July

What’s On: Corporate Boxing comes to the Ivy Ballroom

On the 19th of July, 20 white-collar boxers form around Sydney will step into the ring after 12 weeks of intensive training. They will be battling to help raise money for the Miracle Babies Foundation – a charity that helps premature babies and their families with the challenges presented when a baby arrives into the world prematurely.

The Miracle Babies Foundation is a great cause, founded and run by an awesome group of mums and helping over 40,000 families a year!

It looks set to be a great night out with your colleagues or your mates!

Standard tickets for the event are $200 (12 per table) – and include:

- Entrance to the Black-Tie event at Ivy Ballroom
- Entrance to the after-party at Ivy Pool Bar
- 3 course meal
- Drinks for the evening

Doors open at 7pm and Tickets are selling fast so get in quick and secure your tickets a fantastic evening of entertainment and get behind a fantastic cause!

Please direct all ticket enquires to sydneysocial101@hotmail.com

What’s On: REKORDERLIG CIDER BRINGS ‘EFTER SKI’ TO THREDBO

Rekorderlig Cider are excited to announce a brand new winter experience with the 2013 launch of ‘Efter Ski’ at Thredbo Alpine Village during the ski season from 8th June until 8th September 2013.
Aligning themselves with the Thredbo Alpine Hotel, Beautifully Swedish Rekorderlig Cider are putting a Scandinavian spin on Australia’s premium ski slopes to bring you ‘Efter Ski’ – the Swedish term for après-ski. Located in the heart of Thredbo Village, the Alpine Hotel is the ultimate venue to host Rekorderlig Cider’s après-ski inspired activation, creating an enticing, fun and unique ski experience for all.

Rekorderlig’s warm Winter Cider will be served at Thredbo throughout the ski season. The delicious delights of Rekorderlig Winter Cider is created with a blend of fresh apples and infused with tasty vanilla and warm cinnamon spice, the premium imported Cider is perfect to be served heated ‘warm mulled-wine’ style. Guests will also be able to purchase warm cinnamon scrolls to accompany the hot serve cider, a tempting treat to enjoy after a day on the slopes. The Rekorderlig Winter Cider serve is the perfect way to wind down after hitting the slopes and warm up for the rest of the night’s festivities.

Après-ski is as important as the skiing itself and Rekorderlig Cider will provide the finest of these experiences. The Alpine Hotel pool will be a striking central focus during ‘Efter Ski’, heated throughout the week to mimic the Scandinavian natural springs with guests having the rare opportunity to swim, relax and chill out by the remarkable heated pool at the base of the ski slopes.

Thredbo attendees are encouraged to bring their swimmers and board shorts and Rekorderlig will be supplying the towels for consumers to make the most of this one of a kind Winter Hot Pool.

Rekorderlig Cider will also host memorable Beautifully Swedish Hot Pool Parties during the weekends, creating the ultimate winter pool party destination and unique winter party atmosphere.

DJ’s from top Sydney clubs will be on hand playing beats alongside the Alpine Hotel pool, no doubt making these extraordinary Thredbo parties talked about, shared and remembered as the place to be this winter. The Beautifully Swedish Hot Pool Parties will run each Saturday from approximately 2pm – 7pm.

The Beautifully Swedish theme continues throughout the Thredbo Alpine Hotel and board shorts will be given away with the purchase of a warm Rekorderlig Winter Cider during the ‘Efter Ski’ season.

Rekorderlig will also be distributing a flavoured lip balm to skiers and snowboarders on Saturdays, soothing dry lips with the taste of vanilla. Alongside this, Winter Cider bottle shaped hand warmers will also be provided on the chair lifts, tempting all with the idea to finish the day with a Rekorderlig Winter Cider.

Rekorderlig Cider ‘Efter Ski’ will no doubt have you coming back to Thredbo for more. Rekorderlig is available in nine flavours including; traditionally refreshing Apple, Pear, Strawberry-Lime, Wild Berries, premium Apple & Blackcurrant, Mango & Raspberry, Orange-Ginger, new Passionfruit and delicious Winter Cider, all in 500ml glass bottles.

