FilmCentral Magazine

Carmen & Bolude: A Groundbreaking Australian Film Set to Dazzle Sydney

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Following the incredible success of her last film Streets of Colour, which earned a 2024 AACTA nomination and saw sold-out screenings, producer Yolandi Franken is once again making waves in the Australian film industry. Her latest venture, Carmen & Bolude, is set to make its highly anticipated Australian debut on March 19th at the prestigious Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace in Sydney. The film first captured international attention with its world premiere in Los Angeles, and now, Australian audiences are eager to experience this groundbreaking production.

What sets Carmen & Bolude apart is its unique place in Australian cinema history—it is the very first Australian feature film written, directed, and produced entirely by African and Latin Australian women. Franken, known for championing diverse storytelling, acknowledges some thematic similarities between Carmen & Bolude and Streets of Colour, but she assures audiences that this latest film brings an entirely different energy.

“Although both have heart, Carmen & Bolude is also full of humour and a whole lot of personality,” says Franken. “We’re getting to see life in Australia from diverse female points of view, but in a way that’s fun – and makes us laugh out loud!”

A Red-Carpet Affair

The Australian premiere of Carmen & Bolude is set to be an unmissable event. Featuring a glamorous red carpet, sparkling wine, and an array of well-known Australian comedians and influencers, the night is expected to be a dazzling celebration of diversity in film. Among the stellar cast members gracing the screen are David Collins (of The Umbilical Brothers), Joey Veiera (of Dora and the Lost City of Gold), Joe Avati (recently crowned 2024 Australian Comedian of the Year), Suzan Mutesi, Olivia Vasquez, and many more. Their collective talent and charisma are sure to elevate the film’s already dynamic storytelling.

A Story Rooted in Reality

At the heart of Carmen & Bolude is a narrative based on real-life experiences. The film’s creator-writers, Bolude Watson and Michela Carattini, drew from their own lives, blending personal anecdotes with a touch of movie magic to craft a compelling story.

“People always guess wrong about which parts are true and which aren’t,” says Carattini. “But I can promise that everything that happens in this movie happened to us or to other people in our lives. Ultimately, our goal is to bring people together – to laugh, cry, think – but mostly, to dance.”

This honest and heartfelt approach to storytelling ensures that Carmen & Bolude resonates deeply with audiences, particularly those who have ever navigated life’s ups and downs in a multicultural world.

A Celebration of Culture and Music

Beyond its engaging narrative, Carmen & Bolude shines in its celebration of music and culture. The film features an electrifying soundtrack that brings together some of Australia’s finest Latin, African, and Indigenous artists. The music, composed by Sydney’s very own Maari Music, is an essential element of the film, adding layers of emotion and energy that amplify the storytelling.

Watson, who played a crucial role in crafting the film’s Nigerian aspects, emphasises the importance of authentic representation in the film’s music. “I wanted my people to hear themselves,” she says, “to hear their music from the vocal chords of their own people.”

The result is a vibrant, rhythmic, and deeply moving score that is sure to leave audiences captivated.

A Must-See for Australian Audiences

With its blend of humour, heart, and cultural celebration, Carmen & Bolude promises to be one of the most exciting Australian films of 2024. The film not only brings diverse female voices to the forefront but also offers a refreshing and joyous cinematic experience.

As the countdown begins for its Sydney premiere, excitement continues to build among film lovers and industry professionals alike. With its trailblazing creators, star-studded cast, and a story that is both personal and universal, Carmen & Bolude is set to be a milestone in Australian cinema.

Don’t miss the chance to witness this extraordinary film when it premieres at the Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace on March 19th. Get ready to laugh, cry, and, most importantly—dance.

Get Ready for a Wild Ride: Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip Hits Disney+

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f you loved Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, get excited — because Alexander is back, and this time, he’s heading on holiday! Disney+ has just dropped the trailer and key art for the brand-new family comedy Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip, which will be streaming from 28 March 2025.

