January/February Reviews

Book Reviews

The Season by Helen Garner

Having spent many a cold/night day on the sideline watching junior Soccer as my nephew (and niece) grew up, this book really resonated with me. The Season is more about watching young boys grow into men, and spending time with her youngest grandson against the backdrop of a footy season.

It is a mix of memoir, mostly about her and her family, the footy training and games, her love of the game, and about life itself. It has drama, humour, and everything in between. I just loved reading this book.

I love Helen's power of observation and her sharp construct. She can describe a situation with so many layers so succinctly and yet without being too flowery. Utter brilliance. She can write about anything and have me hooked in. I also noticed her awareness of her age, and its fragility throughout, which was beautiful but sad. She truly is our greatest writer and always a favourite.

Lola in the Mirror by Trent Dalton

If Helen is our greatest writer, Dalton is our most beloved. Lola in the Mirror came out last year and I started it then. I found it tough going which usually does not bother me, but I was not in a great head space so I had to put it down for a bit. I finally picked it back up via a spoken word version that came through work. I got back into the story and having it read for me helped. 

This is a magnificent book, like all his work there is so much good and heart within. The good takes it time to rear its head, but when it does you feel it and the layers of this book are truly beautiful. Set in Brisbane it follows a young girl and her friends which are like family who are living rough. She is caught up in crime but gets an opportunity to get out of the cycle and find out who she really is. 

The story runs fast, goes in multiple directions, to say much more would be spoilers. Suffice to say, things don't turn as expected, it's a hell of a ride. I found some scenes made me sob, yes I had to pull over my car. And there is this one teeny but spectacular scene where the main character is running down the Brisbane Mall and runs past the author writing down everyone's love stories. Yep, that is Dalton inserting himself, Hitchcock style, into the story. That made me sob like a baby, I love his sentimentality and that was so very clever.

Go read Lola in the Mirror, you will thank me!

The Friday Afternoon Club: a family memoir by Griffin Dunne

This was an excellent memoir, as you would imagine it to be. Griffin is Dominick Dunne's son and the nephew of Joan Didion. Brought up in privilege, surrounded by all sorts of celebrities and famous people, Griffin wanted to be an actor. This memoir is of his family as much as it is about himself.

He moves through both sides of his family and goes back a few generations, this is something that normally bothers me, but this family, every single person has some kind of cool notoriety and he just tells enough about them and moves on to the next story. His childhood was not ideal, in terms of his parents splitting, illness and being left along a lot, and he dabbled in drugs and drink quite early. One of his best friends was Carrie Fisher, and he spent a lot of time with his aunt and uncle. 

He also goes into a fair bit of detail about his sister's murder and how the tragedy impacted on them all. This was a great insight. He is also - like everyone in his family - a really good writer. He takes you in with each story, and it was a cracking read. It ends in the early 80s as he is starting to work in films and his family are recovering from Dominique's death. So hopefully there will be more in future years.

The Uptown Local: joy, death, and Joan Didion by Cory Leadbeater

I was quite interested in reading this one. Cory was Joan's PA for the later part of her life. I thought it would be a good insight into how she works etc. It was not. I suspect he had signed some kind of document to say he wouldn't talk. It is an interesting read about someone from the lower class working and trying to fit into the upper class world that Didion inhabited. So sociologically it is fascinating. Also his father was in jail for blue collar crimes and that was an interesting twist. Joan and her apartment are certainly mentioned throughout the novel and her kindness and support of him, but there was no depth to the relationship or any intel into her work. Disappointing.

Didion and Babitz by Lili Anolik

This was another one that was incredibly disappointing. It is definitely NOT the book it says it is. It makes out there was a friendship between Joan Didion and Eve Babitz while it appears there were mere acquaintances. Lili has written a lot above Eve and has some kind of obsession with her. When she comes across some correspondence from Eve to Joan, I think she thought, 'here's another book'. It was a long stretch.

There was a lot of interesting information in the book about the circles both Joan and Eve ran in on both coasts of the US. And, yes, at times, there was an overlap, but it was minute. There was a lot about this book I really enjoyed, but there was far more that made me mad. She seemed to have some kind of vendetta against Joan and tried to make her out to be a really horrible person. No one is perfect, least of all Joan, but all of this was unfounded and cheap. Her writing was not that great either. I really don't know what to say about this book. It was a bestseller, I think, out of people's curiosity. The reviews seem to back my thoughts. It was just disappointing.

The Salt Path by Raynor Winn

This book keeps crossing my path and I finally got around to reading it. The Salt path is about a couple who have lost everything in a very odd court case. The following week the husband finds out he has a terminal illness. Ray, the wife, decides they should walk the South-West Coastal path in the UK. The book is about their journey and it is a ripper of a read. Geographical and sociological. I love pilgrimage stories and this is definitely worth reading. There is a movie being made about it starring Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs. Looks pretty good from the trailer.

Squat by John Safran

This is a terribly difficult book to review. It is Safran at his very best and his very worst. He hears about a possibly abandoned building in LA that Kanye owns and is curious. The book is essentially about his week squatting in the mansion and what he finds, and this week is peppered with stories and scenes from before and after that week. The stories tell why and how he ended up in the mansion and what happened after. 

There is a lot of amazing within this book but you get to a point where you start to really worry about Safran, his health, his mental health and his general wellbeing and safety. This worry - for me - took over my enjoyment of the book, and just made me want to know he is ok. After seeing him at the NWF, I think he is!

The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman

When the gang open up a decade old cold case, they are not prepared for what will happen. This is the third book from Osman with his Thursday Murder Club, it is the most thrilling to date and gives the gang a large case to look into. With each book Osman develops the characters and landscape more and more, adding layers and layers. There is romance, and humour, animals, and death. If you haven't experience this series, go and start at the beginning, the movie is coming out soon!

What I Ate In One Year (and related thoughts) by Stanley Tucci

This is a diary/memoir from Tucci about food (as always) and other things. It opens in Rome while he is filming Conclave. And throughout the year you can track his acting gigs and people he meets; he is quite the name dropper. He is a great storyteller and very amusing, I can always hear his voice when I read his books. This is a super easy read, but just don't read hungry!

Cher: the memoir, part one by Cher

This was a cracker of a read and takes you up to the 80s when she is about to do her first film. She is a great storyteller, and the book is dense and chock full of wonderful and interesting stories. She delves into her childhood and her relationship with her mother and other relatives. Then there is meeting Sonny and their rise to fame and the relationship demise. She writes with honesty and humour and has you hanging on to every word. It is a big book but everything within is wonderful, and I couldn't put it down. It takes you up to the beginning of her film career, so we still have more to come I am hoping. I cannot recommend this enough, it is a great read.

Beng Henry: the Fonz...and beyond by Henry Winkler

This was fun, Winkler delves into his life, before and after Happy Days. The people who helped him re-construct a fine career. He is very interesting and funny. He writes about his dyslexia that stopped him from doing a lot of things, and how he writes books for children now to help them with that. He writes with great fondness about The Fonz, and how that opened so many doors for him. But also shut some. He has many fun tales from Hollywood but he also comes across very down to earth. I loved this book.

Theory and Practice by Michelle de Krester

Michelle de Krester is such an interesting writer. She always makes me think with her philosophical ideas embedded into stories. Her latest novel, mostly set in academia, has been written using various non-fiction styles. This is information I found out after I had read it, and I feel it would have been a much easier read had I realised this early on. There is a thread about Virginia Woolf and The Waves, the main character is writing about her and the book. I loved this addition too. There is a lot going on in this book, but as always utterly fascinating and thought provoking. You can see why it won The Stella.

More Days at the Morisaki Books by Satoshi Yagisawa

This is the follow up to Days at the Morisaki Books which I really loved. This was good but nowhere near as good as the original. All the characters are back and the internal visuals are lovely. I enjoyed it, but it wasn't great.

Storytellers: questions, answers and the craft of journalism by Leigh Sales

Leigh chats with a whole range of journalists about storytelling. She interviews old and new, print, radio, tv, and online journalists. It is the Q and A format, and you get a lot of behind the scenes details of pulling together stories. Interviews include Benjamin Law, Annabel Crabb, Indira Naidoo, Stan Grant and many more.

This was a really interesting read, but I suspect not for everyone.

