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American Cherry, is a poignant coming-of-age story that explores the themes of love, longing, and self-discovery. Set in small town America, the film revolves around the romance between a mysterious, troubled boy (Hart Denton) and an impressionable girl (Sarah May Sommers). As their relationship progresses, the boy's love turns into an obsession as he tries to protect her from her dysfunctional family. This is a debut film by writer and director Marcella Cytrynowicz, with stunning cinematography by Gus Bendinelli adds to the film's overall atmosphere and mood. Using vintage and prime lenses on a Panavision Millennilim, Bendinelli captures the film's haunting beauty on Kodak Vison 500T Color Negative Film. American Cherry is not just a love story, but also an exploration of grief and the consequences of leaving mental illness untreated. Watch the now on Apple TV.

Anne Kathryn Parma directs The Dreamer Examines His Pillow by John Patrick Shanley. In a visiting production at the Odyssey Theatre, presented by PLP Productions. The play that explores the intricate dance between love and lies, the roles of choice, fate and destiny in romance, and the effects of age on passion. In this dream-comedy, we see possibilities are endless for two people in an ever changing world, if they are open to them. A small cast and a simple set provide the necessary canvas to get lost in Shanleys' evocative and immersive dialogue. In the first scene, Donna's (Pamela Portnoy) rage and Tommy's (James Liddell) cool detachment are counterposed with Dad’s (Eric Larsen) drunken belligerence, while the final scene brings these individuals together in an enlivened discussion of life, responsibility and love. Pungent, thought-provoking, original, poetic… and leading by stylised, fantasticated ways to genuinely startling illuminations - NY Magazine Anne Kathryn Parma recent credits include (The Diary of Anne Frank, On an Average Day, and Synthesis). Her ensemble cast includes Pamela Portnoy (Sherlock Holmes: The Final Adventure, Rum and Cookies, and for television, Married with Secrets and Nova Vita) in the leading role of Donna. James Liddell (Two Ways to Go West, The Tomorrow Job, and Liza Liza: Skies Are Grey, On an Average Day) in the leading role of Tommy. Eric Larson (Time Stands Still, Fifty Words, Blackbird and Toe to Toe) supports in the role of Dad. John Patrick Shanley is an American playwright, screenwriter, and director. He won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for the film Moonstruck. His play, Doubt: A Parable, won the 2005 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the 2005 Tony Award for Best Play; he wrote and directed the film adaptation and earned a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. Playing at Odyssey Theatre 2055 S. Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles Running February 17 - February 26 The Odyssey continues to offer world-class live theatre experiences in its three-theatre complex. Whether it be an original new play, a bold re-envisioned classic, or something hot off the international theatre circuit, the Odyssey strives to be provocative, mind-bending and emotionally potent. As an artist-run venture, this unique company is always multicultural in both intent and practice, serving the wonderfully diverse ethnic mix of the Los Angeles community… both of artists and audiences. Get your tickets Find out more BLINDED BY RAINBOWS® new stratospheres of storytelling

Larsen Thompson's debut music single 'Roots' showcases her multi-talented artistry a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry. The multi-talented actress, dancer, and model has just released her debut music single titled 'Roots', which is already making waves in the music world. Thompson's impressive career began as a dancer in music videos for some of the biggest names in the industry, including Christina Aguilera, Sia, and Katy Perry. Her exceptional talent caught the attention of the public when a video of her dancing to Beyoncé’s 'Run The World' went viral online in 2016. Since then, Thompson has continued to shine in her craft. In addition to her success as a dancer, Thompson has also made a name for herself in the acting world. She had a recurring role in the thriller television series, The Midnight Club, on Netflix and will star in the upcoming feature film Horrorscope and American Cherry. Now, with the release of her debut music single, Thompson is showcasing her multi-talented artistry to the world. 'Roots' is a powerful song that reflects Thompson's journey as an artist and her deep connection to her roots. Roots’ is a message about embracing our individual uniqueness. Sometimes we let our insecurities drive our decisions or setbacks in life, and it’s time we get grounded in who we are and see our imperfections as our perfection - Larsen Thompson's debut music release is a testament to her dedication to her craft and her ability to excel in multiple areas of the entertainment industry. With her undeniable talent, it's no surprise that Larsen Thompson is quickly becoming a rising star to watch. Listen to 'Roots' here.

