Category: Indigenous resources

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films Indigenous resources popular culture science fiction TV

More good films and TV

Upcoming good films and TV….fantasy, crime, sci-fi, war stories, fiction to film….

 

Breath

The film of Tim Winton’s powerful novel is to be directed by Simon Baker (The mentalist), who will also produce and star in it. Set in a small Western Australian town in the 1970s, two teenage surfers become friends with an older surfer (Baker) and his wife. Their addiction to extreme surfing parallels their relationship with the older couple, leading to devastating consequences that impact on their lives forever. The novel is controversial and some schools would not choose to use it, but we use it with our senior classes. I think it is one of Winton’s best. His novels The riders and Shallows are also being developed as films.

http://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/may/13/simon-baker-to-produce-direct-and-star-in-adaptation-of-tim-wintons-breath

 

Cleverman

Commissioned by the ABC’s Indigenous unit – an innovative 6 part futuristic action drama set in the near future. A group of non-humans battle for survival in a world where humans feel increasingly inferior to them, wanting to exploit them as well as silence them. Two estranged indigenous brothers are forced together to fight for their own survival in this landscape, with Dreamtime creatures living in this world as refugees. Many of the stories in Cleverman are drawn from Aboriginal story-telling, for which series creator Ryan Griffen obtained permission from Aboriginal elders.  “The arc of the stories is fiction but the heart and genesis of the stories come from Aboriginal  story-telling. There is a definite truth to the stories.” (Rosemary Blight, producer).

Stars Iain Glen, Deborah Mailman, Rob Collins, Frances O’Connor. Directed by top indigenous directors Wayne Blair (The Sapphires) and Leah Purcell. Weta Workshop (Lord of the Rings) and Jacob Nash (Bangarra Dance Company) will provide the creature designs. Sounds excellent – screens in 2016.

http://if.com.au/2015/04/29/article/Cleverman-breaks-new-ground-for-original-drama/VBORCGWQKL.html

 

The Kettering Incident

8 part mystery series set in Tasmania. Influenced by scandi-noir dramas, with otherworldly overtones. Stars Elizabeth Debicki and Matt Le Nevez. A doctor returns to her hometown and finds herself inexplicably linked to the cases of 2 girls who disappeared in the wild 15 years apart. To clear her name, she must delve into her troubled past and the power of the mysterious land. Screens late 2015 on Foxtel.

http://www.foxtel.com.au/got/whats-on/foxtel-insider/foxtel/the-kettering-incident.html

 

Tomorrow when the war began

6 part series based on John Marsden’s best-selling young adult war series…at last! The 2010 film was popular, but only covered the first book, so this series will be more satisfying for fans of the series. Filming starts soon.

http://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/news_and_events/2015/mr_150513_prodfunding.aspx

 

Barracuda

4 part series based on the novel by Christos Tsiolkas. A young man deals with his obsession and the pressures of elite swimming as he aims for the Olympics. Filming starts soon.

Book review: http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/jan/03/barracuda-christos-tsiolkas-review

 

Nowhere boys: the rise of the bear

Telemovie of the popular young adult series created by Tony Ayres about 4 teenagers who get lost on a school excursion and return home – only to find they never existed. In the telemovie, an evil power invades and they discover that in order to save the multiverse, they must be ready to sacrifice their lives. Filming starts soon.

http://www.tvtonight.com.au/2014/12/nowhere-boys-the-movie.html

Categories
Indigenous resources

Reconciliation Week 27 May – 3 June

National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements and to contribute to building a reconciled Australia. It is held between two significant milestones in Australia’s history, May 27 (1967 Referendum) and June 3 (Mabo Day). Reconciliation involves building positive, respectful relationships between the broader Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for the benefit of all Australians. http://www.reconciliation.org.au/

 

Information and key dates in Reconciliation:

http://www.reconciliation.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Lets-talk…Reconciliation.pdf

Latest news:

  • Noel Pearson’s argument in favour of constitutional change, recognition of indigenous peoples and the removal of racial discrimination from the Constitution.
  • Maiden speech of Senator Nova Peris – first Aboriginal woman in the Australian Parliament.
  • Reconciliation messages – including Australian of the Year Adam Goodes, Meshel Laurie, Troy Cassar-Daley & Fred Chaney.

http://www.reconciliation.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/RA-News-29_web.pdf

Resources and fact sheets: http://www.reconciliation.org.au/category/resource/

Video –Reconciliation is for all of us  (2:5 min.): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYu2Q09zoXM&feature=youtu.be

 

Sing Loud! song competition

Learn and perform one of the 3 reconciliation songs in the playlist below – or perform your own original reconciliation song. Upload your performance to the Sing!Loud website. $1000 prize each for the best original song and best cover song – judged by Delta Goodrem and Gurrumul. Competition closes 8 June.

