Saturday 1st of March 2025
Elkie Brooks At The BBC (BBC1, 8.30pm)
A retrospective of one of Britain’s greatest yet often overlooked vocalists. This documentary features performances spanning decades. It highlights how Elkie Brooks evolved from a rock and blues singer to a powerhouse of jazz and pop. Despite her undeniable talent, she never quite received the industry recognition afforded to male contemporaries.
Brooks’ career is a story of perseverance. She has faced a music business that has often been unkind to women. This is especially true for those who age out of its commercial spotlight. Her voice has remained timeless. It is rich with the experience of someone who has lived through the highs and lows of the industry.
This collection of BBC performances is a reminder of an artist whose music endures, even as the industry moves on. It’s also a reflection. The British music scene often fails to properly honour its homegrown talent. This recognition typically comes much later in the artists’ lives. I recently had the pleasure of listening to Elkie on BBC Radio 2’s Piano Room. Her voice is as powerful as ever.
Elkie: Sight And Sound In Concert (BBC1, 9.35pm)
This special captures Brooks at her prime, performing some of her most iconic songs in a live setting. Unlike today’s auto-tuned, overproduced performances, this concert is a testament to the power of raw vocal ability and genuine musicianship.
Brooks’ performance style is intense yet effortless, displaying her ability to move between genres while keeping her signature emotional depth. Songs of love, heartbreak, and personal struggle take centre stage, performed with an authenticity rarely seen in modern pop music.
For long-time fans, this is a nostalgic gem. For newcomers, it’s an introduction to an artist whose voice deserves to be remembered alongside the greats.
Elkie Brooks In Concert 1987 (BBC1, 10.35pm)
A live performance from the late ’80s, this concert showcases Brooks at a transitional moment in her career. By this point, she had cemented her reputation as one of Britain’s finest vocalists, yet mainstream success remained frustratingly elusive.
Performing with a full band, Brooks blends jazz, rock, and blues influences effortlessly. The show highlights her vocal prowess. It also emphasizes her commanding stage presence. This aspect has often been overlooked in discussions about British music legends.
A reminder of an artist. Despite not always getting the attention she deserved, she remained a singular talent. She consistently delivered emotionally charged and musically sophisticated performances.
Prey (2022) (C4, 9.20pm)
Prey strips back the Predator franchise to its primal roots. It replaces the typical military hero with Naru, a young Comanche woman. She must outthink and outlast the alien hunter. This change in perspective reinvigorates the series, shifting the narrative from brute strength to strategy, patience, and adaptability.
The film’s themes extend beyond the survival thriller. Prey is a metaphor for colonial arrogance. It mirrors the way European invaders dismissed Indigenous knowledge and underestimated those they sought to conquer. The Predator, like those colonisers, assumes itself superior, but Naru’s understanding of her environment becomes her greatest weapon.
The decision to release the film with a Comanche-language dub is significant. It marks one of the first major Hollywood films to treat Indigenous representation with genuine care. This is rather than mere tokenism. Prey is not just a great action film. It’s an important step ahead in how stories about the past are told. It also impacts how stories about the future are narrated.
Sicario (2015) (BBC1, 12.30am)
A brutal and unflinching look at the US-Mexico drug war. Sicario follows an idealistic FBI agent. She is thrust into a world where morality is blurred beyond recognition. She soon realises that the war on drugs isn’t about stopping crime—it’s about managing and maintaining power.
The film’s suffocating cinematography and tense, minimalist storytelling expose the reality of militarised policing. The supposed “good guys” are indistinguishable from the criminals they claim to fight. The US government is not an arbiter of justice. Instead, it is a manipulative force. It is willing to use any means necessary to maintain dominance.
Benicio del Toro’s enigmatic character, Alejandro, embodies this moral decay—a man so consumed by revenge that justice becomes irrelevant. Sicario forces viewers to confront the uncomfortable truth that institutions thrive on conflict rather than resolution.
