Similarly on the SWF 2025 bill: Torrey Peters, the first openly trans woman nominated for the Women's Prize for Fiction; Ian Rankin speaking about the 25th instalment in the Inspector Rebus series; plus everyone from The Ministry of Time's Kaliane Bradley and The Safekeep's Yael van der Wouden through to Vanishing World's Sayaka Murata and After You'd Gone and Hamnet's Maggie O'Farrell. You've likely seen actor Harriet Walter in Succession, Silo and Ted Lasso — and This Is Going to Hurt, Killing Eve and Rocketman in the past few years as well — and now you can add this fest to that list, where she'll be unpacking Shakespeare's female characters. Other highlights span Entitlement's Rumaan Alam, Discriminations' AC Grayling on cancel culture, stepping into the world of espionage stories and getting a hankering for pastries — the latter with Flour and Stone's Nadine Ingram, Beatrix Bakes' Natalie Paull and Lune's Kate Reid. The return of the Great Debate is a starry event, featuring Annabel Crabb, David Marr, Nicholson, Matilda Boseley, Justine Rogers, Jennifer Wong and Yumi Stynes. And from there, other topics on the SWF lineup also include the situations in Gaza and Ukraine, sleep, First Nations storytelling, life in exile, queer culture, dwindling workers' rights, Robodebt and Miles Franklin. "Sydney Writers' Festival is a place for brilliant writing and urgent conversations. Under the theme "in this together", the 2025 festival highlights extraordinary novels, poetry and writing of all kinds — and thought-provoking discussions," said Artistic Director Ann Mossop, announcing the program. "Writing remains one of the most powerful tools to make sense of the world, to spark change and foster understanding. The 2025 festival presents great writers discussing a range of important topics: from the future of artificial intelligence to feminism's next battleground; from monumental global power shifts to First Nations truth-telling. The SWF program brings readers and writers together and challenges us to think, feel and imagine what lies ahead." [caption id="attachment_994839" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David A Land[/caption] [caption id="attachment_994840" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bungeishunju Ltd[/caption] [caption id="attachment_994841" align="alignnone" width="1920"] uber photography[/caption] [caption id="attachment_994842" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sim Canetty-Clarke[/caption] [caption id="attachment_994843" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Reynaldo Rivera[/caption] [caption id="attachment_994844" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Monica Pronk[/caption] Sydney Writers' Festival 2025 runs at various venues across Sydney, and streams online, from Monday, May 19–Tuesday, May 27. Tickets go on sale at 10am on Saturday, March 15 via the festival's website. Sydney Writers' Festival images: Jacquie Manning.
Nerding out over denim is something only connoisseurs of wine or coffee could really understand. Region, preparation, final style; jeans aren't just flaps of fabric you squeeze into every day. But we don't all mull so deeply over selvedge, chain stitching and five point pockets — leaving that instead to a man called Denham. Originally founded six years ago in Holland by a jeanmaker called Jason Denham (his actual name, what even), fashion label Denham has expanded to the UK, further into Europe, the US and now Australia (despite only having a core team of half a dozen creatives). Having opened just a few months ago on George Street in collaboration with Hilton Seskin (owner of Topshop and Glue), Denham is carving a niche for serious and not-so-invested denim fans in Australia. The country's only Denham store has found a snuggly Sydney home in The Rocks, boasting a sweet, sweet heritage listing. Denham's new space wears floorboards from 1844, square-paned windows and bare piping to hold up the wares. They're also burning the same incense you'll find in the Amsterdam store, slightly like Subway's olfactory technique but significantly more classy. Denham are masters of The Little Things — more points in your pockets so your hand fits better; treating jeans as if they were already one, two, three years old; making waistlines appear lower than they actually are so you stay classy without nerding out. Using high quality Japanese denim, getting fabric effects through Italian laundries and making hardcore American-style work jeans, Denham seem to take the best bits out of every denim-crazy country and blend it with their own Dutch savvy. Denham even make their own sake — one of Denham's head dudes is a seventh generation sake-maker. While you can't buy it in-store in Sydney yet (dastardly licensing laws), we can keep fingers crossed that our city's love for the stuff will find a way to will it over. But while there's a wide range of jackets, shirts, trenchcoats and hats to pair with your brand new slacks, with a name like Denham it's all about getting psyched on a new set of slacks. Denham denim specialist Kyl Jones knows his denim. Having worked for years for Glue (through which Denham was first distributed), Jones found his preferred Denham poison and pushed it all the way to its own Rocks store. Jones took us through a fitting with Denham's stretchy monkeymakers, quashing any former fears with jeans fittings. Going for a struggle-street-worthy skinny jeans fitting might dredge up the same kind of horrifying shivers as bikini shopping — tiny, tiny garments that expose every bulge. But it doesn't have to be this way — the Denham team are genuinely and refreshingly honest about what looks good on you, how it should fit and actually give you a bucketload of geeky denim tips you'll pass on to patient buds later. Seriously, ask questions. Shorties like myself can get their long denim legs trimmed and altered in store; Denham rock two vintage sewing machines that took a specialist to seek out (and boy, are they expensive to fix). One rocks a hardcore chain stitch (the stitch super denim fans look for), the other a thinner stitch better suited to stretch jeans. While there's more of a male range instore, lady denim enthusiasts need not go wanting — anything you don't see on the shelves can be easily snavelled online. So if you're one to psych out over selvedge or you're just sick of looking super bulgy in Kmart skinnies, get your jeanless butts to Denham.
The nostalgia value of Astro Boy alone is sure to see crowds beating a path to the cinema. The antics of this pint sized action hero have been delighting comic and cartoon fans since the 1950s. And if you ever wondered where the anime obsession with gigantic eyes comes from, you can look directly into Astro Boy’s peepers. In fact, in a bit of a case of life imitating art, Astro Boy’s creator, Osamu Tezuka is considered the ‘father of anime,’ revered much as Walt Disney is by the west. And so it seems fitting that an American/Japanese collaboration is responsible for bringing Astro Boy to the big screen. Writer/director David Bowers (Flushed Away) has stepped into the gigantic red boots, bringing along an impressive voice cast that includes Nicolas Cage, Bill Nighy, Donald Sutherland, Kristen Bell and Freddie Highmore as the eponymous hero. Charting science-wizz kid Toby Tenma’s transformation into Astro Boy and the subsequent rejection of a grieving father, Dr. Tenma (Cage, with his best hair yet), the film very much follows in the footsteps of the hero’s journey. However the trappings of convention, combined with some really cheesy dialogue and lacklustre action make for a rather uninspired movie. Perhaps we’ve been spoilt by Pixar, and other innovative, intelligent animation that effortlessly appeals to children and adults alike. Unfortunately, Astro Boy pales in comparison. Laughs are pushed a beat too far, while the jokes themselves are quite childish (a machine gun coming out of Astro Boy’s bum-cheeks being just one example). There is certainly nothing wrong with a fun kids’ film for the little ‘uns to enjoy â€" on that account Astro Boy may well deliver â€" but for adult audiences wanting to reconnect with the cartoon hero from their youth, this latest version just won’t pack enough of a punch. https://youtube.com/watch?v=lUVlfuePF0Y
We have grown too accustomed to seeing empty quiet streets post lockdown. So, we think it's time to rediscover our vibrant local communities and to show our support in person and not just through a screen. The good news is, Strathfield Council is working to breathe some life back into the streets of Homebush with an epic festival that'll get you off the couch and onto the street. Street Festival 2140 is kicking off on Friday, March 11 and will run every Friday and Saturday for five weeks. This means for ten days and nights the streets of Homebush will be jam-packed with fun events and great vibes. Street Festival 2140 will be happening on Henley Road in Homebush West for the first two weeks (March 11-19) before moving to Rochester Street in Homebush Village for the next three. Expect fun-filled street parties featuring live music from the local artists such as Brothers of Oz, The Beatnix, Cassidy Rae and more. There'll also be workshops in henna tattooing, face painting and origami, plus roving performers, amusement rides, market stalls and drone light shows. It is guaranteed fun for all ages with events to impress a date, enjoy with friends, or with the little ones. Street Festival 2140 is proudly funded by the NSW Government's The Festival of Place. For more information, visit the website.
We've teamed up with Motel Molly to offer an exclusive rate via Concrete Playground Trips. Sign up for free to get 10–20% off room rates. Book now from AUD $313. Set your OOO and escape to Motel Molly in Mollymook, where you can spend your days soaking in the sunshine by the pool, on the beach or at a golf course between excursions to nearby wineries and top-notch restaurants. Here are a few of the features that make it worthy addition to our collection of Stays of the Week. The converted motel brings retro coastal vibes with Moroccan-inspired decor, Mediterranean tiling and pastel pops of colour. Choose from seven different room types — the Oceanside Garden Suite has an outdoor patio and is only a two-minute walk to Mollymook Beach, while the Spa Suite boasts an in-room sunken bath. There are also one, two and three-bedroom apartments with a kitchenette available for bigger groups and families. Each room comes with luxe Le Labo toiletries, a bluetooth speaker and smart TV with complimentary Netflix access. There are surfboards and bicycles available to rent, as well as free onsite parking. After a dip in the pool, you're welcome to cook up a feast on the communal barbecue and enjoy a meal al fresco in the outdoor cabana. If you can tear yourself away from the facilities, you'll find that the boutique hotel is conveniently located only a block from Mollymook Beach and within walking distance to Mollymook Golf Club. Local towns Ulladulla, Narrawallee and Milton are a five-minute drive away, while epicurean experiences at the likes of Rick Stein at Bannisters, Hayden's Pies, GWYLO or Cupitt's Estate are also close by. If you're after a boutique stay that offers charm, style and carefully considered detail, get booking now.
Palace Cinemas is known for delivering a boutique film-going experience, as well as screening independent films that you won't find in the big-name movie theatres. The offering spans new releases and arthouse cinema (both local and international), along with exclusive events and film festivals. The Central Park location is one of the newest Palace Cinema venues and features a light-filled foyer that overlooks the cityscape. Pre-or-post film, patrons can pull up a seat at the prosecco bar or beer hall and enjoy floor-to-ceiling views of Chippendale Green with a drink in hand — all while lounging on cushy chairs and plush couches.
French composer Jean-Philippe Rameau was one of the most enduring musicians of his time, but also one of the most enigmatic, with little known of his life. While his style was initially considered an affront to the establishment, his unorthodox approach to harmony became increasingly influential and eventually de rigueur in the French court. Intriguingly, while his music was pretty and ornate, he was known as a headstrong, volatile character. Rameau's music lends itself particularly well to dance and forms the starting point for the new work Project Rameau, the first collaboration between the Australian Chamber Orchestra and Sydney Dance Company. The latter is headed by Spanish born Rafael Bonachela, who will provide choreography for the 17 dancers, while the 22-piece chamber orchestra, led by the ever-prolific Richard Tognetti, will bring to life selections from Rameau's operas, as well as interludes from Bach and Vivaldi. Image by Justin Ridler.
Film-makers are still struggling to make a really good version of Romeo and Juliet. In the meantime, people like the Sydney Shakespeare Festival keep putting it on in real life. Lots of Shakespeare's plays were originally performed under an open sky — as many people already know if they study his work, or watch Doctor Who. It's a great way to get to know the plays. The comedy and drama thrive on the extra informality. And while indoor shows are more common these days, outdoor performances remain pretty popular both here and overseas. The Sydney Shakespeare Festival is a more recent arrival than its sage contemporary Shakespeare by the Sea, staging its plays on the foreshore at Glebe's Bicentennial Park. The 2011 Festival alternates between A Midsummer Night's Dream and Romeo and Juliet, mixing both cast and genders between the plays as much as Romeo and Juliet mixes comedy with its tragedy, or A Midsummer Night's Dream takes in fairies with its classical myth. So if you're searching for a most rare vision, get over to Glebe and report how their Dream was. Performances run Thursday to Sunday.
Playing brothers Lee and Austin in Sam Shepard's True West on Broadway some years back, actors Philip Seymour Hoffman and John C. Reilly were known to switch parts when the mood struck. This factoid is cool on its own, but once you've seen True West, you'll know it's deep, too. The brothers are identified by their differences, but each contains the other within him. House-sitting for his mother is Austin (Brendan Cowell), the good son who can be trusted to water the plants and not steal the neighbours' televisions. He's on the verge of his Hollywood break, and as he works on his screenplay by candlelight, the lifting glow and flicker of movement reveal another figure in the room: Lee (Wayne Blair), the other brother, scrappy, itinerant and threatening. They started out middle class but ended up estranged in distant American realities. Austin is meeting with a producer tomorrow, and though he'd prefer Lee out of the house, Lee has his own story to peddle — a Western. It's California, and the play takes place in the too-bright day and cloaking night. Plain domesticity clashes with neon scene changes. It's a setting of contrasts and codependence that in every way reiterates you can't have light without the dark. The first half of the play is nice, an exercise in tensions waxing and waning with little propulsion and a rolling meditation on why we treat family the way we do, even when they disappoint or frighten us and even when we abuse or indulge them. But the play really saddles up around the 45-minute mark, when Shepard engineers an explosive and poetic reversal of roles that sees the men explore their latent undersides, admit mutual admiration, co-write a Western, drink and trash the joint. Austin's typewriter bears the brunt of their frustrations. Staging True West must have been a bit of a gamble for the Sydney Theatre Company; the play relies on US narrative and popular culture in a way that means it can't be transplanted to a different time or place (with different accents), and even with these most committed of actors, the Americanisms at times seem jarring. Still, the production soars above those obstacles. Hoffman is directing this outing, which is a thrill, and he has clearly broken and bonded his cast. Blair and Cowell are amazing to watch here, each unbearably intense, in his own way.
