Category Archives: Movies

Banished

banishedIn case you’ve missed this one, screening Monday nights on CBC Television is the 7-part miniseries Banished. Filmed in Australia as well as Manchester, England, the British drama is set in the first penal colony founded by the British in New South Wales.

In 1787 Britain banished its unwanted citizens ­ – orphans, petty thieves, prostitutes and highwaymen – to Sydney, Australia. This series follows convicts Elizabeth (MyAnna Buring) and Tommy (Julian Rhind-Tutt), who are breaking the rules by being in a relationship. When their relationship is revealed, it sparks conflict and sets into motion a series of events that puts friendships and ideals in question during a time when survival depends on having the back of those you love.

Also starring are Russell Tovey and Australian David Wenham. The first two episodes have already screened and are available online. The series continues tonight at 9:00 pm and is available online. (Since I don’t have cable, be sure to check showtimes in your area.)

NZ vamp movie comes to Polo Park

movie 2SilverCity Polo Park is screening the brilliantly funny NZ movie “What We Do In The Shadows“. It’s running from today until at least next Thursday March 5 (check the theatre’s website for further dates)‎.

The 1hr 26min comedy horror follows the lives of Viago (Taika Waititi), Deacon (Jonathan Brugh), and Vladislav (Jemaine Clement), three flatmates who are just trying to get by and overcome life’s obstacles – being immortal vampires who must feast on human blood. Hundreds of years old, the vampires are finding that beyond sunlight catastrophes, hitting the main artery, and not being able to get a sense of their wardrobe without a reflection, modern society has them struggling with the mundane – paying rent, keeping up with the chore wheel, trying to get into nightclubs, and overcoming flatmate conflicts. Continue reading

Children’s books, videos and more

It can be hard to find country-specific things for Children when you live far away from your homeland. It can be equally difficult to find people who appreciate them when your kids grow up and no longer need them.

If any members of the DUCW club with small children are interested in accepting items from members with now grown-up kids, please let us know. Some of us are hanging on to special books, clothing, games and videos with a particular connection to Down Under.

Peter Jackson’s Shining Star

Photo: www.dailymail.co.uk.

Photo: www.dailymail.co.uk.

Oscar-winning New Zealand filmmaker Peter Jackson is saying goodbye to Middle-earth, but he’ll always have a place in Hollywood.

The director and producer of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings trilogies was joined by his family, colleagues, film executives and fans on Monday morning as he received his well-earned star on Hollywood Boulevard. Continue reading