Counter Culture

Welcome to Culture Vulture, your guide to the week’s entertainment from an alternative standpoint. Highlights this week include an inevitable Xmas focus with programmes like Lucy Worsley’s Christmas Carol Odyssey but there are also two great programmes on Dickens and some great films like Tove, Bridge of Spies and Belfast. Reviews and selections are by Pat Harrington (unless otherwise stated) and music is by Tim Bragg.

Saturday 6th of December 2023

Tove (2023 film) 2.20am BBC2

Tove is a 2020 Finnish biographical film about Swedish-speaking Finnish author and illustrator Tove Jansson, creator of the Moomins. The film was directed by Zaida Bergroth from a script by Eeva Putro, and stars Alma Pöysti in the title role. The movie follows the early life of Tove Jansson from the end of World War II to the mid-1950s, showing her romantic relationships with the politician Atos Wirtanen and the theatre director Vivica Bandler, as well as the creation and publication of the Moomins.

According to a review by The Guardian, the film is an “impassioned portrayal” of Tove Jansson, the creator of the Moomins, and Alma Pöysti’s performance as Tove is “quietly blazing and passionate”. The same review also praises the film for its focus on Jansson’s interior world, which gives the film moments that really come to life. Another review by Variety describes the film as “sensuously textured” and praises Alma Pöysti’s “mesmerizing lead performance”. Tove won seven Jussi Awards, including Best Film and Best Actress for Pöysti.

Sunday 17th of December 2023

Killing Sherlock: Lucy Worsley On The Case Of Conan Doyle 9pm BBC2

Lucy Worsley’s “Killing Sherlock: Lucy Worsley on the Case of Conan Doyle” unfolds as a captivating three-part documentary series, delving into the intricate relationship between Arthur Conan Doyle and his iconic creation, Sherlock Holmes. As a fervent fan of Sherlock Holmes, I have always been captivated by the detective’s adventures, and this series has enriched my understanding, particularly regarding the later narratives that took a darker turn.

In this second installment of a trilogy, Worsley, a historian with an enduring passion for Sherlock Holmes, explores the paradoxical connection between Holmes and Doyle—a distinctive parallel biography of detective and author. The series navigates the tumultuous world events surrounding them, unraveling Sherlock’s genesis in Conan Doyle’s early life as a medical student, dissecting the early tales, and exposing the shadowy underbelly of late Victorian Britain, encompassing aspects such as drug use and true crime.

Worsley investigates Doyle’s evolving disillusionment with his detective creation, his inclination to distance himself from Sherlock, and his foray into the role of a real-life detective in a pivotal 20th-century legal case. The documentary probes the darkness within Doyle’s later stories, reflecting the harsh realities of Conan Doyle’s life post the loss of his eldest son, his immersion in spiritualism, and his waning public appeal, as well as a notable dispute with a renowned magician.

Throughout the series, Worsley’s passion for the subject shines, offering insightful glimpses into the world of Sherlock Holmes and Arthur Conan Doyle. The narrative is enriched with meticulous research and a well-presented exploration of historical context and personal history. For enthusiasts of the Sherlock Holmes universe, this series is a compelling must-watch, serving as a fitting tribute to one of the most significant literary creations of all time.

And don’t forget, all three episodes are available on BBC iPlayer, providing a comprehensive journey into the enthralling dynamics between an author and his immortal creation.

Bridge of Spies 10pm BBC2

This film could so easily have been propaganda of heroic, democratic Americans fighting the evil, dictatorial Russians. It’s set in 1957, during the Cold War, and centres on attempts by an American lawyer recruited to defend an arrested Soviet spy in court, and subsequently to help the CIA arrange an exchange of the spy for the Soviet captured American U2 spy plane pilot, Francis Gary Powers. An exchange to take place on the Glienecke bridge spanning East and West Berlin (the “Bridge of Spies” of the title). Spielberg never falls into the trap of making propaganda, instead this film is nuanced, balanced and even positive.

Sure there is the underlying message that America in the 1960s was more humane and liberal than Communist countries of the same era. That’s just stating the truth though. Whilst America at that time had its own issues with support for dictatorships, civil rights, segregation and racism, there was no moral equivalency with the brutal Communist regimes.

Bridge of Spies does not hide the fact that Donovan (the lawyer, played by Tom Hanks) is really being asked to make a pretence of a fair trial not really aim for one.

