Never underestimate the power of an exquisite piece of art to transform any space. Here, we have rounded up a selection of refined masterpieces that will challenge your perspective and deliver depth and dynamism to any space, each one destined to remain an interesting addition to your home for years to come.
Soul IV by Ray Haydon, 2020. $39,500. Marine grade stainless steel, 1200 x 600 x 600mm. From Sanderson Contemporary
Anchor by Tia Ansell, 2023. $4,500. Acrylic on cotton and acrylic handwoven weaving in aluminium frame, 640 x 500 x 40mm. From {Suite} Gallery
Freshwater Nasturtiums by Nick Herd, 2021. $4,500. Oil on canvas, 610 x 762mm. From Parlour Projects
Endless Summer-Infinity Work by Max Patte, 2023. $65,000. Automotive paints, acrylic paints, clear cast acrylic, epoxy resin, clear coat, custom board, 2 way glass, mirror, LEDs, 24v power supply, electrical cable, 240v plug, 1800 Ø x 72mm, 114kg. From Lightworx Queenstown
Hidden Gems by Katherine Throne, 2023. $3,050. Oil on canvas400 x 500mm, framed. From Sanderson Contemporary
Inversion by Roger Murray, 2023. $4,700. Resin, pearl lacquer 600 x 600 x 45mm. Edition of 5. From {Suite} Gallery
#1 by Zara Dolan, 2021. $2,950. Monotype print, 650 x 450mm, framed. From Sanderson Contemporary
Untitled by Antonio Murado, 2022. $30,000. Oil on linen, 1650 x 1140mm. From Gow Langsford Gallery
Untitled Yellow Square IV by Robert Moreland, 2023. $27,000. Drop cloth on wooden panel with acrylic paint, tacks & leather hinges, 1016 x 1016 x 152.40mm. From Starkwhite
Glacier Country III by Stephen Ellis, 2023. $4,500. Soot on Hahnemuhle paper, 560 x 440mm. From Sanderson Contemporary
Kui & Papa by Billy McQueen, 2023. $2,150. Oil & Rabbit Skin, Gesso on Canvas, 470 x 460mm. From Föenander Galleries
Reprise by Freeman White, 2023. $8,500. Oil on linen, 420mm x 620mm, framed. From Sanderson Contemporary
A great tradition long enjoyed by royalty and the aristocratic elite, afternoon tea has, over the years, become a veritable culinary art form. From the small pastries to the savoury treats to the moreish sweet indulgences, afternoon tea is the perfect way to bridge lunch and dinner (without ruining your appetite for either) and is a decidedly elegant way to celebrate a special occasion, or to simply while away a few hours in delectable fashion. All that said, nowhere does afternoon tea better than the Park Hyatt Auckland, and if you haven’t yet tried its famous offering, we think now is the perfect time.
Park Hyatt Auckland’s Afternoon Tea is an elevated affair, where deliciously savoury bites like parsnip gratin with truffle potato cream, blue cheese brûlée with wild mushroom and bacon crumb, confit duck with slaw in a rosemary bun sit alongside sweet delights like petit gateaux with yuzu curd, bergamot and white chocolate, dark chocolate Jerusalem artichoke and caramel tart and brioche doughnut with lime curd custard. A lineup that would please any gourmand, this Afternoon Tea offers an array of flavours, is available with fully vegetarian or vegan menus too and is a testament to the clever culinary forces at play here.
Available at Park Hyatt Auckland’s The Living Room, a comfortable, cosy space in which you can relax, unwind and take in the stunning views across Auckland’s waterfront, Afternoon Tea is the perfect way to spend a few hours. And with school holidays now in full swing, it could be the perfect experience to fill an afternoon or two with the kids in tow.
Park Hyatt Auckland’s Afternoon Tea is available from Thursday to Sunday, between 12pm and 3:30pm. Book here.
Drawing inspiration from traditional terrazzo tiling and other geometric shapes in nature, this eclectic trend is all about angles and lines.
