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Harrison Ford is back as an 80-year-old Indiana Jones – and a 40-something Indy. The highs (and lows) of returning to iconic roles

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ben-mccann-398197">Ben McCann</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-adelaide-1119">University of Adelaide</a> Saddle up, don the fedora and crack that whip: Harrison Ford is back as the intrepid archaeologist in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. The film premiered at Cannes, where Ford was <a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/harrison-ford-honorary-palme-dor-cannes-1235495463/">awarded</a> an Honorary Palme d’Or in recognition of his life’s work. Reviews for the fifth film in the franchise <a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/indiana-jones-5-review-roundup-1235495961/">have been mixed</a>, and it is the first Indy film not to be directed by Steven Spielberg (this time, it’s James Mangold, best known for his motor-racing drama Ford v Ferrari). But this is “event” cinema that combines nostalgia, old-school special effects and John Williams’ <a href="https://theconversation.com/from-jaws-to-star-wars-to-harry-potter-john-williams-90-today-is-our-greatest-living-composer-176245">iconic score</a>. So, Ford is back, aged 80. What draws actors back after all this time? <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eQfMbSe7F2g?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <h2>Role returns</h2> Ford first played Indy in 1981 and last played him in 2008. That is a full 15 years since the most recent film in the series, and 42 years since his first outing in Raiders of the Lost Ark. Ford has form in returning to celebrated characters. One of the great pleasures of watching The Force Awakens back in 2015 was seeing Ford play Han Solo again for the <a href="https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x3j2j09">first time in over 30 years</a>. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0xQSIdSRlAk?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> Actors return to roles for numerous reasons: <ul> <li>financial (Ford was reportedly paid <a href="https://okmagazine.com/exclusives/harrison-ford-paid-indiana-jones-5-plagued-with-problems/">US$25 million</a> for Dial of Destiny)</li> <li>protection of their brand, image and star persona (Michael Keaton <a href="https://www.fortressofsolitude.co.za/the-flash-movies-biggest-hero-how-michael-keaton-saved-the-film/">returning to play Batman</a> after three decades and three other actors who have embodied the role)</li> <li>professional (Tom Cruise admitted over the 36 years between Top Gun films he wanted to make sure the sequel <a href="https://screenrant.com/top-gun-maverick-tom-cruise-return-how-explained/">could live up to the original</a>)</li> <li>personal (once-huge stars are working less and less, and only feel the need to return to a built-in fan base every few years – Bill Murray in the 2021 Ghostbusters sequel springs to mind).</li> </ul> It’s not always a successful endeavour. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone – two of the biggest action stars of the 1980s off the back of iconic roles as The Terminator, Rocky Balboa and John Rambo – have repeatedly returned to those roles, and critics have been <a href="https://screenrant.com/terminator-dark-fate-undermined-john-connor-storyline-franchise-bad/">particularly harsh</a>. It did not work for Sigourney Weaver in <a href="https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/alien-resurrection-1997">Alien: Resurrection</a> in 1997, 18 years after her first time as Ripley; nor for Keanu Reeves in <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/film/2021/dec/21/the-matrix-resurrections-review-keanu-reeves">The Matrix Resurrections</a> in 2021, 23 years after the original. And still, I’m intrigued to see what Michael Mann could do with his long-rumoured sequel to Heat, his definitive 1995 crime film. Ever since Mann published his novel Heat 2 last year – a kind of origin story for Heat’s key protagonists – fans have been hoping a de-aged Al Pacino (now aged 83) <a href="https://deadline.com/2023/04/michael-mann-heat-2-warner-bros-adam-driver-young-neil-mccauley-1235316777/">might return</a> as LA cop Vincent Hanna. <h2>Undoing time</h2> “Digital de-ageing” first entered the Hollywood mainstream in 2019 with The Irishman and Captain Marvel. <a href="https://www.indiewire.com/features/craft/de-aging-actors-history-benjamin-button-dial-of-destiny-harrison-ford-1234863938/">Via this process</a>, older actors (Robert De Niro, Al Pacino and Samuel L. Jackson have all been subject to the technology) move back and forwards in time without younger actors having to play them. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OF-lElIlZM0?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> Films still tend to cast two actors to play older and younger versions of the same character, a choice that dates back at least to 1974’s The Godfather Part II, in which a young Robert de Niro plays Vito Corleone, portrayed by the much older Marlon Brando in the first film. In 1989, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade features a delightful opening scene where River Phoenix plays the young version of Indiana Jones, before Ford takes over for the rest of the film. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AwH6-Yh7_SM?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> Actors used to just play characters of their own age when reprising earlier roles. Paul Newman finally won a Best Actor Oscar for his role as “Fast Eddie” Felson in The Color of Money (1986), a quarter of a century after first playing him in The Hustler. The sequel plays on Newman’s age, and his role as a mentor to an upcoming Tom Cruise, and bathes viewers in nostalgia and memories of <a href="https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/paul-newman-schooled-tom-cruise-the-color-of-money/">a younger Newman</a>. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k7gmrKAFshE?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> But actors no longer have to exclusively play their age. The first part of Dial of Destiny is an extended flashback, set in 1944, in which Ford has been digitally de-aged to appear in his 40s. This process used an AI system that scanned used and unused reels of footage of Ford from <a href="https://www.cbr.com/harrison-ford-de-aging-indiana-jones-dial-of-destiny/">the first three Indy films</a> to match his present-day performance. Here, it is as if we are getting two Fords for the price of one: the “younger”, fitter Indy and the older, more world-weary version. It makes for a powerfully emotional connection on screen. Yet there are some <a href="https://variety.com/2023/film/awards/indiana-jones-5-harrison-ford-de-aging-not-working-1235618698/">pitfalls to de-ageing</a>. Some viewers complain that the whole process is distracting and that the hyper-real visual look of de-aged scenes resembles a video game. Even so, de-ageing in Hollywood cinema is here to stay. Tom Hanks’s <a href="https://variety.com/2023/film/news/tom-hanks-robin-wright-digitally-deaged-robert-zemeckis-movie-1235507766/">next film</a> is using AI-based generative technology to digitally de-age him. Given its reduced cost, speed and reduced human input, AI-driven innovation might have <a href="https://filmstories.co.uk/news/new-ai-driven-de-ageing-tools-to-be-used-in-tom-hanks-project/">industry-changing ramifications</a>. <h2>The star of Ford</h2> Harrison Ford remains a bona fide “movie star” in an industry profoundly buffeted by COVID, the rise of streaming platforms, the demise of the monoculture, and the changing nature of who constitutes a star. In the midst of all this industry uncertainty, it seems there is no longer a statute of limitations on actors returning to much-loved characters. The next big ethical issue for the film industry as it further embraces AI is whether to <a href="https://collider.com/james-dean-digital-cgi-performance-in-new-movie/">resurrect deceased actors</a> and cast them in new movies. Still, I’m looking forward to seeing more actors de-aged as the technology improves and audiences acclimatise to watching older actors “playing” younger versions of themselves. We are only at the start of Hollywood’s next big adventure.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/202357/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ben-mccann-398197">Ben McCann</a>, Associate Professor of French Studies, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-adelaide-1119">University of Adelaide</a> Image credits: Getty Images This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/harrison-ford-is-back-as-an-80-year-old-indiana-jones-and-a-40-something-indy-the-highs-and-lows-of-returning-to-iconic-roles-202357">original article</a>.

