Archive for Culture Vulture

Culture Vulture: Week of 31st May to 6th June 2025

May 30, 2025 at 2:55 pm · Filed under Culture Vulture, Film & DVD Reviews ·Tagged , , ,

4,165 words, 22 minutes read time.

Selections and commentary by Pat Harrington – Original Music in our video by Tim Bragg

As we step into June, Pride Month brings a vibrant array of programming that celebrates LGBTQ+ stories and voices. This week’s selections offer a rich tapestry of narratives—from timeless classics to contemporary explorations of identity. Notably, Maurice, What It Feels Like For A Girl, and National Anthem stand out for their poignant portrayals of LGBT+ experiences. Whether you’re seeking historical depth, emotional resonance, or modern reflections, this week’s lineup promises to engage and inspire.

Saturday, 31st May 2025

The Dirty Dozen (1967): 5Action at 9:00 PM
A brutal and bombastic World War II epic, The Dirty Dozen throws together a ragtag band of military prisoners—each with a checkered past and little left to lose—for a daring, near-suicidal mission deep behind enemy lines. Under the command of the hard-nosed Major Reisman, played with grizzled brilliance by Lee Marvin, these men are forged into an unorthodox fighting unit, their fate hinging on their ability to function as a lethal strike force rather than a group of condemned criminals.

Fueled by raw masculinity and unapologetic toughness, the film thrives on action, camaraderie, and moments of biting cynicism that challenge the rigid hierarchy of military command. While it carries the swagger of a classic 1960s war film—packed with explosions, bravado, and defiant anti-authoritarian streaks—it subtly weaves in a deeper commentary about the expendability of the working-class soldier, forced into impossible conditions by the powers that be.

It is both a high-octane spectacle and a sharp indictment of war’s cruel pragmatism—a blend of testosterone-driven thrills and a harsh look at who bears the true cost of conflict. With an unforgettable ensemble cast and a relentless pace, The Dirty Dozen stands as a war film that refuses to simply glorify combat, instead reveling in its brutal contradictions.

The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008): Channel 4 at 11:20 PM
This modern remake of the 1951 sci-fi classic trades the original’s quiet, simmering tension for a more urgent, effects-driven spectacle, updating its central theme to reflect contemporary anxieties. Instead of Cold War paranoia, humanity’s looming destruction now stems from environmental collapse, reframing the narrative as a cautionary tale about our self-destructive tendencies.

Keanu Reeves brings his signature stillness to the role of Klaatu, the enigmatic alien sent to assess Earth’s fate. His performance suits the character’s detached, otherworldly nature, reinforcing the film’s eerie sense of judgment. However, the film’s reliance on CG-heavy visuals and grand destruction sequences occasionally undermines its thematic weight, making the message feel less intimate and more distant.

Despite its aesthetic choices, the film still poses profound questions: Can civilization truly reform? Or has humanity passed the point of redemption? While it may lack the original’s restrained, methodical storytelling, it remains a relevant exploration of accountability—offering a stark mirror to our real-world environmental crisis.

Sunday, 1st June 2025

Spartacus (1960): BBC Two at 1:00 PM
Stanley Kubrick’s Spartacus is more than just a grand historical epic—it’s a film deeply rooted in themes of resistance, dignity, and sacrifice, embodying the struggle of the oppressed against an empire built on cruelty. At its heart is Kirk Douglas, delivering one of his most defining performances as the titular slave-turned-revolutionary, whose defiance against Rome becomes a powerful symbol of rebellion. The film’s operatic scale, visceral battle sequences, and emotionally charged moments elevate it beyond mere spectacle, making it a muscular, politically conscious piece of cinema that still resonates today.

Yet, Spartacus carries an even deeper significance beyond its narrative. The screenplay was penned by Dalton Trumbo, a writer who had been blacklisted during the McCarthy-era Hollywood purges. Trumbo was one of the Hollywood Ten, a group of screenwriters and directors who refused to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) in 1947, when the U.S. government was aggressively targeting individuals suspected of Communist affiliations. His refusal to name names led to his imprisonment and exile from the industry, forcing him to write under pseudonyms or through “front” writers who took credit for his work.

Despite being blacklisted, Trumbo continued to craft brilliant screenplays, even winning two Academy Awards in secret—one for Roman Holiday (1953), credited to a front writer, and another for The Brave One (1956), awarded to a pseudonym he used. His exile from Hollywood lasted over a decade, until Kirk Douglas took a stand. In 1960, Douglas publicly credited Trumbo as the screenwriter of Spartacus, effectively breaking the blacklist and paving the way for other blacklisted artists to return to the industry. That same year, director Otto Preminger also credited Trumbo for Exodus, further dismantling the oppressive system that had silenced so many voices.

Trumbo’s official recognition came much later—his name was finally restored to Roman Holiday in 2011, decades after his death. His story remains a testament to the resilience of artists in the face of political persecution, and Spartacus stands as both a cinematic triumph and a symbol of defiance, mirroring Trumbo’s own battle against injustice.

Inside Out (2015): BBC One at 3:30 PM
Pixar’s Inside Out is a thoughtful look at the emotional life of a young girl facing change. It imagines feelings like Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger, and Disgust as characters, each playing a role in how she processes the world.

The film is as much about growing up as it is about the way we understand our own emotions. Riley’s mind is filled with memories and personality shaped by these feelings, but as she moves to a new city, things start to shift. Sadness, often sidelined, becomes more important—showing that difficult emotions aren’t something to avoid but are essential to making sense of life.

It’s a clever and visually inventive way of explaining how emotions interact. Concepts like core memories, suppressed thoughts, and the messy, unpredictable nature of change feel real, even as they’re presented in bright, colorful animation. There’s an honesty to it that resonates beyond childhood, making it as meaningful to adults as it is to younger audiences.

Rather than pushing a simple message about happiness, Inside Out suggests that real emotional growth comes from understanding that all feelings have value. It’s a film that treats its audience with intelligence, wrapping a complex idea in an accessible, engaging story.

Monday, 2nd June 2025

Rosaline (2022): Channel 4 at 1:05 AM
A cheeky revisionist take on Romeo and Juliet, Rosaline centres the character usually forgotten—the woman Romeo was infatuated with before Juliet. Kaitlyn Dever brings modern sensibility and wit, giving a satirical spin to Shakespearean romance. It’s slight, but its feminist framing and breezy pace make it a fun midnight watch.

Looper (2012): Legend at 9:00 PM
Rian Johnson’s Looper is more than just a clever time-travel puzzle—it’s a film that wrestles with destiny, sacrifice, and the inescapable cycles of violence. Set in a near-future where criminal organizations use time travel to dispose of targets, it follows Joe, a hired gun known as a “looper,” who eliminates people sent back from the future. But when his older self is sent back for execution, Joe is forced into a desperate battle against his own fate.

The film plays with the idea of free will versus inevitability, questioning whether people can truly change or if they are doomed to repeat the same mistakes. Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Bruce Willis deliver compelling performances as two versions of the same man—one trying to preserve his future, the other trying to rewrite it. Their conflict is more than just physical; it’s a philosophical struggle over whether violence can ever truly end or if it simply perpetuates itself.

Beyond its intricate plotting, Looper is a thoughtful exploration of morality and consequence, using time travel as a lens to examine personal responsibility. The film’s gritty, lived-in world and restrained use of sci-fi elements keep the focus on character and choice rather than spectacle. It’s a film that rewards repeat viewings with new layers of meaning.

On Chesil Beach (2017): BBC Two at 11:00 PM
Adapted from Ian McEwan’s novella, On Chesil Beach is a delicate, quietly devastating exploration of inexperience, repression, and the weight of social expectation. Set in 1962, on the cusp of the sexual revolution, it follows a newlywed couple, Florence and Edward, as they navigate the unspoken tensions of their wedding night. What should be a moment of intimacy instead becomes a painful unraveling, shaped by their vastly different backgrounds and the era’s rigid attitudes toward sex and emotional expression.

