Latest news with #TheSmiths
Dublin Live
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Dublin Live
Motley crew of Morrissey fans camp outside 3Arena ahead of Dublin gig
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info A motley crew of Morrissey fans have camped outside the 3Arena for two nights to make sure they're front and centre for the enigmatic crooner's Dublin gig tonight. The former Smiths frontman has legions of devoted fans — and has since he partnered up with Johnny Marr, Mike Joyce, and Andy Rourke to form The Smiths in the early 1980s. After a successful few years together, the band split at the end of the decade, and Moz went solo. He is taking to the stage at the old Point Depot on Saturday night. And outside the arena, the pavement has been transformed into a vibrant camp by a devoted legion of followers. One of them is Chris Forrester, from Chorlton in Manchester, who has travelled across the Irish Sea to secure his coveted spot at the barrier. And for him and his fellow devotees, the two-day wait feels more like a pilgrimage. 'I travelled with my Welsh friend Sophie from Manchester Airport,' he explained. 'We got here on Thursday evening for a show on Saturday. "We've been scouting out the venue since we landed." The group gathered outside is truly global, with fans from London, Cardiff, Vienna, Barcelona, New York, Tokyo, and Chris' own Chorlton among their ranks. Chris told us how they have kept busy during the wait. He said: 'We're currently sat outside the venue dodging the rain, hiding red wine in Starbucks cups, talking about things we think are heady, and playing Dobble.' For Chris, Moz's pull is indescribable, but he does know he is proud to be present for a gig in his ancestral home - as Morrissey was born to Dublin emigrants in Manchester. 'I don't think I can explain what Morrissey means to me easily,' he admits. 'I'd need a psychoanalyst for that, to tell me why I sleep on the pavement to be at the front row. Morrissey has called us 'the art deco people', although I'd say I'm more of a brutalist. "I suppose I just want to be there. I feel lucky to be on the planet at the same time as Mozza and want to make the most of that. "It sounds lofty, I'm sure - but it's the only way I can describe it. Especially at a Dublin show, like a homecoming for the Irish son, and coming from Irish roots myself it feels special being here. "I think it's important to say how much we and I love M and how much he means to us." And the queue outside the 3Arena is a testament to Morrissey's enduring appeal. 'The multi-generational fan pool shows his appeal to people of all ages,' Chris added. 'We have fans here who saw him in The Smiths, and fans who are Gen Z.' This queuing is no anomaly, as similar scenes have unfolded at previous gigs. In 2022, the Manchester Evening News reported fans queuing for 24 hours outside Manchester's Apollo arena, braving the elements for a chance to be close to the stage. Join our Dublin Live breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive your daily dose of Dublin Live content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. For all the latest news from Dublin and surrounding areas visit our homepage.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘A Light That Never Goes Out' Is a Cannes Debut Opus on Outcasts, Depression, Music, and Hope
'Take me out tonight…where there's music and there's people,' The Smiths say in their 1986 song 'There Is a Light That Never Goes Out.' Filmmaker, musician, and graphic designer Lauri-Matti Parppei grew up in the coastal town of Rauma, Finland. And they take audiences there and out to where music and people come together in their feature film debut, A Light That Never Goes Out, which world premiered in the ACID Cannes 2025 program, a sidebar to the Cannes Film Festival run by France's independent cinemas' association. 'Successful classical flutist Pauli (29) returns to his small hometown after a breakdown,' reads a synopsis for the movie, starring Samuel Kujala, Anna Rosaliina Kauno, Camille Auer, and Kaisa-Leena Koskenkorva. 'Reconnecting with old schoolmate Iiris, he is drawn into experimental music. Pauli, who has always sought perfection, is drawn to her chaotic energy and finds comfort in their sonic experiments.' More from The Hollywood Reporter Netflix, BBC Studios Team on Comedy Podcast 'The Big Pitch With Jimmy Carr' Presley Chweneyagae, Star of South African Oscar-winner 'Tsotsi', Dies at 40 Co Hoedeman, Oscar-Winning Canadian Animator, Dies at 84 Produced by Finland's Made and co-produced by Norway's Goodtime Pictures, A Light That Never Goes Out takes audiences on a journey of struggles and laughs. It has been picked up for French distribution by Les Alchimistes. Patra Spanou Film is handling sales. The filmmaker may have set the movie in a Finnish location known to few but the universal story rings a bell on alienation and the healing powers of community that seems fit to strike a chord with audiences far beyond Finland. Parppei talked to THR about the inspiration for A Light That Never Goes Out, its themes of outcasts and mental health issues, creating its experimental music, returning to Rauma to film, and possible future projects. What was the inspiration for your film? And to what degree does it show some of your personal experiences? My background is basically in the world that the film is showing. I'm from a small town, and I was a pretty lonely teenager. I had nothing else to do, so I started to make a lot of weird music and art. And through that hobby, I started to find friends. We were a bunch