The cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne is inarguably the premiere location for film fans down under (no matter what anyone from Sydney tells you). These weekly posts will take you beyond the multiplex and highlight the Top 5 movie alternatives worth checking out each week.
1. Picnic at Hanging Rock (ACMI)
One of the quintessential films of the Australian New Wave, Peter Weir’s eerie tale of three missing schoolgirls at the turn of last century should be compulsory viewing for film buffs, but especially Australian ones. Haunting to this day, the dreamlike cinematography is made for the big screen. (Saturday, January 26)
2. Gentlemen Prefer Blondes // Two for the Road (The Astor)
After you’re finished with Picnic in the afternoon, why not hop straight on the train at Flinders St and head down to The Astor for this double feature that highlights the work of two of the most luminous leading ladies in Hollywood history. First up it’s Marilyn Monroe in Howard Hawks’ classic musical Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, followed by Audrey Hepburn in Stanley Donen’s bittersweet comedy-drama Two for the Road. (Saturday, January 26)
3. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (The Astor)
Often maligned as a lesser entry in the Indiana Jones series (of which there are only three, as far as I’m concerned), Temple of Doom may actually be my favourite of the lot. Short Round and Cate Capshaw not withstanding, the movie is genuinely frightening – something I always like in my family films –, and contains some of the most thrilling action Spielberg has ever put to screen. (Sun Jan 27 – Sat Feb 2)
4. Muriel’s Wedding (Rooftop Cinema)
Another local classic, albeit one without quite the same prestige as Picnic, P. J. Hogan’s ABBA infused misfit comedy stars Toni Collette in her star making role as Muriel, a frumpy small town dreamer who moves to the big city in her quest to find a husband. A great programming choice by the open air Rooftop Bar & Cinema; comedies always play better with a crowd. (Sunday, January 27)
5. Zoolander (Moonlight Cinema)
Speaking of comedies, another great outdoor option this week will take place in the Royal Botanical Gardens, where the good folks at Moonlight Cinema will be screening the eternally quotable Ben Still comedy, Zoolander. Food and drink are available on site as always, or you can bring your own. (Thursday, January 31)
