Stella Donnelly on the painful friend breakup that inspired her new album: ‘I’m trying to protect them – but I’ve written this record’

At the Tokyo International Film Festival, Schuyler Weiss, the producer of 'Elvis,' highlighted Australia's potential as a global production hub. His insights, drawn from two decades of collaboration with renowned director Baz Luhrmann, underscore the strength of Australia's film ecosystem. This is significant as it positions Australia as an attractive destination for filmmakers, potentially boosting the local economy and enhancing its global cinematic presence.

Dan Astles recently discovered a mixtape belonging to his late uncle while exploring his grandparents' loft, which inspired him to create a new album. This heartfelt journey not only honors his uncle's memory but also highlights the powerful connection between music and family, reminding us of the lasting impact that loved ones can have on our creative endeavors.

Tortoise, the renowned post-rock band, has just released their first album in nearly a decade, titled 'Touch'. This atmospheric collection showcases their signature rich instrumental interplay and strong melodies, marking a significant return for the band. Fans and new listeners alike will appreciate the depth and creativity that Tortoise brings to the table, making this album a noteworthy addition to the music scene.

ASCAP, BMI, and SOCAN have announced new policies that allow for the registration of musical works that are partially generated by artificial intelligence. This is a significant step for the music industry as it embraces technological advancements, providing creators with more opportunities to innovate and collaborate with AI tools. By recognizing these works, the organizations are paving the way for a new era in music creation, ensuring that artists can benefit from the integration of AI in their creative processes.

Paramount and UFC are taking their partnership to new heights with a seven-year expansion into Latin America and Australia, starting in 2026. This move not only enhances the UFC's global presence but also opens up exciting opportunities for fans in these regions to engage with mixed martial arts like never before. It's a significant step for both organizations, promising to bring thrilling events and increased visibility to the sport.

Paramount and UFC are set to expand their partnership, bringing UFC media rights to Paramount+ in Latin America and Australia starting in 2026. This move builds on their existing agreement in the U.S., making Paramount+ the exclusive platform for all UFC events in the country. This expansion is significant as it not only enhances Paramount's content offerings but also allows UFC to reach a broader audience in key international markets.

Raye has announced that her stolen car, which contained important songbooks, has been found. This news comes as she describes her experience creating her second album as a 'rollercoaster journey.' The recovery of her belongings is a relief for the artist, highlighting the challenges musicians face while working on new projects.

Brandi Carlile's new album, 'Returning to Myself,' explores the balance between solitude and community, reflecting her personal journey. This introspective track highlights her growth as an artist while emphasizing the importance of connection with others, particularly her strengthened bond with Joni Mitchell. This album matters because it resonates with anyone navigating the complexities of self-discovery and relationships, showcasing Carlile's evolution and her commitment to authenticity.

Dwayne Johnson is receiving Oscar buzz for his standout performance in 'The Smashing Machine,' a film that breaks away from typical wrestling biopics. Our critic Emma Jones highlights how this film offers a fresh perspective on the struggles of a wrestler, making it a must-see. Additionally, Jeremy Allen White shines as Bruce Springsteen in 'Deliver Me From Nowhere,' directed by Scott Cooper, which explores a challenging time in Springsteen's career. The article also introduces Laura Carreira, a new talent who poignantly captures the challenges of the gig economy and the feeling of loneliness, making this film show a significant cultural moment.

Kate Hudson recently shared her emotional experience watching her new film 'Song Sung Blue' alongside her mother, Goldie Hawn, and her partner, Kurt Russell. This film marks a significant role for Hudson, reminiscent of her iconic character Penny Lane. She emphasizes that while Oscar buzz is exciting, it doesn't define her worth as an actress. This perspective highlights her growth and commitment to her craft, making her journey relatable and inspiring for many.

Betsy Brandt, known for her role in Breaking Bad, has been cast as a series regular in the third season of Anne Rice's Mayfair Witches, joining Alexandra Daddario. Brandt will portray a character named Katherine, although details about her role remain a mystery. This casting news is exciting for fans as production is already underway in Salem, MA, promising to explore deeper aspects of the show's mythology.

Crunchyroll is launching a 24/7 channel on Samsung Smart TVs, bringing a curated selection of popular anime series to fans. Starting Wednesday, viewers can enjoy titles like 'Yu Yu Hakusho,' 'Assassination Classroom,' and 'Black Clover' with both English subtitles and dubbing. This initiative not only enhances accessibility for anime lovers but also highlights the growing popularity of streaming platforms in delivering niche content to wider audiences.

PBS Masterpiece has announced that its highly anticipated costume drama, 'The Forsytes,' will premiere on March 22, 2026. This adaptation of John Galsworthy's classic novels will not only be available for streaming on the PBS app and Prime Video but will also air weekly on PBS. This is exciting news for fans of period dramas, as it brings a beloved literary work to life, promising to engage viewers with its rich storytelling and historical context.

The 66th Thessaloniki International Film Festival, running from October 30 to November 9, aims to highlight the creativity and resilience of independent filmmakers during challenging times. Festival director Orestis Andreadakis emphasizes the importance of showcasing 'restless,' 'inventive,' and 'unpredictable' cinema, providing a platform for voices that often go unheard. This festival not only celebrates artistic expression but also reflects the current global climate, making it a significant event for both filmmakers and audiences alike.