of outcasts, but we came from very different social classes and from very different backgrounds. And somehow we shared this massive drive to do something of our own and somehow shape the world to our liking. So I really just wanted to depict that world and that experience of doing art in it. Was part of your motivation for the film to give hope to people who feel like outcasts? Yeah, absolutely. I think 90 percent of the motif behind the film was just to give this feeling to people when they think how they could maybe do something like that. When we started making music, we didn't really have any skills to do so, and we just kind of learned as we went. I remember when someone asked me: 'Is it hard to hard to start to play guitar?' And I always just like saying: 'Well, it's very easy to play just one string, and you can make a song out of that.' So, this was our approach. So, yes, basically it's to encourage people to try out their own voice in different ways. In the movie, we see the characters using clothes hangers and other unusual items you wouldn't traditionally expect to see in the creation of music. How did you create the experimental music we hear in the film? You can say that it was a composition itself. Well, it was pretty meticulously written in the screenplay already: that's what's going to happen in the scene, and how the songs build up and progress. But then, after we cast the actual actors, we started to play around with things. And I brought them lots of crates full of different stuff. And our set production designer also came up with a lot of things, and then I kind of modified them and put on contact mics. And, yeah, I wrote and produced the music, but basically we created and arranged it together. Everything is played live on camera. The protagonist is facing mental health struggles. I am not sure if you would call it depression or something else. How key was it to showcase these struggles, and how did you approach that? Yeah, depression and anxiety – all the fun things, those illnesses or disorders, whatever the word is. That was a pretty integral part of the whole setting, because during the time when I was most active and still living in this small town – I actually moved back once – me and my friends, a lot of us struggled with all sorts of mental health issues, and some struggled with some substance or alcoholism and things like that. But somehow, making music and being with your friends always was a safe haven from that. Somehow it didn't reach that place. So, we really saved each other, even in a literal sense, during that time. And while depression and self-harm is not something that is thoroughly explored itself, it kind of paints the setting because I've struggled with similar issues myself. I kind of find depictions of depression a little exploitative somehow, if that's the word. How? In films, we are often putting depressive music and dark sounds around it, and someone is looking out of the window in a darkly lit scene. But being depressed is extremely boring. And it's about if you can find anything to fill up the boredom. Sometimes it's very harmful things. For me, it was pretty important to not romanticize depression, but show that this depressed person gets something completely different in their life. Did you need or look for help writing your characters? The two main characters are me in very different places in my life. One was me in a small town being very scrappy – I just wanted to make something of my own. 'Why don't people understand my ingenuity?!' And the other person is like me when I'm trying to be a filmmaker, and that world is very different. I kind of feel like a classical musician. I've never been a classical musician, but it's something that I feel because I need to adhere to some rules and bow down to the establishment and beg for money to make a film. At the same time, I have a lot of friends who have been more successful, and a couple of people who are close to me are also classical musicians. For me, it's absurd how they face pressures and how they are just thinking about how to present themselves to other musicians. And I get anxiety just watching them being stressed about their work. How is going back home these days? I am from a small town, and during the time that the film takes place in, I was a little too visible at times. I am not a person who wants to be the center of attention, even though I'm a musician. We have a band, so it kind of protects me from that. But I organized a festival there. We had a small record company there. We had the band, which still has strong ties to the town, and now I'm the filmmaker who has made the first film about that town. So, it sometimes feels a little uncomfortable to go to this place where a lot of people have an image of me, which is not really true, and they have had this for a long time, because I also used to work as a graphic designer in that town. I was just involved in this and that. So that is just part of being a small local celebrity. What was it like to return to Rauma to shoot the film and will you screen the movie there? Actually, we will have the first Finnish screening there. I was actually quoted by the biggest newspaper in Finland as saying that I don't care what the French say about the film, I only care what the people of Rauma think. I am a little nervous to hear how they react to it. But at the same time, it's my view of that place and my view on life and the world altogether. It's actually been super-rewarding to see how the film has crossed borders. Because the characters are speaking a very distinctive