Fighters, legends and beloved indie bands: What to see, do or hear this week in Europe
Fighters, Legends, and Beloved Indie Bands: What to See, Do, or Hear This Week in Europe
Cinema and Streaming Highlights
Fighters legends and beloved indie bands – With the sun blazing and open-air events beckoning, there’s no shortage of reasons to linger indoors this week. If you need an excuse to avoid the heat, here are some standout experiences that promise entertainment without the need for stepping outside. The latest film release, Mortal Kombat II, offers a chance to immerse yourself in a high-octane battle between fictional warriors. While the premise of a tyrant plotting global domination may seem cliché, the blend of over-the-top drama and exhilarating action ensures it’s a gripping watch. For those who prefer a more grounded narrative, Netflix’s Legends delivers a crime thriller that’s as intense as it is engaging, with a storyline that unfolds across a 1990s setting. UK audiences will also have a special reason to tune in: two David Attenborough documentaries celebrating his centenary year, scheduled for 3 and 8 May on BBC1. These programmes, titled Making Life on Earth: Attenborough’s Greatest Adventure and David Attenborough’s 100 Years on Planet Earth, are sure to captivate fans of nature documentaries.
Music enthusiasts can look forward to new album drops from rising and established acts. The Canadian indie-rock collective Broken Social Scene, known for their eclectic sound and rotating lineup of members, returns with a highly anticipated release. Their latest project, Remember the Humans, features guest vocals from Feist, adding a fresh layer to their signature genre-blending style. Meanwhile, British rapper Little Simz continues to make waves with her introspective and powerful work. Her latest album, Anthems for a Seventeen Year-Old Girl, is set to resonate with listeners, offering a mix of raw emotion and sonic innovation.
“Alexa, play ‘Anthems for a Seventeen Year-Old Girl’ again!”
For a truly immersive experience, fans of Billie Eilish’s artful approach to music and performance can catch her Hit Me Hard and Soft – The Tour Live in 3D on 8 May. Directed by James Cameron, the concert film takes viewers deep into the world of the artist, blending cinematic storytelling with her signature style of introspective lyrics and atmospheric visuals. This event is a must for those who appreciate the intersection of music, technology, and art.
Art Exhibitions and Cultural Events
Art lovers have a major event to mark on their calendars: the Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious platforms for contemporary art and architecture. Starting on 9 May, the festival’s theme, In Minor Keys, promises a diverse range of exhibitions that challenge conventional perspectives. Among the highlights is Marina Abramović’s new exhibition at the Gallerie dell’Accademia, which serves as a fitting tribute to her 80th birthday. The showcase features a mix of interactive installations and classic works, including Light/Dark (1977), Balkan Baroque (1997), and Carrying the Skeleton (2008). These pieces are accompanied by projections of her earlier performances, creating a dialogue between past and present.
Meanwhile, the National Gallery in London is hosting a curated collection of Spanish Baroque masterpieces. Focusing on Francisco de Zurbarán, the exhibition brings together works that highlight his mastery of religious themes and chiaroscuro techniques. From depictions of Christ’s crucifixion to solitary nuns, Zurbarán’s art captures a sense of solemnity and realism that has endured through centuries. The National Gallery’s effort to compile a comprehensive display of his works is a testament to his lasting influence. This exhibition also includes contributions from other European and American institutions, ensuring a rich and varied experience for visitors.
Specials and Binge-Worthy Content
For those craving a break from the usual fare, the Venice Biennale and National Gallery events are complemented by a slate of binge-worthy content. The Netflix drama Legends stands out as a gripping series that follows a team of customs officers as they navigate the treacherous world of drug trafficking. Set in the 1990s, the show combines real-life elements with a fictional storyline, offering a gritty portrayal of smuggling operations, forged identities, and escalating threats. With only six episodes, it’s ideal for fans of crime thrillers who want to dive deep into the narrative without committing to a long marathon.
Another highlight is the return of Broken Social Scene to the spotlight. Since their debut in 2001, the band has maintained a cult following with their ever-evolving sound and rotating cast of musicians. Their latest album, Remember the Humans, is no exception, featuring a collaborative spirit that’s become a hallmark of their work. The project’s unique approach to music creation, blending individual contributions with collective experimentation, cements its place as a rare and valuable addition to the indie scene.
More Notable Releases and Events
Returning to the world of entertainment, Mortal Kombat II marks the second installment of a video game franchise that has dominated pop culture for decades. Originally conceived for arcade machines in 1992, the series has since expanded into a multimedia empire, spanning films, animated shows, and live events. This sequel retains the iconic characters from the original, including Johnny Cage, portrayed by Karl Urban, and Shao Kahn, played by Martyn Ford. The film’s exaggerated melodrama and CGI-heavy visuals are a nod to the franchise’s legacy, though it may not be the most subtle adaptation.
At the heart of the week’s cultural offerings is the Venice Biennale, which not only showcases new art but also pays homage to the enduring contributions of visionary creators. Marina Abramović’s exhibition, in particular, is a celebration of her decades-long career, which has redefined performance art through its emphasis on endurance, presence, and emotional connection. The interactive elements of her latest show, such as stone beds and crystalline structures, invite viewers to explore the boundaries between the physical and the metaphysical. This is a rare opportunity to witness the evolution of an artist whose work has consistently pushed the limits of creativity.
Finally, the National Gallery’s exhibition on Francisco de Zurbarán is a timely reminder of the enduring relevance of Baroque art. His ability to capture the spiritual and emotional essence of his subjects has made his works timeless, and this collection provides a rare chance to see a curated selection of his masterpieces. The show also features a bonus highlight: Nature is not a décor, a comparative exhibition that juxtaposes Monet’s impressionist landscapes with the works of ten contemporary artists. This project, running from 8 May to 18 October 2026 at the Maison Caillebotte in Yerres, France, is an exciting exploration of how nature has inspired generations of creators.
Whether you’re a fan of high-stakes action, reflective art, or immersive music experiences, this week in Europe has something to offer. From cinematic battles to boundary-pushing performances, the cultural calendar is packed with events that celebrate both the past and the future. Don’t miss the chance to engage with these diverse offerings, each of which provides a unique lens into the world of entertainment and creativity.
