If you think the Refinery29 UK culture and entertainment picks for December are heavy on film, that's simply because it's Oscar season, when all the film companies finally release their best work, hoping that it will create enough buzz to ensure a gold statue come February. Fortunately it's too cold to go out anyhow. Click though to see what we're excited about watching and listening to this month.
Natalie Gil, News Writer
Human Flow, in cinemas 8th December
This documentary from the Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei has received stellar reviews since it was shown at the Venice film festival this summer – and rightly so. While many films about refugees have understandably focused on Syria, this is a more expansive look at the crisis. I saw it at an advance cinema screening and am so glad I didn't settle for the small screen. Shot in 20 countries, the mind-blowing cinematography and drone shots deserve only the best viewing treatment.
N.E.R.D. No One Ever Really Dies, 15th December
When "Lemon" with Rihanna dropped earlier this month, I became hooked on watching people's choreography to the song on Youtube and the release of N.E.R.D's first album for seven years is bound to spawn more hypnotic videos. Not only that, but it features collaborations with some of my favourites: Future, Gucci Mane, Kendrick Lamar and (ahem) Ed Sheeran.
Gillian Orr, Content Director
Stronger, in cinemas 8th December
Come on Jake, you can get that Oscar. Gyllenhaal is quickly becoming the next DiCaprio in that he increasingly goes for big roles to showcase his acting chops but never gets recognised by the Academy. Will this film in which he stars as Jeff Bauman, who lost his legs in the Boston Marathon bombing, change their mind?
Liam Gallagher UK tour, from 3rd December
Watching Liam was the highlight of my Glastonbury; if you squint, it's basically just an Oasis gig. Noel might be my favourite bro but Liam's vocals will make you think you're actually watching the Britpop legends. Feel free to heckle when he plays his new solo stuff – everyone at Glastonbury was.
Georgia Murray, Fashion & News Writer
Star Wars: The Last Jedi, in cinemas 14th December
Sure, I may have only watched the Star Wars franchise last year - after much persuasion from a desperate boyfriend - but it’s fair to say I’m hooked. What’s not to love? With Carrie Fisher’s sassy no-nonsense attitude, John Boyega’s quips, Adam Driver being extremely brooding and sexy, and cute beepy robots, it’s the blockbuster we all need to switch off right now. Dun, dun, dun dun dun duuuuuuuun dun!
WORK IT, Omeara
As a South London resident who resents travelling north of the river at weekends, the news that WORK IT were now spinning their 90s R&B bangers in the better half of London was fantastic. Reviving the scene with their energy- and sweat-filled club nights since 2008, their new home will be Omeara, a club built to fight the cuts to London’s music scene. Long live London’s night life!
Jess Commons, Health & Living Editor
The Disaster Artist, in cinemas 1st December
I am THE biggest fan of the film The Room; widely regarded to be the worst best film ever made. I even went to a fan screening with it's seminal creator Tommy Wiseau, people throw plastic spoons, it's a whole thing. The Disaster Artist is about the making of The Room and stars James Franco as Tommy. Definitely watch the original beforehand so you get all the inside jokes. OH HI MARK.
The Dinner, in cinemas 8th December
I loved the Herman Koch book that this film is based on so I'm really hoping that the film does it justice. It's follows two brothers, (one pretty ordinary, one on track to be the next prime minister of Holland) and their wives as they meet up in a swanky restaurant to discuss the horrific crime their two teenage sons have committed. It stars Laura Linney, Richard Gere, Steve Coogan and Rebecca Hall.
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