Donovan is verbally/physically attacked by his fellow Americans for defending Rudolf Abel (the Russian spy, played by Mark Rylance). The federal judge assigned to the case, Mortimer Beyers, shows he has already reached his verdict before the trial even begins and bulldozes through objections from Donovan. Donovan’s boss is less than sympathetic. Even his wife is far from supportive. Maybe this isn’t surprising as Donovan’s family pay a heavy price for him to defend the rights of a suspected spy. Most Americans seem to think that Donovan is a traitor for defending Abel and want his client executed. Donovan has other ideas. He believes it to be his constitutional duty to defend a man who may be guilty of spying and attempting to undermine the American state and its constitution. Donovan works for due process and a fair trial. He opposes the death penalty for his client and manages to secure imprisonment instead. Donovan is played by Hanks as the American Conscience. It’s a solid performance and the interplay between Hanks and Rylance is superb. Abel refers to Donovan as “the standing man” who continually keeps getting up after being knocked down.

The film portrays Rudolf as a decent, humane person only doing to the US what the US were doing to Russia. The performance from Rylance is one of the things that makes this film so fascinating. He plays Rudolf as an enigma, mild mannered, polite, softly spoken with a musical quality to his voice, yet someone who believes in his cause and will not sell it out. Critics have rightly praised this performance. Robbie Collin writing in the The Telegraph highlights: “A scene in which Abel quietly outwits an entire FBI raiding party in just his vest and underpants contains acting so understated, it’s virtually subliminal”.

The underlying question Spielberg is putting is that if we compromise our basic values to beat an enemy, haven’t they already won? It’s a question that we need to keep asking today. Then our enemies were the Communists, today they are the Salafist extremists of IS. Bridge of Spies, though set in the past, feels very relevant today.

A Hole In Babylon 11.05pm BBC4

“A Hole in Babylon” is a 1979 drama documentary that explores the events of the 1975 Spaghetti House siege in Knightsbridge, London. The play mixes news footage of the actual events with dramatized scenes of the siege. The story follows three black men who attempt to rob the takings of a restaurant, but things go wrong immediately as the police were alerted. The robbers barricaded themselves with the restaurant staff, leading to a six-day siege.

The play was part of the “Play for Today” series, which aired on BBC1 from 1970 to 1984. The series was known for its groundbreaking and thought-provoking dramas, and “A Hole in Babylon” is no exception. The play is a powerful exploration of race, class, and police brutality in late 1970s Britain.

As someone who used to love watching “Play for Today,” I can understand why many would like to see it brought back. The series was a cultural touchstone for many people, and it tackled important issues that were often ignored by mainstream media. While the series is no longer on the air, its legacy lives on in the many dramas and documentaries that it inspired.

“A Hole in Babylon” is a gripping and thought-provoking play that is well worth watching. It is a powerful reminder of the struggles that black people faced in Britain in the 1970s, and it is a testament to the power of drama to explore complex social issues. I highly recommend it!

Monday 18th of December 2023

1917 (2019 film) 10.30pm BBC2

“1917,” directed by Sam Mendes, is a gripping and visually stunning war film that takes the audience on an immersive journey through the harrowing landscapes of World War I. The film is a technical marvel, known for its one-shot cinematography that creates a sense of real-time urgency and tension.

The story follows two British soldiers, Lance Corporals Blake (Dean-Charles Chapman) and Schofield (George MacKay), who are given a seemingly impossible mission: to deliver a crucial message across enemy lines to save a battalion from walking into a deadly trap. The film unfolds in a single continuous shot, amplifying the intensity of the narrative and offering a unique perspective on the horrors of war.

The cinematography, led by the talented Roger Deakins, is a standout element of “1917.” The long takes and seamless camera movements not only showcase the brutality of war but also contribute to the emotional impact of the characters’ journey. Thomas Newman’s evocative score complements the visuals, enhancing the overall immersive experience.

The performances of Chapman and MacKay are commendable, as they successfully convey the physical and emotional toll of their characters’ mission. The film also features notable supporting performances from seasoned actors like Colin Firth, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Mark Strong.

“1917” is not just a war film; it’s a testament to human resilience and the sacrifices made during times of conflict. While it may lack in-depth character development, the film compensates with its technical prowess, delivering a visceral and unforgettable cinematic experience. Mendes successfully brings the audience into the heart of the battlefield, making “1917” a memorable and impactful addition to the war film genre.

Tuesday 19 December 2023

The African Queen (1951 film) 1pm BBC2

“The African Queen,” directed by John Huston and released in 1951, stands as a classic adventure film that combines elements of romance, comedy, and drama against the backdrop of World War I in Central Africa. The film is particularly celebrated for the outstanding performances of its two leads, Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn.

Set in German East Africa, the story follows the unlikely duo of Charlie Allnut (Bogart), a rough-and-tumble Canadian boat captain, and Rose Sayer (Hepburn), a prim and proper English missionary. When their lives are disrupted by the outbreak of war, they find themselves aboard the rickety steamboat named The African Queen. Together, they embark on a perilous journey downriver to strike a blow against a German warship.

