September 2024 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
Theme: Recent Faves
Frazer's Picks
American Movie
Dir: Chris Smith (1999)
This complex, entertaining and singularly inspiring documentary follows the life of working-class Wisconsin independent filmmaker Mark Borchardt as he struggles to get his films made. The heart of the picture is Mike Schank (RIP), Mark’s loyal collaborator, and the kind of friend anyone is lucky to have.
Person to Person
Dir: Dustin Guy Defa (2017)
A wonderful portrait of a group of New Yorkers over the course of a day. Breezy, fun and surprising, with a standout performance from Bene Coopersmith as an effervescent music lover tracking down a rare vinyl record.
Vagabond
Dir: Agnes Varda (1985)
A tough, compelling story, told with Varda’s characteristic innovation and empathy. Sandrine Bonnaire is riveting as Mona, leading a cast of mostly non-professional actors.
Zatoichi
Author: Takeshi Kitano (2003)
An inspired re-imagining of the classic character Zatoichi, a blind swordsman who appeared in 26 films Japanese films between 1962-1989. Kitano wrote, directed and stars in this version, which blends his trademark deadpan comedy, melodrama and graphic violence with a more traditional pop cinema style.
Raquel
Engagement and Outreach Librarian
Theme: Off To See The Wizard
Raquel's Picks
Return to Oz
Dir: Walter Myrch (2085)
The first thing people say about this film is that “it’s scary”. Not a very original response if you ask me! Watching this on repeat as a kid, I never found it scary. I was fascinated it, and it’s still my ultimate comfort movie – even more so than The Wizard of Oz, which of course is blasphemy.
Under the Rainbow
Dir: Steve Rash (1981)
Yep I watched this even though I knew it’s be a stinker. But Carrie Fisher’s in it and anything she’s in is worth watching! It’s a madcap plot about hundreds of little people gathering at a hotel in Hollywood to audition for the roles of Munchkins in The Wizard of Oz. But other things happen too that involve Nazi spies and Chevy Chase. It’s all very confusing and annoying but I can barely remember a thing so I would watch it again.
The Munchkins of Oz
By: Stephen Cox (1996)
Trying my hardest to find a copy of this for myself on ebay and it’s not cheap. God bless the AFTRS Library for having the best collection of any library anywhere! This book makes me SO HAPPY!
Alison
Research Support Librarian
Theme: The Many Faces of Carey Mulligan
Alison's Picks
Drive
Dir: Nicolas Winding Refn (2011)
In this film, one finds a most thrilling tale, rich in atmosphere and suspense. Miss Carey Mulligan graces the screen as a gentle and resolute neighbour, whose quiet strength and tender heart provide a delicate counterbalance to the film's darker elements, much like a gentle heroine amidst a stormy world.
Promising Young Woman
Dir: Emerald Fennell (2020)
This film offers a tale both bold and unflinching, with Miss Mulligan portraying a young lady of singular resolve and purpose. Her performance is as powerful as it is complex, much like a heroine driven by a sense of justice, who, in seeking redress for wrongs, reveals the many shades of human nature.
Inside Llewyn Davis
Dir: Joel & Ethan Coen (2013)
This film presents a melancholic narrative, wherein the struggles of a musician are laid bare with a truth both poignant and severe. Miss Mulligan appears as a figure from the past, sharp in wit and conflicted in emotion, her presence adding a layer of complexity to the story, much like a sharp-tongued yet tender-hearted lady in a social entanglement.
Far from the Madding Crowd
Dir: Thomas Vinterberg (2015)
In this film, one is treated to a story of great emotional depth and picturesque beauty. Miss Carey Mulligan, in the role of a strong-willed heroine, navigates the trials of love and life with a grace and independence most becoming of a lady of such spirit and determination, reminiscent of a heroine who knows her own mind and heart.
Victoria
Assistant Librarian
Theme: Fabulous Women, and the Bodies They Left Behind
Victoria's Picks
Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries [Series 1]
Creator: Deb Cox & Fiona Eagger (2012)
Pearl-handled pistol, dagger sharp wit, and jazzy 1920’s Melbourne. Add in a body and you have a fun night out.
Chicago
Dir: Rob Marshall (2002)
Murderess Row never had so much glamour. Catchy music, awesome dancing, and the editing is superb. And yes, they both reached for the gun.
Jennifer’s Body
Dir: Karyn kusama (2009)
There’s nothing so strong as the power of friendship, well, maybe Jennifer’s desire to consume men’s flesh. After that trauma, girl’s gotta eat.
Killing Eve [Season 1]
Creator: Phoebe Waller-Bridge (2018)
She can’t stop chasing her, and she wants to be chased. Most people leave cute notes, Villanelle leaves high profile deaths. Elegant, bloody, and filled with intrigue.
Cathie
Information Officer
Theme: Historical Treasures
Cathie's Picks
No Country for Old Men
Dir: Ethan & Joel Coen (2007)
No Country for Old Men turns a simple drug deal gone wrong into a masterclass of suspense and dread. This film is a blend of thriller and philosophical musing.
Dangerous Liaisons
Creator: Stephen Frears (1988)
One of the original period dramas set in pre-revolutionary France. As a period piece it contains plenty of irony twists and turns. Big egos battling it out in a game of one-up-manship. On show is some of the hightened characterristics of human manipulartion and behaviour.
The King
Dir: David Michod (2019)
Entertaining and engrossing historical film. The King is an unusual cocktail combining bits from three of Shakespeare's plays, urban myths and genuine historical facts. Beautifully done, this film is dark, moody and gothic.
Snow Falling on Cedars
Dir: Scott Hicks (1999)
The tranquil village of fisherman and berry farmers is changed forever. One man lost his life, and another, a childhood friend has been charged with taking it. The cinematography is breathtaking. Intelligent, balanced and intriguing.
Hayley
Library & Information Services Manager
Theme: Sherlock Everywhere
Hayley's Picks
Sherlock [Series 1]
Creator: Mark Gatiss & Steven Moffat (2010)
A modern day retelling of Sherlock Holmes, where Sherlock is depicted as a "high-functioning sociopath". An entertaining watch, a must for all Sherlock Holmes fans, it will have you guessing until the end!
Sherlock Holmes
Creator: Guy Ritchie (2009)
A fun and entertaining reimaging of everyone's favourite detective Sherlock Holmes.
Enola Holmes
Creator: Harry Bradbeer (2020)
An adaptation of the Sherlock Holmes stories, that follows the adventure of his little sister who is trying to find her missing mother.
Mr Holmes
Dir: Bill Condon (2015)
What becomes of Sherlock Holmes once he retires from detective work...