Movies

“It means the world to me”: Harrison Ford’s emotional take on final Indiana Jones film

Harrison Ford, the actor best known as the face and heart of some of Hollywood’s most iconic characters, has opened up about his final appearance as Indiana Jones. In an interview with BBC Radio 1 with his Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny co-star Phoebe Waller-Bridge about their upcoming film, the 80-year-old actor confessed that his time spent as Jones, and the love of his fans all around the world, means everything to him. Ford has been portraying Jones since 1981, when the series' first film, Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark, was released. And while they all might hold a special place in his heart, it’s his fifth and final film - set to release June 2023 - as Jones that has resonated with him. As he told host Ali Plumb, “I think the thing that I most admire about them is the depth and subtlety of the emotion, and the importance of emotion in these films. “As this last one concerns age and frailty and [the] changing nature of life, it was especially compelling to me, because I am of that age and I wanted it to feel real for the audience. “I wanted them to see the complexity of that experience with someone they've spent 40 years with.” Plumb then took the opportunity to tell an emotional Ford that “it’s been such an adventure”, and thanked him on behalf of fans all over for everything he’d put into the character and his various adventures. “We love you so much,” he added. “I don’t want to make you blush or anything, but you mean the world to us and thank you.” Ford appeared moved by the sentiment, but gathered himself to offer his own sincere thanks to his supporters, before sharing that “it means the world to me.” It isn’t the first time that Ford has addressed his final venture in Jones’ hat - though it’s the first not to be directed by Steven Spielberg - or what it means to him, with the star previously having shared with Told Film that he had been “able to deliver amazing films developed by Steven and George [Lucas] over a 40-year period. “And to end it not with a whimper, but a bang, has been my greatest ambition for this excursion.” Images: BBC Radio 1 / Youtube

Movies

To the Manor Born star passes away

The family of Angela Thorne has paid tribute to the veteran actress who passed away on June 16 at age 84. Thorne is best known for her role in the British sitcom, To the Manor Born. The actress is also the mother of the actor Rupert Penry-Jones. Rupert Penry-Jones said in a statement, "The actress Angela Thorne died peacefully at her home on the 16th of June. She was 84 years old. "She was the beloved wife of Peter Penry-Jones and is survived by her two sons Rupert and Laurie Penry-Jones and her grandchildren, Florence, Peter, Giorgio and Delilah. We will all miss her very much.” Thorne played Marjory Frobisher in the BBC sitcom, To the Manor Born, with other Hollywood greats Penelope Keith and Richard DeVere from 1978 to 1981. She was nominated for an Oliver Award for her portrayal of Margaret Thatcher in Anyone for Denis? The actress also voiced the Queen of England in the 1989 film adaptation of Roald Dahl’s The BFG. However, it was her role as Marjory Frobisher that gripped fans. Thorne reprised the role twice, one for a 10-episode radio series in 1997 and once more in 2007 for a one-episode Christmas special on TV. Fans of the actress are remembering her on Twitter as a “sitcom legend”. "RIP Angela Thorne, ACT past Chair of 15 years' service, wise champion of actor-parents' needs, and devoted to the elderly actors at @DenvilleHall. It was a joy and a privilege to work with you," a trust that worked with Thorne wrote. "Ah, Angela Thorne has died. Proper sitcom legend. Farrington of the FO was much underpraised," a fan wrote. Image credit: Getty

News

Quincy Jones rushed to hospital

Legendary music producer Quincy Jones has been taken to hospital after suffering a medical emergency. The 28-time Grammy winner, 90, experienced a “bad reaction to some food he ate”, a representative of his told TMZ. "Out of an abundance of caution he called 911 for help,” the spokesperson said. Page Six reported that paramedics were called to Jones’ Los Angeles home on June 17, where they transported him to the emergency room. Jones got the all-clear from doctors and was soon released from his short stay in hospital. Jones is most famously known as the producer of Michael Jackson’s all-time best-selling record, Thriller. The 90-year-old has also worked on records with various industry icons like Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, and Rufus & Chaka Khan. Jones also produced the hit television sitcom, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, which saw actor Will Smith rise to fame. This isn’t the first health scare endured by the composer. In 1974, Jones suffered a life-threatening brain aneurysm which required rigorous operations, leaving him with six steel pins in his head. "I actually had two brain aneurysms,” Jones revealed in his 2018 documentary titled, Quincy. "So I guess I would classify as having some experience with trauma to the brain. Also, my mother suffered from mental illness," he added. Jones was also rushed to hospital in 2015 citing chest pains and shortness of breath whilst in his Bel-Air home. At the time, a spokesperson of Jones told Page Six, "Quincy is fine. He had some shortness of breath and in an abundance of caution, he went in for observation. He is fine though." Image credit: Getty

