Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2012 - Page 43
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Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer
Radio Confidential: 2012 ratings analysis .... Page 46 Country Crossroades: Rob Foenander reports .. Page 46 New Book: Christopher Martin’s music ................. Page 47 Jim and Aaron: Best movies, DVDs for Christmas ...... Page 48 Cheryl Threadgold: Shows, auditions, and a review ...... Page 49 PLUS THE LOVATT”S MEGA CROSSWORD
ROMEO AND JULIET Big night for ELT
● Jennifer Piper, Bryan Richardson, Ben Mitchell, and Xavier Ryan in Eltham Little theatre’s awardwinning production of Moonlight and Magnolias. ■ Last week’s edition of the Melbourne Observer included a full list of the Victorian Drama League Awards. See www. melbourneobserver.com.au Cheryl Threadgold notes: Congratulations to Eltham Little Theatre on their wonderful success at this year’s Victorian Drama League Awards. The company received five nominations and four awards for their production of Moonlight And Magnolias. These include: Best Set Design: Phil Holmes Best Lighting Design: Campbell Black and Terese Maurici Ryan Best Sound: Andrea Cole Best Actress in a Minor Role: Jennifer Piper (winner) Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy: Ben Mitchell Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy: Bryan Richardson (winner) Best Actor in a Comedy: Xavier Ryan (winner) Best Director, Comedy: Terese Maurici Ryan Best Comedy Production (winner)
Media Briefs ■ Nine Entertainment made a $972 million loss for the financial year ending June 30, taking its total accumulated losses to more than $2.5 billion. ■ Nicole Bland has become the Deputy Program Director at 3AW. Kate Stevenson steps up as Senior Producer for the Ross Stevenson-John Burns breakfast program. Tom Andronas is second Producer. ■ Veteran TV newsreader Brian Henderson, 81, will come out of retirement temporarily to narrate a documentary about the 1977 Granville train disaster. Some 83 people died in the disaster. ■ Rupert Murdoch last week met with Herald & Weekly Times senior editors, ahead of yesterday’s memorial service for Dame Elisabeth Murdoch at St Paul’s Cathedral.
Carols at Beaumaris ■ The 36th Beaumaris Christmas Carols will be presented on Christmas Eve, (Monday, Dec. 24) from 7.45pm to 9.30pm at the Beaumaris Community Centre, Reserve Rd, Beaumaris, compered by Roger Wilson. This much-loved annual event includes community carol singing, performances from the Southern Area Concert Band (conducted by Darryn Wright), the Accent Suzuki Singers (conducted by Katrina Pezzimenti), Geoff Hinde and the MLOC Choir. Families are invited to bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawns. The event will re-locate inside the Community Centre if weather is inclement. Donations will help defray costs of candles and carol books, with proceeds going to the Christmas Bowl Appeal. Enquiries: 0418 395 946
In the Cathedral
● Jamieson Caldwell as Romeo and Madeleine Field as Juliet ■ We know it is summer in Melbourne when the wonderful outdoor plays in the Botanic Gardens swing into action. The Australian Shakespeare Company is back again, and the evening production is Shakespeare's romantic drama Romeo And Juliet. ASC Artistic Director Glenn Elston has decided to incorporate music this year, and composer and singer Paul Norton has created what Elston says is a compelling soundtrack to go with the legendary story. "Music is universally powerful, something everyone an relate to. It will elevate the story, intensifying the terrible battles, tinkering and teasing at the market place and joyously celebrating at the party with the players," Elston explains. Much depends on the casting of the two leads, and Elston has cast two young and vibrant actors in the key roles - Jamieson Caldwell will become Romeo, while 18-year-old newcomer Madeleine Field will play Juliet. Fresh out of Canterbury Girls' Secondary College, where she was bitten by the acting bug after roles in major school productions, Madeleine is waiting on her Year 12 results before taking a gap year to travel in Europe before university. Madeleine is thrilled to be playing one of Shakespeare's biggest female roles, and she said she loves the challenge of Shakespeare. "It's such an exciting role to be playing, and a big step into professional theatre for me," she said. But being involved in theatrical productions in the Botanic Gardens isn't new for Madeleine - it's just that this is the first time she has been on the other side of the grass. "As a child, going to the shows in the Botanic Gardens every summer was such a big part of Melbourne for me, so getting to step up and actually perform under the stars in one of the productions is an absolute thrill for me,' the excited teenager explained. Australian Shakespeare Company productions are always a lot of fun, and a great way to introduce children to theatre without grumpy people telling them to sit still and be quiet as mice. But don't forget to pack your picnic, your bubbles, blankets or cushions to sit on and those essentials for dusk in a Melbourne summer - hats and insect repellent! Romeo And Juliet runs from December 20 to March 9 in the Royal Botanic Gardens. www.shakespeareaustralia.com.au, Ticketmaster 136 100 or 8676 7511. - Julie Houghton
J R Ewing laid to rest ■ J.R. Ewing, the character played by the late Larry Hagman, will be laid to rest in the eighth episode of the rebooted season of Dallas, to air in the US in March, reports David Knox at TV Tonight.
● Siobhan Stagg ■ Following sell-out performances last year of the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic's two Carols In The Cathedral concerts, this year there will be three concerts so that nobody has to be turned away. As well as the traditional 8pm concerts on Friday and Saturday (December 21-22) at St Paul's Cathedral, there will also be a matinee at 3pm on Saturday (Dec. 22). Carols In The Cathedral is a concert of traditional Christmas music, offset by readings and reflections, making it a real Christmas showcase in the atmospheric surrounds of St Paul's. There will be the usual majestic fanfares, angelic descants and stirring carols that the audience always sings along with enthusiastically, which is a spine-tingling effect when a thousand voices are raised in song in the fine cathedral acoustics. This is also a very special Carols In The Cathedral, as it may be the last time for a few years that Melburnians have the chance to hear young soprano Siobhan Stagg, a local girl who is making it big on the international opera circuit. Siobhan has returned briefly from Wales to sing for the RMP, before she takes on a full 2013, which includes a contract with Berlin's Deutsche Oper, singing in Wagner's Ring Cycle for Sir Simon Rattle, and some work at New York's Metropolitan Opera House. Joining Siobhan is the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic Choir and Brass and Percussion, Melbourne University Choral Society, the Australian Children's Choir and harpist Jacinta Dennett. Pianists Amir Farid and Stefan Cassomenos, organist Jonathan Bradley and readers Roland Rocchiccioli and Julie Houghton will add their talents to make this an evening of music in the true Christmas spirit. RMP Chief Conductor Andrew Wailes is conducting all three concerts and is passionate about the way Melbourne takes the Carols concerts to it heart. The program includes the traditional English and Australian favourite carols, and Siobhan singing This Christmastide (Jessye's Carol) which was written for the great soprano Jessye Norman, and O Holy Night. The Australian Children's Choir will get the concert off to a good start with their beautiful Once In Royal David's City as it processes the aisle. If you want your own cupful of the joy of Christmas, buy a ticket for Carols In The Cathedral with the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic at St Paul's Cathedral, cnr Swanston and Flinders Sts, Melbourne. Bookings: ticketmaster.com.au or 136 100. Enquiries: 0427 028 096
Page 44 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2012
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 19, 2012 - Page 45
Page 46 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Observer Showbiz
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Radio Confidential News from stations from around Victoria
3AW WINS 2012 RATINGS
Country Crossroads
SACKED DERRYN HINCH WINS HIS TIMESLOT
info@country crossroads.com.au ● Big Breakfast Show. Southern FM 88.3. Tues. 6am-9am. ● Country Crossroads. Casey Radio 97.7. Wed. 10pm-12 Midnight
Rotary ‘OB’ on WBC
■ Radio Confidential knows of a number of Melbourne overnight radio listeners who have switched from 3AW and 774 ABC to Golden Days Radio 95.7FM (also streaming at goldendaysradio.com) Station President Larry James says the station has introduced an automated time call on the hour overnight so that listeners know exactly what time it is.
