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The Dystopian Vision of 2028 Los AngelesBrimming with indelible images, Charlotte Zhang's brilliant debut locates the roots of a dystopian future in the here and now. Set around the 2028 Summer Olympics, the film imagines a Los Angeles gripped by paranoia and conspiracies; and a livestock disease has led to a ban on all meat production, leaving the main source of protein distribution – powdered insects – in the control of a megacorporation called Ootheca Inc. Ironically enough, a cockroach infestation has taken over several local neighbourhoods, making Ootheca's monopolising greed even more insidious.A Human Story of Survival Amid Corporate ControlAll of this might sound pretty out there, yet the heart of Tycoon is a deeply human story of survival. Both hustlers up for any challenge, Lito (Miguel Padilla-Juarez) and Jay (Jon Lawrence Reyes) take advantage of the widespread chaos to embark on a series of petty crimes, including breaking into an Ootheca trailer to steal boxes of the precious protein powder. Their escapades are dynamically rendered on a variety of formats including handheld DV camera and Super 8, as well as Xerox art. But compared to other film-makers who favour this DIY style, Zhang is beautifully attentive to blocking and composition. Scenes of house parties, twilight rides against the setting sun, or high-rev street drifting harmonise into a stunning city symphony, in which a visual rhythm gradually emerges from disorder.Political Implications in a Corporate-Dominated WorldBeneath the seemingly casual tone of the visuals, there are also serious political implications. As Latino men living in a time of state-sanctioned racial violence, Lito and Jay are enfolded in economic precarity and constant surveillance. That they choose to game the system rather than waiting to be squashed by it – like Ootheca's crushed insects – is wonderfully empowering. Zhang occasionally makes explicit these political allusions by way of text intertitles, which sometimes feel a little awkward; still, when is a better time to deliver a manifesto than in one's first film?Where to Experience This Visionary DebutTycoon is at the ICA, London from 22 May.

From Anna Forbes to Glasgow Therapist: A Personal JourneyThe Guardian revisits Daniela Nardini nearly three decades after her breakout role as Anna Forbes in This Life. Once a cultural touchstone of late‑90s Britain, she now runs a therapy practice in the West End of Glasgow, offering a quiet contrast to the sharp, messy character that once defined her.Viewership Numbers and Awards Highlight Nardini’s Early Impact3.5 million viewers tuned in to This Life at its peak, making the series a BBC Two hit.1998: Nardini earned a BAFTA for her performance.2009: She won a Scottish BAFTA for the film New Town.These figures cemented her status as a role model for a generation of young women navigating the “work‑hard, play‑hard” ethos of the era.How Mid‑life Transitions Reshape Identity in the Public EyeAfter the series ended, Nardini faced a series of personal upheavals: the death of her father Aldo, the dissolution of her marriage to restaurateur Ivan Stein, and a breast‑cancer diagnosis that required a mastectomy and reconstruction. The experience prompted her to retrain as a therapist seven years ago, a shift she describes as more than a simple “pivot.”Her clients, predominantly women in midlife, benefit from her lived experience of grief, loss and bodily change, giving her practice a uniquely empathetic edge.What Lies Ahead for Nardini’s Dual Career PathLooking forward, Nardini plans to continue blending her artistic sensibility with therapeutic work, using creative outlets such as painting to process trauma. While she does not anticipate a resurgence of Anna Forbes‑related clientele, she remains open to occasional acting projects that align with her new perspective.As she approaches her 60th birthday, Nardini embodies a narrative of resilience: “quite a lot happened in my 50s,” she reflects, suggesting that the next decade will be defined by the strength she has cultivated through both fame and personal adversity.