If you thought seafood was best suited to sultry summer days, this seafood restaurant might change your mind. The Aussie-born chain Kickin' Inn already has eight NSW restaurants under its belt including Petersham, Canley Heights, Campbelltown, Zetland, Emerton, Bankstown and Kirrawee. Kickin' Inn has taken over Sydney and promises to cure those lingering winter blues with a signature offering of seafood tossed through punchy house-made 'Kajun' sauces. For the uninitiated, Kickin' Inn offers an all-in, bibs-and-gloves experience, where diners do away with cutlery and get their hands messy with bags full of prawns, mud crab, pipis and shellfish using only the tools that Jesus gave you. The Cajun-inspired house sauces — here, dubbed 'Kajun' — are more than mere support acts, with the venue boasting five flavour-charged secret recipes. If feasting is on the agenda, you'll find an abundance of snacks to kick things off including battered squid tentacles, jalapeno cheese bites ($19), freshly-shucked Sydney rock oysters ($18-28) and wings ($29). After that, you've got some big decisions to make. Choose your main event from a slew of ocean-fresh goodies including whole crayfish ($48), pounds of peeled prawns ($29-39), a pile of baby octopus ($29), blue swimmer pieces ($32), or a mess of mussels and pipis ($94). Pick a matching sauce, whack in some additions like corn or chorizo, and dial up the heat level as high as you dare — keeping in mind the 'inferno' option is only halfway up the scale. Meanwhile, a separate lunch menu features more solo-friendly feeds from a prawn spaghetti ($24) to a mini mixed bag of seafood served with rice ($24).
Named after the notorious Rocks Push, a ruffian gang during turn-of-the-century Sydney, The Push (formerly the Russell Hotel) is a handsome little place. Push open the heavy door that evokes that of a speakeasy — the weightiness representing the significance of the spot, the thud of the door behind sealing you in from the outside world — and step into this Art Deco incarnation of the gang of yore. Think slick styling, black timber panelling, leather banquettes and rose gold finishes. Bootleggers (read: slightly cranky bartenders) aside, there is nary a bandit in sight; most of the patrons are merely shaking off the shackles of the working day. The drinks list features local and NZ wines, plus craft and boutique beers, but you shouldn't stop there. A place this attractive calls for cocktails, and The Push offers up a full list of cocktails starring the Lady Macquarie ($18) with gin, creme de cassis, lemon, sugar and egg white and the Bushrangers Mule ($17) with vodka, cloudy apple cider, lime, ginger beer, apple and cinnamon, plus cocktails of the month at a fair $15. The bar suits trysts of all types, with its soft lighting, mellow playlist and cuddly corners encouraging weary urbanites to linger over drinks. The counter snacks serve this purpose with spicy barbecue chicken wings ($10) and squid with Chinese five spice ($16). For the hungrier among us, expect a run-of-the-mill bistro menu: burgers, fish and chips and schnitzels are all duly represented. The rump steak ($26.90) is fine and unfussy and the shepherd's pie ($23) is a comfort-food number, but The Push comes into its larrikin-like own as a cocktail bar. Sharp, dark and somewhat rascally, this bar is a pleasing addition to the oft-lacking George Street strip. A night there brings to mind the Henry Lawson poem, which immortalised The Push's namesake gang with the words, "How I longed to share the dangers and the pleasures of the Push!"
You can never have too many John Wick movies. After the first film in the Keanu Reeves (Sonic the Hedgehog 3)-starring action franchise arrived in 2014, more thankfully followed — and if you're a fan, two, three and four flicks about the dog-loving assassin have never been enough. Reeves returns to the role in upcoming spinoff Ballerina, but that's not the only time you'll see him in the series again in the future. Yeah, we're thinking he's back: a fifth John Wick film is now officially locked in. Film studio Lionsgate has announced both another entry in the main saga and Reeves' comeback as its titular figure — something that initially floated way back before John Wick: Chapter 4, but wasn't actually guaranteed after the way that feature wrapped up. There's no word on when the fifth movie will arrive now, who else will be in it or what the storyline will follow as yet, but there doesn't need to be: Reeves as John Wick again is plenty to look forward to. That said, Reeves isn't the only returnee for John Wick 5, with his former stuntman-turned-director Chad Stahelski joining him. All five films not only boast its inimitable star, then, but Stahelski behind the lens. "It's so important to get this story right and give John's story the proper next step. It's exciting to take the first step on that road," said producers Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee (Monkey Man) about the fifth entry, as per Variety, with both also involved in the John Wick realm since its beginning. Led by Ana de Armas (Ghosted), From the World of John Wick: Ballerina has a date with cinemas Down Under on Thursday, June 5, 2025. This franchise has already earned a TV series, too, courtesy of The Continental: From the World of John Wick — and more related tales are also on the way. Newly announced: an animated John Wick prequel film. Already revealed back in 2024: a Donnie Yen (The Prosecutor)-starring chapter picture about Caine, who first popped up in John Wick: Chapter 4. That movie now has a director, and it's none other than Hong Kong actor and filmmaker Yen himself. There's obviously no trailer for John Wick 5 yet, but check out the trailers for past John Wick films, plus the upcoming Ballerina, below: John Wick 5 doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you with more details when they're announced. Via Variety.
The CBD's newest cafe combines three worthy elements: all-day eating, an ex-Mecca chef and serious support for charity. Now open at No. 1 Martin Place, Portal is an expansive, light-filled space from The Pure Collective, which is also behind Folonomo in Surry Hills. Whether you're there for a mid-morning coffee or a long lunch, you can count on every dollar of profit going to charity. Portal has taken over No. 1's mezzanine level, with architect Adriano Pupilli's new design featuing an undulating timber ceiling, modern art and sleek splashes of brass and black. In the kitchen you'll find Michal Siudeja (ex-Mecca, The Farmed Table). He's been busy sourcing seasonal, local ingredients for Portal's menu, including honey from a rooftop beehive in Surry Hills. Kick off your day with a brekkie roll: maple bacon, fried egg, manchego and smoked tomato chutney on a house-made milk bun ($11), or coconut sago pudding with caramelised pineapple and kaffir lime ($9). Come lunch, Siudeja puts together hearty sandwiches ($10) with whizzbang fillings, like free-range chicken with miso mayo and fried eggplant, bocconcini and romesco. There are bowls ($11), too, based on hero proteins such as braised lamb, confit salmon and soy-sesame tofu. "I want to keep the menu as fresh as possible. There are lots of healthy grains, poached proteins and raw vegetables from Sydney markets. If we don't make it from scratch, we'll buy from local producers who share the same values," says Siudeja. On top of donating all profits to charity — with diners able to pick between three different non-profits — Portal provides hospitality training to people of refugee backgrounds, who've settled in Australia but are waiting for work visas. "These are people in need who have arrived legally and yet have to survive on goodwill until they're able to work. It's a distressing time to say the least," says Nicolas Degryse, co-founder, The Pure Collective."We offer hospitality training as an option, so they can learn skills and hopefully find jobs as soon as they're able to do so." Find Portal at Mezzanine Level, 1 Martin Place, Sydney, open 8am–4pm from Monday–Friday.
UPDATE, June 14, 2020: Devs is also now streaming in full on new Foxtel-run platform Binge. This article has been updated to reflect that change. If you're a fan of watching smart, rewarding, deep-thinking science fiction, then you're probably a fan of Alex Garland's. Originally an author, he initially came to fame as the writer of 90s bestseller The Beach, before moving into screenwriting with the script for 28 Days Later. More screenplays followed, including Sunshine, Never Let Me Go and Dredd — but it was his 2014 directorial debut Ex Machina that showed the extent of his filmmaking prowess. Annihilation proved a highly worthy addition to his resume in 2018, too, even after it was shuffled onto Netflix rather than screening in cinemas in much of the world. Given his track record so far, any new project by Garland is cause for excitement. This year, direct your enthusiasm towards new series Devs. The writer/director has made the leap to television with a cast led by Nick Offerman, Ex Machina's Sonoya Mizuno, Love's Karl Glusman, American Horror Story's Alison Pill and Bad Times at the El Royale's Cailee Spaeny — and, as currently streaming on Foxtel Now and Binge in Australia, it's a trippy ride into cerebral sci-fi territory. The eight-part show also radiates unease from its very first moments, all while sporting both a mood and a futuristic look that prove simultaneously unsettlingly and alluring. The setting: Amaya, a US technology company that's massive in size yet secretive in its focus, especially when it comes to its big quantum computing project. When Sergei (Glusman) is promoted to its coveted, extra clandestine Devs division, his girlfriend and fellow Amaya employee Lily (Mizuno) is thrilled for him. But when Sergei doesn't come home from his first day, Lily starts looking for answers — including from the company's guru-like leader Forest (a long-haired, very un-Ron Swanson-like Offerman). As intriguing as it is involving — as both Ex Machina and Annihilation were, too — Devs is the kind of series with twists and turns that are best discovered by watching; however as each second passes by, the stranger and more sinister it all appears. Expect conspiracies, tech thrills and big questions, in a series that does what all the very best sci-fi stories do: tackle big existential questions and intimate everyday emotions in tandem, all while asking 'what if?'. Also a highlight is Devs' spectacular set design and overall look, with Garland bringing striking, dark yet vivid images to his first small-screen project. Giant woodland areas, floating cube-like workspaces glimmering in golden hues, shimmering fields, a towering statue of a small child — they're all part of the show's appearance, and its mysteries. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8klax373ds The first season of Devs is available to stream on Foxtel Now and Binge. Images: FX Networks.
If you're wistfully dreaming of a Parisian jaunt but the purse strings aren't allowing it, there is a solution a little closer to home. Jardin St James not only boasts a delightful menu of French fare but also has one of the best locales in the city — the café set up in the courtyard and crypt of the St James' Anglican church on King Street back in 2015. Sydney Restaurant Group (Aqua Dining, LuMi, Ripples) is behind this venture and ensures the menu extends well beyond the traditional religious diet of fish and loaves of bread (although baguettes make an appearance, of course). Breakfast diners can enjoy all manner of pastry-laden delights. The Seine won't seem so far away when you're feasting on a pain au chocolat and Little Marionette coffee. Meanwhile, lunch features more French classics — Niçoise salad, beef tartare and several varieties of the aforementioned baguettes.
Lodged just outside Bathurst and surrounded by the picturesque expanse of a 170-acre working family farm and vineyard lies Rest at Boxgrove. Only about two and a half hours west of Sydney, this retreat offers a blend of rural serenity and modern luxury. Established in 1971 by local Angus cattle farmers Thellie and Barry Renshaw, Boxgrove has evolved under the care of their granddaughters Kayla and Melissa and now Kayla's husband, Ben. The property has had years of success as an award-winning wedding venue, 'The Barn', and now is delving into eco-conscious luxury accommodation. Boxgrove's five cabin studios are designed with sustainability and comfort in mind. The studios harness natural ventilation and sunlight and are powered by solar panels, and use collected rainwater. Outside, each studio has its own covered parking space, firepit (and firewood), grass area and covered wooden deck. Inside, you'll find organic bedding, a bathroom with a bath and shower, energy-efficient appliances, a turntable with records and contemporary furnishings in warm natural earth colours. You won't find a cooker, but outside on the covered deck is a luxe barbecue perfect for cooking breakfast bacon or grilling some steaks. And in case you get anxious when cut off from the world, there's a TV and wifi so you can stay connected. Guests at Rest receive a welcome basket featuring produce from local farmers and producers and homegrown on the estate itself. The basket includes freshly laid eggs, veggies, baked bread, sweet treats and even some vino from a nearby winery and a small bottle of gin from the Bathurst Distillery—the content of welcome baskets is subject to change. There's plenty to explore while on your stay. Each morning, you will wake up and be greeted with breathtaking views of the surrounding pastoral countryside — be sure to head out to greet your neighbours, the curious cows. Guests are free to wander through the on-site vineyard — the property is set to produce its first vintage in 2026 — and explore the other animals on the land. Each cabin also features two side-by-side outdoor baths with heated water, so you can take a dip with your beau and a glass of wine. This is perfect for watching the sunset behind the hills. Afterwards, make your way to your cabin's firepit to toast some marshmallows as you listen to the cows moo and watch the stars twinkle.