Rob Foenander
ACOUSTIC HARMONY TOUR
■ The McClymonts - this year's ARIA Best Country Album winners - have announced details for their Acoustic Harmony Tour that will kick off in Tamworth on Thursday January 24. For a limited season, Brooke, Samantha and Mollie will present a one-off series of very special intimate shows. The sisters will commence their Melbourne concerts on Fri day,April 12, at the Matthew Flinders Hotel, Chadstone.
TAYLOR SHATTERS RECORD
■ Country music star Taylor Swift has shattered a 48-yearold Billboard chart record with a stint of nine weeks at number one for her latest single We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together Again. The single, from Taylor's triple-platinum selling album Red, is also a monumental pop hit, topping Billboard's Hot 100 chart, iTunes charts around the globe, and selling more than 2.6 million downloads in the US.
TOYOTA BACKS TAMWORTH
■ Toyota Australia has announced naming rights for next months Tamworth Country Music Festival. "The two great Australian icons will celebrate 20 years of partnership," according to the official media release. "The partnership is an invaluable step forward for the two entities who have supported, grown and nurtured country music together since 1993," the release said.
GOLFERS GOP COUNTRY
■ This year's Jack Newton Celebrity Classic will have a distinct country flavour with a number of well known artists entertaining during the event. Toyota Star Maker winners Luke Austen and Luke Dickens will play at the traditional Welcome BBQ while ARIA and Golden Guitar nominee McAlister Kemp and Matt Ross will also entertain during the final night awards presentation. - Rob Foenander ■ Cirque Du Soleil will premiere OVO under its Big Top at Docklands on Thursday, January 17, at 8pm.
r Observbei z Show
● Derryn Hinch ■ The 3AW ‘Drive’ program hosted by Derryn Hinch won its timeslot in the eighth and final radio ratings survey results announced last week. Hinch gathered an audience 12.7 per cent of those listening in the 4pm-7pm timeslot, with Fox scoring 12.6 per cent. In overall station ratings, measured 5.30am-12 Midnight, Mondays-Sundays, the station ratings were: 3AW, 15.0. ABC 774, 11. 6. Fox FM, 9.5. Nova, 7.5. Mix, 7.1. Gold, 6.7. MMM, 6.2. Magic, 6.0. JJJ, 5.2. Smooth 91.5, 4.9. SEN, 4.3. Radio National, 2.7. ABC FM, 2.5. Newsradio, 1.6. Ross Stevenson and John Burns (3AW) scored 19.4 in the ‘breakfast’ time slot which Nielsen measures over the 5.30am-9am time period. Red Symons (ABC 774) was closest with 11.7 per cent. Neil Mitchell (3AW) won his timeslot with 17.0 per cent, with Jon Faine (ABC 774) closest with 13.3 per cent. Denis Walter (3AW) won the afternoon slot, which is measured Noon-4pm with 12.1 per cent. Fix was next with 10.2. The evening timeslot (meaured 7pm-Midnight)was won by 3AW’s 8pm-Midnight program, Nightline, hosted by Bruce Mansfield and Philip Brady with 12.6. ABC 774 had 10.8 per cent.
Overnight alternative
● 3WBC FM presenter Brian Bloomer with Japanese ambassadorial scholar Chinatsu Endo ■ The Rotary and Community Service Show, which is broadcast on community radio station 3WBC 94.1FM, conducted an outside broadcast from the Kristkindl Festival in Maling Rd, Canterbury. The program was hosted by Brian Bloomer and David Proud,and featured guests from the Rotary Club of Canterbury, Box Hill Lions Club; the Burke and Beyond healthy lifestyle group, Rotary Club of Melbourne Park and the Rotary Club of Mont Albert and Surrey Hills.
Radio briefs ■ Will Alan Pearsall’s Melbourne overnight program on 3AW be networked to interstate stations? The Sydneybased John Kerr has announced his retirement. Mike Williams is leaving opposition 2GB Sydney after five years of producing and presenting. Mike presented the Weekend Overnight program. For many years he was also an overnight presenter on 2UE. Williams was heard on the ill-fated Melbourne Talk Radio during its short life. ■ The Australian Communications and Media Authority has announced that it will promptly investigate the 2-DAY FM ‘prank call’ episode. Nurse Jacintha Saldanha left a suicide note naming the two Sydney prank call DJs.
ChristmasFM.com
● Here is something a little different to sign off our Radio Confidential page for 2012 ... it is called ChristmasFM.com - an online radio station available on the internet. The Dublin-based station plays only Christmas songs, and is on air until Boxing Day (Dec. 26), and sends ‘cheerios’ for 1 Euro each. Melbourne
Observer
On This Day
Wednesday, Thursday, December 19 December 20
Saturday, Friday, December 21 December 22
■ English actor Sir Ralph Richardson was born in Cheltenham, England, in 1902. He died aged 80 in 1983. French singer Edith Piaf was born in Paris, France, in 1915. She died aged 47 in 1963. American actress Jennifer Beals is 49 (1963). Cricketer Ricky Ponting is 38.
■ American actress Jane Fonda is 76. US rock guitarist Frank Zappa was born in 1940. He died aged 52 in 1993. US actor Ray Romano is 55 (1957). Canadian actor Kiefer Sutherland is 46. US talk show host Phil Donahue is 77 (1935).
■ Former Australian Prime Minister Sir Robert Menzies was born in Jeparit in 1894. He died aged 83 in 1978. Actor and TV-radio presenter Noel Ferrier was born in Melbourne in 1930. He died aged 66 in 1997. TV presenter Ray Martin is 68 (1944).
● Larry James
■ US actress Barbara Billingsley (June Cleaver) was born in 1915. She died aged 94 in 2010. Radio and TV host Donnie Sutherland was born in Sydney in 1945 (67). Actor Simon Westaway is 54 (1958). Model Jennifer Hawkins was born in NSW in 1984 (28).
