FilmCentral Magazine

A Night to Remember: Bump Cast Celebrates Final Season at Barangaroo Screening

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Photo Credit: Dave Choo

Last Wednesday evening, December 4, the stars aligned over Sydney’s Barangaroo as fans and creators of the Stan Original Series Bump gathered for a heartfelt send-off. The iconic show, which has left an indelible mark on the television landscape, is nearing its end, with the fifth and final season set to debut on Boxing Day.

The event, hosted at the whimsical Mov’in Bed outdoor cinema, delivered a mix of nostalgia and celebration under the summer sky. Fans were treated to a double-episode screening and an engaging Q&A session hosted by none other than Dylan Alcott, whose effortless charm and cheeky banter brought the evening to life. Alcott’s playful exchanges, particularly with Paula Garcia, added a vibrant energy, leaving attendees in stitches while celebrating a series that has become a cultural cornerstone.

A Celebration of Storytelling

The farewell was a fitting tribute to a series that redefined family drama with its wit, authenticity, and heart. Claudia Karvan, both a lead actress and producer, reflected on the journey with evident pride:

“It is Kelsey Munro and the writing team—Tim, Nick, Shanti, and all the writers we’ve had over the five seasons. Beautiful writing, a sense of place and authenticity, and a connection between the amazing cast. I feel like a very proud TV mum.”

Karvan’s portrayal of Angie, a complex and fiercely loving mother, has been central to the show’s appeal. Her remarks underscored what made Bump special: its ability to balance humour and pathos while navigating the chaos of modern family life.

Angus Sampson, who played the affably flawed Dom, echoed her sentiments, expressing gratitude to the audience, crew, and Stan for their unwavering support over five years.

“I’m humbled to be a small part of this family,” he shared.

A Story That Resonates Globally

When Bump first premiered in January 2021, it introduced audiences to Oly (Nathalie Morris), a high-achieving teenager whose world turns upside down when she unexpectedly becomes a mother. What followed was a raw and tender exploration of family dynamics, charting the ripple effects of Oly’s unplanned parenthood.

The show’s brilliance lay in its relatability. From the intergenerational clashes between parents and children to the complexities of relationships, Bump masterfully blended humour with the poignancy of real life.

Its success was so profound that it spawned a spin-off, Year Of, in June 2023, expanding the universe with new stories and characters while maintaining the heart and humour fans had come to love.

An Emotional Final Season

The upcoming season promises to raise the stakes, tackling themes of love, loss, and resilience. One storyline, involving Angie’s battle with cancer, is poised to be particularly gut-wrenching.

Karvan noted that this season would push boundaries even further, offering a conclusion that honours the show’s commitment to authenticity.

“Bump has always been about capturing the messy, beautiful realities of family life,” she said.

With each character’s journey coming full circle, the finale is set to be a poignant farewell for audiences who have grown alongside them.

A Night to Remember

The farewell event featured the show’s powerhouse ensemble, including Nathalie Morris, Carlos Sanson Jr., Ava Cannon, Christian Byers, Steph Tisdell, and more. Co-creator Kelsey Munro and producers John and Dan Edwards joined in the celebration, reflecting on the incredible journey from concept to cultural phenomenon.

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the Q&A session, where fans were treated to behind-the-scenes stories and heartfelt goodbyes. Dylan Alcott’s quick wit and Paula Garcia’s candid anecdotes kept the crowd engaged, striking a perfect balance between laughter and sentiment.

A Legacy Beyond the Screen

Bump will be remembered not just as a television series but as a cultural touchstone. Its sharp writing, nuanced performances, and distinctly authentic voice have resonated with audiences worldwide, offering a window into the complexities of family and relationships.

As the final season approaches, fans can expect a rollercoaster of emotions—tears, laughter, and everything in between. While saying goodbye is never easy, the legacy of Bump ensures that its impact will endure long after the final episode fades to black.

So, mark your calendars for Boxing Day. It’s time to say farewell to a series that didn’t just tell a story—it became part of ours.