Saoirse Ronan delivers a deeply nuanced performance as Florence, a young woman trapped between duty and personal discomfort, struggling to articulate her needs in a world that discourages such honesty. Opposite her, Billy Howle’s Edward embodies frustration and longing, making their dynamic all the more heartbreaking. Their inability to communicate—both with each other and within the constraints of their time—turns a single evening into a defining moment that alters the course of their lives.

The film’s restrained style mirrors its themes, using minimalism and quiet tension to underscore the emotional weight of each interaction. The windswept isolation of Chesil Beach itself becomes a metaphor for their relationship—beautiful yet unforgiving, shaped by forces beyond their control. Beneath its period setting, On Chesil Beach speaks to universal fears of vulnerability, misunderstanding, and the irreversible consequences of words left unsaid.

Tuesday, 3rd June 2025

What It Feels Like For A Girl – BBC Three at 9:00 PM (All episodes available on iPlayer)

A striking new drama inspired by Paris Lees’ acclaimed memoir, What It Feels Like For A Girl is a fearless exploration of girlhood, identity, and resilience in contemporary Britain. Set at the turn of the millennium, the series follows Byron, a teenager desperate to escape the confines of their small working-class town, where rigid expectations and social pressures weigh heavily.

Each episode draws from real testimony, weaving together deeply personal experiences with a raw, poetc storytelling style. The series doesn’t shy away from difficult truths—it confronts gender identity, class, sexuality, and the search for belonging with honesty and urgency. Byron’s journey leads them into the chaotic, neon-lit world of Nottingham’s club scene, where they find a chosen family among the Fallen Divas, a group of misfits living on the fringes of society.

With its anarchic energy, sharp wit, and emotional depth, What It Feels Like For A Girl challenges social norms while exposing vulnerability in a way that feels both intimate and universal. It’s essential viewing for anyone interested in how young women—and those who exist outside traditional gender expectations—navigate the complexities of identity, freedom, and survival in today’s world.

Matt Baker’s British Isles (Episode 1 of 4) – More4 at 9:00 PM

Matt Baker’s latest series is a heartfelt tribute to the people and places that quietly keep Britain running. Rather than chasing sensational headlines or dramatic conflicts, the show focuses on local heroes and unsung rural stories, offering a window into communities that often go unnoticed.

Baker’s approach is gentle but deeply engaging, allowing the stories to unfold naturally. Whether it’s farmers preserving traditional methods, volunteers keeping historic landmarks alive, or individuals making a difference in their towns, the series highlights the quiet dignity of everyday life. It’s a reminder that resilience, kindness, and dedication exist in the fabric of British society, even if they rarely make the front pages.

Visually, the series captures the beauty of the British landscape, from rolling hills to rugged coastlines, reinforcing the deep connection between people and place. Baker’s own background—growing up on a farm and later championing rural life through his television career—adds authenticity to his storytelling. His enthusiasm for craftsmanship, heritage, and community spirit shines through, making the series feel personal rather than purely observational.

At a time when news cycles are relentless and often overwhelming, Matt Baker’s British Isles offers a comforting antidote—a chance to slow down, appreciate the small but significant contributions of ordinary people, and reconnect with the quieter rhythms of life.

Who Do You Think You Are? (Will Young): BBC One at 9:00 PM
Pop star and actor Will Young traces his ancestry in an episode that delves into both privilege and perseverance. As always with this series, its real magic lies in the personal impact of historical discovery—and the way it reshapes one’s view of self and nation.

Storyville: The Jackal Speaks: BBC Four at 10:00 PM
A rare and unsettling portrait of Ilich Ramírez Sánchez, better known as Carlos the Jackal, one of the most infamous international terrorists and arms dealers of the 20th century. From the confines of a French high-security prison, where he is serving three life sentences, Carlos speaks openly about his past, his ideology, and the violent operations that made him a feared figure across Europe and the Middle East.

The documentary traces his journey from childhood in Venezuela to his radicalisation, his involvement in high-profile assassinations, bombings, and hostage crises, and his connections to figures like Colonel Gaddafi and Osama Bin Laden. For decades, Carlos was a shadowy presence in global politics, orchestrating attacks that shaped the era’s geopolitical tensions. Now, for the first time, he tells his story in his own words—unfiltered, unapologetic, and deeply revealing.

With unprecedented access, The Jackal Speaks offers a disturbing insight into the mind of a man who operated at the heart of international terror networks. It’s a documentary that doesn’t just recount history—it forces viewers to confront the motivations and consequences of political violence.

Maurice (1987): Film4 at 11:05 PM
James Ivory’s adaptation of E.M. Forster’s posthumously published novel is a landmark in LGBTQ+ cinema. Set in early 20th-century England, the film follows the emotional awakening and inner conflict of Maurice Hall, a young man grappling with his sexuality in a repressive society. With understated elegance, the film explores love, class, and the societal expectations that push people into unhappy compromises.

Wilby and Grant deliver performances that are as nuanced as they are emotionally authentic. Their chemistry develops slowly and convincingly, making Maurice’s journey from confusion and denial to self-acceptance all the more affecting. The film doesn’t sensationalise, opting instead for a subdued, melancholic tone that allows space for reflection.

Ivory’s direction and Richard Robbins’s score wrap the film in a gentleness that masks a quietly revolutionary spirit. Released at a time when queer cinema was still emerging from the margins, Maurice gave visibility and dignity to a love story usually hidden from view. Its historical setting adds poignancy, reminding us of what earlier generations risked simply to love.

The cinematography also deserves praise. The English countryside is rendered with painterly beauty, offering both a contrast to the strictness of Edwardian morals and a backdrop for Maurice’s growing sense of inner freedom. The physical and emotional landscapes are tightly bound in this production, making it a deeply immersive experience.

More than 35 years on, Maurice remains as vital and stirring as ever. It reminds us how far society has come, but also how fragile those gains can be. A perfect watch for Pride Month.

Wednesday, 4th June 2025

All the Money in the World (2017): Great Movies at 9:00 PM
Ridley Scott’s All the Money in the World is a tense, unsettling look at power, greed, and the cold logic of wealth. Based on the real-life kidnapping of John Paul Getty III, the film follows the desperate attempts of his mother, Gail Harris, to secure his release—only to be met with indifference from his billionaire grandfather, J. Paul Getty, who refuses to pay the ransom.

Michelle Williams delivers a fierce, emotionally charged performance as Gail, a woman fighting not just against the kidnappers but against a system where money matters more than human life. Christopher Plummer plays Getty with chilling detachment, portraying him as a man so consumed by his fortune that he sees his grandson’s suffering as a financial inconvenience rather than a personal tragedy.

Plummer wasn’t the original choice for the role. Kevin Spacey was initially cast as Getty, but after allegations against him surfaced, Scott made the bold decision to replace him entirely, reshooting all of Spacey’s scenes in just nine days. It was an unprecedented move, adding millions to the budget, but it ensured the film’s release wasn’t overshadowed by controversy.

It would have been interesting to see Spacey’s take on the character—his ability to play morally ambiguous figures is well-documented, and his version of Getty might have leaned even further into the character’s ruthless pragmatism. But Plummer brings a different kind of menace—less theatrical, more understated—which arguably makes Getty’s indifference even more chilling.

Beyond the performances, All the Money in the World isn’t just about a crime—it’s about the corrosive nature of extreme wealth, the way power isolates, and the brutal reality that, in some circles, money is valued more than people. It’s a gripping, well-crafted thriller that lingers long after the credits roll.

National Anthem (2023): Film4 at 11:20 PM
National Anthem is a contemporary indie that explores identity, LGBT+ experiences, and self-discovery against the backdrop of the American Midwest. It challenges traditional masculinity, offering a tender counter-narrative to the usual road trip tropes—one that replaces escape with belonging, and isolation with community.