Monday, Sunday, December 23 December 24 ■ Australian singer Grace Knight was born in Scotland in 1955 (57). TV presenter Trisha Goddard was born in London in 1958 (54). Film executive J Arthur Rank was born in England in 1888. He died aged 83 in 1972. Voice man Harry Shearer is 69.
■ Christmas Eve. US actress Ava Gardner was born as Lucy Johnson in 1922. She died aged 67 in 1990. Latin American singer Ricky Martin is 41. Australian actor Danny Raco was born in Rome in 1979 (33). Cricketer Sir Colin Cowdrey was born in India in 1932. Died in 2000.
Thanks to GREG NEWMAN of the Birthday Bulletin for assistance with birthday and anniversary dates. Find out more at www.birthdaybulletin.com.au
Tuesday, December 25 ■ Christmas Day. Actor Humphrey Bogart was born in 1899. He died in 12957 (57). Cab Calloway, US band leader, was born in 1907. He died aged 86 in 1994. Singer Annie Lennox is 58. Actress Sissy Spacek is 63 (1949).
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2012 - Page 47
ShowBiz!
Observer Showbiz
TV, Radio, Theatre Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour
IN THE MIDDLE OF MUSIC
Star Bursts André’s latest DVD ■ André Rieu's new DVD Home For Christmas has entered this week's UK Music Video chart at number 1. The program was recorded primarily at André’s home, a medieval castle in the Dutch town of Maastricht. Together with his orchestra, soloists and choir, André performs 26 holiday classics in his snowy decorated garden and the church across the street from his home. The repertoire ranges from traditional Christmas classics to emotional ballads. The DVD can be ordered through Amazon.com
Steve to call 3AW footy ■ Ten Network sports presenter Stephen Quartermaine is said to have joine dthe 3AW football commentary team.
Big money for Trade Me ■ Fairfax Media is reportedly selling its remaining 51 per cent stake in Trade Me, a New Zealand website, for around $650 million. Fairfax bought the online auction company from founder Sam Morgan and his fellow private investors for $700 million in 2006 and previously recouped $364 million by selling a 34 per cent stake
Hamish Blake marries ■ FOX FM's Hamish Blake has wed his long-time girlfriend, the writer Zoe Foster, in an intimate ceremony last week, on Blake's 31st birthday. The couple began dating after writing a dating guide together called Textbook Romance, announced the news on Twitter on Friday.
Listeners have their own control panel ■ 3AW listeners are speculating whether Australia Overnight co-host Mark Petkovic will pursue a career as a personal trainer, and leave the radio station. The listeners - who discuss the radio station daily at a Facebook discussion group - say that Petkovic has recently qualified as a personal trainer. Group members reflect a new mindset amongst Australian radio listeners, as exampled in the Alan Jones controversy when he made ill-advised comments about the Prime Minister Julia Gillard, and the 2-DAY FM ‘prank call’ episode. Readers analyse replies from radio stations such as 3AW, and are critical if an executive’s reply is perceived as terse, dismissive or less than forthcoming. Social media is playing an increasing role in a ‘group mentality’ of listeners needing to be addressed intelligently and respectfully. There is a genuine risk of media groups almost immediately losing large slices of their audience if issues are badly handled by out-of-touch managers.
● Mark Petkovic
● Chris Martin ■ If you are searching for a Christmas sue music a day a week in London, and present to please the classical music lover studied at the London College of Muin your life, then author Mary Ryllis Clark sic. may have solved your problem. Chris soon made his mark, and the Mary has just published a memoir of book is full of stories and pictures about much-loved Melbourne conductor and his friendships with major 20th century viola player, Christopher Martin, who musicians, including famous cellist died of leukaemia at the age of 81 in Jacqueline du Pre and composer BenOctober last year. jamin Britten, who insisted to the young Titled Christopher Martin - In the Christopher “just call me Ben!”. Middle of the Music - Memoir and MemoMary Ryllis Clark has a deceptively ries, the book paints a vivid picture of a light touch to her writing; always well multi-faceted Englishman who spent researched and erudite, but never dull. much of his later career in Australia, playThe book is a tribute to a great ing with major orchestras and teaching Melbourne musician, but not a sycoat the Melbourne University Conserv- phantic one. atorium of Music. Lovers of classical music will enjoy But there was no magical beginning Christopher's story unfolding, and the to this great musician's career. He left many natural anecdotes he tells of his school to work in a factory in England, working relationships with household and it was due to the encouragement of names in the music business. an enthusiastic amateur village musician The book is available at Readings and that his great talent was recognised. from Australian Scholarly Publishing on So young Christopher was given 9329 6963 - www.scholarly.info time off by his factory employers to pur- Julie Houghton
‘No moves’ ■ 3AW Program Director Clark Forbes has replied to a Nightline listener that Bruce Mansfield and Philip Brady will “not be going national”. In a terse note to listener Pam, Forbes also responds to criticism of the Australia Overnight program hosted by Andrew McLaren and Mark Petkovic. Forbes notes that the ratings for the midnight-dawn program had increased by four percentage points. Forbes neglected to mention that the recent increase in audience, followed a drop in the past year.
To ‘7.30’ ■ Former Seven Network reporter Louise Milligan has won the race to join the ABC's 7.30.
● Louise Milligan
Local Theatre Vieux Carre ■ ITCH (International Theatre of the Condition of Humans) Productions presents the Australian premiere of Vieux Carré by Tennesse Williams, from January 17 to February 3 at fortyfivedownstairs, 45 Flinders La., Melbourne. Presented as a Midsumma 2013 premier event, Vieux Carré is a candid, humorous and deeply personal work that Tennessee Williams began in the 1930s and completed more than 40 years later. Billed as Williams's most autobiographical work, Vieux Carré is an uncensored and unrestrained 'memory play' that lifts the veil on a writer taking his first steps in life - artistically, socially and sexually. Behind the iron lacework and grand facades of the Vieux Carré, our innocent writer witnesses the lives of the other tenants of a New Orleans rooming house and their longings, depravities and hunger for human connection. Vieux Carr is directed by Alice Bishop and features Thomas Blackburne, Josh Blau, Des Fleming, Maureen Harley, Samantha Murray, Kelly Nash, Brenda Palmer, Dallas Palmer, Francesca Waters and Stephen Whittaker, with music and composition by Nat Grant and Bob McGowan Venue: fortyfivedownstairs, 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Season: January 17 - February 3 Preview: January 17 Opening: January 18 Times :7.30pm Tuesday - Saturday, 5pm Sunday Tickets: $40 Full, $35 Concession, $35 Groups 6+ and $28 Preview Bookings: www.midsumma.org.au or www.fortyfivedownstairs.com - Cheryl Threadgold
Funny business! ■ The Melbourne International Comedy Festival seeks new fresh funny faces to join the ranks of Australia’s largest and most prestigious open mic comedy competition in 2013. Heats will be held in 10 locations between January and March. RAW Comedy is the competition for those who have a few classic corkers up their sleeve ready to be unleashed. Those interested can go to www.rawcomedy. com.au and put their hand up to impart some jest at their local heat. Professional comedians and comedy aficionados will tour the country to judge each heat, deciding who will go through to the big deal RAW Comedy Grand Final, which will pit the top 12 finalists from around Australia against one another up on the main stage of the Melbourne Town Hall, 5pm, April 14. The Melbourne International Comedy Festival has been inviting fresh faces to the country’s comedy stages as part of RAW Comedy annually since 1996. Entrants must have earned less than $500 from comedy and have a short set of jokes ready to go for their local heat. The winner of RAW Comedy National Grand Final in 2012 was Lessons with Luis from Victoria. Amos Gill from South Australia came equal runner-up with Cameron James from New South Wales. Heats and Finals Victoria. Melbourne: Qualifying Heat No. 1: Sat Jan 12, 1pm. Doors 12.30pm, www,evelynhotel.com.au The Evelyn Hotel?351 Brunswick St, Fitzroy Qualifying Heat No. 2: Sat Jan 19, 1pm. Doors 12.30pm. www.cornerhotel.com The Corner Hotel?57 Swan St, Richmond Qualifying Heat No. 3: Sat Feb 2, 1pm. Doors 12.30pm. www.espy.com.au The Esplanade Hotel?11 The Esplanade, St Kilda Qualifying Heat No. 4: Sat 9 Feb, 1pm. Doors 12.30pm. www.northcotesocialclub.com The Northcote Social Club?301 High St, Northcote
● Josh Blau (left) and Thomas Blackburne in Vieux Carré, presented by ITCH Productions from January 17 to February 3 at fortyfivedownstairs.
