4,957 words, 26 minutes read time.
Welcome to Culture Vulture, your guide to the week’s entertainment from an alternative viewpoint. Writing and selection is by Pat Harrington and music is from Tim Bragg. As we enter October, the crisp air settles in. It’s the perfect time to unwind and enjoy some stellar TV and film releases available on UK platforms. This week, there’s a rich variety of entertainment, from action-packed blockbusters to heartfelt dramas and socially relevant TV series. Here’s your guide to the best on-screen picks from Saturday, 28 September to Friday, 4 October 2024.
Saturday, 28 September 2024
Strictly Come Dancing, Week 2 Live Show (6:35 PM, BBC One)
Strictly Come Dancing brings a different kind of drama. The contestants face the first elimination in the second live show of the season. Celebrities who dazzled in the first week now need to prove they’ve got the staying power. They must win over both the judges and the British public. Strictly is not just about dancing but about personality, perseverance, and spectacle. With dazzling costumes, live music, and witty banter between the judges, it’s the perfect Saturday night entertainment.
What makes Strictly particularly appealing to a British audience is its inclusive nature. The show is a rare example of mainstream television that celebrates diversity in all its forms. It features contestants of different ages, abilities, ethnicities, and backgrounds. Over the years, Strictly has broken barriers. It has included same-sex couples and featured contestants with disabilities. This makes it a reflection of changing societal norms and the celebration of inclusivity.
There’s also something intrinsically comforting and community-building about Strictly. As the country watches in unison, it feels like a collective experience that brings people together, transcending generations. Whether you’re rooting for an underdog or marvelling at a celebrity’s transformation, the show is more than just a competition. It’s a reminder of the power of performance, resilience, and the joy of shared moments in an often fractured world.
Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker’s Apocalypse (1991) (12.55 AM, Film4)
Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker’s Apocalypse is a riveting documentary. It chronicles the tumultuous and nearly disastrous production of Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic film Apocalypse Now. Directed by Eleanor Coppola, George Hickenlooper, and Fax Bahr, the documentary reveals the chaos behind the making of a film. It reveals much more. It also explores the broader social, political, and ethical themes within the narrative of Apocalypse Now. It also explores themes within the filmmaking process itself. At its core, Hearts of Darkness profoundly explores artistic ambition. It also delves into the consequences of power. Additionally, it examines the moral dilemmas faced in the pursuit of art and truth.
The documentary’s political undertones are inseparable from the context of Apocalypse Now. The film adapts Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness to the Vietnam War. The war was not only a geopolitical conflict. It was also a deep moral crisis for the United States. Coppola’s film attempted to capture its madness. In Hearts of Darkness, the film’s production becomes a microcosm of that very war. America was entangled in a chaotic, mismanaged conflict in Vietnam. Similarly, Coppola’s film crew finds itself lost in the jungles of the Philippines. They faced logistical nightmares, escalating costs, and a sense of moral confusion. The documentary subtly draws attention to the parallels between the U.S.’s destructive military intervention and the film industry’s exploitative methods of production.
On a social level, Hearts of Darkness also reflects on the personal toll. Such an ambitious artistic undertaking takes a toll on individuals. Coppola is portrayed as a man teetering on the edge of sanity, consumed by the enormity of his project. His hubris and determination mirror the broader societal obsession with power and control. They also reflect ambition. These themes resonate far beyond the world of film. Coppola’s existential struggle with his creative vision was intense. His personal life reveals the intense psychological and emotional burdens. These burdens accompany the pursuit of greatness. In many ways, his descent into obsession is similar to the descent of Colonel Kurtz in Apocalypse Now. It shows how unchecked ambition can lead to ethical and personal collapse.
The documentary raises important ethical questions. These questions concern the responsibilities of filmmakers toward their crew, cast, and the environment in which they work. Hearts of Darkness doesn’t shy away from showing the exploitation that occurred during the production. It highlights the physical and emotional strain on the cast, particularly Martin Sheen. It also shows the damage done to the Philippines’ environment, where the movie was shot. Coppola’s production used real military helicopters. It bulldozed local landscapes and engaged in dangerous practices. These actions raise serious questions about the ethics of filmmaking when the lines between art and harm are blurred. The film asks viewers to consider whether the end product—a masterpiece of cinema—is worth the human and environmental cost.
