Culture
The Essentials: Top Cultural Highlights In July
A smart cinematic blockbuster, a Britpop revival, a life-affirming festival and an excuse to do absolutely nothing – we’ve got everything you need this month, right here
THE WORD: Apricate
Do you hear that? No, not the planes whirring overhead as they ferry holidaymakers to far-away shores. Not the leaves whispering as they’re teased by a balmy breeze. Not the laughter of neighbour kids giddy with newfound freedom. We’re talking about something else, something quieter: the sound of our collective gears shifting down, into summer mode. The first full month of the languorous season, July is for appreciating the lazy joys of life: A juicy apricot. Bare feet in the grass. A post-picnic nap. An afternoon basking in the sun – apricating, for the pleasure-seeking wordsmiths among us. Derived from the Latin apricus, meaning ‘exposed to the sun’, apricate is not just the word we need this month, it’s a directive to drop what we’re doing and make time to truly relish the moment.
Perfect If: You’re really a hedonist at heart, and have even been known to appreciate an apricot as you apricate…
THE TV SHOW: Full Circle
Academy Award winner Steven Soderbergh returns to the television director’s chair for the first time in five years with this new crime thriller limited series premiering on 13 July on HBO Max. Starring Claire Danes, Zazie Beetz and Dennis Quaid, Full Circle’s six episodes will revolve around a kidnapping investigation that connects different characters and cultures from NYC to Guyana, perfectly exemplifying Soderbergh’s hallmarks: complex plot twists, intertwined storylines and a satisfying narrative arc – all in a gripping, binge-worthy show.
Perfect If: You’d rather go for the digital version of a sizzling beach read.
THE EVENT: Happy Place Festival
On the weekend of 15-16 July, best-selling broadcaster and happiness author Fearne Cotton will host the Happy Place Festival – the place to be for anyone looking to unwind, relax and nourish the mind with well-rounded, happiness-centred activities. From poetry and live music performances to creative art workshops, high-energy sessions, holistic therapies and massages, plus meditation classes for the littlest ones, visitors of all ages are guaranteed to leave feeling lighter – emotionally lighter, that is, because there’ll be good food, too. Can’t make it to London this month? Stay tuned for a second edition in September, or start your journey to self-love today by downloading the Happy Place app or listening to Cotton’s podcast.
Perfect If: Taking care of yourself is your happy place.
THE SMART BLOCKBUSTER: Oppenheimer
The new Christopher Nolan film. Those five words alone should be enough to ensure discerning cinephiles and action fans alike will be rushing to their nearest cinema (ideally an IMAX) on 13 July. Nolan’s twelfth film tells the story of Robert Oppenheimer, the man who led the Manhattan Project to create the first atomic bomb and who, depending on your perspective, is the figure who arguably saved the world or made certain its eventual doom.
Perfect If: You’re yearning for an event movie that you know will blow your mind, but won’t bomb at the box office…
THE DRAMEDY: The Miracle Club
Get ready to be swept away with laughter – and perhaps some tears – by The Miracle Club, an extraordinary Irish dramedy that showcases the brilliance of Laura Linney, Kathy Bates and Maggie Smith. Yes, all of them at once. Directed by Thaddeus O’Sullivan, this cinematic gem follows three indomitable women from a tranquil Irish village as they embark on a transformative pilgrimage to the French city of Lourdes. Brimming with wit, charm and the power of friendship, this uplifting tale is sure to tug at your heartstrings. When? 14 July.
Perfect If: We had you at “Laura Linney, Kathy Bates and Maggie Smith”.
THE RETURN: The Ballad of Darren – Blur
This 21 July release marks the English band’s first new album in eight years and coincides with a short reunion tour, which includes two sold-out nights at a little-known London venue called, ahem, Wembley Stadium, and ends in Bogotá, Colombia. With anticipation building for the return of Messrs Albarn, Coxon, James and Rowntree, fans and critics alike will be wondering whether this represents the final death rattle of Britpop or the glorious return of the last great art rock band.
Perfect If: You know that Blur’s reunion is sure to be more, much more, than just another tired rock nostalgia trip, and you’re stoked to hear their latest songs.
THE DRINK: The Pimm’s Cup
The return of Wimbledon and The Championships 2023 at the All England Lawn Tennis Club marks the start of the English summer for many. However, as exciting as the tennis invariably is, the magic of Wimbledon – weather permitting – is also a reminder of other non-sporting summer delights. Approaching two million strawberries are consumed each year at the event (with lashings of cream, of course), while those in search of a tempting summer tipple will be enthused by the prospect of a cool glass of Pimm’s. This gin-based drink is infused with herbs and botanicals as well as a hint of spice, and is mixed with fruit, mint and lemonade to make ‘The Pimm’s Cup’ – the definitive Wimbledon drink.
Perfect If: You celebrate Wimbledon tennis as an annual highlight of summer, and enjoy raising a glass in its honour at Pimm’s O’Clock.
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