The Book Of Revelations ■ La Mama’s 2012 Explorations season closes at La Mama Courthouse with The Book of Revelations on December 20, 21 and 22. The Book of Revelations is cross-disciplinary theatre by Alison Richards, who will perform her own poetic text, with original music by Faye Bendrups. It is the Last Days. A woman sits on top of a mountain, waiting. ?In the daytime she tries to stay out of the sun. ?In the night time, she sings to the stars.? She didn’t pack enough lunch. What would you pack for the End of the World... this time around? Creator/performer: Alison Richards. Music by: by: Faye Bendrups. Music performe dby Faye Bendrups, Guillermo Anad and Nick Reynolds. Directed by: Nancy Black. Production and Stage Manager: Canada White. Digital Creative Consultant: Christy Dena. Lighting Consultant: Philip Lethlean. Costume Design: Peri Jenkins. Puppet maker: Rachael Guy. Graphic Design: Max Thompson, Mantissa Design. Performances: December 20, 21, 22, Thu, Fri, Sat 7:30pm. Running time: 60 minutes Venue: La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St, Carlton Tickets: All tickets $15 | Available online www.lamama.com.au or via 03 9347 6142. - Cheryl Threadgold
Page 48 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Observer Showbiz What’s Hot and What’s Not on DVD and Blu-Ray
● The Ten Commeandments: Screen legend Charlton Heston as Moses and the parting of the Red Sea, one of the most spectacular moments ever captured on film. Legendary pioneering filmmaker Cecil B. DeMille's monumental epic is a breathtaking cinematic and entertainment experience and has been restored with stunning results for Blu-ray and DVD release. A Special Message: It's that time of year again and I would like to wish Melbourne Observer Editor, Ash Long, the outstanding list of Melbourne Observer staff and weekly contributors including Di Rolle, Kevin Trask, Yvonne Lawrence, Aaron Rourke and all the others, along with their families, and most importantly, the Melbourne Observer readers and families, a very Merry Christmas and a Healthy, Happy, Safe and Hugely Successful New Year, with many, many more to come! Thank you for all your kindness, support and generosity throughout the 2012, and I look forward to more next year! For now here are some recommendations to look out for and enjoy over the Christmas and New Year period: FILM: THE TEN COMMANDMENTS: Cast: Charlton Heston, Yul Brynner, Edward G. Robinson, Debra Paget. Genre: Historical/Drama. Year: 1956. Rating: PG. Running Time: 222 Minutes. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ***** Verdict: Legendary Hollywood pioneer Cecil B. DeMille's epic masterpiece of an Egyptian Prince, Moses, who learns of his true heritage and his divine mission as the deliverer of his people, is still to this day one of the most monumental filmmaking achievements to come out of Hollywood's golden era. A grandiose spectacle of colour, scope, set and production design, standout performances and pure entertainment. The now legendary parting of the red sea sequence is a breathtaking cinematic experience, recently voted the greatest special effect of all time, and remember, there was no CGI back then. Don't miss this one! FILM: Mickey's COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: Cast: Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy. Genre: Animated/Family. Year: Assorted Years. Rating: G. Running Time: 95 Minutes. Format: DVD. Stars: ***** Verdict: Your favourite Disney characters are all here in this treasure trove of Christmas animated shorts, but the real gem is the enchanting and unforgettable story a very important little donkey named The Small One, this priceless gem from Walt Disney and legendary animator Don Bluth of a young boy who has to sell his favourite donkey, with no luck, but go on to become a part of Christmas history, is one that will stay firmly in the hearts and minds of children and adults, a rare and unique experience that is once seen, it is never forgotten! FILM: MIRACLE ON 34th STREET: Cast: Maureen O'Hara, Edmund Gwenn, Natalie Wood. Genre: Family. Year: 1947. Rating: G. Running Time: 92 Minutes. Format: DVD. Stars: **** Verdict: Screen legend Edmund Gwenn shines in his Oscar winning role as the genial old Kris Kringle, who is hired by Macy's Department Store in New York to be their Santa Claus over the festive season, and then surprises everyone by claiming to be the real Father Christmas, but his claims lead to his arrest and a trial with some very unlikely conclusions, an absolute delight from beginning to end, this is one of the great Christmas classics of all time, and one that can be watched and enjoyed time and time again! Turn To Page 54
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Movies, DVDs
With James Sherlock
Reviews by Aaron Rourke
Top 10 Lists
AARON’S BEST FOR 2012 ■ It is hard to believe we are already at the end of 2012, looking back on what entertained and disappointed us during the year. Here are my personal favourites for the last 12 months (unfortunately I have not seen Paul Thomas Anderson's highly regarded The Master at this time, as I am waiting for its 70mm presentation at The Astor Theatre, the exclusive season having just commenced on December 16), outstanding gems which helps keep the spirit of cinema alive. I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year. Looking forward to see what the world of cinema holds for us in 2013. 1) Himizu (MA). 130 minutes. Coming to DVD in February 2013. ****½. Sion Sono's psychologically brutal drama is an intense look at two young people and how they cope after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Exceptionally well-acted and directed. 2) Kotoko (R). 91 minutes. Coming to DVD in 2013. ****½. Harrowing look at the mental disintegration of a young mother (mesmerisingly played by Cocco, partly based on her own experiences) is one of director Shinya Tsukamoto's best films. Brilliantly captures the fragile world of someone suffering from mental illness. 3) Berberian Sound Studio (M). 92 minutes. Opens at ACMI on December 27. ****½. Enveloping, highly atmospheric experience about the power of cinema. Director Peter Strickland perfectly encapsulates the surreal world of Italian horror cinema, and intelligently weaves the genre's fractured sense of logic into the story of a meek British sound engineer (wonderfully played by Toby Jones) working on a Dario Argento-style giallo feature. 4) Carre Blanc (MA). 80 minutes. Coming Soon. ****½. Compelling sci-fi/drama/thriller set in a future world that promotes conformity, creating a grey, passionless society where the birth rate is low and the suicide rate is high. In the tradition of 1984, this is an incredibly stylish, even darkly humourous film from first-time director Jean Baptiste Leonetti. 5) Hugo 3D (PG). 126 minutes. Out Now on DVD and Blu-Ray. ****½. Martin Scorsese's loving ode to the early days of cinema is his best film in years, filled with the kind of passion that marked his earlier work. Stunning use of 3D. 6) 'Twixt (MA). 88 minutes. Coming to DVD in 2013. ****½. After Youth Without Youth and
Melbourne
Observer THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. SKYFALL. 2. PITCH PERFECT. 3. THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN - PART 2. 4. HERE COMES THE BOOM. 5. THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER. 6. RED DAWN. 7. ARGO. . 8. THE INTOUCHABLES. 9. THE MAN WITH THE IRON FISTS. 10. THE TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE.
