Canberra CityNews January 13-19 2011

CityNews January 13-19

CityNews January 13-19

news

Christine’s living in the material world MEGAN HAGGAN visits an Aladdin’s Cave of thousands of theatre costumes, and the remarkable woman who makes them

FROM the outside, dressmaker Christine Pawlicki’s garage looks like any other in her Monash street.

Inside, however, it’s a treasure trove of costumes – everything from the ruffle-sleeved Rio scene shirt from “The Boy From Oz”, to eight opulent gowns, specially designed and made for the Queen Elizabeth character in Andrew Hackwill’s “The Department of Heaven”, to vintage pieces snapped up in op-shops around the country.

A dressmaker for more than 30 years, Christine designs and sews costumes for not only local theatre companies, but also individuals and groups looking for the perfect fancy dress outfit.

“These are some of my absolute favourites,” says Christine, pulling out some of the Queen Elizabeth bodices, all of which have matching skirts: some of the fabrics involved have been with her for years, including offcuts from silk purchased at the now departed George’s International Fabrics in Bailey’s Corner 20 years ago; part of a school friend’s tutu; and fabric from her mother’s wardrobe.

“I usually just buy fabric I like and then get inspired,” she says.

“These are favourites, too,” pulling a couple of red and black tasselled flapper frocks out of the overstuffed rack.

“I have a lot of favourite pieces,”

INDEX January 13-19, 2011

Since 1993: Volume 17, Number 1

Arts&Entertainment Cinema Crossword Horoscope Letters News Property Retail Therapy Social Scene Sudoku

13-14 14 15 15 9 3-8 16-20 10-12 6 15

FRONT COVER: Drum teacher Kate Gascoyne. Story Page 4.

Photo by Silas

Correction: The Priory Gallery at Bingie, NSW, is closed on Mondays, not Sundays as reported in the summer edition.

she admits. “Really, anything from the Victorian era to the 1940s are what I absolutely love. Marilyn Monroe – I adore her and anything in that style.

“I’m an old-school dressmaker, and I’ve been sewing since I was three years old according to my mum,” Christine says. “I did my first professional job at 16 and I’ve been sewing ever since.

I think I’ve done everything under the sun and if someone wants something I don’t have, I make it!”

Not a centimetre of garage space is wasted: Its two rooms are tightly packed with not just racks and racks of everything from original mardi gras gowns to beautiful hand-made and embroidered vintage pieces, but stacks of storage containers as well.

There are headpieces, masks and accessories all in their places, not to mention her work table. It might look chaotic, but Christine knows exactly where everything is.

“My husband was a darling and let me have the garage. The car used to live here but now it’s where I do all my stuff,” she says.

“I actually tried to count all the costumes once and it didn’t work. With all the boxes and boxes the number would literally be in the thousands.

“I’m able to keep a lot of the costumes I’ve designed for production companies,

contact us

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Christine Pawlicki... “I’m an old-school dressmaker, and I’ve been sewing since I was three years old according to my mum.”

Photo by Silas like the Phoenix Players’ ‘The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas’. I make them fresh for the production and then I can hire them to companies or people. I’ve done headpieces for Moulin Rouge, outfits for dancing girls and I even had to make a ‘dead body’ once to get thrown around the stage like something out of ‘Weekend at Bernie’s’!

“One of my favourite pieces is a

dress I did for the Phoenix Players’ ‘Eurobeat’, a beautiful operatic style dress that the actress had to rip off very quickly.

“Then there are the Queen Elizabeth dresses. During my research I found that Queen Elizabeth I wore a different dress every single day after she was crowned – can you imagine all the work that would go into that? The character

came out on to the stage eight times, so we did eight dresses.”

Christine’s now looking forward to a couple of new shows, to be performed for the first time in Canberra next year.

“It’s great, because the show’s never been done before, so there are no rules with the costumes. You don’t have to follow or try and better what’s been done before.”