Taking the idea of the terrazzo tile, with its randomly fragmented look and often vibrant colours and transposing it into other interior ideas, meet the new trend spotlighting shapes in the home. From beautifully-curved lines in elegant sofas to angular lighting and triangular coffee tables, pieces like these will add depth and dimension to your living space, and prove why it pays to know your geometry.
To achieve this aesthetic at home, don’t be afraid to play with shapes. From long lines to sinuous curves to sharp angles, this look will add dimension to any space.
Get The Look
The Pacific House by Alexander &CO. featuring the Trapeze lights by Apparatus from ECC
One of the world’s most eminent women in the contemporary design realm, Faye Toogood is a multi-disciplinarian who is well-versed in creating products that manage to be both intriguing and highly desirable. Based in London, the British designer’s eponymous company Toogood spans fashion, furniture, interior design and both functional and decorative objects.
While she is untrained, beginning her career as an editor at The World of Interiors magazine, she has honed a shrewd eye for pieces that demonstrate a focus on materiality and experimentation. No doubt, those with even a passing interest in design trends will have seen the Toogood Roly-Poly chair in all its Neotenic glory appear in multiple shades throughout luxury interior projects worldwide.
Faye Toogood.
The latest Toogood piece we’re enchanted by is the Puffy Lounge Chair, available in New Zealand from Tim Webber. Designed for European brand and platform Hem, it is an exercise in contrasts — both plump and structured, cocooning and strong. Comprising a tubular steel frame as its base, its quilt-like upholstery spills generously over the edges.
Taking practicality into consideration, the soft upper is detachable, and can be rendered in varying neutral fabrication shades to suit any interior configuration, from black leather to cream canvas and brown bouclé. The frame can also be powder-coated or sand-blasted to complement or contrast with the upholstery.
Like a warm hug, this is a chair that immediately invites the user to curl up within it, or perhaps drape one’s legs over one side. As Toogood describes it, the Puffy Lounge Chair has “a dependable durability coupled with all the enveloping warmth of a familiar duvet”. Luckily, this comfort doesn’t mean aesthetics are sacrificed in the slightest, meaning this is one piece of sensational seating that rests among the best of both worlds.
Known for the way it always draws a convivial (and very well-dressed) crowd, the annual Melbourne Cup is undeniably a celebratory affair. And while the actual event isn’t taking place until Tuesday the 7th of November, so popular are the parties for its exciting races that Auckland’s best bars and restaurants often release tickets to their Melbourne Cup events now, all of which tend to promptly sell out. Here, we round up all the best places in Auckland to celebrate the big race, and we suggest securing your tickets now, lest you miss out.
Sìso
Food, fashion and fillies collide at Sìso’s epic Melbourne Cup celebration. Starting at 11:30, guests will be greeted with a crisp glass of Mumm Rosé Champagne and treated to a delicious oyster bar before enjoying a three-course set menu. The big races will be shown live, of course, and there will also be a range of other entertainment by The Swingin’ Duet, featuring Peter Urlich and Lewis McCallum, following which Peter Urlich will take to the DJ decks to spin a selection of dance-floor classics to entice diners out of their seats. Attendees are encouraged to pull out all the sartorial stops as there will be a $1,000 Fashion in the Field voucher up for grabs, presented by lauded local fashion designer Caitlin Crisp. Tickets are $220 per person, tables will be configured in groups of six, eight, 10 or 12 and bookings are essential, so email the Sìso team here to secure your spot now.
Bivacco, Non Solo Pizza, MoVida & Bar Non Solo
A contingent of Savor Group’s most popular restaurants are promising to put on Melbourne Cup celebrations for the ages. From Bivacco’s sun-drenched, waterfront party to Non Solo Pizza’s long lunch to the elevated affairs taking place at MoVida and Bar Non Solo, there’s something in this line-up for everyone, but with tickets already running out the door, we suggest booking with haste. See here to learn more about all of Savor Group’s Melbourne Cup offerings.
