After seven decades capturing some of the extravagant and delicate parts of the natural world, Sir David Attenborough’s new film Ocean with David Attenborough coincides with his 99th birthday to celebrate the wonder, and importance, of our oceans.

Capitalising on developments in ocean discovery, the film shows us the kelp forests, coral reefs and sea grass meadows that contribute to keeping our planet stable and flourishing, while considering what threatens it.

“Over the last hundred years scientists and explorers have revealed remarkable new species,” Sir David said.

“Epic migrations and dazzling, complex ecosystems beyond anything I could have imagined as a young man.

“In this film we share some of those wonderful discoveries, uncover why our ocean is in such poor health, and, perhaps most importantly, show how it can be restored to health.”

Australian underwater cinematographer Tom Park contributed years’ worth of footage of the Great Barrier Reef for the film, having become captivated by the ocean as a kid on holiday.

“I had my first dive when I was 12 [and] almost immediately it was an addiction,” Tom said.

“Being able to float through this zero-gravity environment [and] feel the energy of this underwater world is really hard to shake.

“It’s absolutely stunning and never ceases to amaze you.”

Tom was documenting the impact of a mass coral bleaching event on the Great Barrier Reef when approached for Ocean with David Attenborough.

“To watch [the Reef] fall apart and turn into this desolate white, lifeless landscape void of any colour was hard,” Tom said.

“But we hung around to see what happens after these events set in.”

What Tom found in the Southern Barrier Reef over 14months following the initial event, was that life could come back.

“Large parts of the reef that had been stark white held on,” Tom said.

“You’d start to see these signs of life sprout among the rubble, these signs of life amongst all the destruction.”

Sir David Attenborough puts it that “these little baby corals” became the basis for the foundations of a whole new reef.

“Wherever we have given the ocean time and space, it has recovered faster and on a greater scale than we dared to imagine possible,” David said.

“And it has the power to go even further.”

Currently before the United Nations Council is the High Seas Treaty, an agreement signed by a number of countries wanting to conserve and sustainably use marine biodiversity.

If put into law, the treaty would see the establishment of marine protected areas and require environmental impact assessments of marine-based activity.

“This could be the moment of change,” Sir David said.

“When I first saw the sea as a young boy, it was thought of as a vast wilderness to be tamed and mastered for the benefit of humanity.

“Now, as I approach the end of my life, we know the opposite is true.”

Ocean with David Attenborough is in cinemas now.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Canva

About the Author: Laura Bennett is a media professional, broadcaster and writer from Sydney, Australia.

The last two years have been some of most significant for Australian singer and Hillsong alumni TAYA, as she officially leaves the church, releases her second solo album, has a baby, relocates to the US and prepares for her first headline tour.

Add to that a skin cancer diagnosis and living out of suitcases for 5 months with baby Bo in tow, and understandably TAYA wanted to come back to basics with The Reminder – a conscious reflection on the unchanging faithfulness of God.

“We are walking out of this season with the testament of God’s faithfulness,” TAYA said.

“Even if we’re doubtful, or we fear, [I’m] just so grateful that He doesn’t change.”

While learning to be a mum on the road – Bo’s now been to 16 countries “and has no idea” – TAYA was touring her previous album, writing the current one and working out what life post-Hillsong would look like with husband Ben.

“We met in that church,” TAYA said.

“We thought we’d be there for life [but] sensed our time there was ending.”

For 15 years TAYA was a leading figure in UNITED and Young & Free, renowned for Oceans, Wake and Not Today contributing to some 800million career streams for the bands.

“In God’s kindness,” TAYA said.

“The things from [those] years have now become the floorboards we get to step on to launch this new thing.”

The title track of The Reminder is as much for listeners as for TAYA herself, calling her soul to remember in the valleys that God sees her, that her future’s secure and her history with God is proof of His goodness.

“This record is testimony set to melody,” TAYA said.

“I don’t think I’ll ever get away from that because I think it’s really powerful when people sing with a conviction.

“It’s usually because there’s been something that they’ve walked through – it’s a hard-fought revelation of who God is.”

