Encore!

This week on arts24, we explore the rise of virtual talent and the storm surrounding AI actress Tilly Norwood, the digital star unveiled at the Zurich Film Festival that's shaking up the entertainment world. Plus, film critic Emma Jones tells us about the festival's human stars: Russell Crowe reflects on his storied career while accepting a Lifetime Achievement Award, Colin Farrell charms audiences in a new role set in Macau, and Benedict Cumberbatch confronts grief in an unexpected form. We also take a first look at Palme d'Or winner "It Was Just an Accident", a haunting new feature from Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi, and dive into "A Big Bold Beautiful Journey", the fantasy romance starring Colin Farrell and Margot Robbie that has left critics divided.

Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi has been jailed, gone on hunger strike and even sold his house to pay bail – all for the right to make movies. After winning the Palme d'Or at Cannes and being selected to represent France at the Oscars, he's now releasing his new film "It Was Just an Accident", inspired by his own imprisonment. In this interview, Panahi explains to Eve Jackson why every film is worth the risk.

If you're a fan of gospel, soul and folk with a vintage pop vibe, you'll love the work of Natalie Bergman, who has just released her second solo album "My Home Is Not In This World" on Jack White's Third Man Records. The record can be seen as a rebirth following her stunning but grief-stricken first album. This new offering explores past loves and aims to bring comfort and reassurance in these complicated times. She popped by FRANCE 24 to tell Marjorie Hache more about the record and the music videos that beautifully accompany it. We also meet Ireland's rising pop star CMAT, who has just released a new album "Euro-Country" and we take a look at Spark's new EP "Madder!" 

"Art is my way of turning pain into hope." Those are the words of Gaza-based photographer Belal Khaled, whose images have been seen by millions and published in Time, the Guardian and The Wall Street Journal. His work, along with that of 10 other Gaza-based photographers, is at the heart of a powerful new exhibition at P21 Gallery in London, titled "Against Erasure: Photographs from Gaza." In a war where foreign reporters have been banned from Gaza, these photojournalists risk their lives to document what's happening and ensure their stories are not silenced.

Their debut album "Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)" changed the course of East Coast hip-hop in 1993, with its lyrical acrobatics delivered by a charismatic collective of MCs. Thirty years later, the Wu-Tang Clan have taken to the stage of the immense Red Rocks amphitheatre, accompanied by the Colorado Symphony orchestra, for a historical concert that is at the centre of "A Wu-Tang experience: Live at Red Rocks". Its director, Gerald Barclay, and founder of the Wu-Tang clan RZA join arts24 to discuss this major moment in the group's history.

From a Tunisian beauty contest to starring in Fellini's masterpieces, Claudia Cardinale's dazzling career shaped European cinema's golden age. Join us on arts24 as film critic Emma Jones and Eve Jackson celebrate the legacy of Italy's unforgettable sweetheart, an accidental star who became a legend. Don't miss this tribute to a true cinematic icon.

In this episode of arts24, coinciding with the 200th anniversary of the first passenger train, award-winning travel writer Monisha Rajesh joins Eve Jackson to share her immersive, rail-bound adventures across continents. Her latest book, "Moonlight Express: Around the World by Night Train", takes readers on 18 unforgettable journeys – from sipping pisco sours aboard Peru's Andean Explorer to watching the sunrise over Istanbul's skyline.

On today's music show on Arts24, Jennifer Ben Brahim sits down with Chicago-born, New York-based singer, songwriter, and producer KeiyaA. Known for her gossamer vocals and genre-blending sound – mixing jazz, soul, and electro – KeiyaA made waves with her debut album Forever, Ya Girl, earning critical acclaim and fans like Solange, Jay-Z, and Moses Sumney. Five years later, she returns with her sophomore album Hooke's Law, a deeply personal journey of self-love that serves as a musical diary of one of the most challenging periods of her life.

The Cathedral's bell towers were the last part of the site to reopen to the public following extensive renovations after the 2019 fire that devastated large parts of the building. French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated the bell towers ahead of the European Heritage Days, when the cathedral will be fully accessible once again. FRANCE 24's Aurore Cloé Dupuis visited to get a preview of one of the best views in Paris. We also explore other architectural gems opening their doors this weekend, including a chocolate workshop led by one of France's finest chefs.

Israeli director Nadav Lapid joins Arts24 to discuss “Yes”, his most daring film yet, released this week in France after a powerful premiere at Cannes. Shot in Israel during the war in Gaza and completed under rocket fire, the film follows a musician tasked with composing a patriotic anthem after October 7. With cast and crew walking off set, “Yes”was shaped by real-time tensions both on and off screen. Blending biting satire with deep emotional undercurrents, the film explores the complex roles of artists and citizens during national trauma. Lapid reflects on creative freedom, identity, and the challenge of telling hard truths in turbulent times.