Tetro, Francis Ford Coppola continues his love letter to European cinema with this intoxicating effort, beautifully inspired by directors such as Jean Rollin, Mario Bava and Victor Erice. 7) The Artist (PG). 100 minutes. Out now on DVD and Blu-Ray. ****½. Yet another nod to the early days of cinema, this lovingly crafted film is shot in glorious black-and-white and is almost dialogue-free throughout. Oscar winner Jean Dujardin is firstrate, as is the entire cast. 8) Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy (MA). 128 minutes. Out Now on DVD and Blu-Ray. ****½. Absorbing, low-key, and meticulously constructed spy thriller is confidently directed by Tomas Alfredson and features an incredible all-star cast, lead by Gary Oldman. 9) Ending Note (PG). 90 minutes. Coming Soon. ****½. Very moving, intimate documentary which follows a retired office worker dealing with cancer and how it affects him and his family (this was shot by his daughter). Candid and sometimes hard to watch. 10) Bleak Night (M). 117 minutes. Coming Soon. ****½. Exceptional drama about teenage suicide features outstanding performances and direction. 11) The Terminal Trust (M). 144 minutes. Coming to DVD in 2013. ****½. The controversial topic of euthanasia is sensitively and intelligently handled in this first-class drama, showing the subject from a medical, legal, and emotional point-of-view. Fantastic lead performances. From the director of Shall We Dance? (1996). 12) The Thieves (MA). 135 minutes. Coming to DVD and Blu-Ray in February 2013. ****½. A top-notch cast all deliver superb performances in this perfectly crafted heist comedy/thriller, that also contains some eye-popping action setpieces. Wonderfully directed, and proved to be one of the most entertaining films of the year. Worthy Of Recognition: The Front Line; Margin Call; Higher Ground; Another Earth; The Muppets; Take Shelter; Elite Squad 2; I Wish; The Floating Castle; The Sunset Limited; Tyrannosaur; Key Of Life; Thermae Romae; Easy Money; Punch; Samurai Scabbard; Killer Joe; Grabbers; Shame; Ace Attorney; It's A Beautiful Life : Irodori; Silenced; A Dangerous Method; Cosmopolis; King Of Devil's Island; The Descendants; Beyond The Black Rainbow; Seediq Bale I and II; Bunny Drop; Miss Bala; The Raid; Late Blossom - Aaron Rourke
NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: DECEMBER 13: LIBERAL ARTS, LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED, PARIS MANHATTAN, RISE OF THE GUARDIANS. DECEMBER 20: THE GUILLOTINES. THE DVD TOP RENTAL & SELLERS: 1. THE DARK KNIGHT RISES [Action/Crime/Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Tom Hardy]. 2. THE BOURNE LEGACY [Action/ Thriller/Jeremy Renner, Edward Norton, Rachel Weisz]. 3. ICE AGE 4: CONTINENTIAL DRIFT [Animated/Comedy/Ray Romano, Denis Leary]. 4. BRAVE [Family/Animated/Adventure/Kelly MacDonald, Billy Connolly, Emma Thompson]. 5. ABRAHAM LINCOLN: VAMPIRE HUNTER [Action/Horror/Dominic Cooper]. 6. TED: Extended Edition [Comedy/Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Seth MacFarlane]. 7. SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN [Adventure/Fantasy/ Chris Hemsworth, Kristen Stewart]. 8. THE SAPPHIRES [Music/Comedy/Deborah Mailman, Jessica Mauboy, Chris O'Dowd]. 9. PROMETHEUS [Science Fiction/Noomi Rapace, Charlize Theron, Michael Fassbender]. 10. MAGIC MIKE [Comedy/Matthew McConaughey, Channing Tatum, Matt Bomer]. Also: THE DICTATOR, KATY PERRY: PART OF ME, IN DARKNESS, VAMPS, THE AVENGERS, CHERNOBYL DIARIES, ARTHUR CHRISTMAS, ROCK OF AGES, THE THREE STOOGES, CABIN IN THE WOODS. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: TOTAL RECALL [Action/Science Fiction/Colin Farrell, Kate Beckinsale]. SEEKING A FRIEND FOR THE END OF THE WORLD [Comedy/Steve Carell, Keira Knightley]. HOPE SPRINGS [Romance/Comedy/Drama/Tommy Lee Jones, Meryl Streep]. THE SAMARITAN [Crime/Drama/ Samuel L. Jackson, Tom Wilkinson]. COSMOPOLIS [Drama/Robert Pattinson, Samantha Morton, Paul Giamatti]. SILENT HOUSE [Thriller/Elizabeth Olsen]. LE CHEF [Comedy/Jean Reno]. NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: THE BEST MAN [Drama/Henry Fonda, Cliff Robertson]. Turn To Page 54
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2012 - Page 49
Observer Showbiz
Local Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold
‘THE LAST 5 YEARS’ AT FOSTER AUDITIONS
■ FAMDA: The Last Five Years (by Jason Robert Brown) January 13 at 1.30pm at the Foster War Memorial Arts Centre. Director: David Tattersall. Audition bookings: 5682 2421. ■ The Mount Players: The Threepenny Opera January 19, 20 at 10.00am at the Mountview Theatre, 56 Smith Street, Macedon. Director: Leo Vandervalk; Musical Director: Peter Weerts. Enquiries: 0439 554 237. ■ Kew Courthouse Association: Cosi January 20, 21 at 7.30pm at the Balwyn Community Centre, 412 Whitehorse Road, Surrey Hills. Director: David Lawson-smith. Audition bookings: admin@kewcourthousearts.com.au
See you at Beaumaris
SHOWS ■ The Leading Dramatic Society Inc.: Season to Sing Christmas Show December 22 at 3.00pm at the Kingston Arts Centre, 979 Nepean Highway, Moorabbin. Director: Kerry Susan Drake. Tickets: $15. Bookings: 0422 384 397. ■ PLOS Musical Productions: The Secret Garden December 31 at 5.00pm, January 2, 3, 4, 5 at 7.30pm, January 5, 6 at 1.30pm at the Frankston Arts Centre. Tickets: $43, PSSU $38, Under 16 $29. Groups $38. Bookings: www.plos.asn.au ■ Encore Theatre: Dick Whittington and His Cat - a Pantomime January 10 - 19 at 11.00am and 2.00pm, at the Clayton Community Centre Theatrette, Corner Cooke Street and Centre Road, Clayton. Director: Christine Simmonds. Tickets: $10 each. Bookings: 1300 739 099. ■ Hartwell Players Inc.: Tiny Thumbelena (by Vera Morris) January 19 - 26 at the Performing Arts Centre, Ashwood College, Vannam Drive, Ashwood. Director: Dee Whittington. Tickets: $18/$12. Bookings: 9513 9581 . ■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: The Grand Manner (by A. R. Gurney) February 1 - 16 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Road, Parkdale. Director: Judy Corderoy. Tickets: $24/$22/$18. Bookings: 9587 5141. - Cheryl Threadgold
● Roger Wilson will host the Carols At Beaumaris on Monday (Dec. 24). See Page 45 for more details. Roger Wilson was awarded an OAM in 2009 for his services to rowing as a commentator and the community, including his compering of the Beaumaris Carols for more than 30 years.
