#SUMMER-BINGE-FEST - The Mandalorian

Tonight is the night I finally get to see The Rise of Skywalker, the ninth and (maybe) final Star Wars feature film in the saga.

However thanks to the latest streaming service arriving on the scene, Disney+ we now could possibly have the biggest show of summer, The Mandalorian.

The show has gone nuts on social media in respects to Baby Yoda, critics have praised the series whilst it's no surprise the show will return for a second series. Only announced yesterday via the socials, the show should return late 2020. Or in the USA, Fall 2020.

To be honest this show has completely exploded since it's launch in mid November.



Disney+ has some huge profile shows still to come, including more Star Wars related series, Marvel spin off series and even a John Stamos lead series.

I strongly believe with Disney's strong (and popular) back catalogue, newly developed series this is a streaming service with gusto behind it. Netflix watch your back, Foxtel, well I'm not sure how much longer you will remain relevant.

Now to The Mandalorian played by Pedro Pascal (Narcos/Game of Thrones) this could be his role of a lifetime. Whilst (SPOILER ALERT) he remains under a helmet for 99.9% of the time.

Baby Yoda does obviously steal the show, whenever he is on the screen you lose it. He is cute, adorable and honestly an internet sensational.

The show also features an impressive number of actors doing smaller roles. From Ming-Na Wen (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.) to Gina Carano, who completely slays in a couple of episodes.

At only eight episodes (some clocking in at just 30 minutes) the series is all over before you know it.

Other than falling in love with Baby Yoda, this series is perfect for any Star Wars fan, new or old. All perfect timing for Disney with The Rise of Skywalker doing fairly good business at the box office.

Disney are smart, Frozen II, Disney+ and The Rise of Skywalker all arriving around the same time make them the biggest brand in entertainment right now.

Look out other streamers, Disney have big pockets and The Mandalorian looks literally a million bucks in every scene.

This could be my favourite show of Summer 20'. So keep checking in for more #SUMMER-BINGE-FEST pieces. Or click on the links below for recent series posts -

YOU

The Commons

Upright 

The Other Guy

Now lastly be safe tonight for New Years Eve Australian's, the country is basically on fire, RIP to Samuel McPaul. The RFS are doing such an amazing job looking after houses and folks in fire effected areas.

Thank you, it's not enough, but thank you RFS.

Let's hope 2020 is a much better year in a new decade, a decade of action, a decade of change towards a more positive future, be it action on climate change, action on reducing the number of guns in the USA or even just something simple like, people looking up from their phones and being kind to one another.

#RATED

Here is my list and rank of shows I enjoyed over the past three months as part of the 2019-2020 US TV season.

Some network TV (ABC, NBC, The CW etc) included, some subscription based but no streaming titles, those will be ranked in my next Summer viewing TV list -

1. 9-1-1, Season 3
2. The Blacklist, Season 7 
3. Shameless, Season 10 
4. Batwoman, Season 1
5.  Ray Donovan, Season 7 
6. Silicon Valley, Sixth and final season
7. How to Get Away with Murder, Sixth and final season
8. Supergirl, Season 5
9. The Flash, Season 6 
10. Riverdale, Season 4
11. On Becoming a God in Florida, Season 1
12. Black Lightening, Season 3 
13. Empire, Sixth and final season

YOU | Netflix

Season two is streaming now on Netflix. Last season you could see this week to week on Lifetime or stream it all on Netflix in one big binge. Last September is when I first fell for You, season two arrived on Boxing Day, following The Commons on STAN. It's a late streaming Christmas present.

Developed by TV superpower Greg Berlanti (basically does all The CW shows, this show and Blindspot) and Sera Gamble, the second series of You is extremely addictive, with a few new cast members as well as a shift to LA from New York.

The setting change along with some new characters help make this show so easy to watch.



I am desperately hoping the show will return for a third series.Apparently Caroline Kepnes is working on third and fourth novels to help to keep the show alive.

Netflix has had an up and down year, Orange is the New Black concluded after 91 episodes, The OA also concluded after two short seasons and Stranger Things continued to be one of the biggest things on all of the streaming networks combined. So please Netflix give this one another go, please!

I won't give any spoilers here, the show is up now, watch it yourself. However if you click here, there is a super good recap.

You like What/If is one of Netflix's most easy to watch guilty pleasures. I also hope Dirty John (Bravo produced in the USA) is back soon too, it's been over a year!

Cinema Slut #2019 - Portrait of a Lady on Fire

This year's Boxing Day "Blockbusters" are a little lacklustre. Firstly a comedy about Hitler? A reboot sequel of Jumanji and a musical misfire, however there is cheeky French film which has already managed to stand out from the pack.



Portrait of a Lady on Fire is already up for a number of awards, has a 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes whilst reviewers are lapping up this French period drama.

With all this hype, I had to dive in.

On a warm Summer's day in Sydney this was a perfect film to enjoy. Lush French countryside, forbidden affair between an aristocrat and a painter commissioned to paint her portrait and a film not to heavy on the dialogue side.

The scenes are well done with not too much chit chat, the two leads (Noémie Merlant and Adèle Haenel) shine, the passion is real.

This is not widely available so do your research, it may not be at your local Hoyts or Event Cinemas, however look a round and if you can see it, it's well worth the Google.

A great effort by Céline Sciamma. 4 Stars.

On Becoming a God in Central Florida

Streaming now on SBS On Demand, this Showtime series has already been renewed for a second season, could On Becoming a God in Central Florida be the most bat shit crazy comedy of 2019?

Well six episodes in (yes in Australia we are a little delayed, the season concluded in the USA in October) I am never sure exactly what I am watching.

The Kristen Dunst lead, two time Golden Globe nominated series is described as being a story about Krystal Stubbs is a minimum-wage-earning water park employee in Greater Orlando who schemes her way up the ranks of Founders American Merchandise, a cultish, flag waving, multi-billion dollar multi-level marketing / pyramid scheme that drove her family to ruin.

Sounds fun right?

On Becoming a God in Central Florida is a ten episode "comedy" that runs slightly longer than normal Showtime comedy series like SMILF, Black Monday (returning next year) and the one and done White Famous.



Kristen Dunst is an interesting lead, since Hidden Figures I haven't seen her in too much. Also starring in this Showtime series is Gossip front lady, Beth Ditto.

It's great seeing Beth in a very different role, far from being a front lady of a killer group or solo star.

You can check out this series now on SBS On Demand, which really has been hosting some top notch drama if late. Years and Years, The Handmaid's Tale and more.

The Commons (STAN) | Season One

STAN's second Australian programming piece for the 2019/2020 is The Commons. Following the brilliant second season of The Other Guy, comes an environmental drama this time around.

This is a very different beast to The Other Guy, landing on Christmas Day this show came at the perfect streaming time.

Since I smashed The Other Guy in less than a weekend, let's see how fast I can get through this series.

There is eight episodes in total, I currently half way through episode three. My opinion is not 100% made up yet for this new series.

STAN has honestly delivered some seriously good original programming thus far. Wolf Creek last two seasons, it could have got a third however John Jarrett's personal life may have put an end to that. Romper Stomper was outstanding, I wish a second season would have been on the cards, however since airing almost two years ago on New Year's Day, I think I am outta luck.

A second season however was approved for Logies hit Bloom. The six episode first season aired on New Year's Day 2019 and was an instant hit. With a great cast on board (Bryan Brown, Jacki Weaver, Phoebe Tonkin, and Ryan Corr (also starring in The Commons) this always had a good shot at a second season.

This New Year's Day we will get another Tasmanian mystery, The Gloaming.

I for one really rate STAN, my own criticism is that Summer/Festive holidays are few and far between. If their only new Australian content is released around Christmas/New Year's each day it leaves them without much new content throughout the long calendar year.