Finally, Hearts of Darkness touches on the ethical dilemma of portraying violence and war in art. Coppola’s mission was to depict the madness of war in a way that felt real and visceral. But in doing so, the film crew recreated that chaos, sometimes at great personal and moral expense. This mirrors a broader ethical debate within art and media. How do we balance the need to tell difficult, uncomfortable truths? How can we avoid exploiting real suffering? The documentary raises the uncomfortable question. Did Coppola’s film glorify the very violence and moral degradation it sought to condemn?
Hearts of Darkness is more than just a behind-the-scenes look at the making of a great film. It is a meditation on the personal, social, and political costs of artistic creation. Through its lens, we see the blurry line between madness and genius, power and exploitation, and creation and destruction. The documentary is a powerful reminder that art, like war, is often fraught with ethical challenges. It asks viewers to confront the human consequences of creative ambition.
Strange Days (1995) 12.10 AM Talking Pictures
Strange Days (1995), directed by Kathryn Bigelow and written by James Cameron, is a dystopian sci-fi thriller. It takes place on the eve of the millennium in a near-future Los Angeles engulfed in social unrest and chaos. The film explores themes of race, police brutality, and technological addiction. It also examines the ethical boundaries of memory and surveillance. This makes it remarkably prescient. Beneath its gripping narrative of murder, conspiracy, and voyeurism lies a dark social commentary. It delves into power, exploitation, and the moral decay of society.
At its core, Strange Days addresses the politics of race and police violence in ways that feel shockingly relevant today. The film’s depiction of a society on the brink of collapse is punctuated by rampant police brutality. This brutality is particularly directed towards Black communities. It also includes the suppression of social movements demanding justice. One of the key plotlines involves the murder of a Black activist by the police. The film presents a clear critique of institutional racism and the militarization of law enforcement. The film was released after the Rodney King beating and subsequent riots in Los Angeles. Its commentary on racial injustice is notable. It focuses on police impunity and the violent repression of marginalized communities. This resonates deeply with contemporary social movements like Black Lives Matter.
The political implications of Strange Days extend to its exploration of surveillance and the commodification of memory. In the film, a device called SQUID allows users to record and relive sensory experiences. This creates a black market for other people’s memories. This taps into ethical concerns about technology and privacy that have only become more relevant in the digital age. Bigelow presents a chilling vision of a society where personal experiences can be bought, sold, and exploited for entertainment. Even traumatic ones can be bought, sold, and exploited. This raises ethical questions about voyeurism, consent, and the boundaries of personal agency. This future feels uncomfortably close to our own, where surveillance capitalism has commodified nearly every aspect of human experience.
Strange Days also delves into the psychology of escapism and addiction. It does this particularly through its protagonist, Lenny Nero (Ralph Fiennes). Lenny is a former cop turned black market memory dealer. Lenny’s obsession with reliving his memories of a lost love reflects the broader societal desire to escape reality. This is especially true in times of chaos and uncertainty. His addiction to the past mirrors the wider social addiction to technology. People also use entertainment and distraction to avoid the harsh realities of life. In this sense, the film serves as a critique of the way societies use technology not just for progress. It also critiques how societies use it as a means to numb themselves to systemic violence and injustice.
On an ethical level, Strange Days forces viewers to confront the moral implications of technology’s role in human exploitation. The SQUID device was originally developed by the government for surveillance. It is now used for voyeuristic consumption. People can experience everything from petty crimes to sexual assaults as if they were happening to them. The film raises ethical questions about consent, the boundaries of experience, and the allure of violent spectacle. It questions whether humanity, when given the means to witness anything without consequence, will always choose the most depraved experiences. Will people always opt for voyeuristic experiences? In this way, Bigelow critiques not only the characters in her story. She also critiques the audience’s complicity in consuming violent and sensationalist media.