Lead: A Treasure Trove of Keaton’s Life on DisplayThe upcoming Bonhams auction, titled Diane Keaton: The Architecture of an Icon, will feature an astonishing array of the actress’s personal ephemera – from a massive wall collage to vintage clothing and a handwritten Annie Hall script – giving collectors a window into her creative world.Bonhams Unveils Keaton’s Eclectic Collage and Wardrobe for West Hollywood SaleDuring a Friday preview in West Hollywood, visitors could walk along a near‑full‑wall collage that Keaton assembled over decades, peppered with Parisian photo‑booth snaps, Victorian mugshots, a fake ear with acupuncture points and a menu from a defunct California gambling den. The display also included signed photos of Al Pacino, original film scripts and a selection of her beloved clothing.Auction Preview Highlights: Over 150 Lots and Estimated Script ValuationsMore than 150 lots of clothing, accessories and artwork will be offered.Signature items include a black bowler hat, a sequined Gucci suit and a 2020 Oscars Ralph Lauren tuxedo.The original Annie Hall script is estimated to fetch between $2,000 and $3,000.Other notable pieces: drawings by David Wojnarowicz, a sketch by Jack Nicholson, and a metal wastebasket of black‑and‑white polka‑dot wrapping paper.What the Sale Reveals About Celebrity Collecting and Hollywood NostalgiaKeaton’s archive underscores a shift among Hollywood elites toward curating personal histories rather than purely monetary assets. By displaying items the way she kept them – in glass boxes, themed groupings and lived‑in garments – Bonhams highlights the emotional resonance that drives demand for authentic, story‑rich memorabilia.Future Outlook: Potential Market for Iconic Film MemorabiliaThe live New York auction on 8 June is expected to attract both film aficionados and high‑net‑worth collectors, potentially setting new benchmarks for script and costume valuations. Success could encourage more estates of celebrated actors to monetize their personal archives, further blurring the line between personal nostalgia and commercial art.

The LeadScars of war are laid bare in daylight across Sudan’s capital, yet signs of recovery are visible along the city’s roads. While rubble is being cleared and traffic slowly returning, the reality of life in Khartoum is a stark contrast between bustling commercial strips and ghostly residential districts. Refugees and displaced residents are returning cautiously, as official statements about normalcy often clash with the ground realities.The Fragmented Heart of KhartoumThe city’s recovery is highly uneven, with wealthy districts remaining largely deserted. Areas such as Garden City, Manshiya, Riyadh, Taif, Maamoura, Arkawit, and Mujahideen in the south see little to no activity. In central Khartoum, the silence over the ruined Arab Market and city centre is profound, with most ministries and institutions still empty.However, pockets of life persist. Along Freedom Street, known for electrical appliances, and Sixty Street, a major link between north and south, shops, banks, and restaurants have reopened. Yet, the residential areas behind these commercial hubs remain quiet by day and shrouded in darkness at night due to power outages.The Ghost Towns and Booming SuburbsResident return is cautious, influenced by factors such as income, education, healthcare, and psychological trauma. Interestingly, the Karari locality in northern Omdurman has seen significant growth. As the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) were absent during the war, Karari has inherited the commercial and institutional role of Khartoum, making it a relative beneficiary of the conflict.The real estate market reflects this instability. A growing supply of homes for sale is attracting buyers, particularly in eastern districts. Property prices have fallen by 30 to 40 percent, depending on location and condition. Most buyers are traders and businesspeople looking to capitalize on low prices, though they prefer ready-built properties due to high construction costs.The Economic Strain of SurvivalFor families returning to Khartoum, daily life has become a struggle. Prices shift rapidly amid a severe economic crisis. A common phrase among shoppers is “every day brings a new increase,” forcing families to reduce consumption or rely on debt and remittances.Bread Crisis: The staple has become a burden, rising to five times its pre-war level.Imports: Most goods are imported from Egypt by land and Saudi Arabia by sea.Transport: Rising costs and worn-out buses add to the burden, though digital payments are becoming ubiquitous.The Future OutlookDespite the hardships, residents are determined to restore their way of life. The real estate market may see a rebound within a year if prices return to pre-war levels, but the psychological scars of the war and the ongoing instability in the capital will likely delay a full return for many families for the foreseeable future.

The Lead For NBA players, superstitions are more than just quirky habits - they're a way to gain a mental edge on the court. From lucky socks to pre-game rituals, these superstitions have become an integral part of the game's culture. Superstitions in the NBA Jason Terry, a former NBA champion and six-time NBA All-Star, is known for his colorful superstitions. In 1997, before the NCAA national championship game, Terry and his teammate Mike Bibby wore their full uniforms to bed. They won the game, and Terry was hooked on superstitions. Terry would wear long, high socks with 'CATS' written on them during college games. In the NBA, he wore a headband to honor his mentor Slick Watts. He'd also wear the opposing team's shorts to bed before a game. The Data Analysis While there's no concrete data on the impact of superstitions on game outcomes, players like Terry and Eldridge Recasner swear by their pre-game rituals. Recasner would take a nap on game days and follow a specific pre-game warmup routine. He'd also salute the flag during games, remembering his father who passed away. The Impact Analysis Superstitions have affected play throughout NBA history. Players like Ray Allen, Michael Jordan, and Rajon Rondo have all had their own unique superstitions. Allen would shave his head at the same time every day before games. Jordan wore his University of North Carolina shorts under his Chicago Bulls uniform. Rondo liked to shower five times on game days. The Prediction As the NBA continues to evolve, it's likely that superstitions will remain a part of the game's culture. While some may not work out, players will continue to find new and creative ways to gain a mental edge on the court.

The Flood Crisis in Southern and Central China At least 10 people have died after heavy rains caused widespread flooding and landslides across southern and central China. Weather Alerts and Warnings The China Meteorological Administration (CMA) maintained elevated orange alerts on Tuesday for heavy rain and severe stormy weather, warning that the huge precipitation system has entered its strongest, most destructive stage. Flood Control and Emergency Response China’s State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters officially activated a Level-IV emergency response, the initial tier to accelerate state-level disaster relief for floods, in Hunan and Guangxi, while maintaining the same emergency tier for Hubei, Chongqing, and Guizhou. Impact of the Floods The torrential downpours have shattered multiple local historical records, particularly in the central Hubei province. State broadcaster CCTV reported that 337 townships in Hubei recorded more than 100mm of rain within a 48-hour window. In Guangxi, six people died after a pick-up truck carrying 15 passengers fell into a swollen river amid heavy rainfall. In Hubei, three people were killed by flash floods in a low-lying village. Another death was recorded in southern Hunan province. Relocation and Emergency Measures Authorities have suspended schools, businesses, and transport services in affected areas. Emergency responses are under way, and residents in parts of Hubei and Hunan are actively being relocated. Cause of the Unusually Large Rainfall Meteorologists attributed the unusually large area of intense rainfall to the convergence of moisture from the Bay of Bengal, the South China Sea, and the Pacific Ocean. They said the slow-moving nature of the weather system had exacerbated cumulative rainfall totals. Forecast and Future Outlook The National Meteorological Centre expects severe weather to move east and south over the next two days, with the heaviest rainfall forecast along the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River from Wednesday.

The Rise of a Genre-Defying Artist Ecca Vandal, the Australian punk-rap sensation, has been making waves in the music industry with her unique sound and authentic approach to artistry. After a four-year hiatus from the public eye, she returns with her second album, "Looking For People to Unfollow," a project that showcases her evolution as an artist while staying true to her genre-blending roots. The album represents her search for genuine connection in an increasingly digital world, featuring a powerful voice equally at home on hip-hop hooks and punk howls. The Making of "Looking For People to Unfollow" The album's creation was a journey of artistic rediscovery. Vandal and her partner Richie Buxton began working on the project in their Melbourne apartment before moving to Buxton's parents' garage to avoid noise complaints and, more importantly, to disconnect from the internet. This intentional isolation allowed Vandal to explore her most raw lyrical self, channeling emotions and experiences as a woman of color against the backdrop of global events like the murder of George Floyd. The album's core theme is a "search for true connection" and "trying to fight against the faux-sincerity of the online world." Career Milestones and Industry Recognition Vandal's ascent has been marked by significant milestones. After releasing standout singles like "Cruising to Self Soothe" and "Bleed But Never Die," she received a DM from Limp Bizkit's Fred Durst inviting her to tour in early 2025. This opportunity led her to leave Australia for the first time, taking a significant risk on her career. The tour resulted in vocal support from artists including Shirley Manson, SZA, Travis Barker, and Paramore's Hayley Williams, culminating in her Coachella debut in April 2026. Her journey has also included memorable encounters with industry legends like Flea, with whom she shared tea in Los Angeles, and Tony Hawk, who gifted her a signed skateboard inspired by her music. Cultural Identity and Musical Authenticity Born in South Africa to Sri Lankan parents who fled civil war, Vandal's multicultural background deeply influences her artistry. Growing up as "the only Brown kid" in Melbourne, she found belonging through music, studying jazz at the Victorian College of the Arts. Her Sri Lankan identity is subtly woven into her work, including her wearing a saree in the "Bleed But Never Die" video. Despite her parents' initial concerns about her financial survival as a musician, Vandal has carved out a unique space in the industry, refusing to be confined to a single genre despite industry pressure to "pick a lane." The Future of Genre-Bending Music As Vandal continues to gain international recognition, her approach to music offers a refreshing counterpoint to the industry's increasing focus on short, viral content. By celebrating "long form" in an era of 15-second snippets, she's challenging listeners to engage more deeply with artistic expression. With her powerful voice, genre-defying style, and commitment to authentic storytelling, Ecca Vandal represents a new generation of artists who are redefining success on their own terms. As she navigates the complexities of fame while staying true to her artistic vision, her journey suggests that the future of music may lie in embracing diversity and authenticity over commercial categorization.