For more information visit http://www.rekorderlig.com and the Rekorderlig Facebook page http://www.Facebook.com/Rekorderlig.Cider

Sydney’s Cheap Eats 101

Feeling the purse strings tightening this month? These cheap and delicious eats will have you sorted till pay day, whilst keeping your social life in tact.

These are some of the best cheap eats you’ll find in Sydney – tried and tested by our very own food reviewer, who’s eaten her way through Sydney (Pac-man style).

We have you covered for every day of the week…

Monday

Forresters: Newly revamped with a fresh new menu that’s drool-worthy. Putting up a delicious and juicy $5 steak all day – comes with mash and gravy, just buy a drink!

336 Riley Street Surry Hills
(02) 9212 3035

The Norfolk: Does killer mini burgers for $4 each. Choose from seven mouth-watering options including Cheese Burger, Feelin O Fish, Chicken Katsu, Pork Belly, El Nino and for the vego’s – the almighty “Mac ‘N’ Cheese.”

305 Cleveland St. Surry Hills
(02) 9699 3177

The Dolphin: Do a pretty damn good Grain fed Rump steak Monday-Wednesday. Comes with your Choice of Fries or Mash, 3 Sauces + Green Salad for only $12

412 Crown Street Surry Hills
(02)9331 4800

The Passage: Serves their tender Angus Sirloin Steak with Red Wine Jus and crisp shoe string fries or only $10.

231 Victoria Street Darlinghurst NSW 2010
(02) 9358 6116

They don’t call it tight-arse Tuesday for nothing…..

The Passage: Have a massive 50% off their food menu. This includes crispy golden Zucchini Flowers stuffed with goats cheese and perfectly drizzled with truffle honey…to die for!

The Norfolk: $3 tacos madness – these are positively delish and come in beef, pork, veg, chicken, fish and duck encased in a soft tortilla, garnished with an array of fresh mex favourites and topped off with their famous chipotle mayo…yum!

Wednesday:

The Passage: Is a winner again with $4 sliders and ciders all day long.

‘The Mighty Duck’ w/ Chinese Style Peking Duck, Shallots, Cucumber and Hoisin Sauce

You can choose from the 3 standard options from the a la carte menu as well as a weekly “slider du jour.” Recent additions have included Veal Saltimbocca w/ Sweet Potato Rosti and Cheesy Polenta.

The ‘Pie Float Slider’: w/ Shepherds Pie & Mushy Peas

You can also choose from Slow-Roasted Goose w/ Chestnut Stuffing, Cassis Onion Marmalade and Horseradish Cream….drool!

Johnny Wong’s Dumpling Bar: $1 Dumpling mania. Choose from 4 tantalising options including pork, prawn gow gee, chicken and water chestnut and vegetarian. Sharing is caring so stock up!

Kinselas Building (next to The Standard and half way up the stairs towards Lo-Fi)
Level 1, 383 Bourke Street, Darlinghurst
(02) 9331 3100

The Carrington: $3 Pintxos – Individual morsels of goodness that are gone in just a couple of bites. These include a potato tortilla stack with jamon and cheese and AMAZING black paella balls. These options change each week so you’ll want to come back and try them all!

563 Bourke Street Surry Hills
(02) 9360 4714

Thursday

Hugo’s: Try its award winning pizza for only $5. The crust is perfectly waif thin with toppings that include all your traditional favourites with a chic twist. Choose from chilli prawn (personal fave), Pork Belly, Ham & Pineapple, Pepperoni and a sensational truffle mushroom one for the vegos.

1/33 Bayswater Road Potts Point
(02) 9332 1227

Don Don: A great little gem in the heart of Oxford St – serving delectable sushi hand rolls from only $2, delicious rice bowls (that come with a side of tasty U-Don soup) as well as all of your favourite Japanese cuisine all week long.

