current movie reviews australia

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The Sydney Morning Herald

Redeem free movie passes to see “Thelma”*

Subscribers have the chance to redeem one of 40 free double passes* to see “Thelma”.

• August 16, 2024

What would dementia look like as a creature? The master of monsters wants to show you

He has created grisly monsters for The Hobbit and The Portable Door, but now Australian Steve Boyle is taking up the scariest post of all: directing.

• by Nell Geraets

Is one of cinema’s most terrifying creatures just misunderstood?

Director Fede Alvarez had to look to the past when designing Alien: Romulus, which sits between the original Alien and its sequel, Aliens.

• August 15, 2024
• by Michael Idato

The surfer who can’t see the waves he is surfing

The Blind Sea follows para-surfing champion Matt Formston on his quest to conquer the “Everest of waves” in Portugal.

• by Sandra Hall

Cinema’s most gruesome creature has a frightening new bag of tricks

Alien: Romulus takes place in the period between Ridley Scott’s 1979 original and James Cameron’s 1986 sequel.

David Bowie

‘forgotten’ bowie movie resurfaces in goma film season.

Bowie was born for the big screen, but among his famous roles is an obscure gem that Brisbane audiences now have the chance to see.

• August 14, 2024
• by Nick Dent

It Ends With Us had its red carpet premiere. Fans immediately noticed something was wrong

Awkward interviews, Instagram snubs and a scene written by Ryan Reynolds? The new film starring Blake Lively has become mired in behind-the-scenes cast drama.

• August 13, 2024

How to look like Russell Crowe in his prime for just $75,000

Leather breastplates, aluminium swords and rubber shields are just the beginning.

• August 12, 2024
• by Tim Barlass

Disney banks on sequels as Star Wars, Marvel, Frozen franchises expand

Baby Yoda is heading to the big screen and Disney has confirmed a third – and a fourth – Frozen film, among other reveals at the studio’s D23 convention.

• August 10, 2024

No room at the inn: The Fitzroy hotel that always refused sports fans

The Brooklyn Arts Hotel was one of a kind, and a new documentary captures the last days of this unique and now-gone institution.

• by Karl Quinn

Cate Blanchett’s sci-fi adventure is bizarre, yet watchable, claptrap

Why anyone thought the star’s role in this video game adaptation would appeal to the demographic is a mystery: there’s not much here for Tar or Carol fans.

• August 9, 2024
• by Jake Wilson

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Category: Movie Reviews

‘Alien: Romulus’ Is an Amusement-Park Ride Based on a Movie

This latest addition to the enduring horror/sci-fi franchise uses the 1979 classic as a back-to-basics touchstone — and ends up coming off more like an overly reverent tribute.

‘Good One’ Is Pure Brooklyn Sad-Dad Catnip — and a Great Movie

Writer-director India Donaldson's debut drops a young woman in the middle of a middle-aged male malaise-fest, and immediately stakes a claim as one of the best movies of the year

‘Borderlands’ Is an Insult to Gamers, Movie Lovers and Carbon-Based Life Forms

We'd say it's the worst video game movie ever — but that's way too limiting

‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ Is the Biggest Superhero Movie Inside-Joke Ever

The official MCU/X-Men crossover has arrived — along with enough meta-cameos, dead-franchise resurrections, punchlines involving 'The Music Man' and pegging, corporate synergy, and fan service to crack a genre in half

‘Twisters’: Never Mind the Bad Weather, Here’s Some Movie Stars!

Sequel to 1996 blockbuster won't blow you away, but it does give you a chance to watch Glen Powell and Daisy Edgar-Jones channel that old disaster/action-movie feeling

‘Longlegs’ Isn’t a Serial-Killer Thriller. It’s a Nightmare Vibe

"Creepy" does not begin to describe director Osgood Perkins' take on an FBI agent tracking a mass murderer — or Nicolas Cage's WTF performance

‘Fly Me to the Moon’ Is One Giant Leap Backwards for Rom-Coms

It has two real-deal movie stars, a sharp premise about marketing the space race and a ring-a-ding retro 1960s vibe. So why does nothing about this movie work?

‘A Quiet Place: Day One’ Gives You Thrills, Chills and Pizza (Just Not in That Order)

Franchise prequel rewinds to the beginning and watches as an extraordinary Lupita Nyong'o and her cat navigate a postapocalyptic Manhattan for survival... and a really good uptown slice

‘Inside Out 2’ Is All the Feels — Now With 50-Percent More Anxiety Attacks!

Pixar's sequel to one of its best movies ups the emotional ante by tackling teenhood, including the negative parts. Especially the negative parts

‘Hit Man’ Confirms Glen Powell Is the 21st Century’s Cary Grant

The star and director/longtime buddy Richard Linklater turn a true story of a mild-mannered guy pretending to be a professional killer into a screwball crime-comedy hit

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Cinema Australia

Dedicated to the support and promotion of australian made films through independent news, reviews, features and interviews., every new australian film i watched in 2023 and where you can see them.

Arielle Cartwright in White Blood .

Every year brings forth a trove of stories, visions, and narratives that encapsulate the diverse and dynamic spirit of Australia. As the founder and editor of Cinema Australia , I  immersed myself in over 80 new Australian films released this past year via film festivals and general releases.

In this comprehensive feature, I invite you to join me on an exploration of the ever-evolving landscape of Australian storytelling, as witnessed through the lens of these compelling cinematic offerings. From the bustling urban landscapes to the serene beauty of the outback, from intimate character studies to grand-scale epics, the spectrum of Australian cinema continues to captivate and surprise.

Join me as we celebrate the vitality of Australian cinema and the remarkable talent that shapes its narrative. This feature is a tribute to the filmmakers, actors, and storytellers who continue to elevate and redefine Australia’s cinematic landscape.

Did you see a films this year that’s not on this list? Let us know about them via the comments below.

Audition Tape 13

Written and directed by Mathew J. Wilkinson Produced by Mathew J. Wilkinson and Jodi Ritchie Starring Ella Morris, Ian Callahan, Jemmah Rattley, Willian Rodrigues, Laura-Rose Harrington, Hailan Yang, Kayla Ursini and Martin Robinson

Where you can see it Google Play, YouTube Movies and disc.

Directed by, Matthew J Wilkinson, this psychological-thriller explores sexual improprieties within the film industry. Auditioning is a daunting process. Even more so when you’re looking for that big break. Michael is a no-budget film maker looking to cast for his latest romantic comedy. Yet his intentions might not be anything to laugh about until a lone Actress shows up at his door to question his true motives. Confronting and triggering with a squeamish sense of adult film, Audition Tape 13 is everything horrifying about Independent filmmaking

Australia’s Open

Directed by Ili Baré Produced by Charlotte Wheaton, Nick Batzias, Virginia Whitwell

Where you can see it ABC iView January 8. Host your own cinema screening via FanForce.

Every January, the Australian Open commands global attention, but when off-court drama steals the show, Australia itself becomes part of the spectacle. Australia’s Open charts the tournament’s rise as it inadvertently reveals Australia’s divisions to the world. Through telling archive, compelling play and heavy-hitting interviews, Australia’s Open captures the poetry and power of the tournament… because at the Australian Open, there is always more than a game at stake.

The Big Dog

Written and directed by Dane McCusker Produced by Jessica Murphy and Claudia Shepherd Starring Julian Garner, Felicity Price, Asha Boswarva, Michael Monk, Dilroop Khangura, James Fraser, Lloyd Allison-Young, Rupert Reid and Mark Gadaleta

Where you can see it Apple TV

Our coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #105 | Dane McCusker

An intelligent yet cheeky comedy from recent AFTRS masters graduate and up and coming talent to watch Dane McCusker, The Big Dog centres on Richard Morgan, a stockbroker, suburban family man – and secret findom addict.

On the morning of his son’s graduation party, Richard discovers his dominatrix has cleaned out all of his bank accounts including the money for the graduation present – a new car. Now over the course of one Saturday, he must try and recover the money without his wife discovering his secret life. 

Julian Garner ( Top End Wedding ) stars in a superb performance as stockbroker Richard Morgan, and Felicity Price (Wish You Were Here) plays his unsuspecting wife Kelly. Michael Monk stars as son Sam and Asha Boswarva as the findom worker and struggling psychology student with good intentions.

Following the ultimate demise of Richard’s all too familiar character, The Big Dog is a well crafted, incredibly funny slapstick comedy reflective of The White Lotus and Death at a Funeral .

Directed by Jim Weir and Jack Clark Written by Jack Clark Story by Jim Weir and Jack Clark Produced by Stephanie Troost and Ulysses Oliver

Where you can see it TBA via Umbrella Entertainment

Our coverage Read out interview with Jim Weir and Jack Clark

A bride to be is invited to her own fiancé’s bachelor party, but when uncomfortable details about their relationship emerge, the night takes a feral turn.Featuring an ensemble cast of young talent including Shabana Azeez and Mackenzie Fearnley.

The Boat With No Name

Directed by Phil O’Brien and Jeffery Baxter Written by Phil O’Brien Starring Bella Baxter Timmy Burarrwanga and Valerie Dhamarrandji

Where you can see it General release TBA

A small community tries to start their own business in the hope of making enough money to employ their own School Teacher.

Bring Him to Me

Directed by Luke Sparke Written by Tom Evans Starring Barry Pepper, Jamie Costa, Sam Neill, Rachel Griffiths, Liam McIntyre and Zac Garred

Where you can see it Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Microsoft, YouTube Movies, Google Play, Telstra TV Box Office, Fetch and disc

Under orders from a ruthless crime boss, a getaway driver must battle his conscience and drive an unsuspecting crew member to an ambush execution. There is a long drive ahead.

Bromley: Light After Dark

Directed by Sean McDonald Featuring David Bromley Yuge Bromley and Kate Ceberano

Where you can see it General home release TBA

Bromley: Light After Dark  is a rousing exploration of life, love and creativity. David Bromley found that art appeased the voices in his head and helped him find beauty in the world, so he made the life-changing decision to commit his whole being to something meaningful. With intimate access to the world of this prominent Australian artist, we peel away the layers of anxiety, phobias and suicide survival, whilst embracing the humour and energy that is ever-present.

David’s journey is not complete without his wife Yuge and it’s through this powerful partnership that we witness firsthand the fragility of David’s world and state of mind. As the Bromley’s live their authentic lives, interviews with friends, critics and musicians add perspectives and insight on the creative process, mental health, and commercialisation of art. Ultimately this is a love story for the ages and a rousing exploration of life and creativity. As David himself says, “art saved my life”. But that’s just the beginning of this story…

Burn Gently 

Directed by Sensible Antix

Where you can see it SBS On Demand

Our coverage Interview: Antony Attridge AKA Sensible Antixx

The history of hip-hop in Australia, exploring the impact of breakout artists, the public response to the genre, its entry into mainstream consciousness in the 1990s and how the artform became a medium for social commentary.

Directed by Justine A. Rosenthal and Michael Ware

Where you can watch it Stan

The disappearance of a father and son in a tropical Australian bayou of crocodiles and mangrove swamps unravels a dynastic alliance between formidable fishing clans.

Directed by Benjamin Millepied Written by Alexander Dinelaris Loïc Barrère and Benjamin Millepied Produced by Mimi Valdes Starring Melissa Barrera and Paul Mescal

Where you can see it Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Microsoft, Google Play, Telstra TV Box Office, Fetch and disc

Starring Melissa Barrera & Paul Mescal, Benjamin Millepied’s Carmen is a gritty modern day tale, with a majestic score by Nicholas Britell, and dream-like dance sequences that evoke magic realism. The story follows a young and fiercely independent woman who is forced to flee her home in the Mexican desert following the brutal murder of her mother, another strong and mysterious woman.

Carmen survives a terrifying and dangerous illegal border crossing into the US, only to be confronted by a lawless volunteer border guard who cold-bloodedly murders two other immigrants in her group. When the border guard and his patrol partner, Aidan—a Marine with PTSD—become embroiled in a deadly standoff, Carmen and Aidan are forced to escape together. They make their way north toward Los Angeles in search of Carmen’s mother’s best friend, the mercurial Masilda and owner of La Sombra nightclub – a sanctuary of music and dance. Carmen and Aidan find both solace and their unwavering love for each other in the safety of Masilda’s magical refuge, but time is running out as the police hunt closes in.

The Carnival

Directed by Isabel Darling

Go on an epic road trip with the Bells, a sixth-generation carnival family, as they haul their convoy of trucks, rides and workers from Batemans Bay to Darwin and back. The Carnival captures the intimate moments of the sixth-generation carnival family, the Bells, as they haul their convoy of trucks, rides and workers from Batemans Bay to Darwin and back.

Filmed over seven years, their journey includes pandemic shutdowns, bushfires, persistent rain and rising fuel costs – with a dwindling economy thrown in. The close-knit family battles not only to keep Australia’s oldest show on the road, but ultimately to keep their carnival legacy alive.

Written and directed by Heath Davis Produced by Daniel Fenech Starring Steve Le Marquand, Darren Gilshenan, Hannah Joy and Nicole Pastor

Where you can see it Binge

Our coverage Read our chat with Hannah Joy | Cinema Australia Podcast #107 | Heath Davis

A once famous actor is now performing as Santa Claus in a mall because of his alcohol addiction. After accidentally meeting his estranged daughter he seeks help for his recovery in order to win his daughter’s forgiveness.

Danielle Laidly: Two Tribes

Written and directed by Julie Kalceff and Sam Matthews Produced by Alison Kenter Featuring Danielle Laidley and Donna Leckie

Where you can see it Stan

Explores former AFL star Danielle Laidley’s extraordinary life, utilising personal archival material including photos, journals and videos showcasing the highs – and lows – of becoming the remarkable and resilient woman she is today.

Written and directed by Madeleine Blackwell Produced by Madeleine Blackwell, Sharon Cleary and Peter Thurmer Starring Ali Al Jenabi and Imelda Bourke

Where you can see it In cinemas from February 2024

Ali drives a cab with another man’s license and relies on GPS to find his way around a city he doesn’t know. His passenger, Esther, is an old woman who does not remember where she is going.

The Dark Emu Story

Directed by Allan Clarke Written by Allan Clarke and Jacob Hickey Featuring Bruce Pascoe

Where you can watch it ABC iView

A thought-provoking documentary that charts the impact of Bruce Pascoe’s Dark Emu – the book that challenged Australia to rethink its history and ignited a debate that continues to rage. Winner of Walkley Award for Excellence in Australian Journalism.

