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Streaming Releases This Week: Soul Mate, Jack Ryan Returns and Major New Series Drops Across Australia: 14 – 20 May 2026

Aspley News Columnist — Wed, 13 May 2026 04:03:47 +0000

This week’s streaming lineup brings a mix of returning franchises, limited series, crime dramas and fresh international releases across Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Apple TV+ and Max. From new seasons of established hits to documentary-style storytelling and animated favourites, there’s a broad range of content arriving throughout the week.

FEATURED RELEASES

Soul Mate: Limited Series

14 May 2026 | Netflix

A limited series exploring interconnected relationships and emotional consequences as characters navigate love, fate and unexpected life turns.

On the Roam: Season 2

14 May 2026 | Max

A documentary-style series following creative journeys, craftsmanship and personal storytelling across different locations and disciplines.

Berlin and the Lady with an Ermine: Season 1

15 May 2026 | Netflix

A European crime drama blending historical mystery and modern investigation as secrets tied to a famous artwork resurface.

Dutton Ranch: Season 1

15 May 2026 | Paramount+

A western drama expanding the universe of ranch life, power struggles and family legacy in a modern frontier setting.

It’s Not Like That: Season 1

15 May 2026 | Prime Video

A contemporary drama exploring relationships, misunderstandings and shifting dynamics between friends and partners.

Rivals: Season 2

15 May 2026 | Disney+

A high-stakes drama of competition and ambition as rivalries intensify in both personal and professional arenas.

Welcome to Wrexham: Season 5

15 May 2026 | Disney+

A documentary series following the ongoing journey of a football club and its community, focusing on sport, identity and local culture.

Father Mother Sister Brother

19 May 2026 | Apple TV+

A multi-perspective drama examining family relationships and emotional distance across three interconnected stories.

Hoppers

19 May 2026 | Apple TV+

An animated family adventure following a young protagonist navigating discovery, friendship and unexpected challenges.

Family Guy: Season 23

20 May 2026 | Disney+

The long-running animated comedy returns with more satirical takes on pop culture, politics and everyday absurdities.

Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan: Ghost War

20 May 2026 | Prime Video

An action-packed spy thriller continuing the Jack Ryan universe with covert missions, global threats and high-stakes intelligence operations.

Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed: Season 1

20 May 2026 | Apple TV+

A dark comedy-drama exploring ambition, relationships and personal excess in a world driven by success and image.

From highly anticipated new series drops and returning favourites to documentaries and animated releases, this week’s streaming lineup delivers a strong mix of entertainment across Australia’s major platforms.

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Shrek 25th Anniversary, Blockbusters and Cult Classics in Brisbane Cinemas: 14 – 20 May 2026

Aspley News Columnist — Wed, 13 May 2026 03:22:36 +0000

This week’s cinema lineup brings together major new releases, anniversary screenings, sci-fi blockbusters and family favourites across Brisbane cinemas. From the return of Shrek on the big screen to action thrillers, arthouse dramas and crowd-pleasing franchise films, there’s a wide mix of things to watch this week for mainstream audiences and film lovers alike.

In The Grey

14 May 2026 | Angelika Cinemas (Woolloongabba), Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cinebar Rosalie Village (Rosalie), Cineplex (Balmoral, Redbank, South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt, Springfield Central), Five Star Cinemas (Red Hill), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace Barracks Brisbane, Palace James St Cinema, Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket)

A tense action thriller unfolds across international locations as a covert operation spirals into danger. The film combines espionage, large-scale action sequences and suspense-driven storytelling.

Shrek 25th Anniversary

14 May 2026 | Cineplex (Balmoral, South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo, Portside – Hamilton, Powerhouse – New Farm), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt, Springfield Central), Five Star Cinemas (Brisbane City, New Farm, Red Hill), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace James St Cinema

The animated classic returns to cinemas for its 25th anniversary, bringing back the adventures of Shrek, Donkey and Fiona for a new generation of audiences.

Mother Mary

14 May 2026 | Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo), Event Cinemas (Chermside, Indooroopilly), Five Star Cinemas (New Farm), HOYTS (Stafford), Palace Barracks Brisbane, Palace James St Cinema

This music-focused drama follows the complicated relationship between fame, performance and personal identity through the story of a globally recognised pop star.

A Private Life

14 May 2026 | Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo, Portside – Hamilton, Powerhouse – New Farm), Event Cinemas (Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt), Five Star Cinemas (Graceville, New Farm), HOYTS (Stafford), Palace Barracks Brisbane, Palace James St Cinema

A character-driven drama explores family relationships, personal choices and emotional tensions through an intimate contemporary narrative.