Sunday 2nd of March 2025
Suffragette (2015) (Film4, 6.50pm)
Unlike many historical films, Suffragette does not focus on the famous leaders of the movement. It focuses on the working-class women who carried the fight. Carey Mulligan’s Maud is an ordinary woman. Her gradual radicalisation mirrors the real experiences of countless suffragettes. They risked everything for a future they might not live to see.
The film doesn’t shy away from the movement’s violent tactics. Bombings, arson, and hunger strikes are shown as acts of desperation. These acts were against a system that refused to listen. Today’s history books celebrate the suffrage movement. However, Suffragette reminds us that these women were criminalised, brutalised, and dismissed as terrorists in their own time.
With strong performances and a deeply emotional core, the film is compelling. It forces us to ask: how much of today’s progress was truly “granted” by the establishment? How much was taken by force?
Mark Kermode’s Oscar Winners (BBC4, 7pm)
Mark Kermode breaks down the major Oscar-winning films of the past. He examines not just their artistic merit but also the wider cultural impact. He looks at the political impact they had. A fascinating look at how Hollywood chooses which stories deserve recognition—and which ones don’t.
Nick Cave: This Much I Know To Be True (Sky Arts, 10.55pm)
is an evocative and deeply personal documentary that transcends the typical boundaries of music-focused films. It serves as a creative chronicle. It is also a raw exploration of human resilience. The film delves into themes of grief, reinvention, and the healing potential of art.
The documentary is set against the backdrop of Nick Cave’s transformative journey following the tragic loss of his son. This devastating event has profoundly shaped his music, which now carries an unparalleled depth, moving toward rawer, more spiritual expressions. The film captures this evolution. It offers an intimate glimpse into the artist’s world. He processes his pain and channels it into his creative work.
The film does not center on the mechanics of the music industry. Rather, it focuses on universal human experiences. It presents creativity as a means to cope with loss. Through candid moments, poignant performances, and reflective interviews, it paints a portrait of Cave as an artist. He navigates the intersection of sorrow and hope. He finds meaning through his art.
This Much I Know to Be True is not just a documentary. It is a testament to the power of creativity as a tool for understanding and overcoming grief. It’s a film that resonates on a deeply human level, celebrating the courage to transform tragedy into profound, transformative beauty.
Glory (1989) (Film4, 11.45pm)
This is a historical war film. It tells the true story of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment. It was one of the first Black regiments in the American Civil War. Despite fighting for the North, these men are still treated as second-class citizens, their sacrifices often unrecognised.
Denzel Washington’s Oscar-winning performance is a highlight. He portrays a soldier who understands that the fight for equality will not be over, even in victory. The film’s final battle sequence is devastating. This is not just because of the brutality of war. It is also tragically ironic. The men leading the charge may never see the justice they fought for.
Glory is not just a war film. It is a statement on who gets to be remembered in history. It is also about who is erased. It remains as relevant now as ever.
Monday 3rd of March 2025
The Last Duel (2021) (Film4, 9pm)
Ridley Scott’s The Last Duel explores power, truth, and gender in a way that feels disturbingly relevant today. The story is set in medieval France. It tells the tale of Marguerite de Carrouges. She accuses a powerful man of rape. This leads to the last legally sanctioned duel in history.
The film is structured in three parts, showing the same events from different perspectives. The first two—told from the viewpoints of the men—distort reality to fit their egos. Only Marguerite’s account, painful and brutally honest, rings true. This storytelling choice exposes how history has always been shaped by those in power.
The final duel is visually spectacular, but the film’s real power lies in its aftermath. Marguerite’s survival does not bring her justice—just a different struggle. A sharp indictment of how women’s voices have been silenced for centuries.
Israel And The Palestinians (two of three) (BBC2, 9pm)
The second episode of Israel and the Palestinians continues its in-depth exploration. It examines one of the most enduring and complex conflicts in modern history. This installment delves into the intricate web of diplomacy, failed peace talks, and the human cost of the ongoing crisis. The documentary takes a meticulous approach. It examines pivotal moments in the conflict. It offers insights from key political figures, diplomats, and those directly affected. The narrative is both sobering and enlightening. It sheds light on the challenges of achieving peace in a region fraught with historical grievances and geopolitical tensions.