At the heart of the story is Dylan, a young labourer whose life is defined by routine and responsibility. He stumbles into a world of LGBT+ rodeo performers, a space where self-expression isn’t punished but celebrated. What begins as curiosity soon becomes something deeper—a reckoning with his own identity, shaped by the people he meets and the freedom they embody. The film captures his vulnerability without pity, allowing his quiet transformation to unfold naturally, free from cliché or forced sentimentality.

Visually, National Anthem is sun-drenched and intimate, using the vastness of the American landscape to mirror Dylan’s emotional growth. The open skies and rolling plains contrast with the internal shifts happening within him, reinforcing the idea that identity is something expansive, not confined. The cinematography lingers on moments of quiet connection—glances, gestures, the unspoken understanding between people who have carved out a space for themselves in a world that often refuses to see them.

The supporting cast is just as vital to the film’s emotional weight. Each character is vividly drawn, offering both contrast and community to Dylan’s introspection. Their world is one of celebration and survival, shaped by past traumas but also by the joy of finding a chosen family. The film doesn’t romanticize their struggles, but it does honour their resilience, showing how identity is built not just through hardship, but through love, laughter, and the simple act of being seen.

By the time the film reaches its final moments, it doesn’t rely on grand gestures or dramatic revelations. Instead, it delivers a quiet crescendo, an earned moment of emotional truth that lingers long after the credits roll. National Anthem isn’t just about sexuality—it’s about the spaces people create to exist fully, and the courage it takes to step into them.

Thursday, 5th June 2025

Tolkien (2019): Film4 at 6:50 PM
Tolkien is a biographical drama that delves into the formative years of J.R.R. Tolkien, tracing the experiences that shaped his extraordinary imagination. Rather than focusing on his later literary achievements, the film explores his childhood, friendships, love, and the horrors of World War I, showing how each of these elements contributed to the creation of Middle-earth.

At the heart of the story is Tolkien’s deep bond with the Tea Club and Barrovian Society (TCBS), a group of like-minded school friends who shared a passion for art, literature, and ideas. Their camaraderie and intellectual exchanges became a foundation for Tolkien’s storytelling, reinforcing themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and sacrifice—ideas that would later define The Lord of the Rings. His relationship with Edith Bratt, the woman who would become his wife, is also central to the film, portraying her as both a muse and a grounding force in his life.

The film doesn’t shy away from the brutality of World War I, depicting Tolkien’s time in the trenches as a defining period that shaped his understanding of heroism, loss, and the darkness of war. The battle sequences are interwoven with surreal, dreamlike imagery that hints at the creatures and landscapes he would later bring to life in his writing. While the film doesn’t explicitly connect every moment to his later works, it subtly suggests how his experiences informed the mythology of Middle-earth.

Nicholas Hoult delivers a restrained, sympathetic performance, capturing Tolkien’s quiet intensity and deep emotional world. His portrayal emphasizes the personal struggles behind the legend—the grief of losing loved ones, the uncertainty of youth, and the slow, determined process of finding his voice as a writer.

While Tolkien doesn’t fully capture the vast scale of his literary vision, it offers a moving, intimate glimpse into the man behind the legend. It’s a film about creativity, resilience, and the way life’s experiences—both joyful and painful—can shape the stories we tell.

The Siege of Leningrad: PBS America at 8:35 PM

One of the most harrowing chapters of World War II, the Siege of Leningrad lasted 872 days, trapping millions of civilians in a city cut off from supplies, surrounded by German forces, and subjected to relentless bombardment. This documentary offers a sobering but essential account of the blockade, drawing on survivor testimony and rare archival footage to bring the unimaginable suffering into sharp focus.

The film explores the human cost of war, detailing how starvation, disease, and extreme cold claimed over a million lives, while those who remained endured conditions that defied belief. Yet, amid the devastation, it also highlights the resilience and defiance of Leningrad’s people, who refused to surrender despite overwhelming odds.

Through historical analysis and firsthand accounts, the documentary examines the strategic failures and political decisions that prolonged the siege, as well as the eventual Soviet counteroffensive that broke the blockade in January 1944. It’s a deeply moving tribute to those who lived through one of history’s longest and most brutal sieges—a reminder of the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable hardship.

Friday, 6th June 2025

Joanna Lumley’s Danube (Episode 3 of 3): ITV1 at 9:00 PM
Lumley concludes her journey down the Danube with her trademark mix of humour, curiosity, and cultural insight. Her warmth brings out the best in the people she meets, while her reflections on European identity give this travelogue surprising depth.

Fatal Attraction (1987) – Great Movies at 9:00 PM

Few films have left as lasting an impact on popular culture as Fatal Attraction. Released in 1987, this psychological thriller became a phenomenon, sparking intense debate about infidelity, obsession, and gender dynamics. Glenn Close and Michael Douglas deliver powerhouse performances in a story that is equal parts cautionary tale and moral panic, tapping into deep-seated fears about relationships and betrayal.

Douglas plays Dan Gallagher, a successful New York attorney who has a seemingly perfect life—until a weekend affair with Alex Forrest (Close) turns into a nightmare. What begins as a fleeting indiscretion quickly spirals into psychological warfare, as Alex refuses to be discarded, her obsession escalating into stalking, manipulation, and violence. The film’s tension builds relentlessly, culminating in some of the most infamous moments in thriller history—including the now-iconic boiled rabbit scene, a chilling metaphor for Alex’s unraveling psyche.

Close’s portrayal of Alex remains one of the most complex and unsettling depictions of obsession in cinema. While the film initially frames her as a villain, her character is layered with vulnerability, desperation, and emotional instability, making her more than just a one-dimensional antagonist. Over the years, critics have revisited Fatal Attraction through a different lens, questioning whether Alex was a victim of misogynistic storytelling or a genuine warning about the dangers of unchecked obsession.

The film’s original ending was far more tragic—Alex was meant to die by suicide, reinforcing the psychological depth of her character. However, test audiences reacted negatively, leading to a reshoot that transformed the climax into a violent showdown, shifting the film’s tone from psychological drama to full-blown thriller.

Beyond its gripping narrative, Fatal Attraction helped define the erotic thriller boom of the late 80s and early 90s, paving the way for films like Basic Instinct and Single White Female. Its themes remain relevant, continuing to provoke discussion about gender roles, mental health, and the consequences of betrayal.

Unsettling but undeniably gripping, Fatal Attraction is a film that refuses to fade into obscurity—its legacy still felt in cinema and cultural discourse today.

And Finally… Streaming

Films

I’m Still Here – Premieres 31 May on Netflix & Amazon Prime
A Brazilian biographical drama set during the dictatorship of the 1970s, following Eunice Paiva as she struggles to survive in a regime that violently suppresses political dissent. A powerful exploration of resilience, personal sacrifice, and the brutal cost of standing up to tyranny.

Founders Days – Premieres 2 June on Netflix & Amazon Prime
A satirical horror with sharp political undertones. Set during a mayoral election in a small town, paranoia escalates as a masked killer terrorises the community. A pointed take on American democracy and mob mentality wrapped in genre thrills.

Red, White & Royal Blue – Available from 3 June on Amazon Prime
A romantic drama about image, power, and forbidden love, this film sees the son of the U.S. President fall for a British prince. As they navigate their relationship in the public eye, the film tackles modern masculinity and queer identity with warmth and sincerity.

Series

The Four Seasons – Premieres 1 June on Netflix (8 episodes)
A limited series remake of the 1981 film, this drama follows three affluent couples over the course of a year. Touching on privilege, personal reinvention, and class tension, it offers intimate insights into friendship under pressure.

Poker Face (Season 2) – Premieres 31 May on Peacock (12 episodes)
The hit mystery series returns with more biting commentary. Natasha Lyonne leads again as a lie-detecting drifter uncovering small-town secrets and systemic corruption, in a sharply written mix of retro crime and modern politics.