The film follows 11-year-old Alexander Garcia and his family as they set off for a dream Spring Break getaway to Mexico City. But things don’t exactly go to plan. From the very start, Alexander’s famous bad luck strikes again — and this time, it’s not just a bad day. It’s a very bad road trip!

When the family stumbles across an ancient cursed idol, their holiday goes from chaotic to completely crazy. With their trip falling apart, Alexander and his family realise the only way to turn things around is to work together and return the idol to its rightful home. Along the way, they face wild mishaps, hilarious disasters, and a few heartwarming moments too.

The movie stars some familiar faces, including Eva Longoria as Alexander’s mum Val, Jesse Garcia as his dad Frank, and Paulina Chávez as his sister Mia. Comedy legends Cheech Marin and Michelle Buteau also join the fun, alongside a fantastic cast of stars. Thom Nemer makes his big debut as Alexander, bringing the beloved character to life once again.

The film is directed by Marvin Lemus and written by Matt Lopez, based on the classic book by Judith Viorst. It’s produced by Shawn Levy, Dan Levine, Dan Cohen, and Lisa Henson, with Eva Longoria, Emily Morris, and Shelly Strong as executive producers.

So, mark your calendars and get ready for a family adventure full of laughs, mishaps, and unforgettable moments when Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip hits Disney+ on 28 March 2025. Whether you’re a fan of the original book, the first film, or just love a good comedy, this is one road trip you won’t want to miss!

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Disney+

Flickerfest 2025: Winners Revealed at Australia’s Premier Short Film Festival

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After a highly successful 10-day festival at Bondi, the 34th annual FLiCKERFEST International and Australian awards were announced this evening at a star-studded ceremony at Bondi Pavilion, Bondi Beach.

Attended by celebrated guests from the Australian film industry, filmmakers and jury, the Closing Night ceremony honoured the esteemed entrants in this year’s competition and FLiCKERFEST’s Academy® Qualifying Awards, including the Flickerfest Award for Best International Short Film, Yoram Gross Award for Best International Animation, Panasonic LUMIX Award for Best Australian Short Film & Flickerfest Award for Best Documentary.

The Flickerfest Short Film Awards continue to cement the festival’s global position as a leading International Short film festival on the world stage. Following the ceremony, a selection of award-winning films screened before the Closing Night Party took place.

Flickerfest now hits the road on a 40+ venue national tour to all states &territories across Australia.

And the winners are:

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

Flickerfest Award for Best International Short Film (Academy® Qualifying)
‘Changing Rooms’ (France)
Writer/Director: Violette Gitton | Producer: Jules Reinartz

Yoram Gross Award for Best International Animated Short Film (Academy® Qualifying)
‘Beautiful Men’ (Belgium)
Writer/Director: Nicolas Keppens | Producer: Emmanuel Alain Raynal

Highly Commended International Animation

‘Maybe Elephants’ (Norway, Canada)

Director/Writer: Torill Kove

Producer: Lise Fernley, Maral Mohammadian, Tonje Skar Reiersen

EU In Australia Award for Best EU Short Film

‘The Boy With White Skin’ (France, Senegal)
Writer/Director: Simon Panay | Producers: Rafael Andrea Soatto, Laëtitia Denis, Kévin Rousseau, Souleymane Kébé, Maud Leclair-Névé

Flickerfest Special Jury Award

‘Ebb And Flow’ (Lebanon)
Director/Writer: Nay Tabbara | Producer: Isabelle Mecattaf

Special Mention of the Jury for International Short Film

‘A Summer’s End Poem’ (China)

Director/Writer/Producer: Lam Can-zhao

Writer: Yupeng He, Shutong Xu

DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

Flickerfest Award for Best Documentary Short Film (Academy® Qualifying)

‘Recomposing Earth’ (UK)

Director: Christian Cargill | Producers: Christian Cargill, John Bannister

Flickerfest Special Jury Award for Documentary Short

‘Nelson The Piglet’ (Netherlands)