What sets this episode apart is its balanced presentation of perspectives. The filmmakers have gone to great lengths to include voices from all sides, creating a nuanced portrayal of the conflict. The episode highlights the complexities of negotiation through interviews with Israeli and Palestinian leaders. It also features conversations with international mediators. The deep-seated mistrust often derails progress. Archival footage provides emotional weight. Personal testimonies remind viewers of the human lives at the heart of the political struggle.
This episode serves as a reminder of the fragility of peace. It highlights the resilience of those who continue to hope for a resolution. It does not shy away from the harsh realities of the conflict. It also underscores the potential for understanding and reconciliation. Israel and the Palestinians offers a compelling viewing experience. It presents the historical aspects of the issue. It also shows the contemporary dimensions. It is thought-provoking and encourages reflection on the broader implications of the crisis.
Oscars Highlights (ITV1, 10.45pm)
A glittering showcase of Hollywood’s finest combines the glamour of the red carpet with profound reflections. It provokes thought on the industry’s influence on global storytelling. The ceremony dazzles with wealth and celebration. However, it also prompts important questions about representation. We must consider which voices are heard and which are excluded from the narratives we celebrate.
This year’s Oscars showcase a diverse array of films, each contributing unique perspectives to the cinematic landscape. Emilia Pérez leads with an impressive 13 nominations. These include Best Picture and a historic Best Actress nod for Karla Sofía Gascón. The thought-provoking The Brutalist and the vibrant Wicked are other notable contenders. Each has 10 nominations. Compelling entries like Anora and A Complete Unknown also stand out. These films highlight the expanding diversity in storytelling. They also underline the ongoing challenges in creating an equitable platform for all voices.
As the awards are handed out, Oscars Highlights encourages viewers to think critically about Hollywood’s role in shaping cultural narratives. The night celebrates artistic achievements. It also reflects the inequalities within the industry. This challenges audiences to consider how we define and reward greatness in storytelling. Beyond the glitz and glamour, the show reflects broader struggles. It mirrors the quest for authenticity in global cinema.
The Death Of Stalin (2017) (BBC1, 11.55pm)
Armando Iannucci’s The Death of Stalin is a masterful political satire that walks the fine line between absurdity and horror. The film is set in the chaotic days following the sudden demise of Joseph Stalin in 1953. It turns a brutal period of history into dark comedy. The movie exposes the paranoia, incompetence, and opportunism of authoritarian rule. The characters scramble over each other in their frantic bids for power. Yet, the film never lets the audience forget the deadly stakes. Decisions made in smoky rooms determine who lives and who disappears forever.
What makes The Death of Stalin so compelling is its ability to highlight the sheer absurdity of totalitarianism. Every scene is infused with an unsettling mix of humour and menace. Stalin’s ministers awkwardly step over his body, terrified to be the first to acknowledge he is dead. There are also desperate attempts to rewrite history even as it unfolds. Power in such regimes is not about ideology or governance but about survival. Figures like Steve Buscemi’s Nikita Khrushchev are caught in a loop of constant betrayal. Simon Russell Beale’s monstrous Lavrentiy Beria also engages in these treacherous acts. They know that any misstep could lead to execution.
Beneath the sharp dialogue and comedic timing, the film carries a serious message. Authoritarianism doesn’t just rely on violence. It thrives on fear, loyalty tests, and the erasure of truth. The film’s final moments show Khrushchev consolidating power in an eerily similar manner to his predecessor. This makes it clear that tyranny isn’t about individuals. It is about systems that allow such rule to continue. The Death of Stalin is not just a historical farce. It chillingly reminds us of how power operates. History repeats itself when those in control focus on self-preservation more than justice.