Duster – Premieres 1 June on Max (8 episodes)
Set in the gritty American Southwest of the 1970s, this tense crime drama dives into organised crime, corrupt lawmen, and those caught in between. Atmospheric, character-driven, and steeped in political subtext.

Stay tuned, stay sharp, and stream smart.

Picture Credits

The Dirty Dozen
By http://www.movieposter.com, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=8363581
The Day the Earth Stood Still
The cover art can or could be obtained from Collider.com or 20th Century Fox., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=20122070
Spartacus
By Reynold Brown – MoviePoster, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=25030150
Inside Out
By Reynold Brown – MoviePoster, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=25030150
Rosaline
By Reynold Brown – MoviePoster, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=25030150
Looper
May be found at the following website: http://www.impawards.com/2012/looper_ver5.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37152070
On Chesil Beach
The poster art can or could be obtained from the distributor., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=55465108
What It Feels Like For A Girl
Matt Baker’s British Isles
By William Hook from Stafford, United Kingdom – Crufts – BBC Studio (28), CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3776227
Who Do You Think You Are? (Will Young)
Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=9753357
Storyville: The Jackal Speaks
By Anonymous – NBCNews.com, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=130451174
Maurice
All the Money in the World
By The poster art can or could be obtained from the distributor., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=55238236
National Anthem
By Variance Films – imdb, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=76806027
Tolkien
By Fox Searchlight – [1], Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=60101851
The Siege of Leningrad
By Ebert Georg – https://audiovis.nac.gov.pl/obraz/2548/, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=79566819
Joanna Lumley’s Danube
By Land Rover MENA – Land Rover ‘Defender 2,000,000’ Sells for Record £400,000 at Bonhams Charity Auction, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=97190461
Fatal Attraction
The poster art can or could be obtained from Paramount Pictures., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=57579268

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Culture Vulture 24th to the 30th of May 2025

May 24, 2025 at 7:45 am · Filed under Culture Vulture, Film & DVD Reviews, TV Shows ·Tagged , , , , ,

Curated by Pat Harrington • Original music on our video version by Tim Bragg

This week, we step into the refined yet radical world of Jane Austen. Her work, far from being simply romantic escapism, offers sharp observations of society and gender politics. Austen’s legacy looms large over our listings, with three outstanding productions: Jane Austen: Rise of a Genius, Joe Wright’s Pride and Prejudice, and a thoughtful BBC Four adaptation of Sense and Sensibility. These aren’t just stories about courtship—they’re critiques of class, power, and human frailty. Through their wit and restraint, they give voice to social tensions that still resonate.

🌟 Highlights

  • Jane Austen: Rise of a Genius: BBC Two, Monday, 9:00 PM
  • Pride and Prejudice (2005): BBC Two, Monday, 10:00 PM
  • Sense and Sensibility: BBC Four, Wednesday, from 10:00 PM

📅 Saturday, 24th May

Mon Oncle (1958) – Talking Pictures, 3:00 PM
Jacques Tati’s Mon Oncle is a masterclass in visual storytelling. Monsieur Hulot, with his pipe and awkward gait, finds himself adrift in a hyper-modern house full of absurd gadgets. The film gently mocks the soullessness of consumerism while celebrating the warmth of traditional life.
What makes Tati’s work so enduring is his patience. Scenes unfold with the rhythm of real life—no quick cuts, no explanatory dialogue. He trusts the audience to find humour in the mundane, and that trust pays off.
Though set in a comedic register, the critique of post-war modernisation is clear. The contrast between Hulot’s charmingly disordered neighbourhood and the antiseptic home of his sister’s family is striking. There’s affection here, but also a wistful note—what do we lose in the march of progress?

Doctor Who – Wishworld – BBC One, 6:15 PM
In this week’s Doctor Who, the crew are thrown into a surreal world shaped entirely by wishes. At first enchanting, the realm soon reveals its darker underbelly, as unchecked desires bring unintended consequences.
This episode sees the Doctor confronting not just external threats but their own doubts. The writing strikes a fine balance between whimsy and warning, reflecting on the difference between dreams and delusions.
Russell T Davies uses this episode to nudge viewers gently toward introspection. What do our wishes reveal about us? And what happens if they come true without constraint? There are no easy answers, only intriguing questions.

Apocalypse Stalin – PBS America, 7:25 PM
Uncompromising and chilling, this three-part documentary traces the life of one of history’s most ruthless leaders. This episode focuses on how Stalin consolidated power through propaganda, fear, and purges.
The archival footage is disturbing in its familiarity, echoing authoritarian patterns that still linger in the world. By humanising the victims and documenting the regime’s machinery, the programme honours the past while warning the present.
A stark and necessary viewing experience.

Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story – BBC Two, 9:00 PM
This affectionate yet honest portrait of Liza Minnelli balances showbiz dazzle with raw insight. The documentary traces her life from Hollywood royalty to queer icon, capturing the triumphs and trials with sensitivity.
Rare footage and intimate interviews show a performer who burned brightly, and sometimes too close to the flame. But it’s never mawkish. Liza is seen here as complex, brave, and utterly compelling.
A tribute worthy of its subject—and essential for anyone interested in the intersections of fame, resilience, and identity.

The Running Man (1988) – Channel 4, 11:10 PM
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s The Running Man might seem like pure 80s action at first glance—muscular heroes, explosions, and a neon-drenched aesthetic—but beneath its bombastic surface lies a darkly prescient satire of media manipulation, authoritarianism, and the spectacle of violence as entertainment.

Set in a dystopian future where the government controls the masses through rigged reality TV, the film critiques a system where the truth is malleable, dissent is silenced, and the public is pacified with bloodsport. Ben Richards, falsely accused of mass murder, becomes a pawn in this brutal game—a gladiator forced to battle for survival while the audience cheers, unaware they are complicit in their own oppression.

The parallels to modern media are striking. The way the Running Man show twists reality, framing Richards as a villain, echoes the distortion of truth in our own era of misinformation and curated narratives. Whether through government propaganda, biased news outlets, or social media echo chambers, the film warns of a world where facts can be shaped to suit the ruling powers.

Then there’s the critique of commercialised violence. The Running Man shows a society addicted to spectacle—where suffering is entertainment and morality is secondary to ratings. It’s not far removed from real-world reality TV, where personal humiliation, cruelty, and manufactured drama keep audiences engaged. The difference? In the film’s universe, losing means death.

Despite its exaggerated, campy tone, The Running Man remains eerily relevant. It highlights the dangers of state-controlled narratives, unchecked corporate power, and public apathy in the face of exploitation. And like all great dystopian stories, it asks a chilling question: how far are we, really, from this future?

📅 Sunday, 25th May

From Russia with Love (1963) – ITV1, 4:20 PM
Bond’s second cinematic outing is a tightly coiled Cold War espionage tale. There’s less bombast, more brains—spycraft over spectacle. Sean Connery’s Bond is suave, cynical, and at his most lethal.
The Istanbul setting is rich and moody, full of alleyways and shadows. The train sequence is a classic, building tension with every turn. Lotte Lenya’s Rosa Klebb is unforgettable—a villain equal to Bond in menace and cunning.
A refined Bond adventure with elegance, grit, and real stakes.

3,000 Years of Longing (2022) – Channel 4, 10:55 PM
A lonely narratologist (Tilda Swinton) meets a Djinn (Idris Elba) in a Turkish hotel and must decide whether to use three wishes. What follows is a lavish, layered meditation on storytelling, loneliness, and desire.
George Miller’s film isn’t in a rush. It draws you into its spell with vivid tales, philosophical musings, and sumptuous imagery. The fables the Djinn recounts are touching and strange, filled with longing and regret.
A film that speaks softly but with great depth—a rare cinematic gem that rewards attention and reflection.

