This is NOT a Film Festival will feature the film Raymond Sees Through Your Soul Via His Eyes'. That's Raymond pictured... find out how he sees into your soul at This is NOT a Film Festival #1.

THIS IS NOT A FILM FESTIVAL

Many of us dreamt of becoming the next Spike Jonze. When you were little did you steal the family camcorder and create masterpieces? Did you go on to furiously write scripts and wear berets? Maybe you even went to film school? But it's not that easy is it... More often than not, even if your film is amazing, it'll just end up on the net where only your mum will see it. That's where 'this is NOT a film festival' comes in. It has virtually no entry requirements - it is just promoting and screening interesting, original films.

It's not a competition, just good ol' fashioned enjoyment. So each month, you can catch some high quality film that you'd probably never get the chance to see otherwise, unless you're my mum... This is NOT a film festival #1 will feature the

The instigator of this new non film festival is Ben Andrews, who grew tired of the competitive nature of film festivals and the circuit's cliches and bitching.

"It annoyed me that short films weren't being enjoyed for what they are: short films. Short stories written by a writer, acted by actors, directed by directors and shot by DOP's. Just like a feature film that attracts millions of viewers every day around the world. Why can't we just go out and enjoy them?" Ben says.

A monthly non-competitive event, this is NOT a film festival is simply a night of entertaining short films that celebrate the spirit of independent original storytelling - diverse voices and films that push the limits of style and narrative.

1000 £ Bend Cinema
Event # 1 - Tuesday 10th August
Tix $10 on the door or email:
tickets@thisisnotafilmfestival.com
www.thisisnotafilmfestival.com

THE SIRENS OF VENICE

If you haven't heard of The Sirens of Venice – you will soon. Every so often, a band appears from out of nowhere that captivates and compels you to keep listening.

On a typically cold Melbourne winter's night, The Sirens of Venice took to the stage in front of an almost full house. I was amazed to find the eight (yes eight!) people in front of me immediately giving my ears a royal sonic orgasm. Lush guitars, driving drums and bass, beautifully arranged strings with ghostly backing vocals: songs that let your mind drift as if your were in a dream, only to be snapped out of it by a big sing-a-long chorus and gorgeous harmonies.

The band was tight, and I was surprised to find out later that this was their first full show as they sounded more like seasoned performers. They looked sharp and they played solid, taking you on a beautiful journey over the course of the show.

The ten track debut album was played start to finish impeccably and I found myself disappointed towards the end that the show was over. Standout songs were You & Me, Unrequited Dream #53, and the very catchy Do You Believe.

If you're a fan of the Flaming Lips, Arcade Fire or even the Pixies – The Sirens of Venice are a must for your gig calendar and record collection. Check their Facebook and MySpace pages for news of upcoming gigs and find their album on iTunes.

www.myspace.com/thesirensofvenice

IF MUSIC BE THE FOOD OF LIFE

Melbourne's buskers are as much a part of the city as tram delays and Strawberry Big M. Playing all day long to a fluid, sometimes fickle crowd these intrepid mintsrels have seen, heard and probably played it all.

In a feature we'll be running over the next few issues, Dan Kuseta asked a few what their favourite song was and why...

Chris:

First day busking after flying in from Auckland

Fav song?

Carousel by Blink 182

Why?

I grew up listening to Blink. I love that song so much I'm gonna get the sheet music tattooed on my leg later this year.

Wednesday, August 4 - Melbourne Horror Film Society 'Found Footage'

Tuesday, August 10 - This is Not a Film Festival

Sunday August 22 - Wednesday 25 - MUFF

Friday August 27 - Brazilian Cine night

'NOISES IN THE ATTIC' CINEMA SPACE

The 1000 £ Bend cinema space is alive, humming and hungry for screenings. Lolly bags are available, chocolate coffee beans, old style jaffas, and giant malteasers...

Complete with raw walls and floors, 1950s style seating and classic red carpet aisle, it is the most striking, memorable place to screen creative masterpieces. For info, get in touch! emily@getnotorious.com

BEG, SCREAM AND SHOUT!

No Vacancy presents the 2nd annual Beg, Scream and Shout! short film night showcasing a collection of short films, video artworks and music film clips by emerging filmmakers across Melbourne.

Selected by Mikey Leonard and Louise Klerks, the short films are diverse in content and style featuring music video clips from artists including Pikelet, Eddy Current Suppression Ring and films directed by Alex Watkins, Derry Sheehan, Mikey Leonard plus more.

This feast of audio-visual entertainment will be showcased in a unique indoor picnic environment. Bring your own cushion, free popcorn and small bar provided.

No Vacancy Gallery
Monday, August 2nd
www.no-vacancy.com.au

MAHJONG LADIES

I have a secret desire for the asian matriarchs, so we're putting on a Mahjong night and you're invited.

It'll be aloe martinis, gin or rum in tea cups, six to a table. Massive cheese platters, devils on horseback and scones topped with cream and jam, home-made golden syrup dumpings. All lipstick wearing ladies of style invited (females only) and only good looking men wearing bow ties serving us. Best styled wins all her drinks at the next one ON the HOUSE.

Advertised as 'Philosphy for the Advanced Female' out front, but inside it's just quick humour, great music and the click click click of the Mahjong pieces. Along with a healthy dose of laughter and clink of liquor-filled china.

Email your interest to howdy@getnotorious.com
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FROM HERE TO THERE

Those wanting to stay at the front of the fashion pack will ensure they make it onto the RSVP list for this exhibition of new and emerging fashion talent from WA.

Moving away from the format of "fashion parade" - where the viewer is merely just an observer, 'From Here to There' will allow people to gravitate to a space filled with beauty and talent.

The exhibition will highlight the striking imagery that designers develop to advertise and promote their brands. Images from their most recent collections will be on show as well as collection pieces for sale and order.

Some of the great names featuring at 'From Here to There' include; The Butcher and the Crow (pictured), Helena Bogucki, On Tour and Martini & Coz.

1000 £ Bend Cinema
25th - 31st August
Opening: Thursday, 25th August
RSVP essential via e-mail

BE MINE TREXI

When you were a kid, there was nothing more exciting than a lucky dip. Whether it be at the local market stall or in your favourite brand of Kellogs, the suspense is just so damn exciting!

Well, now there's a lucky dip for grown ups—or at least big kids.

Trexis are little freaky lookin' collectible toys from different designers around the world. They come in a Blind Box assortment, which means you can't see what's inside the box. Just like your childhood's beloved lucky dip.

Wanna be beside yourself with excitement? Well here's your chance. In 25 words or less, write to us on howdy@getnotorious.com and tell us about your dream lucky dip. The best entries will win a surprise Trexi doll of your very own.