Cultural Life: Gary Kemp, Actor and musician

Films

I really enjoyed Joe Wright's Anna Karenina. Sumptuously directed, although extremely brave, it dared to present film, and the story, in a more theatrical manner. This upset a lot of the realists out there, I'm sure, but I found it highlighted the political side of the tale. Tom Stoppard's script was also excellent.

Music

I love Dexys' latest album, One Day I'm Going to Soar, and adored the show at the Barbican. Kevin Rowland is one of the most committed performers I've ever seen and the album is stunning. I also love old English folk, have done since I was a teenager, so check out Hannah James and Sam Sweeney's State and Ancientry.

Books

Currently reading Ian McEwan's new novel, Sweet Tooth. I've read everything of his.

Theatre

We roared with laughter at The Last of the Haussmans at the National. Fantastic performances from Julie Walters and Helen McCrory. How the baby-boomers seriously screwed up their kids.

Television

Catching up on Mark Cousins's immaculately detailed The Story of Film. I loved The Bridge but I was disappointed by The Killing in comparison.

Gary Kemp will be in conversation with Richard Strange at The House of St Barnabas, London W1, on 23 October (hosb.org.uk)