SPA Announces Mentors for Ones to Watch Cohort: Accelerating the Careers of Australia's Next Generation Content Creators. Screen Producers Australia has announced the mentors for its highly anticipated Ones to Watch Cohort, a program aimed at nurturing the next generation of Australian producing talent. The selected mentors are some of Australia’s most prolific and experienced producers, who will help develop the business acumen of the Ones to Watch participants, fostering their growth and development as they build their slates. The 12 Ones To Watch creatives will have the opportunity to learn from the likes of Industry leaders including; Tony Ayres, Rosemary Blight and Kylie Du Fresne (Goalpost Pictures), Joanna Werner (Werner Film), Polly Staniford and Angie Fielder (Aquarius Films) and many more, as they build their projects in the lead-up to pitching opportunities at Screen Forever. The Ones to Watch Cohort is an exciting opportunity for emerging industry creative leaders to hone their skills and gain valuable experience. The program is designed to accelerate the careers of Australia’s next generation content creators, offering specially curated development sessions and industry opportunities. The ultimate goal is to prepare these talented individuals for pitching to network executives and distributors at Screen Forever Market in May 2023. We are thrilled to have such a talented and diverse group of mentors on board for the Ones to Watch Cohort. With the help of these amazing mentors, we’re confident that they will be a huge success - CEO Matthew Deaner The Ones to Watch Cohort is just one of the many initiatives undertaken by SPA to support and nurture the Australian screen industry. With the announcement of these highly respected mentors, it’s clear that the program is poised to have a significant impact on the careers of those lucky enough to be selected. The list of Ones To Watch cohort members and their respective mentors: Aven Yap - Joanna Werner - Werner Film Productions Bethany Bruce - Charlotte Wheaton & Nick Batzias - GoodThing Productions Chanel Bowen - Rosemary Blight & Kylie Du Fresne - Goalpost Pictures Christopher Amos - Tony Ayres - Tony Ayres Productions Cyna Strachan - Alastair McKinnon - Matchbox Pictures Debbie Zhou - Rachel Gardner - Curio Pictures Emma Roberts - Nathan Anderson - New Canvas Hanna Griffiths - Polly Staniford & Angie Fielder - Aquarius Films Jason Chong - Micah Hewson - ITV Studios Australia Luke Saliba - Rick Kalowski - Whoa Bandit Productions Sierra Schrader - Michael McMahon - Big & Little Films Tim Russell - Jo Porter - Curio Pictures The list of mentors includes some of the most prolific producing talent in Australia, who will no doubt help the Ones to Watch cohort members to develop their skills and build their careers in the industry. This is a fantastic opportunity for the next generation of content creators to gain invaluable experience and guidance from established industry professionals. We can't wait to see what exciting projects these emerging talents will produce in the future.

