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MOVIE PICK: THE BFG
A new Steven Spielberg is always going to be major, and while this child-oriented offering can’t quite match the heights of ET, nobody had a go at Michaelangelo when his later frescoes didn’t quite match the Sistine Chapel. Everybody knows the book, so let’s not bother with synopsis – all you need to know is that a motion-captured Mark Rylance is perfect as the eponymous giant, and Spielberg palpably delights in creating his world. A slightly meandering middle might try the patience of young 'uns, and the interactions between the live action Sophie, and the various computer-born giants are at times awkward in their realisation, but a master on an off day is still a master. Times
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THIS WEEKEND: JQ FEST
The 1920s is to Gatsby's America, what 2016 is to the JQ — its sparkling, coming of age. So in case you need an excuse to check out its new tacqueria (opening tonight), or the plethora of other spots vying for you affections, the JQ Festival is your food, entertainment and craft crammed opportunity. They've even got a helter skelter for Pete's sake. From July 22 to 24, catch comic Barbara Nice, CircusMash, or get behind the doors of the workshops of more than 50 artists, craftspersons and creatives, with the help of this ever so nifty open studios map. Taking place from the Golden Square (pictured) to Fleet Street, there's folk music and a bar to entice you as far as Newman's Coffin Works. Full programme
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Venue: The Button Factory, 25 Frederick Street, B1 3HH; website
Choice: Cumin lamb leg (£13.50) Chooser: Waitress
The consummate weekender, The Button Factory has taken over the Jewellery Quarter's terrace of potential, which was Vertu. With an open kitchen as the focal point of the dining room, and a cheffing team that moved across the country for launch, the Middle Eastern-y menu is refreshingly interesting without veering too close to pretension. The chargrilled squid was spiced and finished adeptly, whilst the n'duja croquettes had just the right amount of kick to warrant some dispute as to who should get last bite rights. In terms of mains, the menu is small but perfectly formed, and that we wanted to try every dish says a lot about the thought that went into it. Stepping up for coronation though, the generous slices of what must have been one helluva lamb's leg, served with a cumin-based herb combo of Ottoman pleasing proportions, a yohgurty dip and a light, doughy flatbread. A simple sounding plate of food, but an exemplary one. Menu
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CARDAMOM CHAI WITH YOUR FINGER SANDWICH?
If cucumber triangles are no longer doing it for you, it's probably time to take a look at Praza's take on afternoon tea, in leafy ol' Edgbaston Village. Including peppercorn and bay leaf infused black masala chai by way of the hot stuff, expect bhajis, samosas and a beetroot, chickpea and goat’s cheese cup. Throw in sweet treats like cumin and orange scones, plus motichoor ladoo — one of India's top sweet treats. From £15.95 on the last Sunday of each month. More
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SEEING JOHN MALKOVICH
In a fight between Hollywood colossus, John Malkovich, and the Symphony Hall's humdinger of an organ, who would you back? It's probably not a question you've put a lot of thought into but with Call Me God! premiering in Brum on March 21, the scenario has become a dramatic reality. Catch a rare personal appearance from Malkovich — and his crazed battle between words, music, genius and delusion — while organist, Martin Haselböck, responds with Bach and Messiaen. Tickets start at £12.50 rising to £58.
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