Frosty Games Fest to showcase best of New Zealand, Australian games

Set your calendars for June 2025, because that's when a new festival will showcase the very best of both Australia and New Zealand's gaming community.

The Frosty Games Fest has been announced and is being supported by the Screen Australia's Games Event Fund.

The fest will be livestreamed during the Summer Games Fest.

More details below:

Frosty Games Fest, a showcase of upcoming and recently released video games made in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, will be presented online via livestream during the week of Summer Game Fest in June 2025. 

The showcase is supported by Screen Australia’s Games Event Fund, with a shared vision of promoting the culture and creativity in the medium of games, allowing developers to bring their brightest ideas into the world.

The event aims to give a platform to more ANZ-based developers during what has become a key global gaming calendar moment, while connecting players worldwide with the wide variety of incredible games made at the edge of the world. 

“It’s a difficult time to make games right now, and being at the bottom of the globe certainly doesn’t make things easier for ANZ-based devs,” says Amy Potter, event director, “we’re often under-represented on the global stage, and I think that’s criminal considering the outstanding quality of games that are produced in this part of the world!”

Screen Australia Head of Online and Games Lee Naimo said, “Frosty Games Fest represents a much needed opportunity for talented Australian gamemakers to showcase their incredible work to the world. Greater visibility for the unique and amazing games being developed here is only a benefit to the wider Australian games community, and we’re proud to support Frosty Games Fest making that possible.”

Behind Frosty Games Fest is a team of seasoned games professionals with a wealth of experience in helping ANZ game devs succeed, including Lucy Mutimer, Pritika Sachdev and Kieron Verbrugge. 

To stay up to date with when the showcase will air, sign up to the mailing list via the Frosty Games Fest website. The team have confirmed the show will premiere at a friendly time slot for viewers in Australia, New Zealand, and the west coast of the US. ANZ-based developers looking to showcase their games can find an expression of interest form on the Frosty Games Fest website, or reach out to the Frosty team via the contact form.

About Frosty Games Fest

Frosty Games Fest is a livestreamed showcase dedicated to ANZ video game developers and productions, highlighting upcoming and already-released titles. Frosty Games Fest was dreamt up by video games industry marketing professional, Amy Potter, and will make its debut in June 2025 thanks to support from Screen Australia’s Games Event Fund. For more information about Frosty Games Fest visit frostygamesfest.com

Stop Making Sense: Blu Ray Review

Director: Jonathan Demme

Nearly 40 years after its original release in 1984, Jonathan Demme's concert movie is often spoken about by many in breathless tones.

Shot at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre in 1983, the film follows the band as they play a range of hits culminating in the iconic performance of lead singer David Byrne dressed in an oversize grey suit.

Newly restored and newly remastered, the sensory overload builds in IMAX after it begins with Byrne solo on stage, gradually joined by members of the band for a series of performances. From the simplicity of opener Psycho Killer, Byrne (who resembles a young Cillian Murphy it has to be said here) to the blazing glory of Burning Down the House captivates from the beginning.

But Demme also focuses heavily on the rest of the band, as if implying the group is more than the sum of its parts. Certainly, while Byrne tries to distract with jerking spasms, and contrived over-movements, the temptation is there to focus on him and him alone - but what emerges is the team nature of this Talking Heads performance with bassist Tina Weymouth, drummer Chris Frantz and others all shining as it goes on.

There are a couple of moments when it feels like Byrne is out of focus, a fuzziness enveloping him during the act of live performance; moments that restoration can't really clean up - and perhaps shouldn't as it catches the verite of the live act.

This Must Be The Place segues beautifully into Once In a Lifetime, and Take Me To The River also stands out. Demme occasionally turns his attention to the audience, but the main focus lies solely with the performers themselves - until their final song sees the cameras swung around as they are caught dancing in the aisles and in their seats.

Perhaps most pertinent in this live performance - especially when the cameras swing round the audiences - is how little technology there is both on and off stage. Stripped of the camera phones that blight many live gigs these days, the film simply lets the music shine and it does so magnificently as the soul and downright funkiness of the whole affair rises triumphantly off the screen and into the audience.

Stop Making Sense will be essential viewing for Talking Heads fans; for those nonplussed or inured to their wiles, this will leave you tapping your toes and perhaps desiring to delve deeper into their back catalogue.

The Teachers' Lounge: DVD Review

A simple premise stretched as far as it dramatically can go, director Ilker Çatak's school-set drama is taut and nerve-jangling, in ways you would never generally expect.

Leonie Benesch plays new Polish teacher Ms Novak, who works in a German secondary school where an outbreak of petty theft has set nerves on edge. With students believed to be behind it, and even teachers seemingly helping themselves to the honesty box for coffee money, the school's on a knife edge.

When one child is blamed by a student's council tipoff, it appears that the culprit has been caught. However, as suspicions continue to grow, Novak finds herself trying to appease all sides as she tries to advocate for students and follow the rules.

Çatak's simple direction makes The Teachers' Lounge soar.

As the paranoia grows and one simple action has diabolical consequences, a slow gradual ratcheting up of tension and a smart restrained delivery makes the drama soar in ways that will grip audiences.

While the final moments perhaps possibly betray the drama's promise and feel a little like the movie has been left with nowhere to go, The Teachers' Lounge remains a crowdpleasing film whose psychological turns and twists are parlayed by a stunning lead and an awful gut-churning question of 'what would I do?' in a similar situation.

This film is playing as part of the 2024 Whanau Marama New Zealand International Film Festival. For more details, visit nziff.co.nz

The Last of Us Season 2 trailer

The first look at The Last of Us Season 2 has been revealed as part of the Last of Us day.

There's no date yet on when the show will air, other than 2025.

Watch The Last of Us Season 2 trailer below.

What's on Neon in October

Here's everything that's streaming on Neon in October.

The Franchise (October 7 from 6pm)

Created by Jon Brown, and executive produced by Brown, Armando Iannucci and Sam Mendes, The Franchise follows a crew of an unloved franchise movie as they fight for their place in a savage and unruly cinematic universe and shines a light on the secret chaos inside the world of superhero moviemaking – because every f*ck-up has an origin story.

