Category: Latest News

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/

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.

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

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

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

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

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

And the winners are:

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

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

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

Highly Commended International Animation

‘Maybe Elephants’ (Norway, Canada)

Director/Writer: Torill Kove

Producer: Lise Fernley, Maral Mohammadian, Tonje Skar Reiersen

EU In Australia Award for Best EU Short Film

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

Flickerfest Special Jury Award

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

Special Mention of the Jury for International Short Film

‘A Summer’s End Poem’ (China)

Director/Writer/Producer: Lam Can-zhao

Writer: Yupeng He, Shutong Xu

DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

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

‘Recomposing Earth’ (UK)

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

Flickerfest Special Jury Award for Documentary Short

‘Nelson The Piglet’ (Netherlands)

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

RAINBOW LGBTQI COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

Azure Productions Award for Best Rainbow Short

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

EU In Australia Award for Best EU Rainbow Short Film

‘Chico’ (France)

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

SPECIAL MENTION OF THE JURY FOR RAINBOW SHORT FILM

‘Dragfox’

Director: Lisa Ott |  Producer: Owen Thomas

AUSTRALIAN COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

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

‘Marcia And The Shark’

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

Spectrum Films Award for Best Direction in an Australian Short Film

Director: Riley Blakeway for ‘A Thousand Odd Days’

Yoram Gross Award for Best Australian Animated Short Film

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

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

AFTRS Award for Best Screenplay in an Australian Short Film

Writer: Claudia Osborne for ‘Rash’

John Barry Award for Best Cinematography in an Australian Short Film

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

Avid Award for Best Editing in an Australian Short Film

Editor: Samuel Inglis for ‘Not Yet’

Avid Award for Best Original Music in an Australian Short Film

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

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

Director: Sophie Serisier for ‘Oi’

Highly Commended Outstanding Emerging Female Director 

Director: Claudia Osborne for ‘Rash’

Specsavers Award for Best Australian Comedy Short Film

‘Over’

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

FLiCKERUP YOUTH COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

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

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

Director: Year 7 Doveton College Students | Producer Gene Geoffrey

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

Wr/iDir: Lucia Carman Murray

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

Writer/Dir/Prod: Abigail Rain Knight

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

Calling All Future Filmmakers & Animators

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What’s “NIGHTBITCH” About?

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

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

Amy Adams Is Crushing It (Again!)

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

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

Why You’ll Love It

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

Mark Your Diaries: January 24, 2025

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

P.S. Disney+ Has You Covered

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

Don’t Miss Out

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

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

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

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

Official Synopsis  

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

Release Date: In Cinemas January 16

Duration: 108 minutes

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

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

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

A Story That’s Out of This World

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

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

An Out-of-This-World Cast

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

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

The Creative Minds Behind Elio

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

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

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

A Visual Feast Awaits

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

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

Themes That Resonate Across Galaxies

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

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

Countdown to Launch

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

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

Did You Know?

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

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

Paddington in Peru: Your Chance to Join the Adventure of a Lifetime!

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WIN 4 movie passes to PADDINGTON IN PERU, thanks to FilmCentral Magazine in collaboration with @studiocanalau! Get ready for an epic journey with everyone’s favourite bear!

Official Synopsis  

PADDINGTON IN PERU brings Paddington’s story back to Peru as he returns to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, who resides at the Home for Retired Bears. With the Brown Family in tow, a thrilling adventure ensues when a mystery plunges them into an unexpected journey through the Amazon rainforest and up to the mountain peaks of Peru.

Release Date: In Cinemas January 1

Duration: 106 minutes

Classification: PG | Censorship Advice: Mild themes

Join Paddington, the Browns, and Aunt Lucy on an unexpected journey through the Amazon and beyond. Don’t miss this heartwarming adventure in cinemas on January 1.

To enter, email lex@starcentralmag.com — first come, first serve!

#PaddingtonInPeru

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.