Welcome to this week's entertainment roundup! We've got a diverse mix of art, literature, and gaming news to keep you entertained.
PhotoVogue Celebrates Nature
The ninth annual PhotoVogue festival is currently underway, showcasing stunning photography that celebrates the natural world. From whimsical images of monkeys relaxing in hammocks to creative parrot-inspired headwear, the festival offers a "love letter to the natural world" through the lens of talented photographers.
This year's exhibition promises to be a visual feast, offering a unique perspective on our relationship with the environment. It's a reminder of the beauty and fragility of the world around us, captured through the power of art.
Literary Highlights: "Maurice and Maralyn" and "Alive"
Sophie Elmhirst, a writer for The Guardian, has won the prestigious Nero Gold prize for her debut book, "Maurice and Maralyn: An Extraordinary True Story of Shipwreck, Survival and Love." The book tells the incredible true story of a couple who survived 118 days at sea after their boat was struck by a whale in the 1970s.
Bill Bryson, chair of the judging panel, praised the book for reaching "the highest literary eminence." Elmhirst received a £30,000 award at a ceremony in London.
We also take a look at "Alive" by Gabriel Weston, a revelatory exploration of human anatomy. Weston, a doctor, blends science, history, art, and personal experiences to offer a fresh perspective on the human body. The book challenges traditional anatomy textbooks by emphasizing the importance of context and the human experience.
"The truth of the body is as much about storytelling as it is about anatomy," argues Weston in her compelling work.
Weston argues that understanding the body requires more than just anatomical knowledge; it requires an appreciation for the stories our bodies tell.
What's the Most Influential Video Game?
Bafta is currently running a public survey to determine the most influential video game of all time. The survey highlights the impact of early groundbreaking titles like Space Invaders and Pong, which laid the foundation for the gaming industry. However, the survey also acknowledges the profound personal impact that games can have on individuals.
For many, the most influential games are those that challenged their perceptions of what games could be. Bafta's survey seeks to capture these diverse perspectives and celebrate the unique impact of video games on culture.
Whether it's the artistic expression of PhotoVogue, the captivating storytelling of "Maurice and Maralyn," the insightful exploration of "Alive," or the interactive world of video games, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this week's entertainment roundup.