Editor: Ian Meikle, editor@citynews.com.au Political reporter: Eleri Harris, 0414 618493 eleri@citynews.com.au Lifestyle editor: Megan Haggan, lifestyle@citynews.com.au Journalist: Kathryn Vukovljak, kathryn@citynews.com.au Arts editor: Helen Musa, 0400 043764 helen@citynews.com.au Design and photography: Silas Brown, 0412 718086 Graphic designer: Louise Brooks Accounts manager: Bethany Freeman-Chandler accounts@citynews.com.au Distribution and circulation: Richard Watson, circulation@citynews.com.au

Responsibility for election comment is taken by Ian Meikle, of Suite 1, Level 1, 143 London Circuit, Canberra.

CityNews January 13-19

cover story

Kate’s powerful beat

Drummer Kate Gascoyne... “I’m 99 per cent teacher and one per cent drummer.” Photo by Silas COVER STORY

By Megan Haggan

KATE Gascoyne says she got “the drumming bug” during her first experience playing a West African djembe drum.

“I was shown something very simple and I was able to get right in there straight away and participate – it’s instant gratification,” she says.

“A lot of adults feel the same way. They can’t believe they’re participating in making music right away, on their first lesson.”

Kate started her business, Drum Effect, in 2006, inspired by the music of West Africa. She travelled to Ghana in 2008 to undertake intensive study of traditional drumming and dancing, and continues to study under master West African drummers.

Kate says that in West Africa, drumming, singing and dancing are all part of the one package – and it’s an all-community occasion.

“There’s lots of adults out there who decide to learn an instrument in adulthood, but generally the time, commitment and discipline required to master an instrument only happens as a child, when you’re having weekly lessons and you have a lot of time to practice.

“West African drumming is very accessible

in that right away, you can walk away having learned something and been able to participate; at the same time there’s a lot of scope for people to take it to a very expert level. I’m still constantly learning.”

Kate’s from a musical household: Her mother’s a music teacher, and Kate studied classical music throughout her childhood – “I got dragged along to piano lessons,” she laughs.

She’s formally trained as a primary school teacher. “To me, the art of teaching is engaging people, and I feel that’s what I do best,” she says.

“I’m 99 per cent teacher and one per cent drummer. I think Mum inspired that in me.

“The biggest thing I took away from West Africa was a real understanding of what it’s like to see traditional music in context, and the role it plays in the community.”

The closest Australian analogy Kate can find is the “Nutbush City Limits” or “Macarena”, as people automatically know what dance to do when these songs play.

“Now, imagine having a whole repertoire of music that you’re pretty much guaranteed everyone in the community knows,” she says.

Making music together can improve self-esteem, Kate says. “I do a lot of work with groups of disengaged people, people in women’s refuges and I’ve worked with Quamby and Galilee.”

More information at www.drumeffect.com.au

Australia Day’s got talent

Thirsty Merc, Jessica Mauboy and “Australia’s Got Talent” winners Justice Crew will be among a “fantastic and diverse” line-up for the Australia Day Live concert on Tuesday January 25, says Warren Pearson, CEO of the National Australia Day Council.

“These acts are some of Australia’s hottest talent, which is sure to draw a huge crowd to the event,” he says.

Warren says that Stan Walker and “X Factor” winner Altiyan Childs will also perform at the concert, joining Australian rock legend Ross Wilson, indie pop sensations Little Red, country music beauties The McClymonts and children’s favourites The Wiggles on the lawns of Parliament House on Australia Day Eve. “I encourage Canberrans to come down to the lawns of Parliament House to share in all the Australian spirit and excitement of the concert,” says Warren.

Celebrations will start at 6pm with the Australian of the Year awards, followed by the Wiggles at 7.15pm and the main concert from 8.30pm.

For more updates on the Australia Day Live concert, visit www.australiadaylive.org.au.

Jessica Mauboy... performing on the lawns.