French pop star Mylène Farmer makes a rare appearance as the voice of an AI-powered virtual assistant in "Dalloway", which deals with some of the darker sides of creativity in Yann Gozlan's latest film. Manon Kerjean, the founder of Lost in Translation, a film club screening French features in Paris for non-French speakers, joins us to discuss the merits of this "Black Mirror"-adjacent movie. We also discuss Pierre Schoeller's psychological thriller "Rembrandt" and reflect on the complexities at the centre of the troubled relationship between Yves Montand and Simone Signoret, as the actress and singer's lives are examined by Diane Kurys in "C'est Si Bon". And Manon flags up a Maurice Pialat retrospective at the Cinémathèque Française that provides an insight into the iconoclastic French filmmaker.

With his golden boy good looks, on-screen charisma, environmental convictions and commitment to supporting independent film, Robert Redford was a giant of Hollywood. As tributes pour in following his death at 89 years old, film critic Emma Jones and Redford's biographer Michael Feeney Callan reflect on his starring roles, his on-screen chemistry with legendary actresses and the strong convictions that saw him launch the Sundance Film Festival and, in doing so, change the face of contemporary American cinema.

In this episode of arts24, Eve Jackson sits down with one of the most celebrated British-Turkish novelists of our time, Elif Shafak. With over 20 books translated into more than 50 languages, Shafak believes fiction remains one of the last truly democratic spaces, where stories can build empathy, challenge polarisation and create connections across cultures. Her latest novel, "There Are Rivers in the Sky", takes readers on a sweeping journey through history and geography, tracing a single drop of water from ancient Mesopotamia to modern-day Iraq, against the urgent backdrop of climate crisis and cultural loss.

Hollywood is mourning one of its greatest actors and directors. Robert Redford has died at the age of 89, leaving behind a monumental cinematic legacy. A big screen icon, he played unforgettable roles, from "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" to "Out of Africa" and made his mark as a director with classics such as "Ordinary People" and "A River Runs Through It". The founder of the Sundance Film Festival and a champion of independent cinema, Redford was also a committed advocate for the environment and civil liberties. With a career spanning more than six decades, he leaves an indelible mark on the history of cinema. FRANCE 24's Eve Jackson tells us more about his legacy.

In this episode of arts24, Eve Jackson is joined by Dheepthika Laurent to break down the standout moments from the 2025 Emmy Awards, including the history-making win for "Adolescence". The British drama shocked and moved audiences with its portrayal of a teenage boy radicalised by the online manosphere, earning 15-year-old Owen Cooper the award for Best Supporting Actor in a Limited Series. We explore what makes "Adolescence" one of the most powerful shows of the year, and why it's already being used in classrooms to raise awareness about online extremism.

Harlem-based sculptor Kim Dacres brings her raw, unapologetic vision to Europe with "Crossroads Like This", now on view at the Zidoun-Bossuyt Gallery in Paris. Known for transforming discarded tyres into commanding forms, Dacres centres Black, queer and feminine identity in her work, shaping complex narratives of memory, resistance and cultural pride. From her Bronx studio to international acclaim, her voice is redefining what contemporary sculpture can say and who it represents. She spoke to us on arts24.

Born in Tehran and exiled in Paris, Golshifteh Farahani has become one of the faces of international cinema. At just 42, the Iranian actress has already appeared in more than 50 films in numerous languages. An outspoken artist and a strong voice for women's rights, she's presiding over the jury at this year's Deauville American Film Festival in Normandy. She spoke to FRANCE 24's Louise Dupont about her latest projects, her career choices and her perspective on Iran.

Filmmaker Kateryna Gornostai takes us to classrooms all over Ukraine in her latest documentary, as children and teenagers continue their education despite the ongoing Russian aggression. Amid the rubble and air raid sirens, "Timestamp" reveals the unwavering commitment of teachers to convey lifesaving, practical information as well as encouraging joy, beauty and laughter. Kateryna tells us about the reality of filming in an active conflict zone and why the war represents an existential attack on the very notion of Ukrainian identity. 

Actress Kim Novak receives a special tribute at the 51st American Film Festival in Deauville, while newcomers Cole Webley, Christian Swe­gal and first-time directors Scarlett Johansson and Kristen Stewart screen their features in the Normandy resort town. FRANCE 24's Genie Godula takes time out from her duties as mistress of ceremonies to bring us the highlights, with Pamela Anderson's Talent Prize kicking off this year's festival and a rich selection of documentaries and retrospectives also on the bill. 

From the heart of California's infernos to the front lines of the climate crisis, photographer Josh Edelson has spent 10 years capturing the raw reality of wildfire destruction. His haunting images, showcased at the "Visa pour l'Image" photojournalism festival in southern France, reveal the human stories behind the flames – stories that resonate deeply as Europe faces its own devastating blazes.