While gifts are a splendid way to spoil mum this Mother's Day, the most meaningful gesture is clearing your calendar and spending quality time together. Throw in a share-worthy feast and a glass (or bottle) of bubbles, and you have yourself a memorable Mother's Day. Whether you're celebrating your mum, you're a new mum yourself, or you're looking for a way to treat the incredible women in your life this May, we've teamed up with G.H. Mumm, Perrier-Jouët, and Mumm Terroirs to round up eight of the best champagne-fuelled specials in Sydney. Cabana Bar There's few better ways to celebrate Mother's Day together than with a crisp champagne before a long lunch—and Cabana Bar in Sydney's CBD is an ideal place to raise a glass. For just $89 per person, you can kick things off with a glass of Mumm champagne before leaning into a specially-curated tropical-inspired Mother's Day menu teamed with two hours of bottomless margaritas and seasonal cocktails, on the city's largest outdoor terrace. Plus, there's a photobooth so you can take home an adorable keepsake you'll both cherish. Book your outdoor terrace table here. Cafe Sydney If your mum relishes the finer things in life, Cafe Sydney is offering up the ultimate indulgence every Sunday throughout autumn: champagne and caviar. For just $55, spoil your mum with unobstructed views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and a glass of 2016 Perrier-Jouët 'Belle Epoque' champagne paired with a divine tart of Black River Caviar - Tradition Oscietra, served simply with créme fraiche. Secure your table here. China Doll Found on Woolloomooloo's Finger Wharf, China Doll is one of Sydney's most distinctive fine dining spots. This Mother's Day, for one day only, treat your mum to a glass of Mumm Grand Cordon Rose for $30 before tucking into an award-winning modern Asian a la carte menu featuring its signature bold dishes like pork belly with chilli caramel and Nam Pla Phrik, and tea-smoked duck with tamarind and plum. Secure your table here. Darling Pavilion If you're looking for a vibrant, central lunch location with a backdrop of Tumbalong Park and sparkly Darling Harbour views, Sydney's Darling Pavilion in the heart of Darling Quarter is where you'll find it. Here, you can pamper your mum with a delicious day out in Sydney starting with Darling Pavilion's special Mediterranean Mother's Day set menu, which includes a free glass of Mumm for all mothers, all for just $55 per person. Secure a booking here. Four Hundred If your mum is a little on the mischievous side and loves to let her hair down, then Four Hundred in North Sydney is the perfect spot to kick back and spend some quality time together over a few bevvies. For one day only this Mother's Day, and for just $89 per person, you can treat mum to a glass of Mumm champagne on arrival before channelling that energy and diving into a Mexican-inspired feast, featuring two hours of bottomless margaritas and tequila spritzes. Secure a booking here. Henry G's Wine Parlour Step away from your standard lunch this Mother's Day and surprise your mum with an intimate wine tasting experience at Manly's boutique bar, Henry G's Wine Parlour. Savour a glass of Mumm champagne on arrival before soaking in a 90-minute sommelier-guided tasting featuring four expressions of Mumm champagne: Cordon Rouge, Central Otago, Tasmania and Marlborough—all for just $50 per person. There are two ticketed sessions, running at 2pm and 5pm, but last year's event sold out fast, so you'd better book asap. Secure a booking here. Nola For a taste of opulence this Mother's Day weekend, treat your mum to some champagne teamed with some of Sydney's freshest oysters at New Orleans-inspired smokehouse Nola, in Barangaroo. With a Barangaroo backdrop, you can devour $2 oysters (max six per person) for every glass of Perrier-Jouët champagne sold — or enjoy a complimentary dozen oysters for every bottle of Perrier-Jouët champagne sold. There's also a special extended cocktail menu featuring a special French 75 Perrier-Jouët champagne, plus you can score a complimentary glass of Perrier-Jouët champagne when you order the Big Easy set menu. Secure a booking here. Robin Hood Eastside this Mother's Day? Lorraine's Bistro, located on level one of The Robin Hood in Waverley, is an ambient French-inspired restaurant that's perfect for a laidback family affair on the coastal side of town. Grab a booth or table in the sun-drenched bistro and enjoy a free glass of Mumm champagne when you order the set Mother's Day menu, available on the big day only. Secure a booking here. Mother's Day is just around the corner. Be sure to indulge your mum this May by treating her to a glass of G.H. Mumm, Perrier-Jouët, and Mumm Terroirs at any of these Sydney restaurants and bars. By Elise Cullen.
He wrote, directed, financed and starred in the best worst movie ever made, showed up as himself in the enormously funny making-of dramatisation of his biggest flick, and re-teamed with his best-known co-star for a two-part comedy-thriller based on their friendship — and now, like he was always destined to, Tommy Wiseau is saying "oh hi" to space. Once again working with The Room and Best F(r)iends' Greg Sestero, the distinctive Wiseau has loaned his voice to animated sci-fi series SpaceWorld, with the pair playing rival intergalactic bounty hunters. If you're naturally thinking the obvious, the company behind it has already made the blatant comparison, with Octopie calling the show "what happens when you merge The Room with Star Wars". In SpaceWorld's nearly six-minute pilot episode, Wiseau's TX battles it out with Sestero's Drogol, who — continuing a trend across their work together — happens to be his lifelong nemesis. Created by Brock LaBorde, the debut clip is suitably bizarre, even with its clear self-referential tone. As Wiseau's career just keeps proving, that's just what happens when he pops up. LaBorde is no stranger to Wiseau's orbit, having produced, co-written and starred in the 2011–12 series The Tommy Wi-Show — where Wiseau was abducted by aliens, shuttled off to a base on the mood and made to play video games. In addition to his better-known work, including his involvement with The Disaster Artist, Wiseau is no stranger to on-screen weirdness either. If you've ever come across his 2014–16 sitcom The Neighbours, which is set in an apartment building and combines the exact storylines you'd expect with his inimitable style, then you'll know exactly how odd his work can get. Whether SpaceWorld will progress beyond its pilot is yet to be seen, although it's definitely not the worst thing on Wiseau's resume. Check out the first episode below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAv4ceFJH3U SpaceWorld is distributed by Octopie, and is currently available via its YouTube channel.
Feeling lucky, punk? Concrete Playground and Sydney Contemporary are giving you the chance to win a hand-signed, original Perspective Scarf by renowned contemporary Chinese artist and political activist Ai Weiwei. Produced in conjunction with Melbourne-based purveyor of museum shop delights Third Drawer Down, the square, silk scarf features an image taken from Ai's Study of Perspective series. The works feature the artist's hand flipping the bird to major international landmarks and artworks (Tiananmen Square, the Mona Lisa, and the White House, to name a few). Ai Weiwei has received international acclaim for his artworks across a wide range of media. His pieces reside in many of the world's best museums and galleries. A very outspoken critic of the Chinese Government, he was secretly detained by police at Beijing Capital International Airport as he went to board a flight to Hong Kong in 2011. The artist was held for 81 days without any official justification being given before being released on bail for fabricated charges of tax evasion. His passport was never returned and he remains unable to leave China. In addition to this painfully cool item, we're also throwing in two VIP, all-access passes to the Sydney Contemporary Art Fair. Opening on the evening of the 19 September, the inaugural edition of Sydney's international art fair will then run from 20 to 22 September at Carriageworks. One lucky reader will win the signed scarf and two VIP Sydney Contemporary Art Fair passes. To be in the running, make sure you're subscribed to the Concrete Playground newsletter and then email hello@concreteplayground.com.au with your name and address.
Food is usually the gift you give when you can't think of anything else. Come on, you know it's true. That said, anyone getting their dad Gelato Messina's latest special Father's Day creation can't be accused of that. If you're giving someone something that you're fighting the urge to just order for yourself, you're definitely giving a thoughtful present — and who doesn't want to tuck into three of the gelato chain's favourite desserts in chocolate bar form? Chocolates are Messina's Mother's Day go-to — and this year they're on the brand's Father's Day menu as well. The new three-pack marks the first time that Messina has ever made chocolate bars and blocks itself, however, with the team at its Rosebery headquarters doing the honours. Each kit actually contains nine items, but of three different types of chocolate. Loved Messina's recent cone-ception cookie pies? It has turned the concept into mini 105-gram chocolate bars, which combine sable biscuit, waffle cone spread and cone crunch, then cover it all in caramelised white chocolate. Your dad will get four of those, plus four mini milk chocolate Messinatella hazelnut bars featuring sable biscuit, Messinatella choc hazelnut spread and roasted hazelnuts. And, taking the final spot in the kit is the neapolitan chocolate block — and yes, it's made with milk chocolate, white chocolate that features Heilala vanilla, and strawberry chocolate infused with freeze dried strawberries. This gift will set you back $45, and it's being shipped, which is handy for folks in lockdown. Also, delivery won't cost you extra. Like most Messina specials, it's going on sale on a Monday morning — at 9am on Monday, August 23, to be exact. Then, it'll get brought to your door, with orders shipping on or before Friday, August 27. Gelato Messina's Father's Day chocolate three-packs will be available to order from 9am, Monday, August 23.
When a music festival takes place in a winery, it already has two of the three fest essentials taken care of before it even announces its lineup: an ace location and booze. But, that doesn't mean that Grapevine Gathering slouches on talent. The acts hitting its stages around the country are always chosen to impress, and the just-dropped 2023 roster of folks is no different. Leading the charge: Spacey Jane, King Stingray and Vanessa Amorosi, with the latter meaning that 'Absolutely Everybody' will be stuck in your head for weeks afterwards. The Wombats and Hayden James are also on the bill, both doing Australian-exclusive shows at the wine-fuelled festival. [caption id="attachment_905845" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sam Hendel[/caption] Rounding out the list: Cannons, The Rions, Teenage Joans and Bella Amor, plus podcast duo Lucy and Nikki on hosting duties. Grapevine Gathering's lineup announcement comes after the fest locked in its 2023 dates and venues earlier in June, with a five-state tour with stops in Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Victoria and New South Wales on the way this October. Its destinations: Sirromet Wines at Mount Cotton, Serafino Wines in McLaren Vale, Sandalford Wines in Swan Valley, Rochford Estate in the Yarra Valley and Hope Estate in the Hunter Valley, respectively. Victoria will play host to the first gig of the tour on Saturday, October 7, with Grapevine Gathering then pinballing up to Queensland on Sunday, October 8. The next weekend, it heads west on Saturday, October 14, then does NSW on Saturday, October 21 and SA on Sunday, October 22. Naturally, sipping wine is a huge part of the attraction. As always, attendees will have access to a heap of vino given the fest's locations, as well as an array of food options. GRAPEVINE GATHERING 2023 DATES: Saturday, October 7 — Rochford Estate, Victoria Sunday, October 8 — Sirromet Wines, Queensland Saturday, October 14 — Sandalford Wines, Western Australia Saturday, October 21 — Hope Estate, New South Wales Sunday, October 22 — Serafino Wines, South Australia GRAPEVINE GATHERING 2023 LINEUP: Spacey Jane The Wombats Hayden James King Stingray Vanessa Amorosi Cannons The Rions Teenage Joans Bella Amor Hosted by Lucy and Nikki Grapevine Gathering will tour Australia in October 2023. Pre-sale registrations are open now via the festival's website, for tickets from 6pm AEST on Wednesday, June 21 — and all remaining tickets will go on sale at 6pm on Thursday, June 22. Top images: Jordan Munns / Jess Gleeson.