TAYA’s goal for the next season is just “to be doing what [God’s] asking of me to do”.

“There’s a simplifying happening in my own heart,” TAYA said.

“I’ve seen it in quite a few different friends around me: there’s a stripping away of what we thought mattered, or that perhaps other people were placing upon us.”

Some of the sweetness TAYA sees on this side echoes former Hillsong songwriter Ben Fielding, who sees fruit coming from seeds that were scattered in recent years.

“It was quite violent and it felt quite distressing,” TAYA said.

“But what’s been beautiful about this season is that when you’ve been in the trenches with people [you] can’t replicate that.

“We know we were all in it together.

“[Now] I think people have been allowed, or enabled, to go into places that perhaps never would’ve happened if we’d all stayed together in that same way.”

The Reminder serves as a way-marker, celebrating what’s been but pointing us forward to the good God’s going to do next.

“I don’t have any idea what the future holds,” TAYA said.

“But I know that I get to rest in him completely.”

TAYA’s album The Reminder is out now.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Album cover art supplied and used with permission

About the Author: Laura Bennett is a media professional, broadcaster and writer from Sydney, Australia.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ (OUT OF 5 STARS) 

To say that the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been in a bit of turmoil since Avengers: Endgame might be an understatement.

There have been more lows than highs in this world of superheroes, and Kevin Feige’s team has been trying to get themselves back on track. Deadpool has done his best to restart things for the House of Mouse, but the Merc with the Mouth can’t be the one who gets families back into cinemas. While Captain America: Brave New World failed to do more than cause a sigh of mediocrity from most fans. This leaves the franchise in the hands of a band of misfits called the Thunderbolts* who are all sidekicks, anti-heroes or pseudo-villains to save the day and hope to grace a Wheaties box.

Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh) has been wandering the planet cleaning up the mess left behind by CIA director Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus). Yet, the Black Widow operative has been struggling mentally to stay focussed and is yearning for purpose in her life. She reaches out to her father, Alexei Shostakov / Red Guardian (David Harbour), who is trying to regain his former glory. Yelena determines that she will do one final assignment for the less-than-trustworthy head of the CIA. As she enters a secret desert facility, the assassin finds herself battling U.S Agent/John Walker (Wyatt Russell), Ava Starr/Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), and Antonia Dreykov/Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko) to achieve her goal. The fight leads them to realise they all have been double-crossed when they discover a man amongst the rubbish in the facility named Bob (Lewis Pullman). This odd situation leads this group of unlikely allies to work together with the Winter Soldier/Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) to bring Ms de Fontaine to justice until they realise they may have bigger problems to handle. 

For those who have been on the Marvel journey over the years, seen the more obscure elements of the television shows, and paid attention to every character, you will be familiar with each character and their role. For those new to this cinematic universe or are merely on-again/ off-again fans, this will have the feel of an origin story for these characters. Either way, the whole project feels like a hard reset of the franchise as it dabbles in finding fresh faces to reintroduce the world to this vast array of superheroes or at least the wannabes. With whispers to DC’s Suicide Squad and even the shadows of the Guardians of the Galaxy, this unlikely team may be needed to bring audiences back to the cinema again. 

Without giving too much away within this twisted storyline, director Jake Schreier (Paper Towns) has managed to find the balance needed to regain the trust of the MCU faithful while enticing new fans to show up for this film. There is a strong theme that addresses the issues of mental health and depression, which makes this screenplay meatier than most Marvel films. Yet, there are no hidden agendas amongst the characters as they do their best to do what this franchise has done throughout the years to entertain. Florence Pugh proves to be the unlikely leader, Sebastian Stan is uber-cool, Wayne Russell makes the case for being the better Captain America and David Harbour is the scene stealer and brings all the humour we need to laugh amongst the action. While Hannah John-Kamen and Lewis Pullman’s characters add enough nuance to cause everyone to second guess the intentions of this bizarre team. 