Melbourne
Observer REVIEW ■ There are several ways one can enter a theatre – through the main door, walking across the stage area, etc. The audience of Noa, however, enter by climbing down a ladder lit only by torchlight! (The conventional way is also available for those who prefer it.) The sound of strenuous peddling fills the air, the lights come up to gradually illuminate the intimate performance space in a set that was the bunker in which a brother and sister live. Thus the audience is engaged with the play from the start, and the scene is introduced for an intriguing piece of theatre that holds the attention from start to finish. Writer and director Samara Hersch, with divisors and performers Karen Sibbing and Joshua Ferenbach, have created a show with surprises at every turn. Working on several levels, Noa explores “the idea of loss and what it means to accept the changes that life imposes on us”, as well as the way technology and social media influences our identities. Sound (Marco Cher-Gibard) and lighting (Amelia LeverDavidson) play integral roles in the show, adding to the atmosphere and unfolding meaning of what we are seeing. Props also are cleverly used as the obviously well-worn ‘games’ are played out. Despite some opening night technical hitches (to the extent that the show had to be stopped and assistance given to rectify the problems before restarting) and some sections that could have been tighter to avoid a perception of chaos, the actors did a fine job. This is a show worth seeing and spending time talking about afterwards to further explore the ideas. Performance Season: Until December 21, Venue: La Mama Theatre, 205 Faraday St Carlton Time: Wed, Sun 6.30pm. Thu, Fri, Sat 7.30pm Price: $25 Full. $15 Concession Bookings: Tickets available online www.lamama.com.au or 9347 6142 - Janine Chugg
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Page 50 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2012 Melbourne
Observer
Lovatts Crossword No 35 Across
1. Saved 6. Dental hole 11. Victorious cheer 15. Waterfront worker 20. Module 21. Strangely 22. Horse's neck hair 23. Edition 25. Discuss 26. Arctic sea bird 27. More pleasant 29. Single eyeglass 32. Small duck 34. Uncontrolled slide 36. Green gemstone 39. Hide away 41. Ticked over 43. Crème de la crème 46. Snooped 48. Once the ninth planet 49. Provides with personnel 51. Tiny amount 52. Symbolised 55. Widespread 56. Step 59. Hunter star formation 61. Soft-drink flavour 62. False god 63. Doled (out) 64. Beholden 67. Wander 68. Floor-cleaning liquid 70. Close at hand 71. Scrape together (4,2) 72. Chefs' smocks 73. Cure 74. Park seat 75. Guaranteed 77. Bereaved wife 78. Sends via Internet 79. Sufferer for cause 82. Golf hole scores 86. Scientist, Sir Isaac ... 87. Jacob's Old Testament twin 89. Social expulsion 92. Furtive peek 94. Velvet-like leather 96. Indecent material 98. "No" votes 100. Backless chair 101. Cat's cries 103. Dairy drink 105. Oily fruit 106. Stages of journey 108. Prepare path, ... the way 111. Outlaid money 112. Adopted (policy) 114. Of bone system 116. In proportion, pro ... 119. Actress, ... Thompson 120. Cup edges 121. Greenwich Mean Time (1,1,1) 123. Minuscule particle 124. Crowds 125. Less detailed 126. Hotel check-in desk 127. Experimental models (4-3) 130. Egg cells 131. Street stalls 135. Car smash 138. Gullible folk 139. Prude 141. Dorky youths 144. Bottle stopper 146. Donkey 147. Bring up (kids) 148. Drink daintily 149. Reminder 150. Cut into shape 151. Meat cutlet 152. Tidier 153. Trifling 155. Therefore 157. Shoe lining 158. Follow orders 160. Each year, per ... 161. Incidental comment 162. Sturdy 163. Unrestrained revelry 165. Standards 166. Possess
Across
Down
Down
167. Grow old 168. Come in 169. Conformed, ... the line 171. Oscillate 172. Increased 175. Uses straw 176. Henpecks 179. Made play on words 180. Ready for picking 182. Body fluid lump 184. Glimpses 185. Flog 186. Information 188. Shut loudly 189. Zilch 190. Tennis ace, ... Sampras 191. Commercial breaks 193. Lentil dish 194. Come next 196. Principal 197. Pronto (1,1,1,1) 198. Patron saint of France 200. Disheartens 205. Boxer, Muhammad ... 207. Concentrated flavouring 210. Break from rule 211. Sorrowful 212. Main Indonesian island 213. Brief calm 214. ... the season to be jolly ('3) 216. Verbal exam 218. Fabled whale, ... Dick 219. Cargo 220. Witty remark (3-5) 224. Comprehended 227. Speaks 229. Please reply (1,1,1,1) 230. Friend in war 231. Phantom Of The ... 232. Cycled 233. Valley 235. My Big Fat ... Wedding 237. Active Sicilian volcano 239. Brink 241. Festivities 244. Famed lioness 246. Pretended (4-5) 249. Poems 252. Appliance, ... cleaner 254. Of poor quality 256. Muddled (up) 258. Model for public ridicule 259. Tibet's ... Lama 260. Meatball 263. Hindu land 264. Jewish scholars 265. Swiss cereal 267. Arrested 270. Opponents 271. Become sparser (4,3) 272. Went sour (of milk) 273. Beastlier 274. Rent 277. Dad 279. Red-skinned cheese 281. Devonshire tea item 284. Fortune 286. Off-limits, ... area (2-2) 288. Liver sac (4,7) 292. Chinese gooseberry, ... fruit 294. Author, Leon ... 295. Immature 298. Tribal senior 300. W African nation, Sierra ... 301. Metric length unit 303. Police informers 306. Unspecified person 308. Shallowest of the five Great Lakes 309. Grasp 311. Colonised 314. Hymn, Ave ... 315. Self-love 316. Rope (off) 317. Different 318. Kidney fat 319. US naval port, San ... 320. Stitched 321. Merest 322. Greek island 323. Chatter 324. Charming