Details and videos of songs already submitted: http://www.reconciliation.org.au/nrw/category/sing-loud/

Delta, Gurrumul & the Sydney Symphony Orchestra perform Bayini on The Voice 2013….beautiful: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oi6zbPjtO6I

 

Recognise (part of Reconciliation Australia)

The people’s movement to recognise Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples in our Constitution – “We want to see fairness and respect at the heart of our Constitution, and to remove discrimination from it. Our goal is a more united nation. This is a chance for Australia to acknowledge the first chapter of our national story, and to forge our future together – after so many chapters apart.”
http://www.recognise.org.au/

School Learning Guide (Years 10-12) – Recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Constitution: http://www.recognise.org.au/uploads/custom/08ae158740e5ed91d082.pdf

 

Share our pride (part of Reconciliation Aust.)

Information about the First Australians; Culture; Shared history; Beyond the myths; Respectful relationships; Famous indigenous Australians; Books; Films.
http://shareourpride.org.au/

 

NAIDOC Week 6 – 13 July: Serving country – centenary and beyond

The theme honours all ATSI men and women who have fought in defence of country – from the warriors in the Frontier Wars to those who have served in Australia’s military engagements around the world.

http://www.naidoc.org.au/

Categories
geography and global resources Indigenous resources popular culture science fiction sociology TV

Good TV programs

Some great TV programs that support many areas of the curriculum….

Doctor Who 50th anniversary special: The day of the Doctor
ABC1 Sunday 24 Nov early in the morning! The ABC will simultaneously broadcast the 75 minute special as it goes live from the UK with a 7.30pm repeat. 87 Australian cinemas will also show it in 3D on the big screen. The special will star Matt Smith, David Tennant, John Hurt, Billie Piper and Jenna Coleman, and reveals the dangerous past of the Doctor. It is the longest running sci-fi TV show in the world and has 80 million viewers.

ABC iView has shown many episodes of recent Dr Who series ahead of the evening broadcast time. In the lead-up to the anniversary episode, iView will show 47 classic episodes featuring every Doctor from the first to the eighth, plus awesome monsters and favourite companions.

ABC2 is also showing specials on Sundays at 7.30pm, starting with Doctor Who explained (20 Oct) – everything you need to know about the Doctor – current, past or future. Other programs include The science of Doctor Who; The timey-wimey of Doctor Who; The women of Doctor Who; The destinations of Doctor Who. And you can watch all episodes from series 1-7 on ABC2 weeknights at 7.30pm. Something for everyone – if only we had more time hehe.
http://mumbrella.com.au/abc-simulcast-doctor-50th-anniversary-special-180854
Excellent recent trailer – 5 decades of The Doctor: http://metro.co.uk/2013/10/20/doctor-who-the-50th-celebration-trailer-doesnt-feature-the-day-of-the-doctor-footage-but-it-couldnt-be-any-better-4152398/

Ja’mie: private school girl
ABC1 – starts Wed 23 Oct 9 pm. The new 6 part mockumentary series chronicles the final 3 months of high school for 17 year old private school captain Ja’mie King…..and who hasn’t got a soft spot for rude, self-obsessed Ja’mie? Chris Lilley is a great actor, whether in male or female roles. This series features a sexting scandal, love interests and the possibility of being immortalised in bronze. Ja’mazing!
http://www.abc.net.au/tv/programs/jamie-private-school-girl/
http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/ja8217mie-private-school-girl-chris-lilley8217s-new-comedy-series-is-a-return-to-raunchy-fun-after-the-dark-angry-boys/story-e6frfmq9-1226731555319

The art of Australia
ABC1 Tues 22 Oct 8.30pm. Hosted by Edmund Capon, this 3 part series explores how art and artists helped to shape Australia’s national identity, from the colonial period to the present. The series interweaves the story of British, European and indigenous art traditions and includes the works of Lycett, Roberts, Streeton, Nolan, Boyd, Fairweather, Olsen and the Papunya movement.
http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/art-and-design/master-strokes-that-set-the-artistic-landscape-20131020-2vv4d.html

Autopsy on a dream
ABC1 Sun 20 Oct 9.25pm. The controversial recently found 1968 BBC film that looks at the construction of the Sydney Opera House and the resignation of Jorn Utzon. Updated voice-over by original narrator Bob Ellis. Includes 30 minute prologue The dream of perfection, the story of the film plus interviews.
 http://www.abc.net.au/arts/blog/arts-desk/Autopsy-on-a-Dream-Sydney-Opera-House-131015/default.htm