If you're someone who habitually forgets to grab your dear ol' dad a Father's Day gift until the last minute, now is your chance to get him something really special — especially if he loves a dram and his motorsports. Glenfiddich has partnered with the Aston Martin Formula One Team to release a limited-edition 16-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (ABV 43%). Housed in an Aston Martin Racing Green presentation box, this will really pop on dad's bar shelf (when he isn't pouring himself a glass, that is). When it comes to whisky, few names are as renowned as Glenfiddich. Founded in 1887, this Scottish distillery has long been a pioneer in the production of single malt Scotch whisky and is one of the few remaining family-owned distilleries. Continuing to embrace the innovative practices of its founder, William Grant, it's responsible for some of the best-selling whiskies on the market, including the most awarded single malt Scotch whisky in the world. Its commitment to such a high level of craftsmanship is exactly why Glenfiddich has partnered with Aston Martin to release this limited-edition bottle. Announced at the Las Vegas Grand Prix 2024, this 16-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky celebrates the precision and mastery of these two iconic brands. "At Glenfiddich, we're committed to creating exceptional whiskies that honour tradition while embracing innovation," commented Brian Kinsman, Glenfiddich's Malt Master. "The Glenfiddich 16-Year-Old is a true testament to this philosophy. It combines craftsmanship and precision in a whisky that invites exploration and discovery, much like the journey of our partnership with Aston Martin Formula One Team. It's a celebration of blending tradition with the thrill of innovation." So what exactly makes this single malt Scotch whisky special? Like all of Glenfiddich's spirits, the devil is in the details. This 16-year-old whisky is aged in a carefully selected marriage of American oak wine casks, new American barrels and second-fill bourbon casks. Through the distillery's meticulous blending process, the result is a bottle that features distinct notes of maple syrup, caramelised ginger and, subtly, toasted oak. As it goes down, it has a silky and syrupy palate that tastes like fresh fruit salad and Chantilly cream. All of this culminates in a finish that's smooth and bold, with a sustained sweetness. What wouldn't Dad love about that? If he considers himself a bit of a whisky connoisseur or has an eye for the more luxurious things in life, this limited edition bottle is sure to go down smooth. It's also the perfect Father's Day gift if your dad is the kind of guy who saves spirits so he can crack them out for "special occasions". Every dram of Glenfiddich's 16-Year-Old Single Malt is sure to be enjoyed. If you're lucky, he might even let you have a glass. The Glenfiddich 16-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (RRP $150) is available at First Choice, Liquorland, Vintage Cellars and independent retailers. You can purchase it here. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy. Images: Glenfiddich
If you're looking to escape the heat this summer, you'll find plenty of relief waiting down a hidden staircase beneath boutique CBD hotel QT Sydney. On offer: compelling flicks, bespoke Four Pillars cocktails and sweet, sweet air-con, all at the new QT Cinema Club. Officially launching today, Tuesday, December 1, the site's subterranean 30s-era theatrette and accompanying speakeasy bar has been transformed into one of the coolest movie-watching destinations in town. And it's available for private bookings, hosting up to 28 people per session. Film-wise, QT Cinema Club will screen a broad-ranging program of classics, action films, romance flicks and horror, curated by Four Pillars own avid film buff and co-founder Matt Jones. There's a big retro vibe to the catalogue — and you can pick between enjoyable throwbacks such as Dirty Dancing and Lost in Translation, romance flicks like Before Sunrise and Strictly Ballroom, and the sci-fi joys of Blade Runner and Back to the Future. Among the 50-movie lineup, there's also action fare such as Mad Max and Reservoir Dogs, and horror films like The Shining and The Cabin in the Woods. To enjoy alongside your chosen flick, you'll find a lineup of specially crafted cocktails made with different varieties of Four Pillars gin, with each carefully matched to a specific movie genre. There are sips like The Last Action Cocktail, which is designed to celebrate the high-energy adventure flicks; Couple Seating, as inspired by romance; and Planet of the Grapes, as made with the distillery's famed Bloody Shiraz Gin. Of course, you can rest assured that these are some very high-end movie beverages, given that last month Four Pillars took out the title of World's Best Gin Producer for the second year running. QT Cinema Club guests have a choice of two plush cinematic packages, starting with the $79 per person 'Debut' option, which includes bottomless gin-salted popcorn, one Four Pillars cocktail, a movie screening and $25 QT Sydney room credit. More drinks and snacks are available to purchase once you're there, too. Alternatively, you can opt for the $149 per person 'Blockbuster' package, which will get you the same set-up — but with all five different Four Pillars cocktails — in addition to curated snacks from the hotel's Parlour Cucina and a Parlour Lane choc top. Find QT Cinema Club beneath QT Sydney, at 49 Market Street, Sydney. To book, visit the hotel's website.
When a solar flare hits Europe, life changes instantly. Power grids go down, much of Britain is left without electricity, supply routes are threatened, vigilantes come out in force and chaos unsurprisingly ensues. That's the setup in COBRA, the high-stakes drama series that combines a disaster scenario with political intrigue, and tasks Prime Minister Robert Sutherland (Robert Carlyle) with deciding how to cope under such intense circumstances. If you're wondering about the show's name, no, snakes aren't involved. But meeting to discuss important matters is a firm part of COBRA, which takes its moniker from the nickname for the Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms (COBR) in London — and, as you might know from news during the past year, from the group of top-ranking British Government leaders who come together in times of crisis to respond to national emergencies.
Granted, the title lets you know what you're in for, but The Stoning of Soraya M. still manages to leave you feeling utterly undone. Based on the French-Iranian journalist Freidoune Sahebjam's best-selling book, the film uncovers the horrific true story of Soraya M. (Mozhan Marnò) as it was daringly recounted to him by her grief-stricken aunt Zahra Khanum (Shohreh Aghdashloo). James Caviezel (no stranger to brutal religious rites after his turn in The Passion of the Christ) plays Sahebjam, whose car breaks down on the edge of a dusty Iranian village in 1986, and, while he waits for the repairman, Zahra audaciously takes the opportunity to report the atrocity that occurred only the day before. The moral outrage of writer/director team Cyrus and Betsy Nowrasteh is palpable, infused in a film that may become a little preachy but nonetheless asserts itself as an important document for the world's attention. Aghdashloo is superb, embodying her character with such ferocious passion that it is possible to overlook some of the more clunky lines of dialogue. Marnò is similarly impressive, bringing striking realism to the role of a slighted wife — whose husband wants rid of her to remarry a 14-year-old — and one condemned to death by the most archaic, barbarous means. Unfortunately, other characters fall into stereotypes: a singularly spiteful and calculating husband (Navid Negahban), a conniving Mullah (Ali Pourtash) and a hapless neighbour (Parviz Sayyad) blackmailed into bearing false witness. However, the town mayor (David Diaan) does bring some refreshing ambivalence to a film that otherwise borders on melodramatic misogyny. It should come as no surprise, then, that this film is very heavy going; the lengthy stoning scene will undoubtedly test your mettle. Yet there is something powerful about bearing witness to the true horror of this practice, the experience of which rescues the reality from the realm of nightmare, and in doing so enters its audience into a significant (and tragically contemporary) dialogue. https://youtube.com/watch?v=asH9sUD0A-s
"Do you guys ever think about dying?" When life in plastic is fantastic, that's not a line anyone that would expect to come out of Barbie's (Margot Robbie, Babylon) mouth. And, amid giant blowout parties with planned choreography with all her pals, and the constant devotion of her beau Ken (Ryan Gosling, The Gray Man), such existential musings do come as a shock. When she can no longer float off of her rooftop and her usually arched feet become flat, the Barbie movie's main namesake heads to the real world for answers. That's the plot for Greta Gerwig's film, which marks the actor-turned-director's third solo stint behind the camera after Lady Bird and Little Women, and has been teasing its extremely pink on-screen worlds in not one but two trailers prior to the just-dropped full sneak peek. Even dolls living in a dreamland struggle with life's big questions, it seems — and, when the film's key Barbie and Ken drive through Barbie Land's gates to discover what's on the other side, they struggle with Los Angeles as well. With mugshots to prove it, they even get arrested. Splashing as much humour as pastel hues throughout its frames, Barbie is scripted by Gerwig and fellow filmmaker Noah Baumbach — her helmer on Greenberg, Frances Ha, Mistress America and White Noise, and real-life partner — and boasts a cast that's a gleaming toy chest of talent. Indeed, it might just be the most anticipated toy-to-film release ever. There's that pedigree, of course. There's also the picture's patently playful vibe, which started with parodying the one and only 2001: A Space Odyssey and has kept beaming brightly from there. All those on-screen stars help fill the feature with Barbies, including Issa Rae (Insecure) as president Barbie, Dua Lipa (making her movie debut) as a mermaid Barbie, Emma Mackey (Emily) as a Nobel Prize-winning physicist Barbie, Alexandra Schipp (tick, tick... BOOM!) as an author Barbie and Ana Cruz Kayne (Jerry and Marge Go Large) as a supreme court justice Barbie — plus Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton) as diplomat Barbie, Kate McKinnon (Saturday Night Live) as a Barbie who is always doing the splits, Hari Nef (Meet Cute) as doctor Barbie, Ritu Arya (The Umbrella Academy) as a Pulitzer-winning Barbie and Sharon Rooney (Jerk) as lawyer Barbie. There's also a whole heap of Kens, including Simu Liu (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings), Kingsley Ben-Adir (One Night in Miami), Ncuti Gatwa (the incoming Doctor Who) and Scott Evans (Grace and Frankie). And, Michael Cera (Arrested Development) plays Alan, Emerald Fennell (The Crown) plays Midge, Helen Mirren (Shazam! Fury of the Gods) is the narrator, America Ferrera (Superstore) and Ariana Greenblatt (65) are humans, Jamie Demetriou (Catherine Called Birdy) is a suit, Will Ferrell (Spirited) wears a suit as Mattel's CEO and Connor Swindells (also Sex Education) is an intern. Will this be the best figurine-to-film adaptation yet in a mixed field that also includes the Transformers series, Trolls, The Lego Movie and its sequel, Battleship and the GI Joe films? The answer will be pulled out of the toy box in cinemas on July 20 Down Under. And yes, Aqua's 'Barbie Girl' finally (finally!) gets a spin in this trailer, although you likely already had it stuck in your head just thinking about this movie anyway. Check out the full trailer for Barbie below: Barbie releases in cinemas Down Under on July 20, 2023.
If rom-coms have taught us anything, it's that spontaneous dates are the quickest way to win someone's heart. From the surprise paintball date in Ten Things I Hate About You, which sees a paint-covered Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles kiss for the very first time, to the impromptu IKEA meetup in 500 Days of Summer that begins with the couple looking for trivets and ends with them planning their future home — it's clear that off-the-cuff dates result in a whole lotta love. Well, good news lovebirds, spontaneity isn't solely reserved for the silver screen. You too can sweep your main squeeze off their feet with a surprise date this summer. To make sure your meet-cute is suitably special, we've partnered with Henkell, purveyors of quality bubbles, and pulled together five spontaneous date ideas that are sure to put a sparkle in your partner's eye. Have fun, lovers. BUBBLES AND A BOARD GAME BY THE WATER While competitive activities can be slightly risky on a date — depending on how cut-throat you or your lover is — they're also a great way to bond and learn about your partner. For instance, you can play some Scrabble to test their vocabulary or, better yet, Twister for some shameless physical flirting. (No judgement, we've all been there.) We suggest grabbing a bottle of Henkell Blanc de Blancs sparkling then heading to Parsley Bay in Vaucluse. This secluded hang-out has a nice patch of grass for gaming, as well as stunning water views to enjoy once that competitive spirit has wanned. SHOP FOR VINTAGE OUTFITS THEN HEAD FOR A BOOGIE Take your date to Newtown and peruse the many op shops that line King Street. It's a great way to keep things cheap and cheerful, give back to the community and rebuff fast fashion. It also gives you a chance to goof around trying to find each other over-the-top outfits like you're in some sort of cutesy rom-com montage. Once you've picked out some vintage gems for one another, head to The Imperial for a night of dancing. This bars effusive and colourful atmosphere — best showcased during 'Drag and Dine' at Pricillas — will match your eclectic outfits. Get set for a memorable night. STARGAZE WITH SOME SPARKLING AND A PICNIC The balmy nights of summer are perfect for an al fresco dinner underneath the stars. Let's face it, not much can compete with our mesmerising Milky Way. The dinner can be as low-key or opulent as you like. Really, the star-filled sky is the limit. Since the date requires little planning, it's a perfect off-the-cuff option. You can keep things simple with a blanket in the backyard and a charcuterie board, or take things up a notch with a bottle of Henkell Trocken sparkling, some fresh oysters and a chiminea. Keep an eye out for a shooting star; there's something magical about sitting with your person and watching the sky perform for you. RELAX AT A ROOFTOP POOL We know, chilling poolside is a rather obvious choice in summer. But you can elevate your date, literally and figuratively, by taking your partner to this rooftop pool in the heart of the city. Head to The Old Clare in Chippendale to cool off among the clouds while simultaneously soaking up views of the city skyline. The recently renovated al fresco area offers a 14-metre heated pool, luxe surrounds and panoramic vistas. It's the perfect place for you and your date to relax and unwind. The Old Clare rooftop is open on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3–9.30pm and Fridays to Sundays from 12–9.30pm. And after you've had enough pool time, head up George Street to Chefs Gallery where you can crack into a bottle of Henkell and dig into plates of peking duck-stuffed roti, prawn and scallop shui mai and handmade noodles with spinach and mushroom, slow-cooked beef brisket or a variety of seafood. [caption id="attachment_672350" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Eugene Hyland.[/caption] BE KIDS FOR THE AFTERNOON Take a spontaneous trip to one of Sydney's novelty bars, like Holey Moley, 1989 or Archie Brothers, and channel your inner kidults. Whether it's playing a round of mini-golf, smashing buttons playing retro Street Fighter and that excellent retro Simpsons game or trying your luck at an arcade game, these venues give a big dose of nostalgia and allow you to act like a kid free from judgment. (Just don't chuck a tantrum and throw your golf club if you lose; only well-behaved children score future dates.) Finish up the day as an adult, sipping a glass of Henkell Blanc de Blancs and reminiscing over the best plays. Summer is here and it's time to pop the bubbly. Pick up a bottle of Henkell Blanc de Blancs or Henkell Trocken for your next sparkling occasion.