Director: Anneke de Lind van Wijngaarden | Producers: Nienke Rispens, Maarten Kuit, Jeroen van den Idsert

RAINBOW LGBTQI COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

Azure Productions Award for Best Rainbow Short

‘Holy Curse’ (United States)
Writer/Director/Producer: Snigdha Kapoor | Producer: Neeraj Churi

EU In Australia Award for Best EU Rainbow Short Film

‘Chico’ (France)

Writer/Director: Theo Abadie | Writer: Louise Courvoisier | Producer: Pauline Attal

SPECIAL MENTION OF THE JURY FOR RAINBOW SHORT FILM

‘Dragfox’

Director: Lisa Ott | Producer: Owen Thomas

AUSTRALIAN COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

Panasonic LUMIX Award for Best Australian Short Film (Academy® Qualifying)

‘Marcia And The Shark’

Writer/Director: Sam Ferris Bryant | Writer/Producer: Hugo O’Connor

Spectrum Films Award for Best Direction in an Australian Short Film

Director: Riley Blakeway for ‘A Thousand Odd Days’

Yoram Gross Award for Best Australian Animated Short Film

‘The Fix-It-Man And The Fix-It-Wooman’

Director: Cornelius Ebatarinja, Nelson Armstrong | Writer: Rhonda Sharpe, Courtney Collins Producer: Sophie Wallace

AFTRS Award for Best Screenplay in an Australian Short Film

Writer: Claudia Osborne for ‘Rash’

John Barry Award for Best Cinematography in an Australian Short Film

Cinematographer: Jason De Ford, Victor Ng for ‘A Good Boy’

Avid Award for Best Editing in an Australian Short Film

Editor: Samuel Inglis for ‘Not Yet’

Avid Award for Best Original Music in an Australian Short Film

Composer: Josh Barber for ‘Asian Male, 60’s, Lead’

Rebel8 Award for Outstanding Emerging Female Director In honour of Samantha Rebillet

Director: Sophie Serisier for ‘Oi’

Highly Commended Outstanding Emerging Female Director

Director: Claudia Osborne for ‘Rash’

Specsavers Award for Best Australian Comedy Short Film

‘Over’

Director/Writer: Duncan Ragg, Anna Phillips | Producer: Isabella Debbage

FLiCKERUP YOUTH COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

AFTRS FlickerUp Award for Best Youth Short Film
‘Bubblegum and Bunyips’
Director: Kellyville High School | Producer: Fabio Caprarelli

Yoram Gross FlickerUp Award for Best Youth Animated Short Film
‘The Apartment’

Director: Year 7 Doveton College Students | Producer Gene Geoffrey

Avid FlickerUp Award for Best Editing in A Youth Short Film
‘Mind The Gaps’

Wr/iDir: Lucia Carman Murray

Karma FlickerUp Jury Award for Youth Short Film
‘More Than Milk’

Writer/Dir/Prod: Abigail Rain Knight

FLiCKERFEST’s Festival Director BRONWYN KIDD says: “We are thrilled that the 34th Flickerfest 2025 has been such a success, with many filmmakers present to introduce their films, passionate crowds and great enthusiasm expressed for the programmes screened. It’s been great to see short films so warmly embraced by audiences across our ten-day event. I would like to congratulate all of the films selected for Flickerfest in competition this year, our jury for their dedication and all of tonight’s award winners.”

Carmen & Bolude to Premiere in Australia at the Hayden-Orpheum, Sydney

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Following sold-out screenings and a 2024 AACTA nomination for her last film, Streets of Colour, producer Yolandi Franken is even more excited about the Australian debut of her next film, Carmen & Bolude – set to premiere in Sydney on March 19th at the Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace, following its world premiere in Los Angeles.

The very first Australian feature written, directed and produced entirely by African and Latin Australian women, Yolandi says there are some similar themes between her two latest films, but they have completely different energies. “Although both have heart, Carmen & Bolude is also full of humour, and a whole lot of personality,” says Franken, “We’re getting to see life in Australia from diverse female points of view, but in a way that’s fun – and makes us laugh out loud!”