Film Reviews

A Complete Unknown

I went in warily, I am a huge Dylan fan. But I trusted James Mangold, as Walk the Line set a very high standard. I needn't have been wary, A Complete Unknown was utterly brilliant. Taking the beginning of his career, starting out right up to the Dylan goes Electric period, was a smart move, rather than trying to encompass everything. Chalamet was outstanding as Dylan, he nailed him without doing a caricature. He sounded amazing. As did all the other characters. the supporting cast was tremendous, particularly Monica Barbaro (Joan Baez) and Edward Norton (Pete Seeger). There were times you were so in the movie you forgot it was a movie. The set design, music, feel, acting, everything was so evocative, it could have been footage from the time. This is a must see.

Nosferatu

We saw this on the big screen, a rarity these days. It was visually stunning with sections of black and white throughout. Very melodramatic, gothic, and bloody, just like a good vampire movie should be. Staying fairly true to the story, this was a delight to suck in (pun intended). The acting was great, perfect for the film. See this on the big screen if you can.

Blue Velvet

With the death of the great Davd Lynch, we went on a bit of a rewatch and we started with Blue Velvet. Andrew hasn't watched it since his first viewing many decades ago, I have watched it regularly but not for a while. It still holds up beautifully and scarily. The acting is superb, fresh, and keeps you on the edge of your seat. The stand out for me is Isabella Rossellini, her Dorothy is crazed and wise and fearstruck, but also mesmerising, you cannot keep your eyes off of her. Hopper kills in the crazed lunatic role. MacLachlan and Dern are sweet and the heart of the film. The story, the cinematography, the music. To me, it is probably his best film. It is certainly a fave.

Mulholland Drive

Andrew had never seen this one, and I had seen it at the cinema and loved it. I didn't love it anywhere near as much on this rewatch, Andrew felt similarly. Visually it looks great, the acting is amazing, and it is the perfect Lynch mind-fuck. It messes around with time and characters, and what is real and what is imagined, and for the most part it is great and exciting. But by the end, you are so exhausted, and the ending it abrupt and weird, you kinds go what the fuck was all that. I think this is a film that depends on how you are feeling when you are watching.

The Straight Story

Another Andrew had not seen, but one I loved so much I saw it twice back in the day but it had been a while. It is a very different Lynch film so I was worried it might not hold up but it really did. The Straight Story is about an elderly man who drives a ride on mower (he is ill and no longer holds a licence) 100s of miles to visit his estranged brother who is dying. Richard Farnsworth (who was very unwell and died not longer after filming) is exceptional as the main character, Alvin Straight

The story is a road story, and about Alvin's tenacity and the people he meets along the way. It is one of those stories I call, nothing happens but everything happens. Which means it is not fast paced, and it is just about life; nothing happens. No big plot twists, what you see is what you get, it features all the little things that make up life; everything happens. I love stories like this. It shows the tenacity of people, the kindness of people, the realness of the world. This is probably the most accessible of Lynch's films, it has a lot of heart, and still is strange if you think about it.

Marcel: the shell with shoes on

This is the cutest animation film based on shorts that landed on youtube as created by Jenny Slate. Marcel - a shell with shoes on - is separated from their family and it is about their life and their journey back to their family. It is a sweet and melancholy movie, but utterly beautiful. This is a film for everyone, I cannot imagine anyone not loving this. 

Book Club: the next chapter

This is a light older woman's movie, but I love the actresses, and had fun resting the old brain while watching it. Not a lot of reading gets done, lol, but we all know bookclubs are more about the friends you discuss the books with. In this case the friends are Candice Bergen, Jane Fonda, Diane Keaton, and Mary Steenburgen, and they are taking their bookclub to Italy. What can go wrong? lol!

Finding Your Feet

Another light older woman's movie, but this time from the UK, so infinitely better.
Imelda Staunton is upper class Sandra, and finds out her husband is having an affair. She lands on her sister's doorstep, Bif, Celia Imrie, is very different to her sister and many clashes arise. But Sandra slowly opens up to Bif's way of life. This was not bad, not great, but always lovely to see these great actors do their thing. It also stars Joanna Lumley and Timothy Spall.

Television Reviews

Gavin and Stacey Finale

The finale we all were waiting for and it didn't disappoint. The show may be called Gavin and Stacey, but we all know it is really about Smithy and Nessa. In fact, I would say Gavin and Stacey are probably the least interesting characters on the show. Not to say they are not interesting, just the remaining cast are so superb.

The last Christmas special in 2019 left on a huge cliffhanger, with Nessa proposing to Smithy. This is a wonderful finale with huge twists and turns, no spoilers. It is funny how a little show gets in deep, I think the writing and the depth of the characters is phenomenal on this show. You also feel the love, you can tell these people genuinely love each other. It has drama, but even more humour. You are really invested. It is a comfort show for sure but also just pure joy.

Ruth Jones' Nessa has got to be one of the most fantastic characters ever written. Her stories, the deadpan delivery, the singing, the costume, utter genius. But then you could say that about almost every character in Gavin and Stacey. I feel sad there is no more, but the ending was perfect and there is no going back. Well there is, all those seasons are there to rewatch. And if you haven't watched this, go now, you are missing out!

Outnumbered Christmas Special

In its original run, this was so funny. Especially when you realise it is improvised, and the kids do most of the improvisation. The three children are/were hilarious. But in this special, there are quite grown-up and whilst funny, it doesn't hit those high notes they did in the series.

Ludwig

We really enjoyed this hybrid detective show. When James, a detective, goes missing, his reclusive puzzle loving and making brother, John is called in to help find out what has happened. John and James are twins, both played by the brilliant David Mitchell. No one knows he is stepping in for his brother, how long can he keep it up before someone finds out, especially given he is amongst detectives. Ludwig (John's puzzle alias) gets into all sorts of binds, but manages to be a pretty good detective too. It is a thriller/mystery with a lot of humour. Can't wait for S2.

The Crown - final season

I found these final episodes a bit dull, I guess we had already lived through the original version, lol. That said, the acting is great and the set design to die for. 

The Office UK Complete

It was lovely to rewatch this gem. I found it more cringey than original viewings, but that didn't take away from genius of the show. It still holds up too. Always worth a re-watch.

Parks and Recreation Complete

Andrew had never seen this, so I rewatched with him over some months. I remember it taking me a few seasons to really get into the show. Andrew loved it immediately, and it was fun watching the show through his eyes. It really is a work of genius how they built the show and how the characters evolved (or not) over time. Lil Sebastian is still my favourite ep, and Ron and Chris are still my favourite characters.

Absolutely Fabulous

What can I say, one of the all-time great comedies! It still (for the most part) holds up and is utterly hilarious. Joanna Lumley's portrayal of Patsy is outstanding, her physical comedy one of the best. These gals will always feel like friends to me. I will never tire of this show, an absolute classic!

Documentary Reviews

Will and Harper

This is one of the best and most touching documentaries I have seen in a long time. Will is Will Ferrell and Harper is one of his oldest friends who has recently transitioned to a woman. Harper used to write on SNL and loved long road trips. Will and Harper decide to go on a road trip to see if Harper can safely visit these areas now she is a woman and for Wil to get to know her and ask all the questions. It is a beautiful film of love and friendship.

The Space Shuttle that fell to earth

This was a doco series that had me transfixed. I remember when Columbia crashed in 2003, and how sad it was and how unreal it felt. To crash on take off, ok, but landing, I didn't think that could happen. Of course, I understand the severity of what they are doing, but it was quite the shock. The series interviews all the remaining players, along with footage of the crew, before and during their time in space. Many people knew something was wrong, but the powers that be kept shutting them down. It was fastidious in detail and utterly fascinating. But also devastatingly heart breaking, there are interviews with children of the astronauts, grown up and some still deeply upset by the loss. Not for the faint hearted, but this is simply perfection in terms of story telling.

Podcast Reviews

The Wonder of Stevie podcast

This is a great podcast produced by the Obamas, about the utterly brilliant run of albums Stevie had from 1972-1976. 5 masterpieces, each one is broken down against the history of that time and what was going on in Stevie's life. The music is my favourite period, loads of interesting people are interviewed too. It's worth it for the music alone, but the information is also fascinating!

OSCAR WATCH 2024: the movies

Anora 

I was keen to see this movie as Mikey Madison was the oldest daughter on one of my favourite shows, Better Things. What a remarkable performance. Mikey's character Anora or Annie is an exotic dancer/sex worker in a club. She is a joyous person and full of dreams. She meets a gorgeous young Russian, who invites her to his glamorous apartment, they fall in love, and head to Vegas on a whim to marry. Then the story really begins, no spoilers. 

This is a love story, a crime caper, dramatic, and comedic. A true indie film but it looks amazing, and Mikey absolutely steals the show. She is in with a chance for Best Actress, though she has to beat the favourite, Demi Moore.