Dive Into Interior Chinatown – All Episodes Now Streaming on Disney+!

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The Disney+ Original series Interior Chinatown, starring Jimmy O. Yang, Ronny Chieng, and Chloe Bennet, is out now. Adapted from Charles Yu’s award-winning novel, the series premiered on 19 November, with all ten episodes available exclusively on the platform.

Interior Chinatown follows Willis Wu, played by Jimmy O. Yang, a background character living within the confines of a police procedural world called Black & White. Consigned to the backdrop, Willis spends his days waiting tables and performing as a “Generic Asian Man,” all while nursing aspirations of escaping his predetermined role and becoming the hero of his own story. However, when he inadvertently witnesses a crime, Willis finds himself entangled in a web of criminal intrigue in Chinatown. As he unravels the mystery, he also begins to explore his family’s hidden past, grappling with identity and belonging in a world that consistently casts him as the “background extra.”

This limited series is brought to life by an impressive creative team, with Taika Waititi serving as executive producer and director of the pilot. Charles Yu, the book’s author, also took the reins as series creator and showrunner, ensuring that his original story retains its distinct voice on screen. Alongside Yu and Waititi, the series boasts an impressive roster of executive producers, including Dan Lin and Lindsey Liberatore for Rideback, and Jeff Skoll, Miura Kite, and Elsie Choi for Participant, with production helmed by 20th Television.

The series also stars Lisa Gilroy, Sullivan Jones, Archie Kao, and Diana Lin, rounding out a diverse cast that brings both comedic timing and dramatic depth to this multi-layered story. Given Disney+’s robust parental controls, Interior Chinatown will be accessible to a wide audience, with adjustable access limits on mature content and PIN-protected profiles. Families can rest assured that Disney+ remains a safe and controlled viewing experience for all ages.

With Interior Chinatown, Disney+ continues to expand its repertoire of thought-provoking content, promising an engaging blend of humour, drama, and introspection on themes of identity and representation. This fresh take on the Asian American experience is set to resonate deeply with audiences, offering a new kind of storytelling that delves into the universal desire to be seen and heard.

Check out the trailer below:

Joker: Folie à Deux Movie Review: A Bold but Disjointed Sequel Caught Between Musical Fantasy and Gritty Drama

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Editorial credit: Joe Seer / Shutterstock.com

Joker: Folie à Deux takes a bold swing by blending psychological thriller with jukebox musical elements, directed once again by Todd Phillips. While the original Joker (2019) struck a powerful chord with audiences by delving into the unraveling mind of Arthur Fleck and the disintegration of societal norms, this sequel opts to add musical numbers and a love story that shifts the tone dramatically. While the idea of reimagining the Joker’s universe with a musical twist might sound fresh, it ultimately detracts from the gritty essence that made the first film so impactful, leaving Joker: Folie à Deux feeling disjointed and inconsistent.

The plot centres on Arthur Fleck’s struggle with his fractured identity, now facing a darker journey through Arkham State Hospital. Here, he meets Lee Quinzel (Lady Gaga), a character loosely based on Harley Quinn, adding a new romantic and psychological dimension to his arc. Joaquin Phoenix’s reprisal of the Joker showcases his dedication to the role, but it lacks the raw intensity of his original performance. In the 2019 film, Fleck was a man on the edge, which Phoenix brought to life with chilling intensity. However, his portrayal is overshadowed by a script that prioritises musical and courtroom drama over psychological depth. Lady Gaga delivers a strong performance as Quinzel, giving her character an air of vulnerability mingled with chaos. Yet, even her powerful presence is diluted by the film’s attempt to marry the thrill of a psychological drama with the flair of a musical.

The relationship between Joker and Quinzel is arguably the most compelling aspect of the movie, yet it’s vastly underutilised. The chemistry between Phoenix and Gaga is electric, capturing the complexity of a twisted, co-dependent love that borders on madness. Unfortunately, these moments are few and far between, bogged down by unnecessary musical interludes and a prolonged courtroom subplot. These elements give the film a fragmented feel, often detracting from the dark narrative audiences expect from the Joker’s world.