Non Solo Pizza
Park Hyatt Auckland
Mark the ‘race that stops a nation’ at the Park Hyatt Auckland where, overlooking Auckland’s sparking harbour, you can celebrate in fine form, whether you’re looking for a fun and intimate afternoon with friends or a larger celebration. Offering live coverage of all the races from Melbourne, a raft of entertainment, Fashion in the Field spot prizes, a delicious four-course lunch, and Champagne on arrival, Park Hyatt Auckland has the perfect spaces to accommodate an unforgettable afternoon. On from 12:30pm on Tuesday the 7th of November, tickets to Park Hyatt’s celebrations are $185 per person and can be booked here.
Esther
Experience the epitome of Melbourne Cup glamour at Esther, the exceptional restaurant set on the ground floor of the QT Auckland. From Mumm Champagne on arrival to ‘Fashions on the QT Field’, encouraging guests to flaunt their individual race day style with daring fascinators or floral ensembles, Esther is really setting the stage for a day of unparalleled opulence. Enjoy a four-course long lunch feast comprising Esther’s signature favourites, perfectly complemented by expertly-curated pours by the venue’s Director of Champagne and watch all the Cup action live on screen, all while being immersed in what is shaping up to be a fun, frivolous and unforgettable afternoon, running from late morning to early evening. Tickets are $149 per person and can be secured here.
SkyBar
Take your Melbourne Cup celebrations to new heights at the incredible SkyBar, set on the 50th floor of the Sky Tower. Promising a luxurious twist on race-day festivities, guests will be greeted with a glass of Moët & Chandon Brut on arrival, followed by an exceptional ‘Sky Tea’ experience, comprising 10 exquisite culinary creations designed to delight your senses. As attendees enjoy delicate finger sandwiches, delicious pastries, and more, DJ Karn Hall will spin some sweet melodies to provide a vibrant ambience and set the stage for an afternoon of Melbourne Cup excitement. There will also be plenty of live race coverage and of course, those dressed to impress will go in the draw to win an array of fantastic spot prizes. Tickets for SkyBar’s Melbourne Cup Sky Tea are $105 per person, so giddy up and secure your place at this elevated affair by booking here.
Cibo
Head to Parnell stalwart Cibo for an elegant afternoon of Melbourne Cup fun. From 12:30pm, attendees will be able to immerse themselves in a convivial atmosphere of fun, frivolity and delicious fare thanks to Cibo’s five-course lunch, flowing Champagne, spot prizes throughout the day, live races, betting on-site and more. Tickets for Cibo’s celebration are $189 per person and can be secured here.
art direction — Amber Armitage/ Marigold Photography — Wendy Fenwick/ Flash Studios
Meet the bold new interior trend that has us harbouring a rose-tinted outlook on the season ahead.
In an audacious move, it seems that the tonal trends have shifted from the cooler end of the spectrum (where hues of blue and green sit), to the warmer — resulting in a proliferation of a red and pink colour palette in the home.
Asking why we shouldn’t have a red feature wall in our living room, and encouraging us to create unique, tonal spaces, this trend is certainly not for the faint of heart, which is why we turned to the experts at Resene for guidance on how to execute it properly.
Here, the colour professionals suggest using tones like Resene Pioneer Red and Resene Awaken (both pictured in the brand’s SpaceCote Flat paint) to cultivate an inviting, warm and modern ambience. Pair with neutral colours like Resene Athena, and alongside timber floors and furnishings to make the vibrant palette feel more tactile and liveable.
*The living room features the Ploum sette by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec and the Shazia rug by Mona Ronteix from Ligne Roset, #31 artwork by Simone Rosenbauer from Sanderson, the Plissée floor lamp by Sebastian Herkner for ClassiCon from Matisse, the Suni bottle vase from Smith & Caughey’s, Luisa Acqua Glassware from Tessuti and a curved tray painted in Resene Athena, stylists own
**The nook features the Edvin plant stand, Aube console table and Shazia rug from Ligne Roset, Entice by Katherine Thronefrom Sanderson, Wooden sphere, Opal Glass bowl, Venus Head and Suni bottle from Smith & Caughey’s, Luisa Acqua Glassware, Broste Classic candle and Peggy candlestick from Tessuti
Whether you’re embarking on a weekend road trip or are simply looking for something to shorten your commute, dance to in your living room or play while you’re in the shower, we have rounded up some of the best new and noteworthy podcasts and albums to listen to now.