local dialect, and that's, of course, completely lost in translation. But that's the thing that Finnish viewers will notice first in the film, because it's very different. I've been super happy to see that there are similar small towns everywhere, and people can relate to the feeling of being there. While shooting in Rauma, did you cast any locals or did any people come up to you to ask for a role in the film? People were pretty indifferent to it in a funny way. They were just like: 'Yeah, they're filming some film.'But we have a lot of local people playing characters. The man playing a music store guy is a local guy who used to work in a music store that is now gone. And a couple on a boat was just some random couple from there. We asked them: 'You have a boat. Can you come play a small part?' So, we involved a lot of people. Are your main characters professional actors? Only the main character [played by Samuel Kujala] and his parents are professional actors. He has been in a couple of films and a very popular TV series. Everyone else is in their first role. Anna [Rosaliina Kauno] is actually from the town. We're so happy that we found her, because she really keeps the whole film together, to be honest. actually directed by a guy who is just in the room. Oh, okay, yeah, but yeah, well, but most days, just like new, complete newcomers and cool. It's very important for me to bring new people along when doing something, and even though I know for a fact that at least a couple of them won't be acting that much after this, I hope Anna will continue. Will we get to see more films from you? I hope I can get more films made. Currently, I'm working on two different projects. One will be a super-micro-budget thing, a small, small drama about an abusive relationship, a psychological drama. The other one will be a folk tale, a film which takes place in the countryside in Finland, in a rural setting, on a farm. I've started writing, so it's in early development. After my first feature, which took seven years from start to finish, or even slightly more, with a new project, I'm looking at a seven-year mountain. So it's just scary, but I think it's part of the charm of this profession. Anything else you'd like to highlight about or anything else? The thing was really behind the film, the whole concept was about friendship and hope, and what friendship and unity, and community can bring along. I'm just super-happy that the film, which I thought might just be a small, silly music film from my own hometown, which isn't that much of a marketable concept itself, is now out in the world and seems to actually touch people and pull the strings that we wanted to pull. I think that during these times, it's pretty important to have that. Best of The Hollywood Reporter 13 of Tom Cruise's Most Jaw-Dropping Stunts Hollywood Stars Who Are One Award Away From an EGOT 'The Goonies' Cast, Then and Now
Time Out Dubai
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Why Studio Frantzén should be your next night out on the Palm
Looking for an out-of-the-ordinary dining experience? We know just the place to head to. With a playlist personally curated by the founder himself, a menu of bold French-Asian flavours, and a whole lot of personality, this modern European bistro from one of the most iconic chefs in the world, Björn Frantzén, the only chef alive with three restaurants awarded three MICHELIN stars, redefines what dining out should feel like. Tucked away on The Palm, Studio Frantzén channels the spirit of a refined bistro with a playful edge. A glittering chandelier steals the spotlight, red chairs pop against crisp white tablecloths and every corner reveals a playful surprise. Here, dining moves to its own rhythm, making it just right for casual meet-ups, late night drinks with friends or a date night to remember. Look inside This spot is made for those who like to linger, with an exclusive bar and lounge, intimate booths, a chef's counter overlooking the open kitchen and a private dining room for moments that call for a bit more ceremony. And can we talk about the playlist? Featuring 300 handpicked songs by Björn himself, the music offers a mix of genres, from classic rock hits like Guns N' Roses to timeless tracks from The Smiths, creating the perfect background for an unforgettable evening. What's on the menu? The menu showcases bold French-Asian flavours and refined techniques that highlight pure ingredients, reflecting Björn Frantzén's culinary philosophy. Expect dishes that make the best of natural ingredients but with unexpected touches. Think baby chicken with miso beurre blanc and burnt hay oil, or a Caesar salad that swaps the usual chicken for guinea fowl, adds pine nuts, and throws in a little miso togarashi to keep things interesting. Even the sides come from the fireplace, so there's warmth in every bite. Want a grape to pair your decadent meal with? Let the sommelier select the perfect match from a cellar boasting over 1,800 labels. Whereas, the mixed drinks bring bold character for those seeking something different. Weekend lunches And if you're in the mood for a proper weekend wind-down (or wind-up, depending on your energy), their Luncheon happens every Saturday and Sunday from 12.30pm to 4pm. It's Dhs195 for the set menu of two courses and a side. If you fancy pairing it with two hours of free-flowing beverages, simply top up for Dhs225. Click here to peruse the menu. You'll be choosing between dishes like grilled prawns with lacto fermented red curry dressing and ginger aioli or a summery artichoke and grilled green asparagus plate with pea miso and pistachios. Grape lovers, take note Experience The Hidden Cellar, where head sommelier Ognjen Samardzic hosts an intimate monthly dinner in the private dining room, featuring a curated selection from over 1,800 labels and a thoughtfully prepared menu for just fourteen guests. The event is usually announced during the first week of each month. This intimate grape dinner experience is Dhs1,200 per person and the latest one is happening on Wednesday May 28, from 7.30pm. We'll see you there? Make a reservation now: Open Mon-Fri 6pm-1am; Sat-Sun noon-4pm, 6pm-1am. Weekend lunch: 12.30pm-4pm. Atlantis, The Palm, Palm Jumeirah
