Bryan Brown and Susie Porter Lead the Stars at The Travellers Australian Debut

The Australian Premiere of The Travellers – Hayden Orpheum, Sydney, 2025 | Photos by Scott Ehler

Cremorne’s Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace was awash with glamour and anticipation this evening as the Australian premiere of The Travellers unfolded in true cinematic style.

Oscar®-nominated writer and director Bruce Beresford (Driving Miss Daisy, Mao’s Last Dancer, Ladies in Black) led the parade of stars down the red carpet, joined by the film’s standout cast: Bryan Brown, Susie Porter, Shubshri Kandiah, and Alison McGirr.

The premiere drew an impressive roster of high-profile guests, including Sam Neill, Lisa Wilkinson, and Peter FitzSimons, underscoring the film’s anticipation and the respect it commands within the Australian film community.

With cameras flashing and fans eagerly snapping every moment, the atmosphere combined the elegance of a classic premiere with the excitement of witnessing homegrown talent at its finest. FilmCentral was on hand to capture the magic, with photos supplied by Nixco highlighting the glamour, the smiles, and the cinematic energy of the evening.

The Travellers promises a compelling cinematic journey, and tonight’s premiere offered the first glimpse of its stellar ensemble in action, setting the stage for what could be one of Australia’s most talked-about films of the year.

Return to Pandora: James Cameron’s ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Trailer Promises Epic Adventure

A breathtaking new trailer for Avatar: Fire and Ash, the highly anticipated third instalment in James Cameron’s record-breaking Avatar saga, has officially dropped, promising an unforgettable cinematic experience. Cameron, the Oscar®-winning filmmaker renowned for redefining the limits of visual storytelling, once again transports audiences to the vibrant world of Pandora for another groundbreaking adventure. The film is set to open exclusively in Australian and New Zealand cinemas on 18 December 2025, with screenings in IMAX 3D, Dolby Cinema 3D, RealD 3D, Cinemark XD, 4DX, ScreenX, and other premium formats, ensuring viewers can experience every breathtaking moment in stunning detail.

The story continues with Marine-turned-Na’vi leader Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), fierce warrior Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña), and the Sully family as they confront new challenges on their extraordinary home planet. This chapter delves deeper into Pandora’s rich mythology, revealing new biomes, species, and spiritual themes, all while maintaining the emotional core that has made the series so beloved. Returning cast members include Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, and Cliff Curtis, alongside Kate Winslet, Oona Chaplin, Edie Falco, David Thewlis, and Jemaine Clement, among others. The screenplay is penned by Cameron, Rick Jaffa, and Amanda Silver, with a story developed by Cameron, Jaffa, Silver, Josh Friedman, and Shane Salerno.

Ahead of the release, fans will have the chance to revisit the awe-inspiring world of Pandora with a special cinematic engagement of Avatar: The Way of Water. The Oscar®-winning global phenomenon, which earned over $2.3 billion worldwide and claimed the Academy Award® for Best Visual Effects, will be re-released in 3D exclusively in cinemas for one week starting 2 October. This event offers audiences the opportunity to relive the visual mastery and emotional resonance that made The Way of Water one of the most successful films in history.

With Avatar: Fire and Ash, James Cameron continues to push the boundaries of cinematic storytelling and technology, blending cutting-edge visual effects with deeply human narratives. As anticipation builds ahead of its December release, audiences are set to return to Pandora in ways that promise to be more immersive and awe-inspiring than ever before. Avatar: Fire and Ash opens exclusively in Australian and New Zealand cinemas on 18 December 2025.

Trash Cat Studios and DCP Australia Invite You to Back a Groundbreaking Fantasy Epic

Trash Cat Studios, in partnership with DCP Australia, is excited to announce the launch of a Kickstarter campaign for The Ocean’s Curse, a groundbreaking indie feature film set to redefine independent cinema.