The Apprentice

Ahhh, I watched this under duress, lol. It was actually a good film. Sebastian Stan as Trump and Jeremy Strong as Roy Cohn were great. This focuses on Trump's early years as he is trying to break free from his father (played by the great Martin Donovan!). And I will admit for the first 20 minutes or so I actually felt sorry for him. it didn't last long. These people are truly horrid. This film will not win anything, but the acting is fine.

The Brutalist

I really wanted to love this one, but I did not. Yes, it was long, and I appreciated the concept but there were times in the first section, it could have done with an edit and towards the end of the second section. It was a good story, an important story of the struggles of immigrants trying to settle post WWII. It also was about the pursuit of greatness, in architecture. Brutalist architecture, quite striking, worked well within the film, but I wanted more. 

Adrian Brody's performance was amazing, and initially was a front runner for the Best Actor, but with the knowledge of AI being used on accents, I feel the interest in waning, and that may do him and the film harm. The second act certainly was the better half, especially with the introduction of his wife, played by the brilliant Felicity Jones.

This may go on to win the accolades but it left me cold, too long, lacking the impact I was expecting, trying to do too many things. Having said that, there was a lot to appreciate about this film. One is the exceptional Guy Pearce, always deserving and If Kieran Culkin wasn't such a lock in, then Best Supporting Actor may well be his.

A Complete Unknown

This is my favourite film of the group. I was so unsure about it going in, as a Dylan fan, but I needn't have been. It was beautifully shot, capture the time and the essence of Bob at the time so very well. Timothee Chalamet was perfection at Dylan, by the halfway mark you forgot it was him, and believed it was Dylan. He sang and played all the songs, everyone did. I thought both Norton (as Pete Seeger) and Monica Barbaro (as Joan Baez) were outstanding. In a perfect world all three would win in their categories. Although Chalamet might just be in with a chance. If you haven't seen this and you are unsure, don't be, go and see it.

Conclave

This was really good, a story of thrills and intrigue (yes, really, remember it is taken from a Robert Harris novel) set against the backdrop of choosing a new pope. This is an intense film with twists and turns. The acting is superb, and all are deserving. But if Isabella Rossellini wins I will be thrilled, it is a possibility, but not looking likely.

Dune: part two

We had the good fortune to see this on the IMAX at Darling Harbour. It was just perfection. Great cast, huge and full of stars. Chalamet and Zendaya were amazing. Austin Butler and Christopher Walken were great new additions. The cinematography and effects were next level, especially on that big screen. I think it may win some of those types of Oscars.

Elton John: it's never too late

This was a great doco on Elton, showcasing his earlier (my favourite period) career, and the present. Great footage, great interviews with Elton and those surrounding him. The recent footage was personal, included his family and showed what he does since retiring from touring. Total joy this doco, but the featured song is nominated so quite possibly could win.

Emilia Perez

I really liked Emilia Perez, it was doing something very different and would be the frontrunner for many awards if the controversy had not happened. It is chaotic and melodramatic and a musical but it works. Especially when I found out it was based on an opera, it made perfect sense. It is a story of twists and turns, and the acting is phenomenal. I suspect Zoe Saldana will win Best Supporting Actress.

Nickel Boys

This is based on the Pulitzer Prize winning novel by Colson Whitehead (I am such a fan, he is a two-time Pulitzer winner, only one of four to do so). When I heard the book was to be adapted to the screen I had my doubts, it was written in an almost unfilmable way, but they have really shone and lifted the story with the film. It is shot similar to Peep Show, from the protagonists' point of view. It moves between the time of the young men at Nickel Academy and more recent times when the Academy is being investigated, with its devastation. This probably will not win anything, but it should.

Nosferatu

I loved this, it was a great adaptation, one of the best I have seen. Shot beautifully and acted well, Lily Rose Depp was amazing, all the acting was. it was atmospheric, amusing, grotesque and beautiful. 

A Real Pain

This is my second favourite film of the season. A road trip of sorts when 2 cousins travel to Poland to visit where their grandparents lived and escaped the terror of WW2. Written and directed by Jesse Eisenberg, A Real Pain is a triumph. Both Jesse and Kieran Culkin (the cousin) are superb, particularly Culkin. The film toggles that beautiful line between humour and drama. There are moments of unbearable despair, yet it never feels too heavy, the lighter moments work well. Culkin has never been better, and Eisenberg is the perfect foil. There are many layers that unravel in this film, twists if you will, subtly placed and delivered with impact but not shock. The biggest shock of the film was the older lady on the tour was Jennifer Grey. This film will undoubtedly get Culkin a Best Supporting Oscar and Eisenberg the Original Screenplay. At least I hope so!

The Substance

This is some kind of wonderful mixed with a fair amount of horror. I don't do horror, but this is a different type of horror, more horrifying. Demi Moore plays a fading actress hosting an aerobics style show (Jane Fonda in the 80s anyone?). Still looking stunning her number is up, she is to be replaced by a younger version. The head of the network, a large, slimy, foul man named Harvey (hmmm) delivers the news. She is devastated. She is delivered an odd parcel, that is almost like a treasure hunt she goes in search of something that may help her. This is the essence of The Substance and this is where the horror slowly emerges. To continue to explain would be significant spoilers and I watched the film without these spoilers and that increased it's impact I think. Demi Moore AND Margaret Qualley are remarkable in this. Demi feels like a shoe-in for best Actress, but Mikey Madison is giving her a run for the money! 

Wicked

I read this book (By Gregory Maguire) when it first came out and then I saw the Stage show when it first came to Sydney, some decades ago, and loved it. I was very keen on seeing the film. It was everything I hoped it would be and more. Wicked is the prequel to The Wizard Of Oz. Ariana Grande (Galinda/Glinda) and Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba or eventually The Wicked Witch) are just terrific, the supporting cast also perfection. The songs are a delight, and the set design exactly as I imagined. Unsure what this will win, probably minor award, like production etc.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER REVIEWS

What I've Been Reading

Stone Yard Devotional by Charlotte Wood

I loved this book so much, you can see why it was nominated for the Booker.  A nameless woman escapes her life to a convent near the town she grew up in. Her days are simple and repetitive as she reflects on the trauma that went before. Whilst she is silently going about her retreat, the nuns are preparing for the return of a beloved sister's body, murdered overseas. There has also been a drought and there is a huge infestation of mice.

This sounds dour and I guess it is, but not in Charlotte Wood's deft hands. There is something light and easy within the darker tones that lift the reader and also makes it a page turner. You want to know what and why. Her writing is spare but full of emotions, and she creates a world you do not want to leave. This is a special book, will easily make my top 5 this year.

Question 7 by Richard Flanagan

Oh my goodness, another masterpiece. This is a memoir of Richard, his father and the war with some HG Wells thrown in for good measure. How does it all tie up together? Beautifully so, but to try and describe it would do it no favours plus spoilers! I love books like this, every time you think you know where it is headed, it takes a sharp turn and takes you somewhere completely different. 

His father was a prisoner of war in Japan near Hiroshima at that time, he nearly died in his beloved Franklin River, but what he weaves between these two life and death events WILL leave you breathless. It has been called a daisy chain of events, my colleague said it was the ripple effect of life. 

His words and sentence structure, made me constantly pause, re-read, read out loud, text people, and weep. But mostly it made me think. It was astonishingly beautiful. It is full of heart, sharp humour, and genuine drama. This is easily one of the best books I have read.

One Day We Are All Going to Die - Elise Eshe Hearst

This is a lovely companion piece to Nadine Cohen's Everyone and Everything. Naomi is in her mid 20s, working at the Jewish Museum in Melbourne and having a torrid affair with her married colleague. Her holocaust survivor Grandmother, Cookie, is starting to suffer from Dementia. Her life is a mess, she needs to make some changes. This is dark and deep, light and humourous, and full of interesting information about working in a museum. 

The Pursuit of Art by Martin Gayford

I enjoyed this book about the author travelling to see great and unusual art or interview artists including Marina Abramovic and Henri Cartier-Bresson. Gayford is an art critic and writer, and his essays are easy to read and engaging. He loves art and this comes across and is infectious. He travels at great lengths to see some amazing art. He makes you want to follows his every step.

Weather by Jenny Offill

This is an interesting novella about Lizzie, a Librarian who has seen it all, but is very disillusioned with the world. She muses on race and politics and the environment. hmmm. She looks after her mother and brother, both have mental health issues. Her husband and son are on a holiday without her. Her life is same old, same old, but then her old mentor asks for her help answering emails for her blog. Her mentor has a science/environmental blog that is popular and the correspondence is getting out of control. Lizzie uses this correspondence to help make meaning of her life and life generally.