Stars: Himesh Patel, Richard E. Grant, Daniel Brühl, Lolly Adefope, Jessica Hynes

Sweetpea (October 10 from 4pm)

Rhiannon Lewis doesn't make much of an impression. People walk past her without a second glance. But when she is pushed over the edge, the wallflower disappears and in its place is a young woman capable of anything, maybe even murder. A ‘coming of rage’ story… 

Stars: Ella Purnell (Yellowjackets, Fallout)

What We Do In The Shadows (October 23)

The final season of the spinoff from Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement's hit comedy movie.

Halloween horror movies

Immaculate (October 20)

An American nun joins a remote convent in the Italian countryside. But it soon becomes clear that her new home harbours dark and horrifying secrets.

Stars: Sydney Sweeney, Simona Tabasco, Álvaro Morte, Benedetta Porcaroli, Dora Romano, Giorgio Colangeli

The Piper (October 3)

A composer is tasked with finishing her late mentor's concerto. But she soon discovers that  playing the music comes with deadly consequences.

Stars: Charlotte Hope, Julian Sands, Kate Nichols, Alexis Rodney, Oliver Savell, Pippa Winslow, Boyan Anev

Force of Nature: The Dry 2:  Blu Ray Review

Cast: Eric Bana, Anna Torv, Deborra-Lee Furness, Sisi Stringer
Director: Robert Connolly

The Dry was a gripping thriller that introduced audiences to another detective – Eric Bana’s Aaron Falk.

But whereas the first film had a compelling grittiness that had you on the edge of your seat during its mysteries, Force of Nature: The Dry 2 makes things too convoluted as it tries to juggle three narrative threads with varying degrees of success.

A simple central mystery – five women go on a corporate bush retreat in Australia but only four of them emerge – should prove enough for Falk and his massively underutilised partner to tackle, but Connolly’s direction of Jane Harper’s book battles flashbacks, cold cases and a race against time in a choppy story that never quite digs its way in as the first did.

Despite Falk’s past connection to the region where the women emerged, the involvement of a serial killer story and elements of corporate espionage, there’s simultaneously too much to juggle and yet somehow too little to sink audiences’ teeth into.

It doesn’t help that all threads are underwhelmingly pulled together thanks to once-over-lightly sketched characters rather than rich deep personalities – all the women are able to do is essentially screech at each other as their more brittle edges come to the fore. 

Despite wonderfully utilising the surrounding countryside and bush to harbour some kind of atmosphere (as the oppressive heat did in the first film), Connolly's The Dry 2 fails to capitalise on the richness of what lies around, instead relying on tropes and stereotypes to piece it all together.

Some of that could well be due to the source material, and much like the first film, there’s a garbled mess of exposition, reveals and twists in the final moments of The Dry 2 which don’t help matters.

A stoic Bana gets rare moments to excel as the theme of his guilt comes to the fore - but even he feels muted as the last act race's to resolve all the elements plays out giving him flashes of anger, humanity and fallibility. The throwing in more twists than a badly plotted Poirot even culminates in a scene of gathering suspects together in an isolated lodge - for those seeking homage to the greats, it’s fine, but for others, it’s a reminder how The Dry 2 very rarely treads its own path.

The final result is muted and muddled, and really while it's solid watching that's executed in a workmanlike manner, the resounding feeling is Force of Nature: The Dry 2 is not a patch on the first film’s rich, haunting themes.

Megalopolis: Movie Review

Cast: Adam Driver, Nathalie Emmanuel, Giancarlo Esposito, Shia LaBeouf, Aubrey Plaza, Dustin Hoffman 
Director: Francis Ford Coppola

It's perhaps fitting that the setting of Francis Ford Coppola's passion project is set in the world of New Rome City (a city that looks suspiciously like New York).

With its Roman-named cast and a myriad of Shakespearean speeches tossed out against the backdrop of $120 million worth of financing, there's the same kind of folly that affected parts of the Roman empire under the watch of Nero.

Adam Driver is Caesar Catalina, an idealist who favours a future Utopia and who has pioneered a material that will shape it. But opposed to his ideas is the current Mayor of New Rome City, Cicero (Giancarlo Esposito) - and thrust in the middle of the conflict is his daughter Julia Cicero (a mesmerising Nathalie Emmanuel), who finds her loyalties tested - and her faith rattled.

Swirling around all of this are various subplot that never quite coalesce - a power-hungry reporter (Plaza, in campy, vampy mode): a sneering banker (Voight, channelling his infamous Anaconda-level acting), a troublemaking cousin (LaBeouf, watchable until he's not) - and a myriad of big name bit players.

When it works, Megalopolis is audacious.

A mantra runs through one section: "When we leap into the unknown, we prove that we are free", something that Coppola thrives by throughout. There are moments here when it's patently obvious the director is freewheeling with his actors, and to be frank, it's glorious to watch, to get simply carried away in the visuals of what's playing out.

But then there are many moments when much of Megalopolis feels like it's in desperate need of an expeditious edit or some kind of stronger adherence to some semblance of a plot. What story there is is light in extremis, relying on a MacGuffin, the principles of which are to be adhered to, but whose very existence is shrouded in too much mystery to feel like an importance.

A planned interactive moment with the audience is a nice touch, but its execution is fumbled, a brutally cut in scene that has little to no context to afford it resonance. 

Megalopolis is largely a muddled movie that feels like a folly writ large, and yet, it will be lauded for its existence. At its heart, it's a love story, plain and simple, a Romeo and Juliet tale writ on a larger canvas with tantalising hints of what it could be, and frustrated narratives which hold it back.

It will be debated, scorned, mocked and praised in equal measure - but in truth, it feels like a crushing disappointment that no one reined in its director and tightened the edges. While it cries out to be seen on the biggest screen possible, it does also require nerves of steel and patience to endure its pomposity.