Bogart and Hepburn’s on-screen chemistry is nothing short of brilliant. The film showcases their ability to convey a range of emotions, from humor to vulnerability, as their characters navigate the challenges of both the treacherous river and their evolving relationship. Bogart, in particular, won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of the gruff yet endearing Charlie.

Huston’s direction and Jack Cardiff’s cinematography capture the lush and exotic landscapes of Africa, providing a stunning visual backdrop to the characters’ adventure. The film’s blend of humor and drama, combined with the unlikely romance between its protagonists, sets “The African Queen” apart as a timeless classic.

The film’s enduring charm lies in its ability to balance genres seamlessly. It’s an adventure film with heart, featuring memorable moments of camaraderie and resilience. “The African Queen” has rightfully earned its place in cinematic history, not only for its engaging story and stellar performances but also for its enduring appeal as an iconic piece of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

Dickens In Italy With David Harewood 8pm Sky Arts

“Dickens in Italy with David Harewood” is a two-part documentary series that explores the influence of Italy on Charles Dickens’ writing style, political beliefs, and personal life. The series follows David Harewood, an actor and writer, as he traces the novelist’s Grand Tour through Venice, Naples, Genoa, and Rome. The tour was chronicled in Dickens’ book “Pictures from Italy”.

Harewood reframes the idea that Dickens was a quintessentially English writer and uncovers Italy’s impact on his work. He explores the origins of Dickens’ formative years in Italy between 1844 and 1845, and how the country shaped his writing. Harewood also discusses the relevance of Dickens’ work in today’s world, and how it continues to resonate with audiences.

The series is a fascinating exploration of one of the world’s most famous writers and his relationship with Italy. Harewood’s passion for the subject is evident throughout, and his insights into Dickens’ life and work are both illuminating and entertaining. The series is a must-watch for anyone interested in literature, history, and the fascinating dynamics between an author and the places that inspired them.

Lucy Worsley’s Christmas Carol Odyssey 9pm BBC4

“Lucy Worsley’s Christmas Carol Odyssey” is a two-part documentary series that explores the history of Christmas carols. The series follows Lucy Worsley, an historian and presenter, as she delves into the origins of our favorite Christmas carols. From pagan rituals to religious conflicts, French dances, and the First World War, carols reflect our history. Worsley’s passion for the subject is evident throughout, and her insights into the world of Christmas carols are both illuminating and entertaining. The series is a must-watch for anyone interested in music, history, and the fascinating dynamics between Christmas and the places that inspired it.

Wednesday 20th of December 2023

Belfast (2021 film) 9pm BBC2

One of the most anticipated films of 2022 for this reviewer was Kenneth Branagh’s evocation of his hometown, Belfast. Branagh grew up in a predominately loyalist area of North Belfast just as “The Troubles” were beginning to take off. Your reviewer lived on a vast housing estate a few miles north of his area. How, I wondered, would his recollections tally with mine? What would audiences in Great Britain and abroad think?

Branagh’s alter ego is nine-year-old Buddy. He lives in a tightly knit area where everybody knows everyone else when out of the blue, a violent mob comes into the area, attacking the homes of Catholic neighbours, rioting, and erecting barricades. Soldiers appear on the streets, vetting who moves in and out of the area.

Some loyalists have criticised the film, claiming it doesn’t show context and portrays the Protestant Unionist Loyalist (PUL) community in the worst possible light. However, for a nine-year-old, there would be no context, the child would be swept up in the bewildering events unfolding around him. Jude Hill, the young actor who plays the part of Buddy, brings out this sense of innocent confusion, bewilderment and grief magnificently.

Branagh’s decision to film most of the 1969 action in black and white really pays off. I was eleven then and all my recollections of that time are in black and white. Colour television sets didn’t really take off until the late seventies. So much of this film resonated with me as I was only a couple of years older than Buddy at the time; Buddy’s interest in the Apollo space programme, his Thunderbirds International Rescue uniform, and the old route numbers on the buses. It all came flooding back. It could have been me and my family forced to leave the country if I’d lived four miles up the road.

Judy Dench was quite disappointing in her role as Buddy’s granny. In contrast, her screen husband, Ciaran Hinds, almost stole the show as Buddy’s wise but ailing granddad, Pop.

This film packs a real emotional punch; it left me shedding a few tears for those who had to leave, those left behind whose lives have been screwed up forever and for those who died. Please God, that we in Ulster don’t ever go through all that shit again.

Reviewed by David Kerr

Thursday 21st of December 2023

Meet Me In St Louis (1944 film) 1pm BBC2

“Meet Me in St. Louis,” directed by Vincente Minnelli and released in 1944, is a delightful and heartwarming musical that captures the spirit of a bygone era. Set against the backdrop of the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, the film revolves around the Smith family and their experiences over the course of a year.