Redfern now: series 2
ABC1 – starts Thurs 31 Oct 8.30pm – 6 parts. The follow-up to the acclaimed first series written & directed by indigenous Australians, exploring the lives of indigenous families in inner city Redfern, Sydney. Some of the characters return from season 1, including Deborah Mailman, Wayne Blair, Leah Purcell. New additions include Ernie Dingo, Sibylla Budd and Steve Bisley. Directors include Beck Cole, Wayne Blair, Leah Purcell and Rachel Perkins. This series will once again provide powerful and moving stories and is an excellent resource supporting the ACARA Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures Cross-curriculum Priority.
http://www.tvtonight.com.au/event/redfern-now

Coast Australia
History Channel – starts December. Presented by Neil Oliver, with Australian experts – an Australian version of the acclaimed British series. The 8 part series explores stories and facts about our coastal history, people, archaeology, geography and marine life. And if you like Neil Oliver’s TV history series, then you will have a chance to see him in Australia in December with his History in the Making shows, bringing British and Australian history to life.
http://www.tvtonight.com.au/2013/10/neil-oliver-coasts-to-australia-for-live-tour.html

The fatal shore
Looks like the book by Robert Hughes will finally be filmed. The 6 part dramatised documentary series will be hosted by Neil Oliver, with CGI-created re-enactments of epic events. Due 2014.
http://if.com.au/2013/07/17/article/The-Fatal-Shore-headed-for-the-screen/OTHQCXEJYH.html

Catch-up TV
ABC iView, SBS on Demand, PLUS7, ninemsn Video and now TENplay – these services are great for catching up on missed shows. Although programs cannot be saved and are not online forever, they are very useful for classes to watch – especially in schools that don’t have access to online digital video systems like ClickView.
The new TENPlay service plans to live stream the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics and some shows can be accessed on TENPlay before they are broadcast locally. There are also rumours that US streaming giants Hulu and Netflix may launch locally.
Despite these options, Australians are still major TV pirates, leading the way with torrent downloads of the finales of Breaking bad and Game of thrones.
http://www.smh.com.au/digital-life/digital-life-news/tenplay-tv-catching-up-on-catchups-20131009-2v6pj.html

Categories
Indigenous resources websites

Indigenous Literacy Day – 4 Sept 2013

Today is Indigenous Literacy Day which promotes literacy in remote indigenous communities. The Indigenous Literacy Foundation raises funds for books and other literacy projects in these areas, with over 100 000 books supplied to 230 remote communities over the past 4 years. Many local schools have been fundraising. http://www.indigenousliteracyfoundation.org.au/

Here are some useful resources for the ACARA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures Cross-Curriculum Priority:

Online Larrakia calendar: seasons according to the indigenous Larrakia people of the Darwin region

September for us means warmer weather and maybe hayfever – but for the Larrakia people, September brings the Dalirrgang season – the Build Up for the wet season, with mangrove fruit and magpie geese. This new interactive online calendar has colourful pictures, simple information and descriptive words read by Larrakia people. Interesting and informative and a great contrast to our seasons down south!

From CSIRO: “For the first time, detailed Aboriginal seasonal knowledge of the Darwin region has been converted into an interactive online educational resource, aligned to the Australian Curriculum: Science. Researcher Emma Woodward said many Aboriginal people are concerned about the loss of their knowledge, while at the same time there is strong demand from schools for more traditional ecological information. The observations of Aboriginal people have revealed relationships and links between plants, animals, water and climate that other people were not aware of.

The online Larrakia calendar shows seven seasons in an annual cycle of climatic and ecological understanding. The Larrakia calendar could also be used to monitor future environmental change.” http://www.larrakia.csiro.au/#/calendar/dalay

Teacher resources: http://www.larrakia.csiro.au/#/page/teacher-activity-area

ABC indigenous portal

Excellent links to news, TV programs, online videos, arts reviews, community stories.   http://www.abc.net.au/indigenous/

The Indigenous Quarter (ABC TV)

Part of the ABC’s informative Quarters programs (approx 15 mins each month) – Technology, Culture, Health, Consumer, Arts, Environment, Finance, Food,  Rural, Weather. Videos remain online for several months. http://www.abc.net.au/news/abcnews24/programs/the-quarters/

The Indigenous Quarter monthly program reports on the latest indigenous news. This week – the Federal Government hands back 5000 hectares of land to traditional owners in the top end; historian Bill Gammage tells how Australia’s first inhabitants shaped the landscape.

