Belgian director Michaël R. Roskam has turned a 1943 media heist into a period comedy‑thriller, calling it “Ocean’s Eleven, but with a newspaper.” The film, titled Le Faux Soir, dramatizes how Belgian journalists and printers hijacked the Nazi‑controlled newspaper Le Soir and replaced it with a satirical counterfeit that mocked the occupiers, a first‑ever media hack. Roskam, known for Bullhead and The Drop, worked with co‑writer Bernard Falaise to adapt the story, insisting on realistic, humor‑driven characters rather than overt satire. He cast prominent French‑speaking actors such as François Damiens, Arieh Worthalter, Bouli Lanners, and Mélanie Thierry to embody the witty resistance fighters. The director emphasized the importance of period authenticity, researching 1940s printing techniques and consulting surviving witnesses. Le Faux Soir premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and is being sold worldwide by Goodfellas. The film offers a fresh take on resistance, blending historical intrigue with comedic timing, and showcases how humor can serve as a form of defiance against tyranny.
The discovery of a luxurious Roman bath complex at Vrelo‑Šarkamen in eastern Serbia has shed new light on Emperor Maximinus Daza’s reign. The site, excavated for decades, revealed a circular balneum with a domed ceiling, high windows, and a sauna, a design unlike the typical lateral layouts of Roman baths. Archaeologists from the Institute of Archaeology identified the complex as belonging to Daza, who briefly ruled as a junior emperor before his death in a civil war.
The bath’s subterranean levels housed a furnace and a large copper boiler that would have supplied hot water to the pools, although the boiler itself was missing. The discovery also uncovered a monumental stone tower in the southwest corner, previously known only from surface evidence. Researchers noted that the complex’s circular layout and domed roof were unprecedented in the Roman Empire, indicating a unique architectural approach for a ruler of Daza’s stature.
The find provides fresh insight into the imperial infrastructure of the late third‑century Roman Empire and highlights Serbia’s rich Roman heritage. Further excavation is expected to reveal more details about the complex and its role in the broader network of Roman baths across the empire. The discovery underscores the ongoing importance of archaeological work in uncovering the everyday life of ancient emperors.
Former AC Milan manager Fabio Capello praised Como 1907 striker Assane Diao as technically superior to Rafael Leao, saying Diao’s performances were "better on a technical level". Capello made the comparison after watching Como’s 4‑1 win over RB Leipzig in the first round of the Champions League, a result that made the club the only Serie A side to secure a victory in that stage. While admiring Diao, the ex‑coach admitted he did not understand the midfield "circle" ritual that Como manager Cesc Fabregas performs after every match, describing it as a "show" rather than a tactical gesture. Capello described Como as "a joy to watch", noting their attacking style, collective effort and constant pressing, and said they are the team he enjoys watching most. The comments came as Como prepare to face Parma in their next Serie A fixture, following a Champions League win that left Inter, Real Madrid and Roma with two defeats and one draw. Capello’s remarks highlight the growing competitiveness of Como in Europe and the differing philosophies of their manager compared to traditional Italian coaching styles.
The 13th European Tour event of the 2026 PDC season, the Flanders Darts Trophy, will take place at Antwerp Expo from 11 to 13 September. The tournament features six of the world’s top ten players, including Michael van Gerwen, Gerwyn Price, James Wade, Gian van Veen, and Beau Greaves. Greaves, who became the first woman to win a Euro Tour match in Prague, will face Damon Heta in the first‑round evening session on Friday, with the winner meeting van Gerwen on Saturday. The event also offers a route to qualify for the World Grand Prix, which runs from 28 September to 4 October. The schedule lists round‑one afternoon and evening sessions on Friday, round‑two sessions on Saturday, and round‑three, quarter‑finals, semi‑finals, and final on Sunday. Notable matchups include Rob Cross versus Cristo Reyes and Gerwyn Price versus Joe Cullen in the evening sessions. Sky Sports will broadcast the tournament live, with additional coverage of the World Grand Prix, Grand Slam of Darts, and World Darts Championship later in the year.
A study of 485 Swedish high school students has challenged the common assumption that iron deficiency is the primary cause of fatigue in teenage girls. Researchers from Lund University found that neither anaemia nor low ferritin levels were directly associated with higher fatigue or lower quality of life among the participants.