With international shows like Power and Will & Grace concluding in 2020 STAN needs as much content as possible with Disney + and Apple TV + now also in the crowded streaming market.

Power has been a HUGE hit for STAN and has a large following, a spin off (starring Mary J Blige) is apparently in the works, however this will be a while off.

For now, The Commons is currently streaming, I may offer another report on the show coming soon over this Summer slack period.

Happy 2020 dear readers!

Best Movies of 2019

BEST hyped films of 2019 - Joker

BEST jump out of the seat films - Crawl

BEST Teen drama/coming of age/comedy blah - Good Boys

BEST films of 2019 - Parasite // Joker

BEST small (budget) film - 47 Meters Down: Uncaged, Parasite, according to Wikipedia budget was $11 million (US), versus the 47 Metres Down sequel at $12 million, however a shark film needed a mention too.

BEST Aussie Movie - Top End Wedding

BEST Music film - Rocketman

BEST controversial film of 2019 - The Australian Dream

BEST Drama - The Farewell

December Comedies on Netflix

In the lead up to Christmas what else do we need? Comedy. Yes, when people at the shops/streets have their settings to full blown thunder cunt mode, one needs a good comedy on their chosen streaming service.

Netflix has loaded two stand up specials, one Michelle Wolf (yes the Correspondence Dinner Michelle Wolf) and Ronny Chieng.

Michelle Wolf's December special is Joke Show, the follow up to the 2017 stand up special Nice Lady.

Ronny Chieng (who I have been lucky enough to see in Parramatta (of all places) a few years back) has his special Asian Comedian Destroys America!.

Following his ABC show Ronny Chieng: International Student, his work on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, not to mention his appearance in the brilliant Crazy Rich Asians.

Ronny has come a long way since his work in Australia. He is an outstanding performer and since I have meet him, he is super friendly in real life too.

Ronny you my friend are a legend, this latest special is also perfect for pre-Christmas stress relief. Michelle, I want to meet you, I loved a Nice Lady, I really enjoyed Joke Show too, so thank you both. As Sydney/most of Australia burns, you my friends have given us real joy.

Comedy is such a treat, Netflix, Stan, Disney+, Apple+, Amazon Prime can you please give us more comedy, please?

Here are the trailers for each of these new shows.

Upright | Season One

I have never been a huge fan of Tim Minchin, however in this Foxtel drama playing Lucky Flynn, Minchin is rather enjoyable. Heather Mitchell as his mother is heavenly whilst Milly Alcock as Meg, what a great new talent!

Screening/streaming now on Foxtel's Showcase channel or on one of their platforms the show also airs on Sky Atlantic in the United Kingdom. Nice for the UK to see another side of Australia.

Upright follows the story of two misfits, Lucky and Meg, who are thrown together by chance in the middle of the Australian desert.

The eight part series is written by Chris Taylor from the Chaser with each episode being less than 30 minutes. Perfect summer viewing.

With a talented cast and creative team, Upright is the perfect way for Australian drama to conclude in 2019.

It's been a big year for Aussie drama with Foxtel and ABC again leading the way. Foxtel have done very well with Lambs of God, Secret City : Under the Eagle, Wentworth, Mr Inbetween (FX co-production) and now Upright concluding a great year.



Heres to more Australian drama in 2020.

Cinema Slut #2019 - The Good Liar

With a couple of Disney blockbusters on at present it's nice to take a look at something different. Last night I took in The Good Liar.



Helen Mirren is fantastic in this good old fashioned crime thriller. Alongside Mirren is the wonderful Ian McKellen. Also joining the cast is popular Brit Russell Tovey, again playing a happily married gay man. Type cast much?

The Good Liar has received mixed reviews, however I really enjoyed the classy acting, the plot twists and turns, not to mention an alternative from the school holidays films currently showing.

Mirren is up for a Satellite award for her acting in this tasty feature film, so if you can find a screening this hot weekend, go take a look.

The Good Liar is a bit of fun, 3 Stars.

Post #201 for 2019

201 posts thus far this year, from movie reviews to TV news, holiday posts or even the odd random update, we have come a long way in 2019.

So as another year comes to a close, let's take a look and some of the random stuff on my YouTube feed. If ever in doubt for content to watch or what next to see at the cinema, get onto the YouTube to keep informed...

Cinema Slut #2019 - The Gentlemen (Advanced Screening)

Hitting the screens on New Years Day in Australia is the latest Guy Ritchie film, The Gentlemen. However I didn't know gentlemen used the cunt word so much?

Anyway yes there is a lot of bad language in this feature film, which is a good thing if you are me.

The cast is amazing Matthew McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, Henry Golding, Michelle Dockery, Jeremy Strong, Eddie Marsan, Colin Farrell and Hugh Grant.



The Gentlemen is an interesting crime film mixed with some comedy along the way. Hugh Grant is also one of the funniest in the film.

Charlie Hunnam has grown out of his Sons of Anarchy days in this film, looking fancy but also fierce.

I won't spoil too much of the film since it's not out for a few weeks, however if you are over all the Disney shit on at the cinema at present, this will be one for you.

3 Stars.

Cinema Slut #2019 - Knives Out

Finally I got to see Knives Out! After a short vacation to Thailand (officially my favourite travel destination) it was time to settle down to a little old school murder mystery. Whodunnit's were my favourite growing up. I grew up with the movie version of the board game Cluedo whilst loving anything else I could get my hands on in the genre.

Knives Out features a stellar cast, a difficult family and a very interesting Daniel Craig.

Also starring is Jamie Lee Curtis (who is slaying in 2019), Toni Collette, Chris Evans, Don Johnson,
Ana de Armas, Michael Shannon, , Lakeith Stanfield, Katherine Langford, Jaeden Martell, and Christopher Plummer.

This cast is hands down one of the best ensembles of 2019!



Being a murder mystery, other than the trailer above I will give no clues as to what the hell happens in this film.

And let me tell you, a lot happens. It's political but not too much like the previous horrific Black Christmas (which is now receiving it's well deserved bad reviews) with references to alt right trolls and red caps.

Knives Out is the movie 2019 needs, Benoit Blanc the private detective played by Craig may return in future stories. So not a direct sequel but rather a continuation on an interesting character played by Bond, I mean Daniel Craig.

If you like murder mysteries and messed up families this is 100% for you. It beats all the other school holiday nonsense currently screening. Knives Out rates a solid 3.5 Stars.

The Other Guy (STAN) | Season Two

Well it was only released yesterday, however I have smashed the whole season already. I watched season one back in 2017, around the same time of the year.

This show is so interesting, between friendships, family and relationships the show shines the spotlight on some tough issues.

Claudia Karvan is a marvellous addition as Miranda, TV exec. Harriet Dyer does steal the scene in almost every scene she is in, whilst Matt Okine is just heaven.

I enjoyed all six episodes, the season was literally one of the easiest watches of 2019. It's so great seeing Stan launch a range of new local series this summer break.

If you are looking for a half an hour comedy with real heart, give this one a go. I posted the trailer last month but here it is again. give season one a crack first but all in all so far The Other Guy is 12 episodes of 30's something fun.

Cinema Slut #2019 - Black Christmas

Arriving just in time for Friday the 13th and Christmas (double whammy - yay!) it's Black Christmas the 2019 version of the 1974 Canadian film. And oh boy does it suck!



Like literally I was so excited for this film, but man it blows! It could be the first Blumhouse Productions film which is totally shit!

It tries to make a slasher horror movie into a whole #METOO thing, it fails.

The violence has been edited (or just left out) to achieve a PG-13 rating for the USA market. OK team, it's a horror movie, it needs some violence!