27 Aug edition: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-08-27/the-indigenous-quarter-episode-9/4915918/?site=indigenous&topic=latest

http://www.abc.net.au/tv/programs/indigenous-quarter/

More ABC videos about indigenous news and issues: http://www.abc.net.au/indigenous/video/default.htm#pagemenu

NITV: National Indigenous TV

Channel 34 on digital TV; part of SBS. Interesting programs eg. NITV News, the Barefoot Sports Show, the Marngrook Footy Show, Yaarnz, Living Strong, Grounded, Volumz Music Program, Waabiny Time and Go Lingo – popular shows that send out positive messages about indigenous Australia and speak primarily to indigenous Australians.    http://www.nitv.org.au/

NITV is highly regarded for its quality documentaries. From 1 July, a series of mini documentaries has been shown weeknights at 6.30pm. Our Stories, Our Way, Everyday are 15 minute films by emerging filmmakers, showing a slice of life from their communities. Available on SBS on Demand. http://www.nitv.org.au/fx-program.cfm?pid=2A73F286-C86D-08A2-254373436727D643&pgid=2D8A8857-D894-63A6-008070BA52593BF0

Creative Spirits

http://www.creativespirits.info/

This comprehensive website has excellent links for  indigenous culture and resources. It is curated by a non indigenous person who has received acclaim for the information provided.

Books and reviews about indigenous culture – art, autobiography, children’s, novels, history, sport, teaching resources etc:   http://www.creativespirits.info/resources/books

Films dealing with indigenous issues – indigenous and non indigenous directors. Includes synopsis of each: http://www.creativespirits.info/resources/movies/

The black list: film and TV projects since 1970 with indigenous Australians in key creative roles

Published in June 2010, Screen Australia’s comprehensive reference book The black list catalogued the work of 257 Indigenous Australians with credits since 1970 as producer, director, writer or director of photography. Includes details of the film and TV projects and availability.

Search the Find a Film database: http://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/research/prod_industry_indig.aspx

PDF of the book: http://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/documents/SA_publications/BlackList.pdf

Updated chronology of indigenous film and TV 1970 – 2012: http://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/getmedia/5af3d578-7a13-416c-b094-6739a1828e0c/BlackListChronology.pdf

New media may help save ancient languages

80% of Australia’s 150 remaining Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander languages are highly endangered. Experts recently met in Melbourne to discuss how to preserve these languages – eg. online indigenous language lessons; films; online stories written & spoken in indigenous languages; apps for indigenous languages…

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-08-28/new-media-may-help-save-worlds-oldest-cultures/4919974/?site=indigenous&topic=latest

Treasure trove of indigenous language documents discovered

200 documents in 100 indigenous languages from across Australia were recently unearthed at the NSW State Library, detailing early contact between Aboriginal people and European settlers. Indigenous services librarian Ronald Briggs: “…if you’re learning about language you’re also learning about culture and a lot of the other written documents that we’ve found are telling us about our cultures as they were practiced 100-150 years ago, it’s absolutely fantastic”. He will help indigenous communities access the material.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-08-26/early-indigenous-language-documents-unearthed-at-nsw-library/4912960

 

 

 

 

Categories
books censorship Indigenous resources literature websites

Happy Book Week!

It’s Book Week– a great time to celebrate books, writing and reading – in paper or digital form!
The winning children’s books have been announced by the Children’s Book Council of Australia. Books for Older Readers are very suitable for college students and other titles are used in Children’s Literature classes. We buy several each year. You might also be interested if you have young children.
Winners: http://cbca.org.au/winners2013.htm
Notable books: http://cbca.org.au/Notables2013.htm

In the library we are running a daily Trivia Quiz with 10 questions posted daily and prizes given to the first correct answers. We are continuing with the Sci-ku poetry writing competition so send us your haiku poems on a science theme.

Looking for good reads? Try these sites:

Dymocks’ best 101 books of all time: 2013 list
Looking for a good read? Try something from this list, as voted by 7000 readers. The Harry Potter series has regained top spot, followed by Pride and prejudice.
http://www.dymocks.com.au/Booklovers/101club.aspx

Australian Independent Bookseller
Weekly Top 10 bestsellers; book news, Indie Awards chosen annually. Winner of this year’s Miles Franklin Literary Award: Questions of travel by Michelle de Kretser. http://www.indies.com.au/
Indie Book of the Year: The light between oceans by M.L. Stedman.
Winners: http://www.readings.com.au/news/the-2013-indie-award-winners

Get Reading!
http://www.getreading.com.au/
Formerly known as Books Alive, this is Australia’s largest annual celebration of books and reading, held in September each year. On 1 Sept, the 2013 list of the Top 50 Books You Can’t Put Down will be announced, as well as a list of Australia’s favourite books. The free guide will be available in bookstores and online.
Some great book suggestions – book lists from 2007-2012: http://www.getreading.com.au/50-books-you-cant-put-down/