Instead, the data revealed that heavy menstrual periods were strongly linked to increased exhaustion and diminished wellbeing, even when accounting for iron levels. The study suggests that factors such as menstrual pain, sleep disruption, or social withdrawal may be the actual drivers of fatigue rather than a lack of iron.
Other lifestyle factors also played a significant role, as skipping meals and daily nicotine use were both associated with greater fatigue. Researchers noted that while iron deficiency remains a global health concern, focusing solely on it may cause clinicians to overlook these other modifiable lifestyle elements. Future research will focus on developing better screening tools to identify true iron deficiency and more effective treatment strategies for this demographic.
Formula 1 is preparing to debut at the brand-new Madring street circuit as Madrid takes over hosting duties for the Spanish Grand Prix from Barcelona. The 3.365-mile layout features up to 24 corners, relentless directional changes, and minimal straightaways. Competitors anticipate a grueling trial, with junior drivers comparing the fast, enclosed layout to an intensified version of Saudi Arabia's Jeddah Corniche Circuit.
Key challenges along the lap include a narrow Turn 5 chicane where two cars cannot fit side by side and Turn 12, an aggressive 180-degree banked corner dubbed La Monumental. The banked turn boasts a 24 percent gradient, forcing drivers to endure extreme lateral forces while remaining flat on the accelerator. Carlos Sainz, who helped design safety elements for the turn, warned that tight barriers make the venue one of the toughest additions to modern motorsport.
Earlier Formula 3 testing produced 19 red flags across two days, sparking expectations among drivers that the race weekend could see frequent stoppages and safety cars. Ferrari teammates Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton previously evaluated the circuit during filming runs, noting low initial grip and scarce overtaking opportunities. Madrid is contracted to stage the annual grand prix through at least 2035.
Alex Gibney’s 225‑minute documentary "Musk" premiered at the Venice Film Festival, portraying Elon Musk as a narcissistic, self‑justifying figure. The film uses a CGI avatar to reenact Musk’s own words, highlighting his claims about space exploration and simulation theory. It accuses Tesla of overstating self‑driving safety, citing fatal accidents such as the 2019 Florida incident that killed 22‑year‑old Naibel Benevides Leon. The documentary also alleges that Tesla hid data from the crash and misrepresented battery range, while promising a future network of roadside charging ports. Musk’s personal relationships are examined, from his first marriage to Justine Musk and the death of their son Nevada to his liaisons with Grimes and influencer Ashley St. Clair. St. Clair claims Musk sought to influence the 2024 U.S. election through his Starlink network, a claim the film leaves unverified. The film’s critical tone and investigative depth sparked debate about the billionaire’s public persona and corporate practices.
At the Venice Film Festival, Hirokazu Koreeda presents a live‑action adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s one‑shot manga, ‘Look Back.’ The 1 hour 40 minute film follows two rural teenagers, Fujino and Kyomoto, as they grow from shy classmates into collaborative manga artists. Koreeda’s direction and cinematographer Senzo Ueno translate the manga’s delicate pen‑and‑brush aesthetic into soft colors, light, and texture, sometimes morphing into stylized anime when the story demands it. The result feels fragile yet beautifully resonant, echoing the original’s poetic seasonal shifts. The narrative centers on Fujino’s early confidence, her rivalry with Kyomoto, and the eventual friendship that blossoms when the shy artist finally meets her idol. Together they publish under the joint pseudonym Kyo Fujino, gaining a modest following before parting ways as Kyomoto heads to art school. While the film stretches the manga’s concise story, it deepens the emotional texture, offering a quiet meditation on ambition, competition, and the healing power of shared creativity. Critics note that the film’s lingering poignancy and visual charm make it a delicate charmer for fans of Koreeda’s humanist touch.