CityNews January 13-19

CityNews January 13-19

scene

More photos at www.citynews.com.au

At the PM’s XI, Manuka Oval

Jonathon Day, John Hanna, Colin Thomas and Ron Bell

Peter Wilton, Robert Fisher and Jason Ters

Malcolm Pratt, Ian Cumming and Robert Chillman

Nathalie O'Toole and Monique Marek

Anthony Auth, Richard Farrell and Chris Medhurst

Valdis Luks, Clive Jones

Dion Brant, Chris Beattie and Rod Florence

Ian and Anne Coutts

Nathan Anderson, Zoe Dooker and Glen Anderson

Ross Barrett and Mile Petrevski

Craig Greenwood, Jen Large and Shane Watson

Poms win over PM’s XI Canberra’s finest turned out to watch England defeat the 2011 Prime Minister’s XI at Manuka Oval. The Australian team was younger, led by up-and-coming Tasmanian captain Tim Paine, but were beaten by England, who got to 223 with seven wickets to spare. Rain delayed play, men wore red Julia Gillard wigs, people dressed as nuns because they said Australia didn’t have a prayer, and there was a streaker. Funds raised from the match go to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.

At the PM’s XI... PM Julia Gillard flips the coin

Photos by Andrew Finch CityNews January 13-19

rolfe subaru

advertising feature

It’s all about customers, not only cars ROLFE Subaru is no run-of-themill car dealership, says dealer principal Greg Newman: for a start, the focus isn’t on the car.

“We have a customer focus, more than a car focus,” says Greg, who’s all set for one of only two sales that Rolfe Subaru holds each year.

“Subarus are cars that research-oriented people buy, and so they tend to already know a lot about vehicles.

“We’re proud that we try to be a consultative dealership, and form a good service relationship with our customers. Subaru has the highest loyalty of any make in Australia.

“We like to be there for our customers after they’ve taken delivery, not just selling the car

in the first place. So we have a state-of-the-art service operation as well: We’re a one-stop-shop, offering wheel alignments, tyres, other aftercare, finance and insurance.”

When vehicles are being serviced, Rolfe Subaru customers enjoy a courtesy bus which can take them “anywhere in the ACT and Queanbeyan”, and which brings them back to the dealership in the afternoon to pick up the car.

“We’re also proud of the fact that we’re Canberra’s only locally-owned Subaru franchise.”

The Rolfe name has been associated with the local motor industry since 1973, and Greg has been at the Subaru dealership since it opened its doors in August 1997. He says that its points of difference and customer focus are of huge importance to Subaru.

“Subaru has a high-performance division:

the STi division. There’s only 13 STi authorised franchises in Australia, so it’s quite a select group, and the decision comes from Japan as to which dealerships are able to be STi franchises. We’re the only one in the ACT.” Subaru offers STi franchises only to those dealers it believes are at the pinnacle of professionalism and service.

Despite the focus on the customer, the car is, of course, an important consideration, and Greg says that Subarus are particularly well-suited to Canberrans.

“Canberra and Hobart share the highest Subaru market share in Australia, because of our proximity to the snow and the coast, and every single Subaru is all-wheel drive,” he says.

“This is first and foremost an active safety feature rather than an off-road feature, though it does double as an off-road feature in some vehicles.

“Every Subaru has a five-star ANCAP safety rating. The all-wheel drive system combined with a Boxer engine, and the fact that all our vehicles have extra features like Data Dot Security – a system where all the parts of the car are sprayed with tiny data dots with the vehicle’s identification number – make a Subaru a really intelligent choice.”

Rolfe Subaru is holding its half-yearly sale on the weekend of January 15-16, with a clearance of 2010 vehicles.

“Selected cars will have free on-road costs, another two years’ warranty and $750 worth of accessories. We can offer much more of a special than we can during the rest of the year.”

Rolfe Subaru is at 142 Melrose Drive, Phillip.

More information at www.rolfesubaru.com.au or 6208 4333.

Rolfe Subaru dealer principal Greg Newman...

“We’re proud that we try to be a consultative dealership, and form a good long-term relationship with our customers.”

CityNews January 13-19

news

Speaking out on a mother’s silent hell

By Megan Haggan A NEW baby is a cause for joy – so when new parents are affected by post or antenatal depression, it can be hard for those around them to understand.

“It’s still a taboo subject in Canberra,” says Megan O’Hehir, who is also the executive assistant for a large government agency.

“You can read as many books on parenting as you like, but nothing’s going to prepare you for the reality of what parenthood will be like. And if you’re already unsure and scared, and don’t know that it’s okay to feel that way, you try and push it aside because you don’t want anyone to see how you feel – and that’s when the trouble starts. It’s absolutely distressing.

