Actress. Director. Mother. Advocate. Brooke Nevin Redefines Success in Hollywood’s Evolving Landscape

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Acclaimed actress Brooke Nevin is once again making waves in the film industry with her latest performance in F* Marry Kill*, the latest genre-bending release from Lionsgate and Buzzfeed Studios. This comedy-thriller hybrid is as smart as it is suspenseful, but it’s Nevin’s dynamic portrayal of Valerie—the overprotective older sister of Lucy Hale’s lead character—that anchors the film’s emotionally charged wit. Equal parts intense, hilarious, and heartbreakingly human, Valerie is a character only an actress of Nevin’s calibre could bring to life with such charisma and nuance.

Nevin’s role in F* Marry Kill* is more than a performance—it’s a masterclass in genre navigation. “Valerie’s intensity just jumped off the page,” Nevin said in a recent exclusive interview with StarCentral Magazine. “She’s messy, paranoid, and totally convinced she’s the lead in her own crime drama. That contradiction was so fun to explore.” The film deftly blends psychological tension with biting humour, and Nevin delivers both with precision, portraying a woman driven by love and fear in equal measure.

A Career Built on Complexity and Creative Range

Brooke Nevin has long been known for her eclectic body of work. From sci-fi staples like The 4400 to crime procedurals like CSI, and award-winning dark comedies like Call Me Fitz, her career has been defined by a refusal to be typecast. With F* Marry Kill*, she continues that legacy—this time pushing deeper into the realms of psychological thriller and dark comedy.

“The diversity of genres I’ve worked in has always kept me creatively fulfilled,” Nevin reflects. “I tend to gravitate towards characters who are the chaos, who are funny because of how intensely they care.” That ethos is visible in Valerie, who barrels through the film with a blend of obsession, sincerity, and deep emotional vulnerability.

The Artist Behind the Actress

But Nevin is far more than just an actress. Her creative expression transcends the screen—she’s also a skilled photographer and budding director. While filming F* Marry Kill*, she found herself drawn to the behind-the-scenes energy, often watching playback and observing lens choices. “Once you’ve peeked behind the curtain, you can’t really go back,” she said. “Even when I’m not directing, I’m learning.”

These experiences enrich her performances, offering a cinematic awareness that adds depth to every scene she inhabits. It’s this multi-dimensional artistry that sets Nevin apart in a competitive industry.

Motherhood, Motivation, and a Message of Authenticity

Adding another layer to her dynamic life, Nevin recently became a mother—an experience she says has profoundly reshaped her outlook on storytelling. “Being a new parent teaches you that no one has it all figured out,” she explains. “It’s made me even more interested in playing flawed, deeply real characters.”

Motherhood has also shifted the types of projects that resonate with her. Nevin is now drawn to stories that embody resilience, vulnerability, and emotional complexity—qualities she sees reflected in both her professional life and personal growth. “I want to tell stories my son will be proud of—ones that say something real about who we are and how we live.”

Philanthropy Rooted in Purpose

Nevin’s commitment to impact extends well beyond Hollywood. She is a passionate advocate for A Sense of Home, a nonprofit that helps former foster youth establish stable living environments. She also contributes to The Heart Gallery, using her photography to help foster children find adoptive families.

For Nevin, giving back is about aligning talent with need. “Start with something you’re already good at,” she advises. “Your creativity can be a powerful tool for good.”

Foundations in Poise and Passion

Nevin’s journey began with ballet and a one-time foray into pageantry—experiences that taught her the value of discipline and poise, even in the face of uncertainty. “Being on stage young helped build a ‘performance muscle,’” she recalls. “It taught me to focus on the process, not the pressure.”

This foundational mindset has served her well in an ever-changing industry. Whether she’s diving into a new genre or juggling motherhood with a busy creative schedule, Nevin embodies resilience, adaptability, and joy in her pursuit of craft.

A Life in Creative Seasons

Nevin offers a refreshingly honest take on balance: “The idea of a perfectly balanced life is a myth. Life moves in seasons—some are for planting, others for nurturing or harvesting. The key is to embrace each one fully.”

It’s this blend of realism and optimism that makes Brooke Nevin not only a standout talent in Hollywood but a powerful voice for authenticity, creativity, and compassion in an increasingly complex world.

As F* Marry Kill* continues to win over audiences with its smart storytelling and unique tone, one thing is clear—Brooke Nevin is at the peak of her artistic power, and she’s only just getting started.

Following Cannes Win for Iranian Director Jafar Panahi, Upcoming Aussie Film “Fireworks” Issues a Powerful Warning

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Photo Credit: Julia Firak

As global interest in Iranian stories surges, Fireworks explores trauma, exile, and the fragility of justice, made in Australia but resonating worldwide.