Caring

8 fictional places you can visit in real life

Step into the world of your favourite book, movie or TV show with a visit to these fictional locations that represented the original. Hogwarts, Harry Potter You won’t see anyone playing Quidditch on the lawns, but Alnwick Castle in Northumberland in the UK played Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films (with a little digital trickery thrown in). The castle has been the home of the Dukes of Northumberland for more than 700 years and is in high demand with film and TV crews – it also stars in the Downton Abbey Christmas specials. Jurassic Park The lush jungle foliage and towering waterfalls of the island of Kauai in Hawaii served as the backdrop for Stephen Spielberg’s rampaging dinosaurs in all three Jurassic Park movies. You can rent a four-wheel drive and travel through the national park where the movie was filmed though, sadly, none of the dinosaurs remained behind after shooting wrapped. West Egg, The Great Gatsby F Scott Fitzgerald modelled West Egg on Great Neck in Long Island, New York. This area on the north coast of Long Island was known as the Gold Coast because of the huge mansions, polo fields, golf courses and country clubs built there by America’s super wealthy (think Vanderbilt, Astor or Guggenheim). The very grand Oheka Castle in nearby Huntington partly inspired Gatsby’s house. Amity Island, Jaws Don’t go in the water! The beach on Amity Island was the setting for the first scene in the classic 1970s horror movie, Jaws. As well as looking the part of the perfect American seaside resort, the shallow water of the bay made it easier for the crew to operate the mechanical sharks. Hundred Acre Wood, Winnie the Pooh Just over an hour from London you can walk in the footsteps of Winnie the Pooh and Christopher Robin through Ashdown Forest. There’s only about 25 square kilometres of wooded area left from what was once a mighty forest, but it is still quintessentially English and one could almost expect Pooh, Tigger and Piglet to come bounding around a shady corner. Greenbow, Forrest Gump Life is like a box of chocolates in Varnville, South Carolina, which served as the fictional town of Greenbow in the Oscar winning movie Forrest Gump. The old Southern mansion that Forrest and his mamma lived in was a fake however, built just for production (and torn down right after), and even some of the Vietnam War scenes were shot around Varnville. Thank goodness for special effects. King’s Landing, Game of Thrones The historic Maltese capital of Mdina played the part of Kings Landing in the first series of Game of Thrones. The medieval walled city is in the centre of the island and has a population of just 300 – many of whom weren’t happy about the series. Maltese officials complained about the damage done and filming moved to Croatia for the following series. Hobbiton, The Lord of the Rings The three Lord of the Rings movies were such a smash hit that the village of Hobbiton was completely rebuilt in the original film location near Matamata in the North Island of New Zealand. You can step inside the tiny hobbit holes, visit the Green Dragon Inn and (of course) buy a souvenir at the gift shop. Images: Getty

International Travel

Most amazing animal experiences to have when travelling

These are some unbelievable opportunities around the world to get up close (really close) to your favourite wild animals. Monkey business / Viewing The orangutan is Asia’s only great ape and Borneo is one of only two places in the world that they are found. Decades of deforestation have left the Bornean orangutan seriously endangered. At the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre 60 to 80 of the great apes live on a 43 square kilometer reserve while 25 orphaned babies are rehabilitated in the nursery. Though they look perfect for cuddling, guests can’t get too close – but you can visit during the two feeding times each day and walk among the boardwalks through the forest while the orangutans swoop from the trees to eat the fruit and sugar cane left on feeding platforms around 20 metres away from you Baby elephant walk / Hands on The Asian elephant is an endangered species and Thailand is home to more Asian elephants than anywhere in the world. For a hands-on experience with these gentle giants, Patara Elephant Farm in Chiang Mai allows you to participate in their day to day caring. There are six residents elephants that are “adopted” by guests for the day and you are trained to approach the elephant, know its temperament, feed and check its health, bathe and brush it in the river, learn how to ride on its neck and communicate through spoken commands. King of the jungle / Interaction You’re generally not encouraged to get up close to really dangerous animals, but at Lion Encounter in Zambia you can walk alongside some of the eight resident lion cubs – with no fence in between. The cubs range from three to 18 months old and will happily walk through the bush with you, pounce and play with each other and, if you’re lucky, even nuzzle in for a pat. Walks are escorted by guides, scouts and lion handlers so you are never in danger. The program is part of a larger breeding program and once lions graduate from this stage they will be removed from human interaction, integrated with a pack and eventually released into the wild. A whale of a time / Interaction The might be called dwarf minke whales but at eight metres long and weighing several tonnes, they are still pretty substantial. Dwarf minkes pass through the Great Barrier Reef each winter and this is the only place in the world that you can snorkel and dive with them. The whales are very inquisitive and an experience will generally involve interacting with two to three whales for around 90 minutes. Very little is known about these huge mammals so guests are often asked to participate in ongoing research programs and record their observations or submit photos to the minke whale database. One for the bucket list / Viewing With around half of Canada’s grizzly population, British Columbia is the best place to see the bears in the wild. A number of lodges have been established inside the Great Bear Rainforest where guests can participate in guided viewing sessions from boats, getting up very close to the action. Bears can be seen fishing for salmon in rivers, feeding on berries or succulents, and (very rarely) napping in the sun. Tours run from May to October, but visit from August onwards for the best chance to see cubs. At around $1,070 per person per night these tours aren’t cheap, but they are certainly unforgettable. Image credit: Shutterstock