Thunderbolts* earns their asterisk and has laid the groundwork for a new phase in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Some argue they are there to open the door to The Fantastic Four better than Captain America. In reality, this oddball outfit is just what fans have been yearning to see. As they come out of the shadows, audiences will want to know more about them all, and these unlikely heroes may be what is needed to save the franchise and cinemas.

Reel Dialogue: Can Mental Health be a Superpower?

One unexpected element within this screenplay was the inclusion of a discussion on the importance of addressing mental health issues. Yelena Belova and most of the characters are broken people who are dealing with one or more conditions. Yet, a storyline like this one does more than reboot a struggling franchise; it manages to smash open the door to this topic that is at the forefront of a generation.

Despite modern advancements and education, people still have a hard time knowing how to respond to the topic of mental illness. It is not new to society; throughout the Bible, there are references to individuals who struggle with these internal challenges. The realities portrayed in the Bible help to show that the answers can be found in the words of Jesus. God can help through the journey, and know that seeking help is better than struggling alone.

Casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you. – 1 Peter 5:7

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

The Bluey’s World season has been officially extended through to February 2026, with fans of the hit TV show travelling from all corners of the globe to visit.

Since opening in November 2024, Bluey’s World has already welcomed 200,000 visitors, a significant milestone that reflects the attraction’s popularity with families, fans and travellers alike.

The immersive experience, inspired by the globally loved TV series Bluey, has also gained international recognition, recently earning a coveted spot on TIME Magazine’s 2025 World’s Greatest Places to Visit list – a nod to its growing status as a must-see destination.

Andrew Kay, who is the producer and creative behind Bluey’s World said “The response to Bluey’s World has been phenomenal. Seeing families laugh, play, and explore the attraction firsthand has been incredibly rewarding. We set out to create a truly special experience, and it’s wonderful to watch it become a must-visit Brisbane destination for fans of all ages.”

The lucky 200,000th visitor to Bluey’s World Ben Armstrong, who was visiting with his partner and two daughters from Perth, was recently gifted an exclusive VIP Blue Card – granting unlimited access to Bluey’s World. They join fellow Bluey fans with Blue Cards, including Eva Mendes, Chris Hemsworth and Kylie Minogue.

Andrew Powell MP, Queensland’s Minister for Environment and Tourism, and Minister for Science and Innovation praised Bluey’s World for delivering significant economic benefits to the region, attracting visitors from across Australia as well as New Zealand, North America, United Kingdom, Canada and Singapore.

“Bluey’s World is a global sensation, drawing fans from around the world to the Heeler family’s home state of Queensland. We anticipate that Bluey’s World will help to generate as much as $18 million for our state economy, as visitors make the most of our hotels, restaurants and other hospitality in their time here. Reaching this milestone is a fantastic achievement and we hope to attract 200,000 more across the now extended season of the event.”

Adrian Schrinner, Brisbane Lord Mayor also acknowledged the attraction’s impact on the city.

“Brisbane is Australia’s lifestyle capital and Bluey showcases our great city to millions of fans worldwide. Celebrating 200,000 visitors at Bluey’s World is a wonderful reflection of the series’ success and what it’s done for our local economy. Allowing fans to experience Bluey’s hometown in real life is another way Brisbane is capturing global attention as one of the best places in the world to visit.”

Bluey’s World is in Brisbane at 281 Macarthur Drive, Hamilton Northshore. Pre-release tickets are set for Tuesday 6 May 2025, ahead of the general public on-sale from Wednesday 7 May 2025.

Article supplied with thanks to 96five.

Feature image: Melanie Zanetti (Chilli) & Dave McCormack (Bandit) at Bluey’s World in Brisbane (supplied BBC Studios).

From the bright lights of a 90s sitcom to the charming mystery towns of Hallmark movies, Candace Cameron Bure has grown up on screen, and audiences have grown with her.

Best known for her early role as DJ Tanner on Full House, Candace’s evolution from child star to one of television’s most recognisable faces is a story of longevity, talent, and heart. And at the centre of her adult career lies a role that fans have embraced with open arms: the smart, curious, and endlessly relatable Aurora Teagarden.