Banned books
Various banned book lists – interesting and well presented: http://www.goodreads.com/list/tag/banned

Read about the secret history of Australian censorship and prohibited publications….Peyton Place, Brave new world, The catcher in the rye….intriguing! http://blog.naa.gov.au/banned/

Twentieth-century Australia had the strictest censorship of any democratic nation. Publications of all kinds were kept under surveillance and thousands of books were banned as seditious, blasphemous or obscene. Read more: http://www.lib.unimelb.edu.au/collections/special/exhibitions/bannedbooks/exhibition/

List of banned books in Australia: http://www.lib.unimelb.edu.au/collections/special/exhibitions/bannedbooks/exhibition/australia.html

More links: http://www.lib.unimelb.edu.au/collections/special/exhibitions/bannedbooks/

The best 100 opening lines from books: Click on the book covers to reveal the lines from excellent books, old and new.
http://www.stylist.co.uk/life/the-best-100-opening-lines-from-books/
100 best closing lines from books: http://www.stylist.co.uk/life/the-best-100-closing-lines-from-books
100 best films based on books: http://www.stylist.co.uk/life/top-100-films-based-on-books
The 8 darkest fairy tales: http://www.stylist.co.uk/books/the-eight-darkest-fairy-tales#image-rotator-1

Arts and Letters Daily
http://www.aldaily.com/
Highly regarded website with dailyreport of news in literature, language, philosophy, ideas, criticism, history, music, art, culture – includes reviews of new books, essays and articles. Excellent links to other cultural websites and blogs. Something for everyone! eg. A brief history of applause, the Big Data of the ancient world: http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/03/a-brief-history-of-applause-the-big-data-of-the-ancient-world/274014/

AustLit: the Australian literature resource
http://www.austlit.edu.au/
AustLit aims to be the definitive virtual information resource for Australian literary, print and narrative culture. It includes information about fiction, poetry, theatre & film writing, biographical & travel writing and reviews. Some full text creative and critical works are also available. All Aust. teachers have free access.
What’s in AustLit: http://www.austlit.edu.au/austlit/page/5961903
Full text collections: Poems, novels, criticism, reviews, children’s literature and early Aust. science fiction. http://www.austlit.edu.au/austlit/page/5960585
Full text search: http://www.austlit.edu.au/?ex=FullTextSearch

AustLit includes the BlackWords database. BlackWords provides searchable information about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander writers, storytellers and their published and unpublished books, stories, plays, poems and criticism. It includes works in English and in Indigenous Australian languages. http://www.austlit.edu.au/specialistDatasets/BlackWords

Sydney Review of Books
http://sydneyreviewofbooks.com/
“Sparked by concerns about the dwindling space for literary criticism in Australian media, the Sydney Review of Books is an online review site focusing on Australian writers and writing”. It has reviews and articles about fiction, non fiction, poetry & other feature articles.

Happy Book Week!

 

Categories
human rights Indigenous resources websites

National Reconciliation Week 27 May – 3 June

 “The dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey of Aboriginal Australians – the anniversaries of the successful 1967 referendum and the High Court Mabo decision.

                       
 May 27 marks the anniversary of Australia’s most successful referendum and a defining event in our nation’s history. The 1967 referendum saw over 90 per cent of Australians vote to give the Commonwealth the power to make laws for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and recognise them in the national census.

On 3 June, 1992, the High Court of Australia delivered its landmark Mabo decision which legally recognised that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a special relationship to the land—that existed prior to colonalisation and still exists today. This recognition paved the way for land rights called Native Title. 2012 marked the 20th anniversary of the Mabo decision.

The week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements and to explore how each of us can join the national reconciliation effort.”   http://www.reconciliation.org.au/

Resources and fact sheets: http://www.reconciliation.org.au/home/resources

Recognise (part of Reconciliation Australia) – the people’s movement to recognise Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples in our Constitution. “We want to see fairness and respect at the heart of our Constitution, and to remove discrimination from it. Our goal is a more united nation. This is a chance for Australia to acknowledge the first chapter of our national story, and to forge our future together – after so many chapters apart.”

News & info: http://www.recognise.org.au/

Share our pride (part of Reconciliation Aust.)

Resources section: info on famous indigenous Austns; books & articles; films.

Learn section: culture; shared history; beyond the myths; respectful relationships.

http://shareourpride.org.au/

NAIDOC Week 7 – 14 July

http://www.naidoc.org.au/

This year’s theme: We value the vision: Yirrkala Bark Petitions 1963. This year is the 50th anniversary of the presentation of the bark petitions to Parliament, protesting mining rights on Yolngu land & seeking recognition of Yolngu land ownership.

http://www.naidoc.org.au/celebrating-naidoc-week/2013-national-naidoc-week-theme/

 

 

Categories
films Indigenous resources popular culture TV

Great films coming up!

