This week's cultural landscape offers an exceptional range of critically acclaimed television, cinema releases, and literary works that demand attention. From taut psychological dramas to Nobel prize-winning literature, here are the standout picks from the Guardian's highest-rated reviews.
Television Highlights: Compelling Drama and Documentaries
Leading this week's television offerings is The Beast in Me, now streaming on Netflix. This gripping psychological drama features Claire Danes as a grief-stricken author whose life transforms when a mysterious multimillionaire, brilliantly portrayed by Matthew Rhys, enters her world. The series has been praised for its beautifully written scenes that explore the complex dynamics between two people discovering profound connection.
Meanwhile, BBC iPlayer presents The Eubanks: Like Father, Like Son, a surprisingly moving documentary following the emotional reunion between boxing legend Chris Eubank and his son Chris Eubank Jr. The film captures their attempts to connect ahead of the younger Eubank's fight with Conor Benn, offering raw insight into their complicated relationship.
Disney+ delivers Caroline Flack: Search for the Truth, a thorough two-part documentary that follows the TV presenter's mother as she seeks answers about her daughter's tragic death. The series has been commended for its forensic approach, providing an antidote to sensationalised true-crime programming.
Cinema and Streaming: From Taiwanese Drama to Stephen King Adaptation
In cinemas, Left-Handed Girl emerges as a must-see Taiwanese family drama from Sean Baker collaborator Shih-Ching Tsou. The film poignantly explores family dynamics through the story of a child admonished for using her left hand, delivering what critics describe as a triumph of cinema.
Edgar Wright's The Running Man offers a fresh take on Stephen King's 1982 novel, with Glen Powell starring in this future-shock sci-fi satire. The film features full-tilt chase sequences and Wright's signature soundtrack choices, including the Spencer Davis Group's Keep on Running.
For documentary enthusiasts, Apple TV+ presents Come See Me in the Good Light, chronicling poet Andrea Gibson's journey following a terminal cancer diagnosis. The film won the audience award at Sundance and has been praised for its unvarnished honesty and poignant storytelling.
Literary Excellence: Nobel Winner Returns with New Work
The literary world welcomes Vaim by Nobel prize winner Jon Fosse, his first new work since receiving the literature Nobel in 2023. Translated by Damion Searls, the book has been described as a strange miracle, with prose that pulses with profound feeling despite its apparent simplicity.
Punk poet Patti Smith returns with Bread of Angels, reflecting on her early life and later career. Meanwhile, Hollywood legend Anthony Hopkins shares his life story in We did OK, Kid, chronicling his remarkable journey from Port Talbot to international acclaim.
Booker prize winner David Szalay presents Flesh, a brilliantly spare portrait of a man navigating forces beyond his control. The novel has been praised for its existential depth and compelling character study.
Music and Performance: From Chart-Toppers to Free Jazz
In music, chart-topping singer Celeste releases Woman of Faces, a difficult second album that ultimately delivers spectacular sombre songcraft. Critics note the album's potent beauty and Celeste's remarkable vocal command.
British free-jazz pianist Pat Thomas leads his quartet أحمد [Ahmed] through Sama'a (Audition), fusing Sufi inspiration with rhythmic intensity and improvisational fire. The album draws from diverse influences including Duke Ellington, dub, and jungle music.
On tour, Richard Ashcroft delivers cathartic performances described as reminiscent of a gigantic Last Night of the Proms. The former Verve frontman continues to captivate audiences with his compelling stage presence and anthemic songs.
