This year promises a rich array of cultural offerings across film, music, art and theatre, according to Observer critics. From highly anticipated movies to major exhibitions and stage productions, there is plenty to look forward to.
In cinema, three films are generating significant buzz. Yorgos Lanthimos's Poor Things (12 January) is a feminist reworking of Alasdair Gray's novel, starring Emma Stone. Andrew Haigh's All of Us Strangers (26 January) features Andrew Scott in a heartbreaking story based on Taichi Yamada's novel. Jonathan Glazer's The Zone of Interest (2 February) is a chilling portrayal of life near Auschwitz, notable for its sound design.
Music fans can look forward to Taylor Swift's Eras tour arriving in the UK in June, following the record-breaking concert film. Olivia Rodrigo will tour in May, supporting her album Guts. Girls Aloud are reuniting for a tour in memory of Sarah Harding, and Dua Lipa is expected to release a new album with a possible summer tour.
The National Gallery marks its bicentenary with Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers (14 September to 19 January 2025), a major exhibition exploring the painter's time in Provence, featuring loans including Starry Night.
Theatre highlights include Matthew Broderick and Sarah Jessica Parker starring in Plaza Suite (Savoy, 17 January to 31 March), and Michael Sheen playing Aneurin Bevan in Nye (Olivier, 24 February to 11 May), a surreal look at the NHS founder's life.