The Mystery Writer by Sulari Gentille

Another stand-alone murder mystery by Gentille. Theo is staying with her lawyer brother in the US, after abandoning her own career in law in Australia. She is trying to write her debut novel and meets a writing hero in the small-town dinner. They strike a relationship but he turns up dead a week later and she is a suspect. The race is on to find the killer before she gets put away herself. This is a classic murder with twists and turns. 

We'll Prescribe You a Cat by Syou Ishida

Another Japanese comfort book, this time short stories. People visiting a special psychologist who prescribes a cat for them to look after as their medicine. Quirky, humourous and moving, this was a lot of fun.

The Cat Who Saved Books by Sosuke Natsukawa

When Rintaro's grandfather dies, he is left alone looking after his grandfather's second hand bookshop until his aunt comes to collect him. His school friends visit and try to cheer him up, but one day a talking cat, Tiger, appears and takes him through a portal in the shop to other dimensions, where he helps the cat 'save books'. A little bit of magic realism works in these comfort books from Japan. This is cute, witty, and wise. Highly recommend.

Where the Deer and the Antelope Play by Nick Offerman

Three memoir style essays from Nick Offerman about the American outdoors, specifically three different journey style holidays he has taken. My favourite of the three is a hiking trek he takes with Jeff Tweedy and George Saunders (IKR!!!!). Fascinating conversation and observations, funny and so very intelligent. At times I felt like I was intruding.  A great read.

The Encoding Green: poems of fields, meadows, and grasses edited by Cecily Parks

Cecily has gathered all sorts of poems that celebrate the green of our natural world. Poetry, classic and modern celebrating the grasses, fields, and land on our earth. Just beautiful.

What I've Been Watching

Hacks S3

Hacks is one of my favourite shows, and S3 upped the ante. Firstly, we get to see inside Deborah's clothes bunker...amazing! Some amazing guest stars, especially J Smith-Cameron as her estranged sister, and Deidre Hall as herself (this was pure gold!). The ups and downs continued as The Late Show is dangled in front of Deborah. Will she get the gig or will she sabotage it. This show is all killer, no filler, can't wait for S4!

Getting On S1-3 US

I loved the UK version of this show, that came first. Jo Brand wrote and starred in it, based on her years nursing. I wasn't sure about the US remake (which is some years old now) but it starred Alex Borstein, Niecy Nash, and the superb Laurie Metcalf. It was pretty good, with the right mix of pathos and humour. And as always, Metcalf showcases her unique sense of physical humour which always draws me in.

Julia S2

The second series of Julia, commence with Julia and her hubby holidaying in France at Simones (Isabella Rossellini), before heading back to the US to shoot the follow season of her successful show. Avis (Bebe Neuwirth) follows them over and gets caught up with Jean-Paul Satre. David Hyde Pierce gets to showcase his talents by also playing the twin brother of Paul Child and Sarah Lancashire is perfection as Julia Childs. A lot happens in this season, it is a shame it was not continued.

Frasier

I didn't mind the first season of the Frasier reboot, thing is the cast is good, but it just isn't the old cast. The kid that plays Niles' son is perfection and a few guest appearances kept things rolling. I will give S2 a go when I get a chance.

Long Way Up

I loved the first 2 Ewan MacGregor and Charley Boorman series where they took motorcycles through Africa and across the world. This is the third series after a long break. Charley has been doing a lot of solo motorcycle shows and was recovering from a serious injury. This time they are tackling South and Central America, which includes quite a few challenging areas, from the terrain to the people. And they are doing it on prototype electric Harleys! This in itself was quite the challenge. 

This was a genuinely edge of your seat show, placing our heroes in some tricky positions. But their beautiful friendship and love for each other and riding shine through. At one section Ewan meets up with one of his daughters - who he adopted from Mongolia after meeting her in the first ride they did many years ago - this was quite emotional.

I love a good travel show and this gives you that and then some. Highly recommend.

Michael Palin in Nigeria

This was Palin at his best, still travelling in his 80s and after his wife has died. He is certainly more fragile than I have ever seen him but also still managing perfectly fine. The humour and his love of people are still there. This one was gret viewing.

The Assembly

The has had varying reviews but I really enjoyed it. A bunch of disabled students are put through their paces at University doing media and getting to interview Australian celebrities as part of it all. They have media legend, Leigh Sales, showing them the ropes and guiding them through and each episode goes behind the scenes of the prep and then shows the interview. They were all superb, but the PM (I mean what other PM would allow such a personal thing other than Albo!), Amanda Keller, and Delta Goodrem stood out.

Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice

We saw this at the cinemas and really enjoyed it. It did take a while to get into and the exposition at the beginning was really clunky. But once we got to Halloween and the glorious Burton set design, things started to move. It didn't really offer anything new, but that was ok. Much like the Banana Boat Song in the first, the musical number in this one was also masterful. It had us both squealing with laughter. Everyone was great, especially Jenna Ortega and Michael Keaton (who looked like he was just having a blast!) but man I love seeing Winona back on the screen, she was everything!

Beetlejuice

We had to rewatch this prior to seeing the new one. It is a close to perfect film, from the cast, to the set design, the worlds created and Beetlejuice himself. Iconic cast and film and hasn't really dated either. Daylight come and I wanna go home! 

Being John Malkovich

Rewatching BJM fot the millionth time. Although, it has been a while but it still holds up beautifully. It is one of the most perfect films I have seen. What a script!!! I remember seeing it at the cinema and I've never laughed so much out loud than at that seminal Malkovich scene.

So much to take from it. How beautiful and clever it was. Spike Jonze and Charlie Kaufman's first film. Michael Stipe produced it. Why didn't Cameron Diaz do more indie roles. The clever cameos. Cusack and Keener were never better. But mostly, what a terrific sport JM was. Totally worth the rewatch.

30 for Brady

A fun film starring Jane Fonda, Rita Moreno, Sally Field, and Lily Tomlin. All in their 80s, they look and are utterly brilliant, it was a bit of a feel good football film, and not great, but the brilliance of the main 4 more than made up for a dodgy script.

Mothering Sunday

Jane is the servant of a rich family in 20s England. She is having an affair with their friend and neighbour, Paul. He is engaged to another. Paul's parents are having a garden party with his fiance's parents, and he stays at home with Jane. Then he rushes off to the party. Jane lingers in the mansion before returning to her own, where she returns to find Paul has been killed in a car crash. The story also moves to the future where Jane is now a writer and married but still holding the secret. Another jump to the future (now played by the glorious Glenda Jackson, her first on screen roles in years) she is an award-winning writer. The film jumps about a bit but is really lovely.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry

Based on the book of the same name, Harold receives a letter from an old colleague who reveals she is dying of cancer. He decides to take a walking pilgrimage to visit her and collects many friends and media attention on the way, much to the chagrin of his wife. Beautifully portrayed by Jim Broadbent, this was a really lovely film.

Event Horizon

This came up in the Sam Neill autobiography and I had never heard of it, so wanted to check it out. It is not great, more a B grade sci-fi with some memorable scenes. It now has quite the cult following, you can see why. It is almost so bad it is good...almost!

Remembering Gene Wilder

This was such a great documentary. Wilder was such a genius and talent, yet such a gentle soul with those beautiful eyes. There was his back story, his rise, his collaborations with Brooks, his relationships, especially with Richard Prior, and all those great films. Loads of interviews with others and some lovely voice work by Wilder himself, coming from interviews and a book of his life he narrated. A must watch for film buffs.

Supermensch

I saw this a few years back and it popped up in my timeline and I said to Andrew we have to watch this. He loved it and it was just as great as the first time. Shep Gordon was a talent manager in Hollywood, and he looked after an eclectic stable of stars, from Alice Cooper to Blondie to Anne Murray to Michael Douglas and that barely tips the surface. So you hear about all of these people and Shep and how great he was. A truly beloved man, and quite the enigma. This is a great doco!

McKellen: playing the part

A lovely little doco about the man and his theatrical life. It barely tipped the surface but it was enjoyable.

David Holmes: the boy who lived

This is a remarkable and little known story. David was Daniel Radcliffe's stunt double in the Harry Potter movies until a simple stunt went wrong in The Deathly Hallows, Part 1. His neck was broken and he is paralysed from the neck down. The doco is about his short but wonderful career as a stunt double, his work on Harry Potter and his life since the accident. Spoiler: Daniel and him are still close friends, but that is why Daniel is so beloved. This gets quite emotional in parts, but mostly is an uplifting and wonderful doco.

