24/09/2009

Available for over a year

What's happening in the Swedish Literary Scene As Sweden's biggest book fair opens in Gothenberg the show is being stolen by a bitter literary debate that has divided the country's writers and readers. The London Correspondent of Sweden's Dagens Nyhete tells The Strand all. Istanbul Biennale The Turkish city of Istanbul is hosting its 11th Biennale, showcasing the work of 70 artists from around the world. But with literally hundreds of Biennales around the world and the increasing globalisation of art, how important really is the host city? Dorian Jones reports on how Istanbul is striving to be different and carving itself a niche in this new art world. Http://www.iksv.org/bienal/english/bienal.asp?cid=85 Je Veux Voir A road movie with a difference from Lebanon. The Lebanese actor Rabih Mroué escorts screen icon Catherine Deneuve to witness the devastation caused by the recent war, but as they proceed further into the damaged areas their intrepid excursion becomes an unpredictable, unexpected adventure. Joana Hadjithomas & Khalil Joreige directed the film and tell us why they came up with the idea. Paul Dini and his Batman If you've always dreamed of being a superhero, now's your chance to take on the role of the Caped Crusader in the new Batman video game, just released. Arkham Asylum is being hailed as the best Batman game ever made, with brooding characters and gothic atmosphere similar to a movie experience. The Strand talks to Emmy-award winning writer Paul Dini about his creation of a game for the ultimate Batman fan.