The musical numbers themselves are vibrant and well-executed, with the choreography and singing offering a temporary escape from the sluggish plot. But while these numbers are visually captivating, they feel misplaced within the Joker’s universe, adding little value to the storyline. The shift from psychological tension to musical fantasy feels jarring and makes the film’s narrative arc feel awkward and drawn out.

Clocking in at over two hours, Joker: Folie à Deux feels unnecessarily long, especially given the lack of a substantial plot. The courtroom scenes and rehashed themes from the original film create a sense of redundancy, making it feel like a spin-off rather than a continuation. For fans of Joker, this sequel may feel like a missed opportunity, as it fails to push Arthur’s character into new psychological territory or offer any real exploration of the world he inhabits. Instead, Joker: Folie à Deux is a film caught between two genres, unable to fully commit to either, leaving viewers with an unbalanced experience that’s both frustrating and oddly shallow.

In summary, Joker: Folie à Deux has highlights, especially in its performance and production quality. Still, the film feels like an unnecessary add-on that lacks the emotional and psychological punch of the original. For audiences looking for the intense character study that made Joker iconic, this sequel may leave a bitter taste, as it strays too far from the raw, gripping tone that initially defined Arthur Fleck’s descent into madness.

Rating: 2.5/5 Stars

Dendy Cinemas and NDTV Unite for Australasia’s Largest Celebration of Indian Cinema

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The Australian Centre for Indian Cinema has announced plans to launch Australasia’s largest celebration of Indian cinema with the National Indian Film Festival of Australia (NIFFA). Running from 13-16 February 2025, this landmark event will be the first of its kind, bringing the vibrant spirit of Indian cinema to audiences across seven Australian cities.

In a bold initiative to bring Indian cinema to the forefront, Dendy Cinemas, NDTV, and Val Morgan have joined as key stakeholders. With Dendy’s extensive network of cinemas, NDTV’s reach as a major Indian news media platform, and Val Morgan’s expertise in cinema advertising, NIFFA is positioned to be a cinematic extravaganza of unprecedented scale.

Anupam Sharma, a respected filmmaker and Australia’s foremost expert on Indian cinema, conceived the festival and will lead its organisation. Sharma is collaborating with Peter Castaldi, an industry veteran with a storied background in film festival management, who will serve as the festival director. Both Sharma and Castaldi bring decades of experience and were instrumental in establishing some of Australia’s first Indian film festivals back in the 1990s.

NIFFA promises a weekend packed with film screenings and cultural events in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, the Gold Coast, Darwin, and Hobart. An as-yet-undisclosed city will host the festival’s opening night party, featuring exclusive screenings, workshops, panel discussions on topics such as co-productions, investment, and cross-cultural collaboration.

Alongside screenings, NIFFA will also offer development grants for Australian screen projects with connections to Indian culture, furthering ties between the two countries’ film industries. An awards segment will also be included, with honourees to be announced in November.

With NIFFA, Australia is set to experience the colour, drama, and creativity that defines Indian cinema, marking a new era in cultural and cinematic collaboration between India and Australasia.

Sanjay Pugalia, NDTV’s Director and Editor-in-Chief, said: “As NDTV expands globally and the Indian diaspora flourishes across Australasia, partnering with this premier celebration of Indian cinema felt like a perfect fit. We at NDTV are happy to amplify the festival’s spirit worldwide, bringing it to Indian communities across the globe and celebrating the ever-growing impact of Indian filmmaking on the international stage.”

Sharon Strickland, CEO of Dendy Cinema, said: “Dendy Cinema is honoured to partner with the National Indian Film Festival of Australia, bringing the best of Indian cinema to audiences across Australia. With a resurgence of Indian films making a strong impact at the global box office, this collaboration highlights our commitment to showcasing diverse and culturally significant stories. We are excited to support this festival, celebrating the vibrant creativity and growing influence of Indian filmmaking on the world stage.”