This was real bad and I mean bad, I went in thinking no supernatural bullshit just a straight up slasher film, no it gets weird and even the two girls in front of me thought this was lame AF.

It's not just a male thing, this film is just utter garbage, which is a shame, it does touch on really important issues, however horror films are not the forum for this.

This could possibly be the most disappointing film of 2019, not every film or show needs to be political Hollywood, this just turns the far right more against your cause.

Maybe my first one star film of 2019, for better films, I will post my Best Films of 2019 on Boxing Day.

Back Christmas rates, 1 lonely star.

Golden Globes TV 2020 Nominations | Predictions

My predictions in bold and red (as usual, if you are a regular reader):

Best Television Series – Drama

Big Little Lies (HBO)
The Crown (Netflix)
Killing Eve (BBC America)
The Morning Show (Apple TV+)
Succession (HBO)

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series – Drama

Jennifer Aniston (The Morning Show)
Olivia Colman (The Crown)
Jodie Comer (Killing Eve)
Nicole Kidman (Big Little Lies)
Reese Witherspoon (The Morning Show)

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series – Drama

Brian Cox (Succession)
Kit Harington (Game of Thrones)
Rami Malek (Mr. Robot)
Tobias Menzies (The Crown)
Billy Porter (Pose)

Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy

Barry (HBO)
Fleabag (Amazon)
The Kominsky Method (Netflix)
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (Amazon)
The Politician (Netflix)

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy

Christina Applegate (Dead to Me)
Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel)
Kirsten Dunst (On Becoming a God in Central Florida)
Natasha Lyonne (Russian Doll)
Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag)

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy

Michael Douglas (The Kominsky Method)
Bill Hader (Barry)
Ben Platt (The Politician)
Paul Rudd (Living with Yourself)
Ramy Youssef (Ramy)

Best Television Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Catch-22 (Hulu)
Chernobyl (HBO)
Fosse/Verdon (FX)
The Loudest Voice (Showtime)
Unbelievable (Netflix)

Best Performance by an Actress in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Kaitlyn Dever (Unbelievable)
Joey King (The Act)
Helen Mirren (Catherine the Great)
Merritt Wever (Unbelievable)
Michelle Williams (Fosse/Verdon)

Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Christopher Abbott (Catch-22)
Sacha Baron Cohen (The Spy)
Russell Crowe (The Loudest Voice)
Jared Harris (Chernobyl)
Sam Rockwell (Fosse/Verdon)

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Series, Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Patricia Arquette (The Act)
Helena Bonham Carter (The Crown)
Toni Collette (Unbelievable)
Meryl Streep (Big Little Lies)
Emily Watson (Chernobyl)

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Series, Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Alan Arkin (The Kominsky Method)
Kieran Culkin (Succession)
Andrew Scott (Fleabag)
Stellan Skarsgård (Chernobyl)
Henry Winkler (Barry)

Last Day in Paradise :(

Sad to be leaving wonderful Thailand tomorrow, it's been amazing and Khoa Lak is definitely somewhere I want to return to. It's beautiful, the folks at the hotel are so friendly, the food is amazing. It's all too amazing!

Cinema Slut 2019 (Phuket Edition)

Tootsies & The Fake is described as "make way! 3 tootsies, 1 lesbian and an A-list superstar are coming! Get ready for their new adventures", well this sounds like fun!



I have enjoyed over the past year or so a Korean film or two, so to step into Thai cinema was a whole new exciting experience for little old me!

Now I have seen a number of camp films in the past, but this my friends took the cake. Not to mention the opening scene makes the Brazilian BBQ scene on Bridesmaids look tame. Wait for it. Well you don't have to wait long, it's the opening scene.

So I am loving Phuket, loving Thai hospitality, so I am sad to say I am leaving the below beautiful beach early next week. Sad face.

However happy face for this film, it's camp over the top and laugh out loud funny in parts. Not to mention the entire (mostly) Thai crowd were getting into this film at my session. 3.5 unique stars for my first Thai film.

Beach Life

Heaven...

Summer Days in Phuket

It's officially Summer back in Australia even though the bushfires have started, the carparks at shopping centres are filling up and people are on edge or hangover re: their respective Christmas parties.

Meanwhile I have my feet up in Phuket, Thailand and wish I had done the entire Eat, Pray, Love whole of December out of Australia.

The Thai people never cease to amaze me with their friendly attitude and willingness to help visitors to their beautiful country.

At the hotel I am staying in we have two women at the dining locations who get so excited each morning to see us at the breakfast buffet, another soy latte ka? Can I get you anything ka? How did you sleep ka? How was the night markets ka? They are interested in you and your wellbeing.

It's refreshing after leaving Sydney behind, a city so happy to boost it's harbour, beautiful beaches whilst neglecting to mention how uncultured and vile the rats race has become. I long to leave Sydney, however the jobs market is too good, my gym is sublime and in the middle of all the cunty behaviour I do have a number of places that feel like home.

A cafe in the morning where they sing my name and instantly make me the best soy latte in town, a gym where all members and staff are heaven not to mention an eight minute walk to work.

I am very lucky, I am blessed and I will in 2020 try my hardest to avoid some of the toxic elements of Sydney. It's a beautiful city, it's just sometimes with beauty comes a real lack of substance.

Our main lacking substance is culture, a vibrant city, a well planned city, a city like Bangkok which is just so alive. The people eat later, the shops are always open, the city is a place of excitement. The Sydney CBD is a wasteland outside 9-5pm hours. People rush back to the suburbs to watch Sky News after dark and complain about the long commute times.

Sydney we can do better, let's do this in 2020, the world is a small place, people are taking note that our city whilst beautiful is no longer vibrant, it's dull, the music scene is dead, the food scene is fine if it's before 8pm.

2020, I can feel it's going to be a way better year than 2019.

In Flight Movies + Cinema Slut 2019 (Bangkok Edition)

Day time flights are interesting, you are well rested, not super interested in eating as you ate at home, however you still sleep and make a pig of yourself. However why not skip the sleeping and catch the latest and greatest entertainment Qantas (my airline to Bangers) has to offer.

I am lucky to be travelling over two months, just. Departing on the last day of November and returning mid December I get two batches of entertainment. I have to give Qantas props, the November entertainment was stellar. Here are the three films I watched and a brief review and I mean brief.

Following the three in flight films is the movie I missed in Sydney, so as I treat I went to the Siam cinemas to check out, 21 BRIDGES, review and trailer below.

First up it's, BOOKSMART. I missed this in Sydney when it was playing at the cinema. It had a super short run and was mainly playing at the Dendy and smaller cinemas. Booksmart is like a girl version of any guy sex coming of age comedy, you know how much I love these, remember Good Boys!


Olivia Wilde makes her directing debut whilst Beanie Feldstein and Kaitlyn Dever shine as the two leads. I also have to say it for me has been the year of Billie Lourd, she was one of the best things in the latest American Horror Story: 1984, in Booksmart she continues to shine bright like a diamond.

Booksmart is fun, warm whilst showing the challenges of growing up smart and some what different. It's an easy, funny watch. Check it out on your next flight or no doubt it will be streaming somewhere, soon.

Next up, I have to also give Qantas love for showcasing a number of new Australian films. Like Booksmart, THE NIGHTENGALE had a select run (and I mean select) when it was playing on the big screen.


You can't expect great results for Aussie movies if they play just at the Dendy in Newtown. I live in Sydney CBD and have to say, if I live in the city and don't have access to local stories, what hope do folks in regional Australia have. I mean those so called "Quiet Australians".

Game of Thrones star Aisling Franciosi plays the lead on a tale of revenge and retribution. Joining her on her journey across Tassie is Billy played by Baykali Ganambarr. The film has a few international stars, it looks amazing and Tasmania is really starting to shine on the big and small screen.

