October 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: In Absentia
Frazer's Picks
The Fly
Dir: David Cronenberg (1986)
"I first watched this as a teenager and have never been able to quite shake this movie. Its got it all: Sci-fi horror spectacle, humour, romance, romance and tradedy all driven by magnetic performances from Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis. A must see, and even if you have already, very rewatchable." (Frazer Bull-Clark, May 2023)
Black Hole
by: Charles Burns (2005)
"One hell of a spooky ride. Beautifully written and illustrated, this dark, surreal story of teenagers in suburban 1970s Seattle is a great Halloween read. A film adaptation has been rumoured for years, with names being tossed around. Really hope they don't screw ut up." (Frazer Bull-Clark, 2018).
Zodiac
Dir: David Fincher (2007)
"One of the all-time great procedurals. Hypnotic filmmaking that exposes an endless, existential search for meaning: sign me up." (Frazer Bull-Clark, April 2022).
Cure
Author: Kiyoshi Kurosawa (1997)
"Beautifully made and terrifying, this is a unique horror film. A much beloved cult classic, Bong Joon-Ho has named it one of his favourite films of all time. Check it out and let me know what you think." (Frazer Bull-Clark, 2019).
Raquel
Engagement and Outreach Librarian
Theme: Faded Glory
Raquel's Picks
I Capture the Castle
Dir: Dobie Smith (1948)
I’m only a third of the way through this book but by the time you read this I’ll sadly be finished. I just can’t put it down. The novel is in diary-form, narrated by 17-year-old Cassandra Mortmain who tells the story of her eccentric family, living in genteel poverty in a decaying castle during the 1930s. It’s such a cosy, delicious, charming book, best read in bed while eating honey toast and tea.
The Magnificent Ambersons
Dir: Orson Welles (1942)
Inspired by my current reading (I capture the castle by Dodie Smith) I’m continuing the theme of “wealthy families experiencing financial and social decline”. This very overlooked film (directed by Daddy Orson Welles!!) is a classic of the genre. You will want to beat your head against the wall at George Amberson’s bad behaviour and the ruinous effect it has on his family. I never thought I’d say this but I love period dramas!
Grey Gardens
Dir: Rebekah and Sara Maysles (2009)
I could’ve picked the film, but I’ve had it in my Staff Picks too many times... although... when it comes to this film, is there such a thing as “too many times”? This book by director David Maysles’ daughters Rebekah & Sara Maysles is one for the true completists. It includes a transcript from the sound recordings of the film and stills, displayed in a wonderful scrapbook-style collage.
The Royal Tenenbaums
By: Wes Anderson (2001)
A feelgood classic about a dysfunctional, eccentric, wealthy family of child prodigies in the winter of their (grown-up) discontent. Beautiful, funny, cosy, great soundtrack. It never gets old.
Alison
Research Support Librarian
Theme: For the 80's Kids
Alison's Picks
The Neverending Story
Dir: Wolfgana Petersen (1984)
Did you know? At the time of its release, this was the most expensive film produced outside the United States and the Soviet Union?
Who framed Roger Rabbit
Dir: Robert Zemeckis (1989)
Did you know? This movie is the first, and only, time cartoon characters from Disney and Warner Bros. have appeared together on screen.
The Goonies
Dir: Richard Donner (1985)
Did you know? The pirate ship was entirely real – all the shots were filmed in the ship. After the film, it was offered to anyone who would take it, but no-one wanted it, so it was scrapped.
Harry and the Hendersons
Dir: William Dear (1987)
Did you know? 7’2” actor Kevin Peter Hall who played the role of Harry, was also the Predator.
Victoria
Assistant Librarian
Theme: Supernatural Horror
Victoria's Picks
The VVitch
Creator: Roger Eggers (2015)
I don’t think I’ve ever watched any of this without pausing and walking away for a bit, because the suspense! Look, I’m a horror weakling, so if you’re like my sister and laughed at The Conjuring (you know, like a psychopath), then you might enjoy this tense watch.
Interview With the Vampire
Dir: Neil Jordan (1994)
This movie and the new TV show on ABC iView are both very good. Call me archaic but I like vampires who you’d rather kill than see sparkle. Bring on the blood!
Watch the 2022 TV Show
Beetlejuice
Dir: Tim Burton (1988)
This movie is a complete and utter acid trip. This is the movie you thought you’d dreamt and yet the nightmare exists, and there’s Michael Keaton. Love Tim Burton. Love this movie. “Would you love me if I was the sandworm from Beetlejuice?” That would be the true test.
Sleepy Hollow
Creator: Tim Burton (1999)
Ever had a bad hair day? This guy had a bad head day, meaning he lost it. I love Tim Burton. It’s got just the right level of creepy.
Cathie
Information Officer
Theme: Fashion Aficionados
Cathie's Picks
Phantom Thread
Dir: Paul Thomas Anderson (2017)
Phantom Thread is beautifully shot, rich with texture, deep colours and evocative of another era. It is a story of flawed but intense people, creative dedication and control. A captivating film. A deviantly strange twist on romance.
Valentino: The Last Emperor
Creator: Matt Tyrnauer (2008)
A look at the business of couture. We watch Valentino and partner Giancarlo preparing for the 2006 Collection to a retro-spective of Valentino's 45 year career. The film documents a year of work, business changes and decisions. The undertone is that changing world of fashion and what will become of fashion.
Coco Avant Chanel
Dir: Anne Fontaine (2009)
A beautiful protrayal of the charisma, rebelliousness and charm of Coco Chanel. Managing to be the centre of attention, she weaves an unparalleled legacy of class and fashion that is still revered and loved.
McQueen
Dir: Ian Bonhote (2018)
McQueen is a moving and emotional look at the works of Lee Alexander McQueen. The film reflects the 90's era of supermodels and big budgets. Its easy to see where some of Lady Gaga's inspiration came from. A homeage to a genius.
Hayley
Library & Information Services Manager
Theme: Round the Twist
Hayley's Picks
Arrival
Creator: Denis Villeneuve (2016)
A film about first alien contact with Earth, this thriller will have you intrigued throught out, though can be rather slow paced at times. Then just as you think you understood what is going on, the twist hits you out of nowhere!
Inception
Creator: Christopher Nolan (2010)
Need I even have to write anything, anything Christopher Nolen does is a must watch for me. His films always have an interesting sting at the end, and Inception is no differerent, you tell me how can we interpret that ending?
12 Monkeys
Creator: Terry Gilliam (1995)
While this film is not a favourite of mine, I had to include it on the twisty staff picks, as the ending is kinda a little devastating...
Primal Fear
Dir: Gregory Hoblit (1996)
Amazing performances from both Richard Gere and Edward Norton, and will have you questioning the truth and what you know to be true throughout the film and if the justice system actually works. So what is your opinion on the twist at the end?