What I've Been listening to

Brydon & Richard Ayoade

I love the Rob Brydon podcast, Brydon &, but his interview with Richard Ayoade was exceptional. Richard Ayoade is mostly as you see him, but there is a slight persona when he is being filmed. Here you really got to know Ayoade, the father, the husband, the friend, the human and it was glorious. Look it up, you won't be disappointed.

Paul Giamatti

Paul Giamatti has a podcast with philosopher Stephen Asma called Chinwag. And that is what happens, they have a chinwag about all things esoteric but especially occult. They muse together, and with guests about these kind of topics, life and everything else. I adore Giamatti's voice and would listen to him read the phone  book, but I don't have to. I can listen to this.

JULY/AUGUST REVIEWS

What I've Been Reading

Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel

This is one of the best books I have read in a long time and will definitely be a contender for my book of the year. It is a difficult book to write about without spoilers. It is speculative fiction, but feels more like a very impressive literary fiction work, with a touch of fantasy within, the fantasy being time travel. But really, whilst that is the main plot device, it is written in such a subtle way, if that is usually not your thing, it won't ruin the book for you.

It takes place from 1912 to way in the future, and is about memory and time.

The characters draw you in and keep the pages turning, as does the story. Center to the plot is a mystery, and it keeps you guessing to the end. It is beautifully written, and really makes you think. I want to write so much more, but I will not. This is a must read, it was on Obama's best reads of 2022, so you know it's good!

Days at Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa

I don't really do light reading if you haven't worked that out over the years. If I want to rest my brain, I simple rest my brain, or flick through a magazine. I want to learn and go deep when I read. However, I have been really, really enjoying this new genre, of chill Asian (mostly from Japan and Hong Kong) reads. They are not very long and usually involve 1 or 2 (if not all) of the following: cats, coffee, bookshops, reading. Not a huge amount happens, but there is certainly plot. There is a great zen and chill feel to the characters and story, they are calming and fascinating to read.

Days at the Morisaki, is about a young woman, Takako, who decides to take  break from her job and visit her eccentric uncle. She is a broken heart, and takes him up on the offer to live in a small room above his second hand book-store. He lives in Jimbocho, which is a real live town in Tokyo, full of many book-store and publishing houses. It sounds surreal and amazing. Takako spends her time between helping in the book-store and hanging out at the local coffee shop, making friends and healing. When her uncle's estranged wife turns up, things take an interesting turn.

The Honeyeater by Jessie Tu

I loved Jessie's debut novel, A Lonely Girl is a Dangerous Thing, and The Honeyeater is as good if not better. Fay is a translator and works in academia. She is heading to France for a trip with her mother. She has a fractious relationship with her mother and is hoping the trip will smooth things a little as her mother gets older. She is working on a large translation she is hoping will make her better known in the translation world and has also broken off a relationship with her professor. There is a lot going on in Fay's life and when her supervisor's husband goes missing, things really get interesting. 

This is really well written, covers some interesting themes, and is a page turner. My only criticism is there were a few clunky turns towards the end to pull things completely together. You could see the wheels turning, which I always get annoyed with, but really that was minor. I cannot wait to see what Jessie Tu turns out next.

The Vulnerables by Sigrid Nunez

I have been bingeing Sigrid and loving her more with each read. The Vulnerables is set in New York during the pandemic. A middle-aged woman is house-sitting for a friend, and with that comes looking after her friend's bird. When the previous house-sitter - a young man - unexpectedly turns up, the tension heightens. The Vulnerables is a meditation on life, sharing the inner thoughts of the main character alongside of social niceties and pandemic trauma. 

So late in the Day by Claire Keegan

This is a rumination of relationships between men and women, what is and what could be. Everyone is raving about Claire Keegan, and the stories are good, but not great. As always, I am out of the loop and do not understand the hype. 

She is the Earth by Ali Cobby Eckermann

This is luminous book of poetry, or rather a 'verse novel' as each poem tells a continuing story. The story is Ali's relationship with the earth and all its beauty. Mountain ranges, oceans, trees, storms, clouds and so on. Utterly stunning, but at times harsh, all written with love.

She is Fierce: brave, bold and beautiful poems by women edited by Ana Simpson

Continuing with my love of poetry, this is a compilation of kick arse poems by amazing female poets. From heavy weights like Christina Rossetti, Margaret Atwood, Gertrude Stein, Emily Dickinson, Maya Angelou, and Dorothy Parker to unknowns, older and contemporary. This was great!

For the Working Class Man by Jimmy Barnes

This is the second volume of Jimmy's autobiography and covers the Cold Chisel years. It is no surprise he lived life on the edge, so much so he should be dead many times over. But reading this, or rather listening to Jimmy read it on talking book, tells the whole story and wow! Amazing stories on songwriting, touring, and drinking and drugs! It is the story of his attempts, many, of recovery. It is most importantly the story of Jane Barnes, what a phenomenal woman. I have no doubt that he is the man he is today (and still alive) because of her. This was a rip roaring read, and whilst he frustrated me at times, I thoroughly enjoyed the book.

Ice: tales from a disappearing world by Marco Tedesco with Alberto Flores d'Arcais

I loved this non-fiction, part memoir, part scientific book set in Greenland. Marco is an American scientist who spends part of the year in Greenland, look at the landscapes and working on environmental issues. It is part memoir of his time there and what it means to be a scientist in Greenland. It is also a geographical study of Greenland and climate in the area. Both are endlessly fascinating.

Best wishes by Richard Glover

This was a load of fun, as Glover's books always are. I listened to him reading it on spoken word. Which was a great move. Basically there are 365 chapters, one for each day of the year and each one has a wish or hope for change in the world that Richard would like to see. From plastic wrapped fruit and pre-ripped jeans to climate change, nothing is off the table. Told with humour and tongue firmly placed in cheek, this will make you laugh but also nod furiously in agreement.

Full Coverage: a history of rock journalism in Australia by Samuel J. Fell

This was a good, solid historical account of rock journalism. However, it was very dry and matter of a fact. It could have been far more interesting and written in a more enjoyable way. There is a lot of detail and fun to be had with this type of journalism, and whilst it ticked the boxes of what happened and who was there I felt it could have been so much more.

Transcendence : 50 years of unforgettable moments at the Sydney Opera House

This is a lovely coffee table style book with stunning photos of the Opera House and of shows and moments on the stages and the stairs. 50 moments were chosen, each with a memorable essay from someone involved in the moment or in the audience. Some of the people featured are Nick Cave, Briggs, Paul Kelly, David McAllister, Richard Tognetti, John Olsen, Deborah Mailman, William Barton, Simone Young, and Iva Davies. A wonderful gift to arts lovers.

A brief atlas of Lighthouses at the end of the world by Gonzalez Macias

I loved this coffee table style book. I have always loved lighthouses, there is something so very romantic about them. Lighthouses are featured with photos and drawings, and a little essay of their history etc. A very calming read.

What I've Been Watching

The Bear S3

What can be said that hasn't been said before. This is one of the best written shows on TV. This season upped the dramatic angle and had you on the edge of your seat for most of it. Not one to binge, you need time to breathe and think in between each episode. The characters arcs keep building and building. Liza Colon-Zayas as Tina gets a whole episode back story and understandably wins the Emmy for it. So wonderful for a show to let the non-leads shine Every single character is amazing on this show which is why it is the gold standard for TV right now.

Squid Game

I finally got around to watching this intense show. I really didn't have any clue about what to expect even though I knew the premise of the show. No spoilers here, but this is another one that is difficult to binge, you want to know what happens next but you need to let your heart rate slow down. And then you find out exactly what the show is about, and your mind is blown. Not for the faint hearted, but totally worth watching.

Doctor Who

Absolutely LOVED the new series of Doctor Who, and especially the new Doctor, Ncuti Gatwa. I also loved the manbabies having a sookie cry about the new doctor, fuckwittage at it's very best!

But on to the fun, Ncuti is such a brilliant actor, he is an utterly brilliant face actor, that is he doesn't have to say a thing, his face says it all. And when he smiles, his whole face and body smiles and he lifts you no matter how good you are feeling. Ruby Sunday grew on me, and her back story. I particularly loved the fairy circle episode and the final one. Bring on the Christmas special.

The Twelve S2

Sam Neill was back with another great season of The Twelve.  A new case, a murder, and much intrigue. A wonderful new cast, with the usual range of interconnecting stories, even moreso as the murder was in a small rural town. Many twists and turns, and it keeps you on the edge of your seat. Definitely recommend.