1. Windless 2. Naming word 3. Eject from home 4. Flower jars 5. Song for two 6. Drumming insect 7. Circular coral reef 8. Heathen 9. Low-bowled cricket delivery 10. Beautiful youth 11. Dash 12. Cultured 13. Out-of-order 14. Yearn 15. Transmit 16. Do well (at) 17. Kind of heron 18. Killer whale 19. Writer, ... Blyton 24. Reprimand, ... on the wrist 28. Large birds 30. Actor, ... Sharif 31. Knuckle of veal stew, ... bucco 33. One or the other 35. Local sayings 37. Strong cord 38. Delicate fabric 40. Tropical shrub 42. Wear down 44. 24-hour car race (2,4) 45. Sore to touch 47. Stench 48. Hair bleach 49. Climbed up on 50. Central American republic 53. Spoils rotten 54. Angry outbursts 57. Alertness 58. Swirling 60. Disabled (racehorse) 63. Inflatable life jacket (3,4) 65. Cricketing extras 66. Facts 68. Raise stakes, up the ... 69. Steam press 76. Reactor fuel 79. Tight-lipped 80. Relative sizes 81. Egg yellows 83. Stroll 84. Leap forward 85. I ... with my little eye 88. Insurance estimators 90. Trampled, ... on 91. Frosts (biscuits) 93. Beachfront mall 95. Arabian prince 97. Countless 99. Straddling 100. Coal vein 102. Revises (manuscript) 104. Stagger 107. Flee with lover 109. Formula One car sound 110. Bullets 111. Light industry area, business ... 113. Gourmet 115. Booting (out) 117. Go berserk, run ... 118. Aid in crime 121. Earns before tax 122. Captured 127. Exaggeratedly masculine 128. Chilli con ... 129. Aptly 132. Punctuation marks 133. Early anaesthetic 134. Sentimental 135. Type of pheasant 136. Murderers 137. Pompous
138. Breast x-ray 140. Stiff-legged march (5,4) 141. Left untended 142. Dog, ... ridgeback 143. Haste 145. On edge (5-2) 151. Played the fool 154. Incurred (expenses) (3,2) 156. All set 159. Derisive shout 164. Suppress 169. Hauled 170. Lengthy movies 173. Tapering flag 174. Choux pastries, chocolate ... 177. White-faced 178. Get to the bottom of 181. Mentally picture 183. Sequin 187. Letter sleeves 192. Shook loose 195. Impure 199. Poured forth 201. Iraq's neighbour 202. Breakfast or dinner 203. Skims swiftly 204. ... Fools' Day 206. Pablo Casals' instrument 207. Obliterate 208. Shady trees 209. Square-sided prism 213. Songbird 215. Frozen regions 217. Mining magnate, ... Hancock 221. Peruvian mammal 222. Sprite 223. Staff roster 224. Spellbound 225. Paris landmark, ... Triomphe (3,2) 226. Brainwaves 228. Curios (4-1-4) 234. Planner of ship's course 236. Well-read 238. Revenge, tit for ... 240. Deity 242. Matters 243. In general 245. Schooling 247. Romantic & poetic 248. Corrected (text) 250. Physicist, Albert ... 251. Caravan nomads 253. Dish, bangers & ... 255. Crushing defeat 257. Smooth 258. Ireland (Gaelic) 261. Pulsing light 262. Lubricant container 265. Street assailant 266. Actor's platform 268. Trumpet sound 269. Actor, ... MacPherson 275. European currency unit 276. Wiry-haired dog, ... terrier 278. Blocked (blow) 280. Black mark 282. Zodiac crossover 283. Egyptian river 285. Salad fish 287. The Naked Chef, Jamie ... 289. Famous insurance body 290. Encircled 291. Church lay officer 292. Danish monetary units 293. Independent 296. Enthusiasm 297. Courage 299. End of life 302. Neither these nor ... 304. Greenfly 305. Asian republic, South ... 306. Congeals 307. Short skirt 308. Compass point 310. Performed 312. Jeans pioneer, ... Strauss 313. ... dong dell
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2012 - Page 51
Solution on Page 34
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Page 52 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2012
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2012 - Page 53
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
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Advertiser Of The Week
Page 54 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2012
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Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport
Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 48
YOU’RE SPOT ON, PETE
● Peter Moody Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754
Come back Lee ■ News that Hall of Fame trainer Lee Freedman had split with another top trainer, Graeme Rogerson, was on the cards as the whisper had been around the tracks in Victoria for some time. A number of keen judges in Victoria were disappointed when the likeable great trainer picked up sticks to move to the Coat Hanger City. One of the nicest racing people going around he will be warmly received back in Victoria by all and sundry. I had the pleasure of meeting Lee back in 1984, when I was working in television and Lee was starting out. It is now history now, that he went on to win, just about every classic going around: Melbourne Cups, five of them, with Tawriffic in 1989, Subzero,92, Doriemus, 95, and two with the great mare, Makybe Diva in 2004-05, he has won four Golden Slippers, Cox Plates and Caulfield Cups and Derbies. The news that Freedman would be returning has been around for a while and with his brother Anthony who took over the reins at Markdel at Mornington, taking out stables at Flemington, now is the ideal time to re-start the partnership. The brothers will confer over Christmas dinner and I am sure over a few ales. I may be a bit premature, but welcome back Lee. I would like to wish everyone and their families a Happy and Holy Christmas and a great New Year.