Directed and produced by award-winning filmmaker Johan Earl, produced by Sarah Mawbey and Yolandi Franken, with Sarah Mawbey and Johan Earl also starring, and with acclaimed cinematographer Tom Gleeson as Director of Photography, this storm-tossed fantasy epic delivers a gripping tale of family, survival, and sacrifice, infused with adrenaline-fueled action and stunning visuals.

Trash Cat Studios invites fans and supporters to join this ambitious project and help create a film that proves indie cinema can rival major studio blockbusters with heart and spectacle.

 Following the global success of their previous film Forbidden Ground (distributed by Lionsgate and available on all major streaming platforms internationally), the team is poised to deliver another unforgettable cinematic experience.

The Ocean’s Curse is our chance to push indie filmmaking to new heights,” says director and producer Johan Earl. “By backing us, you’re helping redefine what’s possible with passion and vision.”

“We’re making The Ocean’s Curse for our kids and every dreamer out there, to prove that with heart and hustle, anything is possible,” says producer and actress Sarah Mawbey.

Be Part of the Epic

Contribute to our crowdfunding campaign and become part of The Ocean’s Curse! Backers can:

  • Act in the Film: Land a role on screen, no experience required.

  • Walk the Red Carpet: Join the cast and crew at the star-studded premiere.

  • Get VIP On-Set Access: Experience the filmmaking process up close.

  • Make History: Help create an indie film that delivers blockbuster spectacle.

Support the Vision

Join us to bring The Ocean’s Curse to life! Visit http://www.oceanscursemovie.com to contribute and unlock exclusive rewards.

Disney+ Drops Trailer for Season Two of FX’s English Teacher, Premiering September 26

Disney+ has officially released the trailer for the second season of FX’s critically acclaimed comedy series English Teacher, which is set to premiere on Friday, September 26 with all ten episodes streaming exclusively in Australia. Fans can also catch up on season one, now available to stream.

Created by and starring Brian Jordan Alvarez, English Teacher continues its sharp, satirical take on the high school ecosystem — this time tackling even bigger controversies while keeping its irreverent wit intact.

A New Semester, Same Chaos

Season two once again follows Evan Marquez (Alvarez), the overly passionate teacher determined to confront every issue head-on, no matter how uncomfortable or disruptive. Alongside him are his equally colourful colleagues and friends: loyal yet exasperated Gwen (Stephanie Koenig), outspoken gym teacher Markie (Sean Patton), unpredictable guidance counsellor Rick (Carmen Christopher), and perpetually anxious Principal Grant Moretti (Enrico Colantoni).

This season, Morrison-Hensley High becomes ground zero for heated debates around climate change, Covid, military recruitment, and the ever-divisive question of student phone usage. As always, Evan refuses to back down, even when it lands him in hot water with students, parents, and administrators.

Evan’s Double Life

Beyond school politics, Evan’s personal life faces its own trials. His relationship with Malcolm (Jordan Firstman) — who no longer works at Morrison-Hensley — struggles under the weight of Evan’s all-consuming righteousness. The new season promises to explore how Evan balances his ideals with his growing responsibilities to the people closest to him.

The Team Behind the Laughs

The series is executive produced by Alvarez alongside Paul Simms, Jonathan Krisel, Dave King, Kathryn Dean, and the duo Jake Bender & Zach Dunn. Produced by FX Productions, English Teacher has cemented itself as a bold and hilarious commentary on modern culture through the microcosm of high school life.

Safe Streaming for Families

Disney+ continues to ensure a tailored viewing experience for all audiences. With robust parental controls, parents and guardians can set content restrictions, create PIN-protected profiles, and activate Junior Mode profiles, giving peace of mind while keeping the platform accessible for the whole family.

From Startup to Stardom: ‘Swiped’ Highlights Whitney Wolfe’s Billionaire Journey

20th Century Studios is set to deliver a powerful and timely cinematic experience with Swiped, premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 9 before its exclusive launch on Disney+ on September 19, 2025. The newly released trailer, poster, and captivating film stills offer an enticing preview of this gripping drama based on the real-life story of Whitney Wolfe Herd, the fearless founder of Bumble, whose journey has reshaped the landscape of online dating and female entrepreneurship.