This week on arts24, FRANCE 24's Jennifer Ben Brahim welcomes French singer-songwriter Jehnny Beth. The founder of UK band Savages collaborated with big names such as Idles and Depeche Mode before making her debut as an actress. She is now back with a second album, "You Heartbreaker, You", five years after the release of her first solo album.

The Normandy beach town of Deauville is welcoming Hollywood heavyweights Kristen Stewart, Pamela Anderson and Kim Novak alongside indie talents at this year's American Film Festival. FRANCE 24's Genie Godula brings us the highlights of the opening weekend, as Michael Angelo Covino's "Splitsville" kicks off proceedings, starring Dakota Johnson and Kyle Marvin. We also hear more about Kristen Stewart's and Scarlett Johansson's directorial débuts and the retrospectives providing insight into American film icons. Plus tributes pour in from the world of music, fashion and movies following the death of designer Giorgio Armani.  

In this episode of arts24, we begin at the Venice Film Festival, where a harrowing film about a five-year-old girl killed during an Israeli assault on Gaza, entitled "The Voice of Hind Rajab", received a 23-minute standing ovation. Directed by Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania and executive produced by Brad Pitt, Joaquin Phoenix and others, the film uses real phone recordings to reconstruct the child's final moments, leaving audiences visibly shaken and critics calling it the most urgent entry of the festival.

The 82nd Venice Film Festival got underway with a constellation of stars on its red carpet, as Julia Roberts and Andrew Garfield attended the premiere of "After the Hunt", directed by Luca Guadagnino. Film critic Emma Jones tells us why she was impressed by Yorgos Lanthimos's "Bugonia", starring Emma Stone and Jesse Plemmons. We also discuss the French-made political intrigue "The Wizard of the Kremlin", with Jude Law playing Vladimir Putin himself. And politics were ever-present at this year's Mostra, with Venice4Palestine protests and Kaouther Ben Hania's powerful docu-drama "The Voice of Hind Rajab", which is set in Gaza.

They met on Instagram during lockdown – now they're roasting each other live on stage. Meet stand-up duo Markus Birdman and Malinda Mukuma, whose comedy show "Algorithm and Blues" brings fearless comedy, personal storytelling and cheeky banter to Paris's Chez Georges venue. From "Britain's Got Talent" to punchlines about strokes, names and love, no topic is off-limits. The duo join Eve Jackson on this edition of arts24.

This week, arts24 welcomes one of Detroit's finest: DJ and producer Jeff Mills, who is taking part in the latest edition of Paris's "Jazz à la Villette" festival as part of Tomorrow Comes The Harvest, a collective he created with the late Afrobeat drummer Tony Allen. He tells Marjorie Hache about performing live alongside the legendary Sun Ra Arkestra and their future album "The Forbidden Planet" that will be out in 2026. They also look at new releases by David Byrne, The Hives and Suede.

In this episode of arts24, Eve Jackson sits down with Scandar Copti – a Palestinian filmmaker, Israeli citizen and one of the most original cinematic voices working today. His new film, "Happy Holidays", is set in the northern city of Haifa and unfolds in four interwoven chapters, following the intersecting lives of Palestinian Christians and Jewish Israelis. As these characters navigate love, gender roles and the invisible weight of politics, the film reveals a society shaped as much by silence as by conflict.

In this edition of arts24 with Eve Jackson, dive into the dazzling opening night of the Venice Film Festival. From Cate Blanchett and Tilda Swinton to George Clooney and Heidi Klum, we take you inside the star-studded red carpet moments. Also on the programme: an exhibition giving "Downton Abbey" fans the chance to own a piece of television history. From costumes to iconic props and even the Grantham family's car, these treasured items are on display in London ahead of a charity auction at Bonhams.

Dive into the best of French filmmaking with arts24's weekly cinema show. From the premieres at the Venice Film Festival – where seven French productions are competing for the coveted Golden Lion – to the vibrant Angoulême Francophone Film Festival showcasing a rich variety of French-language films, this is your guide to the most exciting French movies of the moment.

Why has Cleopatra remained such an iconic figure for more than 2,000 years? Arts24 kicks off its new season with a deep dive into the Paris exhibition at the Arab World Institute "The Mystery of Cleopatra", which brings together over 250 artworks exploring the life, reign and enduring legacy of Egypt's last pharaoh. Plus, in Arles, the world-renowned "Rencontres de la Photographie" festival hosts a rare artistic dialogue between Lee Ufan and Michelangelo Pistoletto. FRANCE 24's Louise Dupont sits down with the Italian maestro to talk about collaboration, creativity and crossing cultural boundaries. Don't miss this vibrant start to the new season of arts24!

