World premiere of tragicomedy about ‘families, betrayal, choices and love’. Showing at the Arcola until 26 May 2012

Joss Whedon’s funny superhero film is full of comic-book capers. Showing at the Hackney Picturehouse till the end of May

An exhibition at Hoxton Art Gallery finds unexpected beauty and fascination in the often-ignored debris of city life

Brimstone and Treacle is a metaphor of the moment and a play for today. Showing at the Arcola until 2 June

The quartet of former youth workers are set for mainstream success with their feelgood blends

Various Dalston venues, Friday 4 and Saturday 5 May 2012

Artist Nazir Tanbouli creates murals of mythical creatures on the Kingsland Estate in Haggerston

Joss Whedon’s high-concept scary movie is a satirical curiosity

Hackney Empire, until 5 May 2012

Alvarado Gallery, 33 Chatsworth Road. Until 2 May 2012