Staff Picks
Our Library staff have chosen four (4) recommendations, with some words explaining each pick.
They include everything from films and TV series to books, podcasts, music and beyond.
They can be accessed either online or from the Library's physical collection (for AFTRS staff and students only).
Frazer
Collection Development Librarian
Raquel
User Experience Librarian
Hayley
Library & Information Services Manager
Cathie
Receptionist
Alison
Research Support Librarian
Victoria
Assistant Librarian
Frazer
NIGHT AND THE CITY
Dir. Jules Dassin (1950)
A fun, fast noir. Richard Widmark is brilliant as an ambitious hustler running out of time. Beautifully shot in block and white, on location in London.
AGNES VARDA IN CALIFORNIA
Dir. Agnes Varda (1967-1981)
If you don’t feel inspired after watching any of these films, you better go see your doctor. Mur Murs is my fave!
THE PLUMBER
Dir. Peter Weir (1979)
A strange, funny and scary tale about a plumber that won’t leave! Originally made for tv, it ended up getting a theatrical release in several countries. Made right after Picnic at Hanging Rock, further proof that Peter Weir has range.
THE FUGITIVE
Dir. Andrew Davis (1993)
I reckon if Hitchcock had lived till the 90s a part of him might have been a little bit proud of this. Full of great set pieces and performances, this is a lot of fun, and implausible in a totally forgivable way.
Raquel
PEE-WEE'S PLAYHOUSE: SEASON 1
Prod. Paul Reubens and Richard Abramson (1986)
I’ve been watching this life-affirming, joyous, wacky, funny show from the beginning, savoring one episode every Sunday morning with my breakfast. I’m only on Season 2 after many months and to tell you the truth, I dread the day I run out of new eps!
PEE_WEE'S PLAYHOUSE: CHRISTMAS SPECIAL
Prod. Paul Reubens and Richard Abramson (1988)
It’s a Christmas tradition to watch the special on Christmas morning. I tried introducing it to my little nieces and nephews a few years ago and they were so confused by it and that was the right response.
PEE-WEE'S BIG ADVENTURE
Dir. Tim Burton (1985)
A bonafide classic. Please don’t talk to me until you’ve seen it. You don’t exist to me until you have!!!
INSIDE PEE-WEE'S PLAYHOUSE
Writ. Caseen Gaines (2011)
I actually haven’t read this yet. Sometimes I put off reading or watching something I know I’m going to really enjoy. Why? Maybe I like to just have an endless array of things to look forward to.
Hayley
COWBOYS & ALIENS
Dir. Jon Favreau (2011)
Aliens invade the old West in search of gold, luckily Harrison Ford and Daniel Craig are there to save the day. A film that takes itself way too seriously, but fun way to while away a few hours.
INDEPENDENCE DAY
Dir. Roland Emmerich (1996)
I loved this movie when it was first released, I think I must of seen it at the theatres about 4 or 5 times. While the film is a bit dated now, it is still an enjoyable film to watch and who doesn’t like to see that world defeat alien invaders?
THE ABYSS
Dir. James Cameron (1989)
The film will keep you guessing until the end of the film to discover what is going on, but a must see film for any fan of James Cameron and it even features a nice alien…
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THE FACULTY
Dir. Robert Rodriguez (1998)
Made in the late nineties during the resurgence of teenage horror film, The Faculty will keeping you guessing to the end. Think The Breakfast Club with a side of alien possession.
Cathie
BLOWN AWAY
Produced by Marblemedia (2019-present)
This show gives you an insight into the art of glass blowing. It shows the limitlessness of glass, the hard work, the frustration and the fun of designing in glass. Just maybe it will encourage you to seek out a hot glass studio.
THE GREAT POTTERY THROW DOWN
Produced by Love Productions (2015-present)
Think you can throw a pot? It's fascinating how many technical processes there are and the different results from the different clays. This competition will have you looking for a local kiln.
THE GREAT BRITISH BAKE OFF
Created by Anna Beattie (2010-present)
Have you ever thought of making a peacock out of bread, or a hanging mobile out of biscuit? This show has it all. Everyone is supportive towards each other and competitive with themselves. The show gives lots of neat pointers. It's hard not to want to bake.
THE GREAT BRITISH SEWING BEE
Produced by Love Productions (2013-present)
Have you ever wanted to learn heaps about sewing techniques and materials, get tips and ideas? This is the show. The spirit-lifting sight of beauty springing from human hands makes this a soothing balm for the soul.
Alison
DELICATESSEN
Dir. Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Marc Caro (1991)
This film’s approach to culinary creativity, where food serves as a metaphor for unconventional human relationships, is visually stunning and oh-so-dark.
WAITRESS
Dir. Adrienne Shelly (2007)
This charming film beautifully captures the therapeutic nature of baking. A waitress has a talent for crafting unique and delicious pies – this film is a sweet and poignant celebration of personal growth and empowerment through food.
CHEF
Dir. Jon Favreau (2014)
This heartwarming film explores the joy of cooking and sharing food. Through its simple yet authentic portrayal, the film emphasizes the pleasure of culinary craft and transformative self-discovery.
BOILING POINT
Dir. Philip Barantini (2021)
This film captures the raw intensity of the restaurant world, exploring the challenges and sacrifices of a high-pressure kitchen. Shot in a single take, this film will keep you on the edge of your seat, with held breath!
Victoria
THE VIRGIN SUICIDES
Dir. Sofia Coppola (1999)
Warning, this will haunt you. It’s not scary, but it will fill you with questions such as how did the Lisbon sisters become the way they did, why did they make certain choices, and lastly, why of all things does it feel closer to home than it should? I love this story. Very thought provoking but also engaging!
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BEDKNOBS AND BROOMSTICKS
Dir. Robert Stevenson (1971)
Welcome to nostalgia! If you haven’t seen this delight, I urge you to watch it. Follow apprentice witch Eglantine and the children that have come to stay with her on a whirlwind of adventures! This movie really is a warm blanket in winter, also sensationally more chaotic than Mary Poppins!
ANNA KARENINA
Dir. Joe Wright (2012)
A truly mesmerizing adaption of the famous Tolstoy book with the same name. Each character has such intensive depth that it further enriches the opulent scenes and costumes of Imperial Russian aristocracy. A spinning zoetrope of affairs, love, death, and marriages.
BRIDE AND PREJUDICE
Dir. Gurinder Chadha (2004)
This whole movie is a 10/10. Vibrant colours, hilarious comedy, and cute romance! The setting fits Austen’s story so well but gives it that modern boost for entertainment. It’s musical, it’s adorable, and I’m still chuckling!