Real Madrid manager José Mourinho expressed surprise that Inter Milan have yet to win the Champions League, saying the club’s recent title drought is a mystery. During a pre‑match press conference before the Madrid‑Inter tie, Mourinho added that the fixture list might have been set by an Italian, hinting at a scheduling disadvantage. He praised Inter’s consistency over the last six years, noting the team’s style has remained unchanged from Conte to Inzaghi to Chivu. The Italian side entered the game after a 3‑2 victory over Napoli, with Lautaro Martínez scoring twice. Mourinho also highlighted the importance of strong play, citing Kylian Mbappé and Lautaro Martínez as key players for their respective clubs. He warned that three of Real Madrid’s players - Bernardo Silva, Arda Güler and Eduardo Camavinga - will be suspended for the match. Mourinho said he was determined to win the Champions League game, contrasting it with the loss to Real Betis earlier in the season. He declined to comment on whether Trent Alexander‑Arnold could fill a midfield role, focusing instead on the team’s preparation for the upcoming fixture.
Jadon Sancho, the former Manchester United and England winger, is reportedly in line to return to his former club Borussia Dortmund, according to a rumor from The Sun. The report, which appeared in Monday’s newspapers, suggests that the 24‑year‑old is being considered for a move back to the German side after leaving Dortmund in 2021 to join Manchester United. While the rumor has not been confirmed by either club, it has sparked interest among fans and analysts who track the player’s career trajectory. The speculation is part of a broader wave of transfer chatter circulating across European football, with several clubs reportedly eyeing experienced players for the upcoming season. No official statement has been issued by Borussia Dortmund or Sancho’s representatives, leaving the story in the realm of unverified reports. The rumor’s source, The Sun, is known for its frequent coverage of high‑profile transfer stories. The potential move would see Sancho return to the Bundesliga, where he previously enjoyed a successful spell before his move to England.
Xavier Ginesta, the Spanish entrepreneur behind a leading global payments firm, sold the company for more than $100 million. He said he was not looking to retire or launch a new venture, but to use the proceeds for a different purpose. The idea came after watching 2,000 festival dancers and a senior employee mop the floors at the Festival of Consciousness, an event that made him question the meaning of success. Ginesta has coined the term “transformational philanthropy,” arguing that systemic change begins with a shift in belief rather than policy or programs. He plans to channel the money into initiatives that reshape human consciousness and inner belief systems.
In a tightly contested Serie A fixture, Torino secured their first points of the season by defeating a struggling Fiorentina 2‑1 at Stadio Artemio Franchi in Florence. The match opened with a 48‑minute goal from Mateo Pellegrino, a long‑range strike that slipped past goalkeeper Perri. Torino responded in the second half, with Rolando Mandragora netting a dramatic long‑range winner for his former club. Che Adams added a second goal for Torino, completing a brace that sealed the victory. Fiorentina’s debutant Wilfried Gnonto was introduced in the 46th minute, but the side could not convert any of their chances and fell behind. Inter’s pre‑match warm‑ups against Napoli were noted, with a strong lineup featuring Lautaro Martinez and Lautaro Martinez, but the match itself was still pending at the time of reporting. The result leaves Torino with a morale‑boosting first point, while Fiorentina remains in crisis as they seek to halt a winless streak. The match highlights the competitive nature of the Serie A opening fixtures and the impact of key player performances.
Ferrari displayed significant pace during the first practice session of the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton securing the top two positions. Leclerc set a leading time of 1:23.008s, finishing just 0.173s ahead of his teammate. This performance follows the introduction of a new engine upgrade and circuit-specific chassis components designed to improve performance on high-speed tracks.
Mercedes showed competitive form as well, with George Russell finishing third and championship leader Kimi Antonelli in fifth. Despite his high ranking, Antonelli is set to start from the back of the grid on Sunday due to exceeding his engine component allowance. Red Bull's Liam Lawson also impressed, taking fourth place while driving in place of the injured Isack Hadjar.
The session featured several rookie drivers, including Ayumu Iwasa and Paul Aron, as teams tested new configurations ahead of qualifying. Ferrari's ability to set fast times on medium tyres suggests their recent technical upgrades have successfully addressed previous power unit deficiencies.