Arts24 returns with a special programme dedicated to the Rock en Seine music festival, which took place over three days in the Parc de Saint-Cloud, just outside Paris. FRANCE 24's Jennifer Ben Brahim looks back at the exceptional lineup for this 21st edition, which kicked off with a highly anticipated concert by Chappell Roan, performing her only show in France. Other headliners included Suki Waterhouse, Queens of the Stone Age, Fontaines D.C., and London Grammar.

Our TV critic Dheepthika Laurent joins Eve Jackson to unpack the highlights of July and August's biggest series and films – from "Jaws at 50" featuring exclusive interviews, to the light-hearted drama of "Acapulco", the Emmy buzz surrounding this year's nominations and the exciting new "Black Panther" spinoff "Eyes of Wakanda" on Disney+. Don't miss our full rundown and exclusive insights into what to watch this summer!

In this episode of arts24 with Eve Jackson, we explore the 56th Rencontres d'Arles festival in France, where women and Indigenous artists like Caroline Monnet take centre stage, challenging colonial narratives and celebrating resilience through photography and art. Plus, get previews of London's new burlesque musical "Diamonds and Dust" starring Dita Von Teese, Oasis's triumphant return to Manchester and the global Netflix sensation "KPop Demon Hunters".

Get ready for your ultimate cinema fix! This week on arts24, Eve Jackson and film critic Emma Jones dive into the hottest summer movie releases – from the psychological pandemic drama "Eddington" to the blockbuster reboot of "Superman", plus the colourful new "Smurfs" adventure. Discover why Joaquin Phoenix's latest film grapples with the turmoil of 2020, how James Gunn's Superman brings heart and humour back to the Man of Steel and why Rihanna's Smurfette steals the show in the beloved reboot. Plus, get a sneak peek at upcoming films this summer, including Luc Besson's "Dracula" and Pedro Pascal's sci-fi epic "The Fantastic Four: First Steps".

For three weeks every summer, the streets of the southern French city of Avignon are overrun with performances of all kinds, from classical drama to spontaneous stand-up comedy. FRANCE 24's Olivia Salazar-Winspear went to check out this year's programme, as festival director Tiago Rodrigues invites Arabic-speaking artists to show their work as part of his guest language initiative.

FRANCE 24's Jennifer Ben Brahim chats with British musician, poet, playwright and author Kae Tempest. He is back with "Self Titled", his most personal album to date, which among other topics talks about his recent transition.

As the Haute Couture collections wrap up in the French capital, we take a look at some of the highlights in a season where arrivals and departures have cast a shadow over many of the major houses' collections. Fashion editor Samantha Tse talks us through a transitional collection for Chanel, as the label awaits the arrival of its new artistic director, Matthieu Blazy. Echoing the Met museum's glitzy annual gala, the Bal d'Eté in Paris brought together celebrities like Keira Knightley, Sofia Coppola, Penelope Cruz and Diane Kruger to raise funds for the Louvre's Decorative Arts Museum.

Join arts24 presenter Eve Jackson on an exclusive journey inside the Grand Egyptian Museum – a colossal cultural masterpiece just a mile from the Great Pyramids of Giza. The museum's grand debut has faced multiple delays and was set to open this July, but ongoing tensions in the Middle East have pushed back the opening once again, making this your rare opportunity to explore its wonders ahead of time. 

Film critic Perrine Quennesson tells us why Palme d'Or-winning director Julia Ducournau's latest feature "Alpha" divided critics when it screened at Cannes. She explains how leading actor Tahar Rahim transformed himself for the role and salutes the French filmmaker's imaginative use of imagery in her daring films.

"House of Cards" actress Robin Wright speaks to Genie Godula from the Monte Carlo Television festival, where she received a special career honour. The Crystal Nymph Award pays tribute to her 40 years in the TV industry. Wright talks about her career choices, her family and the fight for equal pay with her male counterparts. 

This week on arts24, Eve Jackson is in the studio while our reporter Olivia Salazar-Winspear is on the ground at one of the world's most iconic theatre gatherings – the Avignon Festival in southern France. Now in its 79th year, the event is turning heads with a bold and timely focus on Arabic-language works, shining a light on one of France's most spoken – yet still underrepresented – languages on stage. Festival director Tiago Rodrigues continues his mission to open up theatre to new audiences with a more inclusive and international approach. This year's programme features powerful performances from Morocco to Palestine, and even a Sheherazade-inspired opening show at the majestic Palais des Papes.

Culture Editor Eve Jackson looks back on the career of the prolific star Michael Madsen, best known for his roles in Quentin Tarantino's "Reservoir Dogs", "Kill Bill: Vol. 2", "The Hateful Eight" and "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood". The American actor died suddenly on Thursday at the age of 67. Eve also covers the long-awaited Oasis reunion tour kicking off this Friday and celebrates musical icon Angélique Kidjo, who has become the first Black African singer to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.