Sharma said: “Australia was craving for a professional national celebration of Indian cinema, and it is an absolute honour to receive the support of mainstream Australia with Dendy as our major partner and NDTV as media partner. This will be one of the rare film festivals which will be produced by filmmakers.

“One of the most important and exciting aspects of the festival will be the programming coverage on NDTV about Australia-India cultural and artistic ties, which will reach a potential audience of over 350 million across NDTV platforms. Money cannot buy such exposure for Australian cultural links with India.”

Festival Director, Peter Castaldi, said: “I am delighted to have been invited to take such an important role in this vital Indo-Australian cultural and business initiative. On the back of the co-production treaty, sparking a resurgence of film links and high box office revenue in Australasia for pan Indian films, it makes sense to offer a national audience the opportunity to enjoy a professionally curated taster of the vitality of the amazingly rich and diverse Indian production sector. I look forward to working with the NIFFA to deliver exciting, informative and entertaining experiences for all Australians.”

Paul MacGregor, Director of Strategy and Marketing at Val Morgan, said: “The record-breaking success of Indian films in Australia over the past three years is a clear indication of the strong and growing appetite for a national festival like this.

“We are excited to be working the team at Australian Centre for Indian Cinema on the inaugural festival, which not only celebrates the cultural richness of Indian cinema but also opens an exciting and unique opportunity for brands to connect with this high-value, culturally diverse audience.”

The festival has also received support from all the major distributors of Indian films in Australia, NZ, and Fiji, including Forum Films and others.

All the Thrills and Chills: Smile 2 Australian Premiere Takes Over SXSW Sydney

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SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 16: Australian Premiere at SXSW Sydney of “Smile 2” at IMAX Darling Harbour on October 16, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Don Arnold/Getty Images for Paramount)

Last week, Sydney’s Darling Harbour Theatre was the place to be as the Australian premiere of Smile 2 took over SXSW Sydney—and yes, it was just as epic as you’d expect!

1. Parker Finn Hit the Purple Carpet!

First things first—Parker Finn, the brilliant writer, director, and producer behind the much-anticipated sequel, Smile 2, made a grand entrance at the premiere. Fans went wild as he walked the purple carpet, and TBH, we’re all here for it. This guy knows how to bring the thrills!

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 16: Parker Finn attends the Australian Premiere at SXSW Sydney of “Smile 2” at IMAX Darling Harbour on October 16, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Don Arnold/Getty Images for Paramount)

2. A Guest List Full of Celebs

The guest list? Star-studded. We’re talking Ash Hodgkinson, Bronte Reynolds, Dani Dacic, Deauvanne Athanasakis, Jamie Azzopardi, Sophie Love, Tayla He, Warren Pasi, Wesley Cortes, Tim Robards, and Yannick Samarasinghe, among others—all walking the carpet like the absolute icons they are. The glam was off the charts, and it was the ultimate mix of style, suspense, and serious star power.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 16: Yannick Samarasinghe attends the Australian Premiere at SXSW Sydney of “Smile 2” at IMAX Darling Harbour on October 16, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Don Arnold/Getty Images for Paramount)

3. FilmCentral Magazine On The Guest List

The event was so exclusive that FilmCentral Magazine got the golden ticket to cover the entire premiere and watch the movie. Their inside scoop is everything you need to keep that FOMO in check!

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 16: Justin Hill attends the Australian Premiere at SXSW Sydney of “Smile 2” at IMAX Darling Harbour on October 16, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Don Arnold/Getty Images for Paramount)

4. So, What’s Smile 2 All About Anyway?

Here’s the deal: the movie centres on Skye Riley (played by the one and only Naomi Scott), a global pop star gearing up for a massive world tour when—uh-oh—things start getting really freaky. She begins to experience some truly terrifying and unexplainable events (cue the chills 😱). As the horrors crank up and the pressure of her career takes its toll, Skye realises she’s got to face her past, or everything’s going to spiral way out of control. Trust us, it’s a total nail-biter! 🖤

5. The Vibes Were Unmatched

The purple carpet, the stars, the vibe. The atmosphere was electric, and it’s clear that Smile 2 is about to be the horror movie of the year. If you loved the first film, you’ll definitely want to keep your eyes peeled for this one—it’s set to deliver all the scares and suspense you’re craving.