“For a lot of mothers, admitting that something’s not quite right is the first and scariest part of it all, because everyone sees a new baby as beautiful – they think that as a new mother, who doesn’t feel that?

“So it’s hard to admit even to yourself that you can look at your new baby and not feel that bond. You feel isolated, that you can’t tell anyone.”

Megan says that as a new mum, she found the societal pressure to excel at motherhood unbearable.

“I felt like I had to be a well-groomed, calm and in-control mother who took it all in her stride, had a perfect home and perfect children. But underneath

CityNews January 13-19

Megan O’Hehir with son James and daughter Caitlin... “You feel isolated, that you can’t tell anyone.” the surface, that just wasn’t the case. I was very frustrated and very unsure, and not comfortable with my role as a mother.

“I didn’t feel that connection with my son right away – I just thought, ‘what do I do now?’. I hated breastfeed-

ing, though I did it because it’s what you’re pushed to do, and it was only after four bouts of mastitis, crying all the time and not being able to express milk that I finally decided I couldn’t do it, put my son on formula and nothing bad happened to him!”

Photo by Silas

Megan says that the lack of family support, particularly inter-generational support, in modern society plays a role in undermining new parents’ confidence. This may be particularly relevant to Canberrans who don’t have family in the ACT.

She says she believes that even in some hospitals, procedures aren’t in place to help parents at risk of PND. “When I had my second child, it was in my notes that I’d had PND before, but I was still released without it being looked into. I probably could have had treatment a lot quicker had it been taken into account.”

PANDSI has released a booklet aimed at explaining PND to parents, and setting out the services it offers, which include a drop-in service; a walking group; information sessions for partners which discuss caring for themselves, their partners and families; information referral and a telephone support program.

“We want to empower women to be able to say when something’s not quite right.

“Canberra’s quite unique in that we have these services, which aren’t all offered in other places around Australia.

“I really put my recovery down to PANDSI,” Megan says. “I’d be waiting by my phone every fortnight for my catch-up with someone from PANDSI, to talk to someone who wasn’t judging me was wonderful.

“People need to understand that PND does happen, it’s quite common and it’s not a function of whether or not you’re a good mother.”

More information at www.pandsi.org or 6287 3961 (Monday to Thursday).

letters DAVID Still disagrees (CN, December 23) with my suggestion to shame drivers who have recorded DUIs by appropriately noting their registration plate.

I’ve been driving for 62 years in seven countries without a road traffic offence of any kind.

So even condescendingly David, you may see me, in your words, as one who works hard to keep our roads safe? No moral superiority here, David. I would willingly drive a relative’s or good friend’s car so noted because I see it as a good Samaritan act – dusted with a touch of humility – towards my neighbour on the road.

Safe driving.

Beware the ‘loonies’

IT never ceases to amuse me how these globalwarming “loonies’” keep saying that the polar ice caps are going to melt and the sea levels are going to rise. Well, have a good look all around the world of late and see the actual amount of rain that has flooded and is still flooding. Let alone the snow that has fallen, and will melt and turn back into water. Hell will freeze over before the sea levels raise enough to cause any concern.

Get a life, you fools. Stop being led by your noses by the likes of Al Gore and his tax-grabbing gaggle of thieves.

Colliss Parrett, Barton

Keith Davis, St Marys, NSW

dose of dorin

CityNews January 13-19

retail therapy

advertising feature

Everyone needs a little therapy, right now!

IT’S summer, the festive season is over and done with and sales are in full flow – it’s a good time to shop ‘til you drop! Here’s the “CityNews” guide to some of the best in retail therapy in Canberra, from sexy shoes, bling jewellery and summer clothes to gym equipment. Everyone needs a little retail therapy at this time of year!

Summer’s happy feet JANUARY is the perfect time to relax and enjoy a spot of retail therapy, says Gail Lubbock, from Escala Shoes in Manuka.

“For 49 weeks of the year, our time is taken up with being busy; then holiday time is a lovely time to catch up with ourselves and what’s happening in the world of retail.