📅 Monday, 26th May

Apocalypse Stalin – PBS America, 7:25 PM
Part two of this searing series examines the regime’s descent into paranoia and purging. As Stalin reshapes Soviet society into a monolith of fear, personal stories of loss and defiance emerge.
It’s heavy, yes, but necessary. The programme never lets statistics eclipse individuals. Each victim has a name, a face, a context.
An unflinching examination of how ideology corrodes and consumes. Watch with care.

Jane Austen: Rise of a Genius – BBC Two, 9:00 PM
This documentary upends the tea-and-bonnets stereotype. Austen is revealed as a social critic, a feminist voice in corseted disguise. Her sharpness is celebrated, not softened.
Dramatisations are effective but never overused. Experts speak to Austen’s literary courage—writing women as thinkers, challengers, creators.
An absorbing, nuanced tribute that refreshes and reclaims Austen’s radical legacy.

Pride and Prejudice (2005) BBC2 10pm

Joe Wright’s Pride and Prejudice (2005) breathes new life into Austen’s classic, capturing both its sweeping romance and sharp social critique. Keira Knightley’s Elizabeth Bennet is fiery and independent, challenging the rigid expectations placed upon women in Regency England. Matthew Macfadyen’s Darcy, with his brooding intensity and hesitant vulnerability, embodies the struggle between personal pride and societal pressure.

Beyond the love story, the film highlights the suffocating constraints of class and gender. Elizabeth’s refusal to marry for security rather than love is a radical act in a world where women’s futures are dictated by wealth and status. Charlotte Lucas’s pragmatic decision to wed the insufferable Mr. Collins serves as a stark contrast—an unsettling reminder of the limited choices available to women. The Bennet family’s precarious financial situation underscores the brutal reality of inheritance laws that left daughters dependent on advantageous marriages.

The cinematography amplifies these themes, with sweeping shots of grand estates juxtaposed against the modest Bennet home, reinforcing the divide between privilege and struggle. The candlelit interiors and misty landscapes evoke a sense of longing—not just romantic, but for freedom, dignity, and self-determination.

Wright’s adaptation doesn’t just retell Austen’s story; it makes it resonate anew. The tension between tradition and change, duty and desire, remains as relevant today as it was in Austen’s time. This is a Pride and Prejudice that pulses with life, reminding us that love is not just about attraction, but about defiance, choice, and the courage to demand more.

📅 Tuesday, 27th May

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966) – ITV4, 9:00 PM
Sergio Leone’s spaghetti western is a slow-burn masterpiece of cinema, rich in tension and iconic in style. Clint Eastwood, Eli Wallach, and Lee Van Cleef form an uneasy triangle of greed, pragmatism, and ruthlessness as they hunt for a cache of hidden gold during the chaos of the American Civil War.

Storyville: White Man Walking is a deeply unsettling yet necessary documentary that examines the journey of a man who once embraced white supremacist ideology but later rejected it, dedicating his life to de-radicalisation. The film follows Rob Bliss, a white filmmaker who embarks on a 1,500-mile walk through America’s southern states wearing a Black Lives Matter T-shirt, confronting hostility, armed Trump supporters, and moments of unexpected connection.

This documentary is not just about one man’s personal reckoning—it’s about the broader social and political forces that shape radicalisation and the difficulty of breaking free from them. It explores the deep racial and ideological divide in America, asking why advocating for Black lives provokes such visceral anger, particularly in poor, rural white communities. The film does not offer easy answers but instead forces viewers to sit with discomfort, reflecting on the systems that sustain racism and the silence that allows it to persist.

The documentary also highlights the power of human connection. While Bliss encounters hostility, he also finds moments of solidarity—people willing to walk beside him, listen, and engage in difficult conversations. These interactions underscore the possibility of change, however slow and painful it may be.

By marking the fifth anniversary of George Floyd’s murder, White Man Walking serves as both a personal journey and a broader call for empathy and understanding. It challenges viewers to consider what it truly means to be an ally and how deeply ingrained prejudices can be confronted—not just in theory, but face to face, in the streets.

📅 Wednesday, 28th May

The Hate U Give (2018) – Film4, 11:25 PM
Adapted from Angie Thomas’s acclaimed novel, this is a raw, emotionally charged film about a teenager grappling with police violence, activism, and identity. Amandla Stenberg stars as Starr Carter, who moves between two worlds—her poor, Black neighbourhood and a privileged, mostly white private school.

Sense and Sensibility (Episodes 1–3) – BBC Four, from 10:00 PM
This Austen adaptation takes its time, allowing each emotional shift to unfold gradually. Episode one introduces the Dashwood sisters and their sudden reversal of fortune. Episode two brings romantic possibility and quiet heartbreak. Episode three deepens the conflict between duty and desire.

📅 Thursday, 29th May

The Remains of the Day (1993) – Film4, 6:05 PM
Merchant Ivory’s The Remains of the Day (1993) is a masterclass in restraint, a film that unfolds with quiet devastation, exploring dignity, repression, and the weight of missed opportunities. Anthony Hopkins delivers a haunting performance as Stevens, a butler whose unwavering loyalty to duty has left him emotionally stunted, unable to grasp the depth of his own sacrifices. Emma Thompson’s Miss Kenton, warm and perceptive, offers him a glimpse of something more—a life beyond service, beyond rigid decorum—but Stevens, bound by his own sense of propriety, cannot reach for it.

Beneath its elegant surface, the film is a profound meditation on class, power, and the cost of unquestioning loyalty. Stevens’ devotion to Lord Darlington, a man whose political sympathies veer dangerously toward appeasement, reflects the broader theme of misplaced faith—how adherence to hierarchy and tradition can blind individuals to moral failings. The film subtly critiques the British class system, showing how servitude, even when performed with dignity, can become a form of self-erasure.

The historical backdrop—the years leading up to World War II—adds another layer of tragedy. Stevens, so consumed by his role, fails to see the shifting tides of history, just as he fails to acknowledge his own emotions. His journey, framed as a road trip to reconnect with Miss Kenton, is less about rekindling romance and more about reckoning with regret. The film asks: What happens when a life is spent in service to others, at the expense of one’s own desires? Can dignity exist without personal fulfillment?

Visually, The Remains of the Day is stunning in its subtlety. The grandeur of Darlington Hall contrasts with the quiet melancholy of its inhabitants. The cinematography lingers on small gestures—a glance, a hesitation, a hand hovering near another—capturing the unspoken emotions that define the film. The final scene, with Stevens watching Miss Kenton disappear into the night, is a gut punch, a moment of realization too late.

This is not just a story of lost love; it is a story of self-denial, of the dangers of living entirely for duty. It remains one of the most poignant explorations of class, history, and human frailty ever put to screen. A film that lingers, much like the regrets it so delicately portrays.

L.A. Confidential (1997) – Legend, 9:00 PM
Curtis Hanson’s L.A. Confidential (1997) is a neo-noir masterpiece that peels back the glossy veneer of 1950s Los Angeles to reveal a city steeped in corruption, deception, and moral compromise. Adapted from James Ellroy’s novel, the film follows three very different cops—each with their own approach to justice—as they navigate a world where crime, politics, and Hollywood glamour are dangerously intertwined.

At its core, L.A. Confidential is a scathing critique of institutional corruption. The LAPD, presented as both protector and predator, operates more like a syndicate than a force for good. The film exposes the ways in which power is wielded—not to uphold justice, but to control narratives, silence dissent, and maintain the illusion of order. The media plays a crucial role in this deception, with tabloid journalist Sid Hudgens manufacturing scandals to serve the interests of those in power. The film’s portrayal of police brutality, cover-ups, and manipulation feels eerily relevant, reflecting ongoing conversations about law enforcement and accountability.

The three central detectives—Ed Exley (Guy Pearce), Bud White (Russell Crowe), and Jack Vincennes (Kevin Spacey)—embody different facets of the system. Exley, ambitious and idealistic, believes in justice but struggles with the compromises required to achieve it. White, driven by personal trauma, is a violent enforcer who sees himself as a protector of the vulnerable. Vincennes, slick and self-serving, is caught between his role as a cop and his desire for celebrity. Their arcs highlight the moral ambiguity of law enforcement—how personal motivations, rather than principles, often dictate actions.