Bruce Pascoe in The Dark Emu Story .

Disconnect Me

Written and directed by Alex Lykos Produced by Janette Lakiss, Alex Lykos and Peter Maple Featuring Alex Lykos, Gil Ben-Moshe, Janette Lakiss and James Morcan

Disconnect Me focuses on Alex, who experiments with disconnecting from his smartphone and social media for 30 days. How will this impact his life both personally and professionally? In the grand scheme of things, how does this affect you?

Ego: The Michael Gudinski Story

Directed by Paul Goldman Written by Sara Edwards, Paul Goldman and Bethany Jones Featuring Jimmy Barnes, Garbage and Dave Grohl

Our coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #101 | Paul Goldman

The wild ride of maverick entrepreneur Michael Gudinski who defied convention and revolutionised the Australian music industry.

Elect Lincoln

Written, directed and produced by Lincoln Cook

Fed up with the state of Australian politics, Australian independent senate candidate Lincoln Cook, sets out on a fact finding mission to Aotearoa NZ. In search of real leadership, a new style of politics and new policy ideas. Lincoln interviews leaders from across the political spectrum, as he follows Jacinda Ardern’s re-election campaign during the 2020 outbreak of Covid-19.

Frank and Frank

Written and directed by Adam Morris Produced by Ian Hale, Adam Morris and Suzanne Worner Starring Myles Pollard, Trevor Jamieson and Rebecca Leafe

Where you can see it Currently screening at Kookaburra Outdoor Cinema in Mundaring, Perth. General home release TBA.

Our coverage Interview: Myles Pollard

The new philosophical dramedy, also known as Frank and Frank (or the Valley and the Walrus: Ruminations on the Mystery from Soup to Nuts), follows Frank 1 (Myles Pollard), a faith and finance guru who heads to the country to present at a regional conference only to find out his wife (Rebecca Leafe) is thinking of leaving him.

As his life unravels, he finds comfort in his new neighbour Frank 2 (Trevor Jamieson), an itinerant artist, bon vivant and serial womaniser who just might save his life or ruin it completely once and for all.

Frank and Frank is writer and director Adam Morris’ sophomore feature film following his highly-regarded debut, Edward and Isabella . The film is produced by Ian Hale, Adam Morris and Suzanne Worner and features music by Drapht, Nick Cave, Steve Pigram, The Waifs, Kris Nelson and Mardae Selepak.

Flyways: The untold journey of migratory shorebirds

Directed by Randall Wood Written by Alex Barry, Suzanne Smith and Randall Wood Produced by Rebecca Mcelroy and Randall Wood Narrated by Mia Wasikowska

Where you can watch it General home release TBA

With the world’s migratory shorebirds and their epic Flyways under threat, scientists, in search of a smoking gun, race to map their journeys. Shorebirds fly thousands of miles each year along ancient and largely unknown migratory routes called Flyways.

Species travel from feeding grounds in the southern hemisphere to breeding grounds in the Arctic regions and back again, flying up to nine days non-stop without food or water. They are the world’s greatest endurance athletes and their navigational skills on these marathon migrations are as extraordinary as they are mysterious.

Ford v Holden

Directed by Serge Ou and Martin Baker Written by Serge Ou, Martin Baker and Stephen Waller Produced by Ruby Schmidt Narrated by Shane Jacobson

Narrated by Shane Jacobson, Ford v Holden is a feature-length documentary that explores the decades-long competition between two of Australia’s most iconic car brands: Ford and Holden. From the early days of the automobile industry to the present, FORD V HOLDEN delves into the history, technology and culture of these rival companies and their impact on the Australian psyche and automotive landscape.

Directed by Carly-Anne Kenneally and Jess Kenneally Written by Jess Kenneally Produced by Carly-Anne Kenneally, Jess Kenneally and Leanne Tonkes

Where you can see it General release TBA. Host your own screening via FanForce.

Our coverage Interview: Jess Kenneally and Carly Anne Kenneally

A young mother travels to her son’s imaginary world to cope with the reality of her abusive relationship.

Directed by Daniel Widdowson Written by Amanda Giles and Craig Giles Produced by Craig Giles and Amanda Giles Starring Kaitlyn Boyé, Ana Thu Nguyen and Shane Emmett

Where you can see it Host your own cinema screening via FanForce

Following a disastrous day at the hospital, intern Kaylee parties with her glamourous friends to drown her sorrows. She thinks she has met Mr Right, (Jordan) and goes back to his luxurious hotel. Little does she realise that her friends were drugged and sold by Jordan’s associate while she was enjoying a night of bliss. The next morning, Kaylee is horrified when she discovers Jordan’s computer displaying the night’s catch of young girls. She’s then drugged and shipped off to Jordan’s soundproof basement to keep her quiet. After forging a weapon from a cymbal, she stabs Jordan and breaks free.

Vince and Mel head up the criminals who are taking young women and children. They have been grooming Bree and Debbi for a few months and are ready to seize the opportunity when it presents. These predators find it easy to coerce Debbi as she is blinded by the glitz and glamour of free drugs and expensive clothes. Streetwise Bree is repulsed by the idea and tries to run. She accepts her fate when Vince threatens her family which includes capturing her little brother. Bree agrees to one ‘date’.

Bree’s parents report the abduction to the police… Lynn pleads with Ayesha for help, who is over-run by the demands of a busy Police Station; they almost come to blows. Sargent Marley empowers Ayesha to chase down the criminals and she acts quickly to reconcile differences with Lynn. Police do find Bree before she is harmed but her friend Debs is not so fortunate.

Written, directed and produced by Rachel Antony and Laurence Billiet Featuring Bob Brown

Where you can see it Apple TV, YouTube, DocPlay, Telstra TV Box Office, Vimeo, Prime Video and disc

Our coverage Interview: Laurence Billiet and Rachael Antony

The Giants explores the intertwined fates of trees and humans in this cinematic portrait of environmental folk hero and gay icon Bob Brown who took green politics to the centre of power. From a seedling to forest elder The Giants interweaves Bob’s story with the life cycle of the ancient trees he is fighting for.

The hidden life of the forest is brought to life by cameras rigged high in the tree canopy, immersive point cloud animation generated from 3D tree scans, and thought-provoking insights by the likes of David Suzuki and Merlin Sheldrake.

Drawing on Bob’s lifetime of activism, from the Franklin to the Tarkine, The Giants ignites an urgent conversation about the right of the Forest to exist and challenges the audience to write the next chapter.

Godless: The Eastfield Exorcism

Directed by Nick Kozakis Written by Alexander Angliss-Wilson Produced by Tony Coombs, Lauren Simpson and Timothy Whiting Starring Georgia Eyers, Dan Ewing and Tim Pocock

Where you can watch it Fetch, AppleTV, Google Play, Prime Video and disc

Our coverage Interview: Nick Kozakis | Interview: Dan Ewing | Cinema Australia Podcast #104: Georgia Eyers

Lara is a woman tormented, torn between science and faith. Pushed by her husband to seek treatment from a congregation of zealots, a ruthless exorcist will try to save her soul by putting an innocent woman through hell.

The Greatest Surf Movie in the Universe

Directed by Vaughan Blakey and Nick Pollet Written by Nick Pollet Produced by Blake Northfield Starring Luke Hemsworth, Mick Fanning, Craig Anderson, Mason Ho, Griffin Colapinto, Jack Freestone, Matt Wilkinson & feat. Kelly Slater

Where you can see it In select cinemas from January 5

10 years from now a virus more deadly and more contagious than anything we’ve ever seen decimates all the world’s living creatures. Facing a total extinction event, a brilliant geneticist named Dr Jonathan Figg discovers a miracle vaccine that is fast tracked into production, saving the final remnants of humanity. Unfortunately, there’s one terrible side effect-the vaccine completely erases all memory of surfing from the human mind.

It’s a strange and abstract time as the World’s Best Surfers stumble blindly into new lives and careers oblivious to the incredible talents they once possessed.

Sensing the total extinction of wave riding, the surf God, Huey, makes a last-ditch effort to save surfing. He scours the globe until, high on a mountain top in Tibet, he finds the one man capable of bringing surfing back from the dead.

With his memory reinstated by Huey, it’s now up to the three Time World Champion Surfer Mick Fanning to recruit a team of the world’s best surfers (including Mason Ho, Griffin Colapinto, Jack Freestone, Craig Anderson and Matt Wilkinson) and restore the glory of surfing back into public consciousness. There’s only one way to do it and that’s to make… The Greatest Surf Movie In The Universe.

Here Be Dragons

Written and directed by Alastair Newton Brown Produced by Alastair Newton Brown, Nathan Sapsford and Marc Windon Starring Nathan Sapsford, Slobodan Bestic and Marija Bergam

A war crimes investigator goes to Belgrade to hunt a man whom everybody thought was dead.

House of Inequity

Written and directed by Josh Hale Produced by Josh Hale, Nicole Leo and Stephen Simmons Starring Todd Leigh, Parker Little and Brittany Bell

Where you can see it Tubi

A day trip takes a turn for the worse when a group of friends investigate an abandoned house. The nightmare’s quickly become a reality when they are forced to face their own personal fears, and survive a night in The House of Inequity.

I Want to Thank the Academy

Directed by Jonathon James Williams Written by Daniel Wallner and Jonathon James Williams Starring Jeff Alan-Lee, Sara Albrecht and Brian Berglund

Richard Wilken’s is an Australian cattle farmer who moves to Hollywood to chase his unlikely dream of becoming an actor. Along this impossible journey we enter into the heart of Hollywood like never before as Richard helplessly pursues his dreams and moonlights with an unusual job.

Isla’s Way

Written and directed by Marion Pilowsky Produced by Georgia Humphreys and Marion Pilowsky Featuring Susan Phillips-Rees and Isla Wakefield Roberts

Our coverage Creative processes, authenticity and connections to real people: Marion Pilowsky writes about her new film, Isla’s Way

From bush mechanic living in extreme isolation to carriage driving legend, 87 year old Isla could be the first and last Australian cowboy.

It Only Takes a Night

Written and directed by Callan Durlik Produced by Kara Pisconeri, Josh Horneman and Callan Durlik Starring Eliza Taylor, George Pullar, Arielle Carver-O’Neill and Tom O’Sullivan

Where to watch it Apple TV, Google Play, Telstra TV Box Office, Prime Video, YouTube and Fetch

Our coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #99 Callan Durlik

Four best friends on a wild night end up on a path none of them expected and find it only takes one night to find true love.

John Farnham: Finding the Voice

Directed by Poppy Stockell Produced by Olivia Hoopmann Written by Poppy Stockell and Paul Clarke Featuring John Farnham, Olivia Newton-John, Jimmy Barnes and Celine Dion

Where you can watch it Apple TV, Google Play, Prime Video, 7Plus and disc

Our Coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #101 | Robert & James Farnham

John Farnham: Finding The Voice  tells the untold story of an Australian music icon. In this first authorised biopic, we follow Farnham’s life from the quiet suburbs of Melbourne to ‘60s pop fame, through incredible highs and lows, and ultimately to record-breaking success as ‘Australia’s Voice’.

John Farnham was 38 years old when Whispering Jack was released. Nobody ever questioned that Farnham could sing — but the challenge to find his artistic voice and become Australia’s most trusted and beloved performer took half a lifetime. Whispering Jack is still the highest selling Australian album of all time, and this powerful documentary tracks the personal and public journey that has made Farnham Australia’s greatest and most beloved musical artist.

Jones Family Christmas

Directed by Stef Smith Written by Tegan Higginbotham Produced by Richard Kelly and John Molloy Starring Heather Mitchell, Ella Scott Lynch, Max McKenna, Neil Melville, Nicholas Denton, Dushan Philips

Grandmother Heather Jones has finally managed to get her family home for Christmas. But before the festivities begin, they receive a fire evacuation order. Now, the family must band together as they rediscover what matters most – each other.Grandmother Heather Jones has finally managed to get her family home for Christmas. But before the festivities begin, they receive a fire evacuation order. Now, the family must band together as they rediscover what matters most – each other.

Written and directed by Blair Moore Produced by Blake Northfield Starring Tammin Sursok, Nathan Phillips, Jake Ryan, Holly Brisley, Jeremy Lindsay Taylor and Clayton Watson

Where you can see it Google, iTunes, Fetch, Foxtel, Telstra, Sky, Amazon TVOD from January 3 and disc from January 7

Benny works for old school crime boss Abe, Abe has multiple personalities and is in a gang war with the notorious Frankie. Kane is the deadliest of Abe’s personalities, the next 24 hours will be a killer. Today is a good day to die.

Directed by Gillian Moody and Adrian Russell Wills

Where you can see it ABC iView

A journey into the emotional landscape of family, love and loss of two close friends, both Aboriginal, who were adopted by white families and have connected back with their bloodline families.

The Last Daughter

Directed by Brenda Matthews and Nathaniel Schmidt Featuring Brenda Matthews Mark Matthews and Mac Ockers

Where you can see it Netflix

Our coverage Interview: Brenda Matthews

Brenda’s first memories were of growing up in a loving white foster family, before she was suddenly taken away and returned to her Aboriginal family.

Decades later, she feels disconnected from both halves of her life. But the traumas of her past do not lie quietly buried. So, she goes searching for the foster family with whom she had lost all contact.

Along the way she uncovers long-buried secrets, government lies, and the possibility for deeper connections to family and culture. The Last Daughter is a documentary about Brenda’s journey to unearth the truth about her past, and to reconcile the two sides of her family.

The Lies We Tell Ourselves

Written, directed and produced by Saara Lamberg Starring Saara Lamberg, Ezel Doruk, Jane Badler

Where you can see it Lido Cinemas from February 1, 2024. General release TBA.

An eccentric director on the rise travels to Cannes, Berlin, New Caledonia, Australia and England to create her latest art house film and jumps many entertaining hurdles before realizing her vision.

Written and directed by Ivan Sen Produced by Rachel Higgins, David Jowsey and Greer Simpkin

Where you can see it ABC iView, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube, Prime Video

Our coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #95 | Ivan Sen and Simon Baker

Limbo follows the investigation of a twenty year-old outback cold case murder by jaded detective Travis Hurley.