“People are relaxed and have more time to engage in conversation, to have a fun time.”

That air of relaxation is reflected in consumer trends in January: Gail says that at this time of year, many customers want fashionable footwear that’s a pleasure to wear.

“People aren’t looking for such a high heel. They’re more interested in comfortable widths, and a wider strap on sandals: it’s easy for the foot to become swollen when it’s hot, and just like you don’t want a lot of clothing clinging to you in that weather, you don’t want your shoes biting into you, either.”

Escala is on Bougainville Street, Manuka. Call 6232 7666.

Sybella Universe drop earrings, $169, from Devine Goddess.

Lupo red bag, $779 from Escala.

Long necklace, Swarovski, $149, from Devine Goddess.

Nautical necklace, $89, from Devine Goddess.

Bling is big Silene red, yellow and taupe shoe, $365, from Escala.

THE only time it’s not ideal to wear jewellery is at the beach – “the last thing you want is to lose a precious piece of bling bling!” says Leane Belmonte from Devine Goddess – the rest of the time, a contemporary piece of jewellery is a must for finishing an outfit, she says.

This summer the biggest trend is towards the vintage look: Statement pieces where size really matters, and bigger is better.

Designer Peter Lang is a great example, says Leane: His vintage-look pieces, inspired by art deco, encapsulate the look.

Devine Goddess is in the Canberra Centre.

Junk beige “Ruffle” short, $59, from Ellory Lane.

Lilian red/white shoe, $319, from Escala.

Pink Stitch blush “Cyclone” dress, $89.95, from Ellory Lane.

Spicy Sugar emerald “Playful” jumpsuit, $55, from Ellory Lane.

Lots of lovely layers TRANS-seasonal pieces which help us make fashion sense out of this summer’s odd weather are tipped to be the hottest choices for January, according to Ellory Lane’s Irene Pavlovic.

“We haven’t had the greatest weather this summer, and so fashion will go into transseasonal pieces that will take us through the weather we’re having at the moment and into autumn,” she says. “That means lots of layers.”

It’s the perfect time to shop for summer specials and layering options, she says. “It’s quieter than December, and you can get around without getting bowled over by other people rushing around for Christmas!

“It’s a good time to get summer clothes at a good price, and to actually spend some money on yourself.”

Ellory Lane is in the Canberra Centre. More information on 0410 885 311.

Winners

super premium summer dozen Congratulations to Pam Glover, of Gunning, who has won a mixed dozen of Lerida super premium wines valued at $200.

Happy New Year to all our readers 10 CityNews January 13-19

CityNews January 13-19 11

retail therapy

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All about Canberra

12 CityNews January 13-19

Fitness: A personal choice THE key to improving our fitness is finding a mode of exercise we enjoy, says Troy Roughley, manager of Gymquip in Fyshwick – there’s much more to it than simply purchasing a piece of equipment.

January’s a busy time for Gymquip, which provides a wide range of gym and exercise equipment to consumers and businesses: with so many New Year’s resolutions underway, many Canberrans are indulging in a bit of fitness-oriented retail therapy.

“You have to pick something you like to do,” says Troy. “For example, somebody came in the other day and asked what the best piece of equipment was for losing weight.

“The answer to that is a rowing

advertising feature machine, but the real question is: Is that the right piece of equipment for you? Some people think they’re great; I personally don’t like using them, so I wouldn’t buy one simply because it burns calories effectively.

“We help people buy something they’re going to use. We’re a specialist equipment supplier in fitness equipment: We don’t do clothing or shoes, just a massive range of personal training equipment.

“There’s so many options out there when it comes to fitness, from new diets to a new, different way to train: my advice is to decide what works for you, and stick with it. People shouldn’t get confused by the options, but choose the one that will suit them, and stick with that option.”

Gymquip is on Ipswich Street, Fyshwick.

Call 6280 4447.

arts&entertainment

Snapper’s sharp eye from the sky

By Helen Musa FIRST prize winner in the PX3 Prix de la Photographie Paris, David Flanagan, is back at the to X Gallery in Bungendore for his fourth solo exhibition.