RTÉ News
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- RTÉ News
Sanders' unveil 'Johnny I hardly knew ye' plaque in Athy
Wife of US Senator Bernie Sanders, Jane O'Meara Sanders, has called for an end to "sending our sons and daughters to war" during a visit to Athy, Co Kildare. The couple unveiled a plaque commemorating the song 'Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye' at a war memorial in St Michael's Cemetery outside the south Kildare town this afternoon. Ms O'Meara Sanders can directly trace her ancestors, the Coyles, back to Athy, of which some are commemorated at the graveyard having fought during World War One. Written in the 19th century, 'Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye', an Irish anti-war folk song, tells the story of an Athy woman who reunites with her lover Johnny, now unrecognisable after returning from war. Speaking at the unveiling, Ms O'Meara Sanders said the song was often sung during protests during the Vietnam War. "We sang it at every march, at every rally, sadly at home. "But what we need to do is take these words to heart and not send any more of our sons and daughters to war," she said. Watch: Jane O'Meara Sanders says it is 'wonderful' to be in ancestral home of Athy Before the unveiling, Senator Sanders and Ms O'Meara Sanders gave an address to the public in Athy Library, where she was gifted with local artwork and a recreation of her Irish family tree. Ms O'Meara Sanders said she never expected "such an incredibly welcoming homecoming. "I met the Coyles, our extended family, the Sheridans, the O'Mearas, the Murphys, the Lees and the Donovans, we've got them all over. "Athy has a wonderful approach to arts culture and music in Ireland, and I saw it just in the hour I've been here. "I'm incredibly impressed," she added. The Sanders' visit was part of the 'Made of Athy' campaign. Established in 2018, the campaign has seen the town erect some 26 plaques in honour of notable figures with a connection to the town. It includes guitarist of The Smiths Johnny Marr, Buzzcocks drummer John Maher, and Stones Roses bassist, Gary "Mani" Mountfield. Colm Walsh from 'Made of Athy', who invited the couple to today's celebration and joined them for the unveiling, described the event as a "full circle" moment. "This piece of music became popular during the Vietnam war, and it's very fitting because that's when the Sanders spent their apprenticeship doing peace activism. "They're much more familiar with the song than the Irish people are. "So, it's great that we can come full circle and have them here," he said. Mr Walsh added that the song remains relevant almost 160 years later. "This song never goes out of fashion unfortunately. "It's as relevant to Gaza and Ukraine as they were almost 200 years ago." "It's so important that the Sanders came here and recognised the connection between music, conflict and culture," he said. Senator Sanders is due to meet President Michael D Higgins at Áras an Uachtaráin tomorrow. President Higgins previously met Senator Sanders during his visits to Ireland in February 2024 and June 2017.
RTÉ News
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- RTÉ News
Sanders to unveil 'Johnny I hardly knew ye' plaque in Athy
Bernie Sanders and his wife Jane O'Meara Sanders are due to unveil a plaque commemorating the song 'Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye' in Athy Co Kildare this afternoon. The US Senator's visit is part of the 'Made of Athy' campaign, which, since it began in 2018, has seen the town erect some 26 plaques in honour of notable figures with a connection to the town. Senator Sanders' wife Jane O'Meara Sanders can directly trace her ancestors, the Coyles, back to the south Kildare town. Written in the 19th century, 'Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye', an Irish anti-war folk song, tells the story of an Athy woman who reunites with her lover Johnny, now unrecognisable after returning from war. A plaque commemorating the song will be officially unveiled at 3pm at St Michael's Cemetery - followed by a traditional music session in the nearby O'Brien's pub. Before that, Senator Sanders and Ms O'Meara-Sanders will give an address to the public in Athy Library at 2pm. They will be joined at the event by Made of Athy founder Colm Walsh, and the Mayor of Athy, Cllr Aoife Breslin. Other musical figures commemorated by the Made of Athy campaign include Johnny Marr, guitarist of The Smiths, Buzzcocks drummer John Maher, and Stones Roses bassist, Gary "Mani" Mountfield. Yesterday Senator Sanders delivered a keynote address at the Robert Tressell Festival at Liberty Hall in Dublin. The event brought together trade unionists and labour activists from Ireland and abroad. Senator Sanders is due to meet President Michael D Higgins at Áras an Uachtaráin tomorrow. President Higgins previously met Senator Sanders during his visits to Ireland in February 2024 and June 2017.