The film is nominated for a pile and I mean most of the 9th AACTA Awards, held this week! Looks it's violent and brutal in parts but overall a wonderful, mostly well received film. Well done all involved and good luck this week at the awards ceremony.

Let's get this out first, I don't usually like Keira Knightley, however as whistleblower Katharine Gun I was sold. OFFICAL SECRETS is actually playing in some Australian cinemas now and is well worth a look. The cast is solid, the story has never been more current, look at Australian press, they are almost as much of an enemy as CNN and the Fake News in the USA.


You don't need to see this on the big screen but it does make for a fast paced, exciting watch. Keira Knightly I might turn and be a fan one of these days after all!

Now to my last film and my one cinema experience, 21 BRIDGES. Following his success as Black Panther Chadwick Boseman stars as a cop on a mission, a brutal mission, a super fast paced mission. Film makers take note, Brian Kirk does a wonderful job getting this film below two hours, full of action and twists, whilst under that two hour mark.


I enjoyed this film, it was violent, interesting and a different kind of action/thriller. 2019 has spat out some by the numbers films, this despite having numbers in it's title is not one of them.

I was compelled the entire 110 minutes, you think you are at the end of the ride, then bam, something else comes out at y'all.

Now this is screening again in limited release back home, interestingly Last Christmas has not yet opened here in Bangkok, instead they have a Thai film about the Cave rescue, man they got that out fast!

Frozen II is clearly going to dominate the cinema over the next few weeks until Disney drop another box office giant, Star Wars. Therefore I will aim to bring you reviews of the biggest and non Disney feature films.

21 Bridges gets a solid 4 Stars, ignore the critics on this one. Not me, the paid ones...

Christmas in Bangkok, now that is a tree!

Plus some highlights from breakfast, yum!

Thailand Tomorrow...

Blog goes Travel mode again, YASSSSSSSS

Secret Bridesmaids' Business

Australian drama has had an interesting year, with highlights like Wentworth's brilliant seventh season, Total Control on the ABC and Foxtel's co pro with the US network FX Mr Inbetween.

Whilst unfortunately for Seven Ms Fisher's Modern Murder Mysteries was a bit of a miss, whilst long running Home and Away wraps for another year this week.

Channel Ten had mixed fortunes whilst launching a spin off of Neighbours on their streaming platform.

Australian drama will also see Nine's streaming service Stan launch a fairly decent summer offering whilst renewing Bloom for a second outing following a big night at this year's Logies.

Now to Secret Bridesmaids' Business on Seven, one of the other few Australian dramas on the former number one network.



It's been a tough year for Seven with MKR not firing as well as it should, Channel Nine having all the reality hits and even Channel Ten has started to have some luck with decent new reality offerings like the Masked Singer.

Whilst on paper with a cast like Abbie Cornish as Melanie Heyward, Supergirl's Katie McGrath as Saskia de Merindol and Dan Spielman as Michael Heyward you would think this had hit written all over it.

Unfortunately not. With an awkward one episode each night for three nights September 29,30 and October 1st, then a week till the next episode, the series really suffered from over exposure, then back to a more regular weekly schedule.

The story itself is fine, stalker, relationship breakdowns however the series just felt it was lacking something. Like at the movies yesterday (Charlie's Angels, see review below) there was just something not right. Even Elizabeth Banks has admitted now (via Twitter, as you do) the reboot was a bit of a misfire. Good thing she stars in it, wrote parts, produced it and directed it. Damn that is four strikes.

Secret Bridesmaids' Business is streaming now on the Channel Seven streaming app 7plus. It's an easy Summer series watch of six episodes with a few embedded ad's in there for good measure. At present 80% of the ad's are for Apple+ TV series, which is weird to send people to another streaming service other than your own.

Cinema Slut #2019 - Charlie's Angels

Reboot, re-working, the Elizabeth Banks version, what is with Charlie's Angels the 2019 version?



With a cracking soundtrack fronted by Ariana Grande, Miley Cyrus, and Lana Del Rey's Don't Call Me Angel. I found it strange a song with Ariana, Miley and Lana Del Rey? A very interesting mix. Anyway the music is one of the best things about this latest version of Charlie's Angels.

In 2000 and 2003 we had the Barrymore, Liu and Diaz Angels now we have resident sourpuss Kristen Stewart joining Naomi Scott, and Ella Balinska.

Stewart honestly looks grumpy for 80% of the film, even when there is a wonderful dance sequence to a remix of Donna Summer's hit, Bad Girls.

Australian Chris Pang joins the cast alongside Patrick Stewart and producer and director Elizabeth Banks.

This film aims high, looks to set up a sequel, whilst struggling with poor reviews and facing stiff competition next week with the release of Frozen 2.

In a world of #Metoo and two camps of people, either progressive or conservative/conspiracy theory fans, this movie will clearly only appeal to one camp.

I enjoyed the action sequences, they were fun, the dance sequence, fantastic, however the dialogue and attempted humour was slightly off. The gaps between action and plot holes were a bit tough to watch at times, however it's another 2019 leave your brain at the door, eat the popcorn whilst forgetting the film once you leave the shopping centre carpark.

2019 has been a strange year for films, it appears we are struggling with original content. This is pure escapism and not much else, 2.5 passable stars.

When They See Us

Highly regarded Netflix mini series landed back on May 31st, however I have just jumped in and binged all four episodes back to back.

Based on the Central Park Five and with Oprah on the producing team, this has already won a couple of Emmy's and had the critics in raptures.

When They See Us is a must see, it's heartbreaking, tough at times to watch, however it is a great story. Following Making a Murderer (also on Netflix) you really have to question the US legal system.

There is loads of information about the Central Park Five online, so I had a bit of an idea of the plot before I jumped in. Yusef Salaam, Raymond Santana, Kevin Richardson, Antron McCray and Korey Wise had a seriously rough time, they all were in prison for various amounts of time. All were changed for life following the Central Park jogger case.



With an all star cast and 23 million (reported) views from Netflix within the first month, When They See Us is a bonafide Netflix success.

Now there are so many options when it comes to streaming and content, it's hard to find the good from the bad, When They See Us is beyond good, it's great!

RnB Friday's 2019

Full review on my other blog HERE, some fun photos right here! Coming up later this month, I'll flick over to a travel blog again, yes Thailand here I come!!!

Years and Years

Could this be the mini series of 2019? BBC One's Years and Years is the perfect futurist drama for 2019, the year where the UK is lead by Trump light Boris, Australia by ScoMo and the USA by Trump/Pence.

A large part of Australia is on fire, California had massive wildfires, the Amazon was on fire, Italy and parts of the UK are under water and November in NSW already is an extension of a long ass summer.

So is Years and Years an indication of where the West is headed? Yes and yes.

Brilliantly created by Queer as Folk creator Russell T Davies with the IT gay character actor Russell Tovey and the marvellous Emma Thompson, this mini series has it all.

Family breakdowns, marriage/love, technology, trauma in the future all play out over six fantastic episodes.

This is must see TV, airing in the UK on the BBC, USA on HBO and right here on Australia now on the premium SBS on Demand app.

Please I urge you to give this a look, perfect summer time viewing!

Cinema Slut #2019 - Judy

Could there be a better Sunday morning matinee movie? Judy is a true (heartbreaking) story of child actor/singer turned musical superstar who had one hell of a tough last year, that year is the subject of the film Judy.

Based on the play End of the Rainbow, Renée Zellweger shines as Judy. Following her efforts in the truly trashy Netflix series What/If this is a return to serious acting for Zellweger. At 50 Zellweger has already outlived Judy who dies in England aged 47.

