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).
Collection Development Librarian
Theme: Recent Faves
Frazer's Picks
A New Leaf
Dir: Elaine May (1971)
Inspired, eccentric comedy. There’s a playful, unconventional energy in almost every scene and situation, and a rare, winning voice of deadpan humor and genuine heart.
The Watermelon Woman
Dir: Cheryl Dunye (1996)
A bold and playful exploration of identity, history and relationships, this is a gem or 90s American independent cinema.
24 Hour Party People
Dir: Michael Winterbottom (2002)
One of my favorite films about music and the memories and communities it creates. If you are on its wavelength: you’ll laugh, you’ll cry, it’ll change your life.
Eastern Boys
Dir: Robin Campillo (2013)
Both a romantic drama and a gripping thriller, this film is very impressive in the way it moves confidently between genres. Nothing better than having no idea where a film is going to go, but also knowing you’re in safe hands
Engagement and Outreach Librarian
Theme: The Liz Taylor Edition!
Raquel's Picks
Boom!
Dir: Joseph Losey (1968)
Liz Taylor is Sissy Goforth the richest woman alive, living on her personal island where she’s dictating her life story to her strong-stomached assistant, when suddenly The Angel of Death arrives in the form of Richard Burton. Honorable mention to Noël Coward as The Witch of Capri. Adapted from Tennessee William’s play The Milk Train Doesn't Stop Here Anymore.
The Driver’s Seat
Dir: Giuseppe Patroni Griffi (1974)
Liz Taylor is a deranged woman who travels to Rome, on a mission to find “her type” – not for love, but for death. If that doesn’t make sense, I challenge you to make sense of this film! Who cares about sense though? Liz is at her most mesmerizing here and I pine for her whenever the camera looks away. Also featuring a bizarre cameo by Andy Warhol! I’m here for all of it.
Secret Ceremony
Dir: Joseph Losey (1968)
Another Joseph Losey gem. Can we talk about Losey? Does anyone know and love this director as much as I? Hello? Is anyone out there?
Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
Dir: Mike Nichols (1966)
I could watch this nasty nasty film every day and never get tired. Liz & Dick: what a powerhouse couple!! They are magnetic. Their performances are so convincing that you actually feel that this is what the were like in private. Drunk and bickering and constantly sniping at each other. Non-stop mind games! Sandy Dennis and George Segal are perfect as the pushed-around guests who find themselves trapped in their company.!
Library & Information Services Manager
Theme: YA Adventures
Hayley's Picks
Divergent
Dir: Neil Burger (2014)
Experience the heart-pounding world of Divergent as we follow the adventure of Tris as she tries to save her friends and family in a bleak dystopian future. This thrilling adventure film is perfect for fans of action and courage!
The Hunger Games
Dir: Gary Ross (2012)
Enter the world of The Hunger Games, where Katniss Everdeen olunteers to take her sister's place in a deadly televised competition. This film will keep you on the edge of your seat, exploring themes of survival, sacrifice, and rebellion. A must-watch for fans of dystopian tales and strong heroines!
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children
Dir: Tim Burton (2016)
Follow Jake as he discovers the magical and mysterious world of an orphanage with children with peculiar abilities. Directed by Tim Burton, this visually stunning film blends fantasy and adventure in a way only Burton can. Prepare to be enchanted by the peculiar and the extraordinary!
Twilight
Dir: Catherine Hardwicke (2008)
Follow Bella Swan, as she falls in love with the mysterious Edward Cullen, who happens to be a vampire. Directed by Catherine Hardwicke, this supernatural romance captivated audiences with its mix of love, danger, and the eternal struggle between vampires and werewolves. Immerse yourself in the allure of forbidden love and the magic of the Pacific Northwest!
Information Officer
Theme: Paint it RED
Cathie's Picks
Red Joan
Dir: Trevor Nunn (2018)
Based on the true story of Melita Norwood, who was exposed as a communist spy in the late 1990's.
The film is brimming with suspense. From a woman's perspective, it shows what it was like to live in post-war Britain.
A great film for those who like serious attempts to portray historical events in a fictionalised way.
The Battle of Red Cliff
Dir: John Woo (2008)
A battle epic as impressive if not more than Braveheart or Gladiator. Directed by action master John Woo it surpasses in terms of style, grace, action, and cinematography.
The Prime Minister of the Han Dynasty coaxes the Emperor to wage war against two kingdoms in order to unite China.
Red
Dir: Robert Schwentke (2010)
Ridiculous, entertaining and delightful. Stellar cast.
Based on a graphic novel by comic writer Warren Ellis.
An old CIA operative and his crew get together one last tie to fight for justice. Retired and Extremely Dangerous (RED). A film for anyone with a sense of humor.
Raise the Red Lantern
Dir: Yimou Zhang (1991)
The powerful and beautiful film depicts the sorrow of a young girl who on becoming a concubine finds there is no way out. A beautiful loo at he ways and cultures of the East.
Research Support Librarian
Theme: Sensational Seventies
Alison's Picks
Harold & Maude
Dir: Hal Ashby (1971)
I’ve chosen four of my favourite films from the 1970s. In the landscape of 1970s cinema, "Harold & Maude" emerged as a unique and influential film. Its unconventional love story challenged societal norms and embraced themes of nonconformity and individualism, resonating with audiences and influencing subsequent generations of filmmakers.
The Wicker Man
Dir: Robin Hardy (1973)
A cult classic of 1970s cinema, "The Wicker Man" left an unforgettable mark on the horror genre. Its atmospheric storytelling and eerie depiction of pagan rituals set against a backdrop of the Outer Hebrides (actually re-constructed from various small town locations around Scotland) captivated audiences, contributing to the era's fascination with psychological horror and occult themes.
Network
Dir: Sidney Lumet (1976)
"Network" shook the foundations of 1970s cinema with its biting satire and prophetic commentary on media manipulation and corporate greed. Its memorable monologues and incisive critique of the television industry struck a chord with audiences, cementing its status as a cultural landmark of the decade.
A Wedding
Dir: Robert Altman (1978)
Robert Altman's "A Wedding" stands as a hallmark of 1970s cinema, epitomizing the era's exploration of ensemble storytelling and social commentary. With its sprawling narrative and interconnected characters, the film reflects the complexities of human relationships and societal dynamics, solidifying its place in cinematic history.
Assistant Librarian
Theme: Overlooked Classics
Victoria's Picks
Orlando: A Biography
By: Virginia Woolf (1928)
Follow Orlando as they live over centuries. Exploring sense of self, gender, time, love, and so much more. A carriage ride of lush words and entrancing scenery.
And Then There Were None
By: Agatha Christie (1939)
One of the best and most haunting Agatha Christie books I’ve ever read. Its compelling mystery is a tough one to crack and makes you ask instead of who is it, who’s next? Very satisfying.
Perfume: The Story of a Murderer
By: Patrick Suskind (1985)
This short novel is strange, surprising, and the only one I’ve seen that focuses on the olfactory sense. I was gasping out loud, the end is particularly salacious.
Carmilla
By: J. Sheridan Le Fanu (1872)
Predating Dracula, this vampire novella follows Laura as she is seduced into friendship with the beautiful Carmilla. Steeped in romantic gothic and undead with tension.