AI‑Generated Meme Campaign Targets Albanese Over CGT ReformAnthony Albanese responded to a wave of AI‑crafted images that humorously placed him in various trades, thanking the creators for the “very flattering” photos. The memes were produced by tech founders protesting the federal budget’s proposed changes to capital gains tax.Proposed CGT Changes: 30% Minimum Rate and Cost‑Base IndexationRemoval of the existing 50% tax discount on capital gains.Introduction of “cost‑base indexation”, taxing profits after inflation.Establishment of a minimum 30% tax rate on gains from property, shares and other assets.Startup Community Warns of Investment FlightIndependent senators representing Australia’s startup hubs, including David Pocock, warned that the higher CGT could push innovative firms and tech talent offshore. Early‑stage companies that rely on equity incentives fear a “chilling effect” on employee share schemes and founder exits.Political Reactions and Calls for Wider ConsultationDavid Pocock urged the government to conduct deep consultation to avoid offshoring of investment.MPs Allegra Spender and Monique Ryan backed broader tax reforms but cautioned against applying the new CGT rules to startups.Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government remains open to carve‑outs for new businesses.Outlook: Balancing Revenue Needs with Startup GrowthWhile the Treasury downplays the meme campaign, the debate highlights a tension between raising revenue and maintaining Australia’s “startup capital” status. If the government does not adjust the proposal, it may face pressure from the tech sector to introduce concessional CGT rates or other incentives to keep venture activity domestic.

The Labor Standoff at SoFi StadiumWorkers at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles have decided to go on strike if federal immigration enforcement agents are deployed at the venue when it hosts FIFA World Cup matches in June and July. The UNITE HERE Local 11 – a labour union representing some 2,000 hospitality employees – on Monday demanded federal guarantees that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would not be used during the matches scheduled at the stadium.World Cup at the World's Most Expensive ArenaThe venue, which will be known as the Los Angeles Stadium during the tournament, will host eight World Cup games, including the opening fixture for the United States on June 12. Workers at the world's most expensive sports arena say the ICE presence would create a climate of fear for themselves and for fans.Union Demands and Worker Concerns"ICE should have no role in these games," said Isaac Martinez, a stadium cook, at a protest outside the venue. "We do not want to live in fear coming to work, or fear being detained going home." Martinez added that if no agreement is reached, he and his colleagues are ready to strike. The workforce is composed largely of food and beverage concession staff.Workers on Monday also raised alarms over FIFA's accreditation process, which requires employees to submit personal data before the tournament, which runs from June 11 to July 19 across the US, Canada and Mexico. "We ask FIFA not to share our information with ICE agencies, foreign countries, or intelligence services," worker Yolanda Fierro said.ICE Controversy and Political ResponseICE has led the charge in President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown. Human rights groups have condemned the agency for its conduct during raids in several US cities, including Los Angeles last year. In early 2026, ICE agents fatally shot two American protesters in Minneapolis.Protesters carrying plastic balls and signs reading "Kick ICE Out of the World Cup" drew support from Tom Steyer, a Democratic candidate in California's gubernatorial race. "ICE's mandate is border control," the financier-turned-politician said. "Can anyone explain what that has to do with the World Cup? Nothing. How is it possible that this is the agency that is going to be here when we know in fact they're an absolute threat, a lawless threat, to workers in California?"Potential Fallout for the World CupThe standoff between workers and authorities could potentially disrupt one of the most anticipated sporting events in the world. With the opening match for the United States scheduled at SoFi Stadium on June 12, any strike action would create significant logistical challenges and could impact the tournament's opening ceremonies. FIFA and local organizers now face the difficult task of addressing worker concerns while maintaining security for the global event.