George Clooney delivered a masterclass at the Venice Film Festival’s Match Point Arena, reflecting on a career that spans nearly five decades. He recalled the risk he took to make the 2005 political drama Good Night, and Good Luck, mortgaging his house to fund the film before showing it to a Venice audience. Clooney linked the film’s themes of press freedom to contemporary media challenges, noting that networks, law firms and universities are caving to populist pressures. He paid tribute to his father, journalist Nick Clooney, and highlighted the Clooney Foundation’s success in freeing 100 journalists from jail. Clooney praised his wife, human‑rights lawyer Amal, for securing convictions against war‑crime perpetrators, including the case of Yazidi survivor Nadia Murad. He also discussed the balance of power between actors and directors, citing his experience on Terrence Malick’s A Thin Red Line. During the Q&A, a 25‑year‑old Belgian‑Algerian film‑school graduate asked for a job, and Clooney offered her a role on an upcoming Italian production. The session underscored Clooney’s belief that activism, storytelling and opportunity can shape a better world.
A privately owned ferry departed from Carania port in northern Cyprus around midday, bound for the Turkish port of Tashaku. The vessel capsized roughly four miles offshore, taking on water and causing a chaotic emergency. Of the 267 passengers and crew aboard, eight have been confirmed dead and 17 remain missing, prompting rescue helicopters to airlift survivors one at a time. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan addressed the tragedy at a military ceremony, offering condolences and urging continued search efforts. The ferry’s captain and seven crew members were arrested, and officials have declared the incident the worst maritime disaster Cyprus has ever experienced.
Icelanders rejected the government's proposal to resume negotiations for EU membership, with 52.8% voting "No" and 47.2% "Yes", according to RUV. The referendum, held on Aug 27, 2026, centered on sovereignty and control over the nation's fishing industry, which remains a key export sector. Opponents argued that EU accession could erode Iceland's autonomy over its fisheries and dilute national identity. Supporters of the "Yes" side cited security benefits, noting Iceland's strategic position in the GIUK Gap and its NATO membership. The vote came amid heightened Arctic tensions, including U.S. President Donald Trump's rhetoric about Greenland and the broader North Atlantic. Iceland has been a member of the European Economic Area and Schengen Area, giving it access to the EU single market without full membership. The referendum followed the country's 2009 application for EU membership, which was suspended in 2013 and formally ended in 2015. With the "No" majority, Iceland will maintain its current status and continue to negotiate its relationship with the EU on a more limited basis.
Westmalle Abbey’s flagship Trappist beer, Westmalle Dubbel, is celebrating its centenary, marking 100 years since the monks first brewed the original table beer in 1836. The anniversary celebration will feature a redesigned 33‑centilitre bottle label and a matching crown cap, giving the classic brown ale a fresh look for the first time in a century. In addition, the brewery will release a commemorative glass with a silver rim that echoes the style of earlier Westmalle vessels, offering collectors a tangible piece of history. Between late September and late October, pubs across Belgium will pair a Westmalle Dubbel order with a bite of limited‑edition Westmalle cheese, a special product created solely for the milestone. The monks, who run the abbey with 17 residents and 75 staff, maintain that their brewing remains a means of sustaining the community and supporting charitable causes, rather than seeking profit. While the recipe has evolved over the decades, the core philosophy and flavour profile have stayed consistent, according to head of marketing Manu Pauwels, who highlighted the beer’s role in defining the Trappist style. The centenary not only celebrates a historic brew but also underscores Westmalle’s enduring commitment to quality and community, reinforcing the brand’s status as a benchmark for Trappist ales worldwide.
Napoli’s summer transfer window has taken a hit as the club faces two setbacks. The Italian side confirmed that Noa Lang, who joined on a €25 million move from PSV last summer, is no longer on the Galatasaray table, leaving Napoli to seek a replacement elsewhere. Lang’s loan spell at the Turkish club was unproductive, and with the club having invested €43‑45 million in Rafael Leao, a return is unlikely. Meanwhile, Chelsea agreed to sell midfielder Marc Guiu to RB Leipzig, a deal that Napoli had only considered on loan, but the Premier League side resisted. Napoli’s transfer restrictions mean the club must offload a player before signing new ones, putting pressure on the squad’s depth. The double blow leaves Napoli scrambling to balance its books and secure a suitable replacement for Lang while dealing with the loss of Guiu.