Shantaram is an inspiring TV series that showcases the resilience and courage of the human spirit. Based on the bestselling novel by Gregory David Roberts, the show takes us on a journey through the streets of 1980s Bombay, following the story of a fugitive named Lin Ford, played by Charlie Hunnam. Lin's journey begins when he escapes from an Australian prison and travels to Mumbai, hoping to lose himself in the chaos of the city. However, as he navigates the unfamiliar and unpredictable streets of the city, he discovers that he cannot outrun his past. Lin is forced to confront the demons that he has been running from and to make choices that will determine his future. One of the most inspiring aspects of the show is the portrayal of Mumbai and its people. The city is shown as a place of contrasts, where poverty and wealth exist side by side, and where kindness and cruelty coexist. Despite the challenges that they face, the people of Mumbai are shown as resilient and resourceful, finding joy and hope even amid hardship. Lin's journey is also a testament to the power of human connection and the transformative power of love. As he falls for Karla, an enigmatic woman played by Antonia Desplat, Lin must choose between his desire for freedom and his love for her. His choice is complicated by the dangerous world they inhabit, but ultimately, Lin realizes that love is worth the risk and the complications that come with it. The show's production values are top-notch, with stunning visuals that transport the audience to the heart of Mumbai. The performances of the cast, led by Charlie Hunnam, are outstanding, bringing depth and nuance to the complex characters they portray. The show's score, adds an emotional depth to the storytelling. Shantaram is an inspiring TV series that reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love and human connection. It is a show that celebrates the beauty and complexity of Mumbai and its people and encourages us to embrace our own journeys, no matter how difficult they may seem. Shantaram is a must-watch for anyone looking for inspiration and hope in the midst of adversity. Produced by Anonymous Content and Paramount Television Studios and distributed by Apple TV. Watch the trailer

Set in Chicago in 1968, Call Jane is a powerful film that tells the story of Joy, a suburban housewife whose life takes an unexpected turn when she develops a life-threatening heart condition during pregnancy. In her quest to find a safe and legal abortion, Joy is forced to confront the all-male medical establishment and turn to two brave and visionary women, Virginia and Gwen. Directed by Phyllis Nagy, the film captures the essence of the late-sixties social change that was taking place during that time. The use of a 16mm camera, along with the KODAK VISION3 250D and 500T Color Negative Film, helps to create a distinct visual language that highlights the contrasts between the different environments in the story. Elizabeth Banks delivers a powerful performance as Joy, a woman who finds herself in an impossible situation but refuses to give up. Sigourney Weaver and Wunmi Mosaku also deliver excellent performances as the two women who help Joy in her quest for a safe and legal abortion. This is not just a film about women's rights, it's also a film about the power of collective action and the importance of standing up for what is right. Joy's journey is not just about her own survival but also about fighting for the rights of women everywhere. The film is based on true events, which makes it all the more powerful and compelling. A must-watch film that tells a story that is both inspiring and timely. It reminds us of the progress that has been made in women's rights and the work that still needs to be done. With its outstanding cast and masterful direction, Call Jane is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Call Jane was co-written by Hayley Schore and Roshan Sethi, and helmed by Nagy, who, amongst many accolades, received an Oscar nomination, Best Adapted Screenplay, for the 16mm-originated Carol (2015, dir. Todd Haynes, DP Ed Lachman ASC). Watch the trailer