I wasn't super keen on seeing this film until a co-worker really sold it to me, and at the end credits I was so happy I was advised to see this sad tale of fame and isolation.



Like more modern tales like Amy Winehouse, Kurt Cobain and Jeff Buckley, fame does not equal a long happy life.

Amy Winehouse had an awful time, whilst Garland was not as well known for her drinking and pill popping, it was her inability to eat, being forced from a young age to suppress her hunger and take pills to calm her down plus sleep.

Judy was brilliantly shot and well acted, following his small role in the latest American Horror Story Finn Wittrock was equally good as Garland's 5th husband Mickey Deans.

Judy is well worth a look, heartbreaking, brilliantly acted, Zellweger is unrecognisable as Garland but oh so convincing. The touching scene between two fans and Garland in their home after a show was one of my favourite scenes from a film this year.

It'll be done at the cinemas real soon as we make way for Frozen II, 4 Stars.

American Horror Story Season Nine Concludes..

American Horror Story: 1984 is an ode to the 80's, the fashion, the music, Billy Idol even aerobics!

In it's 9th season American Horror Story excluded long term cast Evan Peters and Sarah Paulson but added Matthew Morrison (Glee), Angelica Ross (Pose) and Gus Kenworthy.

Season nine also marked the shortest number of episodes, in line with the season number, nine. The season for me started out strong with a killer on the loose slasher horror style at a summer camp, however once ghosts (sorry - spoiler alert) became one of the main themes, the storylines started to lose me.

The aerobics in the first two episodes (mainly featured and lead by Billie Lourd) really was next level, loved it sick! However when we were just left with a crazy ass summer camp, it lost me a little.

With a super hot cast including some new comers there was fresh life in the latest season, not to mention less politics than season seven, Cult. DeRon Horton from Dear White People was also a fantastic addition to the cast.

Check out some of the aerobics below, if you have Foxtel (in Australia) give the season a go, it's free from filler episodes like previous seasons, therefor not overstaying it's welcome.

Season nine is a fun, camp look back at the 80's, of course with a touch of blood and gore. Where will American Horror Story travel in 2020? Season 10 is set to be big with plenty of earlier season favourites return, stay on the internet for more gossip as it lands!

Cinema Slut #2019 - Terminator: Dark Fate

Arnie is back as is James Cameron as they once again try and resurrect the Terminator franchise. So it looks like another trilogy was planned with Cameron back on board... however this film has been an international box office bomb, so apparently that is off the cards.

The cast in this sixth installment on Terminator on the big screen sees Linda Hamilton and Arnold Schwarzenegger return. Whilst newcomers Mackenzie Davis and Natalia Reyes are welcome additions to the film.

Gabriel Luna and Diego Boneta are as good looking as ever however they alone can not save this film.



Ticking all action film boxes, a car chase, a big bad guy set up finale, fancy CGI, on a scale of action films it's fine, however it's not breaking any new ground on a well told story. We all know Sarah Connor (although she swears more in this film than in any other I can remember), she even got her own TV show a few years back.

So this reboots the whole franchise back to the original film and Terminator 2: Judgement Day. This allows Cameron to forgot some of the worst parts of recent films Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003), Terminator Salvation (2009) and Terminator Genisys (2015).

For a super hot Spring day, this was a fine film, it was a popcorn film at best with big action sequences, so I will pass this bad boy at 2.5 Stars.

The Other Guy

The Other Guy is coming to Stan to get some more Aussie content on one of the top streaming services in Australia.

Since leaving Triple J breakfast Matt Okine has been busy with comedy as well as getting the second series of The Other Guy set to screen on December 13.

The first season of the show landed all the way back in winter 2017, so it's been a wee wait. Good news though Claudia Karvan joins the cast for season two!

I for one am excited about the show is returning, in coming weeks more Australian TV coverage as we head into those super warm months. Air con, check, Stan subscription, check, snacks, check, Summer 2019/2020 is almost here!

Cinema Slut #2019 - Last Christmas

Paul Feig has been behind some of my favourite films of recent times, Bridesmaids, The Heat and Spy, although of late he has had a couple of misses, that Ghostbusters reboot and A Simple Favor. I liked A Simple Favor and it did do well at the box office, however nowhere near as well as Bridesmaids.

From A Simple Favor Henry Golding returns to star in this film. Alongside Golding is Game of Thrones mega star Emilia Clarke, again looking different.

Michelle Yeoh is also fantastic as Santa whilst Emma Thompson feels a little forced as Petra. That said I am obsessed with Thompson in Years & Years, more on that soon.



Now for readers of this blog they will not be surprised to learn I don't love Christmas. To have Christmas decorations up on November 1st, Tuggerah Westfield I am looking at you, this is a cheap ploy to get folks to spend more money they may not have.

That aside Last Christmas is not really about Christmas but the famous song by Wham. If you know the lyrics well there is a big clue to the sort of twist in this story.

The film however is a nice warm film, it's full of ooooohhhhhhh moments, Clarke is delightful and can hold a tune whilst Golding is a great leading man and should be cast in more films, ASAP!

This will not be Feig's legacy, that will most likely always be Bridesmaids, however this is fun, 3 Stars.

Cinema Slut #2019 - 47 Meters Down: Uncaged

If you have read this blog for a while or read any of my movie reviews, you will know by now I a) like movies and b) love to be scared shitless by a shark film.

I missed 47 Meters Down at the cinema, however I did race off to see the wonderful Meg opening day or week, either one.

The 47 Meters Down movies have now taken over $100 million dollars worldwide, for much, much smaller budgets! So how does the Uncaged film fair?



There are some celebrity kids cast in this Mexican shark fest and man are they ready to get used for shark bait.

Unlike the first film with Mandy Moore, this is way more of an adventure/blended family love fest. The adventure is the scuba diving through the hidden Mayan city, the love fest is between the blended family step sisters Mia (Sophie Nélisse) and Sasha (Corinne Foxx). Foxx is Jamie Foxx's daughters, whilst Nicole played by Sistine Stallone is clearly Sly Stallone AKA Rambo's daughter.

47 Meters Down: Uncaged scared me in parts, but also had me rooting for the girls to survive, it's fairly predictable (mainly the order of deaths) with a big ending.

I reckon they are on the money with this series and we may see a third film in the series. I enjoyed this film, however full disclosure I did have a free ticket courtesy of a cinema loyalty program.

This won't be around on the big screen for much longer Sydney siders so get in soon or you'll miss it, 3 Stars.

The Affair Ends...

Since October, 2014 we have watched Noah and Helen have affairs, relationships and try to keep it together with their kids, lead by young Whitney.

Whitney in the finale finally had her wedding day after some drama along the way, whilst Anna Paquin as Joanie Lockhart finally got her peace, well in the future.

The finale was done mostly well with future sequences, present moments at Whitney's wedding and one final Solloway family fight.

The show has been filled with fights, drama and sex, season five however dropped the sex whilst ramped up the fights.

I must say from season four to five and the drastic lose of main characters (mainly Cole and Alison) the show felt a little half cooked at times, it just felt a little like the Noah and Helen show.

Whilst the show did mainly start off as the Noah and Helen show, it kind of just left off Alison and Cole's main roles in earlier seasons. Through Joanie however we discovered both in fact had died. Making this all the more easier to wrap things up neatly.

By adding Joanie to the show through a time jump, it allowed loose ends to be easily tied up. The perspectives seemed a little lost when we were only getting Noah and Helens while Joanie lived in some future world with fancy tech and a declining environment.

The Affair has been a wonderful addition to Showtime's line up, it started out smart, however it did in the middle become more of a soap.

I will miss the show, however I think it could have ended with less drama and more followers at the end of season four.

