The weather’s getting colder, and you might want to spend this weekend cosy with something new to watch or listen to. But where to start? That’s where Wayne Massingham has you covered with his weekly recommendations on film, music, and television!

Film: The Phoenician Scheme

The newest Wes Anderson film, keeping his traditional dollhouse style but with a more grimy aesthetic. The film follows a ruthless yet charismatic business tycoon (played by Benicio Del Toro) who appoints his only daughter – a nun (played by Mia Threapelton) – as the sole heir to his estate. This leads to a journey across multiple whimsical locations as the pair become targets of scheming tycoons, foreign terrorists and determined assassins.

The Phoenician Scheme is in cinemas now. Watch the trailer here

Television: The Perfect Couple

Based on the 2018 novel by Elin Hilderbrand, this mystery drama miniseries follows a couple (Eve Hewson & Billy Howle) about to be married in Nantucket, when their wedding is abruptly interrupted by a murder. The Netflix show also features Aussie Nicole Kidman as the mother of the groom, who although disproving of his marriage, spared no expense making the wedding extravagant

The Perfect Couple can be watched on Netflix here

Television: After the Party

This New Zealand drama follows a woman (Robyn Malcolm) who accuses her husband of child sexual assault against their daughter’s teenage friend. With details blurry and many drinks consumed, their friends believe that the accusation is false, but five years later, the husband returns to Wellington, leading to our protagonist having to make a difficult decision in relation to her accusation

After The Party can be watched on ABC IView here

Album: Ripped and Torn – Lifeguard

The debut album from this young Chicagoan trio featuring the drummer sibling of the singer of Horsegirl is hard edged with loud and abrasive sounds. Its reminicent of the London and 90s Matador scene, with production by No Age’s guitarist Randy Randall

Ripped and Torn can be listened to on Bandcamp here