If you’ve been to the movies lately you may have seen some exciting previews for some great films that support many curriculum areas. Can’t wait to see Life of Pi, Les Mis, The hobbit…

 

Life of Pi (opens 1 Jan 2013)

Based on one of the best books EVER. Directed in 3D by Ang Lee. Stars Suraj Sharma. “An inspiring and visually stunning tale of faith, hope and discovery” (R. Perez). Previews look awesome….tiger power J

Trailer: http://www.lifeofpimovie.com/#!/watch-trailer

http://www.lifeofpimovie.com/

Reviews: http://www.variety.com/review/VE1117948443?refcatid=31

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/09/28/life-of-pi-reviews-ang-lee_n_1923891.html

 

Les Miserables (opens 26 Dec 2012)

Directed by Tom Hooper (The King’s speech). Stars Hugh Jackman as Jean Valjean, Russell Crowe as Javert, Anne Hathaway as Fantine, Sacha Baron Cohen and Helena Bonham Carter as the innkeepers. All songs were recorded live on set. Boublil and Schonberg have composed a new song just for Hugh Jackman J

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Les_Mis%C3%A9rables_(2012_film)

http://www.lesmiserablesmovie.com.au/

Clips and info: http://www.movienewz.com/les-miserables/

 

The hobbit: an unexpected journey (opens 26 Dec 2012)

Directed by Peter Jackson. Now in 3 parts! Is that more…or less…hobbit for your money? Apparently there was a lot of extra material in Tolkien’s appendices. Stars Martin Freeman as Bilbo.  Includes Benedict Cumberbatch as Smaug, Stephen Fry as an unsavoury town leader , Billy Connolly as a dwarf warrior and Dame Edna as the Great Goblin. Or should that be Barry Humphries?

Part 1: An unexpected journey (2012)   Pt 2: The desolation of Smaug (Dec 2013)    Pt 3: There and back again (mid 2014).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hobbit_(2012_film)

Trailer: http://www.thehobbit.com/index.html#content=trailer-playing&media=trailer_1

 

The great Gatsby (now due to open mid 2013)

Directed by Baz Luhrmann. Stars Leonardo Di Caprio. Rumour says it will have an ultra-modern soundtrack, a bit of Luhrmann’s signature style – possibilities include Lady Gaga, Prince, Kanye West, Jay-Z…

http://www.news.com.au/national/superstars-go-gaga-for-gatsby/story-fndo4bst-1226497266331

Trailer: http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/movies/first-trailer-for-baz-luhrmanns-the-great-gatsby-to-make-stylish-debut/story-e6frfmvr-1226364289175

 

On the road (out now)

Directed by Walter Salles (The motorcycle diaries). Stars Sam Riley and Kristen Stewart. Based on the book by Jack Kerouac (his manuscript was typed on a 120 foot roll of paper). Should be good for senior students of American literature and the postwar Beat Generation.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/On_the_Road_(film)

Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9vsE0llyBM

 

Redfern Now (ABC 1 Nov at 8.30pm; 6 x 60 min.)

Stars Deborah Mailman, Wayne Blair (director of The Sapphires), Jimi Bani (Mabo), Leah Purcell. A rich and diverse series of 6 stories about 6 indigenous families living in Redfern, Sydney, whose lives are changed by extraordinary events. Directors include Rachel Perkins, Wayne Blair, Leah Purcell. This is the first drama project developed by the ABC Indigenous Dept, with more programs to come from indigenous writers, filmmakers and actors.

http://www.abc.net.au/tv/redfernnow/about/ http://sydney-central.whereilive.com.au/news/story/seeing-redfern-as-it-really-is/

 

Better man (SBS 2013)

Written and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Khoa Do (brother of Anh Do). 4 part mini-series about 25 year Vietnamese-Australian Van Nguyen, who was convicted of drug trafficking and executed in Singapore in 2005 after a 3 year legal battle. The series has been described as compelling, inspiring and thought-provoking.

http://if.com.au/2012/07/26/article/SBS-commissions-new-drama-series-Better-Man/PEBSSTSTMB.html

 

Ender’s game (end 2013)

Directed by Gavin Hood. Based on the scifi books Ender’s game and Ender’s shadow by Orson Scott Card. Stars Asa Butterfied (from Hugo) Abigail Breslin, Harrison Ford, Ben Kingsley. An unusually gifted youth is sent to a military space school to prepare for an alien invasion.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ender’s_Game_(film)

 

Oz the Great and Powerful (2013)

Directed in 3D by Sam Raimi. Stars James Franco, Michelle Williams and Mila Kunis. Prequel to The Wizard of Oz. A small-time conniving Kansas circus magician gets blown to Oz (yes by a twister), where he meets several witches, gets involved in the problems of Oz and transforms himself into a better man.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oz:_The_Great_and_Powerful

Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yyywumlnhdw

 

Madam Bovary (2014)

Based on the book by Gustave Flaubert. Directed by Sophie Barthes. Stars Mia Wasikowska. The film, set in the present, will attempt to explore more youthful and contemporary themes as it depicts the life of the doctor’s wife who seeks excitement and status outside the bonds of marriage.

http://www.cinemablend.com/new/Mia-Wasikowska-Madame-Bovary-30223.html

 

More superheroes!