Directed by Anthony Ring Written by Lisa Bertoldo Produced by Lisa Bertoldo and Anthony Ring Starring Lisa Bertoldo, Daryl Heath and Shaun Dreiberg

Where you can see it General release date TBA

A young woman’s life is thrown into turmoil after a tragic loss. Constantly fighting the perils of rural life and the constant criticism and pressure from the media and her family.

Love is in the Air

Directed by Adrian Powers Written by Adrian Powers, Caera Bradshaw and Katharine McPhee Produced by Steve Jaggi, Kylie Pascoe and Kelly Son Hing Starring Delta Goodrem, Joshua Sasse and Roy Billing

Our coverage Interview: Adrian Powers

A seaplane pilot flying in the tropics finds herself falling for the man sent to sink her business.

Written, directed and produced by Ulysses Oliver Starring Aileen Beale, Shalane Connors and Ishak Issa

Our coverage Interview: Ulysses Oliver

A romance road movie tracking the break-down of a relationship across the same terrain but over three different time periods.

Directed by John Curran Written by John Curran, Jesse Heffring and Christopher Lee Pelletier Produced by Alex Proyas, Daniaile Jarry, Gary Hamilton, Michelle Krumm, Penny Karlin and Ying Ye Starring Luke Bracey Huw Higginson and Toby Jones

Where you can see it Apple TV, Google Play, Prime Video

Pushed to the limit and on the edge of sanity, single father Tom learns just how far he must go to protect what matters most to him. His daughter Ruby has been abducted, and to save her, he must carry out a series of tasks as instructed by a disembodied, psychopathic voice on the other side of a phone call. Battling against near-impossible odds, Tom realises that the true ransom demanded of him is a piece of his own soul.

Directed by Matt Vesely Written by Lucy Campbell Produced by Bettina Hamilton Starring Lily Sullivan, Ling Cooper Tang and Ansuya Nathan

Where you can see it Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, YouTube and Fetch TV

Our coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #99 Matt Vesely | Interview: Lily Sullivan

This claustrophobic sci-fi thriller follows a disgraced journalist confronted with an unexplained artefact that may not be of this world, but is about to become the centre of hers.

The Musical Mind… A Portrait in Process

Directed by Scott Hicks Produced by Kerry Heysen Written by Jethro Heysen-Hicks Featuring Daniel Johns, David Helfgott and Ben Folds

Our coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #106 | Scott Hicks

Inspired by the 25th Anniversary of ‘Shine (1996)’, the mysterious world of musical genius of brilliant musicians is explored as well as transformational story-telling, the mystery of prodigy and the impact of music on the brain.

My Darling in Stirling

Written, directed and produced by Bill Mousoulis Starring Amelie Dunda, Henry Cooper, Tina Crawford, Lisa Boothey, Joshua Blenkiron and Grace Mezak

Where you can watch it General release date TBA

Told entirely through song, My Darling in Stirling recounts the story of Emma, a young girl who, on a spontaneous trip to visit her aunt in Stirling, falls in love with a local boy.

The New Boy

Written and directed by Warwick Thornton Produced by Cate Blanchett, Lorenzo De Maio, Georgie Pym, Kath Shelper and Andrew Upton Starring Cate Blanchett, Aswan Reid, Deborah Mailman and Wayne Blair

Where you can se it Google Play, Apple TV Store and Prime Video

Academy Award winner Cate Blanchett stars in this Cannes-selected drama from acclaimed Australian filmmaker Warwick Thornton.

Set in 1940s Australia, the film depicts the mesmeric story of a nine-year-old Aboriginal orphan boy who arrives in the dead of night at a remote monastery run by a renegade nun (Blanchett). The new boy’s presence disturbs the delicately balanced world in this story of spiritual struggle and the cost of survival.

OneFour: Against All Odds

Directed by Gabriel Gasparinatos Written by Gabriel Gasparinatos, Erin Moy and Joseph Nizeti Produced by Erin Moy, Sarah Noonan and Jennifer Peedom

This documentary traces the meteoric rise of Australia’s first drill rap stars, defiant in the face of police’s efforts to stop them from performing.

Written and directed by Tim Carlier Produced by Tim Carlier and Tim Hodgson Starring Manuel Ashman

The surreal metafictional comic odyssey of a sound recordist in search of his most crucial possession – his radio microphone. When an actress runs away with one of Manny’s microphones he must retrieve it or face dire consequences. Hearing only the sound from Manny’s boom microphone, and the runaway actress’ radio mic, we follow Manny on a treacherous journey through Music Videos, Timetravellers, the dreaded Sound Council and more.

Written and directed by Alena Lodkina Produced by Kate Laurie Starring Nathalie Morris and Hannah Lynch

Our coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #96 | Alena Lodkina

An idealistic film student is drawn into a shadowy and intoxicating world when she befriends an enigmatic performance artist.

The Portable Door

Directed by Jeffrey Walker Written by Leon Ford Produced by Todd Fellman Starring Christoph Waltz, Patrick Gibson, Damon Herriman and Sam Neill

Paul Carpenter is an intern at a mysterious London firm with unconventional employers, including a CEO who wants to disrupt the ancient magical world with modern corporate practices.

Written and directed by Jack Dignan Produced by Jack Dignan and Morgan Wright Starring Kaitlyn Boyé, Laneikka Denne, Cassandre Girard, Janelle McMenamin, Matias Klaver and Hazel Pompeani

Where you can see it 2024 release date TBA

Our coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #102 | Jack Dignan

Puzzle Box follows substance abuser Kait (Kaitlyn Boyé) who flees to a house in the woods to self-rehabilitate, while her sister Olivia (Laneikka Denne) joins to document the process. Following their arrival the house’s layout begins to change, trapping them inside an inescapable puzzle box.

Rachel’s Farm

Directed by Rachel Ward and Ljudan Michaelis-Thorpe Written by Rachel Ward

Where you can see it DocPlay, Apple TV, YouTube, Prime Vide, Fetch, Google Play, Vimeo and Microsoft

Film director and actress Rachel Ward is not the first person you’d expect to join a farming revolution. In this triumphant film, Rachel voyages from wilful ignorance about the ecological impacts of conventional agriculture on her own rural property, to embracing a movement to restore the health of Australia’s farmland, food and climate.

Written and directed by Brad Newland Produced by Marina Martini and Brad Newland Starring Mason Hewett, Sascha Turich and Brad Newland

Where you can see it Sunday, January 14 at The Backlot Perth. General release date TBA.

After spending a night asleep in a high-powered radio telescope dish, Jack acquires a unique skill of being able to transmit all types of radio waves in his mind. Prior to this incident Jack is having a bad run, he has just broken up with his girlfriend, lost his job and has no money and is about to be kicked out of his house.

Rainbow Video

Written, directed and produced by Jessie Scott

Our coverage Interview: Jessie Scott

Inspired by Tom Roston’s oral history ‘I Lost it at the Video Store’, this playful feature length documentary uses a deep local focus to show how VHS changed art forever. As the video shop era fades to black, RAINBOW VIDEO delves into the eclectic personal collections and practices of some of Melbourne’s most renowned contemporary media artists. Through lively interviews and site studies of many legendary, now defunct video shops, RAINBOW VIDEO uncovers a secret history of a brief but impactful era. For those of us who grew up in the 80s-we were the video generation.

Born into the video shop era, our youths passed along with it. And although it was a mass pop-cultural phenomenon, artists, filmmakers and weirdos of all stripes also flocked to these places on a Friday night and worked in them (or wished they did). Artists and programmers such as Philip Brophy, Ian Haig, Cassandra Tytler, Xanthe Dobbie, Jean Lizza, Diego Ramirez and Spiro Economopoulos delve into their own libraries, and back catalogues, to talk about how they used video shops: as a direct source of material, as an informal, accessible art school, and as a social space to trade in cultural capital. Against a backdrop of 30 years of constantly shifting technology, RAINBOW VIDEO explores a twin history of indie video shops and libraries in Melbourne, and the underground artists that used them, proving video shops weren’t just a plot point on the historical chart of film distribution, but a crucial period of transition, whose impact lives on.

Rampage Electra

Written and directed by Hassibullah Kushkaki Produced by Hassibullah Kushkaki and Juan Felipe Sarmiento Starring Mikayla Levy, James Broadhurst, Fiona Cooper and Vanessa Cobbs

Our coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #97 | Hassibullah Kushkaki

Hannah Electra has been expelled from five schools in three years. Outcast and labelled dangerous, Hannah is having a hard time understanding why. Hannah’s father has protected her from the truth, but it seems that Hannah is not a kid anymore. As Hannah’s father reveals the truth about her mother, events take place that change Hannah’s life forever.

The Red Shoes: Next Step

Directed by Jesse Ahern and Joanne Samuel Written by John Banas, Zachary Layner and Peter McLeod Produced by Jesse Ahern Starring Juliet Doherty, Lauren Esposito and Joel Burke

Where you can see it Apple TV, Google Play, Prime Video and YouTube

When Sam’s world begins to spiral following an unexpected life-changing event, she must confront her emotions and fear to reignite her deep love for dance.

The Rooster

Written and directed by Mark Leonard Winter Produced by Geraldine Hakewill and Mahveen Shahraki Starring Phoenix Raei and Hugo Weaving

Where you can see it In cinemas from February 22, 2024

Our coverage Interview: Mark Leonard Winter

When the body of his oldest friend is found buried in a shallow grave, Dan, a small-town cop, seeks answers from a volatile Hermit who may have been the last person to see his friend alive.

The Royal Hotel

Directed by Kitty Green Written by Kitty Green and Oscar Redding Produced by Liz Watts, Emile Sherman, Kath Shelper and Iain Canning

Our coverage Interview: Kitty Green

Backpackers Hanna and Liv take a job in a remote Australian pub for some extra cash and are confronted with a bunch of unruly locals and a situation that grows rapidly out of their control.

Run Rabbit Run

Directed by Daina Reid Written by Hannah Kent Produced by Anna McLeish and Sarah Shaw Starring Sarah Snook, Lily LaTorre and Neil Melville

Sarah Snook plays a fertility doctor who believes firmly in life and death, but after noticing the strange behavior of her young daughter, she must challenge her own values and confront a ghost from her past.

A Savage Christmas

Directed by Madeleine Dyer Written by Madeleine Dyer, Max Jahufer and Daniel Mulvihill Produced by Madeleine Dyer, Ben McNeill and Daniel Mulvihill Starring Helen Thomson, David Roberts, Rekha Ryan, Darren Gilshenan, Ryan Morgan, Max Jahufer and Thea Raveneau

After years of estrangement, trans woman Davina Savage returns home for Christmas. Expecting her transition to be the focus, it’s overshadowed by family secrets and lies which threaten not only their lives – but another Christmas lunch.

Directed by Ricard Cussó and Tania Vincent Written by Craig Behenna, Matt Everitt and Nathan Jurevicius Produced by Nadine Bates, Sophie Byrne, Ryan Greaves and Kristen Souvlis Starring Jillian Nguyen, Sam Neill, Tim Minchin, Anna Torv, Liv Hewson, Mark Coles Smith, Deborah Mailman and Dylan Alcott

Where you can see it Now available on disc

Our coverage Interview: Jillian Nguyen

When her world is threatened by a loss of sunlight, a young girl must overcome her fears and journey to a fantastical city, save her father from a mysterious scientist and prevent the destruction of her planet.

Written and directed by Noora Niasari Produced by Vincent Sheehan and Noora Niasari Starring Zar Amir Ebrahimi, Leah Purcell, Osamah Sami, Selina Zahednia and Jillian Nguyen

Shayda, a brave Iranian mother, finds refuge in an Australian women’s shelter with her six-year-old daughter. Over Persian New Year, they take solace in Nowruz rituals and new beginnings, but when her estranged husband re-enters their lives, Shayda’s path to freedom is jeopardised.

Directed by Susie Dee and Trudy Hellier Written by Patricia Cornelius Produced by Jannine Barnes and Eyvonne Carfora Starring Peta Brady, Sarah Ward, Nicci Wilks, Sam O’Reilly and Madeleine Dyer

Over one long night of incarceration in a holding cell, Billy, Bobby and Sam reveal their stories, of a lifetime of violence, of abuse, of institutionalisation, told with unsentimental, sometimes comical, often gut-wrenching insight. They’ve done something terrible, but all they’ve got to do is keep it together, to keep their mouths zipped. Sam has fallen apart and become a liability, while Billy and Bobby spend the night trying to hold tight, keeping them solid, a complete three… but life has finally caught up with them. They’re right, they think, they’ll be fine, they think, no-one will discover they’ve committed a dreadful crime. They will stay together. Because what they fear most is to be separated.

Directed by James Vinson Written by Michael Nikou Produced by Monique Fisher, Tessa Mansfield-Hung, Michael Nikou, Alexandros Ouzas and James Vinson Starring Michael Nikou, Sigrid Thornton, Ra Chapman, Ryan A. Murphy, Kate Lister, Elle Mandalis and Pia Miranda

Our coverage Interview: Michael Nikou | Interview: Sigrid Thornton

Melbourne. 1999. Christmas time. In this darkly comic thriller, a career-crazed journalist dredges up the sordid secrets of an infamous socialite after her mysterious disappearance.

Sleeping Beauties

Written and directed by Stuart Simpson Produced by Intan Kieflie and Judd Tilyard Starring Intan Kieflie, Jeffery Richards, Mandie Combe

Cahya gets a job as a maid working in an isolated old mansion. Pregnant and a recent widow, she is desperate to reconnect with her husband, opening a doorway to the spirit world. And in doing so, inadvertently awakens the tormented ghosts of her current employer, the previous maids.

Streets of Colour

Written and directed by Ronnie S. Riskalla Produced by Yolandi Franken and Ronnie S. Riskalla Starring Rahel Romahn, Veronica Cloherty, Elliott Giarola, Thuso Lekwape, Peter Maple and Athiéi

Where you can see it Apple TV, Google Play, Prime Video, YouTube and Fetch

After being blamed for the death of his best friend in a racist street fight. Tez a 25 year old drug dealer loses custody to a son he’s never met. He must now find a way to get his life back on track and get his son before it’s too late.