Friday

El Loco: For some fun, post drinking nourishment head to this local haunt – serving up tasty pockets of heaven till the wee hours. Choices include lemongrass beef, spit roasted pork, prawn, chilli marinated tofu, chicken, and (for those who are feeling extra courageous after a few beverages) “The Secret Taco.”

Excelsior Hotel
64 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills
(02) 9211 4945

Chat Thai: All your authentic Thai favourites and cheap as chips! Top picks include Pad Si Ew. and Emerald Duck. They also have an insane selection of Thai deserts that come in all sorts of colours, textures and flavours, including do-nut fingers with Pandan custard dip and Mango sticky rice. Open till 2am for those looking for a late night fix.

They also won the SMH Everyday Eats Overall Champion Award this year! They have a more upmarket offering at Westfield Pitt Street Mall, they also really push for the affordable food angle!

In addition to this branch, they also have a branch on Manly Wharf, so you can even get your Chat Thai fix at the beach! It used to be a take-away bar, but now is a fully fledged restaurant with about 50 seats and should receive its liquor licence in mid-December! Woop!

20 Campbell Street, Haymarket (02) 9211 180

So this is the first of many ‘ Cheap Eats’ posts for Sydney Social 101! If you have any specific suburb requests, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!

This post was compiled by Sydney Social 101′s roving food reporter, Sasha Tsibulya.

A Weekend Away to Melbourne – Review

Last weekend I had the ultimate pleasure of heading to Melbourne. Whilst I am a Sydneysider through and through, I felt it was only fair to provide an insight into the city that is Melbourne.

Having been to Melbourne when I first arrived in Australia, I have very fond memories – I stayed in St Kilda in a Hostel, the name escapes me, very cool roof top terrace! I did what any self respecting Brit does and headed to the Neighbours night and met my idol (Disclaimer: he isn’t actually my idol) Karl Kennedy and got told I looked hot by the cute dude that played Ned Parker – Result. I also remember being in awe of a little takeaway establishment called Cone Heads – Think hot chips and ANYTHING you like – I opted for cheese and gravy – yuuuummmm! Then off I headed on a Groovy Grape Tour of the Great Ocean Road en-route to Adelaide and kangaroo Island….

This trip however was to be very different, no better or worse, just catered to a slightly different demographic. For the young professionals that are looking to escape Sydney for the weekend, or the travelers that want a cultured weekend away, Melbourne is your gal!

I often have referred to Melbourne as the personality and Sydney as the beauty, which I still stand-by – but don’t be disheartened to think that Melbourne isn’t stunning in its own unique way! Instead of beaches and Sydney Harbour, there’s hidden little laneways, delicious eateries and enough museums and art galleries to shake a stick at!

I was treated by the lovely team at Vibe Hotels to a complimentary night at their Vibe Savoy Hotel – Perfect location, next to Southern Cross Station and walking distance to shops, the bars and South Bank.

In addition to the accommodation and breakfast, Vibe Hotels also treated me to trial Look Polished @ Vibe* accommodation package which  features four limited edition travel sized nail polishes that will see women pampered across Vibe’s seven sensational locations.

From just $199*, the Look Polished @ Vibe package includes:

• Overnight accommodation for two adults in a vibe-rant guest room
• One set of four mini Vibe nail polishes in this season’s hottest colors – I particularly like the Refresh-Mint colour – bang on trend for pastels this SS 2012, 2013.
• A delicious full buffet breakfast for two at curve cafe  – (Which is YUM, I actually has four plates!)
• Late check-out at noon to catch up on beauty sleep

So we had the accommodation sorted which was the first step and helped us out greatly. Next stop – itinerary!

There is honestly so much to do in Melbourne, so-much-so that I would recommend asking family and friends and researching (on blogs such as this – check!) where the popular venues are and the hidden gems are located off the beaten track! Now I know everyone has their own tastes and interests,  so I’ve just provided a number of venues/ activities that I really think will suit most tastes – If you like good atmosphere, reasonable prices and yummy food and beverages – you can’t really go wrong!