The Early Days: A Star is Born

Candace Cameron Bure first won hearts as the wholesome, level-headed big sister on Full House, beginning her time on the show at just 10 years old. The role catapulted her into stardom during the golden age of family sitcoms, making her a household name. After Full House ended, she stepped back from the spotlight to focus on her personal life and family – but her passion for storytelling never faded.

Return to the Screen and a New Chapter

In the 2000s, Candace returned to acting, reuniting with fans through appearances on various television shows and eventually reprising her iconic role in Fuller House, the Netflix reboot of Full House. However, it was her move into the world of made-for-TV films – particularly those on the Hallmark Channel – that marked the start of a new, remarkable chapter.

Stepping into Mystery: The Aurora Teagarden Series

One of Candace’s most celebrated roles is that of Aurora “Roe” Teagarden, the spirited librarian-turned-sleuth at the heart of Hallmark’s Aurora Teagarden Mysteries, based on the novels by Charlaine Harris. Since 2015, Bure led the series with charm and intelligence, drawing viewers into Aurora’s world of small-town secrets, clever clues, and gripping cases.

As Aurora, Candace blends warmth with wit, creating a character who is as passionate about justice as she is about books. The series has become a standout success, praised for its mix of mystery, heart, and family-friendly storytelling. For many fans, Aurora Teagarden is more than just a mystery series – it’s comfort viewing at its finest, led by a character who feels like a friend.

Beyond the Camera

Off-screen, Candace is a producer, author, and entrepreneur, with several best-selling books and a growing presence in family entertainment. She’s known for her strong values, love of family, and commitment to creating uplifting content – something that’s clearly reflected in the Aurora Teagarden series.

A Lasting Legacy

Candace Cameron Bure’s career is a rare blend of consistency and evolution. From sitcoms to mysteries, from childhood fame to creative control, she’s carved out a space for herself that’s both enduring and inspiring. Her portrayal of Aurora Teagarden stands as a highlight in a career full of heartwarming performances and loyal fans.

As viewers continued to follow Roe’s journey- from puzzling out local crimes to navigating romance and friendship – it’s clear that Candace found a role as beloved as her earliest one, and perhaps even more impactful.

You can stream instalments of Aurora Teagarden Mysteries on GOOD.

Article supplied with thanks to GOOD.

Images: Candace Cameron Bure in Full House and in Aurora Teagarden Mysteries

About the Author: Sharon Fitness is a movie buff, foodie, dog lover and tv fan.

For all of the world’s sceptics who wonder why Minecraft has been made into a movie, all you have to do is look at the numbers for your answer.

This procedurally generated, three-dimensional world has become the best-selling video game ever. A big statement that all game developers wish could be said of their game, but with over 300 million copies sold to back up their claim that Minecraft rules the gaming world.

To make a film about this virtual infinite terrain existence makes sense when you look into the numbers. Still, the creative practicalities may prove to be more of a challenge. In the hands of Napoleon Dynamite director, Jared Hess, there may be something worth discovering by fans and those who have never ventured into this cubical realm.

Originally discovered by expert crafter and miner, Steve (Jack Black), this world of building voxels (blocks) becomes a dream world for the man searching for his identity outside the real world. When his dream world comes under threat by Malgosha (Rachel House) and her minions, he sends his trusty wolf, Dennis, off to hide the power that will keep his nemesis from taking over his world. Unwittingly, Steve has put in motion the actions that will bring together Garrett ‘The Garbage Man’ Garrison (Jason Momoa), Henry (Sebastian Hansen), Natalie (Emma Myers) and Dawn (Danielle Brooks), who must help to protect Steve’s world and their own from disaster.

It Helps If You Understand the Game

Three elements of this film become apparent within moments of Jack Black coming on screen that will determine if people will desire to see the unfolding of this story. First, viewers must know the game to engage with what unfolds within this convoluted storyline. As llamas, pigs, sheep, zombies and villagers walk through the fields, only those connected with the gaming platform can appreciate the humour or building blocks of the screenplay. The second prominent aspect that all must be ready to accept is that the Kung Fu Panda actor will take over the next 100 minutes of your life. Granted, Jason Momoa does his best to command the attention of all involved. Still, the reality is that this is Jack Black’s film, and his pint-sized, bearded personality will be the focus of all that is familiar with his talents.