The film also critiques the myth of Hollywood glamour. Beneath the dazzling lights and star-studded façades lies exploitation, secrecy, and the commodification of human lives. Kim Basinger’s Lynn Bracken, a Veronica Lake lookalike trapped in a world of manufactured fantasies, represents the cost of this illusion. Her character underscores the film’s theme of identity—how people are shaped, manipulated, and sometimes destroyed by the roles they are forced to play.

Visually, L.A. Confidential is stunning. Hanson and cinematographer Dante Spinotti craft a world that feels both nostalgic and unsettlingly modern. The film’s rich color palette, sharp contrasts, and meticulous framing evoke classic noir while maintaining a contemporary edge. The violence is brutal but never gratuitous, serving as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked power.

L.A. Confidential is a meditation on truth, power, and the cost of integrity in a world built on deception. Its themes remain as relevant today as they were in the 1950s. A gripping, intelligent, and beautifully crafted piece of cinema that refuses to offer easy answers.

Kelly’s Heroes (1970) – BBC Four, 10:30 PM
Kelly’s Heroes (1970) is a war film that defies traditional narratives, embracing a cynical, satirical view of military bureaucracy, heroism, and war’s underlying motivations. Unlike conventional World War II films, it presents soldiers driven not by duty but by personal gain, turning the battlefield into a gold heist rather than a noble struggle. Authority figures are depicted as incompetent or oblivious, reinforcing the idea that war is often mismanaged by those in power while individual soldiers must navigate its chaos for survival. The film also critiques the economic dimensions of war, framing it as an enterprise of profit rather than ideological conflict. Oddball, played by Donald Sutherland, embodies the countercultural spirit of the late 1960s, rejecting traditional military discipline in favour of a free-spirited, almost hippie-like philosophy that contrasts with standard war-film protagonists. By presenting combat as absurd and greed-driven, Kelly’s Heroes dismantles wartime heroism, portraying war not as a patriotic duty but as an opportunistic, often farcical endeavor. Beneath its comedic surface lies a sharp critique of warfare’s futility, making it one of the most subversive films in the genre.

📅 Friday, 30th May

Fire Island (2022) – Channel 4, 12:10 AM
Andrew Ahn’s Fire Island (2022) is a vibrant, unapologetically queer reimagining of Pride and Prejudice, set against the backdrop of the legendary Fire Island Pines. It’s a film that blends sharp social commentary with heartfelt romance, capturing both the joy and complexity of modern queer life.

Fire Island is a story about friendship, love, and the unspoken hierarchies within the LGBTQ+ community. Joel Kim Booster’s Noah, a witty and self-assured protagonist, takes on the Elizabeth Bennet role, navigating class divisions, romantic entanglements, and the pressures of queer social spaces. Bowen Yang’s Howie, more reserved and yearning for connection, mirrors Jane Bennet, while Conrad Ricamora’s Will, initially aloof and guarded, embodies the Darcy archetype. Their relationships unfold within the intoxicating chaos of Fire Island’s party scene, where status, attraction, and self-worth are constantly negotiated.

The film doesn’t shy away from exploring the intersection of class and privilege within queer spaces. Fire Island, long a haven for gay men, is also a place where wealth and exclusivity shape social dynamics. The tension between Noah’s working-class background and the affluence of Will and his friends echoes Austen’s critique of rigid class structures. The film asks: Who gets to belong? Who is deemed desirable? And how do these unspoken rules affect the way queer people see themselves and each other?

Beyond its social themes, Fire Island is a celebration. It revels in the freedom of chosen family, the thrill of summer romance, and the power of community. The humour is sharp, the chemistry electric, and the emotional beats deeply resonant. It’s a film that understands the importance of representation—not just in its diverse cast, but in its refusal to put pain over happiness.

The film is stunning, capturing the sun-soaked beauty of Fire Island while contrasting its idyllic setting with moments of vulnerability and introspection. The soundtrack pulses with energy, mirroring the highs and lows of the characters’ journeys. And at its heart, Fire Island remains true to Austen’s themes—love, self-discovery, and the courage to challenge societal expectations.

This is more than just a rom-com; it’s a statement. A film that embraces the messiness, beauty, and complexity of life while reminding us that, sometimes, love is found in the most unexpected places. Smart, funny, and full of heart, Fire Island is a modern classic in its own right.

Shadow in the Cloud (2020) – BBC One, 12:30 AM
Shadow in the Cloud (2020) is a genre-bending thrill ride that fuses WWII aerial combat with supernatural horror, feminist themes, and pulpy action. Chloë Grace Moretz delivers a fierce performance as Maude Garrett, a flight officer carrying a top-secret package aboard a B-17 bomber. As she battles sexism from the all-male crew, she soon faces an even greater threat—a monstrous gremlin lurking on the aircraft.

The film’s feminist undercurrent is unmistakable. Garrett’s struggle for respect mirrors the historical reality of women in male-dominated fields, particularly in wartime. The crew’s dismissive attitude toward her reflects ingrained misogyny, making her fight for survival not just against the creature but against systemic prejudice. Her resilience and tactical brilliance challenge the notion that heroism is reserved for men, reinforcing the film’s subversive edge.

Beyond its feminist themes, Shadow in the Cloud critiques wartime propaganda and the glorification of military heroism. The exaggerated action sequences—where Garrett defies gravity and logic—play into the myth-making often associated with war stories. The film knowingly embraces its absurdity, using it to highlight the way narratives of heroism are shaped and distorted.

The film is striking, with claustrophobic cinematography that heightens tension. The confined space of the bomber’s ball turret becomes a pressure cooker, forcing Garrett into a relentless battle against both human and supernatural threats. The gremlin itself, a nod to WWII folklore, symbolizes the unseen dangers of war—whether mechanical failures, enemy attacks, or internal sabotage.

While the film’s tonal shifts can be jarring, its audacity is part of its charm. It refuses to be boxed into a single genre, blending horror, action, and feminist commentary into a chaotic but compelling spectacle. Shadow in the Cloud is bold, bonkers, and undeniably entertaining—a film that takes risks and revels in its own madness.

📡and finally, Streaming Choices

Surviving the Tunisia Beach Attack – Prime Video, from Sunday 25 May

This documentary offers a deeply personal and harrowing account of the 2015 Tunisia beach massacre, where a lone gunman killed 38 people, including 30 British tourists. Told through the voices of survivors, it reconstructs the attack moment by moment, exploring the fight-or-flight responses that saved lives and the extraordinary acts of courage in the face of terror.

Beyond its immediate tragedy, the documentary examines the long-term psychological impact of such violence. Survivors reflect on grief, trauma, and the struggle to rebuild their lives, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit. It also raises broader ethical and political questions about terrorism, security failures, and the responsibility of governments in protecting citizens abroad.

The attack, linked to Islamic extremism, underscores the ongoing global challenge of radicalisation and the devastating consequences of ideological violence. The documentary does not just recount events—it forces viewers to confront the fragility of safety, the unpredictability of terror, and the ways in which societies respond to such atrocities. It is a vital piece of storytelling that honours the victims while prompting reflection on the world’s ongoing battle against extremism.

Department Q – Netflix, from Thursday, 29th May

This Danish crime series, based on Jussi Adler-Olsen’s bestselling novels, delves into the dark underbelly of Nordic noir, blending psychological depth with slow-burning intrigue. The story follows Carl Mørck, a brilliant but emotionally scarred detective, assigned to a cold case unit after a traumatic incident leaves his partner paralysed and another officer dead.