STILL SHOWING

Hoppers

Cineplex (Redbank), Event Cinemas (Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt), Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket), United Cinemas Eldorado

This animated adventure follows a group of energetic characters navigating unexpected challenges and comedic situations in a fast-paced family story.

Michael

Angelika Cinemas (Woolloongabba), Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cinebar Rosalie Village (Rosalie), Cineplex (South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo, Portside – Hamilton), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt, Springfield Central), Five Star Cinemas (Brisbane City, Graceville, New Farm, Red Hill), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace Barracks Brisbane, Palace James St Cinema, Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket), United Cinemas Eldorado

This biographical music drama traces the life, career and cultural impact of one of pop music’s most influential performers.

Mortal Kombat II

Angelika Cinemas (Woolloongabba), Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cinebar Rosalie Village (Rosalie), Cineplex (South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo, Portside – Hamilton), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt, Springfield Central), Five Star Cinemas (Brisbane City, New Farm, Red Hill), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace James St Cinema, Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket), United Cinemas Eldorado

The action-fantasy sequel expands the popular video game universe with large-scale tournament battles, martial arts combat and returning fan-favourite characters.

Obsession

Cinebar Rosalie Village (Rosalie), Cineplex (Balmoral, Redbank, South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt, Springfield Central), Five Star Cinemas (Brisbane City, New Farm, Red Hill), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace James St Cinema

This psychological thriller examines manipulation, secrecy and escalating tension through a suspense-focused storyline.

Project Hail Mary

Angelika Cinemas (Woolloongabba), Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cinebar Rosalie Village (Rosalie), Cineplex (Balmoral, South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo, Portside – Hamilton, Powerhouse – New Farm), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt, Springfield Central), Five Star Cinemas (Brisbane City, Graceville, New Farm, Red Hill), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace Barracks Brisbane, Palace James St Cinema, Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket), United Cinemas Eldorado

A lone astronaut embarks on a high-stakes mission to save humanity in this science-fiction adaptation combining space exploration, mystery and survival.

The Devil Wears Prada 2

The fashion-world sequel revisits familiar characters as changing media landscapes and personal ambitions reshape the industry around them.

The Magic Faraway Tree

Cinebar Rosalie Village (Rosalie), Cineplex (Redbank), Event Cinemas (Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt), HOYTS (Sunnybank), Reading Cinemas (Newmarket), United Cinemas Eldorado

Based on the classic children’s stories, this fantasy adventure follows magical discoveries and imaginative worlds hidden within an enchanted tree.

The Sheep Detectives

This family mystery-comedy follows an unlikely group of sheep investigating unusual events in their rural community.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

Angelika Cinemas (Woolloongabba), Cinebar Rosalie Village (Rosalie), Cineplex (Hawthorne Cinemas, Redbank), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket), United Cinemas Eldorado

Mario and friends return for a new animated space adventure filled with colourful worlds, fast-paced action and familiar Nintendo characters.

GOMA

Dead Ringers

17 May 2026

David Cronenberg’s psychological thriller explores identity, obsession and psychological collapse through the story of twin gynaecologists with increasingly fractured lives.

Invasion of the Body Snatchers

20 May 2026

This classic science-fiction horror film examines paranoia and conformity as a mysterious alien force begins replacing humans with emotionless duplicates.

The Thing

20 May 2026

John Carpenter’s cult horror film follows a remote Antarctic research team confronting a shape-shifting alien organism capable of imitating its victims.

From nostalgic anniversary screenings and major studio releases to cult horror classics at GOMA, this week’s cinema lineup offers a broad mix of blockbuster entertainment, family films and specialty programming across Brisbane.

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Theatre, Literature and Live Arts in Brisbane: 15 – 17 May 2026

Aspley News Columnist — Sun, 10 May 2026 15:16:40 +0000

Live theatre, opera, exhibitions and literary events feature across local arts venues this weekend, including stage productions, gallery works, concerts and author talks. Things to do this weekend include contemporary theatre, classical performance, storytelling events and immersive art experiences across the area.

Heart Dance

23 April – 28 May 2026 | Thomas Dixon Centre, West End
Get Tickets

A dance and performance exhibition exploring movement, emotion and physical expression through contemporary choreography.