Austin

Look Austin wasn't brilliant, but it really grew on me. I loved Michael Theo as soon as he spoke on Love on the Spectrum and he is utterly brilliant in this. The problem was the storytelling felt clunky and Theo was so good, so real, so honest, he showed up the seasoned actors that rounded out the cast. But by the end, I wanted more and was happy to hear S2 is in production. 

Walking Dead: Dead City

One of the three spin offs from the original Walking Dead franchise. Focusing on Maggie and Negan, two of the best characters on the show, this is not great. Frenemies on the show, to pair them seems like it might be ok and it was ok, but not great. Maggie's son is kidnapped and they head off to Manhattan to find him. The set design was great and Zeljko Ivanek as the baddies (as always) was brilliant, but it lacked something I cannot put my finger on.

Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon

This was far better. Daryl is in France, there is a whole back story as to why (and to be honest it is a stretch but you do kinda go with you!), that even Daryl himself seems confused about. Norman Reedus really shines here as Daryl. He always did, but he pumps it up a few notches with this. Abandoned France and especially Paris is eerie and brilliant, superb set design here. And a great cast of French actors really up things too. The brilliant Dominique Pinon (The Return of Martin Guerre, Betty Blue, Delicatessen, City of Lost Children, Amelie etc) and Clemence Posey are particularly great. The Storyline does very much echo The Last of Us, which is apparently a coincidence. This had me sucked in as the early series of the original Walking Dead and I and very keen to see S2.

Shelved

This is a US comedy set in a library. Library comedies never quite get it right, but this one isn't too bad. There are loads of amusing moments that ring true but equally as many that do not. Also why is the branch librarian always a bit of an idiot? I didn't mind this one

An Audience with The Goodies

This was a lovely interview with all three Goodies while they were all still alive. It was padded with loads of cool clips that they talked about. They were all lovely and for the most part exactly what you would imagine they would be as older gents.

Hard Quiz Kids

We love Hard Quiz and couldn't resist the Kids edition! Some were the parent pushed painful smarty's but some were genuine geeky clever. There was one kid we loved who's topic was the Puffing Billy railway and he was amazing. We loved him. It was a lot of fun, and we hope they make more.

Hunt for truth: Tasmanian Tiger

This sucked me right in, a documentary about the search for the Tasmanian Tiger. Based on some supposed recent sighting, the documentary takes the main guy on quite the journey. No Spoilers, but I was totally and utterly on the edge of my seat. 

Wicked Little Letters

This was a fabulously weird comedy starring International Treasure, Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley based on a real life story from the 20s. A small town community start to receive poison pen letter after a young single mother (Buckley) moves into town. Who is sending them and why. Colman's character grows close to the young woman and things start to unravel. This was a dark comedy, very funny but also quite sad at the same time. Totally unusual and as always Colman is a tour de force.

The Rooster

The Rooster is a great Australian film starring Hugo Weaving. Set in a rural community, a woman is missing, the local policeman's mental health is declining, especially when a fox gets his prized rooster and his best friend commits suicide. He decides to take some time and go bush where he encounters The Hermit. The Hermit (Weaving...natch!) and the policeman forma bond. This is a dramatic and at times eerie movie but it has a lot of heart.

Wonka

Wonka took a while to get into the swing of things. Chalamet was great as a young Wonka, and the supporting cast tremendous, especially Hugh Grant as a put upon Oompa Loompa. Every scene he is in is lifted tremendously, he wasn't in it enough. The set design was brilliant and engaging, bright colours and very delectable chocolate treats. There was a lovely whimsical feel to some of the film, and the songs and dancing worked well. I guess the thing is with any Willy Wonka film since the seminal 70s one with Gene Wilder doesn't stand a chance. Wilder became Wonka, and jumped off the pages of Dahl's books in a way that no one imagined. He is simply untouchable. Having said that, this was a lot of fun and I really enjoyed it.

Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre

A Guy Ritchie film with Jason Stratham as a spy trying to extract a stolen device from an atrocious arms dealer (Hugh Grant again...totally knocking it out the park as a greasy scum bag). Audrey Plaza, Josh Hartnett, and Cary Elwes round out the main cast and it a heady mix of action and dark humour. Josh Hartnett is outstanding playing a bastardised version of himself. This was a fun romp.

Hitman

This was a silly, fun movie about a professor who works with the police on the side. When he is asked to be an undercover hitman, chaos reigns. Directed by Richard Linklater (I love him so), this made for TV movie moves fast and is funny. Glen Powell (the new Brad Pitt if you believe the hype) is solid as the lead. This is based on a real life story, and written by Powell and Linklater. I had fun watching this. Also loved seeing Retta (Parks and Rec) as a sassy police woman.

The Miracle Club

Laura Linney returns home after many decades to attend her mother's funeral. She meets with her mother's friends, Maggie Smith and Kathy Bates, each with their own issues and they end up on a pilgrimage to Lourdes. There are some great moments here, but with such a great female cast, the story needed to be much better. This was ok.

Alice in Wonderland

The is the 1933 version of Alice, and it is quite something. It is live action, with some animation, and it is quite surreal. The cast, mostly hidden in large costumes, were WC Fields (Humpty Dumpty), Cary Grant (the mock turtle), Edward Everett Horton (The Mad Hatter), Gary Cooper (white night). This is totally worth a look. I was so thrilled to see it after all these years.

Masquerade 

Isabelle Adjani and Francois Cluzet star in this romp on the French Riveria about 2 young cons trying to manipulate older wealthy people out of their money. Great setting, good acting, this is a good French comedy.

Wonderwell

This is a Fantasy set in Italy and the reason I watched it was it was Carrie Fisher's final film. It is about the adventures of a young girl, her older sister is a model for Rita Ora's fashion designs. Bored she escapes the small town they are staying in, and ends up in some kind of enchanted forest where the local witch/enchantress is Carrie Fisher. Not the greatest film, but she certainly made it worthwhile watching.

One Love

As suspected this was a disappointing Bob Marley biopic. The movie takes place around his attempted assassinations and the peace concert he was trying to pull together, which is a fascinating part of his life. This was ok, but the casting just didn;t gel. I never thought it would. I cannot see how anyone could pull off the enigma that is Bob Marley. The charisma, the grace, the humour, the musicality the chill, that smile, and then, that voice...utterly impossible. The film isn't bad, I think if you didn't know much about Bob, it would be a nice entry to him.

Unfrosted

This is the Jerry Seinfeld directed film about the mostly true story of the Pop-Tart. A huge cast of comedians, there are moments of absolute hilarity, but it is also a huge hot mess of a film. It just didn't work as a film, as a series of bits with hugely talented people in small parts it was grand. So go in with zero expectations, you will get plenty of laughs. I also loved the set and costumes!

Bob and Don: a love story

This is a lovely documentary about the unlikely friendly of Don Rickles and Bob Newhart. I loved this so much, and learnt so much about these amazing comedians. I knew they were friends, and knew a lot of their public personas, but not much at all about their personal lives and some of their ups and downs. This will make you smile so much, I loved it.

Duran Duran: a Hollywood High

A doco about Duran Duran following a live show they are putting on in Hollywood in the early 2020s to celebrate 40 years of the band. It shows the leadup to the performance, the back story, interviews and clips, and the concert itself. Loads of fun and they still have it.

Joan Armatrading: live at Asylum Chapel

Stunning concert set in this beautiful chapel showcasing Armatrading's still brilliant voice. Really amazing.

What I've been listening to

INXS recorded live at the US festival 1983

This is a new live cutting I got from the vinyl fair, and it is wonderful. This is INXS in their early (and best) years. They sound sharp and great, Michael in particular. This took me straight back to the first time I heard Just Keep Walking and I was drawn immediately to the band. I love that early period so it is a gift to have this live recording (found abandoned and tidied up) from then.

Where Everyone Knows Your Name Podcast

A few great new podcasts, and this is the best of them. Ted Danson and (sometimes) Woody Harrelson, friend on Cheers, get together to and interview people they know. This is such fun and make you (me) love Ted more than you ever imagined you could (which is a lot). He is such a Mensch, and everyone loves him. Woody is not always there, but when he is it lifts the interview even higher. Best episode was George Wendt. You can just imagine.

