Hurtigruten Nordic Film Festival Opening Night Reception And Premiere Screening of ÁRRU Rating
★★★★★
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What happens when the person you rely on to save almost everything you know and love also turns out to be a monster? Can you walk away? How do you negotiate the constant challenges to life and culture? Do the young want to carry on the flame? These are some of the core questions in Árru, Elle Sofe Sara’s striking debut feature focusing on the lives and culture of the Sami people that inhabit the Sápmi region of Norway, Sweden, and Finland. What better film to represent the unified yet separate cultures showcased at the 2026 Nordic Film Festival.
Using a mixture of genre styles, from surreal cinema, family drama, to musical, Árru starts in white snows of winter covering a vast, almost empty landscape. After the bloody miscarriage of a reindeer, traditional herder Maia (Sara Mariell Gaup Beaska) buries the tiny body in the snow. Together with her brother Danel (Simon Issát Marainen) and daughter Ailin (Ayla Garen Nutti), they continue the rustic life of the Sami, tending to their reindeer, killing and butchering them for meat and clothing. After the snow retreats for summer, the vast grasslands of summer form the backdrop of the narrative drama. We learn that a mining conglomerate is planning to build a large copper mine, reducing the grazing land available. This will force a mass culling of the reindeer and with it the destruction of Maia’s livelihood and her way of life.
Leading the fight is Maia’s charismatic lawyer brother Lemme (Mikkel Gaup), who successfully campaigned against a similar situation in Canada. As he rallies the community through protest and song, Maia and Danel remain wary around Lemme. This reluctance to embrace their possibly saviour and Lemme’s grip of power over his family and the town threatens Maia’s relationship with Ailin, one of his strongest advocates. The film then slowly reveals Lemme’s real character. First, Ailin discovers that Lemme is not as trustworthy as she first believed, and then a drunken confession by Danel at a celebration of culture reveals a dark past that shatters the community. They need Lemme to save their way of life, but can they still allow him to live amongst them.
Sara uses music and song throughout to connect Maia with her ancestors and home, and is clearly an important life of Sami culture. Musical numbers sometimes break the dramatic flow of the film, but remaining beautiful and interesting. During one of the protests, however, traditional song turns into a music video style dance number that seemed like an odd stylistic choice and a bold contrast to the grounded realism of the drama. But that wasn’t enough to pull me out. The performances were authentic and powerful, especially Simon Issát Marainen, who at first seemed brooding and surly but then when we discover why, draws from us empathy and understanding. And while the dramatic narrative forms the core structure of the film and provides plenty of intrigue and conflict, the most appealing part of the film for me was just spending time with the last remaining indigenous group in Europe.
Árru can be seen as part of the Nordic film festival playing nation wide at Palace Cinemas.
The Good Food and Wine show returned to the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre (PCEC) for another fabulous year of tastings, cooking demos and a chance to experience the best our beautiful state, and others, have to offer.
Western Australia is known for its wine regions, with the Swan Valley just a hop, skip and a jump for most of us to reach and of course the stunning Margaret River and surrounds where you will find most of Perth as soon as a long weekend pops up on the calendar. While several WA wineries were on display this year, those who can’t quite justify the exorbitant flight prices east were in for a treat, with tastings from South Australia’s best across the Barossa, McLaren Vale and Clare Valley.
My taste in wine has usually leaned towards whites and the occasional rosé, but in recent years I’ve become partial to a lightweight red to complement a meal. The Barossa is known for its Shiraz, so it was the perfect chance to sample a few. Wine not your thing? Never fear. The growing number of distilleries was exciting to see, with my unofficial award for prettiest display (and best name) going to Billy Stitch Distillery. The most unexpected pop-up had curious customers sipping peanut butter whisky, which I’m still not quite sure about.
There’s something for everyone, with general admission from $49.95 and the option to add a tasting glass. Serious foodies and winos could upgrade to one (or several) of a large selection of masterclasses, or the cooking school. The ultimate experience on offer, though, would have to be the VIP Lounge presented by Singapore Airlines. At $185 it includes a three course lunch inspired by their First and Business Class menus, five glasses of wine plus a bottle to take home. For those of us who dream of sitting at the pointy end of the plane, this might be the closest we get.
Just making the most of the included offerings? The cooking stage, aka The Good Food Kitchen, was the place to be, with standing room only for Miguel Maestre. You never know what you’re going to get from Miguel, and he did not disappoint. From wielding a samurai sword as part of his food prep to a musical interlude on a toy saxophone backed by a drummer, you didn’t want to look away. And don’t get me started on the mouthwatering katsu sandwiches he was making… yum!
