A Complete Unknown: Timothée Chalamet Electrifies as Bob Dylan in Award-Winning Biopic – Now Streaming on Disney+

Searchlight Pictures’ critically acclaimed biopic A Complete Unknown is now available to stream on Disney+, bringing the transformative early years of music legend Bob Dylan to life in a gripping, cinematic masterpiece.

Directed by Academy Award® nominee James Mangold, the film dives deep into the turbulent yet inspiring cultural landscape of 1960s America. At its heart is a mesmerising performance by Timothée Chalamet, who not only portrays Dylan with uncanny intensity but also performs his music, capturing the spirit and sound of the folk icon’s rise to fame.

Certified Fresh and dubbed Certified Hot” by Rotten Tomatoes™, A Complete Unknown has already generated major awards buzz. The Hollywood Reporter hailed Chalamet’s portrayal as an electrifying, transformative performance,” cementing his place as one of the most versatile actors of his generation.

🎬 Film Synopsis

New York, 1961. A 19-year-old musician from Minnesota arrives in the heart of Greenwich Village—a place pulsing with poetry, protest, and possibility. With little more than a guitar and a voice that would come to define a generation, Bob Dylan finds himself surrounded by folk legends like Woody Guthrie (Scoot McNairy), Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro), and Pete Seeger (Edward Norton). These relationships—and a daring leap into electric sound—spark a musical revolution that forever alters the global landscape.

The film culminates in Dylan’s now-iconic Newport Folk Festival performance, where his electrified set stunned audiences and marked a seismic shift in modern music history.

🌟 A Stellar Cast

Joining Chalamet in this compelling ensemble are:

  • Edward Norton as Pete Seeger

  • Elle Fanning as Sylvie Russo

  • Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez

  • Boyd Holbrook as Johnny Cash

  • Scoot McNairy as Woody Guthrie

🎥 Behind the Scenes

A Complete Unknown is co-written by James Mangold and Jay Cocks, and produced by a powerhouse team including Fred Berger, Alex Heineman, Bob Bookman, Peter Jaysen, Alan Gasmer, Jeff Rosen, and Chalamet himself.


Whether you’re a lifelong Dylan fan or discovering his story for the first time, A Complete Unknown is a must-watch for lovers of music, history, and masterful storytelling.

👉 Now streaming exclusively on Disney+.

Heartfelt Film ‘My Eyes’ to Make Emotional Australian Debut on May 28, 2025

FanForce Films proudly announces the theatrical release of MY EYES on May 28, 2025. Inspired by true events and led by actor/writer/producer Tsu Shan Chambers (SUKA, UNSOUND), this heartfelt Australian story spotlights the remarkable journey of a mother determined to save her daughter’s eyesight—and the broader social impact of living with vision impairment.

MY EYES follows Alana (Chambers), an Optometrist whose life is upended when her young daughter is diagnosed with a hereditary eye condition. Desperate for a stem cell donor, Alana must confront her past—and a life-changing connection to Nico (Eduardo Ávila Sánchez), setting in motion a story of family, cultural identity, and resilience. Adam Garcia (COYOTE UGLY, BOOTMEN) portrays Alana’s devoted husband Sam, and Kieu Chinh (THE JOY LUCK CLUB, THE SYMPATHIZER) appears as Alana’s protective mother.

Produced by Wise Goat Productions in collaboration with an international and diverse creative team, MY EYES highlights social change through its authentic depiction of the vision-impaired community and the power of inclusive storytelling. The film has attracted support from organisations including Vision Australia, the International Blind Sports Federation, Optometry Australia, and many other social impact partners. Premiere fundraisers across Australia—tied to the film’s opening week—will help generate awareness and funds for eye health advocacy and disability inclusion initiatives.

Quote from Tsu Shan Chambers (Actor, Writer, Producer, and Practicing Optometrist):

“MY EYES is deeply personal to me—growing up with multiple cultural influences, training as an Optometrist, and experiencing close connections with people affected by vision loss. It’s a story I’ve wanted to share for years, and I’m overjoyed to finally bring it to audiences in a way that sparks empathy and positive change.

As an independent producer, it is important to me to be able to bring to the screen an authentic local story that will take Australian culture and values to a global audience. We have so many stories to share and need more opportunities like this to bring them to life”.

Quote from Adam Garcia (Actor):

“Even though I’m now based in the UK, there was never a doubt in my mind about joining MY EYES. The film’s heart and the team’s dedication to representing meaningful stories made it impossible to say no. I’m thrilled for audiences to see the beauty and realism we’ve created.”

Quote from Eduardo Ávila Sánchez (Actor):

“As someone who understands life with a disability, I hope MY EYES encourages everyone to look past labels and assumptions. This film is about celebrating our abilities, our families, and our determination to make every moment count.”