Strange Days is more than just a futuristic noir thriller. It is a prescient social critique of the intersections between race, technology, and power. Bigelow weaves together a narrative about police corruption, technological abuse, and the addictive nature of memories. She presents a future that feels disturbingly close to our present reality. The film’s themes of voyeurism, institutional injustice, and the commodification of human experience offer a thought-provoking commentary. These themes explore the ethical dilemmas that arise when technology surpasses our moral capacity to control it. In today’s world of mass surveillance, systemic inequality, and digital escapism, Strange Days feels as timely as ever.
Sunday, 29 September 2024
The Crown, Final Season Premiere (8:00 AM, Netflix UK)
The final season of The Crown arrives on Netflix UK at 8:00 AM. It marks the end of an era for one of the most talked-about shows of the last decade. The premiere episode focuses on the aftermath of Princess Diana’s death. It also highlights the mounting pressure on Queen Elizabeth II as the monarchy faces its biggest crisis in modern times. Imelda Staunton delivers a nuanced performance as an ageing Queen. She grapples with the consequences of her decisions and the demands of modernisation. UK audiences are likely to feel the weight of this series’ conclusion. The Crown has always mirrored Britain’s shifting relationship with its monarchy.
In its final season, The Crown does not shy away. It delves into the ethical dilemmas surrounding the monarchy’s relevance in the 21st century. As republican sentiments grow and the public’s expectations change, the series questions the very foundation of the institution itself. Issues of class, tradition, and public service come under the microscope. The series offers a thoughtful exploration of Britain’s complex relationship with its royal family. The show carefully balances sympathy for its characters with a critique of their privilege and isolation.
For UK viewers, The Crown holds a particular resonance as it covers real historical events that shaped the national psyche. The final season will undoubtedly stir reflection on the monarchy’s role in modern society. It will especially touch on the contentious issues of media intrusion, public accountability, and personal sacrifice. It’s an emotionally charged start to what promises to be a fittingly dramatic conclusion.
Tracker (2010) (10:00 AM GREAT!movies)
Tracker is an intense and gripping film. It follows Arjan, a war veteran, who is hired to catch Kereama, a man accused of murder. The story takes place in New Zealand, and the landscape is wild and beautiful. As Arjan tracks Kereama through the rough land, the movie turns into more than just a chase.
The relationship between the two men is complicated. Arjan believes Kereama is guilty, but as they spend time together, he begins to question things. Kereama tells his side of the story, and it becomes clear that not everything is as it seems. Both men are haunted by their pasts, and their journey forces them to face truths they’ve been running from.
The film explores the idea of justice and revenge. Arjan is driven by duty, but his sense of right and wrong starts to shift. Kereama is fighting for his life and his honor. Their conflict is not just physical—it’s a battle of beliefs and experiences. As they travel together, they start to see each other as more than enemies.
Tracker leaves you thinking about trust and survival. It shows how easy it is to judge someone based on what you’ve been told. Things can change when you see their side. The movie is about more than just catching a fugitive. It’s about understanding. It’s about redemption. It’s about the cost of the choices we make. It’s a simple story with deep meaning, set against a stunning backdrop.
The Power of One (1992) (21:00 PM Legend)
The Power of One is a gripping and emotional journey. It is set against the backdrop of South Africa during the height of apartheid. It follows the life of a young English boy, PK, who grows up in a deeply divided society. From a very early age, PK learns about the harsh realities of inequality. He learns about these harsh realities both in his own personal life and in the world around him. The movie cleverly shows how the experiences of childhood—bullying, isolation, and loss—can shape a person’s character. They can also drive them toward making a difference.
As PK grows older, he becomes deeply aware of the injustices around him. He builds relationships with people of different backgrounds, like Geel Piet and Doc. These challenge the rigid divisions that exist in society. These relationships challenge the rigid divisions that exist in society. These friendships expose him to new perspectives. They especially highlight the value of courage and standing up for what’s right. This holds true even when the odds are stacked against you. You really feel for the characters. They try their best to navigate a system that’s intent on keeping them in their place. Through PK’s eyes, the film captures the way oppressive structures can harm both individuals and entire communities.