Travel Tips

“That is my face”: Harrison Ford takes pro-de-ageing stance

Harrison Ford has come to the defence of the de-ageing technology used in the upcoming fifth instalment in the Indiana Jones series: Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. The film drew criticism from reviewers over its application of the technology, with many wondering why the studio hadn’t opted to instead support younger actors and cast them in the role, while others simply questioned the “believability” of the tech. But Ford, who has been the face of Indiana Jones since the professor’s first film in 1981, is having none of that. During a press conference at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, the actor moved to silence critics, telling them “I know that that is my face. “It’s not a kind of Photoshop magic - that’s what I looked like 35 years ago. Because Lucasfilm has every frame of film that we’ve made together over all of these years. “This process, this scientific mining of this library, this was put to good [use] … It’s just a trick unless it’s supported by a story, and it sticks out like a sore thumb if it’s not honest, it’s not real… I mean, emotionally real. “And so I think it was used very skillfully.” And for those concerned that the 80-year-old’s take might carry across into his stance on the process of ageing itself, he was quick to note that when it comes to growing older, he is “very happy with it, but I don't look back and say, 'I wish I was that guy again,' because I don't. "I'm real happy with age. I love being older. It was great to be young, but s***fire I could be dead, and I'm still working." Despite this, Ford has confirmed that this film will be the last time fans can expect to see him in the iconic role, and he’ll be hanging up Jones’ hat for good. And when asked why, Ford’s answer was simple, with the actor confessing “I need to sit down and rest a little bit. I love to work, and I love this character, and I love what it brought into my life, and that's all I can say.” Fans of the star and the franchise have come out in support of his decision, most recently during a standing ovation at the same festival he’d spoken at - applause that had moved Ford to tears. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Harrison Ford with tears in his eyes during the standing ovation for ‘INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY’. <a href="https://t.co/mJtRv4wLKk">pic.twitter.com/mJtRv4wLKk</a> — DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) <a href="https://twitter.com/DiscussingFilm/status/1659294979485757486?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2023</a></blockquote> However, as one user pointed out, that didn’t necessarily mean smooth sailing for fans, with the fifth film likely to get them talking - de-ageing technology aside. “Oh my god. no bc if HE is crying it means the movie is really gonna be something special,” one wrote. “i'm gonna be sick”. “Thanks for the last adventure,” another said. “Surreal that this moment in cinema is here. The last time we will ever get an Indiana Jones film with Harrison Ford.” And as someone else put it, “seeing him get emotional for getting praise for a role that he loves so dearly has me emotional too.” “And there is proof Harrison Ford loves what he does,” one other declared. “A proper movie star who just wants to act. That's genuine pride.” Images: Lucas Film Ltd

Movies

Where to find free wifi when you’re travelling

Data usage overseas can be eye-wateringly expensive so if you want to stay connected with your smartphone, tablet or laptop you’ll need to hunt down a wifi hotspot. And it’s even better when it’s free. These are the most likely places where you’ll be able to log on for no charge. The food chain Most travellers do their best to steer clear of chains like Starbucks and McDonalds while travelling (and with good reason), but they almost always offer free wifi with a purchase. Grab a cup of coffee or some chicken nuggets and settle in. In smaller cafes or restaurants, look out for a sign in the window offering free wifi – many establishments in popular tourist areas will offer it in the hope of attracting more customers. In the bedroom Plenty of hotels are stubbornly sticking to their guns and charging exorbitant fees for wifi and, strangely enough, it tends to be the more expensive hotels that will hit your hip pocket. Check out the Hotel Chatter wifi Report for a list of the wifi winners, and choose brands like Ibis, Mercure, Holiday Inn, Radisson blu or Best Western for free coverage. You also want to make sure that it extends to your room and is not just available in the foyer or restaurant. Public property Libraries, shopping centres, museums and even public parks often have their own free wifi hotspots and generally just require you to accept their terms or register your email address. Some cities have gone the whole way and established municipal networks that cover the whole city. So if you’re going to Seoul, Boston, Osaka, Perth or Barcelona you’ll find hundreds of hotspots blanketing the city. Appy trails Download the wifi Finder app before you travel and you’ll never be stuck for a connection. It has a database of over 650,000 hotspots worldwide that you can download and then access without an internet connection. Your phone’s GPS will point you in the right direction. Image credit: Shutterstock

Travel Tips

All grown up! Catherine Zeta-Jones' daughter makes Cannes debut

Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas’ daughter, Carys Zeta-Jones, has made her debut at the Cannes Film Festival. The 20-year-old, who appeared alongside her parents, attended the screening for Jeanne du Barry on Tuesday. Carys stunned in a semi-sheer white gown with intricate floral detailing. She completed the look with a pair of statement diamond earrings and had her hair up in an elegant bun. Her mother, Catherine, looked glamorous in a flowy red gown with a plunging neckline which she paired with a matching dark red lip. Her father, Michael, who was awarded an honorary Palme d’Or award during the evening, looked dapper in a suit and stood centre frame as they made their glamorous entrance. The festival will also screen a previously-unreleased documentary about Michael’s life, called Michael Douglas: The Prodigal Son, as part of a tribute to his lengthy career. Carys’ appearance in the Cannes Film Festival feels like a full circle moment as it is where her parents met in 1998. The pair ended up getting married just two years later and have been considered as one of the power couples in the industry since. Images: Getty

Beauty & Style

8 ways to stretch your cruise budget

When it comes to cruising there are plenty of ways you can make you budget stretch further without have to give up on the quality of holiday you want to have. Be flexible You can snag a great deal if you’re flexible with dates and open to new destinations. Fares can fluctuate on a daily basis so, if you aren’t locked in to a certain schedule, you could grab a great last minute bargain. Plus, you might discover an amazing new destination you’d never thought of. Shop the sales The cruise industry has sales on all year round and plenty of cruise lines, travel agents, forums and cruise websites will have deals pages or newsletters you can sign up to. If you stay abreast of all the special offers that are coming out, you can be sure to grab the best one. Buy a package Dining at the main restaurants will be included in your fare, but each ship will have a few specialty restaurants that come at an extra charge. If you want to try them all, buy a package that will come at a significant discount. Same goes for alcohol. If you think you’re likely to drink a few cocktails in the afternoon and wine with dinner, buy a daily drinks package to lower the cost. Save on port days Onboard spas are expensive, often even more expensive than you would find on shore. But most ships will have specials on offer during port days when most people are off the ship. If you don’t mind missing the destination you can get a great deal. The onboard shops will often have special sales or events on port days too. Check your daily cruise calendar. Watch your tips Almost all lines will add a daily gratuity to your account, usually around $12 to 15 per person per day. You’ll also find an extra 15 to 18 per cent gratuity added to bar bills or spa treatments. That means you don’t have to tip any extra – even though they leave a space for it on the bill. You don’t want to end up tipping 30 per cent on a round of beers. Disconnect at sea Internet and phone calls are the two most expensive things on a cruise – which makes sense when you realise you’re in the middle of the ocean. Mobile roaming charges are steep and cruise ship wifi extortionate, so the best thing to do is unplug your devices. You can always find a free wifi hotspot or payphone when you’re on shore. Guide yourself Shore excursions are a great way to experience a port, but they can also be really expensive. And many of them aren’t worth the money, like beach days or city bus tours. At most places you can get a taxi to take you to the beach for a fraction of the price or find a local bus that will take you on the same route. Do a little internet research before you go and reap the rewards. Use an agent A lot of money saving tactics come from a little DIY, but using a specialist cruise travel agent can actually save you money in the long run. They will help you find the right ship, the right cruise and the right cabin, plus they will know how to take advantage of the added value extras that cruise lines always have on offer. Image credits: Shutterstock

