pick of the week

Manchester European Film Forum

Manchester won't be hosting the Olympics, but don't get too glum: from tomorrow the city is home to a diverse menu of European films, many of them receiving their UK premieres. Three Steps to Heaven is an offbeat thriller from acclaimed short-film director Constantine Giannaris; the actor Klaus Maria Brandauer directs Mario and the Magician, based on Thomas Mann's novella about fascism; and The Detective and Death stars Pulp Fiction's Maria de Madeiros in a menacing futuristic thriller. Discussions, special guests (including Land and Freedom writer Jim Allen) and a two- day symposium: who needs the Decathlon?

6-29 Oct, Manchester Cornerhouse (0161-228 2463)