We bring you our guide to living well in the world’s capitals, from exhibitions to cinema, food, drink, fashion, music and beyond. Just call it culture and take it, it’s yours.

LONDON, FRIDAY 18th APRIL – MONDAY 21st APRIL 2014

Tom Hardy. A car. A phone. That’s it.
This week’s engrossing film suggestion comes in the form of Locke, a movie which contains little action but cleverly remains as riveting as any classic thriller. The central story revolves solely around one character, played by Tom Hardy. His quietly shattering character study, like his character Locke, achieves exactly what it sets out to, no messing about.

Following Locke he embarks upon an arduous drive to London, the film takes place entirely within the confines of a car. Not an easy watch, even if you have to look claustrophobia up in the dictionary but dive in – nail biting situational tension is absolutely guaranteed.

Locke, in cinemas now, check here for listings

Paper, scissors, no rock necessary
The most comprehensive exhibition devoted to Henri Matisse’s career defining paper cut-outs is open to the public this month over at Tate Modern. Check out one of the largest collections of Matisse’s artworks ever assembled, many of which he created using only scissors, paper and pins, to free himself from the misery of old age and his waining health in later life.

Not only is this a charming and enthusiastic exhibition but Matisse’s determination in making these works is a testament to just how powerful the combination of creativity and strength of spirit can be. Magic.

Henri Matisse: The Cut-Outs, Tate Modern, Bankside, London SE1 9TG
Until 7th September

Know your pioneers
If you haven’t heard through the French-accented chat emanating from the Barbican the past few weeks then we’re here to get you up to speed. You need to check out the incredible archive exhibition from the maestro of tongue-in-chic fashion, Jean Paul Gaultier.

A man who needs no introduction nor any rendition recited of his illustrious career, decades of the Parisian’s groundbreaking creations are laid out for all to see for the next four months. Expect sequinned tartans, embroidered crotches, exotic feathers and skins pieced together with decadent humour. Power mesh and cone bustiers? Kilts galore and more Breton stripes than you can shake a stick at? You know the score.

After a few hours at this engrossing exhibition there’ll be only one thing on your mind. He did it first, all with rebel flourish.

The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier, From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk
The Barbican Centre, Silk St, London EC2Y 8DS
Until 25th August 

Grinning like a Cheshire cat
If you fancy something a tad more socially gripping but just as visually stunning then check out Chris Marker’s iconic narrative works in his first UK retrospective at The Whitechapel Gallery this bank holiday weekend. A photographer and director of 60 films, Marker was an inveterate traveller – his camera was his eye. See his visions of planetary cultures; memories of a war ravaged France, the brutalities of colonialism and the failures of revolution. Perfect fuel/excuse for a pint and a chin wag afterwards.

Chris Marker: A Grin Without a Cat, 
Whitechapel Gallery, 77-82 Whitechapel High St, E1 7QX
Until 22nd June

Thou shalt have a fishy on a little dishy
Head to new Dalston foodie retreat Rotorino to fit a (timely) Friday fish supper. Born of a passion for Southern Italian dining this place is set to be East London’s new food haven. You won’t find Sea Bream this good anywhere outside of Puglia and their no-reservations bar is open for drop-ins for a glass of wine and a bite to eat all day. Ideal.

The newly-opened Rotarino, Dalston

Rotorino, 434 Kingsland Road London E8 4AA

Ain’t life grand?
A grand brasserie set in midtown Holborn could quite possibly be the ultimate oasis for Easter weekend’s indulgences. Consider Holborn Dining Room’s impressive bar and bakery to fill the gap on everything you could want to take self-indulgent delight in. Chocolate, cocktails and impeccable service? Do your long weekend right.

Holborn Dining Room, 252 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7EN