Just days after Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi’s It Was Just An Accident won the Palme d’Or at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, a new Australian-made feature is building momentum — inspired by the global recognition of Iranian cinema as not just political, but universal.

Fireworks, directed and co-written by Ali Vaziri, an Iranian-born filmmaker living in Australia, is a bold psychological drama rooted in real refugee experience. “Panahi’s win is a turning point,” says Vaziri. “It tells us something important: these stories are not just about Iran anymore — they’re about all of us. The same threats to truth, freedom, and justice are creeping closer to home in the West. Fireworks is my way of sounding the alarm.”

Photo Credit: Julia Firak

Set in a remote Australian town, Fireworks follows two close friends — both former political refugees — whose quiet life unravels during a weekend celebration when the past reappears in the form of a suspected war criminal. Over one day, in one house, tension builds toward an unthinkable moral choice.

It’s a film about trauma, complicity, loyalty and vengeance — but it’s also a film about how fragile peace really is, even in countries like Australia. With authentic Farsi and English dialogue and a minimalist, intimate setting, Fireworks delivers a contained but emotionally explosive story.

The cast features a talented ensemble of Iranian-Australian actors, including Keivaan Askari, Rina Mousavi, Madi Dezhbod, and Baha Jamali — Keivaan and Rina were involved in the critically acclaimed Australian-Iranian feature Shayda, Australia’s critically acclaimed entry to Sundance and the Academy Awards.

The film is produced by Yolandi Franken (Streets of Colour, Carmen & Bolude), and co-written by Nick Bleszynski, known for his work in both narrative and investigative storytelling. Filming will take place in Wiseman’s Ferry, NSW — a regional town whose quiet natural beauty mirrors the story’s haunting emotional undercurrent.

Photo Credit: Julia Firak

“This isn’t just a story about Iran. It’s a warning,” says Franken. “The erosion of truth, the silencing of dissent, the moral collapse that begins with looking away — these are themes that now ring loud in Western democracies.”

With the Cannes spotlight now firmly on Iranian voices and stories of resistance, Fireworks arrives at exactly the right moment — as a uniquely Australian contribution to a global conversation.

The film is currently seeking final-stage investment and community partnerships ahead of production later this year, with plans for international festival submission and a theatrical release followed by digital and broadcast distribution.

To request an investor pack or partnership proposal:

Yolandi Franken
Producer – Fireworks
yolandi@frankendipity.com
0404 385 988

Clown in a Cornfield Movie Review: Bloody, Bold, and Brutally Entertaining

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From the producers of Smile and director Eli Craig (Tucker and Dale vs. Evil) comes Clown in a Cornfield—a blood-soaked, tongue-in-cheek slasher that surprises more than it should. Based on Adam Cesare’s 2020 novel of the same name, this adaptation straddles the line between horror and humour with just enough confidence to keep audiences engaged, entertained, and slightly on edge.

Set in a once-thriving Midwestern town now well past its prime, the story revolves around the urban legend of Frendo the Clown. When local teens start vanishing and meeting gloriously grisly fates, it quickly becomes clear that this red-nosed menace isn’t just a bedtime story gone wrong. What follows is a tension-filled rollercoaster that’s equal parts scream-inducing and laugh-out-loud funny.

At first glance, Clown in a Cornfield plays out like your typical low-budget teen horror flick—complete with all the familiar genre tropes: the scream queen, the reluctant hero, the overprotective parent, the out-of-touch townsfolk. But around the half-hour mark, the film finds its rhythm, and from that point on, it’s a different beast altogether.

Eli Craig and co-writer Carter Blanchard deliver a script that’s sharper than expected. Yes, the dialogue occasionally veers into cheesy territory, and the pacing early on can feel a bit too by-the-numbers. But once the horror and humour begin to blend, the film clicks into gear, becoming a self-aware and surprisingly witty entry into the slasher canon.

Katie Douglas leads the charge, and while she initially leans into every cliché the genre demands of a scream queen, she manages to evolve beyond the archetype. By the film’s climax, she owns the screen with a compelling presence and earns her final-girl stripes with ease. She also shares strong on-screen chemistry with Aaron Abrams, who plays the fatherly figure. Despite some intentionally corny moments, Abrams brings a warmth and likeability that anchors the story’s emotional core.

Supporting cast members, including Carson MacCormac and Kevin Durand, round out the ensemble well. And while the acting is occasionally inconsistent, it never dips far enough to derail the overall experience.

