FilmCentral Magazine

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

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

Official Synopsis

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

Release Date: In Cinemas January 16

Duration: 108 minutes

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

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

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

A Story That’s Out of This World

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

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

An Out-of-This-World Cast

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

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

The Creative Minds Behind Elio

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

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

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

A Visual Feast Awaits

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

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

Themes That Resonate Across Galaxies

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

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

Countdown to Launch

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

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

Did You Know?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Introducing Kate Godfrey: From Nickelodeon to Hollywood – The Rise of a Multi-Talented Actress

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Photo Credit: Jonny Marlow

Award-winning actress Kate Godfrey is solidifying her place as one of Hollywood’s brightest rising stars. With her comedic beginnings on Nickelodeon and her recent foray into dramatic roles, Kate has proven her versatility and talent, captivating audiences and industry insiders alike.

Born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona, Kate’s journey into the spotlight began at the age of nine. Performing in local productions and the Broadway community in New York City, she quickly showcased her natural flair for acting. Her big break came when she joined the revival of All That on Nickelodeon as a regular cast member, starring in 36 episodes. With sharp comedic timing and infectious energy, Kate received rave reviews for her performances and earned the admiration of none other than Saturday Night Live legend Kenan Thompson, who hailed her as a next-generation comedic talent.

Kate’s comedic prowess continued to shine when she took on the lead role of Ruby in Nickelodeon’s Warped!, a series that allowed her to delve deeper into the world of humour and wit. She also made her late-night debut in a sketch comedy segment on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, solidifying her presence as a force in the entertainment world.

But Kate’s career has not been limited to comedy. Her role in the short film Leading Man marked a significant turning point, earning her the prestigious 2024 Tribeca Most Moving Narrative Award. The film was also an official selection at the Out On Film Festival, qualifying for both the Oscars and BAFTA—an extraordinary feat for a young actress. Kate’s performance in Leading Man demonstrated her emotional depth and versatility, proving she is equally adept at dramatic roles.

Looking ahead, Kate’s trajectory continues to soar. In 2025, she will appear as a recurring guest star in Hulu’s highly anticipated series Paradise. She plays Hadley, the daughter of Julianne Nicholson, in a cast that includes James Marsden and Sterling K. Brown. The series is already generating buzz as one of Hulu’s most anticipated releases. Additionally, Kate has secured a role in the upcoming feature film Red Ants, further expanding her repertoire.

Beyond her acting career, Kate is also a dedicated student at UCLA, where she balances her education with her professional commitments. Her academic pursuits are driven by her desire to understand the entertainment industry from multiple perspectives, including the business and filmmaking aspects.

Kate’s philanthropic efforts are equally inspiring. She volunteers with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause close to her heart. “A kid should never be sick; St. Jude’s makes those families feel a little safer,” she shares, reflecting her compassionate outlook on life.

FilmCentral Magazine recently had the privilege of interviewing Kate, delving deeper into her journey, influences, and aspirations.

On her most transformative experiences as an actress

Kate credits her short film Leading Man as a pivotal moment in her career. “Seeing our short at Tribeca inspired me not only as an actor but as a filmmaker,” she says. However, she acknowledges that her personal experiences outside the entertainment industry have also played a significant role in shaping her craft. “Being able to live life and go to both high school and college has taught me things about acting that I couldn’t learn on set.”

Photo Credit: Jonny Marlow

On Kenan Thompson’s mentorship

Kate speaks highly of Kenan Thompson’s influence, stating, “Kenan’s mentorship has helped me be confident and work hard. It is really challenging to be a working actor, so it is helpful to have words of encouragement from people whose work you admire. He works like crazy and is still a good influence. I hope to be that friendly and humble if I am ever as successful as him.”

Balancing comedy and drama

For Kate, transitioning between comedy and drama is like “playing sports.” She explains, “They can be completely different, but many of the same skills carry over. I will always have a special love for comedy because that is where I learned about the entertainment industry.”

Photo Credit: Jonny Marlow

On taking on mature roles

Kate is excited to tackle more layered and dimensional characters as she grows. “You are very limited when you are young as to what you can say or do, but as an adult, I find that my characters are much more dimensional. What excites me most is telling stories that resonate with more people.”

On her role in Hulu’s Paradise

Reflecting on her role in Paradise, Kate reveals, “I play Hadley. I have a small role, but I learned a lot while filming it. Julianne Nicholson showed me that acting is something you can master. She not only knew how to do her job perfectly but also made everyone else’s jobs easier.”

Photo Credit: Jonny Marlow

Balancing UCLA studies with acting

Kate’s commitment to education is unwavering. “It has always been one of my life goals to get a degree,” she shares. While juggling acting and academics is challenging, Kate finds value in understanding the business side of the industry. “Learning about the entertainment industry as a film student has made me an easier actor to work with because I know why productions make the business choices they do.”

Looking to the future

Kate’s aspirations include roles that challenge her and allow her to grow. “In the next few years, I would like to play roles that require me to learn new skills and tell unique stories,” she says.

With her undeniable talent, humility, and drive, Kate Godfrey is undoubtedly on the cusp of becoming one of Hollywood’s next big stars. Whether it’s her comedic charm or her dramatic prowess, one thing is clear—Kate’s star is only just beginning to rise.

Photo Credit: Jonny Marlow

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.

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: