Front Row

Mel Giedroyc and Sarah Crompton join Samira to review The Franchise, the new comedy series from Armando Iannucci offering a behind the scenes look at the filming of a superhero film franchise.They also review Tim Winton’s epic new novel Juice, set in the future of a climate change ravaged Australia. And Francois Ozon's new comedy film The Crime is Mine, which sees an actress charged with murder finding the courtroom the perfect place to launch her career starring Isabelle Huppert. Presenter: Samira Ahmed Producer: Corinna Jones

Rupert Everett, a celebrated actor and author, discusses his new short story collection, sharing insights on the challenges of navigating Hollywood's complexities. Carla J. Easton, musician and co-director of a documentary on Scotland's girl bands, highlights the empowering dynamics these bands bring to an often male-dominated industry. Everlyn Nicodemus, an acclaimed artist, articulates her belief that 'art is resurrection,' reflecting on her impactful retrospective at the National Galleries of Scotland.

Jodie Whittaker, known for her role as the Doctor in Doctor Who, discusses returning to the stage in a fresh take on The Duchess of Malfi, highlighting themes of power and autonomy. Curator Simon Wright and food expert Akemi Yokoyama delve into the artistry of Japan's hyper-realistic food replicas, showcasing their cultural significance. Baroness Ludford shares insights into the challenges of booking single theatre tickets. Canadian author Anne Michaels reflects on her Booker Prize-nominated novel, Held, weaving tales of love, grief, and the supernatural across generations.

Percival Everett, a Booker-shortlisted novelist, discusses his retelling of 'Huckleberry Finn' from Jim's perspective, shedding light on overlooked narratives. Laurie Belgrave and Matt Cain reminisce about Bronski Beat's 'Age of Consent,' exploring its legacy in LGBTQ+ culture and the upcoming concert celebrating this iconic album. Jessica Andrews and Matthew Dunster delve into the artistry of horror on stage, revealing the challenges of adapting 'Saint Maud' and the evolution of audience experiences in post-pandemic theater. A rich tapestry of stories and insights awaits!

In this engaging discussion, journalist Stephen Bush reviews the layered thriller 'Disclaimer' starring Cate Blanchett, exploring its moral dilemmas and emotional complexities. Theatre critic Kate Maltby dives into Alexander Zeldin's modern retelling of 'Antigone' with 'The Other Place,' reflecting on grief and family ties. Writer Max Porter celebrates Han Kang's Nobel Prize win, delving into her poignant prose and the themes of violence and understanding in human relationships. The blend of humor and critical insight makes for a compelling cultural commentary.

Booker Prize-shortlisted author Charlotte Wood discusses her novel, 'Stone Yard Devotional', which delves into themes of grief and resilience in a religious community. Esteemed art historian Alice Mann and artist Gavin Turk share insights on the profound influence of Surrealism over the past century, bridging historical trauma with contemporary art. Playwright Tim Price reveals his creative process behind 'Odyssey '84', linking the 1984 Miners' Strike with Homer's timeless narrative, highlighting community struggle and cultural resilience in Wales.

Rick Astley, the iconic singer-songwriter behind "Never Gonna Give You Up," shares insights from his memoir, reflecting on his unexpected rise to fame. Barbara Walker, a Turner Prize-nominated artist, discusses her powerful exhibition "Being Here," capturing the Black British experience. TV critic Scott Bryan and columnist Sonia Sodha examine the 25th anniversary of "The West Wing," exploring its lasting impact on political culture and discourse. Tune in for personal stories, artistic journeys, and cultural reflections!

Alison Moyet joins us in the studio to talk about her career, from Yazoo to going solo and a new album.Fashion renegades of the 1980s via Leigh Bowery, Taboo and the Blitz nightclub, we take a look at a new exhibition with Pam Hogg and Sue Tilley.War Horse composer Adrian Sutton on going back to his classical roots with his latest composition, a violin concerto.Presenter: Samira Ahmed Producer: Corinna Jones

This week's big cinema release Joker: Folie a Deux is under scrutiny from Tom Sutcliffe's reviewers, broadcaster Ayesha Hazarika and film critic Tim Robey. They have also read Alan Hollinghurst's new novel Our Evenings. Gramophone Artist of the Year soprano Carolyn Sampson performs in the Front Row studio - and on National Poetry Day Tom and the critics pick their favourite poems. Presenter: Tom Sutcliffe Producer: Paula McGrath

Bestselling writer Paula Hawkins, whose book The Girl on the Train was a publishing phenomenon back in 2015, discusses her latest novel, The Blue Hour, a thriller set in the contemporary art world. As a new book of photographs of America by Magnum photographers is published, two photographers discuss the role of photojournalism in the contemporary world. And as three exhibitions of Tape Letters from the British Asian community open, we hear about the little-known custom of conducting conversations via audio cassette between the UK and Pakistan.Presenter: Kirsty Wark Producer: Mark Crossan