Here, host Omar El Akkad takes us on a captivating journey of imagination and contemplation in each thought-provoking episode of Without. This extraordinary podcast explores a world without the things we cherish or need, from lost species and natural wonders to nuclear weapons and more. It will open your mind to boundless possibilities.
I’m The Worst with Claire Hooper
Offering a hilarious and poignant look at the human experience, host Claire Hooper undertakes a series of conversations with a curated selection of intriguing individuals who speak about times when they were the worst. Delve into the hidden moments of their lives, igniting a captivating exploration of the complex human experience.
The Coldest Case in Laramie
Embark on a chilling journey into the depths of a decades-old mystery with Kim Barker, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter from The New York Times. In this gripping podcast, Barker delves into an unsolved murder with an unexpected twist that haunted her high school years in picturesque Laramie, Wyoming.
The Set
Step into 1980s New York City and the ‘crack era’ filled with violence and corruption. This podcast by Emmy-winning creator Zak Levitt delivers an unflinching documentary, that unveils the jaw-dropping story of the NYPD’s biggest corruption scandal, exposing the dark underbelly of law enforcement.
Don’t Panic with Anthony Atamanuik
Joined by a cast of hilarious co-hosts and comedy luminaries, Anthony Atamanuik delves into the realm of outlandish predicaments and irrational fears, to offer sage advice on surviving everything from killer bee attacks to quicksand quagmires. Escape into the realm of the improbable, where laughter reigns supreme and discover the secret to surviving every worst-case scenario.
Spy Valley: An Engineer’s Nuclear Betrayal
Taking us back to when Silicon Valley against the backdrop of the Cold War’s climax, this podcast tells the remarkable (and true) story of James Harper, an engineer whose insatiable ambition jeopardised national security. Lose yourself in this gripping tale of intrigue and espionage, nuclear secrets, double agents, and the relentless pursuit of truth, all narrated by James Harper himself.
Strike Force Five
Listeners are invited to an exclusive rendezvous co-hosted by the kings of late-night television, Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers and John Oliver. This unprecedented podcast promises an intimate glimpse into the world of celebrity, Hollywood, late-night and more, and was set up to support the hosts’ dedicated writing staff while they remain on strike.
Good Bad Billionaire
In this intriguing podcast, Simon Jack and Zing Tsjeng unravel the fortunes of the world’s wealthiest elite. With a discerning eye, they explore the stories behind the fortunes, probing the ethical and moral dimensions that define them. Join in their quest to discern whether these financial titans are virtuous icons or mere billionaires in a podcast that explores opulence, ambition and conscience, and will challenge your perception of wealth.
New & Noteworthy Albums
Kylie Minogue Tension
Marking an exciting new chapter in her iconic career, Kylie Minogue’s new album shines a light on the singer’s signature style and energy. Collaborating with longtime partner Richard ‘Biff’ Stannard and Duck Blackwell, Minogue has created an album that blends personal reflection, club abandon and melancholic highs to offer a dynamic and captivating listening experience. Fans can anticipate an eclectic mix of songs that celebrate individuality while showcasing Minogue’s talent and versatility.
Song to start with: Padam Padam
The Pretenders Relentless
The Pretenders return with their latest album, Relentless, showcasing the dynamic songwriting collaboration between Chrissie Hynde and guitarist James Walbourne. Produced by Dave Wrench, this album boasts a talented lineup known as ‘The Pretenders Collective,’ including James Walbourne, Kris Sonne, Chris Hill, Dave Page and Carwyn Ellis. With its infectious energy and diverse musicality, Relentless solidifies The Pretenders’ enduring presence in the rock music landscape.