When shows drag on for too long, only true fans remain to the bitter end. Showtime will also kiss goodbye the long running Homeland early in 2020. Ray Donovan and Shameless returns this month, both have been on for many seasons, so will we see the last of Ray and the Gallaghers?

The Affair is streaming in Australia now on Foxtel...

Cinema Slut #2019 - Gemini Man

I wasn't super keen on seeing the latest Will Smith film after the misfire of Aladdin remake, Collateral Beauty and his rather average role in Suicide Squad.

Apparently this film was in development for 20 years, how far CGI has come though in those 20 years. Directed by over hyped director Ang Lee this really is an average action film for a budget of over a $130 million and apparently 20 years of work.

The action sequences are fun but some of the dialogue is flat out woeful.



Will Smith is at a crossroad in his career, continue to make average, poorly reviewed films or give up with some good memories of him singing about the Men in Black or a Fresh Prince somewhere in America.

I can't be all negative it does look a million bucks whilst travelling various parts of the world.

Will Smith is handsome and at 51 (a joke well versed in the film) is in damn fine condition, however I just want more for him. He had a legacy, now he is the kind of guy movie studios, hope and/or pray his name will be enough to assist breaking even some very ordinary films.

Unfortunately in 2019 if it's not a comic book film, action reboot or something we have all seen before, it's just not going to go very far.

Gemini Man has it's moments, the de-aging of Smith was clever, however not clever enough to standout as a top action film of 2019.

2.5 Stars.

Total Control

ABC is hot on the heels of drama kings in Australia Foxtel with the latest series to put the drama back in Sunday nights, Total Control. Three out of six episodes in and I am hooked! Deborah Mailman and Rachel Griffiths shine in this part ACT, part QLD based series.

The show has received major critical acclaim, not to mention it's rating fairly damn well!



This show is exceptional and deserves any accolades that come it's way. Please ABC give us a second season, please? Here is Mailman talking to 7:30 about her latest role.



Total Control episodes one through three are streaming now on iView, whilst episode four airs tonight, with the season finale airing Sunday 17 November.

Dog Dayz

What better why to celebrate hump day than a couple of doggies having a doggie play date. Oh Maverick and Chico! Happy hump day y'all.

Cinema Slut #2019 - Doctor Sleep

Doctor Sleep is one long ass movie, however it is also one damn fine movie. It's been a big year for Stephen King, with It Chapter 2 and Pet Sematary both getting cinema releases.

The Stand (starring Whoopi Goldberg) will also get a release on CBS streaming service CBS All Access (Ten All Access in Australia) giving Stephen King another outlet to bring his terror to viewers worldwide.



Ewan McGregor is awesome as Dan Torrance, whilst Rebecca Ferguson as Rose the Hat is exceptionally evil and Kyliegh Curran as Abra Stone is great.

Doctor Sleep is due for release on Thursday 7 November, so I was lucky enough to see a super early preview.

I don't won't to give to much away, unless you have read the book and know how it all goes down anyway.

Doctor Sleep continues the year of horror that is 2019, what a year for Stephen King, 3.5 Stars.

(Mini) Monday Spotlight: Mosquito Coast

Naomi Robinson and Conor Barton make up Perth's Mosquito Coast, they have also just released their debut record, Kisses.

After winning Unearthed High in 2015 the Perth duo have done a lot of growing up. After releasing some real dream pop over the years we finally get a full length record from the pair.

You can check out, stream or even download some of their earlier hits on their Unearthed page HERE, you're welcome by the way.

OK well this actually marks the final (Mini) Monday Spotlight (formerly (Mini) Sunday Spotlight) for 2019. Never fear I still have loads of film reviews, TV reviews/news and gossip and general posts. For more music though my other blog, Flashing off the Record updates most days.

So as I usually wrap these posts, why not discover (or rediscover) your new favourite act, Mosquito Coast are damn fine and growing into a real Aussie power duo. Keep up the great work crew! Until 2020 when I bring you more brilliant new acts weekly (from late January or early February) take care new music lovers.

Cinema Slut #2019 - Joker (Take Two)

Racing towards $800 million at the box office, Joker is breaking all sorts of records. One personal record for me is the only film I have seen twice in 2019. First review here from early October.

I gave it four stars back in early October, however I enjoyed this more the second time. Joaquin Phoenix is totally in the running for all sorts of awards, he kills it as Joker.



I am actually going to mark this film up to 4.5 Stars this time around, why you ask?

1. It totally makes for a do-over for comic book films.
2. It makes a villain's back story so much more interesting than just another Batman bad guy.
3. The Batman tie in's are done so well and not in an obvious manner.
4. Is there a chance we can have a dark Catwoman (the character needs a major remix after the Halle Berry film)?

Joker is still playing, completely slaying what competition is currently out at the box office, honestly right now it is simply the best film playing. Check it out now, it's a total big screen must see!

Cinema Slut #2019 - Zombieland: Double Tap

Does it help if you saw the first Zombieland film? Dunno cause I went into this film, my second in two days without seeing the first film which was released all the way back in 2009....

With an all star cast featuring Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Abigail Breslin, and Emma Stone this film makes fun of The Walking Dead, life in the White House and hippies, all valid targets.

Avan Jogia is also great as a hippie called Berkeley, I really liked him in the now cancelled series Now Apocalypse. I am always sad when one and done series just come and go whilst shows like Empire, How to Get Away with Murder and more drag on for six seasons, filled with filler episodes and dull cast members/storylines.



Anyway does the word need more Zombie films or TV? No as The Walking Dead will soon release their third (and most likely) tiresome series which looks like The Walking Dead: Millennials edition from the trailer.

The laughs in this are worth the cost of admission, Emma Stone is finally starting to redeem herself, whilst Luke Wilson is not as annoying as previous roles.

Rosario Dawson also continues to kick ass despite the fact all her Marvel Claire Temple days are well and truly over. Speaking of over Thomas Middleditch also makes an appearance as Wilson's mirror image sidekick of Jesse Eisenberg to Woody Harrelson.

Thomas Middleditch starts his final season of Silicon Valley this weekend.

Zombieland: Double Tap is not the best film of the year, however it's a bit of fun, 3 Stars.

Cinema Slut #2019 - Ready or Not

The brilliant Samara Weaving (SMILF, Picnic at Hanging Rock and upcoming Ryan Murphy series Hollywood) is excellent as the lead in this black comedy horror. Niece of Aussie legend Hugo Weaving, Samara has been making a real name for herself overseas, now cast as a leading lady, is Samara the next Margot Robbie?

So to the ultra violent film Ready or Not. It's super bloody whilst not taking itself too seriously at all.

2019 really is the year of horror movies. We still have a few more to come including Doctor Sleep and Black Christmas, I can't wait!



Ready or Not also stars former The OC star Adam Bordy, legendary Andie MacDowell and Revenge's Henry Czerny.

Yes it sounds like a lot of TV stars have come together for this Canadian production, however it's a damn fun ride.

From the wedding to the sinister game of hide and seek, Ready or Not is a bloody battle to the very end.

Will Samara the bride survive her new husband and his twisted family? Pop off to the cinema this weekend to find out. It's a slow week for new releases so if you are up to date this is a fun, blood soaked adventure, 3.5 Stars.

