Counter Culture

Welcome to Culture Vulture – Your Alternative Weekly Entertainment Guide. Writing is by Pat Harrington and music is by Tim Bragg.

Highlights this week include:

• The Sisters Brothers (2018) – A revisionist Western that subverts genre conventions, following two bounty-hunting brothers on a journey of survival, greed, and self-discovery.
• Belfast (2021) – A poignant coming-of-age drama set against the backdrop of 1960s Northern Ireland, capturing the innocence of youth amid political turmoil.
• Respect (2021) – A powerful biopic of Aretha Franklin, showcasing her rise to fame, struggles, and enduring legacy through an unforgettable performance by Jennifer Hudson.

Now, onto this week’s full selection of films and programmes.

Saturday 1st February 2025

Women Who Rock – Sky Arts from 9pm
A celebration of women who reshaped the music industry. Their struggles and triumphs reflect wider changes in society. The show captures the energy and defiance of artists who refused to conform.
The documentary highlights how music became a form of resistance. Each performer carved a space in a male-dominated world. The interviews reveal personal sacrifices behind public success.
Viewers will see how these women changed perceptions. Their influence reaches beyond music into fashion and activism. The programme is a reminder of the power of creative expression.

Judgment at Nuremberg (1961) – BBC2 12.45pm
A courtroom drama that examines responsibility. The focus is not only on the accused but also on those who looked the other way. The film asks difficult questions about morality and justice.
Performances are powerful, particularly Spencer Tracy as the judge. The script avoids easy answers, forcing viewers to consider uncomfortable truths. The weight of history is felt in every scene.
Decades later, the questions remain relevant. The film warns against blind obedience and moral compromise. A stark reminder of how societies justify their worst actions.

Poly Styrene: I Am a Cliché – Sky Arts 2am
A raw and intimate portrait of an artist ahead of her time. Poly Styrene challenged conventions, both in punk music and in life. Her story is one of rebellion and self-discovery.
The film explores her impact on music and identity. Personal letters and interviews reveal a woman torn between ambition and expectation. Her mixed heritage shaped her outsider status.
More than a biography, this is a story about finding a voice. It resonates with anyone who has felt out of place. Her influence continues in today’s alternative music scene.

Sunday 2nd February 2025

The Straight Story (1999) – Film4 4.30pm
A slow and meditative film about an elderly man’s journey. He travels across America on a lawnmower, determined to reconnect with his brother. The simplicity of the story hides great emotional depth.
David Lynch directs with restraint, showing warmth rather than his usual darkness. The performances feel authentic, particularly from Richard Farnsworth. The film lingers on landscapes, emphasising time and memory.
It is a quiet reflection on aging and regret. The journey is physical, but also symbolic. The film asks whether old wounds can ever truly heal.

Harrods: The Rise and Fall of a British Institution – Channel 5 9pm
Once a symbol of luxury, Harrods represents changing economic tides. The documentary traces its history from family-run business to foreign ownership. Behind the glamour is a tale of power and shifting fortunes.
The programme exposes the conflicts between tradition and modernisation. It shows how consumer culture evolved alongside British society. The store’s rise mirrors imperial confidence, its sale reflects global shifts.
More than just a shop, Harrods embodies national identity. The film questions what is lost when heritage is sold. It is a case study in money and influence.

Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde: The Read with Reece Shearsmith – BBC4 9pm
A chilling reading of a classic tale. Shearsmith brings the dual nature of man to life. His performance captures the fear and fascination of the original text.
The gothic horror remains unsettling today. The story explores hidden desires and suppressed instincts. It suggests that civilisation is only a thin veil.
This adaptation reminds us why the story endures. The duality within us all is both disturbing and compelling. A gripping interpretation of a timeless tale.

Ian Rankin Investigates: Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde – BBC4 10.05pm
Rankin explores the real inspirations behind Stevenson’s novel. He delves into Victorian anxieties and the idea of the double life. The true history is as eerie as the fiction.
Interviews with experts reveal deeper meanings. The investigation links the story to crime, class, and repression. Stevenson’s world was one of contradictions and secrets.
A fascinating look at why the story still haunts us. The themes remain familiar, even in modern society. A perfect companion piece to the previous programme.

Belfast (2021) – BBC2 10pm
Kenneth Branagh’s semi-autobiographical film captures childhood in a divided city. The innocence of youth contrasts with the backdrop of violence. The black-and-white cinematography adds a nostalgic quality.
The story is told through a child’s eyes, softening but not erasing the pain. There are moments of humour and warmth, making the loss feel sharper. Family bonds provide strength amid uncertainty.
A love letter to a city and a past that can’t be reclaimed. The film reminds us that history is personal. A moving account of home and belonging.

The Sisters Brothers (2018) – BBC2 11.30pm

The Sisters Brothers is a revisionist Western that subverts the genre’s conventions. It follows two bounty-hunting brothers navigating a rapidly changing American frontier. Directed by Jacques Audiard, the film balances dark humour with moments of deep introspection. It explores themes of violence, greed, and fractured familial bonds.