From Friday, May 1, 2020 a maximum of two adult Sydneysiders can visit a second household, so you can start planning small dinner parties. Remember, though, that you need to continue to follow the rest of the social distancing and public gathering restrictions. If, like us, you've suddenly realised that you go to bed before 10pm, enjoy a fair slosh of milk in your tea and your ankles crack inexplicably when you stand up or sit down, you might be feeling like you're getting too old for places like 'the club'. Well, we say embrace it; start doing grown-up things like having dinner parties instead. Trust us, you're probably not the only one in your crew who'd much rather be at home on the couch, sipping G&Ts with mates and in bed by a wholesome hour. The days of nice cheese, top-shelf (or close to) alcohol, decent home cooking and adult conversations about the state of the world (you'll need the drinks for this) have arrived. So your dinner party is as successful as it can be, here are some tips. Start by buying some matching crockery, teach yourself to make a good roast and move on down this list. [caption id="attachment_731075" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Julia Sansone[/caption] THE APERITIF Luckily this one is easy. Well, it can be. You can throw together a refreshing G&T — this timeless combination of gin and tonic water isn't to be sneered at — whip up a spritz or get fancy with something slightly more complicated, like a negroni (which is just equal parts Campari, gin and sweet vermouth). If you want go even fancier, we've wrapped up some recipes for run tipples, such as sangria, a basil collins and le grand fizz — over here. [caption id="attachment_689382" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kitti Gould.[/caption] THE NIBBLES Proven over the centuries, the Italians know what to do with their savoury pre-dinner snacks. So, get your head, heart and stomach around the bellissimo antipasti game. Head to a proper Italian food store to stock up on the goods, because if there's something worth spending most of your week's pay on it's a really, really good pecorino and some deluxe salumi. Try the truly hallowed halls of Mediterranean Wholesalers in Melbourne's Brunswick, the storied Paesanella Food Emporium in Sydney's Marrickville or New Farm Deli in Brisbane's New Farm, which has been operating since 1975. You can also check out our Gin List for some recipe ideas for your pre-dinner eats — and what's more, each one comes with a gin cocktail pairing to try. You're welcome. THE TABLE SETTING Being an adult is all about putting in the effort — think making bread from scratch, remembering to send birthday cards or, you know, finally graduating from the sharehouse vibes and hanging art on the walls. The same thing goes for when you're hosting a dinner party: why not put in just a smidge more effort? Look up how to properly set a table, invest in some cloth serviettes (it's an eco-friendly decision, too) and make place cards for your guests. (Pinterest has approximately 200 million ideas to inspire you.) For the final touch, find every candle and candleholder you may own and scatter them across the table. Just no scented candles, please. You don't want those Glasshouse fragrances clashing with the meal you've thoughtfully prepared. THE LIGHTING Nothing can make a dinner party more uncomfortable than glaring fluorescent lights or the sun setting mid-meal making it almost impossible to see the food on your plate. Ease your way into the darkening evening with soft, warm lighting a la the candle collection above— or just throw a scarf over a lamp and call it décor. Whatever floats your lantern. If you're sitting outside for the evening, set up some candles early on to light once the sun dips beneath the horizon. Oh, and a string or two of fairy lights never goes amiss. THE MEAL It's the pièce de résistance of the evening, the opportunity to impress your friends with your cooking prowess (be it newly learned or well-honed). What you'll serve to eat should come with careful decision. Do any of your guests have dietary requirements? How much time do you have to prep and cook? Does your current salary afford a full roast to feed ten guests? When you've considered all these factors, then it's time to scour Google for the best-rated recipes. We've also delved into our archives to find you some past recipes we've scored from the likes of Sydney's Thievery, Porteño, Big Poppa's and Three Blue Ducks. THE PLAYLIST The first knock or ring of your doorbell may alert you of the fact that you have no music playing yet. Your mind has been kept busy prepping and cooking and primping that the evening's soundtrack hasn't even yet registered. Don't panic — we're here to help. Grab your phone and just chuck this smooth dinner party playlist on for the evening. Erykah Badu and Toto will help you chase away the nerves and comfortably settle into the evening (G&T in hand — you deserve it). https://open.spotify.com/user/concreteplayground/playlist/6SBK5b5pwaqhyGo8scJnQl
Busby's soft lamp-lit ambience and velvety red carpets are the perfect match for a pasta and wine night, complete with spinning records. And the experience is even more enchanting when heading out to dinner won't put undue stress on your wallet. Priced at $30, every Monday–Wednesday evening at the restaurant is now marked with a trio of pasta dishes ready to ramp up your midweek mood. Featuring two menu favourites and a weekly rotating pasta special, your dish is paired with a house red, white or rosé. Ready to dine? Your options include rigatoni with winter greens, kale pistou and pecorino, or baked ziti with white bolognese and béchamel sauce. Meanwhile, you're invited to head along each week to discover what special dish the chefs have cooked up in the kitchen. Situated inside Oxford House, aka Paddington's first lifestyle hotel, this welcoming brunch spot transforms into a laidback wine and hi-fi bar after dark. So, plan your next date night or catch up with friends to the sound of clinking glasses and vinyl crackle. [caption id="attachment_924011" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jonny Valiant[/caption]
Since opening in early 2020, Cadenza Floral Cafe has been serving up coffee, high tea and elaborate brunches in an even more elaborate flower-filled pink space to North Sydneysiders. Sitting under the Skye apartments on the Pacific Highway, Cadenza is the project of father-daughter duo Celine and Romi Kang. It started off life as a preserved flower store, before adding a food and beverage offering. As you can imagine, florals set the tone for the space, which is packed with colour from flower-lined, pink and turquoise walls, and plush velvet pink chairs. The menu is stacked with Korean-influenced brunch fare and fresh pastries. The indecisive out there can go for a High Rise, and get two ($34) or three ($50) dishes stacked up like the finest high tea, only there are no mini cucumber sandwiches in sight. Instead, you'll be tucking into french toast ($18) or belgian waffles ($18) topped with sticky, sugar-glazed banana, berries, ice cream and chocolate, followed by a brown rice bowl of either bulgogi beef ($16.50) or grilled prawns and crab meat ($18.50), and a muesli ($16), an acai bowl ($16). If you can fit it all in. Kimchi fried rice ($20.50), sweet potato noodles ($18.50), pulled pork burgers ($13.50) and hot dogs ($12.50) also feature for later-in-the-day meals. Theatrics (and Instagram aesthetics) are big players, with syringes full of chocolate sauce, deconstructed iced coffees, and pretty floral teas and sodas just begging you to get your phone out for the 'gram. Coffee is from boutique roastery Adore and can be made with almost every milk substitute on the market.
Wellington Paranormal is back for its fourth and final season, Rose Matafeo's rom-com sitcom Starstruck has just returned for its second batch of episodes, and now Taika Waititi and Rhys Darby's HBO Max pirate parody is less than a month away — yes, it's proving a fantastic time for TV comedies either made in New Zealand or starring NZ talent. And if you're particularly keen to say "ahoy!" to Waititi and Darby's Our Flag Means Death, here's some more great news: its just dropped an unsurprisingly hilarious full trailer. Sometimes, the world just handily delivers answers to questions you didn't even know you ever had. You might not have actively wondered to yourself "what'd happen if NZ treasures Taika Waititi and Rhys Darby played pirates?", for instance, but we're betting you're now keener than a buccaneer searching for a bottle of rum to discover how it turns out. And, arriving on Thursday, March 3 on Binge in Australia and Friday, March 4 on Neon in NZ, Our Flag Means Death will firmly answer that query. The ten-episode sitcom sees Darby lead the show as Stede Bonnet — who was a real-life pirate who took to the seas in the early 18th century. The reason that his story is getting the streaming treatment? Bonnet was a 'gentleman pirate', as both the initial teaser and just-dropped full trailer for Our Flag Means Death dubs him. He left his life of privilege to rove the oceans, which this comedy is set to have plenty of fun with. [caption id="attachment_840021" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Aaron Epstein/HBO Max[/caption] As the show's sneak peeks so far demonstrate, Bonnet has some bold ideas about how life onboard should run — bold compared to the usual pirate stereotypes, that is. And, that sees him clash with a very famous name from pirate history: Blackbeard, which is who Waititi plays, and who appears far more traditional with his views on the whole pirate caper.. The two immensely funny NZ talents are joined by a long list of co-stars that includes Ewen Bremner (First Cow), David Fane (Paper Champions), Nathan Foad (Bloods), Joel Fry (Cruella), Samson Kayo (Truth Seekers), Rory Kinnear (No Time to Die) and Leslie Jones (Death to 2020). And, while Our Flag Means Death is the brainchild of writer, showrunner and executive producer David Jenkins (People of Earth), Waititi directs the pilot — and executive produces, lending his name and support to another up-and-coming comedy after doing the same with Reservation Dogs last year. And yes, that means he's directing Darby yet again, as he's already done in everything from Flight of the Conchords and What We Do in the Shadows to Hunt for the Wilderpeople. Our Flag Means Death will drop three episodes on March 3, another three on March 10, then two episodes on both March 17 and March 24. Check out the full trailer for Our Flag Means Death below: Our Flag Means Death will start streaming in Australia via Binge on Thursday, March 3 and in New Zealand via Neon on Friday, March 4.
If your wildest dreams right now are all about getting in on Taylor Swift's Eras tour, then the pop superstar comes bearing gorgeous and enchanted news. The singer will play Melbourne and Sydney in early 2024, but she's splashing her massive show across cinema screens first, confirming that Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film will show Down Under when it rolls out worldwide this spring. Look what the world made Swift do: turn her current smash-hit tour into a movie that's hitting picture palaces and sharing all things Eras with the globe. The film was first announced a few weeks back, when it dropped a trailer, but only North American screenings were locked in at the time — and, it was feared that the flick mightn't play Australia and New Zealand until Swift visited this part of the world in February. Thankfully, Swift isn't making Aussie and NZ cinemagoers wait for this big-screen view of her huge show. "The tour isn't the only thing we're taking worldwide," the singer announced via social media. Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film will roll out across more than 100 countries, most on Friday, October 13 — including Australia and Aotearoa — and some in early November. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift) Fans are in for a money-can't-buy view of the 'Shake It Off', 'We Are Never Getting Back Together' and 'Bad Blood' musician's gig — working through her entire career so far, playing tracks from each of her studio albums in a three-hour, 44-song, ten-act spectacular. The Eras Tour kicked off in March in the US, ending that run in August. Swift also headed to Mexico in August as well. Brazil is her last stop in 2023, before playing Japan, Singapore, France, Sweden, Portugal, Spain, the UK, Ireland, The Netherlands, Poland, Austria and Australia until August 2024. She'll then return to the US, and then visit Canada next November. Check out the trailer for Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film below: Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film will hit cinemas worldwide, including in Australia and New Zealand, from Friday, October 13 — head to the film's website for further details and bookings.