One of the most powerful elements of the movie is how it shows PK’s growing desire. He wants to make a real change. His passion for boxing becomes a symbol of his fight for justice. It’s not just about the sport. It’s about proving that no matter who you are. No matter where you come from, you can rise above the limitations imposed on you. The way he uses his platform to speak out and inspire others resonates on a deeper level. It reflects how individuals can influence larger movements, even in the face of resistance.
The film doesn’t shy away from showing the costs of resistance either. Sacrifice, loss, and the tension between hope and despair are constant themes. These themes make the story feel all the more real. It’s a film that speaks to anyone who’s ever felt powerless. It also speaks to those who believe in the possibility of change. The credits roll. The Power of One leaves you reflecting on the importance of standing up for what’s right. It does this no matter how daunting the challenge.
Monday, 30 September 2024
The Last Tree (2019) (02:25 AM Channel 4)
The Last Tree (2019) is a powerful and emotional film. It tells the story of Femi, a young boy growing up in two different worlds. First, he lives in the peaceful countryside with his foster mother. Then, he moves to London to live with his real mom. The change is hard, and he struggles to find where he belongs.
The film shows how Femi tries to fit in. In London, life is rougher. He faces new challenges, from school to the streets, and even with his own mother. You can feel his confusion as he tries to understand who he is. He’s caught between two cultures and two ideas of home. This makes him question everything he thought he knew.
Femi’s relationship with his mother is tough to watch at times. She’s strict and doesn’t show much warmth, which is the opposite of his foster mom. This clash shapes how Femi sees the world. He’s torn between following what others expect of him and staying true to the gentle boy he once was. The film quietly shows how the people and places around us shape who we become.
By the end, The Last Tree leaves you thinking about identity and home. Femi’s journey is about more than just where he lives—it’s about finding himself. It’s a story of struggle, growth, and trying to make sense of a world that often feels confusing and unfair. The film is simple but deep, and it leaves a strong impact.
Truman & Tennessee: An Intimate Conversation (2021) (23:30 PM BBC4)
Truman & Tennessee: An Intimate Conversation (2021) is a quiet yet powerful film. It tells the story of two famous writers, Truman Capote and Tennessee Williams. Through their words and letters, we get a peek into their friendship and struggles. Their lives were full of both fame and pain, and this film lets us see that up close.
The movie shows how much the two men had in common. Both were outsiders in their own way, and they often felt lonely. As they grew older, they faced harsh judgment from the world around them. But they also found strength in each other’s company, even when they disagreed. Their friendship was not always easy, but it was important to both of them.
What stands out is how the film highlights their need to be heard. Each man had a unique voice. They used it to talk about things many people didn’t want to talk about. They were brave in a time when not everyone understood or accepted them. Even when they felt broken, they kept creating, which is inspiring to see.
In the end, this documentary is more than just a look at two famous people. It’s a story about friendship, loneliness, and the search for understanding. It makes you think about how hard it can be to stay true to yourself. It also makes you realize how important it is to have someone who understands you, even when the world doesn’t.
Tuesday, 1 October 2024
Tuesday, 1 October 2024
Scarface (1983) 11 PM Film4
Scarface is a bold and intense film. It follows Tony Montana, a Cuban immigrant, as he rises to power in the drug world. Starting with nothing, Tony works his way up through violence and ambition. The film shows how far someone will go to get what they want, no matter the cost.
Tony’s rise is fast, but so is his downfall. His hunger for power and wealth grows too big, and it starts to destroy him. The people around him—friends, family, even his lover—become victims of his greed. He builds a world full of luxury, but also danger. The film shows how success built on crime and betrayal can’t last.
What makes Scarface stand out is how it explores Tony’s character. He’s ruthless, but you can also see the emptiness inside him. He craves respect, but doesn’t know when to stop. His journey is a warning about chasing too much, too fast. The film captures the pressure to succeed, even if it means losing your soul along the way.
Scarface leaves you thinking about the price of power. Tony’s story is thrilling but tragic. It shows how the drive for more—money, status, control—can lead to self-destruction. The movie is loud, flashy, and violent. But at its core, it’s a story about choices, consequences, and the dangers of living without limits.