Cruising

Harry Potter star reveals huge family update

Daniel Radcliffe, star of the Harry Potter movies, has confirmed he and long-term partner and fellow actor Erin Darke are expecting their first child together. The couple - who have been together for 10 years - confirmed the news to People through a representative after they were spotted out and about in New York City, with Darke sporting her baby bump. And as a source told news.com.au, “they have kept it pretty quiet until now but she can’t hide her bump anymore.” The same source revealed that Radcliffe is thrilled about becoming a father, telling them that “[he] is so excited to be a dad. His relationship with Erin is really special and everyone thinks they will be amazing parents.” In October, Radcliffe actually spoke to Newsweek about what he wanted for his children, “if and when they exist”, and how he hoped to see him on film sets - something that he may now have every opportunity to experience. “A dream would be for them to come onto a film set and be like, 'God, you know, I'd love to be in the art department. I'd love to be something in the crew;,” Radcliffe explained. "Film sets are wonderful places. I think a lot of the time it can be wonderful for kids. “But it's really the fame side of it that should be avoided at all costs." Something that Radcliffe and Darke know all too well, with their years working in film and TV. Something the two have experienced together on more than one occasion - as well as starring in Don’t Think Twice, the two also worked together on the third season of Radcliffe's Miracle Workers. Radcliffe described the latter as something that “was incredibly special and felt lovely”, but wasn’t likely to become something they would do regularly, adding that “we definitely like [working together], but it's not something we want to do all the time.” The couple met in 2012 while filming Kill Your Darlings, and although they primarily keep their relationship private, Radcliffe has discussed what it was like to first get to know each other, once confessing in an interview that it would be “a hell of a story to tell our kids one day because of what our characters do with each other. "Our characters are meeting and flirting with each other, so there is this kind of sweet record of us just meeting for the first time and flirting." The 33-year-old admitted in another interview that he felt an immediate attraction to Darke, and that “there’s a moment when she makes me laugh, and I’m laughing as me and not as my character. “She was incredibly funny and smart. I knew I was in trouble.” Despite the length of their partnership, and multiple rumours that they have gotten engaged - or in more extreme stories, married - Radcliffe’s focus remains on maintaining the strong friendship they’ve forged, especially as they look ahead to their thrilling new chapter. “I think that’s the kind of relationship I always aspire to have with someone I’m in a relationship with,” Radcliffe explained. “You want that person to be your best friend. In the case of Erin, we definitely are.” Images: Getty

Family & Pets

6 ways to save money on your next cruise

Cruising can be great value but don’t be fooled by the idea of “all-inclusive” – there’s still plenty of ways to spend money once you’re onboard. Here are a few tips to cut down your costs. Drink up Consider pre-purchasing a drinks package before you board. These don’t just cover alcoholic drinks – you can get packages for water, soft drinks or coffees. Remember that cruise lines charge restaurant prices for drinks and a gratuity charge of 10 to 15 per cent is generally added on top of each purchase, so your tab can quickly add up. Do the maths and work out how much you would need to drink each day to make the package worthwhile. It’s a shore thing Most onboard experiences, like the spa or a specialty restaurant, will offer deals on port days when they expect most passengers to be off the ship. If you don’t mind missing out on the destination it can be a great day to treat yourself and save as much as 50 per cent. Disconnect Wifi on cruise ships is notoriously expensive and you could be paying up to 75c per minute. Avoid using the onboard service and wait til you’re onshore – you will always be able to find a local wifi hotspot providing free or reasonably priced access. Or you can switch off altogether and embrace the lost art of travelling without technology. Choose your own adventure All cruise lines offer a huge range of activities at each port, but the prices can be exorbitant. Instead of paying $50 per person for a basic bus tour of the city, see if there is a local bus you can take. Do you need to take a “tour” to the beach, or can you just take a taxi? Check out local operators offering the same experience for a better price. Most will be familiar with cruise passengers and can offer a package that will suit your budget and timeframe. The only danger here is that if you are on a privately organised excursion and you’re late getting back, the ship won’t wait for you – so keep a close eye on your watch. Tipping the scales Remember that a daily per person gratuity charge is added to your room account, so don’t feel the need to tip on any extras you pay for (like bar bills or spa treatments). If you thought the service was fantastic and deserves a little extra then go ahead, but don’t feel obliged just because there’s a line for it on the bill. Cheque please! Ships are cash-free environments, so you will have an account and before you disembark you will need to pay any additional costs that you have incurred. Check the bill carefully – mistakes can be made and you could end up paying for things you didn’t have or that were included in a package. Keep a careful record of what you buy and match it to your bill before handing over your credit card. Images: Getty

Cruising

Why why WHYYYY Tom Jones' biggest hit is ‘cancelled’