Joaquin Phoenix and John C. Reilly deliver compelling performances as the titular brothers. Phoenix’s Charlie is impulsive and reckless, while Reilly’s Eli is burdened by a growing conscience. Their dynamic forms the film’s emotional core, as Eli questions their brutal way of life and dreams of something better. Jake Gyllenhaal and Riz Ahmed give strong supporting performances. They add depth to the film’s exploration of shifting loyalties. They also enhance the portrayal of evolving ideals.

The cinematography by Benoît Debie captures the stark beauty of the Western landscape. From sun-scorched plains to dimly lit saloons, every frame enhances the film’s melancholic tone. The film’s visual storytelling is meticulous, highlighting both the isolation and camaraderie of its characters.

The score, composed by Alexandre Desplat, blends traditional Western sounds with a haunting, modern sensibility. The music highlights the film’s tension. It strengthens the introspective moments. This reinforces the sense of an old world fading into a new one.

Thematically, The Sisters Brothers critiques the brutality of frontier justice and the corrosive nature of capitalism. The Gold Rush is depicted as a ruthless pursuit, where survival often comes at the cost of morality. Ethical dilemmas arise as the brothers encounter figures who challenge their worldview. These encounters force them to confront their past and consider the possibility of change.

Critics praised the film’s unique take on the Western genre. Its blend of dark comedy, action, and philosophical depth set it apart from more traditional entries. Some viewers found its pacing deliberate. Others appreciated its contemplative nature. They saw it as a meditation on brotherhood, ambition, and the price of violence.

The Sisters Brothers is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film. It offers a fresh perspective on the Western mythos, grounding its story in human emotion rather than spectacle.

Monday 3rd February 2025

Mr Jones (2019)
A journalist uncovers a famine that others choose to ignore. The film exposes how truth is manipulated. The protagonist risks everything to reveal reality.
The visuals shift between cold desolation and propaganda’s warmth. The contrast shows how suffering is hidden. The cost of truth is painfully high.
A film about courage and complicity. Silence enables cruelty, while speaking out invites danger. A reminder that stories shape history.

Fire Island (2022)
A reimagining of Pride and Prejudice set in a modern LGBTQ+ holiday retreat. The film mixes wit with social commentary. It celebrates community while exposing its flaws.
Romance is central, but so is friendship. The characters navigate love, status, and belonging. The humour makes deeper themes more accessible.
A joyful yet thoughtful film. It reminds us that acceptance isn’t always easy. A refreshing take on a classic tale.

Tuesday 4th February 2025

All The Money In The World (2017) – GREAT!movies 9pm
A thriller based on real events. The film follows the kidnapping of John Paul Getty III. His grandfather’s refusal to pay the ransom dominates the narrative.
The story highlights greed and power. The boy’s suffering is secondary to financial concerns. Family bonds are tested against corporate interests.
A tense and stylish drama. Christopher Plummer delivers a cold yet captivating performance. A study of how wealth distorts human relationships.

Mussolini: Son of the Century – Sky Arts 9pm
A documentary exploring the rise of a dictator. It traces his journey from socialism to totalitarianism. The programme pieces together rare footage and expert analysis.
It examines how ambition turns into authoritarian rule. The film shows how a leader’s early ideals can curdle into oppression. The dangers of political idolatry are evident.
A necessary history lesson. The past offers warnings for the present. The documentary challenges viewers to see patterns in modern politics.

Wednesday 5th February 2025

Respect (2021) – BBC1 11.15pm
The story of Aretha Franklin’s rise to fame. Jennifer Hudson delivers a commanding performance. The music carries the film, but so does its emotional weight.
It explores the pressures of success. Franklin’s voice made history, but her journey was fraught with struggle. The film does not shy away from personal hardships.
More than a biography, it is a tribute. A reminder of the resilience behind the legend. A powerful portrayal of an artist’s fight to be heard.

Mean Streets (1973) – Film4 11.35pm
Scorsese’s early masterpiece. A gritty look at loyalty and survival in Little Italy. The film’s raw energy and improvisational style make it feel real.
Harvey Keitel and Robert De Niro shine as young men caught between crime and conscience. The streets are their battleground. Violence is both a choice and a fate.
An essential watch for those who love character-driven films. It laid the foundation for Scorsese’s later classics. A look at ambition, failure, and redemption.

Thursday 6th February 2025

Oliver! (1968) – Film4 4.10pm
A musical that remains beloved. The story of an orphan in Victorian London. Songs and performances make it an enduring classic.
Beneath the charm is a tale of survival. The film does not ignore the harsh realities of poverty. Dickens’ world is softened but not erased.
A family favourite with dark undercurrents. The contrast between joy and hardship makes it compelling. A classic that still resonates.

Some Like It Hot (1959) – BBC4 8.20pm
A comedy masterpiece. Two musicians disguise themselves as women to escape the mob. The humour is sharp, and the performances iconic.
Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis have perfect timing. Marilyn Monroe adds charm and melancholy. The film balances farce with genuine emotion.
Beneath the laughter is a look at identity and deception. A film ahead of its time. Endlessly rewatchable and still relevant.