SIGLO - Located at Rooftop, 162 Spring Street, Melbourne

First stop after we freshened up at the Vibe Savoy, we headed to Siglo to meet our friends (we were there to surprise our mate for his 30^th!). It’s located on the roof top of the Supper Club, which is another venue you simply must frequent – opulent leather interior with deep mahogany furnishings, it’s the perfect venue for pre dinner aperitifs or to head to after a large meal for a quiet digestive (of the drink variety, not the biscuit!). Siglo is a Cigar Lounge and Cocktail Bar, which looks over Parliament House.

I’d head to Siglos if you want deep conversation with friends along with tasty cocktails and a great atmosphere! (Note: If you don’t like cigars or smoke, it is probably not the place for you, or get in early to sit inside!)

We stayed at Siglo until the wee early hours, about 2am and then decided it would be a great idea to head to China Town for midnight dumplings (as you do).

CHINA TOWN

China Town is located just around the corner from Spring Street and connects all the various hubs of the city, there’s Karaoke and restaurants on every corner and it’s surprisingly lively at 2am on a Friday night.

Little Bourke St is where most of the restaurants are but it’s worth exploring the laneways that run off it for some interesting alternatives that are less well known.

Top (cheap) eateries include:

• Hutong Dumpling Bar – 14-16 Market Ln, Melbourne
• Shanghai Dumplings – Gnd & Flr1, 23 Tattersalls Lane, Melbourne
• Supper Inn – Level 1, 15-17 Celestial Ave, Melbourne
• The Flower Drum – 17 Market La., Melbourne (Is a bit more exy but def worth it!)

After China Town we headed home for some much needed sleep!

On Saturday we had a busy itinerary planned as we didn’t want to miss out on ANYTHING! So after our delicious breakfast we headed to meet the rest of the group.

Curtain Bar’s Rooftop Bar – Located at Level 7, Curtin House, 252 Swanston St, Melbourne

In addition to being a roof top bar, it’s also a cinema – V cool! As we headed up to the 7^th floor we were greeted by astro-turfed floor and bright colour furniture and… sangria! Ole! My favourite!

The bar has amazing views of Melbourne and definitely has a great atmosphere that isn’t at all pretentious!

MADAME BRUSSELS - Level 3, 59-63 Bourke St, Melbourne

Ahhh the lovely and quaint Madame Brussels, if you’re looking for cute cupcakes, tasty cocktails, little snacks (think sausage rolls) this is the place for you!

The whole place I feel channels Alice in Wonderland with the bright colours and fairytale feel!

Three Little Birds on Madame Brussell’s roof top

It is a must-see when in Melbourne!

Next up…

CHILL ON - Southgate Complex/Building Mid Level MR6, 3 Southgate Ave Southbank 3006

I was approached by the PR company to experience Chill On, Melbourne’s very own bar made of ice! You can enjoy a cocktail (included in the $30 cost for 30 mins, along with the warm clothing) in minus 15 degrees C temperatures and surrounded by ice sculptures. It is a cool (pardon the pun) experience that you wouldn’t expect from Melbourne!

Following a day of bar hopping and more than a few drinks, we had a reservation at 9pm, so we headed back to the Vibe Savoy to get ready for an evening of amazing food, wine and company!

HELL OF THE NORTH – Located at 135 Greeves Street, Fitzroy, Melbourne

Ahhh where to begin, just stunning, food is amazing, service is even better and the decor is perfect!

Image taken from: http://www.hellofthenorth.com.au/gallery.html All rights reserved

You can’t miss the gigantic yellow door as you approach the venue! A you enter you’re welcomed into an inviting bar, its comfortable seating and the intoxicating smell of the food greets you!

Image taken from: http://www.hellofthenorth.com.au/gallery.html All rights reserved

We had the private dining room booked for our friend’s 30^th, there were 12 of us in total! It was the perfect size! We all had the set menu which was $75 each, which consisted of about seven courses!

