A bildungsroman about beat era poet Allen Ginsberg in his formative college years.

From the iconoclastic John Zorn to a ‘drone metal’ trio head, here is a program not for the faint-hearted. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in

Sydney Festival unveils a program of diverse arts and eclectic collaborations.

It’s surprising how rarely Australian cinema takes on the Western. For a country with such a rich sense of place – and so many appropriate locations – it’s odd that the genre is so largely overlooked (often in favour of the kitchen sink). And so Mystery Road wends its way onto the screen as a welcome addition to the Australian cinematic landscape; following in some familiar footsteps, while also carving out a path of its own. The film unfolds in a languid series of vignettes as our taciturn protagonist, Detective Jay Swan (Aaron Pedersen), traverses his remote hometown investigating the death of  local Aboriginal girl. As Swan circles the dusty roads, each revolution brings him closer to his own past, and deeper into dangerous territory. Largely silent, Swan’s questioning brings him face to face with some brilliant and at times brutally tense cameos from Ryan Kwanten, David Field, Tasma Walton and Jack Thompson. Meanwhile, the effortlessly malevolent Hugo Weaving makes for a jocular antagonist in the form of a fellow cop with some secrets to protect. Where the film succeeds with its cast, it falters precariously with its pacing. And though Pedersen is a palpable presence, the film’s writer and…

Bring tissues, and be reminded to “relish this remarkable ride” we call life.

This brave, mind-bogglingly horrific documentary has had jaws dropping at various film festivals around the globe.

Sex addiction and group therapy may not seem like laughing matters, but Thanks for Sharing attempts to buck the angsty trend.

Inside the brilliant but often misunderstood Jacqueline du Pré; plus pianists Willems, Hough and Hewitt and our Aussie Festivals Guide. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in

True to its title, this film is a masterclass in storytelling.

Air travel is a rather tedious affair, but not so when you’re in the hands of Pedro Almodóvar.

Cate Blanchett is a force of nature in Woody Allen’s latest, which leaves viewers not knowing whether to laugh or cry.

A charming and visually appealing tale filled with energy, humour and heart - yet without a hint of sentimentality.