AACTA 2019 Nominations | Predictions

AACTA AWARD FOR BEST DRAMA SERIES

BLOOM David Maher, David Taylor, Glen Dolman, Sue Seeary – Playmaker Media (Stan)
MR INBETWEEN Michele Bennett – Blue-Tongue Films, Jungle Entertainment, Pariah Productions (Foxtel – Showcase)
SECRET CITY: UNDER THE EAGLE Stephen Corvini, Penny Chapman, Matt Cameron, Penny
Win, Carly Heaton – Matchbox Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)
TOTAL CONTROL Darren Dale, Miranda Dear, Rachel Griffiths – Blackfella Films (ABC)
WENTWORTH Jo Porter, Pino Amenta – FremantleMedia Australia (Foxtel – Showcase)

AACTA AWARD FOR BEST TELEFEATURE OR MINI SERIES

THE CRY Claire Mundell, Brian Kaczynski, Stuart Menzies –Synchronicity Films in association with December Media (ABC)
FIGHTING SEASON Kylie du Fresne, Blake Ayshford, Elisa Argenzio – Goalpost Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)
THE HUNTING Sophie Hyde, Lisa Scott, Rebecca Summerton –Closer Productions (SBS)
LAMBS OF GOD Jason Stephens, Helen Bowden, Sarah Lambert, Elisa Argenzio – Lingo Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)
ON THE ROPES Helen Bowden, Courtney Wise, Jason Stephens – Lingo Pictures (SBS)

AACTA AWARD FOR BEST COMEDY PROGRAM

FRAYED Clelia Mountford, Sharon Horgan, Nicole O’Donohue, Kevin Whyte – Merman Television, Guesswork Television (ABC)
THE LETDOWN Linda Micsko, Julian Morrow, Sarah Scheller, Alison Bell – Giant Dwarf (ABC)
ROSEHAVEN Andrew Walker, Kevin Whyte, Celia Pacquola, Luke McGregor – What Horse?, Guesswork Television (ABC)
SAMMY J Sammy J, Michelle Buxton, Chris McDonald – Buxstock Entertainment (ABC)
UTOPIA Santo Cilauro, Tom Gleisner, Rob Sitch, Michael Hirsh – Working Dog Productions (ABC)

AACTA AWARD FOR BEST ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAM

AUSTRALIAN NINJA WARRIOR Julie Ward, Amelia Fisk, Mark Barlin – Endemol Shine Australia (Nine Network)
AUSTRALIA’S GOT TALENT Digby Mitchell, David Briegel-Jones, Jonathon Summerhayes – FremantleMedia Australia (Seven Network)
HARD QUIZ Chris Walker, Kevin Whyte, Tom Gleeson, Charlie Pickering, John Tabbagh – Thinkative Television (ABC)
LEGO® MASTERS AUSTRALIA David McDonald, Eoin Maher, AJ Johnson – Endemol Shine Australia (Nine Network)
THE MASKED SINGER Sean Kneale, Janine Cooper – Warner Bros (Network Ten)

AACTA AWARD FOR BEST FACTUAL ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAM

BODY HACK Chris Hilton, David Alrich, Todd Sampson – Essential Media Group (Network Ten)
GOGGLEBOX AUSTRALIA David McDonald, Kerrie Kerr – Endemol Shine Australia (Network Ten/Foxtel)
GRUEN Nick Murray, Polly Connolly, Wil Anderson, Sarah Douglas – CJZ (ABC)
WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE Maxine Gray – Warner Bros (SBS)
YOU CAN’T ASK THAT Kirk Docker, Aaron Smith, Frances O’Riordan – Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)

AACTA AWARD FOR BEST LIFESTYLE PROGRAM

DESTINATION FLAVOUR CHINA Olivia Hoopmann, Joshua Martin – SBS (SBS)
GRAND DESIGNS AUSTRALIA Brooke Bayvel, Michael O’Neill – FremantleMedia Australia (Foxtel – Lifestyle)
THE GREAT AUSTRALIAN BAKE OFF Nicole Rogers, David Briegel-Jones – FremantleMedia Australia (Foxtel – Lifestyle)
LOVE IT OR LIST IT AUSTRALIA Karen Warner, Geoff Fitzpatrick, Howard Myers – Beyond Productions (Foxtel – Lifestyle)
SELLING HOUSES AUSTRALIA Sally Joyce, Sonia Harding, Geoff Fitzpatrick – Beyond Productions (Foxtel – Lifestyle)

AACTA AWARD FOR BEST REALITY SERIES

AUSTRALIAN SURVIVOR: CHAMPIONS V CONTENDERS Amelia Fisk, Adam Fergusson – Endemol Shine Australia (Network Ten)
THE BLOCK Julian Cress, David Barbour – Nine Network, Cavalier Television (Nine Network)
MARRIED AT FIRST SIGHT Tara McWilliams, Emma Lamb, Kate Feely – Endemol Shine Australia (Nine Network)
MASTERCHEF Marty Benson, Adam Fergusson – Endemol Shine Australia (Network Ten)
MY KITCHEN RULES Joe Herdman, David Dutton, Nicole Anthony, Therese Hegarty, Angus Ross – Seven Studios (Seven Network)

AACTA AWARD FOR BEST CHILDREN’S PROGRAM

BLUEY Charlie Aspinwall, Daley Pearson, Sam Moor – Ludo Studio (ABC Kids)
DROP DEAD WEIRD Sally Browning, Monica O’Brien, Kylie Mascord – Ambience Entertainment, Air Pig Productions, Telegael (7Two)
HARDBALL Catherine Nebauer, Joe Weatherstone, Bernadette O’Mahony, Jan Stradling – Northern Pictures (ABCME)
THE INBESTIGATORS Robyn Butler, Wayne Hope – Gristmill (ABCME)
THE UNLISTED Angie Fielder, Polly Staniford, Justine Flynn – Aquarius Films in association with Buster Productions (ABCME)

AACTA AWARD FOR BEST LEAD ACTOR IN A TELEVISION DRAMA

Patrick Brammall GLITCH – Matchbox Pictures (ABC)
Bryan Brown BLOOM – Playmaker Media (Stan)
Ewen Leslie THE CRY – Synchronicity Films in association with December Media (ABC)
Sam Reid LAMBS OF GOD – Lingo Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)
Scott Ryan MR INBETWEEN – Blue-Tongue Films, Jungle Entertainment, Pariah Productions (Foxtel – Showcase)

AACTA AWARD FOR BEST LEAD ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION DRAMA

Jenna Coleman THE CRY – Synchronicity Films in association with December Media (ABC)
Essie Davis LAMBS OF GOD – Lingo Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)
Ann Dowd LAMBS OF GOD – Lingo Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)
Deborah Mailman TOTAL CONTROL – Blackfella Films (ABC)
Anna Torv SECRET CITY: UNDER THE EAGLE – Matchbox Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)

AACTA AWARD FOR BEST PERFORMANCE IN A TELEVISION COMEDY

Alison Bell THE LETDOWN – Giant Dwarf (ABC)
Celia Pacquola ROSEHAVEN – What Horse?, Guesswork Television (ABC)
Celia Pacquola UTOPIA – Working Dog Productions (ABC)
Rob Sitch UTOPIA – Working Dog Productions (ABC)
Miranda Tapsell GET KRACK!N – A Katering Productions, Guesswork Television (ABC)

AACTA AWARD FOR BEST GUEST OR SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A TELEVISION DRAMA

Damon Herriman LAMBS OF GOD – Lingo Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)
Damon Herriman MR INBETWEEN – Blue-Tongue Films, Jungle Entertainment, Pariah Productions (Foxtel – Showcase)
Ewen Leslie FIGHTING SEASON – Goalpost Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)
Richard Roxburgh THE HUNTING – Closer Productions (SBS)
John Stanton BLOOM – Playmaker Media (Stan)

AACTA AWARD FOR BEST GUEST OR SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION DRAMA

Kate Box LES NORTON – Roadshow Rough Diamond (ABC)
Rachel Griffiths TOTAL CONTROL – Blackfella Films (ABC)
Asher Keddie THE CRY – Synchronicity Films in association with December Media (ABC)
Brooke Satchwell MR INBETWEEN – Blue-Tongue Films, Jungle Entertainment, Pariah Productions (Foxtel – Showcase)
Jacki Weaver BLOOM – Playmaker Media (Stan)