The Drover’s Wife – The Opera

13 – 22 May 2026 | Glasshouse Theatre – Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), South Brisbane
Get Tickets

An operatic adaptation of the classic Australian story, blending dramatic stage performance with contemporary musical composition in a large-scale theatre production.

Duck Pond

13 – 16 May 2026 | Playhouse, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), South Brisbane
Get Tickets

A reimagined theatrical performance inspired by the traditional Swan Lake narrative, combining physical theatre, dance and modern interpretation.

Eat Slay Zombie

14 – 30 May 2026 | La Boite Theatre, Kelvin Grove
Get Tickets

A contemporary theatre production exploring dark comedy and survival themes in a stylised stage performance.

Bands in Parks: Twilight Jazz by the River

15 May 2026 | Queensland Maritime Museum, South Brisbane
Find out more

A live outdoor jazz performance as part of the Bands in Parks program, featuring twilight music by the river in a relaxed public setting.

Italian Gala

15 May 2026 | Concert Hall, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), South Brisbane
Get Tickets

A classical music and cultural performance celebrating Italian music traditions with orchestral and vocal works.

Three Storytellers, One Piano

15 May 2026 | Impress Gallery, Wooloowin
Find out more

A collaborative performance combining spoken word storytelling with live piano accompaniment in an intimate gallery setting.

Step Inside the Music – A One Day Event

16 May 2026 | Sandgate Town Hall, Sandgate
Get Tickets

A live music and community event featuring performances and interactive musical experiences throughout the day.

Rachel Amphlett: ‘What Evil Hides’

16 May 2026 | Brisbane Square Library, Brisbane City
Find out more

An author talk and literary event featuring crime writer Rachel Amphlett discussing her novel What Evil Hides.

Poets on Saturday

16 May 2026 | Wynnum Library, Wynnum
Find out more

A community poetry event featuring live readings and spoken word performances from local writers.

This weekend’s arts program includes theatre productions, opera, dance, literature and live music across galleries, libraries and performance venues.

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Family Activities, Festivals and Kids Events in Brisbane: 15 – 17 May 2026

Aspley News Columnist — Sun, 10 May 2026 15:09:08 +0000

Family-friendly events feature across local venues this weekend, including festivals, open days, workshops, outdoor activities and interactive experiences for children. Things to do this weekend include science-based activities, library programs, community festivals, planetarium shows and hands-on learning experiences across the area.

Encounters in the Milky Way

15 May 2026 | Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, Mt Coot-tha
Get Tickets

A planetarium experience exploring astronomy and space through immersive visual presentations. The session is designed for families and introduces key concepts about the galaxy and universe.

Kids Sports

15 May 2026 | Wakerley Park, Wakerley
Find out more

A community sports session designed for children to participate in outdoor physical activities and team-based games in a relaxed park setting.

Children’s Storytime in the Park

15 May 2026 | Frew Park, Milton
Find out more

An outdoor storytelling session for children featuring interactive reading and early literacy activities in a park environment.

Dog Lovers Festival

16 – 17 May 2026 | Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills
Get Tickets

A large-scale festival celebrating dogs and pet culture, featuring exhibits, demonstrations, and family-friendly entertainment across two days.

Autumn Fest

16 May 2026 | St David’s Neighbourhood Centre, Coopers Plains
Find out more

A community autumn celebration featuring seasonal activities, food stalls and family entertainment in a local neighbourhood setting.

Podcasting for Teens

16 May 2026 | Indooroopilly Library, Indooroopilly
Find out more

A workshop designed for teenagers introducing podcast creation, storytelling and basic audio production skills.

Sphero Games for Families

16 May 2026 | Bulimba Library, Bulimba
Find out more

An interactive tech-based family activity using Sphero robots to explore coding, movement and game-based learning.

Brisbane Grammar School Open Day Tours 2026

16 May 2026 | Brisbane Grammar School, Spring Hill
Find out more

An open day event offering guided tours of the school campus and information sessions for prospective students and families.

30th Sherwood Community Festival

16 May 2026 | Sherwood Arboretum, Sherwood
Find out more

A community festival celebrating its 30th year with live entertainment, food, activities and family-friendly programming.

Family STEAM

16 May 2026 | Chermside Library, Chermside
Find out more

A hands-on learning session focused on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics activities for families and children.

Brisbane Rodeo

16 May 2026 | Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills
Get Tickets

A rodeo event featuring traditional rodeo competitions and family entertainment at the Brisbane Showgrounds.