Department Q is an exploration of guilt, redemption, and the institutional failures within law enforcement. Mørck’s exile to the basement of the police department reflects the way bureaucracies often sideline those who challenge the system. His relentless pursuit of justice, despite personal demons, speaks to the moral complexities of policing—how trauma, corruption, and political pressures shape investigations.

The series also critiques the justice system’s handling of cold cases, questioning how many crimes remain unsolved due to negligence, lack of resources, or deliberate cover-ups. As Mørck and his team uncover buried truths, the show forces viewers to consider the ethical dilemmas of law enforcement: What happens when justice is delayed? How do victims and their families cope with unresolved crimes?

With its bleak Scandinavian landscapes and intricate storytelling, Department Q is a gripping addition to the Nordic noir genre, offering both suspense and a thought-provoking look at the human cost of crime and justice.

Picture credits

Mon Oncle (1958)
Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=14855843
Doctor Who
By https://www.instagram.com/bbcdoctorwho/p/DHyBku8OAtV/, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=79334790
Apocalypse Stalin
By James Abbe – Immediate source: [1]Initial publication: The New York Times, 8 May 1932 (image of first page available at [2]), as attested in Shooting Stalin: The Wonderful Years of James Abbe (2005), ISBN 9783865210432, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=163452326
Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story
By Unknown author – ebay, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=28341206
The Running Man (1987) (Note: often listed as 1987)
By http://www.impawards.com/1987/running_man.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=34215915
From Russia with Love (1963)
By IMP Awards, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37428191
Three Thousand Years of Longing (2022)
By http://www.impawards.com/2022/three_thousand_years_of_longing_xxlg.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=70822455
Jane Austen
Fair use.
Pride and Prejudice (2005)
The poster art can or could be obtained from Focus Features., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=30525992
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)
Derived from a scan of the poster (creator of this digital version is irrelevant as the copyright in all equivalent images is still held by the same party). Copyright held by the film company or the artist. Claimed as fair use regardless., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=5714576
The Hate U Give (2018)
The poster art can or could be obtained from the distributor., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=58853244
Sense and Sensibility (TV adaptation – BBC) (2008)
By http://elegance-of-fashion.blogspot.com/2011/03/review-sense-and-sensibility-2008.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=24033034
The Remains of the Day (1993)
By http://www.impawards.com/1993/remains_of_the_day.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6745078
L.A. Confidential (1997)
By http://www.impawards.com/1997/la_confidential.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6898645
Kelly’s Heroes (1970)
By Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) – IMPawards, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=38329896
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
Shadow in the Cloud (2020)
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Culture Vulture TV and Film Picks, 17–23 May 2025

May 17, 2025 at 11:45 am · Filed under Culture Vulture, Film & DVD Reviews, TV Shows ·Tagged , , , ,


Selections and commentary by Pat Harrington
Original music on our video edition by Tim Bragg

3,524 words, 19 minutes read time.

This week’s picks illuminate power, protest, and identity with remarkable clarity. At the heart of the television schedule lies a commitment to confronting injustice and re-examining history: from new angles on the Titanic and the Lockerbie bombing to George Floyd’s global legacy and the silencing of working-class voices in British schools. Films offer the same sharpness: we move from Spike Lee’s masterful biopic of Malcolm X to British Gothic horror and Almodóvar’s meditations on memory and motherhood. Whether it’s courtroom showdowns or polar expeditions, every story this week echoes into the present.

📅 Saturday, 17 May

Doctor Who: The Interstellar Song Contest (BBC One, 7:10 PM)
This glitter-bomb of an episode drops the Doctor and Ruby into an intergalactic Eurovision-style contest. Underneath the dazzle lies a critique of soft-power politics and propaganda by entertainment. Ncuti Gatwa is magnetic, balancing comic timing with a growing emotional range, while the satire never lets up. There are monsters, metaphors, and musical mayhem in abundance.

Titanic: Our Secret History (Channel 4, 8:00 PM)
Not another retelling of the iceberg tragedy, but a deep dive into the ship’s under-explored backstories. This absorbing documentary reframes the Titanic as a floating symbol of class division and industrial overreach. Drawing on fresh sources and survivor testimonies, it paints a vivid, poignant picture of lives shaped by hubris and inequality.

The Untouchables (1987) (BBC Two, 10:00 PM) ★★★★
Brian De Palma’s stylised gangster saga pits Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) against Al Capone (Robert De Niro) with operatic flair. The screenplay, written by David Mamet, crafts a battle between virtue and corruption with theatrical weight. Sean Connery provides the grit and gravitas, winning an Oscar for his supporting role as Malone.

The direction is bold, with De Palma’s signature set-pieces — especially the slow-motion shootout on the train station steps — creating a heightened world of mythic justice. The score by Ennio Morricone lifts scenes into epic territory without ever losing tension.

This is a film that revels in cinematic bravado while remaining morally unambiguous. It doesn’t flinch from sentimentality, but it earns its emotion with sheer style and craftsmanship.

Parallel Mothers (2021) (BBC Two, 12:50 AM) ★★★★ 🌟
Pedro Almodóvar entwines personal drama with political memory in this story of two women whose lives intersect in unexpected ways. Penélope Cruz is extraordinary in a performance that is both maternal and haunted. She plays Janis, a photographer whose decision to investigate her family’s past leads to unsettling revelations.

Almodóvar delicately balances melodrama with meditative reflection. The domestic storyline never overshadows the deeper commentary on Spain’s reckoning with its Civil War-era crimes, creating a powerful blend of private and collective history.

Visually rich and emotionally generous, Parallel Mothers is a late-career triumph that shows Almodóvar still capable of reinventing his thematic concerns with elegance and depth.

Dead of Night (1945) (Film4, 1:50 AM) ★★★★★
This British horror anthology remains one of the most inventive and disturbing films of its era. A series of eerie tales, linked by a framing device of a man haunted by a recurring nightmare, it taps into postwar anxieties with uncanny precision.

Each segment offers something unique, but it’s the ventriloquist dummy story, starring Michael Redgrave, that sears itself into the mind. The psychological terror here is deeper and more existential than simple ghost stories.

Blending surrealism with social unease, Dead of Night influenced everything from The Twilight Zone to modern horror. It’s a masterclass in atmosphere and dread.

📅 Sunday, 18 May

The Bombing of Pan Am 103 (1 of 6) 🌟
This docuseries embarks on a harrowing and deeply personal investigation into the Lockerbie disaster, peeling back layers of history to expose the political and intelligence failures that shaped the response. Drawing on newly declassified files and firsthand testimonies, it does more than recount the events of December 21, 1988—it interrogates the mechanisms of power that dictated how justice was pursued, or in some cases, obstructed.

Rather than adopting a conventional true-crime format, the series takes a profoundly human approach, placing the families of the victims at the heart of the narrative. Their decades-long struggle for answers is not framed as a subplot but as the driving force behind the investigation. The programme refuses to tiptoe around the uncomfortable truths of state accountability—questions are asked boldly, not whispered in the margins.

The political dimensions of Lockerbie are unavoidable. From the moment Pan Am Flight 103 exploded over Scotland, killing 270 people, the tragedy became entangled in international diplomacy, intelligence operations, and geopolitical maneuvering. The official conviction of Libyan intelligence officer Abdelbaset al-Megrahi remains one of the most contested rulings in modern history, with some arguing that Libya was scapegoated for political expediency while the real perpetrators—potentially linked to Iran or Syrian-backed groups—escaped scrutiny. The series does not shy away from these controversies, instead confronting them head-on, examining how shifting alliances and covert intelligence dealings may have influenced the investigation.

Beyond the question of who was responsible, the series also scrutinizes how governments handle acts of terror. The response to Lockerbie set precedents that would later shape policies on counterterrorism and victim support, influencing how authorities reacted to tragedies such as 9/11. The failures in communication, the lack of transparency, and the reluctance to acknowledge prior warnings about the attack all raise unsettling questions about the balance between national security and public accountability.