The SmoothFM Drinks Lab was a popular, calmer option, with complimentary 30-minute tasting sessions showcasing different regions and a Spirit Lovers Masterclass to end the day. Sessions were walk-in only, so you had to be quick. We sadly weren’t, but still enjoyed listening in.
You can spot the seasoned attendees a mile off, wheely trolleys at the ready. Those without the boot space, or who came in on the train, could wander over to Australia Post’s Pick and Pack to have their wine home delivered. Spotting this early on felt seriously dangerous, removing any excuse of “we can’t carry all this”.
Those just there for the food could graze between stalls offering tastings of cheese, nuts and even water drops (which I had no idea was a thing).
The Good Food and Wine Show may be over for another year, but I’m sure most attendees headed home with more than a couple of bottles of a new favourite wine, or like me, a dish they’re determined to recreate. Although I think I’ll leave the samurai sword to Miguel.
Imagine crossing the rainbow street and walking into Qtopia on the first day of Pride month, only to be greeted by the one and only Kala Gare’s and Kala’s incredibly beautiful, smiling face! Well, I don’t have to imagine, because that’s how this year’s Homo Grown kicked off for me.
Home Grown Australia, are pioneers championing new theatre and musical theatre works in Australia. What started as a backyard pub meeting, now has the backing of MTIA and the Australian Government. Founded by Nick Hedger and Ben Nicholson, Home Grown have nurtured beloved Australian new works such as My Brilliant Career, FANGIRLS and A Trans Woman On The Internet, Crying.
Homo Grown is a Pride-full celebration of queer Aussie new works to be produced, to come and in progress. The queer celebration in the room was electric, not least of all because the multi-talented Kala Gare was guiding the ship.
Kala kicked us off with an original “Hello” that speaks to “Letting freedom flow”, which was a great set up for the night. Kala’s skillful piano along with an incredible voice and sharp, relatable lyrics had us strapped in for “a wild ride, to say the least.”
Next up was Phoebe Rodger with the title song from upcoming “Phoebs, You’re A Lesbian” on June 10th – 12th at QTopia. Described as “a letter to my younger self”, this song was earnest, clever, cute, hilarious and relatable. Much like Phoebe. The second song was from a “yet to come” musical, it took us on a humorous journey of Phoebe’s ideal career discovery through a career’s test.
Cassie Hamilton and Nic Prior then took to the stage for a snippet from Afterglow by Sheanna Parker Russon & Lillian M. Hearne which will be showing at the Belvoir and is described as a “Barbershop rom-com”. Lillian introduced the piece and began to play, while Nic tore us into their deep, tender and sombre beginning. Cassie joined in and the duet echoed the lyrics “With you I fit”. Nic’s tender fragility of emotion is in stark contrast to the power of their voice, while Cassie’s sombre moments are only magnified by the reality of her powerhouse vocals. Cassie took to a solo called “Normal Michael” in which we got more of that voice, and what I can only describe as four seasons in one face, as we join the emotional journey of the character Cassie is embodying.
Matt Hawke then took us into their song from upcoming “Beautiful Lies” on June 11th-14th at the Substation Qtopia. Described as one of the lies unpacked in therapy, we deep dive into Matt’s 20 year old identity exploration wrapped in self-deprecating humour. None of us saw the sharp turn from this jaunty piano-pleaser into an acoustic guitar heartwrenching homage to Matt’s deceased dog. It left the majority of the room in tears, and awe at its beauty.
Robbie Alexander and Alex Gonzales had to wipe away tears and reset for their performance from “Twenty-Something”. Alex played the character, Charlie’s Mum, deadpanning that “I’m wearing a cardigan so you know I’m a mum.” and meeting a lot of laughter. Alex performed “Long Story Short” with power, emotion and a lot of talent. Robbie performed “Delightfully Gay”, showing us the tug of war between Angel and devil on the shoulder and reinforcing the lyrics “There’s no such thing as ‘a little bit much’!”
Lincoln Elliot joined forces with Kala, Natalie Abbott, Gracie Rowland, Nead Cristaudo, Alex Gonzales, and friends for a snippet from the “yet to be announced” emo-rock heist. The performance of “Creativity Is An Island showcased exceptional musicianship and a palpable musical love and collaboration between the group.