Incredible, infuriating and occasionally inspiring, Megalopolis (aka Megaflopolis) does what all good cinema should - it provokes something. It's just that the something is question is quite potentially ennui among the excess. 

Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL: Review

Released by Logitech

Keyboards generally are much of a muchness.

They exist to do one job - work for typing and work for gaming, if you so desire. Logitech has long acknowledged the need for covering all the bases, with keyboards that do what you need but also achieve a little bit more - either in looks or in capability.

What impresses first and foremost with the G515 Lightspeed TKL is how sleek it looks.

From its simple white colorway design to a lack of a numberpad, there's a definite push from Logitech here to provide the basics and to provide them well. While the numberpad issue takes a little getting used to given the spacing of any normal keyboard you'd have, the keyboard's versatility and ease of use more than make up for any issues your brain may have with spacing.

Its tenkeyless design may make it more compact and its minimum height may make it seem like it's less, but in truth, when it's connected, the G515 Lightspeed TKL does exactly what you'd need it to - and does it relatively well too.

Lightning quick Bluetooth connectivity makes it easy to use within seconds. Pairing with a laptop to avoid using the laptop keypad is easy - a simple search and connection then it's good to go. 

What's intriguing about the keyboard design is how it pulses as the RBG patterns cycle through and how light the keys have to be touched to perform. (The WASD keys are the ones which are most well-lit, and which usually light up with red, given how often they are part of the gaming world.) 

There's a little bit of a clacking from the keyboard as you work it through its paces, but in truth, not much pressure is needed to achieve effective results, something which can't really be overlooked in tech like this.

With what seems like endless battery power for the basics (in truth, it's not, but it does work for a fairly long time to do what you need), the key takeaway from the Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL is more that it does what it needs to without you even really noticing what's not working.

It's not a light keyboard by any stretch, weighing in at around 880g, but unless you're into consistently carrying around a keyboard, that won't really matter much. (Though it would be nice to have some kind of cover case included in a package like this - with the prices that keyboards cost, the accessories can also bump up the pricing).

For those looking for gaming, with the use of the G-Hub from Logitech, there are plenty of options for remapping keys, and doing so effectively for your gaming. While the keyboard easily pairs with mouse options, perhaps the use of the Logitech's own mouse collection is to be recommended. 

When it comes down to it, for a lower price, the Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL does what you'd need it to - longterm, it feels sturdy enough to survive daily and nightly use. But given how it effectively does what it's needed, it's more than likely to become a staple of anyone who has to use a keyboard, and a smart choice for those looking for minimal design to avoid a feeling of clutter.

What's on Disney+ in October

Here's everything streaming on Disney+ in October.

2 October

Last Days of the Space Age - Disney+ Original Series Premiere

It's the end of an era, and everything is about to change. A global beauty pageant is converging on a small town, and for three families, the drama unfolding on the world stage is nothing compared to what they’re going through. Tony and Judy are married and sit on opposite sides of an ugly power strike. Their youngest daughter Mia is going off the rails, while their eldest, Tilly, has her head in the stars. The Biu family grapple with the fate of their son, whose life hangs in the balance. For the Wilberforces, the threat of prejudice proves the flashpoint for monumental change. And Tony’s brother Mick forges an alliance with the USSR pageant contestant, not to mention her KGB minder. The stage is set for a moment in history which will push these families past their limits.

3 October

Hold Your Breath

Star Original Movie Premiere

Oklahoma, 1930s. The Bellum family house rests in a valley of dirt as clouds of dust blot out the sun. Margaret (Sarah Paulson) and her two daughters, Rose (Amiah Miller) and Ollie (Alona Jane Robbins), tend to their sparse farm while Margaret’s husband has left in pursuit of work. As they struggle to survive the punishing Dust Bowl environment, a mysterious stranger (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) arrives, threatening all they know and love. But is the threat a closer one?

25 October

Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band

Star Original Premiere

Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band offer the most in-depth look ever at the creation of their legendary live performances, including footage of band rehearsals, backstage moments, rare archival clips and personal reflections from Springsteen himself.

18 October

Rivals - Star Original Series Premiere

Set against the backdrop of power-grabbing social elites, "Rivals" dives headfirst into the ruthless world of independent television in 1986. Based on the celebrated novel by Jilly Cooper, "Rivals" follows ex-Olympian and incorrigible rake, Rupert Campbell-Black, in his long-standing feud with thecontroller of Corinium Television, Tony Baddingham. Loyalties are tested as the two enter a bidding war for TV rights with host Declan O’Hara who is caught in the crossfire. Takeover plans are disrupted by a blossoming romance between the womanizing Rupert and Declan’s daughter, Taggie O’Hara, creating a love triangle with Tony’s right-hand woman, the brilliant American producer Cameron Cook. In the backstabbing world of TV where it is every man and woman for themselves, can true love really blossom?

30 October

Wizards Beyond Waverly Place

Disney+ Original Series Premiere

Billie, a powerful young wizard, is sent to live in the mortal world with the only wizard teacher who can help her control her powers—Justin Russo.

Also in October…

2 October

Series

Me & Mickey: Season 3

4 October

Series

Mickey's Spooky Stories

Special

Incredible Dr Pol: The Grand Finale

Movies (ESPN 30 for 30 Films)

Free Spirits

The Gospel According to Mac

The Infinite Race

Kings Ransom

Playing for the Mob

Trojan War

Youngstown Boys

5 October

Star Original 

Bleach: Thousand Year Blood War: Season 3

7 October

Star Original

Solar Opposites Halloween Special 2, The Hunt for Brown October: Season 5

9 October

Star Original

La Máquina

Series

FX's American Horror Story: Delicate (Installment 12, Part 1)