Coming up soon: Iron Man 3 (2013), Thor: the dark world (2013), Man of Steel (2013) (a misunderstood Superman), Captain America 2 (2014), 300: rise of an empire (2014) (prequel to 300, Xerxes and Themistocles battle it out; based on the graphic novel by Frank Miller).

 

Lots to look forward to!

Categories
books films Indigenous resources TV websites

Indigenous resources & Indigenous Literacy Day

Today is Indigenous Literacy Day – Wed 5 Sept. Many schools raise money for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation, which donates books and funds literacy programs in remote indigenous communities. $340 000 has been donated so far in 2012 with 85 000 books supplied to 230 remote indigenous communities. Some children’s books are also translated into indigenous languages. It is a very successful and worthwhile program.
http://www.indigenousliteracyfoundation.org.au/

 

The Sapphires

The highly acclaimed film continues its success at the box office, the soundtrack is #1, the weekly free podcast on iTunes is popular as is the iPhone app where Jessica Mauboy helps you sing like a diva!

http://www.hopscotchfilms.com.au/home/

 

The black list: film and TV projects since 1970 with indigenous Australians in key creative roles

Published in June 2010, Screen Australia’s comprehensive reference book The black list catalogued the work of 257 Indigenous Australians with credits since 1970 as producer, director, writer or director of photography. Includes details of the film and TV projects and availability.

Search the Find a Film database: http://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/research/prod_industry_indig.aspx

PDF of the book: http://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/documents/SA_publications/BlackList.pdf

Updated chronology of indigenous film and TV 1970 – 2012

http://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/documents/SA_publications/BlackListChronology.pdf

 

Creative Spirits

http://www.creativespirits.info/

This comprehensive website has excellent links for  indigenous culture and resources. It is curated by a non indigenous person who has received acclaim for the information provided (part of NLA’s Pandora).

Books and reviews about indigenous culture – art, autobiography, children’s, novels, history, sport, teaching resources etc:   http://www.creativespirits.info/resources/books

Films dealing with indigenous issues – indigenous and non indigenous directors. Includes synopsis of each: http://www.creativespirits.info/resources/movies/

 

Magabala Books

Based in Broome; publishes works which have major Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander or South Sea Islander involvement (indigenous author, editor or illustrator). Browse categories – new releases, children’s, social history, biography etc

http://www.magabala.com/catalog_new/index.php

 

IAD Press

Based in Alice Springs; a rich catalogue of publications celebrating Central Australian language, art, culture and biographies. All publications represent an authentic indigenous perspective. Includes fiction, children’s, biography, art, land and culture, Aboriginal languages.

http://iadpress.com/

 

Aboriginal Studies Press

Australia’s leading publisher of indigenous studies – the publishing arm of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS), the world’s premier research and collecting institute of Australian indigenous studies. Publish up to ten new titles annually and choose outstanding writing that promotes an understanding of Australian indigenous cultures.

http://www.aiatsis.gov.au/asp/welcome.html

 

Little red yellow black book: an introduction to indigenous Australia – Bruce Pascoe & AIATSIS (ASP, Canberra, 2008)

Best-selling guide to indigenous history and contemporary culture.

Online teaching resources and links: http://lryb.aiatsis.gov.au/

 

ABC indigenous portal

Excellent links to news, TV programs, online videos, arts reviews, community stories.

http://www.abc.net.au/indigenous/

 

Categories
films Indigenous resources TV

Mabo and Rachel Perkins

Mabo

If you missed this excellent & powerful film directed by Rachel Perkins, it is available on iView, along with other good Mabo resources. The performances of Jimi Bani and Deborah Mailman were exceptional. It will be a very useful resource for high schools – history, human rights, indigenous perspectives, legal studies, biography…

Watch Mabo film: http://www.abc.net.au/tv/mabo/movie/?WT.srch=1&WT.mc_id=Corp_TV-Mabo|Mabo_AdWords_:abc+mabo_b_g_19619852599_

Other Mabo videos: http://www.abc.net.au/tv/mabo/videos/

Timeline of Native Title: http://www.abc.net.au/tv/mabo/timeline/

Rachel Perkins directing episodes of Redfern Now

The 6 part ABC series from Perkins’ Blackfella Films (Mabo, First Australians) has begun filming with 4 directors (Perkins, Wayne Blair, Leah Purcell, Catriona McKenzie). It tells the story of 6 inner city households whose lives are changed by a seemingly insignificant incident. Cast includes Deborah Mailman, Jimi Bani, Miranda Tapsell. The series is co-written by indigenous writers and UK scriptwriter Jimmy McGovern.