Sydney Women’s International Film Festival is a film festival for women by women, where excellence in female filmmaking is celebrated. Offering networking opportunities and the chance to view some of the greatest films coming from female filmmakers across the world. Join in celebrating female filmmaking excellence at the Sydney Women's International Film Festival Online from November 25th - 28th, 2022 (AEST). FEATURING Official Selection Films On Demand Q&A's with the Filmmakers Informative Talks Networking Sessions Interactive Experiences and more. GUEST SPEAKERS Karen Trang Digital Culture Join an informative session with Vietnamese Producer, Designer and Digital Culture Specialist Karen Trang to discuss the history of digital art and discover the importance of digital and generational communities and what they can do for your filmmaking projects Hanna Griffiths Production & Distribution Learn from award-winning Australian Producer Hanna Griffiths, SPA Ones To Watch. Her experience includes working with Disney, Paramount Studios, RSA Films, Untitled Entertainment and more. Plan how to produce a film and secure worldwide distribution and find out what distributors are looking for. Chiara Gizzi Protecting Your Energy Get inspired with a motivational session by online sensation, Australian Director, Producer, and Actor Chiara Gizzi whose new inspirational Fearless Soul Youtube series are breaking the internet. Learn how to protect your feminine energy in this male dominated industry. Be inspired and motivated. SWIFF 2022 OFFICIAL SELECTION Full lineup of films visit the SWIFF website With such a terrible loss of international women's rights these past 12 months there has never been a more important time for women in film to network, support one another and celebrate female filmmaking excellence in our 22nd century - Clare McCann (Festival Director) Clare McCann is an award-winning Actor and filmmaker specialising in Direction, Writing, Production, Design, Movement, Music and Popular Culture. Clare studied a BA of Dramatic Arts and Theatre Making, and also Certificates in Production, Cinematography, Music Theatre and News Media. Clare has studied at AADA and AFTRS and worked as a Drama, Voice and Movement Tutor at NIDA and was the campaign representative for Save The Roxy Theatre. Clare is known for her break out lead role as Cherry on Foxtel’s Astra award winning series Blog Party which she then joined the writing team of for before creating Foxtel’s What You Want series. Clare’s first fully written, produced, directed, and designed short film, Mirror Girl, was a finalist in the Sci-Fi Film Festival where she was also nominated for Best Performance. Clare was the Creative Director at The Star (casino) where she launched TAO Group's Marquee Sydney, the Dom Perignon Masquerade Ball, the Belvedere Winter Ball, and the Mad Hatter’s Ball to name a few. During her time at The Star Clare also worked Creative Directing commercials, music videos and marketing campaigns with companies such as Coca Cola. Benefited, her feature film writing, producing and directorial debut, premiered at Sydney Indie Film Festival and was also official selection for the 2021 AACTA’s and 2020 Sanctuary Cove International Film Festival and has won a collection of 11 international awards. Benefited is currently streaming on Prime, Tubi and Fetch TV. SWIFF Online Nov 25th-28th AEST Tickets Available Now

Nurturing the next wave of innovative screen storytellers. Meet the 12 producers selected for SPA's Ones To Watch. A program designed to accelerate the careers of rising producers in the Australian screen industry. The program is aimed at producers who are passionate about creating screen stories that reflect First Nations families, extraordinary life stories, off-beat edgy comedies, LGBTQIA+ narratives, female empowerment, and diverse expression. The SPA Ones to Watch program is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious programs for emerging Australian producers. It provides a unique opportunity for these talented individuals to develop their skills and networks, and to gain exposure to leading figures in the screen industry. The high caliber of diverse and exciting applications to the Ones to Watch program is proof that the Australian screen industry is bursting with unique talent and creativity that will continue to delight global audiences in the future - Mathew Deaner SPA Over the coming months, the SPA Ones to Watch will be matched with leading Australian producers for one-on-one meetings and participate in an exclusive webinar series aimed at developing their creative slate and business skills in preparation for next year's Screen Forever conference. As the screen industry continues to evolve and diversify, programs like SPA's Ones to Watch will play a vital role in nurturing and supporting the next generation of Australian screen producers, ensuring that our stories continue to be told and celebrated both locally and internationally. Aven Yap – Nimbus Creative (Qld) Bethany Bruce – Staple Fiction (NSW) Chanel Bowen – Independent (WA) Christopher Amos – Independent (Qld) Cyna Strachan – Mad Ones Films (NSW) Debbie Zhou – Independent (NSW) (above, far right) Emma Roberts – Pernickety Split (Vic) (above, second from left) Hanna Griffiths – Blinded by Rainbows (Vic) Jason Chong – 1UP Digital (SA) (above, second from right) Luke Saliba – Paperless Films (Vic) Sierra Schrader – EveryNameTaken (SA) (above, far left) Tim Russell – Pivot Studios (NSW) The Ones To Watch began in 2013 and since then has allowed producers to build on their skill sets and professional networks through the SPA program.