UEFA is preparing criminal proceedings against FIFA president Gianni Infantino over a failed plan to sell parts of the World Cup. Vice‑president Laura McAllister told Sky News that UEFA’s recent meetings in Monaco have brought the organisation closer to filing the case in Switzerland. The talks followed UEFA’s decision to lift a boycott of the FIFA Women’s Under‑20 World Cup, a move that was seen as a step toward broader governance reform. McAllister said UEFA wants to ensure that FIFA’s reserves are used for football development rather than being controlled by a single individual. She cited the failed “FFE” initiative and past controversies, such as the Qatar bid and the Balagan case, as evidence that FIFA’s leadership needs change. Infantino has travelled to the Caribbean, Vietnam and other regions this week, but UEFA officials say the support for him is waning. The potential Swiss court case could force Infantino to hand over documents related to the abandoned World‑Cup sale scheme. UEFA’s goal is a “radical overhaul” of FIFA’s governance structure ahead of the March election. The organisation stresses that the reforms would benefit clubs, national associations and fans worldwide. If successful, the proceedings could mark a turning point in global football governance.
Xbox unveils 25th anniversary collection at Gamescom in Cologne, Germany, the company showcased a translucent Series X console and a special controller S in a green resin matching the original design. Xbox Chief Technology Officer Scott Van Vliet announced preorders will begin tomorrow, with early access for loyal fans who received emails this morning. Each preorder includes the console, the controller, and a copy of Halo: Campaign Evolved, providing a complete experience. Design teams highlighted the use of translucent green resin to mirror the original Xbox limited edition, while adding Easter eggs and an exploded view display showing Master Chief's helmet embedded in the fan shroud. The new controller features the classic ABXY colors and black and white bumpers, echoing earlier models. Xbox plans to continue iterating on hardware and software to serve players globally, with the anniversary collection serving as a celebration of 25 years of gaming innovation. The event also featured live demos of upcoming titles and a showcase of the company's roadmap for next‑gen hardware. Xbox's commitment to community engagement was highlighted by interactive booths where attendees could test prototypes and provide feedback.
In Athens, Greek citizens are staging protests that threaten the growing Israel‑first policy alignment. The author, who recently visited Psiri, reports that Israeli cruise ship passengers are being barred from disembarking amid demonstrations. The protests have escalated to the point where the author was confronted by a passerby who demanded silence about Israel. The author notes that the protests reflect a broader public backlash against perceived Israeli aggression in Gaza, the West Bank, Syria, Lebanon, and Iran. While the Greek government has not yet formally altered its stance, the public pressure could force a reassessment of the alliance. The situation illustrates how domestic sentiment can influence foreign policy, potentially reshaping the strategic partnership between Greece and Israel.
China has imposed export controls on tungsten, driving up prices and prompting European companies to seek alternatives. Plan A, an Austria‑based recycling firm, has secured long‑term contracts with a South Korean mine and collects scrap across Europe to produce tungsten tools. The company’s facilities in Germany and Austria recycle the metal and manufacture high‑precision tools for aerospace and defense, protecting its proprietary processes. With EU borders open, Plan A can coordinate supply chains across member states, but the firm notes that some tungsten scrap still leaves Europe for China. The EU lists tungsten as a critical raw material, and the escalating competition for the metal underscores the need for a resilient, independent supply chain. If Europe fails to secure its own sources, it risks renewed dependence on China, potentially affecting defense and high‑tech industries. The company’s strategy highlights the broader challenge of securing critical materials amid geopolitical tensions.
A group of 32 mountaineers became stranded on Mont Blanc’s western ridge after rockfalls forced the closure of two key routes on August 11. The climbers ignored the authorities’ warnings and continued toward the summit, prompting the mayor of San Zerve to demand that they pay $110 each for a private helicopter lift. The mayor rejected the use of a state‑funded rescue helicopter, arguing that the climbers had deliberately ignored safety orders and that government‑funded rescues indirectly benefit insurance companies. The decision sparked a heated debate, as rescue operations on Mont Blanc have traditionally been free of charge. The incident highlights the tension between mountaineering safety protocols and the financial responsibilities of climbers who choose to ascend despite official warnings.