Tuesday 4th of March 2025
Seeking Satoshi: The Mystery Bitcoin Creator (one of two) (C4, 10pm)
Bitcoin has long been hailed as a financial revolution, but its origins remain shrouded in secrecy. This documentary attempts to uncover the true identity of Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous figure credited with inventing Bitcoin.
The first episode of Seeking Satoshi: The Mystery Bitcoin Creator (C4, 10pm) embarks on a fascinating journey. It investigates the enigmatic origins of Bitcoin, the revolutionary cryptocurrency. Bitcoin has transformed the financial world. Journalist Gabriel Gatehouse leads this documentary. It explores the mystery surrounding Satoshi Nakamoto. He is the pseudonymous figure credited with creating Bitcoin. The episode uses investigative reporting and compelling storytelling. It explores the cultural and economic impact of Bitcoin. It also questions the true identity of its elusive creator.
The episode takes viewers to a mega Bitcoin gathering in Miami. It reveals the cryptocurrency’s political ambitions. It also uncovers its ideological underpinnings. It raises thought-provoking questions about the promises of decentralization and financial freedom. These are juxtaposed with the realities of inequality and unaccountability that have emerged in the crypto world. The documentary skillfully balances technical insights with human stories, making it accessible to both crypto enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
What makes this episode particularly engaging is its ability to weave together the technical, cultural, and philosophical dimensions of Bitcoin. It challenges viewers to ask an important question. Does Bitcoin remain a radical alternative to traditional financial systems? Or has it been co-opted by the very institutions it sought to disrupt? Seeking Satoshi possesses investigative depth. Its captivating narrative sets the stage for a gripping exploration of one of the most intriguing mysteries in modern technology.
Coriolanus (2011) (BBC2, 11.05pm)
This modern reimagining of Shakespeare’s Coriolanus transforms the classic tale of war and political betrayal into a contemporary thriller. Ralph Fiennes directs and stars as the titular general. He is revered for his military prowess. Yet, he is despised for his inability to connect with the people.
The film’s urban warfare setting, complete with news broadcasts and riot police, makes it feel eerily relevant. It explores the dangers of unchecked power. It examines the manipulation of populism. It shows how the public’s favour can shift with alarming speed. Coriolanus is a man who sees himself above the masses. His downfall comes not from his enemies but from his failure to understand the people he claims to protect.
The film forces us to think on modern politics. Leaders who refuse to engage with ordinary citizens often find themselves cast out. This is not because they are unworthy. It is because the system demands a balance of power and perception. A striking and intense adaptation that proves Shakespeare’s themes stay timeless.
No Other Land (2024) (C4, 11.15pm)
This powerful documentary captures the reality of Palestinian displacement from the perspective of those experiencing it firsthand. Mainstream Western coverage often dilutes the urgency of the situation. No Other Land refuses to sanitize the brutal destruction of homes. It highlights the forced removal of entire communities.
Filmed by Palestinians on the ground, the documentary doesn’t just present statistics. It shows the human impact of occupation. It highlights the loss of cultural heritage. It demonstrates the resilience of people who refuse to be erased. The film raises pressing questions about international complicity and why certain narratives are amplified while others are suppressed.
For those who rely on corporate media for news, No Other Land provides an essential viewpoint. It offers an unfiltered perspective on one of the most pressing humanitarian crises of our time.
Wednesday 5th of March 2025
Nightmare Alley (2021) (Film4, 9pm)
Guillermo del Toro’s Nightmare Alley is a slow-burning, psychological noir that explores the thin line between ambition and self-destruction. The story follows Stanton Carlisle (Bradley Cooper), a drifter who learns the tricks of mentalism. He manipulates his way into high society. Eventually, his own arrogance leads to his downfall.
Unlike traditional noir films, Nightmare Alley presents its protagonist as both the conman and the mark. Stanton believes he can outwit everyone. In reality, he is simply another player in a system that devours those who reach too far. His journey is a cautionary tale about power and deception. It illustrates the inevitable downfall of those who believe they can cheat fate.
The film’s haunting visuals and chilling performances make it a gripping watch. However, its deeper message is more unsettling. Society itself is built on cons. Those at the top are simply the ones who have mastered the game for longer than others.