11 October

Star Original

Mr. Crocket

International

Return to Las Sabinas

Movies

Expedition Amazon

12 October

Star Original

International

Jeongnyeon: The Star is Born

16 October

Star Original

Nemesis

Series

World Eats Bread

18 October

Disney+ Original

LEGO Marvel Avengers: Mission Demolition

Star Original

Fanatical: The Catfishing of Tegan and Sara

Movies

The Devil's Climb

21 October

Star Original

Carved

23 October

Star Original

International

Children are Kings

International

Selenkay: Season 2

25 October

Star Original

International

This is Not Hollywood- Avetrana

30 October

Star Original

Scamanda

Series

Witches: Truth Behind the Trials

New Episodes

Marvel Television's Agatha All Along New episodes weekly on Thursdays, finale 31 October

Only Murders in the Building: Season 4 New episodes weekly on Tuesdays

FX's Grotesquerie New episodes weekly on Thursdays, finale 31 October

FX's American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez New episodes weekly on Wednesdays

FX's The Old Man: Season 2 New episodes weekly on Fridays, finale 25 October

Grey's Anatomy: Season 21 New episodes weekly on Saturdays

Tell Me Lies: Season 2 New episodes weekly on Wednesdays, finale 16 October

Doctor Odyssey New episodes weekly on Saturdays

FX's Social Studies New episodes weekly on Saturdays, finale 19 October

FX's English Teacher New episodes weekly on Tuesdays, finale 15 October

Reasonable Doubt: Season 2 New episodes weekly on Thursdays

Seoul Busters 2 x new episodes weekly on Wednesdays

Mickey Mouse Funhouse: Season 3 5 x new episodes 9 October

Minnie's Bow-Toons: Camp Minnie 6 x new episodes 9 October

Murai in Love New episodes weekly on Wednesdays

Firebuds: Season 2 5 x new episodes 16 October

Dino Ranch: Season 3 5 x new episodes 9 October

Marvel's Spidey and his Amazing Friends: Season 3 New episodes on 9 October and 23 October

SuperKitties: Season 2 4 x new episodes 23 October

The Judge from Hell 2 x new episodes weekly on Saturdays and Sundays

What's on Shudder in October

Here's everything that's streaming in October.

NEW ADDITIONS TO SHUDDER’S FILM LIBRARY 

V/H/S/Beyond – Shudder Original Film 

Streaming Exclusively on Shudder and AMC+ Friday 4 October 

The popular film anthology will feature six new bloodcurdling tapes, placing horror at the forefront of a sci-fi-inspired hellscape. 

Segments include: 

“Stork”: Directed by Jordan Downey, screenplay by Downey and Kevin Stewart 

“Fur Babies”: Written and directed by Christian Long and Justin Long  

“Live and Let Dive”: Directed by Justin Martinez, story by Martinez and Ben Turner, screenplay by Turner “Dream Girl”: Directed by Virat Pal, written by Pal and Evan Dickson 

“Stowaway”: Directed by Kate Siegel, written by Mike Flanagan 

And a special presentation by Jay Cheel. 

Daddy’s Head – Shudder Original Film 

Film Premieres Exclusively on Shudder and AMC+ Friday 11 October 

In the wake of his father’s untimely death, a young boy is left in the eerie solitude of a sprawling country estate with his newly widowed stepmother. His stepmother, struggling to navigate the overwhelming task of parenthood, grows distant, leaving their fragile bond at  risk of collapse. Amidst the growing tension, the boy begins to hear unsettling sounds echoing through the corridors. Soon, he is haunted by the presence of a grotesque creature bearing a disturbingly familiar  resemblance to his late father. But as the boy’s warnings are dismissed as the imagination of a grieving  child, the sinister entity tightens its grip on their crumbling lives. 

MadS – Shudder Original Film 

Film Premieres Exclusively on Shudder and AMC+ Friday 18 October 

Eighteen-year-old Romain has just graduated and makes a stop at his dealer’s place to try a new pill. As he heads off to a party, he sees an injured woman on the side of the road and decides to help her, but when she gets in his car, she suddenly smashes her own head against the dashboard, bleeding out until she dies. Is this a bad trip? Or is it something else? One thing is for sure, it’s  only the beginning of the night. 

Azrael – Shudder Original Film 

Film Premieres Exclusively on Shudder and AMC+ Friday 25 October 

In a world in which no one speaks, a mysterious, devout community hunts down a young woman named Azrael who has escaped their imprisonment. Recaptured by its ruthless leaders, she is to be sacrificed to pacify an evil which resides deep within the surrounding wilderness – but Azrael will stop at nothing to ensure her own freedom and survival. From the seeds of this gritty, relentless parable of sacrifice and salvation, comes an immersive, real-time, action horror tale from the visionary  minds of Simon Barrett and E.L. Katz and starring Samara Weaving. 

The Exorcism – Shudder Exclusive Film 

Film Premieres Exclusively on Shudder and AMC+ Wednesday 30 October 

Academy Award-winner Russell Crowe stars as Anthony Miller, a troubled actor who begins to unravel while shooting a supernatural horror film. His estranged daughter, Lee (Ryan Simpkins), wonders if he's slipping back into his past addictions or if there's something more sinister at play. The film also stars Sam Worthington, Chloe Bailey, Adam Goldberg, and David Hyde Pierce. 

The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula – Shudder Original Series 

Series Premieres Exclusively on Shudder and AMC+ Tuesday 1 October 

Dubbed “Season 666,” the next chapter of Emmy nominated The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula is the most ambitious and terrifying yet, with world-renowned actors and directors joining the judges' panel, raising the stakes to hellish new heights. Every episode promises  spine-chilling, extreme physical feats that will push the cast of drag superstars to confront their darkest  fears. This 10-episode season is bigger, bloodier, and more brutal than anything that’s come before,  featuring expanded “on location” challenges, twisted new themes for the floorshows, cinematic sequences  dripping with dread, and innovative drag that will leave viewers gasping.

2024 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards – Shudder  

Exclusive 

Special Premieres Exclusively on Shudder and AMC+ Monday 14 October 

The annual award ceremony recognises outstanding achievements in horror film and television. For the fourth year in a row, the event will be hosted by actor and writer David Dastmalchian (Late Night with the Devil, and Lead Performance nominee). This year’s presenters include Skeet Ulrich (Scream, Riverdale), Madeleine  McGraw (The Black Phone), Dewayne Perkins (The Blackening, and Best Supporting Performance  nominee), and Lauren LaVera (the upcoming Terrifier 3). 