Whilst it may sound expensive, for what you get and the quality of the food, it is second to none! The French inspired menu will have you salivating before you’ve even popped your napkin on your lap. A few examples of the food are:

• Cured meats with bread, pate and pickles
• Cheese platter
• Beef tartan
• Braised Beef
• Grilled fish
• Crepe Suzette

Image taken from: http://www.hellofthenorth.com.au/gallery.html All rights reserved

To name a few! I can’t recommend Hell of the North highly enough! (Also we had 12 bottles of wine between 12 of us and the bill ended up $115 each – a complete bargain!).

We stayed until about 1am drinking wine and putting the world to right!

After a night of well rested sleep we headed out for breakfast, to the place the ultimate place in Melbourne for hidden gems – Degraves Street! An endless laneway of cute little cafes and eateries that serve pastries, coffee, breakfast lunch, wraps, pasta – the list is endless. It gets quite busy there so it’s more a case of looking for a cafe that has a seat rather than going on recommendation, as they’re all fab!

Suffice to say, my weekend in Melbourne was all I expected and more! If you’re looking to get out of

Sydney or you’re pulling together an itinerary for your time in Australia – I urge you to head to

Melbourne – You will not be disappointed!

The Look Polished @ Vibe Package is available at all Vibe Hotels, located across Sydney (Sydney,

Rushcutters Bay and North Sydney), Melbourne (Melbourne and Carlton), the Gold Coast and Darwin.

To book (best online rates guaranteed) visit vibehotels.com.au or call 13 VIBE (8423).

* Package starts from $199. Rates may vary between hotels. Subject to availability. Package includes overnight accommodation for two adults in a guest room. One mini Vibe nail polish sets per booking only. Bookings from 13/3/2012 – 30/9/2012 for stays from 1/4/2012 – 30/9/2012.

SOCIAL SPY** Sydney International Spa & Beauty Expo – Pre-expo media event – FiftyFour Park St Day Spa

Last week the Sydney International Spa & Beauty Expo hosted their first pre-expo media event at the beautiful FiftyFour Park St Day Spa, where media mingled with expo artists and contributors over morning tea and a little bit of pampering!

Guests and media were welcomed down the stairs at FiftyFour Park St Day Spa, to a gorgeous space overlooking the spa’s brilliant underground pool. Media enjoyed a morning tea of macaroons, cupcakes and champagne as they mingled in the beautiful surrounds.

Julia Erben, Event Director of the Sydney International Spa & Beauty Expo (11 & 12 August) opened the event by welcoming guests and thanking them for their ongoing support, “as some of our greatest supporters we wanted to celebrate with you, and give you the opportunity for individual conversations with our artists and contributors”.

Erben’s first year as Director of the expo has positioned it as the driving force of this fascinating and dynamic industry, inspiring every salon and spa professional to prepare for the growing trends and demands. She then went on to explain the background of the expo, which offers the biggest spa and beauty event in Australia with all the latest products, treatments and equipment from the nation’s largest gathering of suppliers – with an expected 10 000 professionals to visit over the 2 days.

The pre-expo event then shed light on key expo artists and contributors. Mia Cassin, Media Manager of True Solutions represented the exhibitors on show at the expo, Melinda O’Rourke; Director of MO Luxury represented the Business Leaders Summit as one of its key speakers, Megan Armfield; Senior Makeup Artist at Becca Cosmetics, one of the expo’s main stage stars, Brow Artist Jazz Pampling who has two brow shaping seminars at the expo and Nail Competition Coordinator Tracy Boyle who will bring her international nail industry expertise this years awards.

Julia invited Mia Cassin to speak about the diversity of current consumer demands and how different products can help spas cater to this. “Savvy spas are on the forefront of business by using certain brands that show they are industry leaders, not followers” Mia explained, before stating that the expo is a proven success for them, “it changes our business by getting us to our clients.”

Melinda O’Rouke, with a background as Country Manager of Prada and Chanel, was then invited to speak about creating true value, making a focus on differentiating yourself through your customer service and how this is a universal challenge.