Casting a biopic can't be easy. The awards-courting label that hangs over the genre that's earned Cillian Murphy (Oppenheimer), Will Smith (King Richard), Jessica Chastain (The Eyes of Tammy Faye), Rami Malek (Bohemian Rhapsody), Renée Zellweger (Judy) and Gary Oldman (Darkest Hour) lead actor and actress Oscars over the past decade alone can't make the task any less tricky, either. Then, when music bios get a spin — which is often — the weight of recognition and fandom is an especially heavy factor. Does the actor resemble the star that they're playing physically or in spirit? Can they? Will their attempt to slip into someone else's mega fame read like a triumphant ode or a faded facsimile? Will they try to inhabit rather than impersonate? Is doing the real-life person justice even possible? The questions go on. Even with those queries in mind, Back to Black has chosen its lead well. In Industry's Marisa Abela, who has just six prior acting credits on her resume before now — Barbie is the latest; Man in a Box, her first, came when she was only 11 — the Amy Winehouse-focused film has someone who looks the part beehive or not, and convincingly lives and breathes it behind a north London accent. She sings it, too, when the picture weaves in her own vocals atop Winehouse's music. But casting isn't the only key element for a biopic. The dance that a feature is taking through a well-known figure's life needs the material and the approach to support its central performance — the lyrics and tune to match with sheer talent, in music terms. If they fall flat, so does the flick. And unlike a bad song for an exceptional singer, there's no second chances in this realm. So echoes the big refrain of Back to Black: no matter her significant efforts, Abela as Winehouse is given as by-the-numbers a ditty to croon, and a beat to hit, as the music biopic genre has ever pumped out. It's impossible to know what the subject of the film would think of it, of course, but the movie from director Sam Taylor-Johnson (A Million Little Pieces) and screenwriter Matt Greenhalgh (Film Stars Don't Die in Liverpool) portrays her as someone who hated formula, which the picture itself does not. At their most routine, biographical features boil people and their achievements down to standard plot points that could be swapped into any such flick about any such folk with a sliver of fame. The names change, and the eras, but the details are virtually interchangeable. Dispiritingly, that's on full display here in a tale about supreme potential, the worldwide success to go with it, haunting demons that can't be shaken and a premature death. As a result, everyone knows what'll happen in Back to Black even if you somehow don't know a thing about Winehouse going in. Here, she's an outwardly plucky but inwardly vulnerable teen with a killer set of pipes who has a rocky time of it in the spotlight, in love and with addiction through her twenties until she heartbreakingly joins the 27 Club. If that was the movie's one-sentence pitch to get the green light, it's also all that Taylor-Johnson and Greenhalgh — who worked together before on 2009's Nowhere Boy, which was about John Lennon's adolescence — have committed to. To flesh it out, they've also made the broadest strokes, drawn from the most-obvious details and spun a narrative that's one-note. In this telling, which holds itself up as a tribute, Winehouse's on-again, off-again romance with Blake Fielder-Civil (Jack O'Connell, Ferrari) becomes her defining trait, not her voice. When they meet in a pub, bonding over drinks and pool, and bantering with enough woozy charm to get the entire bar drunk from proximity, Fielder-Civil introduces her to 60s girl group The Shangri-Las, one of her influences. Their first breakup is then the inspiration for the iconic album that gifts the movie its name. The end of their marriage during his incarceration, plus the news that he has started a family with someone else, are poised as developments that she can't get over. There's so little to Winehouse without him in this account — and so much that doesn't directly involve him, such as her early years and even recording Back to Black, is rushed through or relegated to a quick montage — that the movie might as well be called Amy & Blake (it's no Sid and Nancy, though, or even Pam & Tommy). Winehouse is "no Spice Girl", the film has her stress, but she is little more than Blake's girl in its eyes — and regardless of the strength of their love throughout their tumultuous romance, that's hardly the complete Winehouse story. Back to Black gives its protagonist a strong connection with the grandmother (Lesley Manville, The Crown) that she idolises and considers a style icon, and an unwavering sense of what she wants her career to be, but neither earns enough attention to overtake the picture's Blake-centric angle. When it comes to Winehouse's father Mitch (Eddie Marsan, Franklin), the main aim seems to be contrasting with his depiction in Senna and Diego Maradona director Asif Kapadia's Academy Award-winning 2015 documentary Amy. There's no depth there, or to much in Black to Black, as it also puts too much emphasis on its subject's maternal desires and not enough on the ugliness of becoming paparazzi-hounded tabloid fodder, or of addiction. The only place that you'll find complexity: Abela's performance and Winehouse's jazz-pop sound. It's no surprise, then, that the film is at its best when it's recreating gigs, or that they're the next most-prominent part of the movie after the Amy-Blake love story. But unlike in Bohemian Rhapsody or Elvis — or 2024's fellow music biopic Bob Marley: One Love — the concert scenes feel less designed to get audiences soaking in the sensation of watching a stunning talent, transporting them to those moments like they're there in-person, and more about adding a few easy highs to a tale told as an inescapable tragedy. Taylor-Johnson and Greenhalgh, the latter of which also penned the excellent Joy Division-focused Control, used Winehouse's lyrics and interviews as their guide to making the feature, but they've still filtered it through a view that sees the outcome of her life as inevitable. To that, to the well-worn bio template, to making her time with Blake its point of interest and to much more about Back to Black, there's only one response — and it's the same that Winehouse gave to going to rehab.
Not content with filling a Tokyo warehouse with some of the most dazzling and immersive art you're likely to feast your eyes on — not to mention play with — art collective teamLab is now turning an old oil tank into a digital waterfall. With the interdisciplinary outfit's Borderless Digital Art Museum open for less than a year and proving one of the Japanese city's hottest tickets, the group is set to bring a collection of eye-popping works to China. Coming to the new Tank Shanghai from March 23 to August 24, teamLab: Universe of Water Particles in the Tank features cascading waterfalls, blooming flowers, rushing waves and scattering cherry blossoms as part of an engaging series of digital, interactive and interacting pieces. There's no such thing as a dull artwork where teamLab is concerned, but the undisputed highlight of its next foray into China is Universe of Water Particles in the Tank, Transcending Boundaries. Spearheaded by art collector Qiao Zhibing, Tank Shanghai's 60,000-square-metre space is built out of five empty oil tanks, so there's nowhere better to project streams of falling water. teamLab's piece will take over one tank, running over the interior surface. And, when folks stand on the waterfall's floor or walk up to its wall of digital water, it'll react to their presence, with the flow changing direction just like it would if you were standing underneath the real thing. Living up to the 'transcending boundaries' part of its name, Universe of Water Particles in the Tank will also interact with other works. When its trickles hit floral piece Flowers and People, Cannot be Controlled but Live Together, Transcending Boundaries - A Whole Year per Hour, which represents 12 months' worth of blossoming and wilting as its moniker suggests, the digital stream will cause petals to scatter. Both pieces are reminiscent of works also on display in Tokyo, but that doesn't make them any less glorious. The same applies to Black Waves: Lost, Immersed and Reborn, which projects one continuous wave across multiple walls. teamLab: Universe of Water Particles in the Tank runs from March 23 to August 24 at Tank Shanghai,2380 Longteng Avenue, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China, with tickets currently on sale from 199 renminbi. Images: teamLab.
Burger fiends of Sydney scored a new go-to joint back in 2021, when US-born brand Five Guys opened its first Australian store in Penrith. But if you're keen on giving the chain's combination of meat and buns a try in the inner city, get ready to add a trip to George Street to your menu — with Five Guys launching its first Sydney CBD outpost, and second Aussie spot overall, on Monday, June 6. Back in March, the brand revealed that it'd be opening at 383 George Street sometime midyear, if this news sounds familiar. Now, however, it has set the exact launch date. Setting up shop within Spiden House, the new store will span just under 323 square metres, seat 85 burger lovers, and blend the building's heritage-listed features with Five Guys' red-and-white colour scheme. And, it'll be slinging burgs, fries, hotdogs, sandwiches and shakes — aka Five Guys' usual range — obviously. If you're wondering why the brand has built up such a following, the fact that its made-to-order burgers skew in the classic direction is one good reason. These burgs come with two hand-formed patties on toasted buns, with your choice of free toppings (including pickles, grilled mushrooms and jalapeños). Five Guys also does bacon cheeseburgers that add two strips of bacon and two slices of Kraft American cheese as well. Prefer hotdogs, sandwiches (in veggie, cheese or BLT varieties), hand-cut fries (with or without Cajun spices) and vanilla milkshakes? They're all on the menu as well. Don't go thinking that the latter are boring, though — you can add bacon, bananas, peanut butter, salted caramel and even Oreo pieces to your design-your-own beverage. As anyone with allergies should note, though, Five Guys only cooks its fries in peanut oil. The popular chain already has more than 1600 stores to its name across America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia since starting back in 1986 in the Washington, DC area — and has amassed quite the reputation in the process. Even given the number of big-name US burger chains with hefty followings, such as Shake Shack and In-N-Out, it stands out. More local Five Guys stores are in the works, too, in both Sydney and Melbourne before 2022 is out. Seagrass Boutique Hospitality Group, aka the folks behind The Meat & Wine Co, Hunter & Barrel, 6 Head, Ribs & Burgers, Italian Street Kitchen and Butcher and the Farmer, hold the master franchise for Five Guys in Australia and New Zealand — and while it hasn't revealed where more burgs will be coming everyone's ways just yet, setting up plenty of locations has always been the company's plan. When news that Five Guys was launching stores Down Under first hit in 2020, at least 20 spots were earmarked for Australia alone. Find Five Guys' new Sydney store at 383 George Street, Sydney, from Monday, June 6 — open from 11am–10pm daily.
Whether you're treating yourself to a staycation or travelling further afield, no one likes going on holiday without their four-legged best friend. That adorable pooch isn't just your trusty companion at home, but in general — and, as every dog lover knows, those barking cuties like doing everything you do (and 100-percent think they can, too). At QT Hotels & Resorts across Australia and New Zealand, your dog can now come for a luxurious sleepover with you, with the chain going pet-friendly. Book yourself and your pupper in for a night, and you won't be the only one ordering off the dine-in menu or scoping out the mini-bar, either. Now on offer at all of QT's sites, the chain's Pup Yeah! fur-friendly stays include a night's accommodation for you and your doggo, an in-room menu specifically for woofers, a pooch-friendly mini bar offering and designer canine bedding. The doggy food range is overseen by the brand's head of treats — Nic Wood in Australia and Jiwon Do in NZ — and includes steak tartare with raw beef, mushrooms and egg yolk; bone marrow risotto with bone broth and crispy pigs ears; and chicken livers and pork necks on wholemeal toast with chicken gravy. Fancy a pupper dessert? There's also a bacon ice cream sandwich, made from bacon ice cream, dried liver and oat biscuits. If your canine has dietary requirements, QT also has appropriate options thanks to Eden Bondi — including vegetable terrine, sweet potato meatballs, and pupcakes with watermelon. And, in the mini-bar, there are also treats from pet bakery Woof Gateau for Aussie dogs, while NZ pooches can snack on bites from Wellington dog bakery Smack Bang. Bedding-wise, in Australia your pupper will be reclining in comfort thanks to a Nice Digs sleep set — and Wolves of Wellington is doing the honours in NZ. Some QT sites are even doing dog treatments at their onsite spas, such as pedicures, mud masks and blow dries. If you're now thinking of planning an indulgent getaway with your pooch, you'll just need to make sure it weighs less than 20 kilograms. Packages start at $450 per night, which includes bedding, a water bowl and a dish for your doggo from the in-room menu. For more information about QT Hotels & Resorts' Pup Yeah! dog sleepovers — and to book a stay — visit the chain's website.
Not content with hosting the Brisbane Comedy Festival, queer culture fest Melt, and a jam-packed calendar of other events all year every year — and just adding a new outdoor venue, too — Brisbane Powerhouse is gifting music and art fans a brand-new boundary-pushing celebration of sound, tunes and performance. Meet ΩHM (pronounced "ohm"), a fresh venture that's all about getting adventurous. The New Farm venue has dubbed the event a "festival of other music", with a growing lineup that includes Peaches, Future Islands and Hear My Eyes doing Pan's Labyrinth to back up that statement. Across February and March 2023, ΩHM will take over the riverside spot with a program curated by Room40's Lawrence English alongside Brisbane Powerhouse Arts Program Director Brad Spolding, serving up a mix of big-name international headliners and emerging local acts — and gigs, cutting-edge shows and immersive installations. Peaches does the honours while she's in the country for Mona Foma, and Future Islands hits the fest as part of their first Aussie tour since 2017. Those two impressive headliners are part of ΩHM's previously announced first lineup drop, which also spans Monolake + Electric Indigo and The Chills, as well as Kae Tempest, Nakhane and black midi. There's more where that list of acts came from, too, with ΩHM turning its second program announcement into its big launch. Just announced today, Tuesday, November 29, ΩHM is screening Guillermo del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth like viewers have never seen it before — with a brand-new live score by Sleep D. This premiere performance marks Hear My Eyes' return to Brisbane, and continues its spate of stunning film-and-music combos (see: its take on Chopper in 2022 in Sydney and Melbourne, plus past tours of No Country for Old Men with Tropical F*ck Storm and Suspiria with King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard). Also joining the bill are audiovisual artist Robin Fox, Los Angeles-based composer Yann Novak and Iranian sound artist mHz, who'll serve up a triple bill of audiovisual performances. ΩHM will host the Australian premiere of Fox's Triptych straight from UNSOUND KRAKOW, featuring three RGB laser projectors working in synchronicity. If you've seen his past works — Night Sky for Brisbane Festival, Aqua Luma for Mona Foma 2021, BEACON for Mona Foma 2022 and MONOCHORD for Rising Festival 2022, for instance — you'll know you're in for something special. As for Novak, he'll be using sound and light to explore how both can focus one's awareness on their experiences, as informed by his partial colour blindness and dyslexia. And, New Zealand-based Iranian sound artist mHz will take inspiration from material and architecture to hone in on sound and light production. [caption id="attachment_880277" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Robin Fox, Single Origin, Diego Figueroa.[/caption] Also, Swiss artist Zimoun will present two installations, both Australian premieres and exclusive to Brisbane. His ΩHM berth marks his debut exhibiting to Aussie audiences in general, and will showcase his work with everyday and industrial materials to mix sound and architecture. "Works like Zimoun's kinetic sound sculptures, Robin Fox's expansive audiovisual laser environments and Hear My Eyes: Pan's Labyrinth x Sleep D exist at a special nexus of sight, sound and space," said English, announcing ΩHM's new additions. "These dynamic pieces capture intensity and energy matched with a fearless sense of focus. The works are simply mind-blowing." ΩHM runs throughout February and March at Brisbane Powerhouse, 119 Lamington Street, New Farm. For more information and to buy tickets, head to the Powerhouse website. Top image: Hadley Hudson.