As the building blocks of this review are stacked up, the third piece of this puzzle may not be as apparent. Yet, it is likely the most essential ingredient for audiences to accept and truly embrace this bizarre journey into a square reality beyond their own. This is the Jared Hess factor. For fans of Napoleon Dynamite and Nacho Libre, the quirky and unique comedy styles that include tater tots (potato gems) and a fascination with 80’s fashion will make this palatable. Those souls willing to embrace this cinematic trifecta should ready themselves for a whimsical journey into this fantasy geometric world. Still, suppose any of these components fail to square with your movie-going preferences. In that case, A Minecraft Movie may not be the welcomed entertainment portal you seek to enter. On the other hand, these might be the very building blocks to pleasure you seek, making this Jack Black film your dream movie.

REEL DIALOGUE: Should we build into our dreams?

A Minecraft Movie may have limited appeal to the devoted fans of the game. Yet, this story builds on the idea of how our dreams shape our lives. As audiences see someone overcoming odds, digging into their imaginations, and achieving their dreams, it does have a profound effect on the spirit of individuals. Even though most of us may never have wanted to play Minecraft, this should not dissuade people from pursuing their dreams.

From a Christian position, goals and dreams are not merely for the individual. The actual source for these pursuits finds its roots in God and his purposes for life. In scriptures like Psalm 139, we are fearfully and wonderfully made by God, which moves our lives from ordinary to extraordinary—not because of who we are but because of God, the author and director of our lives.

A question that may arise from this film may be about your dreams and pursuits, but how do we discern their origin? The best place to start building the answer is to ask these questions of God through prayer and engaging with the Bible.

If you would like to discuss topics from this film and the Bible. Reach out to us at Third Space. We would love to chat about this and more.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

The Chosen series has taken the world by storm with a story that dates back over two centuries and is beloved by millions of Christians throughout history.

Dallas Jenkins developed this series using a crowdfunding method that has garnered a devout following around the globe. While making Jonathan Roumie and the rest of the cast internationally recognisable and bringing the story of Jesus into homes, unlike any other time in television history. Along with 5&2 Studios conquering the world of television, they have found that launching the series in cinemas has given them even more access to audiences who love or may just discover this timeless narrative.

The fifth season has been packaged under the label of Last Supper. A portion of Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem spans all four gospel accounts. It proves to be the stepping stone towards the eventual crucifixion of the Saviour. Dallas Jenkins opens with the disciples sitting at the table with Jesus as he shares some of his most famous teachings. Yet, the episodes weave through the moments from when the Messiah and his followers entered the city to the events, including the supper and his eventual betrayal. The cinematic release consists of the first two episodes of the series. It will leave viewers yearning for the following chapters to be released.

One of the clear benchmarks of this cultural phenomenon is the commitment to quality and how the creators have innovatively honoured history. Jesus’ teachings are never compromised, but they are given new life as the emotion of each situation provides a three-dimensional aspect to these familiar texts. Humour, drama, and action are added to keep the audience engaged regardless of familiarity with the story. These theatrical releases will appeal to devoted fans. They should catalyse those just beginning the pilgrimage to look into the first four seasons. Granted, these productions are made for the series and have an episodic feel. Yet, this will not detract from their watchability, entertainment and inspirational value.

The Chosen: Last Supper—Episodes 1 and 2 — have something to offer those willing to get their tickets and experience their favourite series on the big screen with friends and family. It is a cinematic encounter that will reward and challenge all who are willing to travel into Jerusalem with Jesus and his disciples.

Reel Dialogue: Can we take artistic license with the Bible’s stories?

This has been a debate since the beginning, especially when the Bible’s words were on the big screen. Some of the first films ever produced were Bible stories, and they continue to be a source of inspiration for creatives to create screenplays and movies. Over the past century of cinematic history, the discussions about how far to take the artistry with these beloved texts continue.

