A selection from the best of the BBC's news reportage around the world.

A profile of one of Britain's leading war photographers, Paul Lowe.

Director Graham Vick's new production for the Birmingham Opera Company of Beethoven's tale of unrequited love, unfair imprisonment and ultimate redemption. The setting is a circus big top in the grounds of Aston Hall, Birmingham. The cast includes Jane Leslie Mackenzie, Ronald Samm and Jonathan Best. William Lacey conducts the Birmingham Opera Company Orchestra.

French psychological thriller, directed by Nicole Garcia, in which the alcoholic wife of a diamond smuggler decides to take on her husband's ailing business after he commits suicide. Starring Catherine Deneuve, Jean-Pierre Bacri, Emmanuelle Seigner and Jacques Dutronc. In French with English subtitles.

Tonight, Stuart Maconie questions the horror credentials of the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Second in a three-part series. This edition features the establishment of the White Cube Gallery and the arrival of Tracey Emin onto the scene.

Kate Mosse hosts a discussion of travel writing with Colin Thubron, Daniel Morden, and Sara Wheeler. From the Assembly Halls in Bath.

Some of the major news stories.