Little Artist’s Eye Spy

Daily | Museum of Brisbane, Brisbane City
Find out more

An interactive exhibition experience for children encouraging observation and creative engagement through visual discovery activities.

Perfect Little Planet

16 – 17 May 2026 | Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, Mt Coot-tha
Get Tickets

A family-friendly planetarium show following a fictional journey through the solar system, designed to introduce children to planetary science.

Little Navigators Early Learning Centre’s Open Day

16 May 2026 | Little Navigators Early Learning, Everton Park
Find out more

An open day event for families to explore early learning facilities and meet educators in a childcare environment.

This weekend’s family lineup includes festivals, educational workshops, planetarium shows, community events and hands-on activities across local venues.

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Tribute Tours, Indie Gigs and Comedy Shows in Brisbane: 15 – 17 May 2026

Aspley News Columnist — Sun, 10 May 2026 15:01:00 +0000

Live music, tribute concerts, comedy and touring performances feature across local venues this weekend, with events ranging from indie and alternative gigs to arena shows and stand-up performances. Things to do this weekend include tribute acts, international touring artists, comedy shows and live entertainment in theatres, music halls and performance venues throughout the area.

Geraldine Hickey

14 – 17 May 2026 | The Princess Theatre, Woolloongabba
Book Now

Comedian Geraldine Hickey performs a multi-night stand-up show featuring observational humour and personal storytelling.

Electrifying 80s

15 May 2026 | The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley
Get Tickets

A live concert event celebrating iconic hits and artists from the 1980s. The show features a nostalgic mix of pop and rock favourites performed in a live venue setting.

J.I.D

15 May 2026 | The Fortitude Music Hall, Fortitude Valley
Get Tickets

American rapper J.I.D brings his live tour to Australia with a performance featuring tracks from across his catalogue. The show highlights his rapid-fire lyricism and hip hop production style.

Ray O’Leary

15 – 17 May 2026 | The Princess Theatre, Woolloongabba
Book Now

New Zealand comedian Ray O’Leary presents a live comedy performance known for dry humour and deadpan delivery.

Hellions (10 Years of Opera Oblivia)

15 May 2026 | The Triffid, Newstead
Get Tickets

Australian hardcore band Hellions marks ten years of Opera Oblivia with a special anniversary performance. The concert revisits material from the album alongside other fan favourites.

Akmal: My Family and Other Criminals

15 May 2026 | Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm
Book Now

Comedian Akmal presents a stand-up show featuring observational humour and personal stories. The performance is part of his ongoing comedy tour.

Charley – Serial Idealist Tour

15 May 2026 | Crowbar Brisbane, Fortitude Valley
Get Tickets

Singer-songwriter Charley performs as part of the Serial Idealist Tour. The live show features indie-pop material and recent releases.

Split Enz: Forever Enz Tour 2026

16 May 2026 | Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Boondall
Get Tickets

Members connected to legendary New Zealand band Split Enz reunite for the Forever Enz Tour 2026. The concert revisits well-known songs from the group’s extensive catalogue.

Loathe

16 May 2026 | The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley
Get Tickets

British alternative metal band Loathe performs alongside Static Dress in a touring live show. The event combines heavy music with atmospheric and experimental influences.

Audrey Hobert – The Staircase to Stardom Tour

16 May 2026 | The Fortitude Music Hall, Fortitude Valley
Get Tickets

Audrey Hobert brings The Staircase to Stardom Tour with a live performance showcasing her alternative pop sound and original music.

Pete Helliar

16 – 17 May 2026 | The Princess Theatre, Woolloongabba
Book Now

Australian comedian Pete Helliar performs a live stand-up show featuring storytelling, observations and new comedy material across two nights.

Homage to Janis Ian

16 May 2026 | Topology Creative Hub, The Gap
Find out more

This live music event pays tribute to singer-songwriter Janis Ian through performances of selected songs and interpretations of her work.

Luca Brasi – ITIAWGTB 10 Year Anniversary Tour

16 May 2026 | The Triffid, Newstead
Get Tickets

Tasmanian punk rock band Luca Brasi celebrates the anniversary of If This Is All We’re Going to Be with a special live performance.

Queen Forever Greatest Hits Tour

16 May 2026 | Concert Hall, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), South Brisbane
Get Tickets

This tribute production celebrates the music of Queen with live performances of well-known hits spanning the band’s career.

Bon Jovi Tribute Show

16 May 2026 | Wynnum Manly Leagues Club, Manly West
Get Tickets

A tribute concert featuring live renditions of Bon Jovi classics and popular rock anthems from the band’s catalogue.