Can Elon Musk Rule The World – Channel 4 9pm
A documentary examining one of the most controversial figures today. It explores his vision and influence. The programme asks whether one man should hold so much power.
Musk’s innovations have changed industries. But ambition comes with consequences. The film presents both his brilliance and his flaws.
An insightful investigation into modern leadership. Technology and capitalism intertwine. The future may rest in the hands of a few.

Pitch Black (2000) – ITV4 9pm
A sci-fi thriller with a cult following. A transport ship crashes on a dark planet. The survivors face both internal and external threats.
Vin Diesel’s anti-hero dominates the film. His character walks the line between saviour and predator. The darkness is both literal and symbolic.
Tense, atmospheric, and visually striking. A film that proves sci-fi can be both action-packed and thought-provoking.

Friday 7th February 2025

Ella Fitzgerald Live At Montreux – Sky Arts 8pm
A concert film capturing a jazz legend at her best. Fitzgerald’s voice remains unmatched. Her performance is effortless yet deeply moving.
The setlist is a journey through jazz history. The audience is spellbound. The film showcases her warmth and mastery.
A celebration of pure talent. A must-watch for music lovers. Her voice still enchants decades later.

Ella Fitzgerald: Just One Of Those Things – Sky Arts 9.30pm
A documentary exploring her life and career. The struggles behind the success are revealed. Her rise from hardship to global fame is inspiring.
Interviews and archival footage bring her story to life. The film highlights both her triumphs and personal sacrifices. She reshaped music forever.
A fitting tribute to a true pioneer. Her impact goes beyond jazz. Her legacy is one of perseverance and excellence.

Lynch/OZ – Film4 1.35am
A documentary about the connection between The Wizard of Oz and David Lynch’s films. It delves into cinematic influences and hidden meanings.
Lynch’s work is filled with references to Oz. The documentary explores these links in depth. Filmmakers and critics offer their insights.
A fascinating look at artistic inspiration. It shows how one story can shape another. A must-watch for cinephiles.

And finally, Streaming

On Channel 4 streaming – Walter Presents: The Sketch Artist (Season 3) – from Friday 7th February 2025
A detective series with a unique protagonist. A forensic sketch artist reconstructs faces and memories. The show blends mystery with human insight.
The new season deepens character backstories. It focuses on perception and how we interpret truth. Crime-solving is as much about psychology as evidence.
A gripping drama with an original premise. Fans of intelligent thrillers will be hooked.

On History Hit – Dogs: Their History (Episode One) – from Thursday 6th February 2025
A look at how dogs shaped human lives. From hunting partners to companions, their role has changed. The documentary explores this shared history.
Footage from different cultures highlights contrasts in treatment. The bond between humans and dogs is complex. Some are loved, others exploited.
More than a history lesson, this is a reflection on human nature. Our relationship with animals says much about us.

Picture credits

Judgment at Nuremberg
By “Copyright © 1961 by United Artists Corporation.” – Scan via Heritage Auctions. Cropped from the original image and lightly retouched; see upload history for unretouched original., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=88144188
The Straight Story (1999)
Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3573982
Belfast (2021)
By Studio and or Graphic Artist – [1], Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=68638309
The Sisters Brothers
By https://thefilmstage.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/The-Sisters-Brothers-poster.jpg, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid57505137
Mr Jones (2019)
By IMP Awards, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=59698104
Fire Island (2022)
By Searchlight Pictures – https://twitter.com/searchlightpics/status/1518589402305507329?s=20&t=z98t5jxp96X-UEKqWN4Jfg, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=70626655
All the Money in the World (2017)
By The poster art can or could be obtained from the distributor., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=55238236
Respect (2021)
By IMP Awards / 2021 Movie Poster Gallery / Respect Poster (#6 of 6), Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=62643512
Mean Streets (1973)
By May be found at the following website: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0070379/mediaindex?page=3&ref_=ttmi_mi_sm, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=63535900
Oliver! (1968)
By Oliver1968.co.uk – UK quad., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6697563
Some Like It Hot (1959)
Designed by Macario Gómez Quibus. “Copyright 1959 – United Artists Corp.”. – Scan via LiveAbout. Cropped from original image., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=85794299
Pitch Black (2000)
By The poster art can or could be obtained from USA Films (USA theatrical)Universal Studios (all other rights)., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1209558
Ella Fitzgerald: Just One of Those Things
Aber Bergen
Minx
By HBO Max – Screenshot from the premiere episode, “Not like a shvantz right in the face”, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=117713496
Reece Shearsmith
By PeterCarmichael51 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=151951308
Elon Musk
By The Royal Society, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=152333860
Harrods
By user: Sokkk y – Own work, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3600342
Polystyrene
By Poly_Styrene.png: Uroicaderivative work: Memphisto (talk) – Poly_Styrene.png, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=15033083
Ella Fitzgerald
By Lewin/Kaufman/Schwartz, Public Relations, Beverly Hills – eBay itemphoto frontphoto back, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=19129012
Ian Rankin
By TimDuncan – Own work, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3588034
Mussolini