Summer in Europe often brings a slower pace, but this week's cultural calendar offers a rich mix of new releases, exhibitions, and films that span decades and genres. From a legendary rock band's latest album to a demonic horror sequel and a thoughtful exploration of mental health, there is something to engage every taste.
Music: The Rolling Stones Return with 'Foreign Tongues'
On 10 July, The Rolling Stones release their 25th studio album, Foreign Tongues. Following Paul McCartney's recent nostalgic outing, the Stones deliver a record that draws on their eclectic influences across decades. The album features 14 tracks and an impressive roster of collaborators, including Robert Smith, Paul McCartney, Chad Smith, and Steve Winwood. While the cover art has raised eyebrows, the music itself promises a retro blend of styles that reflects the band's enduring versatility. For more on the band's recent commentary, see our piece on Keith Richards calling America 'a disappointment'.
Film: 'Evil Dead Burn' Brings Demonic Horror to Cinemas
From 10 July, horror fans can catch Evil Dead Burn, the latest instalment in Sam Raimi's cult franchise. Directed by Sébastien Vanicek (known for Infested), the film follows a young woman (Luciane Buchanan) who visits her in-laws at a remote cabin after her husband's death. The Book of the Dead makes an unwelcome appearance, unleashing brutal demonic possession. Following 2023's Evil Dead Rise, this third reboot entry continues the series' tradition of visceral gore and trauma-driven themes. As fans might say: groovy.
Exhibitions: Mental Health and the Little Prince
In London, the Wellcome Collection opens Better Health: Audrey Amiss & Rudy Loewe from 9 July 2026 to 7 February 2027. The exhibition features works by two British artists who address the challenges of mental health care. The late Audrey Amiss used art to cope with her stays in psychiatric wards, while non-binary artist Rudy Loewe explores prejudices faced by Black patients today. With over a billion people worldwide living with mental health disorders, according to the WHO, the show highlights the long, underfunded road to healing.
In Paris, the Atelier des Lumières presents The Little Prince: The Immersive Odyssey until 13 September 2026, marking the 80th anniversary of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's novella. The exhibition uses digital art to bring Saint-Exupéry's watercolours and poetic text to life across the venue's walls. While 'immersive' can sometimes be a gimmick, the Atelier des Lumières has a track record of thoughtful storytelling, making this a fitting tribute for both children and adults seeking a return to fictional wonder.
Streaming: 'Little House on the Prairie' Gets a Gritty Reboot
Netflix releases a new adaptation of Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House on the Prairie on 9 July. Unlike the cosy 1970s TV series, this version takes a grittier approach, focusing on survival and the harder themes of Wilder's books. It follows a family of 19th-century American pioneers adjusting to a new life on the frontier.
Also streaming from 9 July on Sky Atlantic is The Five Star Weekend, based on Elin Hilderbrand's 2023 novel. Starring Jennifer Garner and Chloë Sevigny, the drama centres on friends gathering in the wake of grief.
For more on European cultural events this week, see our roundup of Pan-African art, Spielberg's alien thriller, and Olivia Rodrigo's new album.