A Testament to the Power of Creativity. Taylor Swift's latest album, "Midnights" is not only a stunning work of art, but also a testament to the power of creativity and self-determination. The album marks a new chapter in Swift's career. In an industry where artists often struggle to maintain control over their own work, Swift is an example of the importance of creative freedom and the power of artists to shape their own destinies. It is a reminder that art is not just a product to be sold, but a deeply personal and transformative expression of the human experience. Swift's decision to take control of her music is particularly significant in light of the recent controversy surrounding her previous catalog, which was sold without her knowledge or consent to a private equity firm. This move not only denied Swift control over her own music, but also sent a chilling message to other artists about the precarious nature of their own creativity. With "Midnights" Swift has reclaimed her voice and her power, and in doing so, she has become an inspiration to other artists struggling to maintain control over their own work. The album is a testament to the power of creativity and self-determination and a reminder that artists have the ability to shape their own destinies and create something truly unique and transformative. "I don't know what to say / Except that it's a dream come true / So be kind to me, or treat me mean / But either way, I'll keep moving through." - Taylor These words are a powerful reminder that creativity and self-determination are not just ideals to be cherished, but also the key to achieving our dreams and shaping our own destinies. In a world where artists are often reduced to mere products to be marketed and sold, Swift is a beacon of hope and inspiration. It is a reminder that creativity and self-determination are not just possible, but essential to our own personal and professional growth. Art has the power to help us navigate our struggles and emerge stronger on the other side. She shows us that even the most painful experiences can become the raw material for something beautiful and transformative. Midnights is the 10th studio album by American songstress Taylor Swift. The album went on to be the most-streamed album in a single day on Spotify’s history before midnight of October 22 breaking all previous records. Swift produced four cover variants for the record, and the back of each cover, come together to make an analog clock. The four variants are Moonstone Blue (the standard version), Blood Moon, Mahogany, and Jade Green. Midnights features 13 new tracks, split into an A side and a B side, and Swift describes the project as being about, The stories of 13 sleepless nights scattered throughout my life Taylor announced the track list via TikTok through a mini-series she called Midnights Mayhem With Me, starting with the final track, Mastermind. In the series, she rolls a ball out of a bingo cage, each of which has a number between 1 and 13, and she reveals the title of the song that corresponds to each track number. This series concluded on the 7th of October with the announcement of the fourth track, Snow On the Beach (feat. Lana Del Rey and is available to view in full on Swift’s TikTok page. Three hours after the release of Midnights, Swift unveiled Midnights (3 am Edition), which includes sonically darker tracks that were left out of the original album. More info - taylorswift.com

Find Your Greatness revisits the international campaign that advanced the London, Olympics. Shinning a spotlight on the female perspective, with new attitudes for new times. The advert features two female leads whose who are not professional athletes, there are no boys watching them, they are two women playing for fun, playing for themselves. The commonality is not focused on winning a competition but on how you play, using character as fuel to measure greatness. One of the coolest film festivals in the world - MovieMaker This year’s festival is packed with movie marathons, panels with mental health professionals and criminal detectives, hundreds of independent film screenings, director’s chats, networking events as well as educational workshops and panels. The Portland Film Festival is accessible from around the world online at portlandfilm.org, and Comcast subscribers with an X1 voice remote or Flex streaming device will have easy and free access to a collection of films. The 2022 Portland Film Festival will feature stories by and about women, the Asian community, the Black community, the Indigenous community, the Latin community, the LGBQTIA+ community, the Muslim community, people with disabilities, veterans, and athletes, among many other important and compelling stories. As an Afro-Indigenous programmer, my goal is to share a collection of diverse voices this year we expanded our tracks even more to include films about advocacy and activism, mental health, sports and more - Joe Stevens Tickets for Portland Film Festival Currently, all films and events will be in person as well as accessible virtually at portlandfilm.org. Virtual tickets give viewers seven days to watch the movie with a 72-hour screening window for $15. The film can be watched as many times as you want during the screening window. In-person ticket prices range from matinee screenings for $7 before 5 pm, $15 for all movies from 5 until 10 pm, then $15 for our “Date Night” special for two tickets after 10 pm using discount code “DATE NIGHT,” to $450 for a VIP pass, $299 for an all-access pass, $249 for seniors and students, $149 for the industry. Movie marathon tickets are $59-99 with a limited commemorative T-shirt.