Guests and media were then invited to enjoy a morning of pampering with a buff & polish and arm massages from the FiftyFour Park St Spa Staff using True Solutions product, eye brow shaping and advice from Jazz, makeup touchups and tips with Megan while Tracey Boyle showed a Gel Nail Polish demo with Competition Entrant Julie Dovolis.

The doors open this weekend to the Sydney International Spa & Beauty Expo on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 August. Register for the industry’s most pivotal event at www.internationalbeautyexpo.com.au

Keep up to date with the latest news on facebook.com/SydneyInternationalSpaAndBeautyExpo

Say hello on Twitter.com/SpaBeautyExpo

SOCIAL SPY** SUNSENSE BEAUTY BREAKFAST AT PIER

Tuesday 24th July – Sydney’s elite beauty and health media gathered at top stunning eatery, Pier Restaurant in Rose Bay to enjoy an intimate breakfast to launch SunSense’s SunSensibility project.

As the beauty media sat down to enjoy the culinary delights from Pier’s exectuvie chef, Greg Doyle they were treated to a presentation from SunSense’s ambassador, Carrie Bickmore (love her!) and Dr Kerryn Greive PhD (Head of Research and Development, Ego Pharmaceuticals). Why were they there I hear you cry?

To talk more about the SunSense SunSensibility initiative! Which is a community health education project now in its second year, which aims to illustrate the importance or protecting your skin against the sun’s harmful UV rays (and what happens if you don’t!).

Carrie and Kerryn discussed the SunSense UV Photobus, what it is and what it will be doing!

They explained that the mobile skin analysis centre – or SunSense UV Photobus -  will tour the country providing free UV skin analyses and personalised sun protection advice to all Aussies in a bid to education about hidden UV damage and the greater concern of skin cancer.

In addition to the ‘science bit‘ the beauty media were also treating to previews of the product range, which includes sun protection, after sun and a tanning range, all made in Australia for our Australain lifestyle. The SunSense Bronze Shield SPF 30+ is a personal fave of mine!

There will be more about the SunSense UV Photobus Tour to follow nearer the time, however in the meantime, here’s some shots from the event:

Leigh Campbell & Stephanie Darling

Kate Martlew & Yelena Fairfax

Katrina Lawrence & Yasemin Trollope

Laura Lock & Melissa Mason

Pier

The SunSense product range – Including my fave – Bronze Shield

The lady herself: Carrie Bickmore, SunSense Ambassador

The Dark Knight Rises REVIEW**(Spoilers… Possibly!)

It was seven years ago that Christopher Nolan brought Batman back to the big screen with its dark tones. Well the trilogy has finally come full circle with many fans wondering how it will end.
To be honest I went to the cinema feeling like I had seen most of the film. I have never seen so many trailers before the release of a film (that practically gave away EVERYTHING!) and was concerned that it would have ruined my enjoyment. The big scene where the American Football pitch crumbles under the player’s feet was incredible sight to watch. The fact that I had seen it 10 times previously didn’t give me the same shock value when watching the film in its entirety. I know that they have to draw in the crowd, but surely Batman can draw a crowd of its own without too many spoilers.

Now I have seen a lot of talk on Facebook etc on how people do not want this final film spoilt for them, so I will keep the details short (as I’m nice like that!).

Now to the plot: Batman is in hiding after being blamed for the death of Harvey Dent, aka Two-Face, and Bruce Wayne is in hiding due to the depression of losing his only love: Rachel Dawes. Meanwhile a new terrorist, Bane, is starting to attack the city. As Wayne quickly realises through a series of events, this may have a connection to himself, in the dawning realisation he decides that it’s time to dust off the trusty cape and get back in to action.

The opening scene doesn’t disappoint and is exactly what you expect from Christopher Nolan. It is an exciting way to introduce the main antagonist is Bane played by Tom Hardy (calm down ladies!). Comic books fans will know Bane as having an influential part in the Batman’s history. However unlike the way he is depicted in the comics he is not addicted to venom to help him gain his strength.