A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story (ITV1, 9pm)
Ruth Ellis was the last woman to be hanged in Britain. Her case remains one of the most controversial in legal history. This documentary examines her trial and execution. It questions whether justice was truly served. It also questions if Ellis was a victim of a system. The legal system refused to acknowledge domestic abuse as a mitigating factor.
The film provides context on how gender, class, and outdated legal standards shaped her fate. Now, discussions on coercive control and domestic violence have evolved. In this context, Ellis’ case feels even more tragic. She was punished not just for a crime, but for daring to defy societal expectations.
By revisiting Ellis’ story, this documentary forces us to ask how much the justice system has really changed. It also questions whether the law still fails those who need it most.
Seeking Satoshi: The Mystery Bitcoin Creator (two of two) (C4, 10pm)
The second episode of Seeking Satoshi: The Mystery Bitcoin Creator (C4, 10pm) delves deeper into the enigma surrounding Bitcoin’s origins. It explores the conspiracy theories and controversies that have emerged over the years. Journalist Gabriel Gatehouse continues his investigation. He uncovers new leads and encounters warnings from veteran hackers. They suggest that the truth about Satoshi Nakamoto might be too dangerous to pursue.
This episode broadens the scope of the mystery. It examines whether Bitcoin was the work of a lone genius or a collective effort. It even entertains the possibility of government involvement. It also highlights the darker side of Bitcoin’s legacy. This includes its use in dark web markets. It also involves its role in financial speculation. These elements raise critical questions. Does Bitcoin still represent the ideals of freedom and decentralization? Or has it become another tool for exploitation and inequality?
With its mix of investigative journalism and philosophical inquiry, the episode challenges viewers. It encourages consideration of the broader implications of Bitcoin’s creation. The episode also examines its impact on the world. It’s a gripping continuation of the series. It blends intrigue with a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between technology, power, and human ambition.
Thursday 6th of March 2025
The Wicked Lady (1945) (Talking Pictures, 10.50am)
A rebellious and provocative film for its time, The Wicked Lady tells the story of a noblewoman. She defies societal norms by leading a double life as a highway robber. Margaret Lockwood’s performance is electric, turning the character into an anti-hero who refuses to accept the constraints imposed on women.
The film explores morality. It makes audiences sympathise with a thief. The film questions who truly has the right to wealth and power. Although made in the 1940s, its themes of female independence and resistance against rigid social expectations remain strikingly relevant.
Beneath the costume drama, The Wicked Lady is a sharp critique of gender roles and the hypocrisy of aristocratic society. A daring and subversive classic.
The Undercover Police Scandal: Love And Lies Exposed (one of three) (ITV1, 9pm)
The first episode of The Undercover Police Scandal: Love and Lies Exposed (ITV1, 9pm) unveils a deeply unsettling narrative. The story is full of deception and betrayal. It focuses on the lives of individuals who were profoundly affected by covert operations. Through intimate interviews and detailed accounts, the documentary exposes the hidden practices of a secretive unit. It reveals the far-reaching consequences of their actions on personal lives. It also shows the impact on trust.
This episode highlights the intricate dynamics of power and control, as it explores how relationships were manipulated under false pretenses. The stories of those who were deceived are both harrowing and courageous. They recount their journeys of uncovering the truth. They also seek accountability. The documentary does not shy away from exposing the emotional toll. It reveals the long-lasting scars left by these actions. It offers a poignant look at the resilience of those who refused to stay silent.
The episode weaves together personal testimonies and investigative findings. It challenges viewers to think about the boundaries of authority. It also explores the ethical dilemmas that arise when those boundaries are crossed. It’s a compelling start to a series. The series promises to delve even deeper into the complexities of these hidden operations. It will also explore their impact on society.
Friday 7th of March 2025
High Noon (1952) (GREAT!action, 8pm)
On the surface, High Noon is a classic Western about a lone sheriff preparing for a gunfight. But beneath the action, it is a scathing critique of cowardice and conformity. The town’s people, rather than standing against injustice, find excuses to avoid responsibility.