No one can argue the influence of Ben Hur, The Ten Commandments, The Passion of the Christ, the Jesus film and even The Chosen on people’s lives throughout history. Yet, all had their critics for their interpretations of Bible stories. So, how does someone discern how far is ‘too far’ in the artistry? There is a subjectivity to it all, but a few things may make it easier to know how to answer this question.

The first question is whether you know your Bible well enough to understand the difference between mere interpretation and Biblical fact. Before judging a film’s accuracy, the challenge is for people to study their Bible and know how to discern the differences.

Secondly, if there are extra-Biblical elements, do they complement or detract from the message? Again, you need to know your Bible to answer this question. Still, this is an important question to ask when watching depictions of the Bible. Thankfully, the team at The Chosen have done their due diligence to complement the words of the Bible instead of detracting from their intentions.

Finally, if watching the Bible on screen is too much for you, don’t watch. The Lord has given you the freedom to make decisions for yourself. These three questions will help viewers understand the question of artistic license and hopefully challenge us all to read the Bible.

The Chosen—Season Five does artistically add story elements. Still, its purpose and intentions are meant to lift up Jesus’s person. The series does not compromise the Saviour’s message. Instead, it has managed to get His story before audiences worldwide.

“And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.”  Philippians 1:9-10

For those looking more information about Jesus, the Third Space team is here for you. We would love to chat with you about this and more.

If you would like to discuss the topics from this film and the Bible. Reach out to us at Third Space. We would love to chat about this and more.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

In opening up the discussion on the cultural phenomenon of Dog Man, you should take a step back and familiarise yourself with Captain Underpants.

Children’s comic book author Dav Pilkey has been working on projects over the years that have captured children’s imaginations of multiple generations and impacted parents’ budgets worldwide. Along with many of his other titles, the Captain Underpants series was a huge hit, but the spin-off of Dog Man took Pilkey’s fame to new crime-fighting heights.

Thankfully, I entered the theatre for the screening of Dog Man with my grandson, a resident expert on the subject. As we travelled to the event, George explained all of the nuances of this crime-fighting man with a dog’s head grafted on after a near-death experience when trying to apprehend the villainous orange cat named Petey (Pete Davidson). Yes, it is a bizarre concept, but understand that the comics are written from the perspective of George and Harold, nine-year-old boys who develop this world.

A city where Dog Man (Peter Hastings) fights crime alongside Chief (Lil Rel Howery) and must do all he can to keep Petey and his family from taking over the city with the help of numerous robots and telekinetic Flippy the Fish (Ricky Gervais). In this world, value is placed on tennis balls, ridding the world of squirrels and seeing the potential good in everyone, especially the villain’s clone, Li’l Petey (Lucas Hopkins Calderon).

Get a kid to explain it to you

For all those reading this and find yourself struggling to follow the logic or any of the storylines, the key to enjoying this film and unpacking its appeal is to find a pre-teen boy to go along with you, have him explain every element of the tale and all will be made clear. Dreamworks has tapped into an imaginative reality created by Dav Pilkey and director Peter Hastings that goes beyond comprehension. Yet, they unapologetically acknowledge their audience and give them everything, I mean everything. These young boys want in a crime-fighting hero.

There is no need for reason to apply to this film and timelines don’t need to make sense in this world, which moves along with logic that only makes sense in the minds of those who adore this book series and its unlikely canine protagonist. Like a new roller coaster at the local theme park, if you allow yourself to get on the ride and let it take you where it wants to, this could be a thrilling afternoon of family entertainment.

Despite being confused and wondering what had just happened as the closing credits rolled, I turned to my grandson. He looked at me with an enthusiastic look, shook his head with satisfaction and said, “Now, wasn’t that a good movie, grandpa?” All I could say was, “Yeah, through your eyes, today that was a good movie, George.” Dog Man is one of those films that is comfortable in its own skin and delivers precisely what it is meant to provide. It is a film about dogs, cats, tennis balls, robots, telekinetic fish, and laughs for all the children who have loved these books over the years. This review can be wrapped up in that one-sentence review from my grandson, and all I could do was agree and enjoy the conversation on the train ride home.