So, if you weren’t lucky enough to snag an invite to the premiere, don’t worry—there’s still time to catch Smile 2 in cinemas. And trust us, you won’t want to miss it. Check out the photos below:

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 16: A guest attends the Australian Premiere at SXSW Sydney of “Smile 2” at IMAX Darling Harbour on October 16, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Hanna Lassen/Getty Images for Paramount)

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 16: Faye Bryson and Kyah Simon attend the Australian Premiere at SXSW Sydney of “Smile 2” at IMAX Darling Harbour on October 16, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Hanna Lassen/Getty Images for Paramount)

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 16: Andy Trieu attends the Australian Premiere at SXSW Sydney of “Smile 2” at IMAX Darling Harbour on October 16, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Don Arnold/Getty Images for Paramount)

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 16: Bronte Reynolds attends the Australian Premiere at SXSW Sydney of “Smile 2” at IMAX Darling Harbour on October 16, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Don Arnold/Getty Images for Paramount)

It’s Official: SXSW Sydney® Announces Winners Of The 2024 Screen Awards

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A Grand Mockery, Thou Shalt Not Steal, Pools, Ruby and Tom Take a Cake to a Wedding (Photo supplied by Harriet Dixon-Smith, NIXCO)

The 2024 Screen Festival, presented by IHG Hotels & Resorts, concluded in spectacular fashion as SXSW Sydney® announced the winners of its prestigious Screen Awards. Leading the pack was the Australian feature film A Grand Mockery, which took home the coveted Best Feature Film award.

Directed by Samuel Dixon and Adam C. Briggs, A Grand Mockery tells the story of Josie (portrayed by Dixon), whose mundane existence takes a strange and surreal turn as his psychic struggles deform him, sending him wandering through the rainforest hinterlands of Queensland. Shot on super-8 film, the movie harks back to underground filmmaking, offering a visually striking and tonally playful experience. The film evolves from morbid comic realism into a metaphysical journey, structured as a unique diptych that leaves audiences both fascinated and unsettled.

The SXSW Sydney 2024 Audience Award went to Pools, the debut feature by Sam Hayes. This coming-of-age drama features a stellar cast, including Odessa A’zion, Mason Gooding, and Ariel Winter. Pools follows Kennedy (A’zion), who, after failing her sophomore year of college, embarks on a pool-hopping adventure through Chicago’s wealthy Lake Forest estates. What begins as a lighthearted quest soon transforms into a profound night of self-discovery as secrets are revealed.

In the episodic category, the Stan Original Series Thou Shalt Not Steal by visionary director Dylan Rivers earned the Best Episodic award. Set in 1980s Central and South Australia, the eight-episode series follows Robyn (Sherry-Lee Watson), a young Aboriginal delinquent who escapes detention to uncover a long-hidden family secret. Along the way, she is joined by awkward teen Gidge (Will McDonald) as they navigate perilous outback landscapes, while being pursued by a cast of intense characters, including Miranda Otto’s Maxine and Noah Taylor’s Robert, a fraudulent preacher.

In the short film category, two remarkable films tied for Best Short Film: Fishtank, directed by Wendi Tang (China/USA), and Try to Remember, Please, directed by Maria Dudko (Australia). Fishtank explores the surreal life of Jules (Tiffany Chu), who, despite her year of sobriety, finds herself inexplicably vomiting goldfish. Try to Remember, Please offers a visceral look at how violence can be erased from memory, and how those who wish to deny it weaponize that erasure.

Best Music Video was awarded to Pillhouse, by Psychedelic Porn Crumpets, directed by Ollie Jones (UK). This trippy visual treat captivated judges and audiences alike.

In the student category, Ruby and Tom Take a Cake to a Wedding, directed by Australian filmmaker Jack McTaggart, earned the Best Student Film award. The short film follows Ruby, an ambitious cake-maker, and her detached partner Tom, as they navigate a chaotic journey to deliver a wedding cake, only to be thwarted by their self-absorbed family and friends.