Vision Australia also voiced support, with a spokesperson adding:

“Stories like MY EYES are essential in showing the resilience and achievements of people living with blindness or low vision. We’re proud to see an authentic portrayal on screen and look forward to the impact it will have on raising awareness for eye health.”

MY EYES also features an original track by Australian sensation Dami Im. Known for her acclaimed run at Eurovision 2016—where she won Semi-Final 2, secured the top Jury Vote, and finished second overall—Dami Im (2013 winner of THE X FACTOR AUSTRALIA and Destiny Rescue Ambassador) lends a moving musical backdrop to Alana’s journey of self-discovery.

Early festival appearances, including at the Gold Coast Film Festival, are scheduled prior to the nationwide release on May 28, 2025. A unique rollout of screenings will follow across Australia and New Zealand, featuring special Q&A events as well as Fan screenings—empowering communities to bring MY EYES to their local cinema. Tickets and more details can be found at Fan-Force.com/ MyEyes.

Make a Splash with Leo the Sea Lion Pup in Disneynature’s Sea Lions of the Galápagos, Streaming April 22 on Disney+

Dive in with handsome sea lion pup Leo in Disneynature’s all-new feature film “Sea Lions of the Galápagos,” streaming on Disney+ beginning April 22. Narrated by Brendan Fraser, the stunning feature film explores the fascinating world of the Galapagos alongside a host of creatures from land and sea. A trailer, key art and film stills are now available to download and share.

CONSERVATION INITIATIVE

In celebration of Disneynature’s “Sea Lions of the Galápagos,” Disney Conservation Fund is supporting Conservation International, working alongside local organisations to connect more than 1,500 youth with the beauty of the Galápagos and inspire action to reduce ocean plastics for the benefit of marine life like sea lions.

SOUNDTRACK

The “Sea Lions of the Galápagos” Original Score Soundtrack composed by Raphaelle Thibaut will be available on streaming services April 22.

In “Sea Lions of the Galápagos,” Leo eventually leaves his mother’s colony to find his own home following swimming lessons, fishing expeditions and some growing up. Male sea lions must fight to earn the best spots, and only the strongest will become beachmasters. Leo’s lifelong quest is fraught with challenges and filled with new encounters with an array of creatures, from marine iguanas and racer snakes to yellow fin tuna and huge Galapagos sharks. The archipelago is Leo’s playground—overland and underwater—but he must stay vigilant to find his place in the world. Disneynature’s “Sea Lions of the Galápagos” is directed by Wilson, co-directed by Keith Scholey, and produced by Wilson, Scholey and Roy Conli, the adventure features music by composer Raphaelle Thibaut.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Disney + (photo supplied)

The Inner West Film Fest 2025 Unveils Its Complete Line-Up: What to Expect

From April 9-17, a vibrant selection of exciting new films will screen during the third iteration of Sydney’s always buzzing Inner West Film Fest.

“We’re excited to be back for our third year with some of our best films yet! We can’t wait for audiences in the Inner West to engage with these incredible movies, many of which have direct connections to the area,” Dov Kornits, director, Inner West Film Fest.

Back for its third big year, the Inner West Film Fest will roll out in fine fashion from April 9-17, nestled comfortably at its home of Dendy Newtown with a diverse and utterly fascinating selection of feature film premieres from Australia and around the world. The full programme for the Inner West Film Fest 2025 has just been announced, and it’s jammed-to-busting with cinematic riches.

(Flat Girls)

Launching the big screen festivities on April 9 at 6:00pm will be the affecting Thai film Flat Girls, presented by the Royal Thai Consulate-General. From producers Jira “Keng” Maligool and Vanridee “One” Pongsittisak, the creative forces behind the surprise international hit How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies, Flat Girls is a sensitively written and artfully directed coming-of-age tale by gifted debutante Jirassaya Wongsutin. Part of a new wave of Thai cinema, Flat Girls is an authentic and heartfelt modern story that delicately explores the complexity and dynamism of teenage friendships.

When Belgian director Agnes Varda passed away in 2019, world cinema lost one of its most vital and impassioned female voices. In celebration of this inestimable talent, this year’s Inner West Film Fest will feature a special 25-year anniversary screening of Agnes Varda’s acclaimed 2000 documentary The Gleaners & I on 35mm film, supported by the iconic Inner West gleaners at Reverse Garbage.

(An Unfinished Film)

There are also exciting new films aplenty. An absurdist, surrealist trip that literally defies genres and simple explanation, Universal Language is Canadian director Matthew Rankin’s follow-up to his bizarre gender-bending 2019 debut The Twentieth Century. Shanghai director Lou Ye (Suzhou River, Mystery) revisits the ugly spectre of Covid head-on with his new drama An Unfinished Film, which has been banned from screening in China and is one of the hottest selling tix of the fest, almost sold out 12 hours after going on sale!