The Australian Premiere of Carmen and Bolude promises to be a glitzy, red-carpet event with sparkling wine and plenty of high-profile Australian comedians and influencers lining the cast, including David Collins (of the Umbilical Brothers), Joey Veiera (of Dora and the Lost City of Gold), Joe Avati (2024 Australian Comedian of the Year), Suzan Mutesi, Olivia Vasquez and many more.

The story is based on the real-life events of the lives of creator-writers Bolude Watson and Michela Carattini, with a little movie fiction thrown into the mix. “People always guess wrong about which parts are true and which aren’t,” says Carattini, “but I can promise that everything that happens in this movie happened to us or to other people in our lives. Ultimately, our goal is to bring people together – to laugh, cry, think – but mostly, to dance.”

The film’s music is really something spectacular, showcasing a collection of Australian Latin, African and Indigenous artists, with a knock-out score and several original songs by Sydney locals Maari Music. “I wanted my people to hear themselves,” says Watson, who was very involved in the creation of the Nigerian aspects, “to hear their music from the vocal chords of their own people.”

Now’s your chance to get a first glimpse of the magic. According to Franken, “This is a celebration of friendship, self-discovery, and all the messy, beautiful moments in between. From its laugh-out-loud comedic moments to its deeply resonant themes, this isn’t just a film—it’s a heartwarming reminder of what makes us all human.”

Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9tkscH-lLQ

Book Your Tickets today: https://www.orpheum.com.au/movie/carmen-bolude-australian-premiere

Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t forget to use the hashtag #CarmenAndBolude to join the fun.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Yolandi Franken, Producer: +61 0404 385 988 / yolandi@frankendipity.com

No Taste Like Home: A Culinary Journey with Antoni Porowski Is Coming To Disney+

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Every dish tells a story, and National Geographic is serving up an irresistible new series that celebrates the profound connection between food and heritage. No Taste Like Home with Antoni Porowski is set to premiere on February 24 on Disney+ in Australia and New Zealand, promising a mouthwatering adventure for food enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.

From the bustling streets of Italy to the lush jungles of Borneo, each episode promises an exploration of the rich heritage tied to beloved family recipes. With a star lineup that includes Emmy-winning actress Awkwafina (“A Real Bug’s Life,” “Awkwafina Is Nora From Queens”), SAG-nominated actor Henry Golding (“Crazy Rich Asians,” “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare”), Emmy-nominated actor James Marsden (“Paradise,” “Sonic the Hedgehog 3”), Academy Award^®-nominated actress Florence Pugh (“We Live in Time,” “Dune: Part Two”), Emmy-nominated actress Issa Rae (“Insecure,” “American Fiction”), and Emmy-winning actor Justin Theroux (“The Leftovers,” “Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice”), the series serves up a delectable blend of food, culture and personal discovery.

“It’s a beautiful adventure to discover our past through the great connector that is food,” said Porowski. “I’m honoured to go on this journey of self-discovery with new and old friends alongside National Geographic as we learn together about the ways different cultures celebrate food and experience their traditions.”

In each episode, Antoni and his guests uncover the unique stories behind cherished family dishes, such as the delicious origins of Theroux’s family pasta in Italy or the delectable flavours of Awkwafina’s Korean heritage. Along the way, they meet local travellers who share their own family stories and culinary traditions, culminating in a family meal that includes a classic dish from the region that will illuminate the beauty of each culture. From dining with royalty to off-roading 4x4s, each culinary adventure is filled with heartwarming moments, vibrant flavours, and surprising revelations that dive deep into the stories behind each guest’s ancestry.

Episodes include:

● “FLORENCE PUGH’S ENGLISH ODYSSEY”
Antoni helps Florence explore the origins of her family’s passion for food as they travel through Oxford, the Yorkshire coast and London. Together, they encounter delicious dishes and discover stories of ancestors whose livelihoods set in motion this embrace of food that has transcended generations.