What do parents need to know about Dog Man?

The best advice for anyone taking their child to this film is to read one or more of the Dog Man books. Better yet, let your son or grandson read it to you. It will make no sense because the story comes from the nonsensical minds of pre-teenage boys. Still, when you hear their enthusiasm and excitement about the storyline, it is no wonder this film will have so much laughter during your screening. If there are any warnings for children, this isn’t really for little children. From experience, all those under the age of five will struggle to keep up with this film. Otherwise, this is the film for you this season for all those with tweens in the house.

Some conversation suggestions for your own Dog Man fan…

Surprisingly, there are some meaningful and worthwhile discussion points for parents to ask of the kids on the car ride home after the film.

• Why is Lil’ Petey able to be liked by everyone? (Innocent love for others). John 13:34b – Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.
• What’s important about family and forgiving one another? (Family members make mistakes, but forgiveness helps to love one another) Ephesians 4:32 – Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

If you’ve been around Christian music for a while, you’ll no doubt remember the era of Easterfest.

Originally named the Australian Gospel Music Festival for its first nine years, Easterfest was a Christian music festival that ran in Toowoomba, from 1999 until 2015.

This year marks a decade since the last ever Easterfest event, and a series of interviews in the brand-new podcast, The Rise and Fall of Easterfest, explores the incredible Easterfest story.

Over the course of 17 years, thousands of artists graced the stages of the Australian Gospel Music Festival and Easterfest.

Some were just finding their feet and trying to establish a following, while some of the international artists were huge, both in the Christian and mainstream music scenes. Bands like Switchfoot and Naturally 7 had huge crossover appeal.

In the early days, the Australian Gospel Music Festival reflected very much what the name said, with the overwhelming number of acts being Australian.

In the late 90s and early 2000s, Australia’s independent Christian artists were thriving, with healthy scenes active along the eastern seaboard as well as Adelaide and Perth. Melbourne, Brisbane and northern New South Wales in particular were producing artists of an extremely high calibre.

In Victoria, acts like the Paul Colman Trio, Antiskeptic, Claire Hazzard, Sons of Korah and Compliments of Gus were leading the charge.

New South Wales ska band The Frugals had amassed a solid following in Brisbane and Sydney following epic performances at Brisbane’s Groundswell festival, and Sydney’s Black Stump.

Meanwhile in Brisbane, groups such as Beanbag, Battered Fish (later Leo Nine), Rhubarb, Dumpster, Tonjip and Elementary Penguin had banded together under the banner of Toupee Records, which had been started by the three members of Battered Fish – Jeremy Bennett, Caleb James and Matthew Gray.

Other Queensland-based groups were prolific in that time as well, including Alabaster Box, Soulframe and Rookie.

“Not only did you have Easterfest and Sonfest, you also had festivals like Groundswell that were another opportunity for bands like us to play at,” said Nathaniel McManus (aka Macca) from the band Rookie.

“People went to shows, people loved going to see live music, and I think the bands in Brisbane connected in a way that people wanted to come and see them. It was an amazing, healthy music scene with some incredible bands.”

As the festival grew through the early 2000s, organizers were now able to book higher-profile acts including Guy Sebastian, Rebecca St James, Pillar, Superchick and Newsboys.

Booking the international contingent of Easterfest and AGMF was always the most challenging component for festival organisers, with some acts taking many years to get across the line.

“At times that was an eighteen month to two-year process in terms of booking artists, not for the next festival, but for the one after,” former event director Dave Schenk said on the podcast.

“In some cases, it was more like a seven-year process.   The year we finally got Michael W. Smith, it was like, ‘I’ve only been trying to do this for seven years!’  He was very involved in his local church, so trying to get him to come to Australia on the Easter weekend was difficult.  We had this challenge with a few artists who were very committed to their churches that and would say, sorry, it’s Easter, I’m at home.”

The AGMF and Easterfest festivals weren’t just a haven for the typical pop/rock fare; over the years genres like jazz, metal and worship were important elements of the event’s programming, too.