AACTA SUBSCRIPTION TELEVISION AWARD FOR BEST MALE PRESENTER

Graeme Blundell SCREEN – Foxtel (Foxtel – Arts)
Ron Iddles RON IDDLES: THE GOOD COP – CJZ (Foxtel – Crime + Investigation)
Matty Johns SUNDAY NIGHT WITH MATTY JOHNS, THE MATTY JOHNS PODCAST – Fox Sports Australia (Foxtel – Fox Sports)
Peter Maddison GRAND DESIGNS AUSTRALIA – FremantleMedia Australia (Foxtel – Lifestyle)
Andrew Winter SELLING HOUSES AUSTRALIA & LOVE IT OR LIST IT AUSTRALIA – Beyond Productions (Foxtel – Lifestyle)

AACTA SUBSCRIPTION TELEVISION AWARD FOR BEST FEMALE NEW TALENT

Asha Boswarva LAMBS OF GOD – Lingo Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)
Usha Cornish BLOOM – Playmaker Media (Stan)
Paulene Gibson WENTWORTH – FremantleMedia Australia (Foxtel – Showcase)
Emma Lancaster LAMBS OF GOD – Lingo Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)
Yvonne Rae LAMBS OF GOD – Lingo Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)

AACTA SUBSCRIPTION TELEVISION AWARD FOR BEST MALE NEW TALENT

Marco Alosio FIGHTING SEASON – Goalpost Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)
Frederick du Rietz SECRET CITY: UNDER THE EAGLE – Matchbox Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)
Fletcher Kennedy SECRET CITY: UNDER THE EAGLE – Matchbox Pictures (Foxtel –
Showcase) 
Diesel La Torraca LAMBS OF GOD – Lingo Pictures (Foxtel – Showcase)


BEST FILM PRESENTED BY FOXTEL

HOTEL MUMBAI Basil Iwanyk, Gary Hamilton, Julie Ryan, Jomon Thomas – Hotel Mumbai Double Guess Productions

JUDY & PUNCH Michele Bennett, Nash Edgerton, Danny Gabai – Vice Media LLC, Blue-Tongue Films, Pariah Productions

THE KING Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Liz Watts, David Michôd, Joel Edgerton –
Plan B Entertainment, Porchlight Films, A Yoki Inc, Blue-Tongue Films

THE NIGHTINGALE Kristina Ceyton, Bruna Papandrea, Steve Hutensky, Jennifer Kent –
Causeway Films, Made Up Stories

RIDE LIKE A GIRL Richard Keddie, Rachel Griffiths, Susie Montague – The Film Company, Magdalene Media

TOP END WEDDING Rosemary Blight, Kylie du Fresne, Kate Croser – Goalpost Pictures

BEST LEAD ACTOR

Timothée Chalamet THE KING – Plan B Entertainment, Porchlight Films, A Yoki Inc, Blue-Tongue Films

Baykali Ganambarr THE NIGHTINGALE – Causeway Films, Made Up Stories

Damon Herriman JUDY & PUNCH – Vice Media LLC, Blue-Tongue Films, Pariah Productions

Dev Patel HOTEL MUMBAI – Hotel Mumbai Double Guess Productions

Hugo Weaving HEARTS AND BONES – Night Kitchen Productions

BEST LEAD ACTRESS

Nazanin Boniadi HOTEL MUMBAI – Hotel Mumbai Double Guess Productions

Aisling Franciosi THE NIGHTINGALE – Causeway Films, Made Up Stories

Teresa Palmer RIDE LIKE A GIRL – The Film Company, Magdalene Media

Miranda Tapsell TOP END WEDDING – Goalpost Pictures

Mia Wasikowska JUDY & PUNCH – Vice Media LLC, Blue-Tongue Films, Pariah Productions


BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

Joel Edgerton THE KING – Plan B Entertainment, Porchlight Films, A Yoki Inc, Blue-Tongue Films

Damon Herriman THE NIGHTINGALE – Causeway Films, Made Up Stories

Andrew Luri HEARTS AND BONES – Night Kitchen Productions

Ben Mendelsohn THE KING – Plan B Entertainment, Porchlight Films, A Yoki Inc, Blue-Tongue Films

Michael Sheasby THE NIGHTINGALE – Causeway Films, Made Up Stories


BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

Tilda Cobham-Hervey HOTEL MUMBAI – Hotel Mumbai Double Guess Productions

Magnolia Maymuru THE NIGHTINGALE – Causeway Films, Made Up Stories

Hilary Swank I AM MOTHER – The Penguin Empire, Southern Light Films

Bolude Watson HEARTS AND BONES – Night Kitchen Productions

Ursula Yovich TOP END WEDDING – Goalpost Pictures


BEST DOCUMENTARY

THE AUSTRALIAN DREAM Daniel Gordon, Sarah Thomson, Nick Batzias, Virgina Whitwell, John Battsek – GoodThing Production Company, Passion Pictures

THE EULOGY Janine Hosking, Katey Grusovin, Trish Lake – iKandy Films, Freshwater Pictures, Grusoflix

THE FINAL QUARTER Ian Darling, Mary Macrae – Shark Island Productions

IN MY BLOOD IT RUNS Maya Newell, Sophie Hyde, Rachel Naninaaq Edwardson, Larissa Behrendt – Closer Productions

MYSTIFY MICHAEL HUTCHENCE Richard Lowenstein, Maya Gnyp, John Battsek, Sue Murray, Mark Fennessy, Lynn-Maree Milburn, Andrew de Groot – Ghost Pictures

(Mini) Monday Spotlight: Japanese Wallpaper

Japanese Wallpaper  otherwise known as Gabriel Strum, resides in Melbourne, Victoria, on Friday he released his debut album, Glow.

Ga has been releasing tunes since his debut single "Breathe In" featuring Wafia hit the airwaves in October 2013.

The song then went on to be featured in Zach Braff's film Wish I Was Here.

Strum has worked with a number of super guest vocalists whilst scoring a spot touring alongside Lily Allen, not to mention producing music for Mallrat, Holy Holy, Wafia, Eilish Gilligan, Bec Sandridge and Allday.

So let's get into his debut record, along with some previous hits, it's time to discover your next new favourite artist.

Cinema Slut #2019 - Ride Like a Girl

I had super mixed feelings going into the latest Australian movie, Ride Like a Girl, it's been a big week for horse riding in Australia. If you have been living under a rock, here is a summary.

Yeah so it's a rough time for a film about Michelle Payne to land on Australian screens.

Adelaide actress and mother of three Teresa Palmer plays Payne and does a solid job, Sam Neill is great as father Paddy whilst Magda Szubanski and Blindspot lead Sullivan Stapleton as have roles.

Whilst someone who I am really warming to, Ms Brooke Satchwell plays sister Therese Payne. I have loved her character on Mr Inbetween develop over recent weeks.

OK back to the film, I hate sports betting, I am not a fan of horse racing and the brutality that follows, so it's not a great pick for me. However I love to support Australian cinema, still Top End Wedding should have really done better business than it did. This year in Australian cinema has really given us a mixed bag.



OK to the good points, the family bond (particularly Michelle and real life brother Stevie) is beautiful, the racing parts not so beautiful, the lengths Michelle (and most likely her brothers/sisters) went to, to race/lose weight for a category was extreme. To the point where it was confronting.

I think director and Aussie legend Rachel Griffiths thought this film was a no brainer, however no one saw the 7:30 report coming about the entire horse industry.

If I had of seen this film a week earlier I may have had different reactions to parts of the film, however I saw it when I did and I have to score accordingly. 3 Stars for an inspirational but equally heartbreaking story.