Directed by Heidi Lee Douglas Written by Tsu Shan Chambers and Lily Cheng Produced by Tsu Shan Chambers Starring Paul W. He, Jenny Wu and Grace Huang

Where you can see it Apple TV, Google Play, Prime Video and Fetch

In Western Sydney where crime gangs rule, the Yang clan’s thirst for power continues to threaten the lives of many. The Dawood family is their only line of defence against them. Wasiya, the Dawood matriarch, stealthily forges alliances to quash the hold of the Yang family – led by their patriarch, Jun– who murdered her husband when she was heavily pregnant.

Written and directed by Gabriel Carrubba Produced by Zane Borg Starring Liam Mollica, Luke J. Morgan, Olivia F ildes , Daniel Halmarick and Elias Anton

Our coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #100 | Gabriel Carrubba

A seventeen-year-old boy struggles to understand and embrace his sexuality as he comes of age in the working class suburbs on Melbourne’s edge.

Sun Moon & Thalia

Written, directed and produced by Arnold Luke Carter Starring Claudia Haines-Cappeau, Grady Swithenbank, Jesse Hislop and Ashton Bolt

After witnessing a star fall to earth, young author Pandora makes a deal with the Moon to use the stars abilities to watch the dreams of people through a window in a room in her mind. One day she finds herself stuck in the room unable to wake up, with a man on the other side of her window in his own dream room, and two mysterious phones to speak through.

Claudia Haines-Cappeau in Sun Moon & Thalia.

Sweet Rhythm

Directed by Dylan Randall and George Burton Written by Dylan Randall Starring Prudence Ackrill, Hannah Julii Anderson and Lainey O’Sullivan

Our coverage Dylan Randall fills us in on his new rock ‘n’ roll romance, Sweet Rhythm

Sweet Rhythm is a 1977 Rock N’ Roll, Jazz and Disco inspired musical that follows Jennifer, Dani and Stephanie as they experience the thrills of being in their 20s.

Directed by Danny Philippou and Michael Philippou Written by Danny Philippou and Bill Hinzman Starring Sophie Wilde, Zoe Terakes, Miranda Otto, Joe Bird and Alexandra Jensen

Where you can see it Netflix, Google Play, Apple TV, YouTube, Prime Video and disc

Our coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #98 | Danny & Michael Philippou

When a group of friends discover how to conjure spirits using an embalmed hand, they become hooked on the new thrill, until one of them goes too far and unleashes terrifying supernatural forces.

Directed by Amin Palangi Written by Amin Palangi and Osamah Sami Starring Osamah Sami, Faezeh Alavi and Robert Rabiah

Our coverage Interview: Amin Palangi

Arash arrives in Australia to reunite with the love of his life, Nazanin. After heading to a cabin in the woods, Arash soon realizes his elusive lover is harboring deep secrets, leading him down a path of self-destruction.

Time Addicts

Written and directed by Sam Odlum Produced by Tessa Mansfield-Hung, Sam Odlum and Alexandros Ouzas Starring Freya Tingley, Charles Grounds. Joshua Morton and Elise Jansen

Where you can see it In select cinemas now. General home release TBA

In desperate debt to their volatile drug dealer, best friends, Denise and Johnny, agree to a sketchy job to pay off their last hit – breaking into a decrepit stash house to steal a bag of mysterious drugs. But whilst getting into the house may be easy, escape proves more troublesome, as the pair find themselves trapped inside with a deranged fiend.

With no way out and not one to miss an opportunity, Johnny smokes the new drug and promptly travels into the past, triggering alarming new events in the future. Separated through time, Denise is left alone to confront her past, their dealer Kane’s real identity, and her very own existence.

True Spirit

Directed by Sarah Spillane Written by Sarah Spillane, Rebecca Banner and Cathy Randall Produced by Susan Cartsonis, Debra Martin Chase and Andrew Fraser Starring Teagan Croft, Alyla Browne, Cliff Curtis, Josh Lawson and Anna Paquin

The story of Australian teenager, Jessica Watson, the youngest person ever to sail solo, non-stop around the world.

The Survival of Kindness

Written and directed by Rolf de Heer Produced by Julie Byrne and Rolf de Heer Starring Mwajemi Hussein, Darsan Sharma and Deepthi Sharma

Where you can see it Fetch, Apple TV, Google Play, Prime Video

Our coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #93 | Rolf de Heer

Followed by BlackWoman, who is abandoned in a cage in the middle of the desert. Once she escapes the cage, she walks from desert to mountain to city, to find – more captivity.

This is Going to be Big

Directed by Thomas Charles Hyland Produced by Catherine Bradbury Featuring Halle, Josh and Chelsea

Peer behind the curtain as a cast of neurodivergent teens prepare to come of age and hit the stage in their school’s time-travelling, John Farnham–themed musical.

Three Chords and the Truth

Written and directed by Claire Pasvolsky Produced by Bin Li, Steve Pasvolsky and Ian Sutherland Starring Jackie Marshall, Maisie Owens, Matthew Heys, Timothy Blundell and Leigh Ivin

If Angie wasn’t so self-sabotaging, she could have been one of Australia’s leading musicians. Now in her forties, she finds herself terminally ill and alone. She struggles financially and plays in a seedy pub to fund the recording of her final album. When Angie meets Ruby, a teenage runaway, the two form an unlikely bond when Angieteaches her to play guitar and write songs… but as Ruby becomes reliant on Angie, it becomes unbearable for Angie to tell her new young friend that she only has months to live.

Written, directed and produced by Steven J. Mihaljevich Starring Georgia Eyers, Angela Punch McGregor, Sam Dudley and Jay Jay Jegathesan

Where you can see it The Backlot Perth January 7, 10 and 13

Our coverage Cinema Australia Podcast #104: Georgia Eyers

A series of strange child disappearances have left the rural town of Miles in a state of disbelief. A sick Mother Sonya, fears unspeakable evil will soon snatch her 11 year old daughter Violett, from her sight.

Watandar, My Countryman

Directed by Jolyon Hoff Written by Muzafar Ali, Jolyon Hoff and Kate Stone Produced by Muzafar Ali, Jolyon Hoff and Hamish Gibbs Ludbrook

When former Afghan Refugee Muzafar Ali, discovers that Afghans have been an integral part of Australia for over 160 years, he begins to photograph their descendants in a search to define his own new Afghan-Australian identity. Then the Taliban take over Afghanistan and his old country comes calling.

Westermarck Effect

Written, directed and produced by Saara Lamberg Starring Saara Lamberg, Jayden Denke and Kevin Dee

Sally gave her son Sam up for adoption 20 years ago and when they reunite, they fall passionately in love with devastating consequences.

White Blood

Written, directed and produced by Richard Williams Starring Arielle Cartwright and Liam Walker

Where you can see it Google Play, YouTube Movies and disc

Written, produced and directed by Williams, White Blood is an intense thriller that explores the complex themes of mental health and toxic relationships, following Betty (Arielle Cartwright) and Mark (Liam Walker), a young couple who plan on acting out a suicide pact during one last romantic trip to a rural cabin, until the mental turmoil slowly turns them against each other. This film, which was produced during the height of the pandemic lockdowns in Australia, features a cast of two and a single location, making for an exceptionally personal viewing experience.

You Me and the Penguins

Directed by Christine Luby Starring Tammin Sursok, Jason Wilder, Madeleine West, Nick Hardcastle and Martin Dingle Wall

Tilly works at the NYC Animal Discovery Institute, but dreams of getting out of the office and into the field. So, when the Crystal Bay Penguin Centre is threatened with closure, she seizes the opportunity and travels to Australia to save the Centre. What she doesn’t expect, is to fall in love with the Penguins… and their pragmatic keeper Dr. Fletcher Grant.

You’ll Never Find Me

Directed by Josiah Allen and Indianna Bell Produced by Josiah Allen, Indianna Bell, Jordan Cowan, Christine Williams Starring Jordan Cowan and Brendan Rock

Our coverage Interview: Indianna Bell & Josiah Allen

Patrick, a strange and lonely resident, lives in a mobile home at the back of an isolated caravan park. After a violent thunderstorm erupts, a mysterious young woman appears at his door, seeking shelter from the weather. The longer the night wears on and the more the young woman discovers about Patrick, the more difficult she finds it to leave. Soon she begins to question Patrick’s intentions, while Patrick begins to question his own grip on reality.

Brendan Rock as Patrick in You’ll Never Find Me .

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The new movies you can watch at australian cinemas this week.

Head to the flicks to see a powerful newspaper drama about bringing down Harvey Weinstein, an inspiring Australian documentary and Alejandro González Iñárritu's latest.

Something delightful has been happening in cinemas in some parts of the country. After numerous periods spent empty during the pandemic, with projectors silent, theatres bare and the smell of popcorn fading, picture palaces in many Australian regions are back in business — including both big chains and smaller independent sites in Sydney , Melbourne and Brisbane .

During COVID-19 lockdowns, no one was short on things to watch, of course. In fact, you probably feel like you've streamed every movie ever made, including new releases ,  Studio Ghibli's animated fare and Nicolas Cage-starring flicks . But, even if you've spent all your time of late glued to your small screen, we're betting you just can't wait to sit in a darkened room and soak up the splendour of the bigger version. Thankfully, plenty of new films are hitting cinemas so that you can do just that — and we've rounded up, watched and reviewed everything on offer this week.

Questions flow freely in She Said , the powerful and methodical All the President's Men and Spotlight -style newspaper drama that tells the story behind the past decade's biggest entertainment story. On-screen, Zoe Kazan ( Clickbait ) and Carey Mulligan ( The Dig ) tend to be doing the asking, playing now Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times journalists Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey. They query Harvey Weinstein's actions, including his treatment of women. They gently and respectfully press actors and Miramax employees about their traumatic dealings with the Hollywood honcho, and they politely see if some — if any — will go on the record about their experiences. And, they question Weinstein and others at his studio about accusations that'll lead to this famous headline: " Harvey Weinstein Paid Off Sexual Harassment Accusers for Decades ".

As the entire world read at the time, those nine words were published on October 5, 2017, along with the distressing article that detailed some — but definitely not all — of Weinstein's behaviour. Everyone has witnessed the fallout, too, with Kantor and Twohey's story helping spark the #MeToo movement, electrifying the ongoing fight against sexual assault and gender inequality in the entertainment industry, and shining a spotlight on the gross misuses of authority that have long plagued Tinseltown. The piece also brought about Weinstein's swift downfall. As well as being sentenced to 23 years in prison in New York in 2020, he's currently standing trial for further charges in Los Angeles. Watching She Said , however, more questions spring for the audience. Here's the biggest heartbreaker: how easily could Kantor and Twohey's article never have come to fruition at all, leaving Weinstein free to continue his predatory harassment?

In a female-driven movie on- and off-screen — including director Maria Schrader ( I'm Your Man ), screenwriter Rebecca Lenkiewicz ( Small Axe ) and cinematographer Natasha Braier ( Honey Boy ) — She Said details all the moments where the pivotal piece of reporting could've been forced to take no for an answer, something that Weinstein wasn't known for. At the NYT , assistant managing editor Rebecca Corbett (Patricia Clarkson, Sharp Objects ) and executive editor Dean Baquet (Andre Braugher, Brooklyn Nine-Nine ) are always supportive, starting when Kantor picks up the story, and continuing when she brings in Twohey fresh off an investigative article into Donald Trump's sexual misconduct. But, unsurprisingly, the women made victims by Weinstein are wary. Many also signed non-disclosure agreements. Kantor and Twohey's pitch: by speaking out and ideally going on the record, they can assist in ensuring that what they endured doesn't happen to anyone else.

Knowing the end result, and the whole reason that She Said exists, doesn't dampen the film's potency or tension. Instead, it heightens the appreciation for the bravery of those who spoke out — at first and afterwards — and the care with which Kantor and Twohey handled their task. The two reporters knew that they were asking women to revisit their darkest traumas, make their worst ordeals public and take on a man who'd been untouchable for decades (with the spate of NDAs and settlements with many of his targets to prove it). Even Rose McGowan (voiced by The Plot Against America 's Keilly McQuail) is hesitant; she's mentioned but not quoted in the final piece. Persevering to bring Weinstein's crimes to attention, Kantor and Twohey keep digging, and keep trying to persuade their potential interviewees — and She Said doubles as a lesson in compassionately and respectfully doing just that.

Read our full review .

BARDO, FALSE CHRONICLE OF A HANDFUL OF TRUTHS

Everyone wants to be the person at the party that the dance floor revolves around, and life in general as well, or so Alejandro González Iñárritu contends in Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths . In one of the film's many spectacularly shot scenes — with the dual Best Director Oscar-winning Birdman and The Revenant helmer benefiting from astonishing lensing by Armageddon Time cinematographer Darius Khondji — the camera swirls and twirls around Silverio Gama (Daniel Giménez Cacho, Memoria ), the movie's protagonist, making him the only person that matters in a heaving crowd. Isolated vocals from David Bowie's 'Let's Dance' boom, and with all the more power without music behind them, echoing as if they're only singing to Silverio. Iñárritu is right: everyone does want a moment like this. Amid the intoxicating visuals and vibe, he's also right that such instances are fleeting. And, across his sprawling and surreal 159-minute flick, he's right that such basking glory and lose-yourself-to-dance bliss can never be as fulfilling as anyone wants.

That sequence comes partway through Bardo , one of several that stun through sheer beauty and atmosphere, and that Iñárritu layers with the disappointment of being himself. Everyone wants to be the filmmaker with all the fame and success, breaking records, winning prestigious awards and conquering Hollywood, he also contends. Alas, when you're this Mexican director, that isn't as joyous or uncomplicated an experience as it sounds. On-screen, his blatant alter ego is a feted documentarian rather than a helmer of prized fiction. He's a rare Latino recipient of a coveted accolade, one of Bardo 's anchoring events. He's known to make ambitious works with hefty titles — False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths is both the IRL movie's subtitle and the name of Silverio's last project — and he's been largely based in the US for decades. Yes, parallels abound.

While dubbing Bardo as semi-autobiographical is one of the easiest ways to describe it, simplicity isn't one of its truths, even if the film champions the small things in life as existential essentials. Another easy way to outline Bardo : Silverio faces his choices, regrets and achievements as that shiny trophy looms, and ponders where his career has taken him, who it's made him and what that all means to him. From the filmmaker who first earned attention for telling narratives in a fractured, multi-part fashion (see: his debut Amores Perros , plus 21 Grams and Babel ), and lately has loved roving and roaming cinematography that unfurls in the lengthiest of takes (see: Birdman and The Revenant ), this was never going to be a straightforward affair, though. And so he weaves and wanders, and has the silver-haired Silverio do the same, while weighing up what's brought them both to this point.