Hush 

Film Premieres on Shudder and AMC+ Tuesday 1 October 

A deaf and mute writer who retreated into the woods to live a solitary life must fight for her life in silence when a masked killer appears at her window.  

The Houses October Built (2011) 

Film Premieres on Shudder and AMC+ Tuesday 1 October 

Looking for a good fright for Halloween, five friends set off on a road trip to discover the scariest underground haunts. As their trip appears to reach a dead-end, whispers of a haunt like no other draws them to the darkest corners of haunted attractions. The original, unreleased 2011 haunted house documentary that went on to inspire the cult theatrical release of the same name. THE HOUSES OCTOBER BUILT – ORIGINAL VERSION goes deeper behind the scenes of extreme Halloween haunted attractions, introducing an entirely new narrative and unexpected conclusion.  

WNUF Halloween Special 

Film Premieres on Shudder and AMC+ Tuesday 1 October 

A horror comedy with fake news and a commercial section that was filmed on old video cameras to make it look like a real VHS recording of a commercial television station’s Halloween special from 1987. 

Possessor 

Film Premieres on Shudder and AMC+ Monday 21 October 

An agent works for a secretive organisation that uses brain implant technology to inhabit other people’s bodies ultimately driving them to commit assassinations for high paying clients. 

What's on DocPlay in October

Here's what's streaming on DocPlay in October.

Fast-tracked from the US, DocPlay Exclusive #Untruth: The Psychology of Trumpism examines the sinister psychology of Trumpism. From Academy Award-winning director Ron Howard, The Beatles: Eight Days a Week examines the early years of the band, spanning from club dates to global tours.

For history buffs, six-part series How the Nazis Lost the War uncovers the downfall of Hitler’s empire; while Paris 1924: An Olympic Epic offers a little-seen documentation of the first Olympics shot on film. Starring Saltburn star Barry Keoghan, American Animals is the entertaining true story of four friends who brazenly attempt to execute one of the most audacious art heists in US history.

#Untruth: The Psychology of Trumpism  |  1 Oct  |  DocPlay Exclusive

The brand new film from director Dan Partland (#Unfit: The Psychology of Donald Trump), #Untruth examines the psychology of ‘Trumpism’ and the authoritarian strain that it seeded in the American political landscape. A must-watch leading into this year’s US Election.

Paris 1924: An Olympic Epic  |  3 Oct

The first ever Olympics to be shot on film, the 1924 Olympic Games emerged as a pivotal moment in the post-World War I era – a historic celebration of peace, unity, and the enduring spirit of the Olympic Games.

How the Nazis Lost the War  |  3 Oct  |  Series

This engrossing six-part series delves into the downfall of Hitler’s empire, which cut cut a swathe through Europe and North Africa, and threatened Russia. Early in the War, Hitler's dream of dominating Europe was a distinct possibility, but then cracks appeared.

The Beatles: Eight Days a Week  |  10 Oct

Director Ron Howard (A Beautiful Mind) examines the early years of the Beatles, from their club dates in Liverpool, England, to their concert tours in Europe and the rest of the world.

Ms. Information  |  17 Oct  |  NZ documentary

We meet Dr. Siouxsie Wiles before the world changes; a non-conforming pink-haired scientist whose unique skill at communicating life-saving science catapults her into the limelight when Covid hits New Zealand.

K’ Road Chronicles  |  17 Oct  |  NZ documentary  |  Series

Six's unique perspective stems from her own lived experience of homelessness on Auckland's iconic Karangahape Road, as well as her daily interactions with the vibrant characters, homeless individuals, social workers, and others within this community through her street publication, the K’ Road Chronicle.

Represent  |  21 Oct

In the heart of the American Midwest, three women take on entrenched political systems in their fight to reshape local politics on their own terms.

American Animals  |  24 Oct

From director Bart Layton (The Imposter), and starring Barry Keoghan (Saltburn), and Ann Dowd (The Handmaid’s Tale) comes the extraordinary and thrilling true story of four friends living an ordinary existence who brazenly attempt to execute one of the most audacious art heists in US history.

Collingwood: Take the Steps  |  28 Oct

Take the Steps gives viewers unprecedented access inside the Collingwood Football Club as they attempt to lead their team to a record-equaling sixteenth premiership.

Warhammer 40,000 Space Marine 2: PS5 Review

Developed by Saber Interactive
Published by Focus Entertainment
Platform: PS5

Hack and slash games rarely come in a more camp package than Warhammer 40,000 Space Marine 2.

You're in charge of Titus, a big brute of a Space Marine, whose mission is to rid the galaxy of the Tyranids, a race of lizard-like creatures invading and generally causing chaos.

Your help in achieving this task is largely a chainsword that hacks its victims into pieces, and slices and dices where needed. There are also guns to pick up throughout as well, but in truth, nothing is simpler than cutting up your opponents into small pieces.

The thing with Warhammer 40,000 Space Marine 2 is no matter how pompous the opening narrative is, and no matter how seriously the game seems to take itself throughout, it has a very simple MO - to entertain and simply do what it needs to.

Largely, it does so, thanks to its blend of melee conflict and gunplay. There are some particularly cool gameplay tricks on offer - including a chance to hack an enemy first, throw them back and finish them off with a shot from your gun.

It's moments like this where Warhammer 40,000 Space Marine 2 really does come alive as a shooter and slasher, where it stops its seriousness and simply gets on with the business at hand. Sure the story's a little shallow and the dialogue a touch on the bland side, but once you get past that, the game offers just simple fun, and mechanics to achieve that level of joy.

But while the offline game is solid enough, there's a bit more joy to be had with friends squadding up for various levels of multiplayer. Though without friends, the multiplayer is an AI-soulless experience, that still offers the basics of the game, but none of the camaraderie and fun.