The 2024 Screen Festival wrapped up with Two Hands: A Live Script Read, a celebration of the 25th anniversary of the beloved Australian comedy/crime film Two Hands. Hosted by Alexei Toliopoulos and Gen Fricker, the event featured an all-star line-up of comedic talent, including Susoe Youssef, Clare Cavanagh, Danielle Walker, and Zach Ruane, in a hilarious live reimagining of the classic script.

As always, SXSW Sydney 2024 proved to be an extraordinary showcase of groundbreaking talent and bold storytelling, solidifying its place as a major cultural event in the Australian and global film landscape.

This article was sourced from a press release sent by NIXCO

A New Chapter in Film: FilmCentral Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief Launches Insightful Book on Industry Challenges

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For the past few years, FilmCentral Magazine’s editor-in-chief has been on an immersive journey, delving deep into the complexities and challenges faced by the screen industry. Through extensive research, data collection, and personal experiences, she has uncovered the unique struggles professionals across the industry encounter. She’s had countless meaningful conversations with colleagues, peers, and industry veterans, who have shared their stories, highlighting the daily difficulties they face in an ever-evolving and competitive environment.

Her passion for understanding these challenges didn’t just stop at collecting data and listening to others. She took a proactive approach by developing and testing strategies tailored to her own life and career. These strategies, designed to navigate the demanding nature of the screen industry, have been rigorously implemented and refined over time. She’s proud to say that her efforts have paid off, as these approaches make a significant difference in her life and work.

Recognising that these challenges are not unique to her, she sought to extend her insights and solutions beyond her own experiences. She worked closely with a diverse range of individuals and organisations to further explore and develop strategies that could be applicable to a wider audience. Her collaborations extended to companies, organisations, and institutions that play a pivotal role in shaping the screen industry, allowing her to identify solutions that could have a broader impact.

Her journey and findings have now been compiled into a comprehensive book that gathers all the knowledge, insights, and practical tools she has acquired. The book is designed to be a resource for industry professionals, offering not only valuable insights but also tangible strategies that can create a meaningful impact. Whether it’s addressing work-life balance, navigating the pressure of deadlines, or finding a voice in a crowded space, the book aims to provide practical guidance that can resonate with her friends, colleagues, and peers across the screen industry.

Sneak Peek: The Cover Reveal!

In anticipation of the book’s release, the editor-in-chief has shared an exclusive sneak peek of the cover—a striking design that reflects the essence of her work and dedication. The book, which promises to be a must-read for those navigating the screen industry, will officially be available on Amazon from the 5th of November.

This project has been a labour of love, and she credits the collective support of her community in bringing it to life. From the people who shared their stories, to the companies and organisations that partnered with her, to the editors and proofreaders who refined the manuscript, every step of this journey has been a collaborative effort.

A special shout-out goes to all those who have contributed to this milestone, and she looks forward to sharing her work with the world, hoping that it will offer both inspiration and practical tools to help others thrive in the screen industry.

Timothée Chalamet Transforms into Bob Dylan in James Mangold’s A COMPLETE UNKNOWN

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Exciting news for film and music enthusiasts alike: the highly anticipated trailer for James Mangold’s latest film, A COMPLETE UNKNOWN, has just been released. Set against the backdrop of New York City’s vibrant 1960s music scene, the film explores the life of a young Bob Dylan and his rise to fame. Starring the talented Timothée Chalamet as the enigmatic singer-songwriter, this movie promises to captivate audiences when it hits Australian cinemas on January 23, 2025.

A Glimpse into the Story

The film takes us back to New York in the early 1960s, a time of cultural revolution and musical innovation. An enigmatic 19-year-old from Minnesota arrives in the West Village, guitar in hand, ready to leave his mark on the American music scene. With raw talent and a unique voice that challenges the status quo, he quickly rises through the ranks of the folk movement.