● “AWKWAFINA’S KOREAN HOMECOMING”
Awkwafina lost her mother at a young age. Eager to help her reconnect with her South Korean culinary and ancestral heritage, Antoni curates a voyage of discovery filled with new experiences, family revelations, and evocative flavours, which combine to give Awkwafina a new perspective on her own identity.

● “JUSTIN THEROUX’S ITALIAN QUEST”
Seeking the origins of a family pasta dish, Antoni takes Justin on an Italian road trip full of delicious discoveries and surprising revelations. From chasing chickens to harvesting clams, they sample the region’s finest food and uncover how Justin’s Italian ancestry relates to a family dish that made its way across the Atlantic.

● “JAMES MARSDEN’S GERMAN DISH UP”
On the hunt for the origins of the Marsden family’s beloved chicken fried steak, Antoni takes James from the Texas plains to Germany. Together, they discover just how much the experiences of his German forebears have shaped James’ family history. While dining with royalty and scaling the Bavarian Alps, they unearth dramatic secrets behind James’ ancestors’ decision to emigrate.

● “ISSA RAE’S SENEGALESE ROYAL ROOTS”
Antoni takes Issa to her father’s homeland of Senegal, where they uncover ancestral stories of powerful women and royal connections. Through this culinary journey, Issa learns more about her family’s epic history and how it all relates to her own identity.

● “HENRY GOLDING’S MALAYSIAN ADVENTURE”
Antoni takes Henry to Borneo, where they unearth family stories and taste their way to a deeper connection with Henry’s mother’s Iban heritage. As they cook with long-lost family and newfound friends, Henry learns that genealogy in this oral tradition is about far more than storytelling.

Get ready for heartwarming stories, unforgettable flavours, and the joyous exploration of what it means to be connected to our past through food.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Disney+ / Image supplied by Disney+

Calling All Future Filmmakers & Animators

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Come down to The Artistry Festival in Darling Harbour over the weekend of 7th-9th February and join world leading smartphone filmmaking, animation and stop motion workshops for all ages plus all under 18s can join the 24 hour film festival and have their film screened on the big screen at Darling Harbour.

The Artistry 24-Hour Kids’ Smartphone Film Festival invites young creators aged 6-17 to craft their own short film in just 24 hours using only a smartphone or tablet. In line with the theme of our festival – The Artistry – this festival encourages kids to explore the presence of rich cultural diversity in Australia, including the Darling Harbour precinct as reflected in the people and other infrastructures like parks, restaurants, banks or any other environments. This festival is an opportunity to showcase their creativity through accessible and resourceful storytelling.

And ready to turn your phone or tablet into a creative powerhouse? Join our Smart Phone Filmmaking Courses and explore:

* Shooting professional films and documentaries like a pro
* Creating your own animations
* Making stop-motion masterpieces

No experience needed—just your imagination and a passion for storytelling. Start your creative journey today and leave with skills (and films!) you’ll be proud of.

The courses will be held by the world’s leading smartphone film festival, SF3, alongside acclaimed Film Producer, Yolandi Franken. Teachers include award winning smartphone filmmakers and animator, Atticus Gough, whose credits include Battle Kitty and We Will Be Monsters.

There will be two free smartphone introductory sessions for you to get a taster of the amazing possibilities of smartphone filmmaking with our Lights, Camera, ACTION! Ever dreamed of making your own movie? Now’s your chance! Join our FREE Mobile Phone Filmmaking Introductory Course and urn your phone into a filmmaking studio and create a film that could wow at festivals! Open to ages 6-18. Your story starts here—don’t miss out!”

Other courses: Smartphone Filmmaking 101, Documentary Filmmaking on Smartphones, Stop Motion, Animation and a Walking Videography Adventure, where we will be inviting participants to walk around the festival with us and capture cinematic magic with our guidance.