This Thursday marks the opening of 'Central', the new retail hub at Central Park. To celebrate its first week the area will be abuzz with live entertainment, special events and giveaways. Architecture fans, now’s your chance to explore the new sustainably designed space (and have a squiz at that dizzying vertical garden). The brains behind the ‘living mall’ seem to have thought of everything — from eateries to shops to art spaces. Level 3 features a gallery to showcase local and international artists, a workshop area for visual artists and even a rehearsal space for performers. There’s free Wi-Fi and plenty of outdoor and indoor spaces to set up camp. Pretty cool. Tips for freebie hunters: Glue is giving 20 percent off storewide, and on Thursday from 11am-9pm Guzman y Gomez are serving free burritos. Between 4pm-8pm Thursday to Sunday you can check out live music, dance, contortionists, Harajuku girls (why not) and the FBi chill out lounge on Level 2.
The Last Supper, created and performed by Belgian theatre company Reckless Sleepers, is a haunting theatre experience. Simultaneously an homage to some of history's most famous and infamous deaths and a tribute to 13 death row victims, it shines a spotlight on final words and last meal requests both chilling and humorous. The set is minimal, just four long, white-clothed dining tables arranged in a square in the middle of Carriageworks' cavernous Bay 8. Upon entering, each audience member pulls a number out of a hat, is ushered to a seat at the table, and poured a glass of red wine. Three actors (Mole Wetherell, Leen Dewilde, and Tim Ingram) sit along one table like a panel of wine-drinking, cake-eating, cigarette-inhaling judges and weave together a narrative of final moments and last words, both true and muddled by the path of history. From Marylin Monroe's mysterious overdose ("Say goodbye to Pat, say goodbye to the president, and say goodbye to yourself, because you're a nice guy") to Andy Warhol ("Eh, yeah, you know, eh"), Beethoven ("Friends applaud, the comedy is over"), Jesus ("Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do"), and Eva Braun (who said, "I do"). With each quote written on tabs of rice paper, the performers then swallow their words, literally embodying each final utterance. Intermittently an inmate's case number is read out and, like a game of dinner roulette, a solemn waiter delivers a meal in a silver cloche to the corresponding audience member. The anticipation during these moments in the play is palpable, as the audience cranes to see whether it will be a chocolate cake or liver and goat's cheese or two hamburgers with battered deep fried eggs and French fries all drizzled in syrup, or a large plate of fruit. The concept is affecting, but the work's aesthetic elements, including the sound and set design, don't add much to the performance. Moments where the actors turn the pages of the scripts on their table also hamper the dramatic effect. The best part is the audience's response to the familiar dining-table setting, taking the opportunity to talk during the brief interval (where wine is topped up), to share their meals (in this performance people started to pass their plates around for others to try), and to continue once the show has officially finished, with the actors still in tow. The Last Supper concocts a potent mix of human ritual to leave you marvelling at how succinctly a meal or a single quote can sum up a life. The Last Supper is part of Performance Space's Matters of Life and Death, a program of Aussie and international works that look at that scary ol’ thing called death and our fear of it. Included is dance work Performance Anxiety, not-so-funhouse Unsettling Suite, an Eddie Sharp-curated instalment of NightTime, and the Death Knocks Supper Club of impolite dinner table conversation. Read what the artists had to say in our feature 'Seven Positive Ways to Think About Death at Performance Space'. Image by Heidrun Lohr.
Out with the old, in with the new: that's a running theme at 2023's Sydney Underground Film Festival. The Harbour City's now 17-year-old celebration of weird, wild and wonderful cinema is saying hello to a fresh venue, moving from 2022's Event Cinemas George Street and its past home at Marrickville's Factory Theatre to Dendy Newtown. And, in one of its big program highlights, it's also farewelling Arnie as Conan the Barbarian, embracing an all-female cast instead. First, the change of location: Festival Director Katherine Berger and her team will be back in the Inner West from Thursday, September 7–Sunday, September 10, this time in King Street's resident picture palace. Now, the just-announced lineup: as well as Conann from French filmmaker Bertrand Mandico's (After Blue), which follows its eponymous warrior through six female guises and hits Sydney straight from Cannes, SUFF's 2023 bill overflows with past, present and future cult flicks. Fans of Mandico can get their fest started early, thanks to a screening of The Wild Boys at Pink Flamingo Cinema on Wednesday, August 23; however, the rest of the standouts come during SUFF's usual four-day run. Kicking things off properly is opening night's Ukraine Guernica — Art Not War, George Gittoes' latest, about frontline artists challenging Russia's invasions of both Ukraine and Afghanistan. At the other end of the fest, comedy-horror Onyx the Fortuitous and the Talisman of Souls will close out 2023's event with a bit of satanic worship and black magic from The Weird Satanist Guy Andrew Bowser. Other must-sees include Werner Herzog: Radical Dreamer, an ode to the iconic and inimitable German director (and one-time Parks and Recreation star); Bob Byington's (Frances Ferguson) Lousy Carter, featuring David Krumholtz (Oppenheimer) as the down-on-his-luck titular character; Holy Mother, with Tokyo Gore Police's Yoshhiro Nishimura again splashing around gore, plus neon and laughs; and Poundcake, a slasher-comedy about a New York serial killer that's also a societal satire. Or, there's modern Frankenstein reimagining Birth/Rebirth; the delightfully named Hundreds of Beavers, about a cider salesman faced with plenty of hungry animals; and the post-apocalyptic vision of Welcome to Kittytown. Among SUFF's full documentary slate, viewers can check out the true crime-focused Citizen Sleuth as it dives into the ethics of the popular genre, enjoy Satan Wants You's look back at 80s-era satanic panic, and revel in Enter the Clones of Bruce's survey of the talents that endeavoured to replicate Bruce Lee after his death. And, as always, SUFF continues to showcase the most out-there shorts that the fest can find across four separate strands. Here, you might just see tomorrow's Aussie genre filmmakers getting their start — plus tales about possessed sex toys, Udo Kier's (Hunters) many on-screen deaths and curing zombie bites. Sydney Underground Film Festival will screen at Dendy Newtown, King Street, Newtown, from Thursday, September 7–Sunday, September 10. For further information, or to buy tickets, head to SUFF's website.
The first time that Will Smith was nominated for an Oscar, it was for dramatising Muhammad Ali's story in Ali. It's much, much, much too early to say if he'll get the nod for his latest stint as a sporting figure — no one has even seen his upcoming movie King Richard yet, after all — but Smith sure looks to be angling to add a few shiny trophies for his mantle. He plays someone familiar with watching other people pick up silverware, in fact, given that he's playing Richard Williams — father of superstar tennis champions Serena and Venus. As the name makes plain, King Richard is all about the dad behind the ace-swinging duo, and his role in raising them, nurturing their talents and establishing their careers. When the girls first start showing their skills in Compton as children, neither Serena nor Venus nor Richard have any idea where their path will head. Viewers obviously do, but consider this the story behind the well-known story. The tone: persistent, moving and inspirational, at least based on the just-dropped trailer for King Richard, ahead of its release Down Under in November. From the sneak peek, Smith plays Richard as determined, confident and hardworking. Told that he might have the next Michael Jordan on his hands, he replies that he actually has the next two. Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green (Monsters and Men), the biopic thankfully sees Smith in a completely different mode to his last big-screen appearance — in the abysmal, terrible and grating Bad Boys for Life. In King Richard, he's joined by Saniyaa Sidney (Fences) and Demi Singleton (Godfather of Harlem) stars as Venus and Serena, plus Aunjanue Ellis (Lovecraft Country) as their mother Oracene 'Brandi' Williams. Also among the familiar faces: Jon Bernthal (Those Who Wish Me Dead) as coach Rick Macci and Tony Goldwyn (Scandal) as coach Paul Cohen. Check out the trailer below: King Richard will release in Australian cinemas on November 18. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.
There are all sorts of bad movies. Some, like Palo Alto, smack of pretention and self-indulgence. Others, like Grace of Monaco, are poorly written and incompetently made. Yet others, like The Rover, fail on a level that is more difficult to quantify, unable to deliver a satisfying experience in spite the qualities they possess. Then there are movies like Yves Saint Laurent. For them, the word 'bad' seems inappropriate, because it suggests that they are in any way noteworthy. A French-language biopic on the eponymous fashion icon — a man whose name and designs altered the world of luxury clothing forever — Yves Saint Laurent is so bland, conventional and boring that it barely registers as a movie at all. Actor-turned-director Jalil Lespert follows the biopic playbook to the inoffensive letter. Guillaume Gallienne plays Laurent's long-time lover and business partner, whose wistful voiceover gives a rose-coloured tint to the already obsequious treatment. YSL himself is played by the gangly Pierre Niney; the competent enough actor saddled with a totally uninteresting role. And therein lies the film's biggest problem: Laurent's arc — from youthful prodigy to cocksure rebel to lonely, introverted genius — is one that we've seen played out literally hundreds of times before. So we watch, with utter indifference, as he alienates his friends and turns an industry on its head. Or so we're told, anyway. Thinly drawn side characters flit in and out as the years go by, each there to remind us that Laurent is changing the game. At a certain point, you just have to take their word for it. To be fair, even a layman can recognise the beauty of his designs, which Lespert trots out in montage after golden-hued montage. For fashionistas, at least, the film gives you plenty nice to look at. But clothes, despite what the old adage says, do not make the man. Laurent's work was remarkable, but his life, unfortunately, was not. So we're left with a film that is purely surface level, and that fades from your memory the second the end credits role. In some ways, you actually wish it were worse, because at least then there'd be something more to say about it. If nothing else, Grace of Monaco was fun to make fun of. Yves Saint Laurent doesn't even give you that. https://youtube.com/watch?v=-ec-DQ_7EUM
If you didn't know that The Outsider was based on a book by Stephen King, you'd guess rather quickly during the show's first episode. A child is found dead, a town is understandably shocked and scandalised, and all of the evidence points detective Ralph Anderson (Ben Mendelsohn) towards local Little League coach Terry Maitland (Jason Bateman) — except that just as much evidence also shows that Terry was miles away at the time the murder took place. Throw in a strange hooded figure who keeps hanging around the Maitlands' house, plus a private detective (Cynthia Ervio) with preternatural deductive abilities, and The Outsider combines crime and horror in an instantly absorbing fashion. It's a must for King fans, whether you've read his 2018 novel or not. It's also absolutely essential for Mendo lovers, with the Aussie actor breaking away from his recent villainous blockbuster roles and putting in quite the performance.
To swim at the beach is to enjoy pure, natural beauty, but swimming at the pool allows for something else: the appreciation of nature and the human-made together. Whether driven by landlocked location, the presence of healing hot springs, or just a fear of waves, people have built stunning public swimming pools all over the world. These are ten of the best. Gellert Baths - Budapest, Hungary One hundred and eighteen thermal springs produce 70 million litres of warm water in Budapest every day. It's little wonder that the Hungarian capital is otherwise known as the 'Spa City'. Of the many pools found there, the Gellert Baths are the most visited. Built during the First World War, they are famous for their majestic, art nouveau architecture and the healing powers of their springs, acknowledged since medieval times. Badeschiff - Berlin, Germany As part of a 2004 public art project, Berlin based artist Susanne Lorenz transformed the hull of a 32m-long ship into a swimming pool and set it afloat it on the River Spree. Known as the Badeschiff, meaning 'bathing ship' in English, it is now one of Berlin’s primary summer attractions and includes table tennis tables and DJs for year-round fun. Montjuic Municipal Pool - Barcelona, Spain If you're a Kylie Minogue fan, you might recognise this view. She and a crowd of rather statuesque divers spend her video clip 'Slow' rolling around on beach towels next to the Montjuic Municipal Pool. Located on a hill high above Barcelona, this one offers spectacular scenery and Olympic diving boards. The Blue Lagoon - Reykjavik, Iceland The silica- and sulphur-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon are believed to possess powerful medicinal qualities. Whether or not you're one of the faithful, you're bound to be seduced by the mystical surroundings and the year-round 37-39°C water temperatures, especially if you're visiting during one of Reykjavik's icy winters. Having appeared in The Amazing Race 6, Hostel: Part II, and Britain's Next Top Model, the Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland's star tourist attractions. Yrjonkatu Swimming Hall - Helsinki, Finland This one is a must for skinny dipping enthusiasts. Up until 2001, you weren't even allowed in the Yrjonkatu with your clothes on. These days, nudity is still popular, but not obligatory, and men and women must visit at separate times. Established in June 1928, Yrjönkatu is Scandinavia’s oldest indoor public swimming pool. Its stunning classical-style architecture conjures up an atmosphere reminiscent of the ancient Roman baths. Barton Springs Pool - Austin, Texas For thousands of years, the Tonkawa Native American tribe used the springs that feed into Barton Pool during sacred rituals. Acquired by settlers in the 19th century and then by the City of Austin during the 1920s, the springs have been transformed into a public pool, which now lies inside Zilker Metropolitan Park. The water temperature is never much lower than 20°C and rarely exceeds 22°C, so you can take the plunge in comfort at any time of year. Pocas do Gomes - Madeira, Portugal The Pocas do Gomes lie on the idyllic southern edge of Madeira, a Portugese archipelago located 400km north of the Canary Islands. Naturally formed from volcanic rock, these pools enable expansive views over the Atlantic Ocean. A nearby restaurant offers fresh seafood and Portugese-style culinary delights. Piscine Molitor - Paris, France The Piscine Molitor, after which Yann Martel's increasingly famous fictional hero is named, may not be considered one of the world’s most beautiful pools right now. Built in 1929, but having closed in 1989, it became a favourite haunt for hoodlums and graffiti artists throughout the 1990s. However, a 2014 reopening promises the reconstruction of the pool in all its art deco glory. If Ang Lee's imaginative depictions are anything to go by, the Piscine Molitor will soon be vying for top of the list. Krapfenbaldwad - Vienna, Austria Situated just outside of Vienna and surrounded by vineyards, Krapfenbaldwad affords sweeping views. Given that Austria is landlocked, this pool provides some welcome cool relief for both locals and visitors and is often packed during the summer months. The old-fashioned changing rooms add an olde worlde charm to the bathing experience. Bondi Icebergs Baths - Sydney, Australia Finally, we'd be doing ourselves a disservice were we to forget that some of the most beautiful scenery on Earth is on our doorstep. The Waverley Council recognised this back in the 1880s, when they built the Bondi Baths at the southern end of Australia's most popular beach. Since 1929, the Baths have been home to the famous Icebergs, the only licensed Winter Swimming Club in the world. To be a member, you must be willing to swim at least one length of the 50m pool on three Sundays out of every month, all winter long. Any attempts at an excuse will only see your membership relinquished. If that’s not quite your style, take a dip at your leisure for $5.50 (adults) / $3.50 (children/Seniors).