Seen as an allegory for the McCarthy-era witch hunts, High Noon is not focused on heroism. Instead, it highlights the failures of those who choose silence over resistance. It remains a powerful reminder of how easily injustice flourishes when people turn a blind eye.
Event Horizon (1997) (Film4, 11.15pm)
Event Horizon, a sci-fi horror film, delves deeply into the multidimensional consequences of unchecked ambition. Socially, it examines the human drive to explore and dominate the unknown. This reflects the age-old pursuit of progress. Often, progress comes at the expense of ethics and humanity. Politically, it mirrors the Cold War-era space race. During this time, nations pushed the boundaries of space exploration in a quest for supremacy. This reflects the real-world tension and competition between superpowers.
Economically, the film hints at the massive investments required for such space missions. It also touches on the resource allocations necessary. The film questions whether the potential rewards are worth the risks. This notion is particularly resonant in today’s context of space commercialization, where private corporations race to exploit extraterrestrial resources.
Psychologically, Event Horizon explores the terror of the unknown. It delves into the profound impact of isolation and existential dread on the human psyche. The spaceship’s return is now a harbinger of horror. It symbolizes the unforeseen and often catastrophic consequences of pushing beyond human limits. These occur without considering the mental and emotional toll on those involved.
Event Horizon serves as a chilling reminder. Humanity might pay a price for its relentless quest to conquer the cosmos.
Streaming Choices
Walter Presents: The Mantis (All six episodes on Channel 4 streaming from Friday 7th of March 2025)
When a copycat killer strikes in France, police turn to the original murderer for help. A gripping crime drama that exposes corruption, power struggles, and moral compromises.
The First Emperor Of China (Available from Thursday 6th of March on History Hit)
A historical deep dive into how one man unified a nation, but at immense human cost.
The Real Ruth Ellis (Available from Wednesday 5th of March 2025 on ITVX)
A fresh look at Britain’s most infamous execution case, exploring new evidence. Worth watching alongside the new drama about her this week, A Cruel Love.
Picture credits
Elkie Brooks At The BBC
Elkie: Sight And Sound In Concert
Elkie Brooks In Concert 1987
By kitmasterbloke – https://www.flickr.com/photos/kitmasterbloke/49233655996/, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=97277764
Prey (2022)
By http://www.impawards.com/2022/posters/prey_ver4_xxlg.jpg, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=70800783
Sicario (2015)
May be found at the following website: IMP Awards, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=46727168
Suffragette (2015)
The poster art can or could be obtained from the distributor., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=47657815
Mark Kermode’s Oscar Winners
By Julie Edwards – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=132623664
Nick Cave: This Much I Know To Be True
By Raph_PH – https://www.flickr.com/photos/raph_ph/51427635149/, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=109766405
Glory (1989)
By TriStar Pictures – Impawards, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=13532520
The Last Duel (2021)
By http://www.impawards.com/2021/last_duel_ver6.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=68281500
Israel And The Palestinians (two of three)
Illustration from KollectivFutur with permission
Oscars Highlights
By Oscars: AMPAS Brand Guide, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=77913754
The Death Of Stalin (2017)
By The poster art can or could be obtained from the distributor., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=54810778
Seeking Satoshi: The Mystery Bitcoin Creator (one of two)
By Grayliptrot – This file was derived from: Bitcoin logo.svg, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=30202095
Coriolanus (2011)
By IMPAwards, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=26505292
No Other Land (2024)
By Berlinale, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=76180863
Nightmare Alley (2021)
By http://www.impawards.com/2021/nightmare_alley_ver2.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=68734063
A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story
Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=29759349
The Wicked Lady (1945)
High Noon (1952)
By “Copyright 1952 – United Artists Corporation.” – Scan via Heritage Auctions., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=85708724
Event Horizon (1997)
By Paramount Pictures – impawards, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=10657985
Leave a Reply