On Friday 7th February at 6pm, the inaugural The Artistry 24 Hour Film Festival opens and all under 18s are invited to come down to the Darling Harbour precinct and make a short film for our festival. Focused on the theme of the harbour, water, or foreshore, this exciting event encourages kids to explore their natural surroundings and showcase their creativity through accessible, resourceful storytelling. Entries close Saturday 8th at 6pm and throughout the day on Sunday 9th, the entries will play on the big screen at the festival, culminating in an awards presentation hosted by Actor/Author/Producer, Suzan Mutesi.

Prizes are Best Film 6-11 Years old, Best Film 12-17 Years old, Most Creative Film 6-11 Years old, Most Creative Film 12-17 Years old and Best Performance.

The Artistry Festival – Get ready to experience a vibrant explosion of colour, sound and flavour as The Artistry takes over Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour from Fri 7 – Sun 9 Feb 2025. Believe us when we say this isn’t just your regular festival – it’s a global village come to life! Immerse yourself in diverse cultures, savour mouthwatering dishes from around the world, groove to infectious music and witness breathtaking performances. From dazzling cultural parades to electrifying live
music featuring The Artistry promises an unforgettable weekend for all. Festival highlights include a concert featuring The Justice Crew, international pavilions, food stalls and more.

To sign up for the 24 film festival or find out more – email sf3@sf3.com.au

To register for one of the filmmaking workshops: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/the-artistry-presentsfilm-making-workshops-tickets-1206252787559?aff=SF3

CONTACT FOR INTERVIEWS: Angela Blake sf3@sf3.com.au or 0406655013

Get Ready, Australia! Amy Adams’ “NIGHTBITCH” Is Hitting Disney+ in Australia & NZ This January

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If you’ve been craving a movie that’s equal parts hilarious, surreal, and downright mind-bending, we’ve got incredible news for you. Searchlight Pictures’ “NIGHTBITCH”, starring the one and only Amy Adams, is coming to Disney+ in Australia and New Zealand on January 24, 2025—and it’s going to be a ride you won’t want to miss.

What’s “NIGHTBITCH” About?

Imagine this: A super successful woman puts her career on pause to be a stay-at-home mum. Seems normal, right? Wrong. Things take a wild turn as her domestic life transforms into something downright bizarre. Let’s just say it’s got dark comedy, surreal twists, and a whole lot of “what is happening right now?!” vibes.

The movie is based on Rachel Yoder’s acclaimed debut novel, and with Marielle Heller (of Can You Ever Forgive Me? fame) writing and directing, you already know it’s going to deliver big time.

Amy Adams Is Crushing It (Again!)

Let’s talk about Amy Adams for a sec. She’s already a six-time Academy Award® nominee, and her performance in NIGHTBITCH just scored her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role – Musical or Comedy. Yep, she’s that good.

Oh, and she’s not doing it alone. Joining her are Scoot McNairy and twins Arleigh and Emmett Snowden, who are making their big-screen debut. How’s that for star power?

Why You’ll Love It

NIGHTBITCH isn’t just a movie—it’s an experience. It dives deep into the ups and downs of motherhood, identity crises, and all the weird, unexpected things life throws your way. Think satire, dark humour, and a touch of fantasy, all wrapped up in one insane package.

Mark Your Diaries: January 24, 2025

Circle the date, set a reminder, or tie a string around your finger—whatever you need to do, make sure you’re ready when NIGHTBITCH drops exclusively on Disney+. This one’s going to have everyone talking.

P.S. Disney+ Has You Covered

Worried about the kids accidentally stumbling upon a movie with mature themes? No stress. Disney+ has parental controls for days. With PIN-protected profiles and Kids Profiles, you can make sure everyone’s streaming what’s right for them.