Ultimately Warhammer 40,000 Space Marine 2 does exactly what you'd expect. While it's probably fair to say you'd get more of the depth if you're a Warhammer player, the lack of too much lore makes it just about accessible - and enjoyable - enough to non-players.

IF: Blu Ray Review

Cast: John Krasinski, Ryan Reynolds, Cailey Fleming, Steve Carell, Phoebe Waller-Bridge
Director: John Krasinski

Undoubtedly whimsical and almost a touch too saccharine for its own good, A Quiet Place's John Krasinski's latest is an ode to memory and the power of imagination.

Focussing on The Walking Dead's Cailey Fleming's Bea, it's the story of a family torn apart by tragedy as Bea's father has to go into hospital for a broken heart, not long after the death of her mother from cancer. Placed with her grandmother (Fiona Shaw), Bea befriends Ryan Reynold's Cal who lives upstairs and who shares his apartment with a group of Imaginary Friends, chiefly Steve Carell's Blue and Waller-Bridge's Blossom.

After being urged by her father to tell her story, Bea begins an adventure of her own with Cal and the Friends.

Chiefly aimed at the family audience, Krasinski's IF veers dangerously close to cloying early on with an overload of whimsy that threatens to topple proceedings in a sentimental slop. With narrative elements that don't make sense, character actions that seem at best wildly off, an obvious twist and an overly OTT twinkling score from Michael Giacchino, IF's heart comes through when cynicism and modern day sensibilities threaten to derail it all.

With some wondrous visuals and touches that recall Pixar moments as well as Hollywood's golden age, it's almost as if Krasinski is channeling his inner child with recollections of yesteryears from Tinseltown. There's nothing wildly original on show here, but thanks to an earnestness of direction, this reeks of Amblin-level Spielberg as it angles for the family audience.

Packed with an almost incredible level of actor cameos and a raft of characters that will tickle all imaginations, If's power lies in its visual inventiveness above all else. (Expect either a series of prequel shorts or Monsters University-style spinoffs soon.) A sequence set inside a retirement home for former Imaginary Friends comes alive with a little imagination and a series of visual flourishes that sparkle.

But too often, the film relies on its own twee-ness and mawkishness to sell proceedings - there's a darker film here that explores trauma and loss, but it's not a film Krasinski wants to explore or expose.

That's fine - as a rebuttal to cynicism and an ode to the power of memory, this aimed-at-family film works its audience well. Perhaps some of the older end of the audience may be resistant to its powers of persuasion - but much like the central message of the film itself, If is more interested in reminding you of the power of imagination and pure unbridled joy.

What's on Prime Video in October

Here's everything that's streaming on Prime Video in October.

It’s October and there’s a new boss in town. The Office, starring Felicity Ward, Edith Poor and Steen Raskopoulos, follows managing director Hannah Howard as she fights to keep her “work family” together in the face of a pending remote work order. The only problem is, Hannah might be making promises she can’t keep…

The tide of darkness is rising in The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power S2 finale. As friendships are strained and kingdoms begin to fracture, the forces of good will struggle ever more valiantly to hold on to what matters to them most of all: each other.

Milan, 2030: Eight years ago, the independent global spy agency Citadel was destroyed by the powerful enemy syndicate, Manticore. Citadel: Diana finds undercover agent, Diana Davlieri, trapped behind enemy lines in Manticore and follows her attempts at escape.

Enjoy some real tennis with Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers, experience mouth-watering thrills with House of Spoils starring Ariana DeBose, and get ready for the exciting battles The Legend of Vox Machina.

 For all this and more, please find highlights for October below.

THE OFFICE

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY FROM FRIDAY 18 OCTOBER

In The Office, Hannah Howard is the managing director of packaging company Flinley Craddick. When she gets news from Head Office that they will be shutting down her branch and making everyone work from home, she goes into survival mode, making promises she can’t keep in order to keep her “work family” together. The staff of Flinley Craddick indulge her and must endure Hannah’s outlandish plots as they work toward the impossible targets that have been set for them.

The Office stars Felicity Ward, Edith Poor, Steen Raskopoulos, Josh Thomson, Shari Sebbens, Kieran Egan, Jack Dutson, Cassie McInnes, and Zoe Terakes. 

THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE RINGS OF POWER S2

SEASON 2 FINALE AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY FROM THURSDAY 3 OCTOBER

Building on Season One’s epic scope and ambition, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power S2 plunges even its most beloved and vulnerable characters into a rising tide of darkness, challenging each to find their place in a world that is increasingly on the brink of calamity. Elves and dwarves, orcs and men, wizards and Harfoots… as friendships are strained and kingdoms begin to fracture, the forces of good will struggle ever more valiantly to hold on to what matters to them most of all… each other.

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power stars Charlie Vickers, Tyroe Muhafidin, Markella Kavenagh, Morfydd Clark, Robert Aramayo, Charles Edwards, Daniel Weyman, Megan Richards, Ismael Cruz Cordova, and Robert Strange. 

LIONESS

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY FROM MONDAY 28 OCTOBER

As the CIA’s fight against terror moves closer to home, Joe (Saldaña), Kaitlyn (Kidman), and Byron (Kelly) enlist a new Lioness operative to infiltrate a previously unknown threat. With pressure mounting from all sides, Joe is forced to confront the profound personal sacrifices she has made as the leader of the Lioness program. 

From Oscar nominee Taylor Sheridan, Lioness features a star-studded cast including series lead Zoe Saldaña, Laysla De Oliveira, Genesis Rodriguez and Emmy Award nominee Michael Kelly, with Oscar winner Morgan Freeman, and Oscar and Emmy winner and executive producer Nicole Kidman. The series also stars Dave Annable, Jill Wagner, LaMonica Garrett, James Jordan, Austin Hébert, Jonah Wharton, Thad Luckinbill and Hannah Love Lanier.