Bardo opens by visibly recalling Birdman , with a bounding force casting a shadow upon an arid land, but it's an early glimpse at a house from above that encapsulates Iñárritu's approach best. The home initially resembles a miniature, which Silverio then flits through — and, given its lead often segues between places and times like he's stepping through a doorway, the movie functions in the same manner. Sometimes, he's in a hospital corridor as his wife Lucía (Griselda Siciliani, The People Upstairs ) gives birth to a baby boy who whispers that the world is too broken for him to want to live in, and is then pushed back into the womb. Or, he's picturing how a big TV interview with a bitter ex-colleague could go wrong, or shrinking down to childhood size to chat with his deceased father. Sometimes, Silverio is in Los Angeles holding a bag of axolotls, or striding through Mexico City streets that are empty except for corpses.

GREENHOUSE BY JOOST

When Joost Bakker helped pile 3000 kilograms of clothing waste in Melbourne's Federation Square in April 2022, all to draw attention to fast fashion, he viewed the project with his usual optimism. "Even if it's just one person who walks through that structure and gets inspired and comes up with a solution — that's what's so exciting," the renowned zero-waste campaigner noted . Those exact words could've been uttered about the venture at the centre of Greenhouse by Joost , too. A three-storey home made entirely out of recyclable materials that don't generate waste, and designed to operate as a closed food system with everything catered for onsite and not a scrap spared, it predates his spotlight on the textile industry. Clearly, it boasts the same sustainability focus. In fact, Bakker could've said the same thing about past pop-ups in the same spot over more than a decade, including fellow waste-free eateries also called Greenhouse since 2008. Scratch that — it isn't merely likely that the Dutch-born floral designer and activist could've expressed the same sentiments; it's certain he must've.

Eliminating waste is Bakker's passion. Not wasting any time trying to put that aim into action is just as much of an obsession. His work doesn't merely talk the talk but walks the walk, and attempts to help the world see how crucial it is to reduce humanity's impact upon the earth. The habitable Greenhouse is quite the undertaking, though, given its purpose: building an abode that two people can get shelter, food, water and energy from, all in one cosy and clever self-sustaining ecosystem. Chefs Jo Barrett and Matt Stone (ex-Oakridge Wines) agreed to do the residing, and to put Bakker's Future Food System to the test. They were named among the world's 50 best next-generation hospitality leaders in 2021 for their efforts, for what's a vital, pioneering and fascinating enterprise. It's no wonder that filmmakers Rhian Skirving ( Matilda & Me ) and Bruce Permezel ( The Obesity Myth ) — both directing, the former writing and the latter lensing — were driven to document it.

Shot since the conception and building stage, then chronicling the COVID-19 setbacks, the logistical and setup woes, and the daily reality of living in the structure, it's also no wonder that the resulting Melbourne International Film Festival Audience Award-winner makes such compelling viewing. Greenhouse by Joost is both a record and an aspirational tool: it shows what can and has been done and, as Bakker always hopes, it wants to get everyone watching following in his, Barrett and Stone's footsteps. Of course, for most, money will be a very real and practical obstacle. There's no doubting that Greenhouse stems from considerable resources, both in finances and time. But that's the thing with ambitions: they have us shooting for the stars, breaking our goals down into everyday pieces and finding ways to make even small parts of them happen. Evoking that exact response when it comes to making life's basics sustainable — what we eat and drink, where we stay and sleep, and how we power it all — is Bakker's aim, too.

With Bakker as the film's on-screen guide, Greenhouse by Joost does just that itself as well, stepping through the idea and the execution like it's laying out a roadmap for its audience to chart. Viewers won't walk out of the doco ready to move into their own such dwelling, but learning plenty about the ingenious design, the bits and pieces that go into it, and the work required — to get it up, ready and operating smoothly, and also to have it function as a small-scale restaurant — comes with simply watching. Although the cooking, serving, welcoming in eager diners and sharing the titular building comes later in the movie, obviously, it's a crucial piece of the project overall and of Skirving and Permezel's feature. How much more doable does just living in the Greenhouse and taking care of yourself seem compared to running it as a mini eatery? Oh-so-much. How much easier does putting some of its principles to use in your own home seem, too? The answer remains the same.

MILLIE LIES LOW

A scene-stealer in 2018's The Breaker Upperers , Ana Scotney now leads the show in Millie Lies Low . She's just as magnetic. The New Zealand actor comes to the part via Wellington Paranormal , Shortland Street , Educators and Cousins — and the film first debuted at festivals before her role in God's Favourite Idiot — but it's an exceptional calling card. It isn't easy playing someone so committed to making such utterly questionable choices, yet remaining so charmingly relatable; however, that's Scotney's remit and achievement in this canny, savvy and amusing comedy. It also isn't easy to pull off the timing needed to highlight the hilarious side of Millie's hijinks, while ensuring that her woes, hopes and everything that's led her to lie low but lie about living it up remain understandable; consider her entire portrayal a masterclass in just that.

Scotney plays the film's eponymous Wellington university student, who panics aboard a plane bound for New York — where a prestigious architecture internship awaits — and has to disembark before her flight leaves. She says she isn't anxious. She also says it isn't an attack. And by the time she realises what she's done, she's alone in the airport, the aircraft has departed and her own face beams down at her from a digital billboard. Even getting that Big Apple opportunity had made her the toast of the town, and huge things were meant to await, hence the ads and publicity. Now, a new ticket costs $2000, which Millie doesn't have. Admitting that she hasn't gone at all — to her family, friends, teachers, school and the NZ capital at large — wouldn't cost her a thing, but it's a price she isn't willing to pay.

First, Millie endeavours to rustle up the cash from her best friend and classmate (Jillian Nguyen, Hungry Ghosts ), and then her mother (Rachel House, Heartbreak High ). Next, she hits up a quick-loan business (run by Cohen Holloway, The Power of the Dog ) but is still left empty-handed. Millie's only solution, other than admitting the situation and facing the fallout: faking it till she makes it. As she searches for other ways to stump up the funds, she hides out in her hometown, telling everyone that she's actually already in NYC. To support her ruse, she posts elaborate faux Instagram snaps MacGyvered out of whatever she can find (big sacks of flour standing in for snow, for instance) and scours for every possible spot, building feature and poster that can even slightly double for New York.

There's a caper vibe to Millie's efforts skulking around Wellington while attempting to finance the ticket to her apparent dreams. Sometimes, she's holed up in a tent in her mum's backyard. Sometimes, she's putting on a disguise and showing up at parties in her old flat — eavesdropping on what her mates are saying in her absence, and spying on the boyfriend (Chris Alosio, Troppo ) she's meant to be on a break from. While she's doing the latter, she's also reclaiming the car she sold pre-trip to use as loan collateral, because she's that determined to get to America and leave her nearest and dearest none the wiser. Making her feature debut, director and co-writer Michelle Savill has more than just a laugh and a lark in her sights, though, as entertaining as Millie Lies Low 's namesake's antics are. There's a caper vibe to the picture of Millie's supposedly perfect existence that she's trying to push upon herself as much as her loved ones as well, like she's selling herself on an unwanted fantasy.

If you're wondering what else is currently screening in Australian cinemas — or has been lately — check out our rundown of new films released in Australia on  August 4 , August 11 , August 18 and August 25 ; September 1 , September 8 , September 15 , September 22 and September 29 ; October 6 , October 13 , October 20 and October 27 ; and November 3 and November 10 .

You can also read our full reviews of a heap of recent movies, such as  Bullet Train , Nope , The Princess , 6 Festivals , Good Luck to You, Leo Grande , Crimes of the Future , Bosch & Rockit , Fire of Love , Beast , Blaze , Hit the Road , Three Thousand Years of Longing , Orphan: First Kill , The Quiet Girl , Flux Gourmet , Bodies Bodies Bodies , Moonage Daydream , Ticket to Paradise , Clean , You Won't Be Alone , See How They Run , Smile , On the Count of Three , The Humans , Don't Worry Darling , Amsterdam , The Stranger , Halloween Ends , The Night of the 12th , Muru , Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon , Black Adam , Barbarian , Decision to Leave , The Good Nurse , Bros , The Woman King , Sissy ,  Armageddon Time ,  The Wonder , Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and The Velvet Queen .

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With so many streaming services and so much content to consume, finding a movie to watch can be more difficult than ever. Gone are the days of heading to the video store on a Friday night and choosing from the movies that were available to rent on the day. It’s a double-edged sword — we no longer have to race to get that last copy of the hot new release, but with so many platforms all competing for our attention, it can be hard to find the best new movies to stream. That’s where we come in.

We’ve curated a selection of great films that are just waiting to be discovered from the comfort of your own screen. From gripping dramas to heartwarming comedies and pulse-pounding thrillers, our choices below have something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking an immersive escape, a thought-provoking journey, or just want something you can put on while you scroll through Instagram (because that’s valid, too!), we’ve got a film for you.

The Best New Movies to Stream

All of us strangers.

Directed by:  Andrew Haigh Written by:  Andrew Haigh, based on the novel by Taichi Yamada Starring:  Andrew Scott, Paul Mescal, Carter John Grout Synopsis:  A screenwriter drawn back to his childhood home enters into a fledgling relationship with a mysterious neighbour as he then discovers his parents appear to be living just as they were on the day they died, 30 years before. Where to watch: Streaming on Disney+

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Adapted from Taichi Yamada’s  Strangers ,  All of Us Strangers is a striking, haunting, and deeply moving film about love, grief, loneliness, and the nature of the human condition. Make sure you’ve got tissues handy — when I caught this at the Adelaide Film Festival in October last year, the whole cinema was audibly sniffling.

Directed by: Stephanie Allynne and Tig Notaro Written by: Lauren Pomerantz Starring: Dakota Johnson, Sonoya Mizuno, Jermaine Fowler Synopsis: Lucy and Jane have been best friends their entire lives. Only when Lucy embarks on a personal journey, will she face a test of her friendship, and her sense of self, on a path she may not be entirely ready to take. Where to watch: Streaming on BINGE

Don’t let the trailer still fool you — this is ultimately a feel-good film about friendship, with laughs along the way. Dakota Johnson is wonderful in this heartfelt romantic dramedy that will prompt you to lock in plans with your best friend, stat.

Asteroid City

Directed by:  Wes Anderson Written by:  Wes Anderson and Roman Coppola Starring:  Jason Schwartzman, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hanks Synopsis:  Following a writer on his world famous fictional play about a grieving father who travels with his tech-obsessed family to small rural Asteroid City to compete in a junior stargazing event, only to have his world view disrupted forever. Where to watch: Streaming on Netflix

Whether you respond well to  Asteroid City  or not will be largely dependent on your tolerance for Wes Anderson films in general, but if you’re a fan, then it will deliver.  Asteroid City  has all the eccentricities, style and of course, star-studded performances that we’ve come to expect from Anderson, and  critics  have been calling it his best film since  Moonrise Kingdom .

Related:   Ecological Grief and Uncontrollable Reality in Wes Anderson’s ‘Asteroid City’

Directed by:  Greta Gerwig Written by:  Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach Starring:  Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera Synopsis:  Barbie suffers a crisis that leads her to question her world and her existence. Where to watch: Streaming on Netflix

What can be said about  Barbie that hasn’t already been said? The film is a certified phenomenon, and finally, it’s available to stream on Netflix and BINGE. From the pitch perfect performances, to the script that will make you laugh and cry, to the costumes, production design and the unbeatable soundtrack, there’s a reason Barbie  has become a blockbuster.

Related:   “An Extraordinary Blessing”: Greta Gerwig on the ‘Barbie’ Movie Hype

Directed by:  Emma Seligman Written by:  Emma Seligman and Rachel Sennott Starring:  Rachel Sennott, Ayo Edebiri, Ruby Cruz Synopsis:  Two unpopular queer high-school students start a fight club to have sex before graduation. Where to watch: Streaming on Prime Video

A coming of age comedy that will have you laughing out loud from start to finish,  Bottoms  is destined to become a cult classic for Gen Z teens everywhere.

It’s the kind of film you can see being endlessly quoted in the same way that millennials had  Superbad  and  Superstar  back in the day, and it’s an incredibly worthy addition to the teen classics collection.

Directed by: Susanna Fogel Written by: Michelle Ashford, based on the short story by Kristen Roupenian Starring: Emilia Jones, Nicholas Braun, Geraldine Viswanathan Synopsis: When Margot, a college sophomore, goes on a date with the older Robert, she finds that he doesn’t live up to the Robert she has been flirting with over texts. A razor-sharp exploration of the horrors of dating. Where to watch: Streaming on BINGE

Based on the viral  New Yorker short story of the same name, the film adaptation of Cat Person was met with mixed reviews, particularly for the elements of the film that stray from the original story.

With that being said, Emilia Jones and Nicholas Braun deliver great performances, and the film still offers some genuinely tense moments. It may not work completely, but the film’s themes will linger in your mind after the credits have rolled.

Dicks: The Musical

Directed by: Larry Charles Written by: Aaron Jackson and Josh Sharp, based on the musical stage play F**king Identical Twins: The Musical Starring: Josh Sharp, Aaron Jackson, Nathan Lane Synopsis: A pair of business rivals discover that they’re identical twins and decide to swap places in an attempt to trick their divorced parents to get back together. Where to watch: Streaming on Paramount+

This film is diabolical and unhinged on a whole new level, and whether that’s a compliment or a criticism will vary from viewer to viewer. It certainly won’t be for everyone, but its the kind of film that’s destined to become a cult classic, rough edges and all.

Dream Scenario

Directed by:  Kristoffer Borgli Written by:  Kristoffer Borgli Starring:  Lily Bird, Nicolas Cage, Julianne Nicholson Synopsis:  A hapless family man finds his life turned upside down when millions of strangers suddenly start seeing him in their dreams. When his nighttime appearances take a nightmarish turn, Paul is forced to navigate his newfound stardom. Where to watch: Streaming on Netflix

If you enjoyed Nicolas Cage in  The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent , you’ll likely enjoy  Dream Scenario  as well. Cage is on point once again in this absurdist horror/satire that takes on cancel culture and celebrity worship — without becoming exhausting.