Don’t Miss Out

Whether you’re an Amy Adams stan, a fan of quirky indie films, or just someone who loves a good laugh with a side of “WTF,” NIGHTBITCH is for you. So grab your popcorn, get comfy, and prepare to have your mind blown when it lands on Disney+ this January.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Disney+ / Image supplied by Disney+

Uncover the Power of Love and Time: Win Passes to We Live in Time Courtesy of FilmCentral Magazine!

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FilmCentral Magazine is giving away movie passes to We Live in Time, thanks to Studio Canal Australia! To win tickets, make sure to follow our official Facebook page and watch out for the promo!

Official Synopsis

Almut (Florence Pugh) and Tobias (Andrew Garfield) are brought together in a surprise encounter that changes their lives. Through snapshots of their life together – falling for each other, building a home, becoming a family – a difficult truth is revealed that rocks its foundation. As they embark on a path challenged by the limits of time, they learn to cherish each moment of the unconventional route their love story has taken, in filmmaker John Crowley’s decade-spanning, deeply moving romance.

Release Date: In Cinemas January 16

Duration: 108 minutes

Classification: M| Censorship Advice: Coarse language, nudity and sex scenes

Journey to the Stars with Pixar’s Elio – Coming Soon to Australian Cinemas

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What if the thing you were searching for found you first? That’s the big question posed by Disney and Pixar’s upcoming animated adventure, Elio. This hilariously heartfelt misadventure is set to transport audiences to the dazzling reaches of the galaxy, where one unlikely Earthling becomes an interstellar hero. With a teaser trailer and poster now available, fans can catch a glimpse of this exciting journey before it launches into Australian cinemas on June 19, 2025.

A Story That’s Out of This World

Elio introduces us to a boy like no other—a dreamer with a big imagination and an even bigger love for aliens. Played by Yonas Kibreab, Elio’s life takes a wild turn when he’s suddenly beamed aboard an otherworldly meeting place known as the Communiverse. This vibrant interplanetary hub is home to beings from galaxies far and wide. But there’s one big twist: the aliens mistakenly believe that Elio is Earth’s leader!

As Elio tries to navigate his new role, he’ll encounter extraordinary creatures, form unexpected friendships, and face challenges that test his courage and heart. Along the way, he’ll have to protect Earth’s reputation while chasing his ultimate dream of connecting with the cosmos.

An Out-of-This-World Cast

Bringing this cosmic tale to life is a stellar voice cast:

Yonas Kibreab stars as Elio, the earnest and adventurous protagonist.
Zoe Saldaña lends her voice to Aunt Olga, Elio’s fiercely protective yet loving guardian.
Remy Edgerly voices Glordon, a quirky alien ally.
Brad Garrett takes on the role of Lord Grigon, a larger-than-life galactic leader.
Jameela Jamil portrays Ambassador Questa, a poised and enigmatic figure in the Communiverse.
Shirley Henderson voices OOOOO, whose name is as mysterious as their character!

The Creative Minds Behind Elio

Behind the scenes, Elio boasts a powerhouse team of directors and producers who are no strangers to tugging at heartstrings and sparking imaginations.

Madeline Sharafian (Burrow) brings her unique storytelling style to the director’s chair.
Domee Shi, the creative mind behind Pixar’s Turning Red and Bao, joins the team with her knack for blending heart and humour.
Adrian Molina, co-screenwriter and co-director of the Oscar-winning Coco, infuses the film with emotional depth and cultural richness.
Mary Alice Drumm, associate producer of Coco, steps in as producer to guide the movie’s development.

Together, this dream team promises a movie that’s as visually dazzling as it is emotionally resonant.

A Visual Feast Awaits

The teaser trailer gives us a first look at Elio’s stunning animation and imaginative world-building. From the sprawling, technicolour landscapes of the Communiverse to the unique designs of its alien inhabitants, Pixar’s trademark attention to detail is on full display. Each frame bursts with colour, energy, and creativity, making this one of 2025’s most visually exciting releases.

The accompanying poster adds to the intrigue, featuring Elio gazing up at a swirling galaxy of stars, planets, and alien lifeforms. It’s a perfect snapshot of the film’s sense of wonder and adventure, teasing a journey filled with surprises at every turn.