The Rest is Entertainment Podcast

This is a close second to my fave new podcast. Richard Osman and Marina Hyde chatting about the week in entertainment. Between the two of them there isn't much they don't know about the entertainment industry and each week they dissect what has been happening in the past week, they also answer questions from viewers. This is an endlessly fascinating, and they have a great relationship, and it tells.                                                                                                  

FFF My Dad is Martin Kemp

This is a Martin Kemp (Spandau Ballet) giving advice to his Son (Rowen already a star himself, hosting breakfast television amongst other things) on various topics each week. I don't think Martin is the sharpest tool in the shed, but he still looks great and is a kind soul, and he has the best stories from his time in the band, usually at the chagrin of his son. Possibly only for fans.                                        

Dick and Angel's Chat...eau Podcast

This is for everyone that is devastated (me) The escape to the Chateau is no longer on television. I love this couple, and the podcast is what they have been up to post TV, stories that never made it to air, travels with their stage show and in France, and about their relationship and family. Loads of laughs and fun.

Wiser Than Me S2 Podcast

Julia Louis-Dreyfus is back with another season of this award winning and brilliant podcast where she interviews a load of older amazing women. The concept remains the same as S1, it is a three parter. Part 1 is a small riff on something that came up in the interview, part 2 is the interview, and part 3 is Julia ringing her 90 year old mother to discuss the podcast. Guest this season are Patti Smith, Sally Field, Bonnie Raitt, Debbie Allen, Vera Wang, Gloria Steinem, Julie Andrews,  and more.

Lovebuzz by The Hummingbirds

One of my favourite albums from the early 90s, I got a vinyl copy to replace my old cassette copy. It took me straight back and I knew every word. A great album with lovely pop tunes and great harmonies.

BuckinghamNicks by Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham

This is a classic album, pre Fleetwood Mac, that is VERY difficult to find on vinyl. But I did, the cover is worth the price alone, a very provocative black and white photo of a seemingly naked Nicks and Buckingham. The songs are great and you can see why Mick Fleetwood wanted them to join the band. This is a great album.

MAY/JUNE REVIEWS

What I've Been Reading

Everyone and Everything by Nadine J Cohen

I followed Nadine on Twitter in its heyday, and she was hilarious. I listened to her debut novel on talking book. The narrator was her sister and she was phenomenal. This feels like it is semi auto-biographical and it was magnificent. I loved the main character's world so much I felt very despondent when it was over, I did not want to leave.

It follows, Yael, who is recovering from a break down. The story follows her slow recovery and what happens in her immediate life with her family and friend to assist this recovery. It also slowly moves backwards to see what happened in the lead up to the breakdown. This sounds bleak and at times it is, but mostly it is glorious and funny. Cohen is very funny. 

Yael spends a lot of time at a local women's baths, and befriends a lovely older woman. Yael and her family are also Jewish, so there is a lot of their beautiful culture within the novel. There is so much to love here, the instability of life, being single in a mixed-up world, pulling yourself back from the brink, the love of friends and family, and so much more. One of the best books I have read so far this year.

1984 by George Orwell

I am ashamed to say, this was my first reading of 1984. I actually listened to it on talking book. To say I loved it is a huge understatement. I have read a lot of Orwell's Non-Fiction, and always enjoyed his writing, but this is something else altogether. How he got things so right in terms of the future I will never know. But I do know (from reading his NF) that he was under surveillance during the war and he knew about the nastiness of some people...also from the war. Suffice to say, he was one of the original forecasters. 

If you haven't read this book, you really must. Not only is it beautifully written, it is a page turner and full of many woah moments. This will head into my very full top ten books.

The In-Between by Christos Tsiolkas

This is an excellent love story about two middle-aged men who meet online. They are escaping bad relationships in their past, and both have much baggage. The story progresses beautifully and slowly and also delves into their pasts. This is such a great and compelling story. Whilst it still packs the usual Tsiolkas punch, there is also a lovely tenderness you don't always feel in his books. I couldn't put this one down. Highly recommend

Funny Ethnics by Shirley Le

Sylvia is Vietnamese and lives in Western Sydney. She is struggling to reconcile her the reality of living in Australia and her heritage. Awful things happen, but it is subtle, and at times incredibly funny. It reads like a coming-of-age story, but it is more than that. I struggled with the main character as she came across too flighty and a tad annoying. However it was a good read.

Small Circle of Beings by Damon Galgut

Galgut is a phenomenal but confronting writer. He won The Book in 2021 for The Promise, which I am currently reading. He is South African, and his writes about the people and politics there. His works grab you by throat and jolts you straight into his reality. This is a selection of short stories, and I couldn't put it down. The main story, the longest and title of the book, is about parents of a very unwell child and what they do (and do not do) to help their boy. Incredibly confronting but utterly compelling, as were most of the stories within. 

The Quarry by Damon Galgut

The Quarry was a quick and easy read, about a nameless man escaping from something you never know about. He is on the road and meets a clergyman who picks him up. They talk for a while and the man finds out the clergyman is on his way to a new town, no one has met him. The man murders the clergyman, just outside the town, and drives there to assume his identity. Things take off from there, and they were already fascinating. I won't say anymore, spoilers. It was also made into a film, which is very close to the book.

Women and Children by Tony Birch

This is the first book I have read by Australian Aboriginal, Birch, and it was magnificent. Dealing with family violence, but in the most subtle way through the eyes of a child. Don't let the subject matter turn you off, the story is written with so much love and is incredibly uplifting. The characters are drawn so beautifully and with so many layers. Whilst a dramatic book, it also has a lot of humour. My favourite relationship was between Joe, the main character, and his grandfather. It won The Age book of the year last year.

Poor Things by Alasdair Gray

This is the extraordinary book that the movie was taken from. The general storyline is much the same as the movie but it is from the male perspective rather than Bella's. I think it would have been a difficult read had I not seen the movie, but with the visuals in my mind I found it an easy read. 

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow - Gabrielle Zevin

This was a great read. I didn't realise until after I had finished it that Zevin had also written Elsewhere (a teen novel about the afterlife that is utterly brilliant) and The Storied Life of AJ Fikry (about a young child left at a bookshop) both of which I loved. All 3 books are very different. Tomorrow is about three young adults who are into gaming, and tying to get their games up and popular. It follows their ups and downs with twists and turns over a few decades. I won't say more, spoilers! But it was worth the hype!

Until August - Gabriel Garcia Marquez

Until August is a novella published 10 years after his death. On surface it is an interesting and almost meditative story of a woman's yearly journal to an island to place flowers on her mother's grave. But it develops into her having one night stands each year, despite being married. It covers a large array of the usual themes, love, families, obsession, marriage, death, but it feels so limited too. I really enjoyed it, but knowing it was meant to be a large novel made me feel a little robbed. Posthumous publishing is always fraught. Don't get me started about Harper Lee! But for lovers of GGM, this will be a little treat, just go in without expectations.

Karma: my autobiography by Boy George

This was a load of fun, loads of gossip and telling it like it is, which is George's signature tongue. He tells about Culture Club's rise to fame, the band, his lovers, the drugs and the subsequent jail time. less snarky than when he was when he was younger, and more honest in a natural way, I enjoyed this romp. But then, I have always loved George.

What are you going through Sigrid Nunez

As always Nunez tackles big issues but in a gentle, kind way. A middle aged writer, is visiting an older friend in another city. The friend has cancer, and as it progresses the relationship changes and the friend imposes on the writer. The writer is dealing with her own issues and her past life seems to be bumping into her more frequently. The book is about how women age and how they are treated, the invisibility (or not) of middle age, relationships, and impending death. It is beautifully written (Nunez is an exceptional writer, I love her work), with reality, but warmth and some humour. Definitely worth a read

What I've Been Watching

Dune II

We saw the second part of Villeneuve's trilogy at the IMAX in Sydney. Wonderful to see such a magnificent film on such a big screen. The second film took it up a notch and it was so great to soak in. The cast is phenomenal, and the visuals breathtaking. It was a long film but felt like 5 seconds, cannot wait for the third!

All is True 

This was a Branagh film with Ken as William Shakespeare and Judiy Dench as his long suffering wife. I really wanted to love this film, but it was a little dreary. Branagh and especially Dench were brilliant - they are the god and goddess of Shakespeare. I did enjoy and appreciate the film but I did not love it. 

Nineteen Eighty-Four

After reading the book, I had to watch the film. Slightly different but mostly the same and thrilling to see such a masterpiece depicted so well. Chills!