Directed by:  Craig Gillespie Written by:  Lauren Schuker Blum and Rebecca Angelo, based on the book by Ben Mezrich Starring:  Paul Dano, Pete Davidson, Vincent D’Onofrio Synopsis:  David vs. Goliath tale about everyday people who flipped the script on Wall Street and got rich by turning GameStop (the video game store) into the world’s hottest company. Where to watch: Streaming on BINGE

With its fast pace and funny script,  Dumb Money  hooks you in quickly and keeps you engaged throughout. Sure, the financial system may not have changed for good after the GameStop short squeeze, but this is an entertaining retelling of a historic moment where the little guy got to win for once.

Five Nights at Freddy’s

Directed by: Emma Tammi Written by: Screenplay by Scott Cawthon, Seth Cuddeback and Emma Tammi, screen story by Scott Cawthon, Chris Lee Hill and Tyler MacIntyre, based on the  Five Nights at Freddy’s  video game series by Scott Cawthon Starring:  Josh Hutcherson, Piper Rubio, Elizabeth Lail Synopsis: A troubled security guard begins working at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza. During his first night on the job, he realises that the night shift won’t be so easy to get through. Pretty soon he will unveil what actually happened at Freddy’s. Where to watch: Streaming on BINGE

Whether you’re a fan of the video game franchise or not,  Five Nights at Freddy’s is the kind of fun horror flick to chuck on at the end of a long week. If you  are a fan of the games, though, then you’ll have the added bonus of getting to spot all the Easter eggs scattered throughout the film.

Directed by: Richard Linklater Written by: Richard Linklater and Glen Powell, based on the Texas Monthly article by Skip Hollandsworth Starring:  Glen Powell, Adria Arjona, Austin Amelio Synopsis: A professor moonlighting as a hit man of sorts for his city police department, descends into dangerous, dubious territory when he finds himself attracted to a woman who enlists his services. Where to watch: Streaming on Netflix

Glen Powell is becoming one of Hollywood’s go-to stars, and  Hit Man  makes a good case for why that is. Powell shines in this smart, funny, and genuinely entertaining action rom-com.

The Idea of You

Directed by: Michael Showalter Written by: Screenplay by Michael Showalter and Jennifer Westfeldt, based on the novel by Robinne Lee Starring: Anne Hathaway, Nicholas Galitzine, Ella Rubin Synopsis: Solène, a 40-year-old single mom, begins an unexpected romance with 24-year-old Hayes Campbell, the lead singer of August Moon, the hottest boy band on the planet. Where to watch: Streaming on Prime Video

Looking for a rom-com? Look no further than  The Idea of You , a fun, frothy romance that may or may not be based on One Direction fan-fiction . The perfect pick for your next girls night in.

John Wick Chapter 4

Directed by:  Chad Stahelski Written by:  Shay Hatten, Michael Finch, Derek Kolstad Starring:  Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, George Georgiou Synopsis:  John Wick uncovers a path to defeating The High Table. But before he can earn his freedom, Wick must face off against a new enemy with powerful alliances across the globe and forces that turn old friends into foes. Where to watch:  Streaming on  BINGE

If you’re looking for action, look no further than  John Wick: Chapter 4 . Not only is it an entertaining, satisfying addition to the franchise, its perfectly structured set pieces and breathtaking action sequences will make sure that the John Wick franchise is remembered as one one of the greats of the franchise, along with  Die Hard , the  Terminator  franchise, and the  Mission: Impossible  films.

Leave the World Behind

Directed by: Sam Esmail Written by: Sam Esmail, based on the novel by Rumaan Alam Starring: Julia Roberts, Mahershala Ali, Ethan Hawke Synopsis: A family’s getaway to a luxurious rental home takes an ominous turn when a cyberattack knocks out their devices, and two strangers appear at their door. Where to watch: Streaming on Netflix

An apocalyptic thriller that will keep you guessing,  Leave the World Behind is the kind of film you’ll be left pondering for days.

Magic Mike’s Last Dance

Directed by: Steven Soderbergh Written by: Reid Carolin Starring: Channing Tatum, Salma Hayek, Ayub Khan-Din Synopsis: Mike takes to the stage again, following a business deal that went bust, leaving him broke and taking bartender gigs in Florida. Mike heads to London with a wealthy socialite who lures him with an offer he can’t refuse. Where to watch: Streaming on  Prime Video

Admittedly,  Magic Mike’s Last Dance may not quite reach the electrifying heights of the first two films, but it’s still worth a watch. If you’re after a film you watch with friends while drinking wine and picking at a cheese board, this is the one.

May December

Directed by:  Todd Haynes Written by:  Alex Mechanik and Samy Burch Starring:  Natalie Portman, Julianne Moore, Charles Melton Synopsis:  Twenty years after their notorious tabloid romance gripped the nation, a married couple buckles under pressure when an actress arrives to do research for a film about their past. Where to watch: Streaming on Prime Video

Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore are firing on all cylinders in this film that’s so high-camp it’s close to diabolical. Where the topic is serious and often deeply unsettling, Haynes keeps the crowd hooked with expertly placed jokes, and the result is a multi-layered film that will be on your mind for days.

Meg 2: The Trench

Directed by: Ben Wheatley Written by: Jon Hoeber, Erich Hoeber, Dean Georgaris Starring: Jason Statham, Jing Wu, Shuya Sophia Cai Synopsis: A research team encounters multiple threats while exploring the depths of the ocean, including a malevolent mining operation. Where to watch: Streaming on Netflix

Meg 2: The Trench may not be the kind of film you’ll see nominated for Academy Awards, but what can I say? If you get it, you get it, if you don’t, you don’t. No judgement here either way!

No Hard Feelings

Directed by: Gene Stupnitsky Written by: Gene Stupnitsky and John Phillips Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Andrew Barth Feldman, Laura Benanti Synopsis: On the brink of losing her home, Maddie finds an intriguing job listing: helicopter parents looking for someone to bring their introverted 19-year-old son out of his shell before college. She has one summer to make him a man or die trying. Where to watch: Streaming on BINGE

Part teen sex comedy, part scammer story, and part heartfelt coming-of-age tale,  No Hard Feelings is a great time. Jennifer Lawrence delivers a laugh-out-loud comedic performance in a film that’s perfect for your next casual night in.

Oppenheimer

Directed by:  Christopher Nolan Written by:  Christopher Nolan, Kai Bird, Martin Sherwin Starring:  Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, Matt Damon Synopsis:  The story of American scientist, J. Robert Oppenheimer, and his role in the development of the atomic bomb. Where to watch: Streaming on Netflix

Part two of the Barbenheimer bonanza,  Oppenheimer picked up a whopping seven Oscars at the 2024 Academy Awards, and for good reason. The three-hour Best Picture winner is a technically stunning, gripping drama with Cillian Murphy’s haunted performance as its centrepiece. It’s Christopher Nolan and Cillian Murphy at their best, and the Academy awarded them both for their efforts in the Best Director and Best Actor categories, respectively.

Directed by:  Celine Song Written by:  Celine Song Starring:  Greta Lee, Teo Yoo, John Magaro Synopsis:  Nora and Hae Sung, two deeply connected childhood friends, are wrest apart after Nora’s family emigrates from South Korea. Two decades later, they are reunited in New York for one fateful week as they confront notions of destiny, love, and the choices that make a life, in this heartrending modern romance. Where to watch: Streaming on  Prime Video

A minimalistic, slow burn romance that’s simultaneously gorgeous and stunning,  Past Lives is a stellar debut from writer/director Celine Song. After getting rave reviews out of the 2023 Sundance Film Festival, momentum for this meticulously curated romantic drama remained steady over the year, and in the end, Past Lives picked up Oscar nominations for Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay.

Related:   ‘Past Lives’: Inyeon Is a Korean Philosophy of How Relationships Form Over Many Lifetimes

Poor Things

Directed by:  Yorgos Lanthimos Written by:  Tony McNamara, Alasdair Gray Starring:  Emma Stone, Mark Ruffalo, Willem Dafoe Synopsis:  The incredible tale about the fantastical evolution of Bella Baxter, a young woman brought back to life by the brilliant and unorthodox scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter. Where to watch: Streaming on Disney+

A dazzling mix of laugh-loud-loud moments, gasp-inducing body horror, and poignant drama,  Poor Things truly has it all. When you add the impeccable costumes and otherworldly production design into the mix, it’s an unmissable masterpiece that deserves to be seen.

Directed by: Sofia Coppola Written by: Sofia Coppola, based on the book  Elvis and Me by Priscilla Presley and Sandra Harmon Starring:  Cailee Spaeny, Jacob Elordi, Ari Cohen Synopsis: When teenage Priscilla Beaulieu meets Elvis Presley, the man who is already a meteoric rock-and-roll superstar becomes someone entirely unexpected in private moments: a thrilling crush, an ally in loneliness, a vulnerable best friend. Where to watch: Streaming on Stan

Sofia Coppola steps back into her zone with  Priscilla , showing us the flipside to Baz Luhrmann’s frenzied  Elvis extravaganza.  Priscilla  is a small, quiet, melancholic look at Priscilla’s life, with the pitch-perfect combination of glamour and loneliness we’ve come to expect from a Coppola film.

Related: ‘Priscilla’: A Bold Feminist Retelling of Elvis’ Dark Fairytale Marriage

Directed by:  Tina Satter Written by:  Tina Satter Starring:  Sydney Sweeney, Josh Hamilton, Marchánt Davis Synopsis:  A former American intelligence specialist was given the longest sentence for the unauthorised release of government information to the media about Russian interference in the 2016 United States elections via an email operation. Where to watch:  Streaming on  BINGE

Reality  is a tense, uncomfortable, claustrophobic film driven by Sydney Sweeney’s powerhouse performance. At just 83 minutes, the film hooks you with its mix of mundane, everyday normalcies with blood-curdling, anxiety-inducing danger, and it doesn’t let you off until the end.

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

Directed by:  Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, Justin K. Thompson Written by:  Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, Dave Callaham Starring:  Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Brian Tyree Henry Synopsis:  Miles Morales catapults across the Multiverse, where he encounters a team of Spider-People charged with protecting its very existence. When the heroes clash on how to handle a new threat, Miles must redefine what it means to be a hero. Where to watch:  Streaming on  Prime Video

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse  isn’t just visually dazzling, it’s also one of the rare sequels that truly lives up to its predecessor. With a script that’s grounded in genuine emotion and enough laughs to balance it out, you can expect to see  Across the Spider-Verse  reach beyond the Best Animated Feature category at the 2024 Academy Awards.

Directed by:  Danny Philippou, Michael Philippou Written by:  Danny Philippou, Bill Hinzman, Daley Pearson Starring:  Sophie Wilde, Joe Bird, Miranda Otto Synopsis:  When a group of friends discover how to conjure spirits using an embalmed hand, they become hooked on the new thrill, until one of them goes too far and unleashes terrifying supernatural forces. Where to watch:  Streaming on  Netflix

The debut feature from Adelaide-born twin brothers Danny and Michael Philippou — aka YouTube’s RackaRacka —  Talk to Me  was met with instant buzz after its January premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, and things haven’t slowed down since then.

The film was picked up by indie distributor A24, and soon  dethroned  Hereditary  as A24’s top grossing horror film at the North American box office. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the  sequel is already in the works .

Related:   “We Can Text Ari Aster!”: Danny and Michael Philippou on ‘Talk to Me’ Success

Related:   “Never Stop Making Stuff”: Danny and Michael Philippou’s Advice for Young Creatives

Theater Camp

Directed by:  Molly Gordon, Nick Lieberman Written by:  Noah Galvin, Molly Gordon, Nick Lieberman Starring:  Ben Platt, Molly Gordon, Noah Galvin Synopsis:  The eccentric staff of a rundown theatre camp in upstate New York must band together with the beloved founder’s bro-y son to keep the camp afloat. Where to watch:  Streaming on  Disney+

A self-aware, self-deprecating comedy that delivers laughs throughout,  Theater Camp  manages to walk the line of satire without crossing into nastiness. There’s humour, heart, and although it’s sure to become a favourite for those who’ve lived in the world, it’s a film that anyone can enjoy.

Turtles All the Way Down

Directed by: Hannah Marks Written by: Screenplay by Elizabeth Berger and Isaac Aptaker, based on the novel by John Green Starring: Isabela Merced, Cree, Judy Reyes Synopsis: A teenager with OCD tries to solve a mystery surrounding a fugitive billionaire. Where to watch: Streaming on BINGE

Adapted from John Green’s novel, Hannah Marks does a great job bringing the chaotic, winding, intrusive thought spirals of Aza’s OCD to life on screen, making this a YA adaptation that reaches beyond its target demographic.

You Hurt My Feelings

Directed by:  Nicole Holofcener Written by:  Nicole Holofcener Starring:  Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Tobias Menzies, Michaela Watkins Synopsis:  A novelist’s longstanding marriage is suddenly upended when she overhears her husband giving his honest reaction to her latest book. Where to watch: Streaming on Prime Video

Smart, entertaining, and acerbic,  You Hurt My Feelings  is an honest and relatable look at the well-intentioned white lies we all tell to make life easier. Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ performance is outstanding and will effortlessly hold your attention from start to finish.

Want more entertainment news?  Click here to read all our content , and check out the stories below :

• From ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ to ‘CODA’: The Best Movies to Stream on Apple
• The Year to Come: The Most Anticipated Movies of 2024
• 31 Must-See Documentaries on Netflix Right Now
• ‘Priscilla’: A Bold Feminist Retelling of Elvis’ Dark Fairytale Marriage
• ‘Oppenheimer’ and ‘Succession’ Win Big At the 2024 Critics Choice Awards
• ‘Past Lives’: Inyeon Is a Korean Philosophy of How Relationships Form Over Many Lifetimes
• ‘American Fiction’: Scathing and Accurate Portrayal of the Obstacles Black Writers Face in Publishing
• Cinephiles, the Race Is on! Here’s Where to Watch Oscar Nominees in Australia
• Let’s Go Girls! The Best Chick Flicks of All Time, and Where to Stream Them

Read more stories from  The Latch  and subscribe to our  email newsletter .

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8 New Movies Our Critics Are Talking About This Week

Whether you’re a casual moviegoer or an avid buff, our reviewers think these films are worth knowing about.