At the center of the narrative is Esther Smith, played by the radiant Judy Garland, whose performance is a standout in the film. The story explores the Smiths’ everyday lives, their dreams, and the challenges they face as they navigate love, family, and the prospect of a move to New York.

Minnelli’s direction brings a nostalgic and visually enchanting quality to the film, with vibrant Technicolor cinematography that immerses the audience in the charm of early 20th-century America. The musical numbers, including the iconic “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” showcase Garland’s exceptional vocal talent and contribute to the film’s enduring appeal.

The ensemble cast, which includes Margaret O’Brien, Mary Astor, and Leon Ames, delivers performances that add depth and authenticity to the characters, making the Smith family relatable and endearing. The film successfully balances humor, romance, and sentimentality, creating a timeless classic that resonates with audiences across generations.

“Meet Me in St. Louis” is not just a musical; it’s a celebration of family and the enduring bonds that hold us together. The film’s nostalgic charm, memorable songs, and the genuine warmth of its characters make it a cinematic treasure that continues to captivate and enchant audiences, making it a perennial favorite in the world of classic Hollywood cinema.

Dickens: Phantoms And Fictions Sky Arts 8pm

“Dickens: Phantoms and Fictions” is a documentary that aired on Sky Arts. The show features David Harewood as he delves into Charles Dickens’ supernatural tales, exploring his eerie and atmospheric worlds through actor readings, including one from Adoja Andoh. The documentary is part of a series of Christmas specials on Sky Arts.

The show is a fascinating exploration of one of the world’s most famous writers and his relationship with the supernatural. Harewood’s passion for the subject is evident throughout, and his insights into Dickens’ life and work are both illuminating and entertaining. The show is a must-watch for anyone interested in literature, history, and the fascinating dynamics between an author and the places that inspired them.

and finally, Friday 22nd of December 2023

Traitors Sky History 10pm

This series features those who spied against their own countries. This one concerns Dmitri Polyakov who was a Soviet military intelligence officer who served as a double agent for the United States during the Cold War. He was one of the most damaging moles in the history of Soviet intelligence and provided the US with valuable intelligence on the Soviet military. Polyakov was arrested by the KGB in 1986, six years after his retirement from the GRU (Main Intelligence Directorate (Russian: Главное разведывательное управление, tr. Glavnoye razvedyvatel’noye upravleniye).

Alien (1979 film) 11.30pm BBC2

“Alien,” directed by Ridley Scott and released in 1979, is a groundbreaking science fiction horror film that revolutionized the genre and left an indelible mark on cinematic history. This atmospheric masterpiece combines elements of suspense, horror, and science fiction, creating an intense and chilling viewing experience.

Set in the distant future, the story follows the crew of the commercial spaceship Nostromo, awakened from their cryogenic sleep to investigate a distress signal on a desolate planet. As they explore an abandoned alien spacecraft, they unwittingly bring aboard a deadly extraterrestrial life form. The tension steadily builds as the alien creature, a nightmarish creation designed by H.R. Giger, begins to stalk and pick off the crew one by one.

“Alien” is characterized by its meticulous pacing, slow-building tension, and a sense of claustrophobia that permeates the confined spaces of the Nostromo. The film’s success is not solely reliant on its terrifying antagonist but also on the strong ensemble cast, including Sigourney Weaver as Ellen Ripley, whose portrayal of a resourceful and resilient survivor would become iconic in the genre.

Ridley Scott’s direction is masterful, creating an eerie and visually stunning atmosphere that complements the suspenseful narrative. The film’s art direction, set design, and Giger’s biomechanical creature design contribute to the creation of a truly immersive and otherworldly experience.

“Alien” is not just a horror film; it’s a meditation on the unknown, exploring themes of isolation, survival, and the existential fear of the unfamiliar. Jerry Goldsmith’s haunting musical score enhances the film’s eerie atmosphere and adds to its enduring impact.

Forty years after its release, “Alien” remains a benchmark in science fiction and horror cinema, influencing countless films in its wake. Its ability to blend terror with intelligent storytelling and exceptional craftsmanship cements its status as a classic, and its ability to terrify and captivate audiences has not diminished with time. “Alien” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to thrill and haunt viewers, solidifying its place in the pantheon of cinematic greatness.

Picture Credits

Tove
By Helsinki Film – https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11007444/mediaviewer/rm3497896449, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=64320841
1917
By Universal Studios, DreamWorks Pictures, and/or the graphic artist(s) – http://www.impawards.com/2019/nineteen_seventeen_ver3.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=63969796
Belfast
By Studio and or Graphic Artist – [1], Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=68638309
The African Queen
Copyright 1952 United Artists Corp.” – Scan via Heritage Auctions. Cropped from original image., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=86221638
Alien
By Imp Awards, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=398031
Meet Me In Saint Louis
By Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (Loew’s Inc.) – source, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=38280874