Visually, the film revels in its chaos. The cornfield setting is used to atmospheric effect, giving scenes a claustrophobic, maze-like quality that enhances the suspense. The kill sequences are inventive, gory, and just outrageous enough to draw both gasps and giggles. Rather than leaning into cruelty, the film opts for cartoonish excess—an approach that feels far more satisfying in a genre so often steeped in bleak brutality.

What sets Clown in a Cornfield apart isn’t just its colourful carnage, but its ability to balance fun with fear. There’s a surprising amount of heart buried beneath the bloodshed, and the characters, while initially drawn with broad strokes, grow in meaningful ways. The film calls out its own tropes, often subverting expectations in a way that feels fresh without being smugly meta.

The mystery at the film’s core isn’t groundbreaking, and the “twist” doesn’t exactly knock your socks off, but it does enough to keep the momentum going. What’s more important is that the journey getting there is far more enjoyable than the trailer suggests.

Final Verdict:

Clown in a Cornfield isn’t reinventing the slasher wheel—and frankly, it doesn’t need to. What it delivers is a fast-paced, gory, and surprisingly clever horror-comedy that knows exactly what it is. With memorable kills, a strong central performance from Katie Douglas, and a script that balances tension with humour, it stands out from the crowd of forgettable horror clones.

If you’re a fan of Scream, Happy Death Day, or anything in the vein of old-school slashers with a self-aware twist, this is one cornfield worth getting lost in.

Final Thoughts:

A riotous, blood-soaked romp that’s far more fun than it has any right to be. Just don’t watch it alone in the dark—or near a cornfield.

Rating: ★★★½ (3.5/5)

Ryan Reynolds Champions Nature’s Misfits in Hilarious New Docuseries Underdogs

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Move over, lions and penguins — it’s time for the oddballs to shine.

Ryan Reynolds is swapping Deadpool’s red suit for something a bit more khaki as he lends his voice to Underdogs, a new five-part docuseries celebrating the natural world’s unsung heroes. Premiering 16 June on Disney+, the series is a joint effort from Reynolds’ Emmy® Award-winning Maximum Effort and Wildstar Films, the BAFTA and Emmy® Award-winning team behind some of the world’s most stunning wildlife documentaries.

But don’t expect your usual slow-motion lion pounce or majestic whale breach. This time, the spotlight belongs to nature’s Z-listers — the awkward, underrated, and often overlooked creatures who prove that survival doesn’t require good looks or graceful moves, just pure ingenuity and a whole lot of hustle.

Narrated with Reynolds’ Signature Wit

Reynolds, known for his razor-sharp humour, is the perfect guide through this wild world of unlikely legends. Underdogs dives headfirst into the fascinating (and frequently gross) lives of animals that typically don’t get the red carpet treatment. Think glow-in-the-dark butt-grubs in a cave in New Zealand, bizarre mating rituals, and some of the most questionable parenting strategies ever caught on camera.

“Getting to work with National Geographic on Underdogs was a dream come true,” said Reynolds. “Mostly because I can finally watch a project of ours with my children. Technically, they saw Deadpool & Wolverine but I don’t think they absorbed much while covering their eyes and ears and screaming for two hours.”

Each episode of Underdogs focuses on a different wild skillset — from strange superpowers to deceptive trickery, all the way to survival techniques that would make Bear Grylls think twice.

A Feast for the Eyes (and Ears)

The show features mind-blowing footage from the world’s top wildlife cinematographers, including scenes that have never been filmed before. One highlight? A glowing cave full of mucus-covered larvae that light up like a dodgy nightclub under UV lights. It’s gross. It’s mesmerising. It’s everything a nature doc should be.

On top of the visuals, the soundtrack absolutely slaps. Award-winning composer Harry Gregson-Williams (you know, from Shrek and The Martian) scores the series, while Green Day delivers the official theme song — fittingly titled “Underdog”. The song debuts in the official trailer, roaring like a wild anthem for every creature who’s ever felt like they were picked last for team sports.

The soundtrack, Underdogs (Original Series Soundtrack), drops on 13 June via Hollywood Records. And if you’re a fan of Green Day, you’ll be glad to know the track is also featured on the deluxe edition of their latest album, Saviors.

More Than Laughs — It’s Clever Science Too

While Underdogs has plenty of cheeky moments, it’s not all for laughs. The series highlights the resilience, intelligence and mind-blowing adaptations of animals that keep the ecosystem ticking. Forget fame — these critters are the real MVPs of the natural world.

So, whether you’re a nature nerd, a Green Day fan, or just in it for Ryan Reynolds’ running commentary on butt-glow worms, Underdogs is set to be a wild ride.

📺 Underdogs premieres **16 June on Disney+_.

Bring your curiosity. Maybe not your lunch.

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

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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

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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+

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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

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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

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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

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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.