A visually stunning and deeply poetic treatise on faith, fundamentalism, community and family, The King Tide is the daring and provocative new drama from bold Canadian director Christian Sparkes, starring Clayne Crawford and Inner West’s own Aden Young. Australian writer/director Luke Eve – another one time Inner Westie – and Spanish actress Maria Albinana complete the tale of their complex relationship with the feature film UnCancelled, which follows their popular web series Cancelled and ReCancelled. Co-star Socratis Otto will be on hand to introduce this bittersweet and uplifting new film for its big screen premiere.

(Who by Fire)

Screening on National Canada Film Day (it’s a thing!), April 16, and presented by the Canadian Consulate is winner of the Berlinale Generation 14plus Grand Prix, Who by Fire, a searing coming-of-age drama with a decidedly cinematic (and Leonard Cohen-esque) edge.

(Future Council)

Non-fiction filmmaking is also well and truly in play at the Inner West Film Fest, with a host of new docos set to captivate and provoke audiences. With idiosyncratic indie-hero director Alex Ross Perry at the helm, and one of the most unconventional bands of the 1990s as its subject, Pavements – about lo-fi godheads Pavement – is certainly not your standard music documentary. In his powerful new impact doco Future Council, Aussie actor/director Damon Gameau (That Sugar Film and 2040) takes a group of eight international kids on a thrilling road trip across Europe where they charmingly get right in the faces of businesses and leaders in search of solutions to our greatest ecological challenges.

Documentary Sunlight: YES focuses on the latest work by artists SymbioticA, a collective internationally recognised as the first to grow meat in a lab. Narrated by AI, this film follows their latest artistic experiment, trying to grow food without sunlight or shit! Can they do it? Screening alongside Sunlight: YES is a special program of films made using Unreal Engine, including Dr Gregory Ferris and Dr Liz Giuffre’s Spirits of the Hoey and Jack Manning Bancroft’s Imagine, followed by an insightful panel with the filmmakers.

(Moonrise Over Knights Hill)

The Inner West Film Fest will close out in high style on April 17 by highlighting Australia’s exciting new filmmaking talent with the dazzling entrants in The Short Film Showcase, which will then lead into the World Premiere screening of 2023 Short Film Showcase winner, James Robert Woods’ feature debut Moonrise Over Knights Hill, a tense drama about a group of former high school friends who reunite with their partners for a luxury weekend getaway, with unforgettable results.

Boasting a sizzling collection of must-see films, the Inner West Film Fest is all set to raise the excitement levels even further in one of Australia’s most exciting cultural and artistic hubs. Get ready to take a true cinematic trip…

Get your tickets now at https://www.innerwestfilmfest.com.au/

Star-Studded Celebration: Carmen & Bolude Debuts at Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace

FilmCentral Magazine had the honour of attending the Australian red carpet premiere of Carmen & Bolude at the prestigious Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace on March 19th. Following its successful world premiere in Los Angeles, the Australian debut was a spectacular celebration of cinema, drawing an impressive lineup of celebrities, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts.

The event was a star-studded affair, with notable figures from the entertainment industry gracing the red carpet. Producer Yolandi Franken, along with the film’s creator-writers Bolude Watson and Michela Carattini, took centre stage, expressing their excitement and gratitude for the film’s reception. Among the many esteemed guests were comedian David Collins of The Umbilical Brothers, actor Joey Vieira known for his role in Dora and the Lost City of Gold, and many more. Celebrated actress and influencer Suzan Mutesi added to the glamour of the night.

The film Carmen & Bolude has been generating significant buzz within the industry. Co-written by Bolude Watson and Michela Carattini, the film is a testament to the power of storytelling and cultural exploration. With its successful Los Angeles premiere setting a high benchmark, anticipation for the Australian screening was immense. The film did not disappoint, taking audiences on a deeply engaging cinematic journey that was met with enthusiastic applause.

The Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace, one of Sydney’s most iconic theatres, provided the perfect setting for the premiere. Known for its classic Art Deco architecture and rich history, the venue added an air of elegance and grandeur to the evening. The energy on the red carpet was palpable, with attendees posing for photos, conducting interviews, and sharing their excitement for the film. FilmCentral Magazine had the privilege of capturing the essence of the night, from the dazzling red carpet moments to the heartfelt conversations among guests.

Photographer Mohan Raj beautifully documented the night, taking stunning images of the event. These photographs reflect the excitement and grandeur of the evening, preserving the magic of the film’s Australian premiere.

As Carmen & Bolude continues its journey across international film festivals and theatrical releases, its Australian debut marks a significant milestone. The film’s success highlights the growing recognition of diverse storytelling and strengthens Australia’s presence in the global entertainment industry. FilmCentral Magazine is proud to have been part of this remarkable event and looks forward to following the film’s journey. Check out the photos below courtesy of Mohan Raj:

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

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+

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

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

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+

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+