Swiped chronicles Whitney Wolfe’s rise from a recent college graduate navigating the daunting, male-dominated tech industry to becoming a visionary innovator who revolutionises dating culture with not one but two trailblazing apps. Portrayed with compelling depth by Lily James, Wolfe’s story is one of relentless determination, sharp ingenuity, and bold risk-taking—qualities that propelled her to become the youngest female self-made billionaire in history. The film delves beyond the headlines to explore the personal challenges, fierce battles, and triumphs behind Wolfe’s extraordinary success, offering a nuanced portrait of ambition, resilience, and empowerment.

Helmed by director Rachel Lee Goldenberg—who also co-wrote the screenplay alongside Bill Parker and Kim Caramele—Swiped balances sharp storytelling with emotional resonance. The film’s ensemble cast, including Jackson White, Myha’la, Ben Schnetzer, Pierson Fodé, Clea DuVall, Pedro Correa, Ian Colletti, Coral Peña, and Dan Stevens, bring rich performances that flesh out the high-stakes world of tech startups, friendship, and rivalry.

Produced by Jennifer Gibgot, Andrew Panay, and Lily James herself, Swiped captures the zeitgeist of a tech revolution led by a young woman refusing to be sidelined. It is as much a celebration of innovation and entrepreneurship as it is a compelling character study, reflecting broader conversations about gender, power, and change in the digital age.

As anticipation builds for its TIFF premiere and Disney+ release, Swiped promises to resonate with audiences hungry for inspiring, real-world stories that showcase the impact of determination and vision. This film is set to be a defining portrayal of female leadership and a vivid reminder of the new frontiers being carved out in technology and business by the bold and the brave. For anyone fascinated by the intersection of tech, culture, and gender dynamics, Swiped is a must-watch event of 2025.

Liam Neeson Joins the Fight Against a Deadly Outbreak in 2026’s COLD STORAGE

What happens when Jurassic Park’s screenwriter and Zombieland’s producer join forces? You get Cold Storage—a white-knuckle, fungus-fuelled thrill ride heading for cinemas in 2026.

The premise is pure outbreak mayhem: a highly contagious, constantly mutating fungus escapes a top-secret lab, and two inexperienced employees (Joe Keery, Stranger Things; Georgina Campbell, Barbarian) must team up with a grizzled bioterror operative (Liam Neeson, channelling his Taken grit) to stop it. The catch? They’ve only got one night before the microorganism devours everything in its path.

Directed by Jonny Campbell (Westworld, Doctor Who) and boasting a stellar supporting cast—Sosie Bacon, Vanessa Redgrave, Lesley Manville, Aaron Heffernan, Ellora Torchia, Gavin Spokes—this looks set to blend smart sci-fi, rapid-fire tension, and gory spectacle. If the teaser is anything to go by, Cold Storage could be 2026’s ultimate late-night popcorn watch. Hazmat suits recommended.

Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan Bring the Magic to Sydney’s Purple Carpet for Freakier Friday Premiere

Photo Credit: Scott Ehler | Image supplied by Disney Australia

The Aussie purple carpet shimmered with star power as Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan reunited Down Under for the Australian premiere of Freakier Friday, Disney’s much-anticipated sequel to the 2003 classic. Held at Event Cinemas Westfield Bondi, the premiere drew a glittering crowd eager to celebrate this fresh twist on a beloved tale, ahead of the film’s exclusive August 7 release in cinemas across Australia and New Zealand.

Reprising their iconic roles as mother-daughter duo Tess and Anna Coleman, Curtis and Lohan dive back into a story where family ties get even more tangled. Years after their first unforgettable body swap, the next generation steps into the spotlight as Anna juggles her own daughter and soon-to-be stepdaughter, proving that sometimes, lightning really does strike twice.