Song to start with Let the Sun Come In
Doja Cat Scarlet
Fuelled by a desire to redefine her artistic identity, Doja Cat is steering away from the pop realm that initially garnered her acclaim, to instead, embrace hip hop and R&B. With chart-topping singles like Paint The Town Red igniting anticipation, Scarlet promises to be an opulent soundscape of musical reinvention. As Doja Cat embarks on The Scarlet Tour, the album heralds a new era in her career, solidifying her status as a trailblazing artist.
Song to start with: Paint The Town Red
James Blake Playing Robots Into Heaven
The latest album from James Blake heralds a magnificent return to his electronic roots. This album, born from modular synth improvisations during his tours, showcases a mesmerising fusion of dubstep, techno, and house, enveloped by the artist’s signature melancholic allure. Blake’s vocals shine, crafting evocative narratives and offering a captivating blend of raw energy and sonic innovation. A release that proves how Blake remains at the top of his game.
Showcasing the transformative power of nature in colourful carats and spectacular stones, Gucci’s new high jewellery collection, Allegoria, has been meticulously crafted to take us on a jaw-dropping journey through each of the four seasons.
Unveiled at a special event in Florence, Gucci’s exquisite high jewellery collection is an allegory of the cycle of the four seasons. Beginning with spring, the awakening of nature is expressed through precious stones in lively, fresh hues, reminiscent of blooming flowers. Summertime is next, indicated by a plethora of emeralds and Paraiba tourmalines that radiate the essence of the warm season. Pulling back for autumn, the season of calm before winter sets in, the jewellery carries stones of a more muted, warm palette, where yellow sapphires, pink tourmalines and mandarin garnets deliver a delicate softness. Winter arrives with iridescent opals, European-cut antique diamonds and stones that twinkle with subtle colours, signalling the closure of the cycle and the promise, once more, of a new beginning.
Explore the sensory journey of Gucci Allegoria below.
Gucci Allegoria Bracelets, Lionhead ring, and earrings
You may have sampled your fair share of Korean fried chicken and bibimbap but what about tteokbokki and sundaeguk? In Auckland we are lucky enough to be spoilt with an excellent range of Korean eateries, serving up time-honoured and contemporary dishes alike. From the truly authentic to modern interpretations, these are the best Korean restaurants in town.
Helmed by Auckland hospitality veteran David Lee, Aigo was a concept born from his desire to put Korean cuisine on the mainstream map. And really, that’s exactly what he has done. Aigo was opened as delicious noodle spot on Ponsonby Road, and six months later, Lee opened a second outpost in Newmarket. The food at both spots is undeniably delicious, with the Ponsonby location more focused on an array of mouthwatering noodle dishes (like Mapo Tofu Hand Pulled Noodles with silken tofu and pork in a Sichuan chilli sauce) and the Newmarket outpost offering something slightly different (the Korean barbecue take on T-bone steak served with soy mustard, onion brûlée and confit garlic is out of this world). Whichever location you go to, it’s clear the Aigo team’s dedication to reimagining classic Korean dishes and flavours for the discerning modern palette. With an ever-evolving offering and a desire to keep pushing culinary boundaries, Aigo has become one of our absolute favourite places for a delicious and satiating bite.
Left: The Place’s Bibimbap Right: Aigo Newmarket’s T-bone Steak
If you’re in search of authenticity, look no further than The Place in Takapuna. This restaurant has it all, from classic Korean fried chicken to more adventurous dishes like pork back-bone potato soup (a very common delicacy in South Korea). The Place is a go-to spot for Korean families as the wholesome and hearty dishes accurately reflect what one might find on the streets of Seoul. We suggest you gather some friends, go in a group and order the gul bossam. Enough to feed at least four, it consists of a large platter of pork belly, lettuce wraps, spicy kimchi and comes with fresh oyster salad.