Brisbane jazz four-piece Scat were festival mainstays for well over a decade, when in 2014 and 2015 they set up their own jazz club – The Up Beat – which ran for the entirety of the Easter weekend.

Over the years, worship artists as diverse as Robin Mark (Northern Ireland), Ascend the Hill (Florida, USA), Rueben Morgan and Darlene Zschech (both of Australia) were featured, while in 2013 and 2014, there was 72 hours of non-stop worship music.

You can hear some of the stories of Easterfest’s music in the 2^nd episode of The Rise & Fall of Easterfest, available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, Omny, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Article supplied with thanks to 96five.

Feature image: Easterfest, by Trent Rouillon

Since the release of The Godfather, the Mafia has become a mainstay in Hollywood productions.

Two figures that loomed large in this criminal underworld were Vito Genovese and Frank Costello, who were childhood friends who grew up to be leaders in this worldwide organisation. Their story and eventual personal war became legendary and have interested studios since the 1970s. Yet, not until Goodfellas/Casino screenwriter Nicholas Pileggi and Academy Award-winning director Barry Levinson (Rain Man) were given the project did this compelling story get the green light.

Robert DeNiro (The Irishman, Killers of the Flower Moon) takes on both roles of crime bosses, Vito Genovese and Frank Costello. A twisted tale that begins at the catalyst that led to these long standing friends being on opposite sides of the underworld that spanned decades. When Vito attempts and fails to have Frank assassinated, the wheels are put into motion for the eventual changes needed in leadership. Yet, Levinson has Frank narrate this docudrama that incorporates actual historical footage as it jumps from the past to the events after the unsuccessful hit on his life. The story captures the polarising methods both men incorporated to further their work in all areas of crime.

Pileggi, Levinson and DeNiro are legends and have conquered much within the industry and continue to make waves in their senior years. The monumental task of taking both lead characters was convincing as the award-winning actor took on both roles in convincing form. Though the aging process and make-up work had some challenges keeping up throughout the production, DeNiro sat in both characters effectively. Kathrine Narducci, Michael Rispoli, and Cosmo Jarvis were convincing in their support for the story and complemented the overall production. Yet, the weakest inclusion was Debra Messing, who never felt like she sat comfortably in the mob boss’ wife role. This issue could be attributed to the significant age difference in the actors.

Meticulous Detail in a Non-Linear Narrative

What stands out as a juxtaposition of this storyline falls squarely in the words and direction of Barry Levinson’s direction and Nicholas Pileggi’s screenplay. This pairing makes for a carefully formulated management of the years of friendly animosity between the two crime figures. Meticulous detail is conveyed in narrative form and methodically woven through the years in a non-linear fashion that can lead to confusion or potential lethargy amongst the multiple discourses from both characters. Despite being actual events in the history of the mob, the action comes in small doses as the war of words ensues between these historical figures.

The Alto Knights will appeal to those fascinated with the world of crime throughout American history and Robert DeNiro proves he still has the ability to take on double duty in any production. Yet, this docudrama suffers from a lethargic tone that would have benefited from more action and less talk.

REEL DIALOGUE: Is loyalty a blessing or a curse?

Loyalty is both fascinating and confusing. It is defined as being faithful to something or someone. Vito Genovese and Frank Costello’s friendship spanned the years and proved valuable but eventually became a curse. These two men defined how the mob world could be managed differently and how these paths struggle to complement one another. Their relationship begs the question, why do we choose to be loyal or faithful to anyone? It seems rooted in wanting to place implicit trust in the person we put our faith in and knowing that this loyalty will be reciprocated.

The Bible attaches a deeper meaning to the idea of loyalty. God is the only one entirely faithful. He is faithful even when his followers are faithless. The thing to consider is that loyalty can be fleeting with mankind, but with God, we can find real loyalty and someone true to their word.

‘Peter said to him, “Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you!” And all the disciples said the same.’ Matthew 26:35

For students of the Bible, they will appreciate the irony of using this passage as an example of loyalty. A historical statement in the life of Peter that would show that the only person genuinely loyal in this life is Jesus.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.