Your brief - 24h (11 articles)

The Hollywood Reporter reports that John Lodge, the Moody Blues bassist, singer, and songwriter, has passed away at the age of 82. Lodge, who contributed to hits like Nights in White Satin and Ride My See-Saw, was a pivotal figure in the evolution of progressive rock. His family revealed that he died peacefully, surrounded by the melodies of his favorites, including the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly. Lodge’s contributions to music spanned over 50 years, earning him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. As noted by Variety, his work symbolized an era when rock music ventured into profound, orchestral territories, bridging classical influences with contemporary soundscapes. Source 8 Source 13 Source 38

According to France24, Femi Kuti, the Grammy-nominated Nigerian Afrobeat musician, has been captivating audiences in 2025 with his latest album, A Journey Through Life. The album, described as both joyous and critical, reflects Kuti's deep engagement with sociopolitical themes and his late father’s heritage, the legendary Fela Kuti. As Kuti prepares for special tributes to his father this month, the album stands as a testament to his ability to blend vibrant rhythms with poignant critiques of global and local issues. This work highlights the enduring power of Afrobeat as a genre of both celebration and resistance. Source 5

Le Figaro reports that the Cinémathèque Française is hosting an expansive retrospective dedicated to the revolutionary filmmaker Orson Welles. Through storyboards, press articles, and film accessories, the exhibition offers a comprehensive look into Welles’ multifaceted career. Known as a maverick of cinema, Welles’ works like Citizen Kane are celebrated for their groundbreaking narrative techniques and visual storytelling. The retrospective also sheds light on his lesser-known talents, such as his love for literature and his career as a magician. This initiative reinforces Welles’ enduring legacy as a pioneer who defied conventions in both art and life. Source 19

Hollywood Reporter highlights the latest project by Korean auteur Park Chan-wook, No Other Choice, a black comedy thriller starring Lee Byung-hun. Park, renowned for films like Oldboy and The Handmaiden, delves into themes of capitalism and self-delusion in this long-anticipated work. The director’s penchant for blending dark humor with poignant social commentary has earned him critical acclaim, and this new film is already generating Oscar buzz. The project underscores Park’s mastery in navigating the intersection of genre and societal critique, making him one of the most influential filmmakers of his time. Source 37

The Guardian reveals the discovery of an unpublished 1957 manuscript by Jack Kerouac, titled The Holy, Beat, and Crazy Next Thing. Found in the archives of an assassinated Mafia boss, the two-page typewritten story is believed to be a “lost chapter” of his seminal work, On the Road. This remarkable find offers a rare glimpse into Kerouac’s creative process during a pivotal moment in his career. The manuscript’s emergence raises questions about the intersection of art, legacy, and the unexpected places where cultural treasures can reside. Source 40

Variety reports on the release of the trailer for Mahabharat: Ek Dharmayudh, an AI-powered retelling of the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata. Developed by Collective Media Network, this project employs cutting-edge AI technology to reimagine the classic narrative with contemporary aesthetics. By merging tradition with innovation, the series seeks to introduce this monumental tale to new audiences while retaining its timeless moral and spiritual lessons. The project exemplifies the evolving role of technology in preserving and transforming cultural heritage. Source 35

As reported by Variety, the Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth is championing a new generation of Arab filmmakers. Young talents, equipped with mobile phones and AI-powered editing tools, are redefining storytelling in the Middle East. Fourteen-year-old filmmaker Fajer Saeed Alyileili exemplifies this movement, showcasing how digital-first approaches are democratizing creativity. This festival underscores the transformative power of technology in amplifying regional voices and narratives. Source 15

France24 examines the ethical challenges faced by journalists in reporting on the Gaza conflict. During a discussion on the program Scoop, journalist Dalia Hatuqa emphasized the impact of language on shaping public perception. The segment highlighted the need for careful terminology to avoid dehumanization and bias in media narratives. This debate reflects broader concerns about the responsibilities of the press in conflicts and the power of storytelling to influence international discourse. Source 22

The Guardian reports on calls for the UK government to issue a general pardon for women executed for witchcraft during the 16th and 17th centuries. A council leader has written to the Home Secretary, arguing that these convictions were rooted in superstition and misogyny. The case of seven women hanged in 1652 in Kent exemplifies the tragic consequences of such baseless accusations. Revisiting these injustices invites reflection on how historical wrongs can inform contemporary efforts toward equality and justice. Source 10