Started by renowned Korean chef Jason Kim (known for his work at Commercial Bay’s Gochu and also his tenures in the kitchens of Sidart, Cassia, The Grove and Clooney) Tokki is a delicious restaurant and wine bar serving the kind of Korean food you’re unlikely to have ever tried before. Born in Korea but raised in New Zealand, Kim creates cuisine that is beloved for the way that it straddles the two cultures in which he was raised — where authentic bites are delivered in a contemporary way, and fresh New Zealand produce is harnessed to create truly unique dishes. Tokki’s menu heroes pared-back but delightfully inspired cuisine that puts an unexpected twist on authentic flavours, while its inviting space, set in the heart of Milford’s bustling main street, offers a calm, refined haven. Kim describes the Tokki menu as authentic fare, where the food offers a more playful take on Korean cuisine without losing its refined edge. And with an ever-changing seasonal menu to reflect Kim’s focus on fresh ingredients, it’s definitely worth heading to this spot more than once — no two times will be the same. Ultimately, Tokki offers considered and elevated traditional dishes that reimagine classic street-food tropes and snacks that speak to the chef’s heritage. And trust us when we say that everything here is utterly delicious.
When Gochu landed in Commercial Bay, it quickly carved out a reputation for serving some of the tastiest Korean fare in town. More contemporary than traditional, with cuisine described as ‘New Korean’, Gochu offers the perfect dining experience for both seasoned fans of Korean flavour and novices looking to whet their appetite. The cold noodles are excellent, as is the famous fried chicken (which packs a serious spice punch). The Gochu cordon bleu with crumbed pork, raclette cheese and spicy Worcestershire is also a showstopper, while the pillowy-soft milk buns filled with spicy pork and kimchi and served with beurre blanc are a cult-favourite, known to regularly sell out within the first few hours of service. With Co-Owner and Executive Chef, Nathan Lord at the helm, Gochu continues to go from strength to strength, and is always at the top of our list when dining downtown.
Don’t be deterred by the location of this restaurant — Tae Neung is the real deal. Tucked away next to the Albany Rosedale Motel, this is without a doubt one of Auckland’s best Korean BBQ restaurants, even people from the other side of town venture over just to satisfy their Korean cuisine cravings. The menu offers a range of different cuts of meat, but it’s the fresh beef short ribs and marinated beef short ribs you need to go for. End your feast with the mulnaengmyun, a cold buckwheat noodle dish that is unbelievably refreshing and cleansing on the palate.
Described as putting the ‘Soul from Seoul into Ponsonby’, Ockhee has injected plenty of flavour into Auckland’s most popular strip since it opened in 2020. Owners Paul Minkyu Lee and Lisa Lee have taken authentic Korean food and added familiar Kiwi-style elements to create fresh, harmonious plates. With a menu that boasts as many thoughtful vegetarian options as it does meat dishes, Ockhee’s delicious offering is a must-try. Som highlights include the Japchae Noodle, comprising kumara noodles, capsicum, carrot, mushroom, onion and sesame oil (and a dressing that packs a punch of fresh, authentic flavour), the Bul Bo Ssam, which sees melt-in-your-mouth, slow-braised pork, flame grilled in Ockhee’s signature spicy sauce and of course, the Dak Gang Jeong, Ockhee’s take on Korean Fried Chicken served with either sweet chilli and roasted peanut glaze or spicy soy and sesame glaze. All of this deliciousness is made even better served with a natty wine from Ockhee’s curated list.
Nestled amongst avocado on toast and eggs benedict, you’ll find modern Korean food at its most creative at all-day eatery Simon & Lee. The menu showcases classic Korean ingredients and cooking techniques in a clever, approachable and undeniably delicious way. Favourites include the bulgogi spaghetti with grilled beef, shiitake mushrooms and glistening egg yolk, along with any of the dolsot dishes (served in a sizzling stone pot). The fried chicken is a signature for a reason, with flavours like wasabi soy and danger spicy to pique your palate.
Another hotspot for Korean BBQ is Red Pig in the CBD. Staying true to its name, this restaurant specialises in cuts of pork. With charcoal grills on each table, a smoky aroma is infused into every succulent slice of pork and works to cut through the meat’s richness. Although the frozen cuts are available (and cheaper), always go for the fresh ones as the flavours are more vibrant and the overall experience will be more enjoyable. Other cuts you could try are the neck, jowl and even the intestines if you’re wanting to take yourself out of your comfort zone.