Eating Our Way to Extinction: World-Renowned Figures Speak Out. "Eating Our Way to Extinction" is a cinematic feature documentary that presents a hard-hitting message about the ecological collapse and the impact of our food choices on the planet. Narrated by Academy Award winner Kate Winslet and with a message from Paul McCartney, this film takes the audience on a journey around the world to uncover hard truths and address the urgent need for action. Directed by Otto Brockway and Ludovic Brockway, "Eating Our Way to Extinction" is a powerful film that highlights the devastating effects of industrialized farming, deforestation, and climate change. It showcases the story of our planet through shocking testimonials, poignant accounts from indigenous people most affected by our ever-changing planet, globally renowned figures, and leading scientists. Throughout the film, audiences will be taken on a journey to the depths of the Amazon rainforests, the Taiwanese Mountains, the Mongolian desert, the US Dust Bowl, the Norwegian Fjords, and the Scottish coastlines. Through stunning visuals and compelling storytelling, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the ecological collapse and the urgent need for action. Featuring a wealth of world-renowned contributors, including Sir Richard Branson and Tony Robbins, "Eating Our Way to Extinction" is a call to action that empowers audiences with a message of hope. The film encourages us to make better choices when it comes to our food, and to take responsibility for the impact of our actions on the planet. A thought-provoking and impactful documentary that delivers a crucial message about the future of our planet. With a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes, this film is a must-see for anyone who cares about the environment and the future of our world. Watch Paul McCartney on our Tik-Tok and Youtube.

Queensland Literary Award winner, Felicity Castagna, was recently awarded the Griffith University Young Adult Book Prize for her work, "Girls in Boys' Cars" (Pan Macmillan). This accolade is just one in a string of awards and nominations for the young adult novel, which has already been recognised by multiple literary institutions across the country. The Queensland Literary Awards, which recognised Castagna's work, pays tribute to writers of all levels of achievement and diversity. The awards aim to deliver on the priorities of Creative Together, a 10-year roadmap for arts, culture, and creativity. By elevating First Nations arts, sharing stories, and celebrating storytellers, the awards help to promote and support a vibrant and inclusive creative community. Castagna's "Girls in Boys' Cars" tells the story of two teenage girls who steal a boyfriend's car and set off on a road trip across Australia. As they drive through iconic landscapes, they learn how to drive and write their own stories. The novel's lyrical prose, authentic voice, and complex metaphorical structure provide readers with a gritty, honest look at what girls really want. The judges praised the book for its compelling narrative and its ability to capture the essence of contemporary Australia. This is not the first time that Castagna has been recognised for her work. Her first novel for Young Adults, "The Incredible Here and Now," received the Prime Minister's Award for Literature and was named the IBBY Honour Book for Australia. Her second book, "No More Boats," was a finalist in the Miles Franklin Award and was published internationally. In addition to her work as a novelist, Castagna has also written for the stage and radio, and her essays frequently appear in magazines and journals. The lyrical prose, the protagonist’s authentic voice, and the novel’s complex metaphorical structure give us a gritty honest look at what girls really want” - Judges comments Castagna's commitment to collaborative work with other artists is also noteworthy. She has helped to create a number of cross-artform and collaborative projects for major festivals, art galleries, and outdoor spaces. In addition, she teaches writing and helps to run storytelling, mentorship, and art projects. Her success as a writer and collaborator is a testament to the importance of supporting and celebrating diversity and creativity in the arts. Her work highlights the power of storytelling to bridge gaps and bring people together, and her commitment to collaboration and mentorship helps to create a more vibrant and inclusive creative community for all. Congratulations to the finalists: Katipo Joe: Wolf’s Lair by Brian Falkner (Scholastic) Morrison and Mr Moore by Michael Hyde (In Case of Emergency Press) Social Queue by Kay Kerr (Text Publishing) Sugar by Carly Nugent (Text Publishing)