● Green Moon Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754
■ Top trainer Peter Moody is spot on with his suggestion to make Victoria the Mecca for world international horse races. Peter has called for racing authorities to come up with international events to attract the best here, rather than our gallopers having to go overseas to match their best. This was proven when his mighty mare the world's best sprinter Black Caviar, had to travel 30 hours to England and wasn't at her best, but still won the Queen Jubilee Event, just to show her class. I am sure we could attract international and Australian sponsors to back the proposals. One that comes to mind immediately is Emirates who back our Melbourne Cup and Emirates Stakes Day. Then you have BMW who support the Melbourne Racing Club with their Caulfield Cup. Then you have all the betting agencies such as Betfair, Sporting Bet, Centrebet, and TAB Sportsbet, whom I am sure would cast a keen eye over the proposal, to get their message across. Moody, according to Herald Sun iournalist Rod Nicholson, has suggested a day with a $3 million sprint, 1600, 2000 and 2400 metre races to really put Australia on the map. Peter said: "Every major race centre has their big days such as -The Breeder's Cup in America, Japan, Dubai, the UK and Hong Kong. He added that the Melbourne Cup was our only international event that attracts the best of the inter-nationals, but they still have to run 3200 metres (two- miles). Moody suggested that the Australian Racing Board could look at it. The day could probably be best suited in our Autumn, suggesting about three weeks before the Dubai World Championship meeting. He went on to say there is no reason that we couldn't be run in Melbourne one year, Sydney the next and even Queensland. Western Australia
Ted Ryan
What’s Hot, What’s Not FILM: JESUS OF NAZARETH: Cast: Robert Powell, Anne Bancroft, James Mason, Christopher Plummer. Genre: Drama/Historical. Year: 1977. Rating: G. Running Time: 373 Minutes. Format: DVD. Stars: **** Verdict: Director Franco Zefferelli's TV Mini Series has been beautifully remastered and is the complete epic available for the first time ever on DVD, this compelling and powerful portrait was four years in the making and went on to win numerous awards, the star studded cast are all superb, and combined with outstanding, cinematography, production and costume design, it all comes together to make excellent viewing, and be warned: try to avoid the shortened theatrical version. - James Sherlock ■ From Page 48
Top 10 Lists THE YOUNG SAVAGES [Drama/Crime/Burt Lancaster, Telly Savalas, Shelley Winters]. SCREAM BLACULA SCREAM [Horror/William Marshall, Pam Grier]. THE BOOST [Drama/Romance/James Woods, Sean Young].
could possibly pose a problem, but worth looking at. Moody's suggestion came after the news that the Victoria Racing Club has cut prizemoney for the Lightning Stakes in February by $250,000 and the Australian Guineas in March both now worth $500,000. Moody called for a cap on major races and financially support the "domestic races". He referred to one of his top gallopers in summarising the situation. “How can it be that one of my best Manighar can win three races and win $ 2.1 million, when the star of my stable Black Caviar who has won 22 races has earned only $6.8 million?” He added "There are too many imbalances, for instance Green Moon won the Melbourne Cup and picked up $3.8 million for his connections that is more than half the money won by my champion mare winning 22 in a row". Peter finalised his statements with the fact, that if Black Caviar comes up OK, she would return in the Lightning as it was an ideal start to her last campaign.
It’s Magic ■ The Magic Millions team is gearing up for yet another big year at their complex on the Gold Coast next year.
Ballarat's inaugural clockwise winner, I'M Too Sexy, leads the first order of entry released by Racing Queensland for next month's $2 million Jeep Magic Millions Classic. With $122,000 earned from her three length win, the Reann filly prepared by Victorian trainer, Mark Riley, has already clinched a start in Queensland's richest race. A pair of Gai Waterhouse trained Sydney winners are next on the table-Sweet Idea with $65,500 gained with her win and Breeder's Plate winner, Whittington who picked up $60,000 for his connections from his only start. Melbourne winner, Change of Honour is next with $57,000 ahead of Clockwise runner-up, Ticket to Toorak on $54,000. Sydney winner's Assail, Certitude and Champagne Catch are equal sixth in the order of entry for the Classic having all earned $48,750,(less bonuses) from their respective Sydney victories. Melbourne Stakes performer, Purrific and Brisbane winner, Choose A Saga, round out the top ten. The figures are up to including December 11.
NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: GOLD RUSH: Season 2. 21 JUMP STREET: Season 3. 21 JUMP STREET: Season 4. 21 JUMP STREET: Season 5. UNDERWATER UNIVERSE: Season One. GENE SIMMONS: Family Jewels - Season Six. SHARK WEEK: Air Jaws Apocalypse. SHARK WEEK: Ocean of Fear. SHARK WEEK: The Definitive Collection. STEPHEN HAWKING'S Grand Design. TOP BLU-RAY RENTAL & SELLERS: 1. THE DARK KNIGHT RISES [Action/Crime/ Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Tom Hardy]. 2. THE BOURNE LEGACY [Action/Drama/Jeremy Renner, Edward Norton, Rachel Weisz]. 3. ICE AGE 4: CONTINENTIAL DRIFT 3D [Animated/Comedy/Ray Romano, Denis Leary]. 4. BRAVE 3D + 2D Blu-ray [Family/Animated/Adventure/Kelly MacDonald, Billy Connolly]. 5. TED: Extended Edition [Comedy/Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Seth MacFarlane]. 6. SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN [Adventure/Fantasy/Chris Hemsworth, Kristen Stewart]. 7. THE SAPPHIRES [Music/Comedy/Deborah Mailman, Jessica Mauboy, Chris O'Dowd]. 8. PROMETHEUS + DVD [Science Fiction/ Noomi Rapace, Charlize Theron, Michael Fassbender]. 9. ABRAHAM LINCOLN: VAMPIRE HUNTER [Action/Horror/Dominic Cooper]. 10. AVATAR 3D + DVD [Science Fiction/ Chris Hemsworth, Sigourney Weaver]. Also: The Dictator, Katy Perry: Part of Me, Magic Mike, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, Arthur Christmas 3D + 2D Blu-ray, The Avengers 2D + 3D, Finding Nemo 3D, UP 3D, The Three Stooges, Bond 50, Indiana Jones: The Complete Adventures. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON BLU-RAY THIS WEEK: TOTAL RECALL [Action/Science Fiction/Colin Farrell, Kate Beckinsale]. SEEKING A FRIEND FOR THE END OF THE WORLD [Comedy/Steve Carell, Keira Knightley]. HOPE SPRINGS [Romance/Comedy/Drama/ Tommy Lee Jones, Meryl Streep]. THE SAMARITAN [Crime/Drama/Samuel L. Jackson, Tom Wilkinson]. COSMOPOLIS [Drama/Robert Pattinson, Samantha Morton, Paul Giamatti]. STEPHEN HAWKING'S Grand Design. SILENT HOUSE [Thriller/Elizabeth Olsen]. - James Sherlock
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2012 - Page 55
Page 56 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2012
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Sea Change, Safety Cove, Tasmania Amazing Tasmanian Holiday Experiences Save 30 %
ange Safety Cove + Ch a Se at n io at od m m valued Two nights acco ss boat cruise fo two ne er ild W nd la Is an sm Ta
0 2 4 $ w o n 0 0 6 $ y ll Norma observer Quote Melbourne
One of Tasmania's best waterfront location for accommodation Adjacent to the pristine Safety Cove Beach with magnificent views of Tasman Island and the highest sea cliffs in the southern hemisphere
Sea Change Safety Cove 425 Safety Cove Rd, Port Arthur, Tas 7182 Ph/Fax (03) 6250 2719 www.safetycove.com E-Mail: safetycove@ bigpond.com