Born and bred in Canberra, Flanagan graduated from CIT in 2005 and held his first solo exhibition “Watermark” at X Gallery in 2006. Flanagan takes his inspiration from the late American aerial photographer William Garnett and Italian landscape photographer Franco Fontana and brings this to bear on Australian landscapes.

Critic Robert McFarlane wrote that “it was clear this talented young Australian photographer had already mastered the abstract (and sometimes anthropomorphic) forms that emerge when

landscape is seen from altitude”. The works on show at the X Gallery illustrate this perfectly.

The show comprises the best of Flanagan’s work from his Blue Mountains and outback SA folios as well as new work from Lake George and the Snowy Mountains. The works are all handprinted, fibre-based silver gelatin prints. Flanagan favours traditional photographic techniques and says: “It is the slower, more measured creative journey, requiring a greater hands-on approach that gives a satisfaction I don’t get sitting in front of a computer.”

“Lake George Aerial”

“Selected Works 2006-2010”, X Gallery, 32 Gibraltar Street, Bungendore, Friday to Monday 11am-5pm until January 31.

“Davenport Ranges Aerial”

Norm’s fairytale job By arts editor Helen Musa YOU have to wonder about the psychological effect of playing a candlestick, but that’s exactly what American actor Norm Ofstead does in the “Disney Live!” show coming to Canberra, January 18-19.

He gets to play Lumière, the loyal servant of the Beast in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” who gets turned into a candelabra for 10 years until Belle breaks the evil spell. But more of that later.

In this show, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald and Goofy find a mysterious storybook and start reading. Within the pages they find three classic fairy tales, “Beauty and the Beast”, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and “Cinderella”.

There won’t be too many surprises in the actual stories, which follow the Disney films, but young audience members will definitely get more than they bargained for, as this is an interactive show where audience

Belle from “Beauty and the Beast” in “Disney Live!”

members are invited, pantomimestyle, to help solve clues, clap and sing the songs.

Producer Alana Feld has no doubt what it’s all about – “good family fun”. And the common thread?

“Dreams really do come true.”

Although Ofsted has been on stage since he was a second grader playing in “Pinocchio”, he doesn’t see himself as a dancer, but has made himself good enough to be able to dance larger ensemble scenes.

He’s been with “Disney Live!”

“Mickey’s Magic Show” and “Disney Live! Three Classic Fairy Tales” since 2007, but before that worked in Disney theme parks and in “Festival of the Lion King”.

He’ll be in Australia on an eightcity tour. It may be hard work, but it’s also a fairytale job. And yes, he does have a big showstopper – he sings the favourite number “Be My Guest,” where the entire laid dining table comes to life.

Ausdance’s annual ACT Master School of Dance is at Gorman House from January 17-21 and features jazz-funk-hip-hop with Ilona Fabiszewski and Theatre Jazz with Penny Mullen, as well as classical, contemporary, contact improvisation and Pilates. More information at 6247 9103.

CityNews January 13-19 13

arts&entertainment

Grimm story turns to schmaltz cinema

Dougal Macdonald

Rapunzel is voiced

by Mandy Moore in Disney’s “Tangled”.

“Tangled” (PG) AT a reputed cost of US$260million, “Tangled”, the latest from Disney’s 82 years of animated movies telling classic stories to kids who probably haven’t read them, doesn’t tell the Rapunzel story that the brothers Grimm wrote.

The crone Gothel, preserving her youthful appearance using a unique flower with special powers, steals newborn Princess Rapunzel (voiced by Mandy Moore) and immures her atop a secret tower.

On the eve of Rapunzel’s 18th birthday, Gothel sings a cynical song about mother love and re-states the reasons why the child must never venture out. Gothel’s real motive is to preserve access to the rejuvenating power of Rapunzel’s golden hair which by now is long enough to reach the ground from the tower balcony.

The handsome bandit Flynn (Zachary Levi), fleeing from the royal guards after stealing the crown, discovers the tower and its pretty occupant. Together they go into the kingdom where they have many adventures.

Love conquers all, world-class bitch Gothel gets what she deserves and the king and queen are real chuffed.

