Documentary: ‘Devo’
When the new wave band Devo emerged from Akron, Ohio, in the mid-’70s, the public and the record industry didn’t know quite what to make of them. Were they art-school provocateurs? Pioneering electro rockers? An elaborate put-on? Perhaps all three? Chris Smith’s expertly made Netflix documentary gives the (mostly) brilliant music its due but, even better, goes deep into the concepts behind “devolution” in a pleasingly accessible way. And it’s not too late to whip it — whip it good — when they share Budweiser Stage with the B-52s on Sept. 24. —Doug Brod
Looking for a budget-friendly spot to have fun for just five bucks? Slip into CSI (720 Bathurst St.) on Saturday at 6 p.m. for a boardgame night. This long-running event is extremely chill and welcoming, whether you’re a newbie or an expert. (While it may be a queer event, allies are welcome.) You can meet new pals, try different games or play beloved old favourites. Food and drinks are available, too. —Briony Smith
Movies: Directed by Robert Altman
To celebrate the centenary of Robert Altman, one of film’s finest directors, the Criterion Channel is showcasing a big batch of his best, including “M*A*S*H,” “Nashville,” “3 Women” and “Gosford Park.” Already seen the classics? Throw on a few of our own personal faves, including the wintry Western “McCabe & Mrs. Miller”; the gleeful, cameo-packed Hollywood satire “The Player”; and the criminally underseen “Tanner ’88,” a masterful HBO mocumentary miniseries about a hapless politician on the campaign trail, which Altman, in his final years, called “the most creative work I’ve ever done.” —Briony Smith
Concert: The Pogues
The world lost celebrated Irish punk-rock poet Shane MacGowan in 2023, but his mates from the original 1982 version of his band the Pogues — Jem Finer and Spider Stacy, plus ‘80s add-on James Fearnley — are carrying on without him with shows that will commemorate the 40th anniversary of their 1985 album, “Rum Sodomy & the Lash.” The sets will also feature songs from the 1986 “Poguetry in Motion” EP (which includes the classic “A Rainy Night in Soho”) and 1984’s “Red Roses for Me” album. It all goes down Wednesday night at History (1663 Queen St. E.). —Debra Yeo