I feel that unless you are a true fan, I don’t think this is missed from the film in terms of plot. Tom Hardy had to gain 30 pounds for this role to turn in to the huge monster. Tom had a lot to live up to following the late Heath Ledger and his incredible portrayal of the Joker. I am glad to say that he did a great job showing Bane’s brutish strength and merciless ways, though I did think the choice of voice for the character was a bit of an odd one at first.

As with every superhero film everyone is interested in the bad guys or girls!! Dark Knight Rises brings back one of Batman’s most well known villains: Catwoman. This time played by Anne Hathaway. I am pleased to say that she plays a very different version to the character portrayed in Batman Returns’ Michelle Pfeiffer. Anne brings a bit of glamour to the role and is a great edition as you never know whose side she is on. Funny thing is you never hear the name Catwoman throughout the film.

I have always thought Christian Bale was a fantastic Bruce Wayne and for the final time he doesn’t disappoint. He is very believable as he goes through all of Bruce’s struggles (and there are many). I do think he is Bruce a lot more than Batman in this one. Batman brings an with him an exciting set of new toys such as his motorcycle and The Bat!!!!

Marion Cotillard and Joseph Gordon-Levitt are welcome members to the cast. Both of them will put a smile on your face for their own reasons but I will let you find that out.

The usual suspects of the characters Michael Caine (Alfred), Gary Oldman (Commissioner Gordon) and Morgan Freeman (Lucius Fox) complete the cast and all play their parts as you would expect of actors of their stature.

With Avengers having done so well and Superman around the corner, I do hope that the talks of the DC’s Justice League will see it come to the big screen.

It is a shame that Dark Knight Rises will always be associated with the tragic shooting in America. All our wishes go out to friends and family of those involved.

Sydneysocial101 gives Dark Knight Rises 9/10.

Dark Knight Rises’ review was written by resident ‘bloke’ reviewer: Syrus Wynne.

THE DARK KNIGHT RISES NUMBER ONE AT THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE

Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Legendary Pictures’ The Dark Knight Rises has burst into cinemas, grossing in excess of $3.5 million in its first day on screens, making it the number one movie in the country.

It really is amazing and Sydney Social 101′s review will go live this weekend!

The Dark Knight Rises is the epic conclusion to filmmaker Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy. Leading an all-star international cast, Oscar® winner Christian Bale (“The Fighter”) again plays the dual role of Bruce Wayne/Batman. “The Dark Knight Rises” also stars Anne Hathaway, as Selina Kyle; Tom Hardy, as Bane; Oscar® winner Marion Cotillard (“La Vie en Rose”), as Miranda Tate; and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, as John Blake. Returning to the main cast, Oscar® winner Michael Caine (“The Cider House Rules”) plays Alfred; Gary Oldman is Commissioner Gordon; and Oscar® winner Morgan Freeman (“Million Dollar Baby”) reprises the role of Lucius Fox.

The screenplay is written by Jonathan Nolan and Christopher Nolan, story by Christopher Nolan & David S. Goyer. The film is produced by Emma Thomas, Christopher Nolan and Charles Roven, who previously teamed on “Batman Begins” and the record-breaking blockbuster “The Dark Knight.” The executive producers are Benjamin Melniker, Michael E. Uslan, Kevin De La Noy and Thomas Tull, with Jordan Goldberg serving as co-producer. The film is based upon characters created by Bob Kane and published by DC Comics.