It’s pure Disney schmaltz, hubristic cultural hegemony at its most flagrant. Its only authentic components are Rapunzel’s hair and the catchphrase, “Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your hair”. Sitting among kindergarten kids who laughed at the film’s sight gags, enjoyed the action moments and ignored the sad bits, I mourned its insult to tradition.

At all cinemas

“Morning Glory” (M) FIGURING out how to work the cruder meaning of this film’s title into this review became less of a problem when I realised that it’s not an issue that arises in this serio-comic lampooning of breakfast TV (the most enduring form of reality TV).

Producer Becky (Rachel McAdams), fired from one breakfast show, eventually gets hired for a trial as executive producer of another. She makes a prickly start with long-time anchor-woman Colleen (Diane Keaton), fires the self-opinionated male anchor and headhunts crusty curmudgeon Mike (Harrison Ford), winner of every TV news reporting award in the world, to replace him.

Roger Michell’s film caricatures the internal anatomy of breakfast shows everywhere as a platform for examination of the film’s lesser issue – should they be entertainment or news? The conclusion is the no-

Rachel McAdams plays breakfast show producer Becky in “Morning Glory”.

14 CityNews January 13-19

brainer you might expect – an each-way bet.

The dominant issue turns out to be the humanisation of Mike. Becky and Mike tread some bumpy paths searching for a solid professional friendship. Becky has a passionate thing with another producer. And on the top management floor, Jerry (Jeff Goldblum) is watching the ratings.

Aline Brosh McKenna’s screenplay loads McAdams with a volubility that many may find exasperating. But as Becky and Mike lock horns about what’s best for the show, it has a point.

The breakfast show we watch at our place is newsfocused. And its presenters make it pretty entertaining.

At all cinemas

“Unstoppable” (M)

EXCEPT when diverted from its main narrative track by family issues facing its two principal male characters, Tony Scott’s spectacular railway disaster movie’s tensions deliver as powerful an adrenalin rush as any in cinema history.

Southbound 777 is hauling 37 wagons including seven carrying HazMat on a track that runs through Stanton, Pa. (pop. 750K+) where a curved viaduct has a 15mph speed limit. So what? Well, 777 has no driver aboard, its locomotive’s brakes are not connected to the consist and their throttles have crept from idle to full.

Veteran driver Frank (Denzel Washington) and rookie conductor Will (Chris Pine) have left Stanton northbound on 1206 pulling five more wagons than a crossing loop can store. Traffic controller Connie (Rosario Dawson) has to use all her training and personal skills to avoid a disaster not only to company property, but also to towns along the route.

This is a heady action brew with sound that physically shakes the auditorium. While rail fans may sneer at its depiction of operating practices, “Unstoppable” delivers a rollicking ride in the face of the adversities in Mark Bomback’s screenplay and a powerful reminder that few machines exert more energy than a fully-loaded freight train.

At all cinemas

your week in the stars

With Joanne Madeline Moore. January 17-23

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

On Thursday, watch out for Full Moon fiascos involving high-spirited housemates or irrational relatives. Just when you thought you had a loved one worked out, they’ll turn around and surprise you. Sunday is a fabulous day, as Jupiter jumps into your sign (which happens every 12 years). Make the most of lucky opportunities that come your way.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

With mighty Mars now in your career zone (until February 23) it’s time to assume a leadership role and initiate changes at work. How do you persuade others? With a magical mix of confidence and charm! Many Bulls will be in a jolly and generous mood on Full Moon Thursday, as you chat and communicate; plus mix and mingle.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Don’t rush Twins – approach tasks carefully and thoughtfully.

Take on board the wise words of birthday great, Benjamin Franklin: “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”

Have you over-indulged in a summer holiday spending spree?

Thursday’s Full Moon stirs up your money zone, so your financial chickens are heading home to roost!