But the story of A COMPLETE UNKNOWN isn’t just about the meteoric rise of a music icon; it delves into the personal relationships and internal struggles that shaped him during this time. As he navigates his newfound fame and the complexities of his intimate relationships, Dylan’s restless spirit drives him to challenge the folk music establishment. In a controversial move that shocks the world and reshapes the music industry, he takes a bold step that reverberates beyond the United States, leaving an indelible mark on global culture.

Timothée Chalamet: Transforming Into Bob Dylan

Academy Award® and BAFTA nominee Timothée Chalamet steps into the shoes of the legendary Bob Dylan, not only acting in the role but also singing. Known for his performances in films like Call Me by Your Name and Dune, Chalamet’s portrayal is set to showcase his versatility as he captures the essence of a young Dylan, his enigmatic persona, and his revolutionary spirit. The trailer offers a first look at Chalamet’s transformation, highlighting his vocal performance and the raw energy he brings to the screen.

Chalamet’s commitment to the role extends beyond acting, as he also tackles the challenge of performing Dylan’s iconic songs. Fans of the star and music lovers alike can expect an authentic and moving portrayal that brings the essence of Dylan’s early years to life.

The Vision Behind the Film: James Mangold

Searchlight Pictures presents A COMPLETE UNKNOWN, directed by the acclaimed James Mangold. An Academy Award® nominee, Mangold is no stranger to biographical dramas. His previous works, such as Walk the Line (which explored the life of Johnny Cash) and Ford v Ferrari, showcase his talent for capturing the spirit of real-life figures and their impact on culture. Mangold’s vision for A COMPLETE UNKNOWN is clear: to present an electric, true-to-life story that not only chronicles the rise of Bob Dylan but also explores the turbulent cultural landscape that defined the 1960s.

Mangold’s keen eye for period detail is evident in the trailer, which vividly recreates the smoky clubs, crowded streets, and artistic energy of New York’s West Village. His direction aims to immerse audiences in the era, making them feel the excitement and tension that surrounded Dylan’s rise and his eventual transformation of the music industry.

A Star-Studded Cast

The film features an impressive ensemble cast, with some of the finest talent in Hollywood bringing this iconic story to life:

Timothée Chalamet (Call Me by Your Name, Dune) as Bob Dylan, the revolutionary young artist whose journey the film chronicles.
Edward Norton, an Academy Award® and BAFTA nominee known for his roles in Fight Club and Birdman, plays a significant role, adding depth and gravitas to the film’s narrative.
Elle Fanning (The Great, Maleficent) joins the cast, further enhancing the film’s star power. Fanning’s versatility as an actress is sure to shine in this period piece, as she portrays one of the key figures in Dylan’s life.
Monica Barbaro (Top Gun: Maverick) and Boyd Holbrook (Logan, The Bikeriders) also contribute their talents, playing pivotal roles that intertwine with Dylan’s story.
Dan Fogler (Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, The Walking Dead) and Norbert Leo Butz (Dan in Real Life) add further layers to the narrative, while Scoot McNairy (Argo, 12 Years A Slave) brings his unique style to the screen.

This ensemble not only promises powerful performances but also ensures that the film has a wide appeal, drawing in viewers from various backgrounds and interests.

A Journey Through Music and Cultural Change

A COMPLETE UNKNOWN* isn’t just a biopic; it’s a deep dive into the revolutionary energy of the 1960s and the transformative power of music. It highlights how Dylan’s arrival in New York coincided with a cultural upheaval that was reshaping society. Through the film, audiences will witness the electric atmosphere of the West Village—a hub for artists, poets, musicians, and activists—where Dylan’s sound and message resonated with a generation hungry for change.

As Dylan grows restless with the traditional folk scene, the film captures his evolution as he begins to push boundaries and challenge expectations. His decision to shift away from folk music—a move that many viewed as controversial—becomes a pivotal moment in the film, illustrating his commitment to artistic authenticity and innovation. This choice not only impacts the music industry but also becomes a defining moment for countercultural movements worldwide.