Kurt Kansley and Oli Lidert were missing in action, enjoying their time in Moulin Rouge, but Katie Staddon did them proud and then some with “More Than Words On A Page”. Katie’s vocal range is beyond comprehension, the melodies sublime. The swift shift from deep soul to angelic was out of this world.
Meg Rob took us on a solemn and sincere ride with “Step Into Infinity”, showcasing an ability to embody the characteristics of an introvert grappling with personal trauma, while knocking our socks of with some big belts. Those who saw Meg in Jagged Little Pill will be familiar with this ability to take an audience on a wonderful and surprising ride. Catch Meg’s show “Make It Queer” 25th-26th June at Loading Dock, Qtopia.
We finished with the cast and creatives from Nails 25th-27th June at The Eternity Playhouse. Created by Sophie Davis and Laura McDonald, and composer Harry Collins. This netball based comedic musical has a lot of balls (see what I did there?). Nead Cristaudo had us captivated as the coach, mixing brilliant comedic timing with powerful vocals.
Then the large ensemble cast and creatives from Nails finished us off on a high with Natalie’s gorgeous voice and some epic harmonies being the highlights of this final piece. It was an incredible finish to a night of unprecedented talents and not-to-be-missed new works! Make sure you catch these and as many Pridefest shows as you can this month. More than ever, we need to join together and support each other. Happy Pride!
The Bubbles Festival Melbourne: A celebration of all things sparkling!
Natalie Pickett founded The Bubbles Review 10 years ago, when her first blog educated those who thought Moet was spoken like the end of the word, “ballet”, with a silent T, when really, it’s pronounced “Mo-wett.” Natalie should know. When working as a tour guide in Europe, on a guided trip to Moët et Chandon, she confirmed this exact fact.
Natalie’s ‘Bubbles Reviewers’ Club’ offers members monthly rewards, tasting technique masterclasses and more discoveries and invitations via www.thebubblesreview.com
I met some of her club members on Saturday, 2nd May, for Bubbles Festival Melbourne, at River’s Edge Events in the World Trades Centre – in a room with a stunning view of the Skyline Wheel and Polly Woodside. Holding our complimentary Riedel sparkling glasses (included in our tickets), we were all thirsty to begin when Natalie welcomed our group and spoke about some important terms to remember before sampling the bubbles on offer. She reminded everyone to hold their glass by the stem, as best to view the bubbles in the middle. We were advised to enjoy the experience of each sparkling with each of our five senses; even holding the glass to our ears – as though listening to a seashell on the beach – and to take in the scent with our noses, as far as they’ll go into the glass before tasting.
“Bubbles – Just like a hug in a glass” and “ABC = Always Bring Champagne” slogans called to us from TV screens around the room. After this, we would visit all the Exhibitor tables to indulge in the exquisite selection.
In between tastings, we were served trays of various Canapés – including Truffle and Mushroom Arancini. We also indulged in a succulent seafood station and a cheese station – perfect bubbly food companions.
Ian was the friendly host from Clover Hill. He poured my first tasting with CLOVER HILL TASMANIA EXCEPTIONELLE MULTI-VINTAGE, (59% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, 6% Pinot Meunier) – a light straw/green hue in the glass, vibrant citrus and stone fruits on the nose and crisp acidity on the palette.
My second tasting was the CLOVER HILL TASMANIA ROSÉ MULTI-VINTAGE (66% Chardonnay, 29% Pinot Noir, 5% Pinot Meunier) with fresh vibrant strawberry notes upfront on the nose. The palate was layered and creamy with red forest fruits, to a balanced, long finish. This one was sweeter than the first and a little too perfumed for my taste – still a lovely sparkling.
My third taste was the CLOVER HILL BLANC DE BLANCS MULTI-VINTAGE – Tasmania with 100% Chardonnay. This one reminded me a tad of the lovely Billiecart-Salmon Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru NV from France. It too, is characterized by aromas of citrus, white peach, and brioche with a creamy texture.
Tasmanian cool-climate sparkling wines are dominating at the moment, having taken out all the trophies at the 2025 Australian Sparkling Wine Show and Clover Hill is no exception, having been recognised by The Real Review as one of the best producers in the country. They are consistently ranked among Australia’s top producers with a 5-star Halliday rating.
Ian had a fourth offer in CLOVER HILL ROSÉ D’ASSEMBLAGE MULTI-VINTAGE (63% Chardonnay, 29% Pinot Noir, 8% Pinot Meunier), which I didn’t get to sample as I felt drawn to the French table while there was a lull in the crowd.