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By The New York Times

In space, no one can hear you groan.

‘Alien: Romulus’

The newest entry in this sci-fi horror franchise, this one directed by Fede Álvarez, follows a mistreated contract worker (Cailee Spaeny) and her glitchy android friend (David Jonsson) as they face off against the eponymous extraterrestrials.

From our review:

“Alien: Romulus” is a nuts-and-bolts action-adventure horror story with boos and splatter. It doesn’t have much on its mind but it has some good jump scares along with a disappointingly bland heroine, a sympathetic android and the usual collection of disposable characters who are unduly killed by slavering, rampaging extraterrestrials. … Álvarez spends a lot of time showing off his sets, which are more engaging than the writing.

In theaters. Read the full review .

‘The Purge’ meets the Powerball.

A near-future Los Angeles holds a Grand Lottery: the winner then must fight off losers who can legally kill them to get the cash. An unsuspecting transplant (Awkwafina) gets the golden ticket and must turn to a bodyguard (John Cena) for protection.

The concept provides a convenient vehicle for the characters to learn helpful lessons about human decency and trust. But “Jackpot!” does not quite stick the landing. Directed by Paul Feig from a screenplay by Rob Yescombe, the movie sustains an admirably zany energy, though its jokes often feel underwritten. (“You can’t just steal people’s panic rooms. What are you, Jodie Foster?”) Worse, though, it seems intent on mixing its metaphors.

Watch on Amazon Prime Video . Read the full review .

Bowdlerized but still bold.

‘caligula: the ultimate cut’.

Thomas Negovan re-edited this (ahem) colorful cult classic originally released in 1980. It follows the rise and fall of the Roman emperor and stars Malcolm McDowell and Helen Mirren.

Even more crucial is the belief that a masterpiece lurks within the mangled original release. Now attempting to prove that theory is “Caligula: The Ultimate Cut,” the latest iteration of a film that has gone through an unfathomable number of edits over the decades. This is the rare re-edited version of a movie that features less graphic sex and violence than the original. What kind of world are we living in?

Through a child’s eyes, darkly.

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The movies that came out on top this year, and those you probably should avoid

The verdict is in from Zak Hepburn — regular film critic for ABC News Breakfast — on the best and worst films of 2021.

In another year where going to the cinemas was hampered by the pandemic, there were still some great films to catch — and some not so good ones. 

Let's rip the bandaid off first with the worst films of the year.

Worst films of the year

Coming in at number one in the category of worst films in 2021….

The Misfits

What it's about: Renowned criminal Richard Pace is recruited by a group of unconventional thieves and finds himself caught up in an elaborate gold heist with far-reaching consequences.

Who's starring in it: Pierce Brosnan, Tim Roth, Nick Cannon

Zak Hepburn's verdict: It's the worst film of the year according to Zak Hepburn, who brutally took it down by saying he would walk out on it — even if he was on a plane at 30,000 feet.

"I stand by this," said Hepburn.

"It only lasted a week in cinemas so I would like to think that was my community service for the year.

"Avoid at all costs."

Where to see it if you're brave enough: Available to purchase on iTunes.

Dishonourable mention

Dear evan hansen.

What it's about: Loosely based on a true story, Dear Evan Hansen is about an anxious and lonely high school student – Evan Hansen – who begins writing letters to himself. When one of those letters falls into the hands of a grieving couple whose son took his own life, Evan embarks on a journey of self-discovery.

Who it's starring: Ben Platt (Pitch Perfect), Amy Adams, Julianne Moore, Kaitlyn Dever, Amandla Stenberg.

Zak Hepburn's verdict: "It is based on the very, very, very popular Broadway musical of the same name. And it is woefully miscast, woefully misdirected and misjudged," Hepburn said.

"I think that the worst part of this is the actual casting of 27-year-old Ben Platt, who was very successful in the stage version of the show.

"He's cast as a teenager in this film and I'm not buying that foundation on him to make him look a little bit younger."

"It's almost like an episode of Undercover Boss. So, this is a dud note in my opinion."

Where to see it if you're brave enough: In cinemas now.

Best films of the year

Number 3: coda.

What it's about: Ruby is the only hearing member of a deaf family in Massachusetts. In joining her high school's choir club, Ruby finds herself drawn to both her duet partner and her latent passion for singing.

Who it's starring: Emilia Jones, Eugenio Derbez, Marlee Matlin

Zak Hepburn's verdict: "Incredible cast," he said.

"Emilia Jones was in the central role.

"And a really empathetic and fantastic family story.

"I'm actually tipping this is going to be a dark horse in the Oscars race, that you'll see a lot of nominations for this film."

"It's also got a great use of the Joni Mitchell song, Both Sides."

Where to see it: Apple TV+

Number 2: Dune

What it's about: Paul Atreides is a brilliant and gifted young man who must travel to the most dangerous planet in the universe to ensure the future of his family and his people, where only those who can conquer their own fear will survive.

Who is it starring: Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac, Zendaya, Jason Momoa

Zak Hepburn's verdict: Not everyone liked this film, but Hepburn has given it a solid thumbs up. He's referred to it as epic.

"I absolutely adored this experience," he said.

"This really reminded me of the power of a big-screen experience.

"What I appreciated about this film is that it opens up a whole new world and you have to get in on the ground and follow it.

"It's a really impressive story based on the very popular sci-fi novel from the 1960s. Many claimed it to be unfilmable.

"The director got an incredible cast together."

Where to see it:  In cinemas now.

Number 1: Pig

What it's about: A truffle hunter who lives alone in the Oregon wilderness returns to Portland to find the person who stole his beloved pig.

Who is starring in it: Nicholas Cage, Alex Wolff, Adam Arkin

Zak Hepburn's verdict: "What on paper looks like a John Wickian revenge film is tender about grief and healing and about how we connect with each other through food.

"This surprised me and that's always what I'm looking for when I look at films. Something to surprise me and something that's different.

"This one, I'm tipping Nicholas Cage to get an Oscar."

"A minimal piece, I really encourage viewers to give this film a shot."

Where to see it: Available to rent or buy online

Streamers Choice

The beatles: get back.

Zak Hepburn's verdict:

"Eight hours of pure Beatles joy.

"I absolutely adored this.

"A fantastic look at the creative process and an incredible moment in the first episode where Paul McCartney is tingling away on the guitar while George and Ringo watch him and at 25 seconds he has the chord structure of Get Back.

"The archival footage is great as well and Peter Jackson did a great job."

Where to see it: Disney+

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• Arts, Culture and Entertainment
• Film (Arts and Entertainment)

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Home » Entertainment

20 of the best Netflix movies you can stream in Australia

All the best new releases and classics available on Netflix Australia.

Netflix Original movies don’t have the same reputation for quality as  the zeitgeist-dominating TV series  the service churns out. Somewhat justifiably. But it’s not all bad news. For every 10 why-does-this-exist Adam Sandler comedies there’s an overlooked gem – even serious Oscar contenders in recent years.

Here’s our ever-expanding list of the best Netflix movies streaming.

Fear Street Trilogy

• Release: 2021
• Genre:  Horror
• Runtime: 1h 47m - 1h 54m

Ok, we’re kinda cheating with this one since it’s technically three movies, but hey, this is our list and we’ll do what we want.

Based on the Fear Street novels written by Goosebumps creator R. L. Stine, Netflix’s Fear Street Trilogy comprises three parts, each set during a different period: 1994, 1978, and 1666. All three films follow a group of teenagers living in the fictional town of Shadyside, which has been terrorised for centuries by an ancient, evil force responsible for a series of horrific murders. The cast includes

The trilogy’s total runtime is about five and a half hours, so save this one for a rainy weekend and get bingeing.

• Genre:  Sci-fi horror
• Runtime: 1h 41m

It takes a damn compelling performance and a gripping storyline to make a film that takes place almost entirely within what is essentially a coffin-sized space enjoyable, but thankfully,  Oxygen  has both.

This critically-acclaimed French flick stars Mélanie Laurent as a young woman who wakes up to find herself trapped in an airtight medical cryogenic chamber with no recollection of how she got there. She discovers that the unit’s oxygen levels are depleting rapidly, and the chamber’s artificial intelligence (named MILO) refuses to release her without an administrator code.

Working together with MILO, she must piece together her memory and figure out a way to escape before completely running out of air.

Stream for free tonight with these trials

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• Release: 2020
• Genre:  Thriller
• Runtime: 1h 29m

Given how little fanfare to which it launched on Netflix, we wouldn’t be surprised if  Run  hasn’t even come across your recommendations yet, but trust us when we say you’re going to want to watch it.

Run  stars Sarah Paulson as the dangerously overprotective mother of 17-year-old Chloe, played by newcomer Kiera Allen. Born prematurely and facing multiple health issues as a result, Chloe has spent her entire life isolated from the world, homeschooled and cared for by her mother. Soon, her yearning for freedom collides with a series of incidents that lead Chloe to believe her mother is hiding something – something  big .

The Mitchells vs. The Machines

• Genre:  Kids and Family
• Runtime: 1h 54m

From the producers of the incredible Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse comes this utterly delightful and quirky feel-good flick that just happens to be the best animation Netflix has created so far.

The Mitchells vs the Machines follows the dysfunctional Mitchell family as they attempt to save humanity from the robot apocalypse – all while on a road trip. It also has a truly stellar voice cast, including Abbi Jacobson, Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph, Olivia Coleman, Eric Andre, Fred Armisen, Conan O’Brien and even beloved Insta-famous dog Doug the Pug. What more could you want?

The White Tiger

• Genre:  Crime drama
• Runtime: 2h 5m

Based on Aravind Adiga’s Booker Prize-winning 2008 novel of the same name,  The White Tiger  is darkly funny, beautifully shot and features brilliant performances from Ardash Gourav (in his first leading role), Priyanka Chopra and Rajkummar Rao.

It follows the life of entrepreneur Balram Halwai (Gourav), from his days as an academically gifted but poor child living in a rural Indian village, determined to escape servitude and become successful. As a young man, Balram begins working for a wealthy family as a personal driver. As he grows closer to his wealthy employers (Chopra and Rao), it only becomes clearer how corrupt India’s politicians are, and how stark the contrast between the lower and upper classes is.

• Genre: Historical drama
• Runtime: 1h 52m

Inspired by the true story of the 1939 Sutton Hoo excavation, which revealed a treasure trove of priceless Anglo-Saxon artefacts,  The Dig  stars Ralph Fiennes as the archaeologist who history forgot and Carey Mulligan as Edith Pretty, the wealthy, widowed landowner.

Set during the uncertainty and fear of pre-WWII England,  The Dig  explores the discovery of a ship from the Dark Ages and the fight over who really owns the historic find. Sure, it’s no thriller or raucous comedy, but it’s brilliantly acted, the story achingly poignant and the cinematography flawless.

Pieces of a Woman

• Genre: Drama
• Runtime: 2h 6m

Trigger Warning: Child loss and grief.

Starring  The Crown  alumna Vanessa Kirby and  actual cannibal  Shia Labeouf as a couple expecting their first child,  Pieces of a Woman follows the tragic aftermath of a home birth gone wrong. When their baby suffers a cardiac arrest and cannot be revived, the pair enter a deep depression, with the loss taking a toll on their mental health, their relationship, and outside pressure to file a lawsuit against their midwife.

It’s powerful, enthralling and utterly heartwrenching, with Kirby’s performance attracting critical acclaim and even scoring the Volpi Cup for Best Actress at the Venice International Film Festival. Keep an eye out for this one come Oscar season.

Call Me By Your Name

• Release: 2017
• Runtime: 2h 12m

If you haven’t already seen this 2017 coming-of-age Best Picture nominee, you’re missing out on one of the best performances of the last five years. In his breakout role, Timothée Chalamet makes you forget you’re even watching a movie – he’s  that  good.

Call Me By Your Name  is set in the summer of 1983 in rural Northern Italy, where 17-year-old Elio (Chalamet) lives with his mother and archeology professor father. When 24-year-old graduate student Oliver is invited to stay with the family to assist with the professor’s academic paperwork, Elio finds himself drawn to him, and it quickly becomes clear the feeling is mutual.

Over the Moon

• Genre: Family and Kids
• Runtime: 1h 40m

One of Netflix’s first forays into the world of animation, Over the Moon is a visually stunning musical adventure starring the voices of newcomer Cathy Ang, Hamilton‘s Philippa Soo, the hilarious Ken Jeong and Margaret Cho, and the always amazing Sandra Oh.

The film follows a young girl named Fei Fei who, having recently lost her mother to illness, learns of the legend of the moon goddess Chang’e. Determined to prove the goddess’ existence, Fei Fei sets out to build a rocket to the moon, taking her beloved pet rabbit Bungee and (unknowingly) her soon-to-be step-brother along on what is destined to be an adventure like no other.

Marriage Story

• Release: 2019
• Runtime: 2h 16m

It’s not often that we see a movie about the breakup and not the usual rom-com formula of the meet-cute, conflict and almost immediate resolution that leads to happily ever after. 2019 Oscar nominee Marriage Story is about what happens after happily ever after.

Starring Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver as parents grappling over the unexpected consequences of their increasingly messy divorce and custody battle, Marriage Story is both heartbreaking and incredibly heartwarming at once.

I’m Thinking of Ending Things

• Runtime: 2h 14m

One of the weirdest, most enigmatic movies to ever hit Netflix,  I’m Thinking of Ending Things  is a psychological horror unlike any you’ve seen before. Written and directed by Charlie Kaufman (the creative genius behind  Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind  and  Being John Malkovich ), it stars Jessie Buckley, Jesse Plemons, David Thewlis and Toni Collette in her creepiest role yet (yes, even creepier than  Hereditary ).

It’s a hard movie to describe. You can check out the trailer below, but I’m Thinking of Ending Things is one of those flicks that going in blind to is actually an advantage. Just grab yourself a glass of wine, hit the couch and settle in for a mind-bending ride.

• Genre: Historical Drama
• Runtime: 2h 20m

Acclaimed Aussie writer-director David Michôd ( Animal Kingdom ,  The Rover ) continues to prove he’s not a one-genre pony with  The King . His second collaboration with Netflix after the so-so War Machine, this is a much different look at war. Part historical drama, part Shakespearian recreation, The King ends up boasting the kind of political intrigue, fascinating characters and bloody violence of  Game of Thrones in its heyday seasons. A big-name cast, including Michôd alumni (with Batman's Robert Pattinson stealing the show), ensures the dialogue-heavy moments are engaging, while there’s a brutal and believable weight to the heavily armoured action sequence).