Australian Release Date: Mark Your Calendars

A COMPLETE UNKNOWN* is set to premiere in Australian cinemas on January 23, 2025. Fans of James Mangold’s previous work, Bob Dylan’s music, or simply great storytelling won’t want to miss this cinematic event. The film promises to be a must-see for anyone interested in music history, cultural transformation, and the life of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.

With a trailer that teases powerful performances, stunning visuals, and an enthralling story, A COMPLETE UNKNOWN is poised to be a major film event. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Dylan or new to his music, this movie offers a chance to experience the magic and turbulence of the 1960s through the eyes of an artist who changed it all.

Warwick Thornton to Direct Epic Australian Film First Warrior with Sam Worthington and Jason Clarke Joining Cast

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Warwick Thornton. Photo by Ben King.

Camera d’Or award-winning director Warwick Thornton, known for Samson & Delilah and The New Boy, has signed on to direct the upcoming feature film First Warrior, an epic tale about the Aboriginal resistance fighter Pemulwuy.

Pemulwuy, a Bidjigal man from the Sydney tribes, led a 12-year resistance against British settlers during the late 1700s, defending his people’s traditional lands as Australia was colonised. First Warrior will bring this powerful story to the big screen, supported by the Bidjigal, Dharawal, and Dharug Elders, ensuring the cultural significance and authenticity of the film.

The all-Indigenous core creative team is led by Thornton, with Jon Bell (The Moogai, Cleverman) as writer and Andrew Dillon, a Dharug and Gomeroi descendent, as writer-producer through his Indigenous-owned production company, That’s-A-Wrap Productions.

Joining the team are notable Australian actors Sam Worthington (Avatar, Hacksaw Ridge) and Jason Clarke (Oppenheimer, Zero Dark Thirty), with a search underway for actors to portray Pemulwuy and Bennelong, the latter of whom was famously kidnapped by Governor Arthur Phillip to start a dialogue with Indigenous Australians.

The film also has the backing of renowned screenwriters Stuart Beattie (Collateral, Pirates of the Caribbean) and Phillip Noyce (Rabbit-Proof Fence, Salt), ensuring First Warrior is set to be an epic and culturally resonant production.

Thornton said, “I am so honoured to be a part of this amazing film. It’s an important story with an awesome script and legendary actors”.

Andrew Dillon said: “It has been a lifelong goal of mine to have our Indigenous warriors celebrated on the silver screen. I can’t wait for audiences to not only experience Warwick’s vision for this story but to leave the cinema with a newfound appreciation of Australia’s shared history”.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Harriet Dixon-Smith of Nixco

Marvel Just Dropped the Thunderbolts Teaser Trailer and Poster—And We’re Already Obsessed

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Hold onto your popcorn, Marvel fans! The first teaser trailer and poster for Thunderbolts just dropped, and it’s giving us all the vibes. This isn’t your typical superhero team-up—Thunderbolts is bringing together the MCU’s least expected (and most chaotic) misfits, and we’re already counting down the days until it hits Aussie cinemas.

Let’s break it down. Florence Pugh returns as the fierce (and very over-it) assassin Yelena Belova, and she’s joined by some familiar MCU faces:

Bucky Barnes (yep, Sebastian Stan is back to brood),
Red Guardian (David Harbour doing what he does best—being hilarious),
John Walker (Wyatt Russell, still trying to redeem himself?),
Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko is here for revenge),
Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen bringing the spooky vibes), and
Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus being shady as ever).

Directed by indie favourite Jake Schreier, with Marvel Studios legend Kevin Feige producing (obviously), this film is shaping up to be one of the most unexpected and hilarious MCU projects to date. It’s like someone said, “What if we took the most random, emotionally unstable characters and made them work together? Chaos!”

And we are HERE for it.

Oh, and did we mention that Scarlett Johansson is one of the executive producers? Casual.

Thunderbolts is set to hit Aussie cinemas on May 1, 2025, and if the teaser is anything to go by, it’s going to be wild, hilarious, and absolutely epic. Buckle up, Marvel fans—it’s gonna be a bumpy ride!