I met Jean Paul at the Philippe Fourrier table for a quick chat. Since 1847, this family Champagne house located in Baroville, is anchored in an exceptional terroir, the Côte des Bar, in the south of Champagne appellation area.
JP’s first French pour was the CHAMPAGNE PHILIPPE FOURRIER – ROSÉ DE SAIGNÉE (NV) (90% Pinot Noir, 10% Chardonnay) with a light red to deep rosé hue and orange reflections, its fine and persistent bubbles adding elegance in the glass. The nose opened with ripe raspberry and fresh red berry aromas.
JP’s second French pour was LOUIS PERDRIER FRENCH BRUT (NV) – Bordeaux – France (100% Chardonnay), an exceptional French Sparkling. Deliciously toasty notes melt into the scent of golden apples. Gentle and harmonious on the palate with some richness tempering the citrus finish. For me, this was the best sparkling of the day.
The third French pour was CHAMPAGNE PHILIPPE FOURRIER – PINOT MEUNIER BRUT (NV) – Champagne, France (100% Pinot Meunier), with a beautiful pale-yellow hue and fine bubbles bright in the glass. The nose offered fresh red fruit aromas of subtle blackberry, hints of peach and plum. This one seemed a tad light to me after the Brut.
Lastly, I met Kathy at the Sutherland Estate stand – a small, second-generation family-owned enterprise located at a picturesque location in Dixon’s Creek, a mountainous area, past Yarra Glen in the Yarra Valley. Her first pour was SUTHERLAND ESTATE – 2021 BLANC DE BLANC SPARKLING – Yarra Valley (100% Chardonnay). Made from 100% Chardonnay in the Méthode Traditionelle, with secondary fermentation and ageing in the bottle.
Kathy’s second pour was her SUTHERLAND ESTATE – 2023 SPARKLING TEMPRANILLO (100% Tempranillo.). This renowned sparkling red is unique because we don’t often see a Tempranillo here in Australia. Sutherland have been making it for more than 12 years, and it’s all grown onsite. It has spent twelve months in seasoned barriques before undergoing secondary fermentation on lees in the bottle made Méthode Traditionelle, having a powerful burst of mid-palate fruit of berries, dark cherries, a bit of liquorice, with peppery spice and earthy undertones to finish. The palate is medium-bodied and well structured, with fine tannins and a persistent bead. A great match with cheese and charcuterie. It had the power of a sparkling Shiraz and I’m keen to visit their Cellar Door for more.
I tried the SUTHERLAND ESTATE – 2025 SPARKLING ROSÉ (with 100% hand-picked Pinot Noir). Whole bunches of Pinot are harvested from the vineyard and come into the winery and straight into the press immediately leading to the gorgeous pale salmon colour. The aromas are bright and enticing with rose petal, strawberry and perfume. On the palate were strawberries and cream. A delightful summer’s drink, but for the last glass of the day, I had to return for one last taste of the Sparkling Temperanillo.
Illustrator, Susan Kerian, who some recognised from her work with retailer, ‘Blue Illusion’, returned to showcase her original illustrations – perfect for ‘Emily In Paris’ fans and Francophiles.
All sparkling wines and Susan’s artwork could be purchased on the day so, I happily departed with my order for delivery of four of the LOUIS PERDRIER FRENCH BRUT (NV) from Bordeaux, two of the CHAMPAGNE PHILIPPE FOURRIER – PINOT MEUNIER BRUT (NV) – from Champagne in France and six of the SUTHERLAND ESTATE – 2023 SPARKLING TEMPRANILLO from the Yarra Valley, because according to F. Scott Fitzgerald, “Too much of anything is bad, but too much Champagne is just right.” Well, that’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it!
All of the exhibitors offered great deals for purchasing on the day. I’ve never understood why tastings sometimes don’t allow that, but at Bubbles Festival, you could take the wine with you on the day, or get it delivered later, which was ideal. $5 from each ticket went to the Sacred Heart Mission, St Kilda. Natalie chooses a different charity to donate to in each of her state’s events.
It was a sunny 25degree day in Melbourne and I tasted some new and exciting Sparklings and Champagnes, met like-minded and vivacious souls, feeling the fresh bubble of life, therefore, I thoroughly recommend attending the Bubbles Festival.
Here are the other states’ Bubbles Festivals, coming soon:
Brisbane – 9 May 2026 – Get your tickets here! Sydney – 22 & 23 May 2026 – Get your tickets here! Adelaide – 6 June 2026 – Get your tickets here! Perth – 20 June 2026 (TBC) – Join waitlist here!