Maggie Lindemann

17 May 2026 | The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley
Get Tickets

Singer-songwriter Maggie Lindemann performs with a setlist featuring pop and alternative releases from her recent work.

Genesis Owusu

17 May 2026 | The Fortitude Music Hall, Fortitude Valley
Get Tickets

Genesis Owusu brings his genre-blending live performance combining hip hop, funk and alternative influences in a full concert production.

This weekend’s lineup includes tribute concerts, touring musicians, stand-up comedy and alternative live performances across local venues.

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What’s Streaming This Week: Fantasy Epics, Prestige Drama and Big Franchise Returns: 07 – 13 May 2026

Aspley News Columnist — Wed, 06 May 2026 21:30:46 +0000

Streaming platforms are rolling out a packed week of major premieres, returning fan favourites and prestige originals across every genre imaginable. From the long-awaited return of Good Omens and Devil May Cry to chilling new thrillers, emotional literary adaptations and high-profile Apple TV film releases, this week’s lineup offers plenty for binge-watchers and movie lovers alike.

M.I.A.: Season 1

07 May 2026 | Paramount+
Watch here

This new thriller series follows a missing persons investigation that quickly spirals into conspiracy, danger and hidden identities. Atmospheric storytelling and tense pacing position it as one of Paramount+’s major new dramas for the month.

Legends: Season 1

07 May 2026 | Netflix
Watch here

Netflix launches a sweeping fantasy-adventure series blending mythology, ancient conflict and large-scale world-building. Designed as a prestige franchise starter, the series leans heavily into cinematic visuals and ensemble storytelling.

The Chestnut Man: Season 2 – Hide and Seek

07 May 2026 | Netflix
Watch here

The acclaimed Nordic noir thriller returns with another disturbing investigation filled with psychological tension and grim atmosphere. The second season deepens the mystery while expanding the show’s unsettling emotional stakes.

The Terror: Season 3 – Devil in Silver

08 May 2026 | Stan
Watch here

Stan’s horror anthology continues with a new chapter blending psychological horror, supernatural dread and institutional paranoia. The latest season leans into slow-building tension and unsettling imagery.

Unconditional: Season 1

08 May 2026 | Apple TV+
Watch here

This emotionally driven drama explores loyalty, grief and human connection through intimate character storytelling and polished production values. Apple TV+ continues its focus on prestige adult drama with this high-profile debut.

Remarkably Bright Creatures

08 May 2026 | Netflix
Watch here

Based on the bestselling novel, this heartfelt adaptation blends emotional drama with whimsical storytelling and unexpected friendship. The film balances warmth, humour and melancholy in a crowd-friendly literary adaptation.

Undertone

08 May 2026 | Apple TV+
Watch here

This moody psychological thriller combines stylish visual direction with slow-burning suspense and emotional instability. Its intimate storytelling and atmospheric tension make it a standout addition to Apple TV+’s film slate.

Devil May Cry: Season 2

12 May 2026 | Netflix
Watch here

The action-heavy anime adaptation returns with larger battles, demonic chaos and expanded mythology surrounding the iconic game franchise. Fast-paced combat and stylish animation continue driving strong fan interest.

The First Hymn

12 May 2026 | Apple TV+
Watch here

This reflective historical drama explores faith, music and personal transformation through visually rich storytelling and intimate performances. The film leans into emotional atmosphere and prestige-cinema sensibilities.

You, Me & Tuscany

12 May 2026 | Apple TV+
Watch here

Romance and travel collide in this picturesque relationship drama set against the landscapes of rural Italy. The film embraces escapist charm, scenic cinematography and heartfelt emotional storytelling.

Good Omens: Season 3

13 May 2026 | Prime Video
Watch here

The beloved fantasy-comedy series returns with more celestial chaos, witty dialogue and supernatural misadventures. The chemistry between its central characters remains a major draw for longtime audiences.

Off Campus: Season 1

13 May 2026 | Prime Video
Watch here

This coming-of-age comedy-drama explores university life, friendship and romantic complications through energetic ensemble storytelling. Its youthful tone and relatable character dynamics aim squarely at binge-watch audiences.

The Punisher: One Last Kill

13 May 2026 | Disney+
Watch here

Marvel’s vigilante antihero returns for a darker, more violent standalone story focused on revenge, moral conflict and brutal action. The project continues the franchise’s grounded and hard-edged tone.