Choirs have been informed that they are no longer allowed to perform Welsh singer Tom Jones’ classic “Delilah” during international rugby matches at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium. The announcement, made on Wednesday, came after allegations of misogyny, sexism, racism, and homophobia within the Welsh Rugby Union. Prior to banning the song, claims of a toxic culture within the WRU’s governing body were made public during a TV documentary, and chief executive Steve Phillips issued his resignation. Previously in 2015, the WRU had removed “Delilah” from its Test match playlists and half-time entertainment, but now guest choirs have been asked not to perform it. “‘Delilah’ will not feature on the playlist for choirs for rugby internationals at Principality Stadium,” a spokesperson for the stadium confirmed. “Guest choirs have also more recently been requested not to feature the song during their pre-match performances and throughout games,” he continued, “the WRU condemns domestic violence of any kind. "We have previously sought advice from subject matter experts on the issue of censoring the song and we are respectfully aware that it is problematic and upsetting to some supporters because of its subject matter." The lyrics of concern, written in the 1960s, reference a woman’s murder at the hands of her jealous partner. “I crossed the street to her house and she opened the door. She stood there laughing,” the song goes, “I felt the knife in my hand and she laughed no more.” The decision to ban the song has been met with mixed response, with many unsure that it was the right step towards tackling the WRU’s issues - or if it was even a step at all. “All the things they need to do,” tweeted WRU wing Louis Rees-Zammit, in what is believed to be a comment on the situation, “and they do that first…” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> All the things they need to do and they do that first….😶 — Louis Rees-Zammit ⚡️ (@LouisReesZammit) <a href="https://twitter.com/LouisReesZammit/status/1620804107392155654?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2023</a></blockquote> “Wrongheaded,” was what Welsh Conservative shadow sport minister Tom Giffard said of the decision. “One that amounts to simple virtue signalling, designed to ease the pressure the WRU are currently under. Calls to ban the song span at least the last decade, yet the WRU have chosen now to act.” He went on to state that people would rather see “institutional change” within the WRU, with better working practices and a refined complaint process. But, as he put it, “instead they are choosing to ban a much loved Tom Jones song. This action will solve nothing." Images: Getty

Music

The six stages of cruise ship eating

Ah the cruise ship buffet. Faced with all that food, available all the time, many people tend to go a little… crazy. So how can you identify the early signs of waterborne gluttony and then practice some mindful restraint? Read on. Easy does it Do you launch yourself at the first buffet station you see, piling the plate high with whatever is within arm’s reach? Step back and take a deep breath. There’s plenty of food to go around, so you can do a lap around the buffet to decide what you feel like before you dive in. Leave room for seconds Some cruisers look like they are trying to balance one of everything on the buffet onto a single plate. It’s impressive both for sheer volume and for the (frankly unappetising) variety of foods all jostled together. Remember – you can make as many trips to the buffet as you’d like, so there’s no need to grab everything in one go. Eating your meal in a series of courses will give you a better idea of when you’re full and also cut down on wastage. Take a seat It’s not uncommon to see people walking around the ship clutching plates piled high with buffet goodies. Ask yourself – do you really need to be eating a bunch of cheeseburgers as you walk up to the pool deck? Probably not. There’s nothing wrong with grabbing an ice cream or biscuit on the go, but it’s a better idea to sit down in the dining room to eat your meals. It prevents you from mindlessly gorging on the go and it’s also a lot neater for the crew. Plan your day Many days onboard (especially sea days) seem to revolve entirely around eating. Get involved in some of the other activities to avoid spending the day snacking. You might even burn off a few of those extra calories you’ve been putting away. Check out the other options The buffet is easily the most famous onboard option, but most large ships will have up to a dozen other restaurants onboard. Venture away from the shiny lights and endless rows of desserts and try some of the other dining venues. The main dining room will serve a multi course a la carte menu that changes every night, and it’s included in your fare. For just a few dollars extra you can dine in a specialty restaurant serving Italian, Japanese, seafood or prime steak. Get your hands dirty Many ships now give you the option to work for your meal. Passengers can participate in a cooking class led by one of the chefs, before sitting down to enjoy a meal they’ve prepared themselves. On shore days, they can visit local markets or producers with an onboard chef to learn about the provenance of their food. There’s a lot more to the cruise dining experience than just the eating. Image: Getty Images

Cruising

Daniel Radcliffe speaks out against J.K. Rowlings's transphobic allegations

Daniel Radcliffe has spoken out about J.K. Rowling amid ongoing transphobic allegations. In a recent interview with IndieWire, the Harry Potter actor claimed he "wouldn't be able to look at himself" if he didn't take a stand against her harmful views. Radcliffe said he felt it was his responsibility to protect his fans from Rowling's rhetoric, while making clear he does not share the same views. He said, “The reason I felt very, very much as though I needed to say something when I did was because, particularly since finishing ‘Potter,’ I’ve met so many queer and trans kids and young people who had a huge amount of identification with ‘Potter’ on that.” “And so seeing them hurt on that day I was like, I wanted them to know that not everybody in the franchise felt that way. And that was really important.” Radcliffe’s letter was aired on the website of The Trevor Project, a non-profit organisation which focuses on suicide prevention efforts in the LGBTQI+ community. “It was really important as I’ve worked with the Trevor Project for more than 10 years, and so I don’t think I would’ve been able to look myself in the mirror had I not said anything,” Radcliffe added. “But it’s not mine to guess what’s going on in someone else’s head.” Rowling, 57, has come under fire numerous times for sharing messages on Twitter of a transphobic nature, which began with a tweet in June 2020, in which she disparaged use of the inclusive term “people who menstruate”. After several trans-exclusionary tweets, Radcliffe decided to share his own message of support, writing a piece addressing the saga, saying “Transgender women are women." “Any statement to the contrary erases the identity and dignity of transgender people and goes against all advice given by professional health care associations who have far more expertise on this subject matter than either Jo [Rowling] or I.” Radcliffe added, “To all the people who now feel that their experience of the [‘Harry Potter’] books has been tarnished or diminished, I am deeply sorry for the pain these comments have caused you." “I really hope that you don’t entirely lose what was valuable in these stories to you.” Image credits: Getty Images