Photo Credit: Scott Ehler | Image supplied by Disney Australia

Directed by Nisha Ganatra and inspired by Mary Rodgers’ classic Freaky Friday novel, Freakier Friday assembles a talented ensemble cast including Julia Butters, Sophia Hammons, Manny Jacinto, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Rosalind Chao, Chad Michael Murray, and Mark Harmon. Behind the scenes, the production boasts powerhouse producers Kristin Burr, Andrew Gunn, and Jamie Lee Curtis herself, alongside executive producers Nathan Kelly, Ann Marie Sanderlin, and Lindsay Lohan, promising a film that’s as heartfelt as it is hilarious.

Photo Credit: Scott Ehler | Image supplied by Disney Australia

With its perfect blend of nostalgia and fresh family fun, Freakier Friday is poised to charm audiences of all ages. It hit cinemas on August 7, 2025, across Australia and New Zealand.

StudioCanal Debuts Trailer for Good Fortune, Starring Keanu Reeves, Aziz Ansari, Seth Rogen, and More

Keanu Reeves as Gabriel and Sandra Oh as Martha in Good Fortune. Photo Credit: Eddy Chen

StudioCanal has officially dropped the trailer for Good Fortune, a heartwarming yet hilariously chaotic comedy led by an all-star cast including Keanu Reeves, Aziz Ansari, Seth Rogen, Keke Palmer, and Sandra Oh.

The film centres on Gabriel (Keanu Reeves), a well-meaning but hopelessly inept angel whose attempts to intervene in human lives lead to more trouble than he intends. His latest mission entangles the lives of two complete opposites — a struggling gig worker (Aziz Ansari) just trying to make ends meet, and a wealthy venture capitalist (Seth Rogen) whose privileged existence is about to be turned upside down.

With his trademark deadpan charm, Reeves brings a unique twist to the role of an angel who can’t quite get it right, while Ansari and Rogen provide the fast-paced comedic chemistry. Add in the dynamic performances of Keke Palmer and Sandra Oh, and Good Fortune promises a fresh, offbeat take on fate, friendship, and the messy beauty of second chances.

The film marks Aziz Ansari’s return to the director’s chair, also penning the screenplay based on a novel co-written with Anthony Katagas and Alan Yang. Known for blending humour with heartfelt storytelling, Ansari’s latest project looks set to deliver both laughs and meaningful moments.

Good Fortune lands in Australian cinemas on October 16, inviting audiences to explore what happens when divine intervention doesn’t go quite as planned — and when destiny might just need a little human help.

Carmen & Bolude Hits Digital Screens – Now Available to Rent or Buy!

The critically acclaimed Australian comedy Carmen & Bolude is now available to rent or purchase at home across major digital platforms, including Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, YouTube Movies, Microsoft Movies & TV, Fetch TV, Sky NZ, Neon NZ, and the Foxtel Store.

Directed by Maria Isabel Delaossa and Michela Carattini, and produced by Yolandi Franken and Michela Carattini, Carmen & Bolude tells a touching and timely story of love, friendship, and cultural identity through the lens of two international women. The film stars Michela Carattini, Bolude Watson, David Collins, Elliott Giarola, Liam Greinke, Joey Vieira, Joe Avati, James Liotta, and Wale Ojo.

After its world premiere in Hollywood, winning Best Independent Film & Best International Film at the LA Independent Women Film Awards, followed by a sold-out European premiere and crowding out the Hayden Orpheum at its Australian premiere, receiving further acclaim on the festival circuit with selections at the Gold Coast Film Festival, Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival, Barcelona Indie Filmmakers Fest, New York Independent Film Festival, Blussh Romance Festival, and the African Film Festival Australia—the film is now available for audiences to enjoy from the comfort of home.

Don’t miss the chance to watch one of Australia’s most talked-about independent films of the year:

This “biting and funny” (Speaking Cinema) Australian film, the first written, directed and produced entirely by Latin-Australian and African-Australian women, is “incredibly topical” (The AU Review), and “really portrays the cultural complexity of Sydney” (The Drive), with iconic locations rarely shown, such as the Auburn Mosque and Sydney’s Murugan Temple, and languages rarely scripted, such as First Nations Darug and Nigerian Yoruba. Hailed by the critics as “An impactful step forward for Australian cinema” (The Curb), “One of the most exciting Australian films of 2025” (Film Central) and “Wildly entertaining and deeply meaningful” (The Medium), with “a standout soundtrack” (Film Ink), and  “stunning cinematography – Carattini and Watson give incredible, truthful performances with obvious chemistry” (The Medium).