Wednesday, 2 October 2024
The Great British Bake Off, Episode 2 (8:00 PM, Channel 4)
Comfort TV doesn’t get any better than The Great British Bake Off. It continues its latest season at 8:00 PM on Channel 4 with Biscuit Week. The bakers attempt to create show-stopping biscuit designs. The episode offers the usual mix of technical challenges, personal stories, and light-hearted humour. Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding provide delightful commentary. Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith give their signature critiques. This creates a perfect blend of tension and warmth.
What makes Bake Off stand out is its celebration of diversity and inclusivity. The show’s contestants come from all walks of life, representing different regions, cultures, and backgrounds across the UK. They share their stories and recipes. Bake Off becomes more than just a cooking competition. It’s a reflection of British multiculturalism and the way food can bring people together.
At a time when political and social divisions can feel overwhelming, The Great British Bake Off comforts us. It reminds us of the common threads that unite us. The show offers a comforting reminder of the common threads that unite us. Through the simple act of baking, contestants share their cultural heritage. They also share personal experiences and culinary skills. This creates a sense of community and connection.
Yardie (2018) (11.30 PM BBC2)
Idris Elba’s directorial debut, “Yardie,” is a film that takes us on a journey through the life of ‘D’, a young man caught in the crossfires of crime and his quest for identity. The movie, set against the vibrant backdrop of ’70s Kingston and ’80s London, tells a story of revenge and moral conflict. The narrative is a tapestry of cultural beats and the struggle to find one’s path in a world that is constantly shifting underfoot.
The film’s strength lies in its authenticity; the characters are not just faces but voices that represent a community often unheard. Elba brings to life the pulsating energy of the music and the streets, creating a world that is both familiar and new. The protagonist, ‘D’, portrayed with depth by Aml Ameen, navigates this world with a sense of purpose that is both compelling and heartbreaking.
What stands out in “Yardie” is the raw, gritty poetry of the language and the powerful mythology it mines. It’s a tale that, while not unique in its premise, is distinctive in its execution. The cinematography captures the essence of two contrasting worlds – the warmth of Jamaica and the cold, harsh reality of London. This visual storytelling is as much a character in the film as ‘D’ himself.
Despite some narrative unevenness, “Yardie” is a film that resonates with the spirit of resilience and the search for redemption. It’s a reminder that the choices we make are echoes of our past, and sometimes, the hardest battles are fought within the confines of one’s soul.
Thursday, 3 October 2024
Soldier Blue (1970) (9:00 PM LEGEND)
“Soldier Blue” (1970) is a standout film in the Western genre. It was one of the first movies I saw that portrayed Native Americans in a sympathetic way. Instead of just the usual bad guys, we see them as real people with their own stories and struggles. This shift makes the film feel fresh and important.
The story follows a soldier and a Native American woman. Their journey reveals the harsh truths about conflict and betrayal. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the violence faced by Native Americans, particularly in the shocking massacre scene. It’s brutal and hard to watch, but it drives home the reality of the era. This perspective adds depth to the typical Western tale.
The characters are well-developed and relatable. The soldier starts off with a narrow view of the world, but as the story unfolds, he learns and grows. His relationship with the Native American woman highlights love and trust, showcasing that understanding each other is essential. The performances really bring these characters to life.
Visually, “Soldier Blue” is striking. The landscapes are beautiful, contrasting sharply with the violence in the massacre. This mix of action and reflection makes it unforgettable. Overall, the film challenges the norms of its time and offers a new lens through which to view an old story. It’s a powerful reminder of the complexities of history.
House of the Dragon, Season 2 Finale (9:00 PM, Sky Atlantic UK)
The House of the Dragon Season 2 finale airs on Sky Atlantic UK at 9:00 PM. It promises an epic conclusion to the Targaryen civil war. The battle for the Iron Throne intensifies. Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) and Daemon (Matt Smith) face off against their rivals in a deadly clash of fire and blood. This episode delivers everything fans of the Game of Thrones universe have come to expect. It includes political intrigue, family drama, and dragon-fuelled action. It comes with even more emotional weight and stakes.