CHALLENGERS

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY FROM TUESDAY 1 OCTOBER 

From visionary filmmaker Luca Guadagnino, Challengers follows Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy turned coach and a force of nature who makes no apologies for her game on and off the court. Married to a champion on a losing streak, Tashi’s strategy for her husband’s redemption takes a surprising turn when he must face off against the washed-up Patrick – his former best friend and Tashi’s former boyfriend. As their pasts and presents collide, and tensions run high, Tashi must ask herself, what will it cost to win.

Challengers stars Zendaya, Mike Faist and Josh O’Connor. 

CITADEL: DIANA

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY FROM THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER

Milan, 2030: Eight years ago, the independent global spy agency Citadel was destroyed by the powerful enemy syndicate, Manticore. Since then, Diana Cavalieri, an undercover Citadel agent, is alone, trapped behind enemy lines as a mole in Manticore. When she finally sees a way out and the chance to disappear forever, the only way to do so is trusting the most unexpected ally, Edo Zani, the heir of Manticore Italy and son of the head of the Italian organisation, Ettore Zani, who’s vying for leadership against the other European families.

Citadel: Diana stars Matilda De Angelis, Lorenzo Cervasio, Maurizio Lombardi, Julia Piaton, Thekla Reuten, Daniele Paoloni, and Filippo Nigro.

CANARY BLACK

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY FROM THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER

A top CIA operative, Avery Graves, is blackmailed by terrorists into betraying her own country to save her kidnapped husband. Cut off from her team, she turns to her underworld contacts to survive and help locate the coveted intelligence that the kidnappers want. Betrayed at every turn, she must rely on her cutting-edge training and primitive fighting skills in a deadly race to deliver a ransom that could trigger a global crisis.

Canary Black stars Kate Beckinsale, Saffron Burrows, Rupert Friend, Jaz Hutchins, Goran Kostic, Ben Miles.

THE LEGEND OF VOX MACHINA

SEASON 3 [DUB] AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY FROM THURSDAY 3 OCTOBER

Everything is at stake in the long-awaited Season Three of The Legend of Vox Machina. The Chroma Conclave’s path of destruction spreads like wildfire while the Cinder King hunts down Vox Machina. Our lovable band of misfits must rise above inner (and outer) demons to try and save their loved ones, Tal’Dorei, and all of Exandria.

The Legend of Vox Machina stars the voices of Laura Bailey, Taliesin Jaffe, Ashley Johnson, Matthew Mercer, Liam O’Brien, Marisha Ray, Sam Riegel and Travis Willingham.

HOUSE OF SPOILS

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY FROM THURSDAY 3 OCTOBER

House of Spoils follows an ambitious chef (Ariana DeBose) who opens her first restaurant—a farm-to-table affair on a remote estate—where she battles kitchen chaos, a dubious investor, crushing self doubts… and the powerful spirit of the estate’s previous owner who threatens to sabotage her at every turn. House of Spoils is a tense, psychological and sensuous thriller that will leave hearts pounding and mouth watering.

House of Spoils stars Ariana DeBose, Barbie Ferreira, Arian Moayed, Amara Karan, Mikkel Bratt Silset and Marton Csokas.

OCTOBER 2024 TOP PICKS:

CHALLENGERS (MOVIE) 01/10/24

THE MUMMY ('17) (MOVIE) 1/10/2024

LEGALLY BLONDE (MOVIE) 1/10/2024

THE AMITYVILLE HORROR (MOVIE) 1/10/2024

THE ADDAMS FAMILY (2019)  (MOVIE) 1/10/2024

SHERLOCK GNOMES (MOVIE) 01/10/24

LEGEND OF VOX MACHINA S3 (TV) 03/10/24

HOUSE OF SPOILS (MOVIE) 03/10/24

EL DIARIO (MOVIE) 04/10/24

THE TRIBE S1 (TV) 04/10/24

A SIMPLE FAVOUR (MOVIE) 06/10/24

MIDDLE SCHOOL: THE WORST YEARS OF MY LIFE (MOVIE) 08/10/24

DEATH NOTE S1 (TV) 09/10/24

CITADEL: DIANA S1 (TV) 10/10/24

WILD CARD (MOVIE) 15/10/24

ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A CELEBRITY S1 (TV) 16/10/24

BROTHERS (MOVIE) 17/10/24

LOVE STUCK  (MOVIE) 17/10/2024

THE OFFICE S1 (TV) 18/10/24

BLUE CAVE (MOVIE) 18/10/2024

THE DEVIL'S HOUR S2 (TV) 19/10/24

DARKNESS OF MAN (MOVE) 19/10/2024

THE SILENT HOUR (MOVIE) 22/20/24

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS (MOVIE) 22/10/2024

CANARY BLACK (MOVIE) 24/10/24

LIONESS (TV) 28/10/24

MEGAN THEE STALLION: IN HER WORDS (MOVIE) 31/10/2024

Win a double pass to see Smile 2 in cinemas

To celebrate the release of Smile 2 in cinemas October 17, thanks to Paramount Pictures NZ, you can win a double pass!

About Smile 2

About to embark on a new world tour, global pop sensation Skye Riley (Naomi Scott) begins experiencing increasingly terrifying and inexplicable events.

Overwhelmed by the escalating horrors and the pressures of fame, Skye is forced to face her dark past to regain control of her life before it spirals out of control.

Smile 2 is in cinemas October 17

Win a double pass to see Transformers One in cinemas

To celebrate the release of Transformers One in cinemas September 26, thanks to Paramount Pictures NZ, you can win a double pass!

About Transformers One

TRANSFORMERS ONE is the untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, better known as sworn enemies, but once were friends bonded like brothers who changed the fate of Cybertron forever. 

In the first-ever fully CG-animated Transformers movie, TRANSFORMERS ONE features a star-studded voice cast, including Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson, Keegan-Michael Key, Steve Buscemi, with Laurence Fishburne, and Jon Hamm.