Carmen & Bolude is available now — rent or buy today on your favourite platform.

ANZ Streaming Links:

PRIME VIDEO:

https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Carmen-Bolude/0HPMK2VOBLJ54IO4UUXDHE1VXL

APPLE TV:

https://tv.apple.com/nz/movie/carmen–bolude/umc.cmc.6hy0tc92whx1y39lavjtuh4r0

FETCH TV:

https://www.fetchtv.com.au/movie/details/2968302/carmen–bolude

YOUTUBE VIDEO:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcV4NFuZ76I

GOOGLE PLAY:

https://play.google.com/store/movies/details?id=H1ThXapEGlc.P

NEON NZ:

https://www.neontv.co.nz/movie/carmen-bolude

FOXTEL:

Link tbc

SKY NZ:

Link tbc

Lilo & Stitch Lives Again: A Heartfelt Remake That Finds New Meaning in Ohana

The 2025 iteration brings fresh life to the beloved 2002 animated classic, blending warm Hawaiian sunsets with CGI alien mayhem. While the story has undergone some tweaks—certain characters have vanished, and a few gags have been traded in for drama—the spirit of Ohana remains intact.

The Performances

At the centre of it all is newcomer Maia Kealoha, who gives a genuinely touching performance as Lilo. She captures the quirky, misunderstood essence of the original character with charm and emotional depth. However, it’s Sydney Elise Elizabeth Agudong as Nani who truly shines. Her portrayal of a young woman juggling grief, responsibility, and sisterhood is pitch-perfect—her chemistry with Kealoha anchors the film emotionally.

Chris Sanders reprises his iconic voice role as Stitch, and it’s like he never left. Stitch is just as chaotic and loveable as ever. Billy Magnussen brings unexpected heart to Agent Pleakley, while Hannah Waddingham and Zach Galifianakis add some solid weight to the supporting cast.

And let’s not forget Tia Carrere—seeing her return in a new role (albeit brief) is a nostalgic touch that fans will appreciate. It’s a full-circle moment that acknowledges the past while moving forward.

The Story & Direction

This is not a shot-for-shot remake—and that’s a good thing. Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes’s screenplay expands Lilo and Nani’s backstory, giving the sisters’ bond more narrative room to breathe. Some might miss the zanier moments of the original, but the emotional core hits the same beats. The theme of family—of being broken, different, and still finding love—is as potent as ever.

That said, the focus has definitely shifted toward the human drama. The alien antics take a back seat to familial tensions, which may feel like a misstep for fans expecting more extraterrestrial chaos. Notably, the villainous Captain Gantu is absent, and some design choices—like Jumba and Pleakley appearing in human form—were clearly budget-driven compromises.

Visuals & Music
Visually, the film is a treat. Filming in Hawaii certainly doesn’t hurt, and the cinematography capitalises on the location’s natural beauty. The CGI is decent, though Stitch occasionally dips into the uncanny valley. The musical score wisely retains the charm of the original, blending traditional Hawaiian sounds with emotional orchestration. It’s nostalgic but refreshed.

Final Thoughts
Lilo & Stitch isn’t a perfect remake, but it is a meaningful one. It doesn’t try to replicate the original beat-for-beat, nor should it. Instead, it takes the spirit of the 2002 classic and reimagines it for a new generation—one that might be meeting Lilo and Stitch for the very first time.

If you’re looking for a carbon copy, best stick with the animated version. But if you’re open to a new take—one that’s sincere, respectful, and deeply human—this version is worth the watch. It’ll make you laugh, tear up, and remember why Ohana means family.

Verdict: A warm, heartfelt remake that doesn’t always hit the mark, but gets the big things right.
3 out of 5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ ☆