Young Frankenstein

We love a rewatch every now and then, especially if it is something one (or both) of us loves and the other hasn't seen. In this case, we both love this, but had not seen it together, what a treat. The most accessible of Brooks' films, and probably the funniest, the reworking of Frankenstein is genius. Mel Brooks is genius! Gene Wilder - as always - is perfection, the whole cast is. I love the Puttin' on the Ritz scene the most, which funnily was the one scene Brooks was not sure about. Peter Boyle is utterly brilliant in the film, but especially in this scene. Some films never date and get better with time, this is one of them.

Allelujah

This was an interesting film, with a script by Alan Bennett and Heidi Thomas. Based in geriatric ward, Jennifer Saunders is the long suffering nurse looking after the elderly. Derek Jacobi, Judi Dench, and David Bradley co-star as residents. The ward is being threatened with closure, so they decide to have a large celebration to recognise and honour the head nurse (Saunders), but chaos ensures and this lovely little film takes quite the turn. Remember, this IS Alan Bennett. I enjoyed this one

The Quarry

Pretty accurate adaptation of the book with Michael Shannon as the titular character. I didn't mind this but watched it very soon after reading the book, which played out better in my mind's eye. 

True Detective S4

Jodie Foster! She has this natural presence on screen I find so very comforting. Maybe because she has grown up doing this, maybe because I have grown up watching her do this. But I think she is one of those few stars that just have IT. You never ever catch her acting, every role feels like it is her and this is no different. Jodie is Chief police Liz Danvers, she has a lot going on in her life, and her past. SHe is a tough cookie and seems to piss a lot of people off. I bloody loved her! She show is set in a remote town in Alaska, where a scientific research station is based. When the entire crew of the station goes missing, something is up. This is a wild ride, twists and turns, a really good mystery with a possible dabbling of supernatural (which all the TD series do). FOster has a wonderful supporting cast, Kali Reis, Fiona Shaw, Christopher Eccleston and more. This is really worth watching.

The Regime

Kate Winslet stars as a crack pot Dictator of an unknown Eastern European nation. The Regime is a black comedy and completely bonkers...in the best possible way. Winslet has created the most remarkable character, and you can tell she was loving every minute of it. After her father passes, Elena takes on his role and she is completely out of her depth. When her guard becomes her advisor, things get really out of hand. To say anymore is too much of a spoiler. The gorgeous Matthias Schoenaerts is her guard, and other supporting cast are Hugh Grant, Andrea Riseborough, Martha Plimpton, and Julia Davis.

Russian Doll S2

Natasha Lyonne is back as Nadia who keeps having to relive her life on her birthday. This is a difficult one to write about without giving too much away. It is best to watch and go with the flow. It will suck you in. S2 is not a great as S1, but still compelling. The supporting cast is remarkable and Lyonne is such a versatile actress, she gives her all in this one. Just go and give it a go!

Colin From Accounts S2

I loved S1, it was close to a perfect show which is rare. S2 is really good, and had I not seen S1, I would say great. But S1 is a had act to follow so I am being tough here, and I didn't love it as much as S1. It definitely picks up as the season moves through the episodes. Again, the humour is a little wrong, but the right side of right. Unsure what else to say. Infinitely better than most things on television.

Werner Herzog: Radical Dreamer

I am such a fan of Herzog, his films and the man. I read his autobiography earlier this year and was thrilled to see this documentary about him and his films. This is a great doco, funny and interesting. Loads of behind the scenes footage, also footage with his wife and family. You find out more in the book, but the doco is so visually wonderful, it felt like gold. I just smiled through the whole thing and then wanted more!

Pavarotti

Great doco on the great man, no holds barred, it shows his more challenging sides, but really he is a gentle giant with a superb gift. It is not just about his gift, the music, but also about his private life and his family. Loads of other musicians chip in their experiences with the great man.  My favourite story was when Pav was doing his duets album and he wanted Bono, but Bono was busy recording a U2 album. Pav was very persistent and quite cheeky until Bono had to say yes. This doco made me laugh and smile, but when he sings, goosebumps and tears. If you love music, this is a super important one to watch.

Ennio the maestro

Another great music documentary about the amazing soundtrack maestro, Ennio Morricone. This traces his start in classical music, how he got into soundtracks and the movies, and his work process. This is like watching a genius sail through life, what a gift. A remarkable story and film.

George Michael: portrait of an artist

Another great modern music doco. The more I think about George, the more I realise what a superb and genuine performer he was and how underrated he was. This showcases his talent and life, and will leave you in tears when you understand what we have lost.

Cannes Uncut

A behind the scenes doco on the Cannes Film Festival. How it started, and grew over the years. How it works, the celebs that appear, and the controversies over the years. A bit of fun and film gossip!!

New Wave: dare to be different

Whilst this was not the best doco, it was a lot of fun. Following the rise of early 80s, new wave bands and how some DJs let open the flood gates, when a lot of radio stations were not playing this new music, mostly from the UK and NYC.

Blackadder: a cunning story

This was such fun, a great look behind the entire Blackadder series, with loads of interviews from the actors and behind the scenes. What a talented group of people. Many funny anecdotes about key scenes and dialogue, often funnier than the actuality. It made me very nostalgic for the show itself. So much genius, one of those rare lightning in a bottle shows.

Jim Henson: idea man

Ron Howard's doco of the late, great Jim Henson is a masterpiece. A real in-depth look into the man and creator of The Muppets. Most people would love to be able to create a margin of what he created in his very short but remarkable life. This film will get you in all the feels, so much to smile and laugh at, so much to ponder, and a lot that will make you tear up.  Find it and watch it post-haste!

The Velvet Queen

A lovely animal doco about a Nationat Geographic photographer's quest to photograph the notorious snow leopard in Tibet. Lush white land surrounds of snow in the Tibetan mountains, set to a Nick Cave and Warren Ellis soundtrack, this is pure escapism. This doco really delivers.

Brats.

This doco about the BratPack from the 80s was pulled together and directed by Andrew McCarthy, It explores how each member of the so-called coped with this label. Some better than others, it would appear. McCarthy seems deeply scarred by the reference and understandably. At the height of his career, he could have been much more of an actor than he became, they all could have. The label strangled them in various ways.

This was a great walk down memory lane and it was lovely to see familiar faces, albeit some decades later. McCarthy's interview with the journalist who wrote the article is a pivotal point in the film, fascinating to me. This doco has received mixed reviews, but I really loved it. I have always been a fan of McCarthy, so it was nice to see him try and make sense of his past by reconnecting. The only downer, no Molly Ringwald, but I guess that was to be expected. Maybe there will be a part 2!

Lolla: the story of Lollapalooza

This was a short series about the history of Lollapalooza. With heaps of great interviews with those that participated and those that worked to pull the festival off, I was sucked right into this world. It also included a lot of interviews with Perry Farrell, the founder, who I love. He is quite the character and this really exposes that. If you love indie music, and ever wished you had attended Lollapalooza (whilst, not a big fan of festivals, this is one I would have loved to go to) this one if for you.

Stanley Tucci: searching for Italy S2

Stanley is back, suave as ever and exploring more parts of Italy and the food they make and eat. Do not watch this show on an empty stomach, the food is amazing! The people are delightful, the countryside breathtaking. Stanley is such a mensch, and loves his food. the episode where he brings his parents back to their hometown was wonderful. His Dad is an older version of him in every way. This is feel good TV as it's best.

The hospital: in the deep end 

I found this 3 part documentary very compelling. Three 'celebrity' figures go and work at St Vincent's hospital in Sydney. I use the term celebrity loosely here, as they are more than that and I would even suggest Samuel Johnson and Costa are National Treasures. I didn't know Melissa Leong but she seemed really lovely too. Each worked in various departments and it showed what we already know I guess. Hospital staff are true angels, angels that are overworked and need more funding. But the breadth and depth of what the three saw and were involved in made for incredibly moving and important viewing. Whilst ultimately uplifting, this was a tough watch.

What I've Been Listening To

McCartney: a life in lyrics

I finished listening to S2 of this great podcast. In each Paul and Paul Muldoon discuss a song, based on the book they wrote together of the same name. They are shortish eps by podcast standard, which is great, and they songs they discuss are not always the most well known which makes it even more interesting. McCartney always adds something you had never heard before to the episode, which given the amount of information out there is something else! My favourite was the final episode of the series, The End, about the song The End. It was lovely and fun.

Lloyd Cole and the Commotions Greatest Hits

This has been taking quite the spin on my turn table, upbeat and fun, a little melancholy and cerebral...that's Lloyd!

Pet Sounds by The Beach Boys

Got the new copy of this and it is an utter delight from beginning to end. A work of genius that features their greatest song, God Only Knows. Other faves from the album are I'm waiting for the day, Wouldn't it be nice, and Sloop John B.