Warner Bros. Pictures presents, in association with Legendary Pictures, a Syncopy Production, a Film by Christopher Nolan, “The Dark Knight Rises.” Opening in theatres and IMAX, the film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

THE DARK KNIGHT RISES released in Australian cinemas and IMAX nationally on Thursday the 19th of July -rated M

http://www.the-dark-knight-rises.com

“Not only does Nolan, as you say, hit the ball right out of the park, he smacks the thing right out of this world” And “Your jaw will have already bought a one-way ticket to the floor…5 stars”. Leigh Paatsch- Daily Telegraph

“There is only one way to describe The Dark Knight Rises- EPIC. Both Nolan and Bale say it is their last hurrah in the batman world and, if so, it’s a fitting send-off. 4 ½ Stars.” James Wigney – Herald Sun

“One of the greatest trilogies in motion picture history” And “A visual feast that continues to roar off the screen 4.5 stars”. Richard Wilkins – Today Show

“The Dark Knight Rises is a suitably impressive and ambitious conclusion to Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy” Philippa Hawker – The Age

“One of the best action/comic book movies I have ever seen” Didier Cohen – The Kyle and Jackie O Show

“The emotional conclusion of The Dark Knight Trilogy ties up all loose ends and finishes on a pedestal so high, nothing could top it. 10 out of 10” James Gorman – Ninetofive Magazine

Sneak Peek Of The Dark Knight Rises Costumes!

SOCIAL SPY** The Dark Knight Rises Black Carpet Exclusive!

Sydney Social 101 Snapped And Caught Up With Some Of Australia’s Finest Stars…

So it’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for – the last instalment of Christopher Nolan’s epic Batman franchise. It’s been dubbed one of the hottest new flicks of the year, so Sydney Social 101 decided to catch up with some of Australia’s most talented celebs at the premiere of The Dark Knight Rises!

Well it’s a Batman film – so black carpet and bat masks were a necessity for the exclusive bash at Sydney’s Darling Harbour Imax theatre!

First up to take to the carpet was Conrad Coleby, who is best known for playing Roman in Home & Away.

Conrad Coleby, who is best known for playing Roman in Home & Away

“I love the Batman movies,” Conrad told the buzzing media as they took pictures of him before he went in for the official screening.

“But I have to admit that of all the Marvel Comic characters, Spiderman is definitely my favourite!” he added.

Following him was Underbelly star Les Hill, who looked dashing and even ditched his clean shaved look!

Les Hill

Next up, was presenter David Koch, fondly known to Australian’s as Kochie.

Koche – “I love batman!”

“I love Batman, what’s there not to love about him,” he gushed to Sydney Social 101.

The highly anticipated new movie features many heartthrobs such as Christian Bale, Tom Hardy and Joseph Gordon-Levitt! So it’s only fitting to have a hottie to attend the Aussie premiere  - none other that hunky model Didier Cohen!

HOT DAMN!

“I love Tom Hardy,” the Celebrity Apprentice Australia star revealed. “That’s why I came tonight.”

Meanwhile, model Annalise Braakensiek, looked gorgeous in little black number and sparkly clutch bag.

Annalise Braakensiek looking stunning in black

“I hear it’s going to be amazing,” she said excitedly.

And the new flick introduces Cat Woman, played by Anne Hathaway! So MTV’s new VJ Kate Peck decided to bring some of her feline style along by wearing a sexy black leather outfit and even put on a mask!

MTV’s new VJ Kate Peck

Talk about getting into character!

It seems as though the action went to Kate’s head a little as she affectionately pretended to ‘cat fight’ former Hot30 Countdown radio host Maude Garrett!

Kate Peck and Hot30 Countdown radio host Maude Garrett

And that’s not all the action on the black carpet – Michael Goldman provided some of his own stunts by lifting his friend in the air!

Yes, we’ve really seen it all!

But brining back the sophistication Emma Lung rocked in her black dress and stylish classic fringe.

Stunning Emma Lung

And following her was Beautiful Kate actress Sophie Lowe, who revealed that she absolutely loves Cat Woman for a very special reason,

Beautiful Kate actress Sophie Lowe

“I’m mad about cats!” she admits. “So she’s my favourite.”

Don’t miss all the action when The Dark Knight Rises hits cinemas on July 19 across Australia!

Sydney Social’s 101 reporter Jennifer Fletcher was at the Black Carpet to report and take pictures at the star-studded premiere.

Stay tuned for Sydney Social 101′s review of the Dark Knight Rises – You won’t be dissapointed!