It is snowing in London ❄️
What to do in London this week?
Discover what London has to offer this week—from art exhibitions and unique dining spots to film recommendations and moments of inspiration. Whether you're braving the city streets or staying cozy at home, there's something for everyone in this guide.
What to see: Francis Bacon: Human Presence
📍 Where: National Portrait Gallery, London
📅 When: Until January 19, 2025
Explore the evolution of Francis Bacon’s approach to portraiture at the National Portrait Gallery’s exhibition Francis Bacon: Human Presence. The collection spans his early works to his iconic depictions of the human figure, revealing his distinct perspective on psychology and physicality.
This exhibition offers a rare chance to see how Bacon’s art captures the intensity and vulnerability of the human condition. Perfect for art lovers looking to dive into one of the 20th century’s most compelling artistic minds.
What to watch: Anora
Are you looking for a film to watch in London this week? Don’t miss the British premiere of Anora. Often described as a mix of Pretty Woman and Pulp Fiction, it’s a sharp, darkly comedic story with unforgettable characters and biting dialogue.
Anora—also known as Ani or Anora Mikheeva—is a stripper in a New York club (though at times the setting feels like small-town America, and occasionally like Moscow’s urban sprawl). With rhinestone-studded nails, a Russian grandmother, and a mink coat, she epitomises the Slavic archetype of a woman who “can stop a galloping horse.” She refuses to walk five minutes in heels, is fiercely proud, and transforms instantly from a sweet, soft-spoken woman into a domineering Rublyovka wife to her caricature of a husband, Vanya Zakharov.
Vanya is every cliché of wealth and entitlement rolled into one: a rich father, a Fendi phone case, Gucci tracksuits, and a godfather straight out of an Armenian mafia stereotype. In one pivotal scene, an orange scarf—initially used to tie up Ani during one of her dramatic outbursts—becomes a recurring symbol. Later, it’s given to her by Igor (played by the phenomenal Yuri Borisov) for warmth, only to be thrown back in contempt at her cartoonishly disapproving mother-in-law, Galina Stepanovna.
And then there’s Igor. Yuri Borisov, with his earnest, puppy-dog eyes, plays a bouncer with broken English and unshakable moral principles. “I am not gopnik,” he humbly asserts, delivering one of the film’s most memorable lines. Trust me, the world is about to fall in love with Yuri Borisov—and for good reason.
On the surface, Anora is a drama, but it’s also a sharp, biting comedy. The humour often comes from the characters' absurdities and the unique blend of cultures portrayed on screen. And one thing is certain: Russian swear words are untranslatable.
What to listen: Synecdoche Montauk Acoustic Concert
📍 Where: St Giles Cripplegate, Barbican Complex
📅 When: November 23
🎟️ Tickets here
For a truly atmospheric evening, catch Savva Rozanov, performing under the alias Synecdoche Montauk, in an intimate acoustic concert at St Giles Cripplegate. This unique venue within the Barbican complex provides a compelling backdrop for Rozanov’s music, which blends elements of art-pop, indie-folk, and neo-soul.
Known for his immersive performances, Rozanov strips back the studio textures in his acoustic sets, revealing the raw, layered beauty of his lyrics and melodies. This format creates an intimate, vulnerable connection with the audience, amplifying the fragility and emotional depth of his work.
Perfect for those seeking a reflective and moving musical experience.
What to see: Highgate Cemetery
For a cultural detour in North London, take a stroll through Highgate Cemetery, a Victorian landmark known for its atmospheric charm and famous residents. Naturally, I went there for one reason—to pay a visit to Karl Marx’s grave. The experience comes with a £7 entry fee, a detail that would undoubtedly amuse Marx himself with its capitalist irony.
The cemetery, aside from housing the graves of notable figures, also caters to the living. There’s a coffee shop, a water fountain for dogs, and—most surprisingly—a gift shop. The highlight? Honey from the cemetery’s own beehives. A truly unexpected souvenir that’s as much a part of the ecosystem as the cemetery itself. Perfect for those who enjoy their cultural landmarks with a dash of irony.
Where to Eat: Aba Ra
Craving Georgian food? Head to Aba Ra in Shoreditch, where khachapuri is a religion, khinkali are a competitive sport, and the wine flows like a Black Sea breeze. It's the kind of place where you can pretend you're deep in the Caucasus mountains while actually sitting among Shoreditch hipsters debating sourdough fermentation. Perfect for when you want dumplings, cheese, and a slight existential crisis about how much bread you're eating.
Where to Drink: A Bar with Shapes for a Name
If you’re in the mood for something abstract, try A Bar with Shapes for a Name. With its minimalist interior and cocktails that could double as art installations, it’s like stepping into a Bauhaus manifesto with a splash of Malevich. Think geometric glassware, bold flavors, and just enough pretentiousness to make you feel cultured while sipping your deconstructed martini.
What to Watch: A NY Day with Marc Jacobs and Jerry Saltz
For a dose of art, nostalgia, and New York charm, check out A NY Day with Marc Jacobs and Jerry Saltz by Vogue.
Follow designer Marc Jacobs and art critic Jerry Saltz as they stroll through the city, reflecting on their teenage years, the life-changing allure of The Met, and the personal meaning of art. Their candid conversation offers a heartfelt reminder that life often unfolds in unexpected ways.
Perfect for a quick morning pick-me-up with a side of NYC magic. 🗽☕
P.S. Of course, this all sounds wonderful, but let’s be honest—since it’s snowing outside, staying home with a cozy blanket and a delivery order might be the better option. Sometimes, art is best enjoyed from the comfort of your couch.