What sets House of the Dragon apart from its predecessor is its focus on the consequences of power and ambition. The series doesn’t just revel in its epic battles and betrayals—it explores the human cost of pursuing the Iron Throne. Rhaenyra’s struggles as a female leader in a patriarchal society resonate with modern discussions about gender and power. Daemon’s ruthless ambition raises ethical questions about the lengths one will go to secure their legacy.
Summer of Soul (2021) (02:20 AM, Channel 4)
“Summer of Soul” (2021) is a fantastic documentary that brings the Harlem Cultural Festival back into the spotlight. This event, often forgotten, was filled with amazing music and joy. It featured iconic artists like Stevie Wonder and Nina Simone. Watching it feels like stepping into a vibrant time in history.
The film captures the energy of the festival beautifully. You see crowds dancing and celebrating. It’s not just about the music; it’s about community and pride. People came together to enjoy, connect, and express themselves. This sense of unity shines through every performance.
The documentary also highlights the struggles of the time. It was a period filled with social change and challenges. By showcasing the festival, it reminds us of the importance of joy and resilience in the face of difficulties. The stories from attendees add depth, showing how the event impacted their lives.
“Summer of Soul” is more than just a music film. It’s a celebration of culture and history. The footage is incredible, and the music is timeless. It encourages us to remember and honour those moments that shape who we are. This film is a must-see for anyone who loves music and wants to understand its power.
Friday, 4 October 2024
Animal Farm (1954) (11:00 AM Film4)
“Animal Farm” (1954) is a classic animated film that tells a powerful story about animals taking control of their farm. The film begins with the animals wanting freedom from their human owner, Mr. Jones. They dream of a place where everyone is equal and works together. This idea is inspiring and sets the stage for what’s to come.
As the animals create their new society, things start to change. The pigs, led by Napoleon, take charge. At first, they promise fairness, but soon they begin to resemble the humans they overthrew. This shift serves as a sharp critique of the Soviet Union and Stalinism, showing how power can corrupt even the best intentions. It highlights how some leaders may betray their own people for control.
The characters are memorable and represent different traits. For example, Boxer the horse embodies hard work and loyalty, while the clever pigs manipulate the other animals. Their journey reflects how easily trust can be broken and how propaganda can twist the truth. The film raises important questions about leadership and responsibility.
Visually, “Animal Farm” has a unique style that captures the emotions of the story. The animation enhances the themes, making the animals relatable. Overall, the film is a thought-provoking tale about dreams, power, and the struggle for true equality. It leaves you reflecting on how history can repeat itself if we’re not careful, reminding us of the dangers of unchecked authority.
Joker (2019) (9:00 PM ITV
“Joker” (2019) dives deep into the heart of Gotham, a city that’s a powder keg of struggles. It’s a place where laughter is rare and frowns are the norm. The film follows Arthur Fleck, a man ignored by society, painting a vivid picture of his descent into the iconic villain we all know. Joaquin Phoenix brings Arthur to life with a performance that’s nothing short of haunting. He captures the essence of a man on the edge, one bad day away from breaking.
The streets of Gotham are a character in their own right, reflecting the divide between the haves and have-nots. It’s a grim backdrop for Arthur’s story, where every corner seems to whisper tales of forgotten dreams. The film doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities many face, and it’s this raw honesty that sticks with you.
Now, there’s a buzz about the new film, “Joker: Folie À Deux,” set to hit theaters soon. It promises to be another deep dive into the chaos that one man can create. The anticipation is high, and fans are eager to see what twists and turns this next chapter will bring to the Joker’s tale.
“Joker” isn’t just a movie; it’s a mirror reflecting parts of our world we often choose to ignore. It’s a bold, unflinching look at what happens when someone is pushed too far. And with the sequel on the horizon, the conversation it sparked is far from over. Get ready to put on a happy face – the Joker’s dance isn’t done just yet.
Picture Credits
Truman Capote: By Jack Mitchell, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=15047401
Leave a Reply