Caring

“We’ve been expecting you”: Daniel Craig receives royal honour

Daniel Craig has been awarded one of the highest royal honours - the same one held by the character he is most well-known for playing: James Bond. Craig was appointed a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG) during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday. In Ian Fleming’s Bond novel, From Russia With Love, a Soviet spy chief notes that 007 received the honour in 1953, and that it’s “an award usually given only on retirement from the Secret Service”. Outside of fiction, spies aren’t the only recipients of the honour, with diplomats and Brits working overseas also receiving it in recognition of their services to the UK “internationally”. Craig, who holds citizenship in the US and is listed on the Investiture roll as being from New York, received the CMG in recognition of his service to film and theatre in the 2022 New Year Honours. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> We’ve been expecting you… 🎖️The Princess Royal presents Daniel Craig with The Order of St Michael and St George - the same honour held by his character James Bond - in recognition of his outstanding contribution to film and theatre. <a href="https://t.co/X20TP6BogL">pic.twitter.com/X20TP6BogL</a> — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily/status/1582319162307018752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2022</a></blockquote> He was presented with the medal during Tuesday’s ceremony by Princess Anne, with the royal family sharing a photo of the pair on social media with the playful caption, “We’ve been expecting you”. After 15 years, Craig ended his time as the martini-slinging spy in 2021, starring in the film No Time To Die. As for who will take the reins after Craig, Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson told <a href="https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/bond-producers-barbara-broccoli-and-michael-g-wilson-on-the-fate-and-future-of-007/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Empire</a> that No Time To Die wasn’t the end of the story for 007 - but it could take some time to find the actor’s replacement. "When you change the actor you have to reimagine the direction the film's gonna go in. When you hire an actor, you're hoping you're going to spend a decade at least with them and make four or five or six films with them,” Broccoli said. “It's not just flicking through Spotlight and saying, 'Oh, there's a guy who's 6'1"' We're going to take our time. We want to get a sense of where we want to go with the series and we want to do that before we bring anybody else on.” Image: @RoyalFamily (Twitter)

Movies

Daniel Johns discusses Silverchair shooting tragedy

In 1995, a 16-year-old boy in the state of Washington, aided by his friend, opened fire and killed both his parents and brother. When the shooter was apprehended, they were allegedly playing Silverchair’s Israel’s Son, which was released the same year and boasts controversial and hateful lyrics. Now, 27 years on, Silverchair frontman Daniel Johns has opened up about the tragedy. “It’s pretty devastating to write a song when you’re a teenager and then have lives taken because apparently it influenced the people to murder someone — that’s too much,” Johns told American radio personality Megan Holiday on In The Mind of Daniel Johns docuseries. An in-depth report on the murders published by Spin magazine in their September 1996 issue cited evidence that the shooter pulled a blood-spattered cassette out of his father’s hand, shrieking “That’s my f***ing tape!” It was Silverchair’s debut album Frogstomp. The shooter’s friend alleged that he put the tape in the stereo and rewound it to the track Israel’s Son. The witness’s version of events, which unfolded at his trial in January 1996, had his friend kicking the deceased bodies of his parents as the song played. The shooter’s lawyer Tom Copland would cite the lyrics of Israel's Son at an evidentiary hearing: “Hate is what I feel for you/I want you to know that I want you dead’. They petitioned the court to be allowed to play the song in his opening statement, as he claimed the song’s lyrics were “almost a script” for the killings. Johns, who was just 16 at the time, said he internalised his trauma after hearing the horrific news. “It affected me, but I had to act like it didn’t,” he said. “I couldn’t acknowledge it, I guess that was part of the patterns.” The Aussie rocker said he didn’t want fans to look to him for meanings or “guidance”. “I don’t like that people look to me for guidance in the songs. I don’t like it,” he said. Image credits: Getty Images

Music

Beyond Bali: Indonesia’s other islands

Bali is one of the world's most popular overseas holiday destinations. But did you know that Indonesia has more than 17,500 other islands with just as much to offer? Go off the beaten track and explore some the country’s other gems. Sumba <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/08/sumba-indonesia.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Image: Getty Images This rugged island in the east of Indonesia looks very different to the more touristy volcanic islands in the north. During the dry season the island can go up to seven months without a drop of rain, turning the lush jungle landscape into a parched and arid desert that more resembles Africa than southeast Asia. But once the rains come, the land springs back to life, a sparkling palette of vibrant greens, thundering waterfalls and muddy rice paddies ready for the next crop. The ancient breed of Sumba pony is a part of every day life and can be seen all over the island, used to work farms, as transport and in traditional ceremonies. Sumba is famous for its surfing, most notably for a legendary break simply called The Left that’s considered one of the best in the world. There’s only one resort on the island, the ultra luxe Nihiwatu, and guests stay in Swiss Family Robinson-style fantasy villas with private swimming pools, butler service and incredible views. Gili Islands <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/08/gili-islands.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Image: Getty Images The Gilis, as they are known, are made up of three small islands sitting just off the coast of Lombok, to the east of Bali. They have long been a backpacker haven, but small-scale development is opening them up to a wider audience. There’s a great mix of buzzing bars, quiet beaches and vibrant local culture. It’s one of the best places in Southeast Asia for diving with around 25 dive sites around the islands. The water is crystal clear and a consistent 28 degrees, and once under the surface you’ll see reef sharks, rays, parrot fish, eels, octopus, the occasional whale shark and plenty of turtles – Gili is known as the turtle capital of the world. Java <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/08/java.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Image: Getty Images Java is the geographical and economic centre of Indonesia, and home to the capital Jakarta as well as a number of other major cities. But before you dismiss it as another busy, smoggy Asian capital, there’s much more to Java. A visit to the smaller villages of the island will give you the chance to experience Indonesian life as it is lived every day and, while Java’s not known for its beaches, there are some nice strips of sand that are blissfully crowd-free. The island’s most famous landmark is the vast Borobudur complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating from the ninth century that’s easily one of the most stunning temples in Southeast Asia. Active travellers can climb the moon-like peaks of Mount Bromo to see volcanic craters that still bubble with smoke. Flores Komodo <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/08/komodo-flores-island.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Image: Getty Images These pristine islands form part of the Nusa Tengarra chain of islands that make up the southern arc of the Indonesian archipelago. The name is a giveaway for the islands’ most famous resident – the Komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard. Reaching up to three metres in length and an impressive 130 (or so) kilograms, these are pretty fearsome beasts and are known to eat wild pigs, deer and even smaller dragons. They can move at around 20 kilometres an hour, so it’s best to keep your distance. Flores is also home to a row of semi-active volcanoes that make for superb hiking and both islands are ringed with sparkling water and unspoilt beaches.

International Travel

Alex Jones to pay eye-watering sum in damages

Alex Jones, the host of far-right radio show InfoWars, has been ordered to pay a total of $US 49.3 million ($NZD 78.43 million) in damages for falsely claiming the 2012 Sandy Hook school shooting was a hoax. A Texas jury ruled that Jones pay $45.2 million in punitive damages, after awarding $4.1 million in compensatory damages the previous day, per <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-62444302" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BBC News</a>. Jones has repeatedly claimed that the shooting at Sandy Hook primary school, Connecticut, where 20 children and adults were killed was a “hoax” carried out by actors who opposed the Second Amendment right to bear firearms. Nail Heslin and Scarlett Lewis, the plaintiffs in the case and whose son died in the shooting, asked the court for $150 million, claiming they endured harassment and emotional distress as a result of his misinformation. Heslin told the court that Jones’ falsehoods had made his life “hell” and led to harassment and death threats from people who believed he had lied about his son’s death. The $4.1 million in compensatory damages were issued on Thursday to cover the actual costs incurred by the plaintiffs as a result of Jones’ defamation, including the private security they hired out of fear a Jones supporter may attack them during the trial. The following day’s $45.2 million are meant to deter Jones from repeating his offence. “We ask that you send a very, very simple message and that is: Stop Alex Jones,” a lawyer for the parents said in court on Friday. “Stop the monetisation of misinformation and lies. Please.” Lawyers representing Heslin and Lewis accused Jones of trying to hide evidence, arguing that he committed perjury by denying having sent any messages about the shooting - with one attorney revealing that Jones’ legal representative accidentally sent them two years of Jones’ text messages. “Did you know 12 days ago your attorneys messed up and sent me an entire digital copy of your entire cell phone with every text message you’ve sent for the past two years?” said attorney Mark Bankston, according to HuffPost. “And when informed did not take any steps to identify it as privilege?” "If I was mistaken, I was mistaken, you've got the text messages right there," Jones said. Despite his long-held position that the shooting was fake, Jones acknowledged that it was “100 percent real” in court. “I unintentionally took part in things that did hurt these people’s feelings, and I’m sorry for that,” Jones said. However, the radio host has continued to use his media platform to claim the case was rigged against him, with his InfoWars depicting a judge being consumed by flames. During his brief appearance in court, Jones was rebuked several times by the judge for lying under oath, including one moment where he was told: “This is not your show.” The trial is one of three brought against Jones by family members of the Sandy Hook victims, and comes after he has lost a series of defamation cases filed by parents by default after he failed to produce documents or testimony. But, this is the first trial where a jury agreed to award financial damages. Image: Getty Images

Money & Banking

“What a low act!": Daniel Morcombe's parents outraged at upcoming film

The devastated parents of murdered Queensland boy Daniel Morcombe have blasted an upcoming film about their son’s death. Daniel Morcombe was only 13 years old when he was abducted and murdered on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast in December, 2003. In August 2011, Brett Peter Cowan was arrested and later found guilty of Daniel’s murder. Now parents Denise and Bruce Morcombe have come out attacking the film The Stranger, which tells the story of an undercover detective trying to catch a killer in Australia. The Stranger premiered at Cannes earlier this year and will play at the Melbourne International Film Festival in August. A statement from the Morcombe’s was shared on the Daniel Morcombe Foundation Facebook page calling the film a “low act” and have asked people not to watch it. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> The movie “The Stranger” is not supported by the Morcombe family. Individuals who make money on a heinous crime are parasites. They are callously disrespectful to Daniel, the DMF & the Morcombe family. We find the making of the movie morally corrupt and cruel. Shame on you. <a href="https://t.co/9FEFAp5g0G">pic.twitter.com/9FEFAp5g0G</a> — Denise Morcombe OAM (@DeniseMorcombe) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeniseMorcombe/status/1547358728286261248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2022</a></blockquote> “What a low act! I won’t be going to watch this movie. I won’t be recommending anyone go. The movie is not supported or sanctioned in any way by the Morcombe family,” the statement read. “It’s appalling storyline ignores our family‘s pain and chooses to profit from 13-year-old Daniel Morcombe. “Next year will mark 20 years since we lost Daniel. The passage of time does not make it any easier. Personally, I find the making of this movie morally corrupt and a cruel, callous, selfish cash grab by all involved. Shame on you. “I recommend the public stay away from it and either save their money or consider donating it to the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.” Mrs Morcombe took it further and called the movie makers “parasites” for disrespecting her son. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> We are not amused! How can anyone give oxygen to a crime that is so, so evil? Connections of the movie have blood on their hands. — Bruce Morcombe (@BruceMorcombe) <a href="https://twitter.com/BruceMorcombe/status/1547361223804481536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2022</a></blockquote> “The movie ‘The Stranger’ is not supported by the Morcombe family. Individuals who make money on a heinous crime are parasites,” she wrote. “They are callously disrespectful to Daniel, the DMF & the Morcombe family. We find the making of the movie morally corrupt and cruel. Shame on you.” Mr Morcombe responded to his wife’s tweet saying: “We are not amused! How can anyone give oxygen to a crime that is so, so evil? Connections of the movie have blood on their hands.” Director Thomas M Wright said he made the film to share a different perspective of the story because he could not “presume” what the family was going through. “One reason I chose not to show the child or family (in The Stranger) was to make a film with a clear moral perspective,” he previously said. “I couldn’t presume to know anything of the experience of that family. But I could see that there was a story about empathy and making meaning in the wake of violence, not violence itself.” According to Hollywood reporter, “the film offers a fictionalised portrait of the massive undercover operation that cracked the infamous cold case of 13-year-old Daniel Morcombe, who went missing in 2003.” Images: Daniel Morcombe Foundation

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Harrison Ford is back as an 80-year-old Indiana Jones – and a 40-something Indy. The highs (and lows) of returning to iconic roles