Published: 09 September 2010
by DAN CARRIER

FRITZ Lang’s Metropolis, the cinematic calling card of early 20th-century modernism, has been re-mastered, restored and generally spring-cleaned – the results are on big screens tomorrow (Friday), and can be seen at various venues, including the ICA. 

And if you are heading down to The Mall, grab some tickets to the ICA’s Dissent season. Running till the end of October, it studies the relationship between art and political and social protest, and offers documentaries from around the world considering the responsibility artists have to drive political thought. Films consider concepts such as individual freedom and social responsibility. It may sound heavy but includes some truly beautiful and funny offerings. Check out the Russian collective of writers and other arty types who have made Chto Delat? (What Is To Be Done?) which considers collectivism in post-Soviet Russia, done with a massive smile on its face. 

Meanwhile, I hear that Stephen Frears will be talking  about Tamara Drewe at the Phoenix in East Finchley tomorrow (Friday) at 6.15pm. This may be exciting on its own, but it gets even better – this screening will be the first in the newly restored cinema, the oldest to be continually open in Britain, and all the proceeds from ticket sales will go to its restoration fund.

• Visit www.phoenixcinema.co.uk