Theme - Mensa Swallows Universe

The 2025 AMC theme "Mensa Swallows Universe" pays homage to Trent Dalton's bestselling novel and Netflix series - Boy Swallows Universe, which are both set in Brisbane.


The novel is a semi-autobiographical coming-of-age novel set in Brisbane, Australia in 1983. Eli Bell is a traumatized teenager with an absent father, a mute brother, an imprisoned mother and a heroin dealer for a stepfather.

After publication in 2018, it became the fastest selling debut novel in Australian history, selling more than a million copies worldwide.

A 2021 stage adaptation became the best-selling show in Queensland's history.

The Netflix series Boy Swallows Universe premiered on January 11, 2024, to overwhelming praise from critics and audiences. The story, tone, acting and faithfulness to the source material were all subjects of particular acclaim. It received numerous accolades, including a record 10 Logie Award nominations, winning 5 Logies.