Themes That Resonate Across Galaxies

Beyond the stunning visuals and comedic escapades, Elio explores universal themes of identity, belonging, and courage. At its heart, the film is a coming-of-age story about finding your place in the universe—both literally and figuratively. As Elio grapples with his new role as Earth’s leader, he learns the importance of embracing who he is, forming connections, and standing up for what matters most.

For kids, it’s an empowering message about the strength found in individuality. For adults, it’s a nostalgic reminder of the big dreams and boundless curiosity we all had as children.

Countdown to Launch

Elio is set to take Australian audiences on a thrilling intergalactic adventure when it hits cinemas on June 19, 2025. As we countdown to the big day, the teaser trailer and poster offer a tantalising glimpse of what’s to come. With its heartfelt story, stunning animation, and unforgettable characters, this Pixar masterpiece promises to be a must-watch for families and fans alike.

So, buckle up and get ready for the ride of a lifetime—Elio is about to take you to infinity and beyond!

Did You Know?

Elio is Pixar’s first film to fully explore the concept of alien life.
The Communiverse features hundreds of unique alien designs, each with its own quirky personality!
Director Madeline Sharafian drew inspiration from her own childhood dreams of outer space.

Make sure to mark your calendars, and don’t miss this out-of-this-world adventure!

Disney+ Unveils Goosebumps: The Vanishing – A Chilling New Season Premiering January 2025

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Disney+ has announced the return of its thrilling anthology series, Goosebumps, with the newest season titled Goosebumps: The Vanishing, set to premiere on 10 January 2025. Fans can look forward to a suspenseful journey across all eight episodes, which will be available for streaming upon release. The recently dropped trailer and key artwork offer a sneak peek at Emmy® Award nominee David Schwimmer, who takes on the intriguing role of Anthony Brewer, a former botany professor steeped in science and mystery.

Goosebumps, one of Scholastic’s most iconic book series, is renowned worldwide as a best-selling phenomenon. This new season taps into some of the series’ most beloved and eerie tales, blending classic elements from books like Stay Out of the Basement, The Haunted Car, Monster Blood, The Girl Who Cried Monster, The Ghost Next Door, Welcome to Camp Nightmare, and more, creating a spine-tingling tapestry of horror and adventure.

Season Overview
In Goosebumps: The Vanishing, we follow twins Cece and Devin Brewer as they head to Gravesend, Brooklyn, to spend the summer with their divorced father, played by Schwimmer. Yet their holiday quickly turns dark when they realise that a mysterious force is lurking, and secrets buried in Gravesend surfacing again. As they investigate, Cece, Devin, and their friends – Alex, CJ, and Frankie – uncover clues about the eerie disappearance of four teenagers in 1994, plunging them into a web of danger and supernatural intrigue.

Cast and Production
Alongside Schwimmer, the cast includes Ana Ortiz as Jen, Jayden Bartels as Cece, Sam McCarthy as Devin, Elijah M. Cooper as CJ, Galilea La Salvia as Frankie, Francesca Noel as Alex, and Stony Blyden as Trey. With a diverse ensemble cast and fresh, youthful faces, the season is set to captivate both long-time fans and a new generation.

A powerhouse team helms the series. Goosebumps: The Vanishing was developed by Nicholas Stoller and Rob Letterman, with Hilary Winston as showrunner. Stoller, Letterman, and Winston also serve as executive producers, joined by Neal H. Moritz, Iole Lucchese, and Caitlin Friedman from Scholastic Entertainment, Pavun Shetty, Conor Welch, Erin O’Malley, Karl Frankenfield, and James Eagan.

As Disney+ builds upon its commitment to quality family-friendly thrillers, Goosebumps: The Vanishing mixes nostalgia and fresh horror, drawing audiences back into the heart of the Goosebumps universe.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Disney+ . Check out the trailer below: