More about this topic
Cinema
Woody Allen responds to backlash over Russian film festival appearance
Allen reportedly praised Russian cinema during his virtual appearance at this year's Moscow International Film Week, and said he would like to make a movie in Russia if he had an opportunity. Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned his participation. Now, the filmmaker has issued a response.
Culture news
Will Smith accused of using AI for ‘embarrassing’ tour video
Many are convinced that Will Smith and his team have doctored a video promoting the rapper-actor's ongoing tour so that the crowds appear larger. It’s not a great look, especially with the existential threat AI poses for musicians...
Cinema
'A disgrace': Woody Allen faces backlash for Russian fest attendance
The American filmmaker took part in a Q&A session via a video link, with pro-Putin Russian director Fyodor Bondarchuk moderating the conversation. Allen’s presence has sparked outrage, with Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs calling it "a disgrace and an insult."
Culture news
What's behind the mass music festival boycott in UK over the weekend?
Several bands pulled out from the Victorious music festival over the weekend, in some cases just hours before their scheduled performances. They were standing in solidarity with the Irish folk group The Mary Wallopers, who had their set cut short for displaying a Palestinian flag.
ADVERTISEMENT
Cinema
Is Kevin Spacey heading to Venice Film Festival for comeback bid?
After showing up at an event during the Cannes Film Festival, Kevin Spacey will debut a trailer in Venice for a sci-fi thriller he directed. This is part of his continued efforts to stage a comeback, following sexual misconduct allegations and legal issues which have derailed his Hollywood career.
Culture news
Kneecap head to Rock en Seine festival amid increased scrutiny
The French Minister of the Interior has reiterated his zero-tolerance stance towards any disorder. The owner of France’s most popular music festival said to those who oppose the presence of Kneecap on stage: “To claim that supporting the Palestinian cause is a threat to public order is deplorable."
Culture news
New 'South Park' episode targets Trump's federal D.C. police takeover
South Park’s Season 27 continues to be one of the most talked-about in recent memory, with its new episode - which aired last night - pulling no punches when it comes to satirising Trump, tech CEOs kowtowing to the US president, and the controversial federal takeover of Washinton D.C.’s police.
Culture news
Controversy explained: UK’s LGBTQ+ literary prize 2025 cancelled
This year's Polari Prize has been cancelled due to the longlist inclusion of a book by John Boyne. The situation escalated into a mass boycott and now, the organisation behind the LGBTQ+ literary award has pledged to undertake a full review of its policies. Here's everything you need to know.
Culture news
Tom Cruise turns down Donald Trump’s invite for Kennedy Center Honor
Tom Cruise was reportedly invited to receive a Kennedy Center Honor, alongside Sylvester Stallone, rockers KISS and singer Gloria Gaynor. Trump, as the new chairman of the Kennedy Center, stated that he “turned down plenty” of candidates for the 2025 honours list because of their "woke" politics.
Culture news
White House orders US museum review to ensure they meet Trump’s agenda
A letter sent by the White House is ordering several US museums to align their content with Donald Trump’s interpretation of American history. The president has accused the Smithsonian of coming under the influence of a “divisive, race-centered ideology.”