Soups and stews are probably the most prevalent dishes in Korean cuisine, even more so than fried chicken and BBQ meats. The soups at Teolbo go beyond the regular. Think hearty lamb, whole chicken with ginseng and arguably the most popular, blood sausage soup. Also known as ‘sundaeguk,’ this soup comprises a deep bone broth, with sausages filled with glass noodles and served with pork offal and offcuts.
Offering a slightly more refined yet very authentic Korean dining experience is Jami in Wairau Valley. From the presentation of the dishes to the ambience of the restaurant, Jami proves that Korean cuisine isn’t limited to cheap prices and cheerful environments. Jami is also one of the rare restaurants in town that serves ganjang saewoo, which translates to raw prawns. This may sound odd to some, but if you’re a seafood fanatic, you can’t go past this one. The raw prawns boast plump textures and have been soaked in sweet soy sauce to cut through the ocean flavour.
When it comes to a fun-filled Korean dining experience, Pocha is our favourite place to go for a spot of soju on the weekend. Soju is the number one Korean alcoholic beverage and we are warning you — this stuff is strong. As food is mandatory when drinking soju, Pocha’s menu features the best of Korean ‘pub grub’. From almond cornflake fried chicken to tteokbokki (rice cakes in spicy sauce with melted cheese), everything that comes out of Pocha’s kitchen is guaranteed to impress.
Emerging from the depths of our Southern Hemisphere winter and into the promise of Spring comes with it (alongside a general feeling of optimism) a raft of new series to stream and films to watch, as the Northern Hemisphere prepares to hunker down. Despite the ongoing strikes, there are still a number of captivating productions being released in the coming months, from gripping dramas to side-splitting comedies and big-name blockbusters. Here is everything to add to your watch list.
In this gripping film, a woman who loses her job finds solace at a failing pharmaceutical start-up which (unbeknownst to her) is actually a treacherous racketeering scheme. Starring Emily Blunt at her very best, alongside Chris Evans and an incredible ensemble cast including Andy Garcia, Catherine O’Hara, Jay Douglas and more, Pain Hustlers is set to be a must-watch. Helmed by the visionary director David Yates (of the latter Harry Potter films), Pain Hustlers takes its inspiration from the pages of the 2022 book of the same name by Evan Hughes. The screenplay, masterfully crafted by Wells Tower, weaves together suspense, intrigue and human vulnerability into a tapestry of crime, drama and hilarity that will leave audiences wanting more.
Watch now on Netflix
Maestro
This much-anticipated American biographical drama, directed by Bradley Cooper and backed by the creative genius of Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg and Todd Phillips, brings to life the captivating life of Leonard Bernstein. As a conductor, composer, pianist and humanitarian, Bernstein’s utterly important and inspiring story unfolds on screen with Cooper taking on the titular role. A must for any musician and anyone with a penchant for social justice.
Watch now on Netflix
The Killer
Prepare for a pulse-pounding ride into the psyche of a solitary and relentless assassin in The Killer. Directed by the masterful David Fincher and brought to life through a screenplay by Andrew Kevin Walker, this upcoming American psychological action thriller navigates the chilling descent of a methodical hitman into the depths of his own mind. Based on the gripping French graphic novel series by Alexis Nolent and Luc Jacamon, The Killer lures you into a world of suspense and intrigue, where every shadow holds a secret and every move keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Watch now on Netflix
Scrapper
Full of magic and self-discovery, this thought-provoking and imaginative movie is centred around Georgie, a self-reliant 12-year-old girl who lives alone in London. Her unorthodox activities include stealing and selling bikes, all while navigating a home filled with mystical elements, such as talkative spiders and a peculiar tower growing from her mother’s bedroom. However, when her estranged father unexpectedly appears, Georgie is compelled to confront the truth behind her extraordinary circumstances.