Take one of popular culture's biggest supervillains, throw in one of today's very best actors and add the director of The Hangover trilogy. Only a few years ago, the above sentence might've seemed like a joke. Today, it's the reality we're living in — the reality that sees a standalone Joker movie cackling its way towards cinema screens, starring Joaquin Phoenix in the titular role. Move over Cesar Romero, Jack Nicholson, Heath Ledger and Jared Leto — it's Phoenix's time to don exaggerated clown makeup, wield a killer smile and wreak havoc on Gotham City. The just-released first trailer for Joker promises plenty of all three, as failed standup comedian Arthur Fleck turns to a life of facepaint-wearing crime (and eventually obsessing over Batman, we're guessing). As directed and co-written by Todd Phillips (Old School, Starsky & Hutch, Due Date), Joker also comes with a suitably unhinged vibe, as if Phoenix's You Were Never Really Here character stumbled into Martin Scorsese's The King of Comedy. (Fittingly, the latter film plus Taxi Driver and Raging Bull have been cited as inspirations for the new DC Comics flick, and Scorsese is one of Joker's executive producers.) It also looks certain to help everyone forget that the last take on the famous villain only arrived three years ago, because who wants to remember Leto's green-haired turn in Suicide Squad? Here's hoping Phoenix will follow in the footsteps of Nicholson and Oscar-winner Ledger instead, which looks likely based on the footage so far. And, of course, his excellent body of work in general. Robert De Niro, Atlanta's Zazie Beetz and Brian Tyree Henry, and Marc Maron also feature in Joker, with the film hitting cinemas in October. Check out the first trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t433PEQGErc Joker releases in Australian cinemas on October 3, 2019.
Living through bushfires, drought, a pandemic and economic depression — sounds familiar, right? Australian impressionist painter Arthur Streeton might have lived a hundred years ago, but his worldview was impacted by all-too-familiar cycles of environmental, economic and political upheaval. If you don't know much about Streeton, you'll have the opportunity to get to know one of Australia's most loved landscape painters through 150 of his works — including some that haven't been shown since the 1920s — in a new retrospective exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Head curator of Australian art Wayne Tunnicliffe took a deep dive into the Gallery's collection to uncover not only the beloved paintings hanging on the Gallery's walls, but also works within the collection that have been stored away for over 100 years. Born in 1867, Streeton's art practice evolved over six decades. Within the exhibition, you'll see that evolution and an enduring passion for Australia's natural beauty; there are his sun-drenched landscapes from the 1880s, bright, joyful depictions of Sydney Harbour from the 1890s and his bucolic paintings of the 1920s and 30s. [caption id="attachment_784956" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Arthur Streeton, 'From McMahon's Point — fare one penny' (1890), National Gallery of Australia, Canberra[/caption] He painted familiar, and often beautiful, locations in New South Wales, from Coogee and Manly beaches to the Blue Mountains and upper Hawkesbury River. His skill at capturing light, land and sea contributed to Australia's take on impressionism. His peers — artists Tom Roberts and Charles Conder — were part of a new art movement, the Heidelberg School, that was a distinctly Australian take on the global art movement. The exhibition, which runs from November 7–February 14, will feature 150 works from both public and private collections — including paintings, drawings and watercolours. It's the most significant retrospective of Streeton's art ever presented, and includes works from the artist's time in Egypt, England, Italy and in France during the second world war. As well as his final works, which show Streeton's increasing focus on environmental concerns — on his return to Australia, Streeton became more vocal about conservation and exhibiting works showing our destruction to the natural world. Tickets to 'Streeton' cost $22 and you can buy timed-entry tickets online now. If you have already purchased untimed and undated tickets for 'Streeton', your tickets will be honoured for any date and time until February 14, 2021, excluding opening weekend. For $35, you can upgrade to a Gallery Pass, which gives you access to 'Streeton' and the 'Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes 2020'. Top images: 1. Arthur Streeton, 'Early summer – gorse in bloom' (1888), Art Gallery of South Australia, Adelaide, Gift of Mrs Andrew Tennant through the Art Gallery of South Australia Foundation 1982. 2. Arthur Streeton, 'The Land of the Golden Fleece' (1926). Private collection, Sydney. Photo: Jenni Carter, AGNSW.
Sometimes, a bar asks the questions you didn't know you had. When it comes to wild and wonderful margarita flavours, that bar is usually El Camino Cantina. The Tex-Mex chain loves swirling around different kinds ritas, so much so that limited-edition varieties frequently grace its menus — and for three weeks from Monday, July 18–Sunday, August 7, it's giving its signature drinks a Long Island iced tea makeover. What's better than choosing between sipping a margarita or a Long Island iced tea? Drinking a fusion of the two cocktails. That's what's on offer thanks to the brand's Long Island iced tea rita series, and in seven flavours. Yes, as well as splashing together to different kinds of boozy beverages, El Camino Cantina is pouring them in different varieties as well. So, you can choose between cherry, strawberry, passionfruit, mango, lychee, sour melon and lagoon Long Island iced tea ritas. In Sydney, you'll find them tempting your tastebuds as part of the chain's National Tequila Day celebrations in The Rocks, Entertainment Quarter, Manly and Miranda. In an added bonus, there's a limited-edition tacos range to go with them, costing $7–8 each and $2 on Tuesday. Fancy marinated chilli prawns, crispy bacon and cheddar on a taco? Smoked barbecue brisket with coleslaw? Beef mince with pickles, onions, cheese and secret burger sauce? Nacho-crumbed chicken tenderloins with pico de gallo? They're just some of the special options.
Given it has a whopping 26 beaches to its name, you'd be forgiven for thinking Port Stephens is a holiday destination reserved only for the warmer months. Yes, cooler weather may make a lazy day of sunbaking and snorkelling a little less inviting, but you don't need to wait for a heatwave to take that well-deserved break up north. The coastal region has plenty to offer outside of peak season, too. Here are a bunch of activities that'll convince you to visit Port Stephens at any time of year. Please stay up to date with the latest NSW Government health advice regarding COVID-19.
One Drink Jack Nicholson wears sunglasses. Harrison Ford wears an earring. Ellen thanks Seth MacFarlane for setting the bar so low. Winner thanks God or Jesus. Winner pays tribute to the late, great Phillip Seymour Hoffman. Winner commends losing nominees. Winner’s speech is played off by the orchestra. George Clooney says something earnest and/or pulls a “hilarious prank”. Leonardo DiCaprio smiles with an “Another year, another supermodel” look. George or Leo brings his mother as his date (five drinks if they bring each other’s mothers). Matthew McConaughy makes an incomprehensible speech and/or beats his chest in rhythm. Presenter refers to “The McConaissance” Jennifer Lawrence does something adorably “real” (three drinks if it’s a fashion mishap). Michael B. Jordan offers to star in the sequel to Space Jam. Channing Tatum refutes the suggestion that 22 Jump St will be the last in the series because he can’t count any higher. Jennifer Garner reminds us she's married to Ben Affleck who has TWO Oscars. Kevin Spacey refers to that corrupt, pernicious, money-hungry institution ... HOLLYWOOD. Not CONGRESS. HOLLYWOOD! Two Drinks Jack Nicholson wears sunglasses and a hat. Harrison Ford wears an earring and an Indiana Jones hat. Ellen jokes that the show will be longer than the Sochi Games and almost as long as Wolf of Wall Street. Winner thanks Buddha or Ganesh. Winner pays tribute to the late, great James Gandolfini. Winner describes his/her film as “important” Winner describes his/her film’s director as “a genius”. Special effects winner has a ponytail. Brad Pitt says something insightful/poignant, or Angeline Joie says something lighhearted. Jessica Biel says that marrying Justin Timberlake was irrelevant to getting a presenter’s gig. Liam Neeson looks genuinely surprised he wasn’t nominated for anything. Goldie Hawn tells Kate Hudson that she should give Matthew McConaughy a call now that he’s all respectable and accomplished. Anne Hathaway makes a rambling joke about rambling in her acceptance speech last year (three drinks if she also sings). Joaquin Phoenix brings a “Galaxy S5 – new from Samsung!” as his date. Amy Adams says it was awkward to be upstaged by her own cleavage in American Hustle. Kerry Washington mentions the potential for “scandal”. Emma Watson refers to the “magic of filmmaking”. Bendict Cumberbatch, referencing Smaug, is disappointed to be surrounded by golden statues he can’t keep himself. Three Drinks Jack Nicholson wears sunglasses and an Indiana Jones hat. Harrison Ford wears an earring, sunglasses, and an Indiana Jones hat. Ellen conducts a divorce of some of the couples who were married at Grammys but have found marriage to be “overrated”. Winner thanks Allah or Mohammed. Winner pays tribute to the late, great Paul Walker. Losing nominee mouths “fuck” when the winner is announced. Non-human presents an award. Congratulatory kiss or embrace from presenter “gets awkward”. Keanu Reeves throws a tantrum because they are re-making Point Break. Chris Hemsworth says he’s shocked that Liam and Miley’s engagement didn’t work out. Jonah Hill is reminded that he’s a two-time Oscar nominee and chuckles, “Who’s ‘super bad’ now, Michael Cera?” Naomi Watts congratulates Robin Wright on her engagement (five drinks if she also notes that Ben Foster is not quite young enough to be either of their sons). Jared Leto and Lupita Nyong’o win and make out on stage. The Lone Ranger wins for Best Visual Effects and everyone is just confused. Daniel Day-Lewis says he’d give his left foot to have Phillip Seymour Hoffman back. Bill Murray and Dan Aykroyd dress as Ghostbusters to farewell Harold Ramis (five drinks if Ernie Hudson also gets on stage). Jospeh Godon-Levitt or Tyler Perry makes a reference to marriage equality, Jason Collins, Michael Sam, or the Arizona veto. Five Drinks Ellen announces that presenters do not have to hand over awards to any winner who is ... from Arizona. Gravity wins an award and Neil DeGrasse Tyson rushes the stage to protest. John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson take Christoph Waltz hostage, demanding that Quentin Tarantino make them relevant again. “Jackass” and “the Oscar goes to...” are used in the same sentence. Chiwetel Ejiofor or Michael Fassbender notes that it’s a bit weird that the two main actors in a movie about American slavery are English and German.
Dumplings and beer: two things that make us glad to be alive. Brews and piping hot dumplings go together so well, in fact, that Potts Point has an entire restaurant and bar named after the combo. Dumplings and Beer has been doing a roaring trade since opening in late 2014, to the point that even now you may find yourself struggling to get a table without a wait. It's little wonder then that the owners have opened a second store. The second iteration of Dumplings and Beer can be found at 83 Stanley Street in Darlinghurst. Open from noon until 10pm Tuesday through Sunday, the menu at D&B 2.0 is the same as in Potts Point. That means steamed and pan fried dumplings and gluten free gow cee, plus a number of other bites including eggplant and tofu wraps, and crackling pork belly sliders. Of course dumplings are only half of the equation. The drinks list at Dumplings and Beer includes brews from Asia, Europe and right here at home, along with a small selection of Chinese teas.