If you haven’t yet seen Bran Nue Dae (2010), directed by Rachel Perkins, it’s wonderful – a very entertaining, coming-of-age, road movie, comedy, musical about a young Aboriginal man and his return home. Rated PG and very suitable for high schools. She has also directed a “prequel” to her First Australians series, which only started from 1788. The prequel documents the first contact between Cook and Aboriginal people at Botany Bay, NSW. The film can be seen in the Discovery Centre at Kamay Botany Bay National Park, Kurnell.

Looking forward to seeing The Sapphires (directed by Wayne Blair) when it opens in August!

http://mumbrella.com.au/the-sapphires-to-open-melbourne-international-film-festival-91950

 

Categories
films Indigenous resources websites

Reconciliation Week 27 May – 6 June 2012

Reconciliation Week 27 May – 3 June: Let’s talk recognition
A great chance to celebrate, appreciate and engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. 
 
National Indigenous Youth Parliament
The first National Indigenous Youth Parliament is on this week in Canberra and Steph Pollard (year 12) has been chosen as an ACT representative, along with 50 participants from all around Australia. The program develops youth-led advocacy & community leadership and includes debating bills written by teams. It marks the 50th anniversary  of the Indigenous right to vote in federal elections.  http://www.aec.gov.au/voting/indigenous_vote/niyp.htm
 
NAIDOC & Reconciliation Week Assembly 18 June
Guest performer is Owen Campbell, a local indigenous singer and guitarist who has reached the semi-finals of Australia’s got talent. The assembly falls 2 weeks before NAIDOC Week and after Reconciliation Week so it’s a celebration of both.
 
Info, resources & news about reconciliation
http://www.reconciliation.org.au/home
Animated video for Reconciliation Week (1 min.): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cN2zVEWZPUw
Online video competition: Shoot a 45 second video on a handheld device & win an ipad or lunch with chef Mark Olive. Choosea key action for reconciliation such as Change the future, Praise people, Look through different eyes… Entries close 21 June.
http://www.reconciliation.org.au/home/latest/video-competition-launch
 
NAIDOC Week 1 – 8 July
This year’s theme is Spirit of the Tent Embassy: 40 years on.
http://www.naidoc.org.au/celebrating-naidoc-week/2012-national-naidoc-week-theme/

The Sapphires film gets standing ovation at Cannes Film Festival
Based on the play by Tony Briggs, the true story of an all-girl singing group from a remote Aboriginal community in Victoria who play for Australian troops in Vietnam. The feel-good musical comedy stars Jessica Mauboy, Shari Sebbens, Miranda Tapsell and Deborah Mailman; directed by Wayne Blair. http://www.theage.com.au/entertainment/movies/sapphires-supreme-effort-all-set-to-dazzle-cannes-20120519-1yxto.html

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/review/sapphires-cannes-review-326980
 
Mabo: Sunday 10 June ABC1, 8.30pm
Docudrama – the story of Eddie Koiki Mabo and his fight for justice and Native Title. Directed by Rachel Perkins (Bran Nue Dae; Radiance; The first Australians). Stars Jimi Bani & Deborah Mailman.
The ABC website has good resources including teacher notes and activities for Years 7-12. Includes videos from the 480:Mabo series which celebrates 20 years since the Mabo decision. http://www.abc.net.au/tv/mabo/videos/
Timeline of Native Title with short videos: http://www.abc.net.au/tv/mabo/timeline/
 
Amnesty International 2012 human rights report
Amnesty says that Australia continues to violate the rights of Indigenous people, and is driving them from their homelands through policies & inadequate funding.  http://www.amnesty.org.au/report/comments_2012/28734/

Amnesty and Indigenous rights http://www.amnesty.org.au/indigenous-rights/
In March, the Commonwealth Government committed long-term funds to support Homelands, but more is needed. Homelands are communities established so that Aboriginal people can maintain connection with their traditional, ancestral land. These communities have lower levels of social problems and significantly better health outcomes, and are home to around a third of the Aboriginal population of the Northern Territory. http://www.amnesty.org.au/indigenous-rights/homelands/