Vilnius, Lithuania, celebrated its annual corgi race on August 17, drawing 150 dogs from nine countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and several Baltic states. The competition featured a speed race, a costume contest, a nose‑testing event, and a vocal showdown. A California‑bred corgi claimed the overall title, while a Latvian dog named Vatra won second place in the costume category, transforming into a mushroom‑themed costume. The event also highlighted the quieter side of the breed, with Duke from the UK failing to bark in the vocal contest. Organizers noted that the festival not only showcases canine agility but also serves as a cultural gathering, attracting visitors from across Europe and beyond. The race was held at the historic Pantheic Stadium, which is undergoing a century‑old marble cleaning to prepare for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic flame handover. The cleaning project aims to preserve the marble’s original glow while removing organic deposits. The corgi festival underscores the growing popularity of pet competitions in Europe.
Tom Clarkson, former driver Jolien Palmer and IndyCar champion James Hinchcliffe open the F1 Nation podcast with a preview of the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, which also hosts the season’s fifth sprint race. They outline the current championship standings, noting Kimi Antonelli’s 219‑point lead, 50 points ahead of Lewis Hamilton and nine ahead of George Russell. The hosts praise Antonelli’s consistent pace and racecraft, describing his performance as “flawless” in recent sessions and highlighting his ability to stay competitive week after week. They discuss potential strategic moves by Mercedes, including the possibility of power‑unit penalties at Monza to protect Antonelli’s advantage, and comment on the team’s willingness to adjust tactics mid‑season. Hinchcliffe and Palmer emphasize that Antonelli should maintain his current approach, avoiding unnecessary risk or caution that could erode his lead. The podcast also touches on the sprint format, noting its impact on the overall race strategy and the importance of qualifying position. Overall, the preview frames the Dutch GP as a pivotal event where Antonelli’s buffer will be tested against a field eager to close the gap.
A wildfire in northwest Germany has forced the evacuation of over 2,000 people, with authorities struggling to contain the blaze due to unexploded World War II munitions in the area. The fire is spreading rapidly, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions. Firefighters are using helicopters and fire trucks to battle the blaze, but the risk of explosions from the unexploded ordnance is making the operation challenging.
The UK has recorded its hottest day of the year with temperatures reaching 38.1 degrees Celsius in London. The heat wave has raised concerns about people's preparedness and the impact on hospitals and care homes. The Royal College of Nursing has described working conditions as 'intolerable' due to the heat. The UK is not alone in experiencing extreme heat, with much of Europe on red alert. The cause of the heat wave is attributed to climate change, which makes heat waves more likely. Practical tips are being shared to stay cool and safe during the heat wave.
Amy Hunt has won the 200m gold medal at the European Athletics Championships, adding to her 100m gold medal. Hunt's performance was outstanding, and she credited her coach with helping her stay focused. The championships have been a magical week for Hunt, and she is now looking to the relays to complete her goal of winning four gold medals.
A new report from the European Environmental Agency warns that droughts and water scarcity are becoming more frequent and intense across the continent. Rising temperatures are drying out soils and shrinking rivers, putting pressure on Europe's water resources. The EU has launched a European Water Resilience Strategy to improve water efficiency and address the issue.
A heat wave is expected to affect over half of Europe's population, with temperatures exceeding 30°C in Western and Southern Europe. The UK government has called an emergency meeting to address the issue. Scientists attribute the heat waves to human-caused climate change.
A European tech pioneer shares his thoughts on the AI revolution, its potential impact, and Europe's chances of competing in this new wave of innovation.
A mysterious drone exploded in Bulgaria, close to a major gas pipeline, without causing any casualties. The incident highlights concerns about airspace surveillance in the region. An investigation is underway to determine the type of drone and its origin. This comes after Romania shot down several drones in its airspace in recent days.
Burgazada, one of Istanbul's Princes' Islands, offers a peaceful escape from the city's fast pace. The island is home to a rich history, beautiful coastline, and a slower pace of life. Visitors can explore the island's hidden gems, including the former home of celebrated writer Sait Faik Abasıyanık, which has been preserved as a museum.
The European Union has started enforcing its new AI act, requiring AI-generated content to carry digital markers for detection. This includes chatbots disclosing their machine nature and deepfakes being clearly labeled. The law aims to prevent AI from being used to deceive people, giving them a right to know what's real. Companies that break the rules can be reported directly to regulators. This is one of the world's first laws addressing AI deception.