Transformers One in cinemas September 26

Logitech launches next generation of Pro Series Mice, new keyboard

LOGITECH G LAUNCHES THE NEXT GENERATION OF PRO SERIES MICE AND KEYBOARD DESIGNED WITH AND FOR THE WORLD'S BEST ESPORTS ATHLETES

New PRO Series Gear features two new mice, the PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX and PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED, along with a new keyboard, the PRO X TKL RAPID 

Logitech G, announced at Logi PLAY the launch of its latest PRO Series gear, designed to meet the demands of elite esports athletes and competitive gamers. The new lineup includes the PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX Gaming Mouse, the PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED Gaming Mouse, and the PRO X TKL RAPID Gaming Keyboard.

“We pour a lot into our PRO series products, focusing on innovations that deliver immediate performance gains by forming deep partnerships with pros to meet their exacting needs. This research and design practice not only allows us to identify and create product breakthroughs but also serves as a performance test bed that ultimately serves the entire gaming community,” said Chris Pate, Head of PRO Series Product Development at Logitech G.  “With our new PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX, our new ambidextrous PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED, and our first magnetic analog rapid trigger keyboard, the PRO X TKL RAPID, we’re meeting gamers’ needs for the highest performance gear possible”

Over the past three years, Logitech G has worked with hundreds of professional esports athletes to create the next generation of PRO Series gear. These new products, combined with the current line-up of PRO Series gear, offer players the shape, playstyle, and functionality choices they need to find the best fit for them. Players can also feel confident that as a PRO Series product, each guarantees the highest level of performance across mice and keyboards. The newest additions to the PRO Series include:

PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX: The Asymmetrical Gaming Sharpshooter 

The Logitech G PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX is the cornerstone of our new releases, featuring a brand-new, asymmetrical, right-handed design developed with feedback from professional gamers in titles like Counter-Strike and Valorant. This mouse is not just about ergonomics; it’s a technological powerhouse.

• LIGHTSPEED Wireless Technology: Upgraded to support 8KHz polling, delivering ultra-fast and responsive performance.

• HERO 2 Sensor: Re-engineered from the ground up to help achieve 8kHz polling, this sensor now offers unmatched tracking performance with speeds over 888 inches per second and acceleration over 88G.

• LIGHTFORCE Switches: Combines optical sensing for instant actuation and reliability with a mechanical component for a satisfying click and low power consumption.

• Sustainability: Manufactured with up to 55% post-consumer recycled ABS plastic, significantly reducing its carbon impact.

DEX is a specialised right-handed tool that many pro players have asked us to add to the PRO Series portfolio. As with our PRO Series gear, DEX has been a multi-year development cycle, working with hundreds of elite esports athletes to meet their specific needs.

“The PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX feels like an extension of my hand, and that kind of comfort is crucial in high-stakes matches,” said Nikola “NiKo” Kovač, G2 Esports, Counter-Strike 2. “DEX delivers on the quality, precision, and speed that I told Logitech I need to win.”

PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED: An Upgrade to the Iconic PRO Wireless

In addition to launching a brand new right-handed PRO gaming mouse, we have taken the opportunity to launch the Logitech G PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED. The new PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED takes the original ambidextrous design of the PRO Wireless gaming mouse to the next level with state-of-the-art components and performance enhancements. This is an evolution of an esports icon featuring the latest LIGHTSPEED and HERO 2 updates.

“If you are a fan of ambidextrous mice, the G PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED is definitely the one I recommend!” said Evan “evv” De Couto, FlyQuest RED, Valorant. “It's such a fast and responsive mouse, and its shape is effortless to hold, which makes adjusting to your targets more precise and simple.”

PRO X TKL RAPID: The First Pro Grade Rapid Trigger Keyboard

The PRO X TKL RAPID is Logitech G's debut magnetic analog keyboard, offering adjustable actuation points and rapid trigger functionality. These features empower professionals to execute movements and commands with exceptional speed and precision. The keyboard's actuation points and rapid trigger settings can be adjusted instantly without software, making it ideal for esports pros who must configure new hardware on systems where software installation isn't allowed.

• Magnetic Analog Switches: Custom designed by Logitech G engineers to have industry-leading response linearity, these switches feature adjustable actuation points and rapid trigger capability for precise and swift movements.

• Key Priority: Logitech G’s easy-to-use implementation of Simultaneous Opposing Cardinal Directions (SOCD) resolution, this G HUB feature gives players more precision, speed, and control over in-game movement by assigning one or more pairs of keys to measure and compare actions, such as travel distance, last press, and neutral or absolute priority. 

• On-the-Fly Configuration: Designed to allow pros to quickly and easily configure actuation points and rapid trigger settings without G HUB installed, ideal for tournament systems that do not permit third-party software installation.

• G HUB Integration: KEYCONTROL provides detailed control of rapid trigger and switches travel settings, multi-actuation assignments, and multiple command layers. Users can also access the G HUB community and pro player settings to optimise their keyboard's capabilities.

• Sustainability: Constructed using post-consumer recycled aluminum and plastic.

“I think PRO X TKL RAPID will help many people strafe better in the game,” said Ilya “m0NESY'” Osipov, G2 Esports, Counter-Strike 2. “You can strafe so well and so fast you get an advantage. Knowing my feedback goes into this gear gives me even more confidence.”

We invite you to watch a behind-the-scenes PRO X TKL Rapid development video, showcasing our commitment to innovation and collaboration with the esports community.

For more information, please visit [Logitech G’s website].

Pricing and Availability:

The PRO X Superlight 2 DEX, the upgraded PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED, is available in pink, black, and white colorways at all major participating retailers.

• PRO X Superlight 2 DEX - Available on September 18 – RRP $329.95 NZD

For additional information, please visit our website and blog or connect with us on Instagram and X.

About PRO Series

Logitech G PRO Series is an award-winning lineup of professional-grade headsets, mice, and keyboards designed to the exact specifications of the world’s top esports athletes. Engineered through a rigorous Design by Collaboration program, PRO Series products include carefully selected features and innovations to achieve the absolute pinnacle of performance while providing the all-day comfort that professional gamers demand.