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Cancerians are usually cautious creatures. But this week, the Full Moon and Jupiter encourage you to crawl out of your crab cave and do something adventurous and daring. You’re not in the mood for superficial encounters on Saturday, as you connect with others on a deeper emotional level. Sunday’s the time for some frivolous fun.

general knowledge crossword No. 294

Across

Down

4 What designates a soldier assigned to an officer as a servant?

7 Name another term for a slaughterhouse.

8 To be beyond the bounds of normal knowledge is to be what?

9 What is another word for a relative?

11 What is a passage taken out of a book or the like?

13 Name an alternative term for a corpse.

15 What is a hybrid between the tangerine and the pomelo?

17 What is the more familiar name for otalgia?

20 Which SA city is said to be named after the wife of William IV? 23 Having no musical key is to be what?

24 What do we call a racehorse, etc, not included among the favourites?

25 Name the males of the honey bee.

1 What, in France, is a courtesy title for any ecclesiastic?

2 Name the capital of Canada.

3 What is one who practises yoga?

4 Name the only mainland borough of New York City.

5 What is a colloquial term for the heart?

6 Name a cumulative bet (3,2).

9 What is a cookery formula?

10 Name the unit of magnetic field strength.

12 What is the seat occupied by a sovereign?

14 What is a powerful gun for firing explosive shells?

16 To get something for nothing is to get it how?

18 Name a more readily known term for a Thespian.

19 What do we call the radiances surrounding the heads of sacred personages?

21 What are common newts in their land stage?

22 Name another word for an affair of honour.

Solution next week 1

2

3

4

6

7

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

Are you sick and tired of being single? With gung-ho Mars in your relationship zone, the only way you’ll find lasting love is by being proactive. It’s time for lonely Lions to make the first move!

If you are attached, give your partner plenty of space. On the weekend, someone tells you something in confidence but can a loud-mouth Leo keep a secret?

5

8 9

10 11

12

13

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

Thursday’s Full Moon lights up your hopes and wishes zone, so reach for the stars and set goals for the future. Be inspired by Dolly Parton (born on Jan 19): “I wake up with new dreams every day.” You’re in the mood to get things done on the weekend, as the Moon visits Virgo – but don’t drive everyone crazy with your fussy, fastidious ways!

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

Nurture your professional contacts. With nifty networking, you’ll take your career up to the next level in 2011. If you are looking for a job, lucky opportunities will come through personal recommendations from family and friends. Singles – this year you could fall for someone while travelling, or link up with a lover from another country or culture.

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

14 17

15

18

16

19 20

21

22

23 24 25

Sudoku medium No.48

Solution next week

Avoid getting stuck in a Scorpio rut. The Full Moon activates your adventure zone, so it’s time to jump out of your comfort zone and take some calculated risks. Be motivated by birthday great Muhammad Ali: “He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.” Laying guilt trips on loved ones will get you nowhere fast.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Prepare for a positive and passionate week as the Full Moon jump-starts your mojo, and then Jupiter (your ruling planet) charges into fellow-fire sign Aries. You’ll be firing on all cylinders, as you approach life and love with extra energy and enthusiasm. The weekend is all about expanding your circle of friends and tapping into your creativity.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

It will be a gigantic juggle to get the balance right between your competing responsibilities this week. And Thursday’s Full Moon brings unresolved romantic issues to a head. Keep calm and don’t lose your Capricorn cool! Jupiter visits your domestic zone (from January 23 until June 4) which will help heal a rocky family relationship.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

With dynamic Mars now barnstorming through your sign, you need to be more proactive as you approach life with plenty of passion and purpose. Challenges are there to stimulate your senses and spur you on! If you are bored with your current image, it’s also the ideal time for a much-needed makeover via a hot new hairstyle and an updated wardrobe.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

How well do you really know your best mates? Friendships are highlighted on Thursday, as the Full Moon shines a spotlight on flaws within a close relationship. Be selective about who you mix with this week, as you’ll pick up people’s negative moods like a sponge. When it comes to children and teenagers, let your intuition be your guide.

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2011.

Solutions

Crossword No.293 P R I S O O I B O P E E K G A S P E C O O C O R R I X O G Y R A T G S V E S T M N S

N E P O T I S M I D E S

F B P I L O G F X B E L I S N N T E G E O A A L S L I T T N G I A R R I N T E E L D E

Sudoku hard No.47 B U E N K S E R S

L E A V E E R S

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