Watch nowin Cinemas
Priscilla
This enchanting new film takes us on a journey where Elvis Presley (Jacob Elordi), transforms from a meteoric rock ‘n’ roll sensation into an unexpected confidant and gentle companion in the eyes of teenager Priscilla Beaulieu (Cailee Spaeny). Set against the backdrop of their blossoming connection, Priscilla, directed and co-produced by the talented Sofia Coppola, beautifully brings to life the pages of the 1985 memoir, Elvis and Me, by Priscilla Presley and Sandra Harmon.
Coming soon to Cinemas 27th Oct
A Haunting in Venice
The highly-anticipated third instalment of Kenneth Branagh’s modern Hercule Poirot series is based on Agatha Christie’s novel Hallowe’en Party. Here, Branagh once again takes on the dual role of director and lead, showcasing his stunning portrayal of the renowned detective. In this latest adaptation, set in post-World War II Italy, Poirot’s hawk-eye detective skills are put to the test as he is pulled into a world of séances and haunted palazzos, where a murder unfolds, forcing Poirot out of retirement.
Watch nowin Cinemas
The Creator
Immersing viewers in a dystopian battleground where humanity’s survival hangs in the balance, The Creator is a new sci-fi thriller that takes us on a journey through a future war between humans and advanced AI. As Joshua (a hardened ex-special forces agent) is tasked with hunting down the enigmatic Creator, the film keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, propelled by a sense of urgency and a looming threat that could shape the fate of mankind.
Coming soon to Cinemas 28th Sept
TV Shows to get hooked on
Lessons in Chemistry
Based on the bestselling book of the same name, this upcoming series follows whip-smart scientist Elizabeth Zott (Brie Larson) who must fight for herself against societal constraints as she straddles the captivating worlds of television and science.
Watch now on Apple TV+
Ahsoka
This much-awaited new limited Star Wars series is set in the aftermath of Return of the Jedi and weaves the narratives of The Mandalorian and Star Wars Rebels. Led by Rosario Dawson, the series delves deeper into Ahsoka Tano’s enigmatic persona as she confronts a new threat to the galaxy.
Watch now on Disney+
The Continental
This spin-off from the world of John Wick centres around notorious hotel chain, The Continental, that serves as a clandestine haven for the criminal elite. This riveting film delves into a captivating world where hitmen and murderers converge in a neutral territory.
Watch now on Flicks
Lupin
If you haven’t watched Lupin yet, this is your sign to start before season three comes out. The new season promises to continue its gripping narrative, as the ever-elusive Assane Diop’s quest for justice and redemption takes intriguing new turns with fresh adversaries and untold secrets.
Watch now on Netflix
The Morning Show
The hotly-anticipated third season of The Morning Show promises an engaging continuation of the acclaimed drama. Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon are back as Jon Hamm joins the cast and Julianna Margulies returns, adding further depth to this stellar ensemble.
Watch now on Apple TV+
Only Murders in the Building
The brilliant trio of Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez have reunited to bring us another gripping season of Emmy-nominated Only Murders in the Building. Taking us back to the Aconia for another slew of mysterious deaths, this new season is set to be the best yet.
Watch now on Disney+
Sex Education
In the fourth and final season of this wildly popular show, viewers can anticipate a bittersweet culmination of the refreshingly honest series renowned for its candid exploration of sexuality and thought-provoking narratives. While some core cast members have left the swan song of Sex Education promises to deliver a satisfying conclusion to its groundbreaking run.
Watch now onNetflix
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24-YonhNS0Y
Painkiller
This powerful and thought-provoking new drama series sheds light on the devastating impact of the opioid crisis in America. Matthew Broderick stars as Head of Purdue Pharma, Richard Sackler, in the controversial and gripping story of his company’s role in the rise of OxyContin.
Watch now on Netflix
Who is Erin Carter?
From the team who produced The Crown comes a thrilling, new female-led drama series about British teacher Erin Carter, who after being caught up in a supermarket robbery in Spain, reveals her secret identity as a formidable fighter. Through eight gripping episodes, the mystery only further unravels, prompting the question: How far will Erin go to protect her true nature?
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