• Runtime: 2h 1m

Parasite  director Bong Joon-ho delivers a confronting examination of GM foods and the mass-market meat industry via the medium of a giant CGI “super pig”.

Okja , the uber swine, has been raised in the idyllic Korean wilds by Mija, a young farmhand. But when the creators of the super pig, the comic-book-evil Mirando corporation, take Okja back to New York for its always-intended propaganda and meat purposes, Mija sets off to the rescue. Tilda Swinton is compellingly off-putting as the head of Mirando, and the CGI pig is just cute enough to give the relationship with Mija real heart. E.T. for vegetarians.

Annihilation

• Release: 2018
• Genre: Sci-fi
• Runtime: 1h 55m

Natalie Portman’s Lena leads a group of scientists and soldiers into “the Shimmer”, an eerie expanding zone radiating out from the site of a meteorite crash. Within the Shimmer, plants and animals begin mutating, seemingly at a DNA level, taking on alien characteristics.

Netflix has an abundance of high-concept weird sci-fi Originals, but most are only interesting conceptually – reading the blurb is more satisfying than watching them. Annihilation is the exception, with enough craftsmanship that it actually manages to be a compelling movie.

• Genre: Horror
• Runtime: 1h 43m

The first Australian Netflix Original movie, Cargo is based on directors Yolanda Ramke and Ben Howling’s 2013 Tropfest short film of the same name. A melancholy spin on the zombie genre, Cargo layers on the gloom by showcasing Australia’s desolate landscape and delaying the onset of the infection.

Andy (Martin Freeman) has been bitten and has only 48 hours before he turns into a snarling beast. He needs to use that time to find somewhere safe for the titular bundle: Rosie, his adorable baby. Creepy and upsetting rather than outright terrifying.

• Runtime: 2h 15m

Mudbound is a tale of two families – one white, one black – as they eke out an existence alongside each other on a muddy farm in segregated 1940s Mississippi is predictably tragic.

When Ronsel, the oldest son of the farmhands family returns from the war in Europe, a theatre where he was hailed a hero and treated as a liberator, he’s confronted once again by the systemic racism deeply embedded into the American heartland. The nagging sense that  this isn’t going to end well  does little to soften the blow when it finally comes. Confronting and powerful, if not exactly a fun night out.

• Genre: Biographical drama

Sedately paced and artfully framed,  Roma  pulls back the curtain on the intimate moments in the life of Cleo, a live-in housemaid employed by an affluent family in 1970’s Mexico City. As her tale unfolds, the line between being a part of the family and being employed by it are blurred, allowing director Alfonso Cuarón to ruminate on class division and the tenuous connections that keep people together.

This is Cuarón’s most personal work, but he still manages to deploy his best cinematic tricks. Though less bombastic than those seen in Children of Men, a final act tracking shot goes from carefree to unbearably tense to beautifully cathartic with barely a pause in between. It’s masterful stuff. But don’t just take our word for it: Cuarón won Academy Awards for both best director and best cinematography, and Roma itself took out the gong for best foreign-language film.

The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected)

• Genre: Comedy-drama

A slightly less quirky but equally heartfelt spin on  The Royal Tenenbaums , The Meyerowitz Stories  focuses on three neurotic siblings and the source of their neurosis – dad, a once-promising but ultimately frustrated sculptor played with maddening self-absorption by a great Dustin Hoffman. Ben Stiller utilises his straight-guy schtick as Matthew, the only financially successful member of the Meyerowitz brood, a wonderful foil for Elizabeth Marvel’s Jean, arguably the most damaged of the trio. But – and I can’t believe I’m writing this – it’s Adam Sandler’s Danny that steals the show.

Yes, he screams at the camera for comedic effect, but there are genuinely touching moments as he struggles to find the acceptance that has eluded him for decades. You’ll grow fond of these characters as they slowly come together to repair decades of distance. 

Beasts of No Nation

• Release: 2015
• Runtime: 2h 17m

Netflix’s first-ever film, Cary Joji Fukunaga’s  Beasts of No Nation  set a lofty award-bait standard that few Netflix Originals have since aspired. Set in a nameless war-torn nation, it explores in confronting fashion the horrors of African child soldiers.

When young boy Agu’s village is decimated and his family murdered by an invading army, he flees into the exploitative arms of a guerrilla insurgency. Newcomer Abraham Attah is fantastic as Agu, sympathetic in his struggle to cling onto a semblance of innocence from the corrupting influence of Idris Elba’s Commandant. Deeply disturbing, but powerful.

Fyre: The Greatest Festival That Never Happened

• Genre: Documentary
• Runtime: 1h 37m

Schadenfreude levels peaked in mid-2017 when a “luxury music festival” for American trust-fund brats descended into Lord of the Flies for the Twitter age.

Everything went wrong. The advertised opulent condos ended up being disaster relief tents, bands didn’t show up, the festival wasn’t even on the promised island, and, most infamously, in the photo that shook the world, the “gourmet menu” ended up being Kraft Singles on a slice of bread.

For some reason, Ja Rule was involved in it all.

Fyre  is not the most important documentary on Netflix, but it is the most entertaining – and yet it still provides a glimpse into what happens when capitalism at its most predatory meets ego at its most incompetent.

Hoping to stream these movies in glorious 4K? You might want to consider upgrading your NBN speed first. These are the most popular NBN 100 plans in Australia that will allow you to stream 4K Netflix (and then some.)

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100 Best Movies on Netflix Ranked by Tomatometer (August 2024)

In our world of massive entertainment options, who’s got time to waste on the below-average? You’ve got a subscription, you’re ready for a marathon, and you want only the best movies no Netflix to watch. With thousands of choices on the platform, both original and acquired, we’ve found the 100 top Netflix movies with the highest Tomatometer scores! Time to get comfy on the couch!

New top movies this month: The Spectacular Now , Star Trek: Beyond

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Jackpot! review: "John Cena is a joy to watch but his latest isn't quite on the money"

GamesRadar+ Verdict

John Cena’s a joy to watch, but Paul Feig’s latest isn’t quite on the money.

Why you can trust GamesRadar+ Our experts review games, movies and tech over countless hours, so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about our reviews policy.

From Bridesmaids to Spy to 2016’s Ghostbusters , Paul Feig’s movies always promise a good dose of fun and to not take themselves too seriously. His latest, Jackpot!, is no exception, offering over-the-top action and one-liners galore, all with tongue firmly planted in cheek. 

In the film’s 2030 LA, things look much as they do today - except that it’s legal to murder the winner of the city’s Grand Lottery in order to steal their prize before sundown. Played by Awkwafina (Jumanji: The Next Level , Quiz Lady), aspiring actor Katie Kim arrives in town wanting to turn her life around, and has no idea what she’s in for when she finds herself in possession of the winning ticket.

Feig takes a while to fulfil the promise of chaotic action, but things accelerate when John Cena’s Noel arrives, crashing through the ceiling. Like a lethal golden retriever modelling himself on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Noel vows to protect Katie in return for 10% of her prize money. And off the duo head, on the run, and with Cena beating up everyone in sight - in quite unexpected ways.

He’s the film’s highlight, while Awkwafina is as likeable as ever. But Jackpot! falters when it tries to delve too deeply into its characters - by the second half, the energy is flagging. A brief cameo from Machine Gun Kelly doesn’t help, nor does giving Simu Liu (reteaming with Awkwafina after Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings ) little to do. Although he does nail the ‘Bond villain’ look, no question

Jackpot! streams on Prime Video from August 15. 

Check out our guide to other upcoming movies you need to get on your radar.

I'm the News Editor of Total Film magazine, overseeing the Teasers section of every issue where you can read exclusive previews of the biggest films. I was previously Staff Writer, then Contributing Editor at Film Stories, where I covered everything from blockbuster movies to independent British films - although admittedly big sci-fi and fantasy movies are my favourites! I'm always waiting for a new film by my favourite directors Guillermo del Toro and Tim Burton, and am enthusiastic about all things dark and gothic. 

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Breakdancing makes its olympics debut, leaving viewers with mixed reactions, viral memes.

Sunny Choi and Logan Edra represented Team USA at Friday's competition, however, Team Australia's Rachael Gunn stole the show online.

By Carly Thomas

Carly Thomas

Associate Editor

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Breaking (or breakdancing) made its debut at the 2024 Paris Olympics , and it’s caused quite a stir across social media.

The competition kicked off on Friday with an introduction from the Olympics icon himself, Snoop Dogg . Then B-girls from around the world were the first to take to the international dance floor to show off their moves, as the men’s competition will be held on Saturday, Aug. 10.

With breaking making its Olympic debut, of course Snoop Dogg had to make an appearance. 🐶 #ParisOlympics | 📺 E! and Peacock pic.twitter.com/f9VRsFNM4r — NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) August 9, 2024

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Ahead of the first day of competition, actor-rapper Ice-T was among those who took to social media to share their excitement. “Olympic BreakDancing starts Today! 10am Eastern Time… This is gonna blow the minds of people that haven’t seen breaking in a while… INCREDIBLE All Respect to HIPHOP,” he wrote .

Team USA is being represented by Victor Montalvo, Sunny Choi, Logan Edra and Jeffrey Louis. But it was Gunn who stole the show online, notably for her performance against Edra, Lithuania’s Dominika Banevič and France’s Sya Dembélé.

Videos of some of her dance moves quickly made their way around social media. Sports commentator Pat McAfee even got in on the conversation, saying , “We’ve all been kind of intrigued by this Breaking being an Olympic sport because we believe this potentially sets a precedent for other artistic forms.” He added after seeing a video of Gunn, “Maybe my new favorite sport. I did not know there was going to be a fish flop as one of the moves, fish on the boat flop. … Congrats on being an Olympian.”

Comedian-actor Roy Wood Jr. also pointed out on X, formerly Twitter, that some videos of Gunn have been removed from the platform (though the reason wasn’t immediately clear). “That breakdancer called Twitter on y’all,” he wrote .

“In breaking, you just never know what’s going to happen on the day. You always have to be prepared. I knew the stakes were higher for the Olympic qualifiers, and prepared 10 different sets and made sure I included all the elements and moves in the rounds,” she said. “I really, really, wanted it, and so I fought really hard throughout the competition and just put everything out there.”

Ultimately, Japan’s Ami Yuasa took home the gold medal for the B-girls competition, while Banevič scored silver and China’s Liu Qingyi earned bronze.

Raygun’s Kangaroo move was so dominant, it felt like the competition was over! Give her the #breakdancing gold 🥇. While some say #breakdancing shouldn’t be in the Olympics, it’s clearly impressive and fun #BreakingForGold #Olympics snoopdogg pic.twitter.com/DPjt0cOBWS — Bites Of Net (@BitesOfNet) August 9, 2024

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Australian breakdancer Raygun responds to critics: ‘I was never going to beat these girls’

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Raygun has broken her silence.

Not long after her breakdancing performances during the 2024 Paris Olympics were widely mocked across social media, the Australian breakdancer Rachael Gunn also known as “Raygun,” responded to the criticism.

During a news conference with ESPN on Saturday, Gunn said she wanted to bring a unique style of dance to the competition.

“What I wanted to do was come out here and do something new and different and creative — that’s my strength, my creativity,” said Gunn. “I was never going to beat these girls on what they do best, the dynamic and the power moves, so I wanted to move differently, be artistic and creative because how many chances do you get that in a lifetime to do that on an international stage.”

2024 Paris Olympics

‘Everyone loved it.’ American B-girls proud to be part of breaking’s Olympic debut

American B-girls didn’t advance to the medal round of the first Olympic breaking competition, but they were proud to see their art in the spotlight.

Aug. 9, 2024

Gunn’s three performances Friday went viral because of their simplicity, unusual moves, and because each received a 0 from the judges. While breaking is scored on creativity, personality, technique, diversity, musicality, and vocabulary, many took to social media to poke fun at Gunn’s routines.

“Just because your country CAN send a breakdancer to the Olympics doesn’t mean you SHOULD…This woman Raygun from Australia is the most embarrassing ... I ever seen,” one user wrote on X.

“ I kinda feel bad for RayGun , the Aussie #BreakingForGold — but that routine was hilariously ridiculous,” another wrote.

“ Australia just set breakdancing back 40 years ,” another user said.

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Australia’s chief de mission, Anna Meares, defended Gunn during a news conference on Saturday expressing how disheartened she is about the online reaction.

“I love Rachael … I think that what has occurred on social media with trolls and keyboard warriors, and taking those comments and giving them airtime, has been really disappointing,” Meares said.

“Raygun is an absolutely loved member of this Olympic team … She has represented the Olympic team, the Olympic spirit with great enthusiasm. And I absolutely love her courage. I love her character, and I feel very disappointed for her, that she has come under the attack that she has.”

Gunn also fired back at critics of her green-and-yellow Australia team tracksuit with matching cap, posting on Instagram,”Looking forward to the same level of scrutiny on what the b-boys wear tomorrow.”

For Olympic newbie sports like breaking, there’s a lot more at stake than medals

Breaking, the newest Olympic sport, is trying to breakthrough on the biggest of stages. But will it satisfy the IOC’s desire for TV ratings and younger audiences?

During the news conference Saturday, Meares said the critiques against Gunn aren’t new and are part of a history of misogyny toward women in male-dominated sports experience. In 2008, she said she found Gunn in a room by herself crying.

“It took great courage for her to continue on and fight for her opportunity to participate in a sport that she loved,” Meares said. “That got her to winning the Olympic qualifying event to be here in Paris … She is the best breakdancer female that we have for Australia. “

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Alien: Romulus

While scavenging the deep ends of a derelict space station, a group of young space colonists come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe. While scavenging the deep ends of a derelict space station, a group of young space colonists come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe. While scavenging the deep ends of a derelict space station, a group of young space colonists come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe.

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• Goofs When the characters first enter the space station, the artificial gravity briefly turns on and then off again. Shortly thereafter, they enter a room where several objects are hovering in mid-air. If the objects had momentum immediately after the gravity switched off they should be moving on a trajectory, and if not they should still be against the floor. Either way, they should not be unmoving several feet off the floor.

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