Expect this series to reignite old wounds and provoke urgent discussions about how nations reckon with terror, truth, and memory. It is not merely a retelling of history—it is an indictment of the systems that dictate whose grief is acknowledged, whose voices are heard, and whose version of events is allowed to stand unchallenged.

The Wicked Lady (1945) (Talking Pictures, 6:00 PM) ★★★★
Margaret Lockwood stars in this florid melodrama about a bored aristocrat who becomes a highway robber. A Technicolor romp with lace, daggers, and stolen kisses, it shocked censors on release and delights in its heroine’s moral ambiguity.

Gainsborough Pictures excelled at this kind of heightened costume drama, and The Wicked Lady is among the most brazen examples. Lockwood’s performance is charged with charisma and cheek.

A valuable watch not just for its camp appeal, but as a rare early British portrait of female rebellion.

📅 Monday, 19 May

Inside Our Minds (BBC Two, 9:00 PM)
Inside Our Minds is a compelling documentary series that shines a light on neurodivergence, offering a deeply personal and insightful look into how different minds work. Hosted by Chris Packham, the show helps individuals with conditions such as ADHD and dyslexia create films that express their experiences in a way that words often cannot.

The upcoming episode continues this journey, providing a platform for neurodivergent individuals to share their stories and perspectives. If previous episodes are anything to go by, viewers can expect a mix of emotional revelations, scientific insights, and beautifully crafted storytelling that challenges misconceptions and fosters understanding.

For those interested in exploring the complexities of the human brain and the lived experiences of neurodivergent individuals, this episode promises to be both enlightening and moving.

Nixon in the Den (PBS America, 9.55pm)
Nixon in the Den is a gripping and meticulously crafted documentary that peels back the layers of Richard Nixon’s presidency, offering a psychological portrait of a man whose ambition and paranoia shaped American history. Rather than resorting to caricature or simplistic villainy, the film presents Nixon as a deeply complex figure—an astute political strategist whose insecurities and distrust of others ultimately led to his downfall.

Through rarely seen archival footage and insightful interviews, the documentary reconstructs Nixon’s rise from a modest, often loveless upbringing to the heights of global power. It explores how his relentless drive to escape his past fueled his political success, yet also bred the paranoia that would consume him. The film does not shy away from the darker aspects of his presidency, particularly the Watergate scandal, but it reframes these events with fresh perspective, examining how Nixon’s psychological makeup influenced his decisions.

Beyond the scandals, Nixon in the Den delves into his foreign policy achievements, including his groundbreaking visit to China and his complex relationship with the Soviet Union. It acknowledges his diplomatic prowess while simultaneously exposing the ruthless tactics he employed behind the scenes. The documentary paints a portrait of a leader who was both brilliant and deeply flawed—a man whose legacy remains one of the most debated in American history.

This is not just a retelling of well-known events; it is an excavation of Nixon’s mind, revealing the contradictions that defined him. Expect a tense, thought-provoking exploration of power, paranoia, and the fragile nature of political legacy.

Little Women (2019) (Film4, 6:20 PM) ★★★★
Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel plays with time and structure, refreshing the story while honouring its spirit. Saoirse Ronan leads a luminous cast, capturing Jo March’s restlessness with grace.

The visual palette, inspired by impressionist paintings, gives each scene a lived-in warmth. Florence Pugh’s Amy is especially well-drawn, turning a traditionally maligned character into a figure of surprising clarity and ambition.

Gerwig frames this as a tale of authorship and economic survival, enriching its relevance for modern viewers.

Malcolm X (1992) (BBC Two, 11:00 PM) ★★★★★ 🌟
Spike Lee’s biopic of Malcolm X remains a towering cinematic achievement. Charting his transformation from petty criminal to political icon, it never loses sight of the man behind the myth.

Denzel Washington’s performance is magnificent: disciplined, impassioned, and spiritually searching. He captures Malcolm’s shifts in tone, from firebrand to philosopher, with heartbreaking nuance.

The film is long, but its scope feels earned. It is a film of ideas, anger, and dignity — and one that should be required viewing.

he film is long, but its scope feels earned. It is a film of ideas, anger, and dignity — and one that should be required viewing.

📅 Tuesday, 20 May

The Admirable Crichton (1957) (Film 4, 4.35pm) ★★★★

The Admirable Crichton (1957), directed by Lewis Gilbert and based on J.M. Barrie’s play, is a fascinating exploration of class structure and social hierarchy, wrapped in the guise of a comedic adventure. The film challenges the rigid British class system by placing aristocrats and their servant on a deserted island, where survival necessitates a dramatic role reversal.

At the heart of the film is the question of capability versus status. In Edwardian Britain, nobility is synonymous with leadership, but when the pampered upper class is stripped of its comforts, it is Crichton, the butler, who proves himself most resourceful. This reversal of roles underscores the arbitrary nature of social rank, suggesting that competence, rather than birthright, should dictate leadership. The dynamic between Crichton and the stranded aristocrats becomes a microcosm of meritocracy, subverting the established norms of the British class system.

Additionally, the film exposes the fragility of aristocratic entitlement. The members of the ruling class are reduced to helpless figures, unable to fend for themselves without Crichton’s guidance. The irony here is sharp—these are the people who, by birth, rule nations, yet they cannot boil water or build shelter. This critique of social structure implies that the traditional class divisions may be outdated and impractical.

Although lighthearted, the film reflects post-war Britain’s shifting perspectives on class and social mobility. Released during an era when Britain was undergoing profound social change, The Admirable Crichton subtly comments on the growing sentiment that leadership should be earned rather than inherited. The character of Crichton represents a democratic ideal, in which individuals are judged by ability rather than status.

Yet, the film does not fully embrace revolution. When the characters return to England, the established order is reinstated, demonstrating the persistent grip of tradition. Crichton, despite proving himself a capable leader, willingly steps back into his servant role, hinting at an internalized acceptance of the societal framework. The film suggests that while class structures may be flawed, breaking free from their constraints is not simple, nor always desired by those within them.

The Admirable Crichton is both a satire and a thought-provoking social commentary, asking audiences to reconsider entrenched notions of class and leadership. While it offers moments of humour and romance, its deeper message remains relevant: Who truly deserves power, and why do we accept the structures that govern us? It is a film that entertains while inviting reflection on timeless societal and political debates.

📅 Wednesday, 21 May

The Backlash: The Murder of George Floyd (BBC Two, 9:00 PM) 🌟
The Backlash: The Murder of George Floyd is a powerful and unflinching documentary that examines the seismic impact of George Floyd’s death—not just in the United States, but across the world. More than a retelling of the events surrounding Derek Chauvin’s trial, this film takes a broader view, exploring how societies react to protest, how institutions respond to demands for justice, and how the fight against racial inequality continues to evolve.

Through a combination of unseen archival footage and deeply personal interviews, the documentary captures the raw emotion of the protests that erupted in the wake of Floyd’s murder. It follows the young activists who took to the streets, defying police orders and pandemic restrictions to demand change. Their voices, alongside those of Floyd’s family, legal experts, and cultural figures, form the backbone of the film, ensuring that the narrative remains grounded in lived experience rather than detached analysis.

The documentary also examines the political and institutional responses to the Black Lives Matter movement. In the US, Floyd’s death led to widespread calls for police reform, corporate pledges to address systemic racism, and a reckoning within the media and entertainment industries. But as statues were toppled and protests grew more confrontational, a counter-movement emerged, seeking to discredit and dismantle the momentum of racial justice activism. The film does not shy away from this backlash, exploring how political figures, media outlets, and social movements have sought to reshape the conversation, sometimes in ways that obscure the original demands for accountability.

In the UK, Floyd’s murder resonated deeply, sparking protests that highlighted Britain’s own struggles with racial injustice. The documentary weaves together the American and British narratives, showing how Floyd’s death became a moment of reckoning on both sides of the Atlantic. It revisits key moments, from John Boyega’s impassioned speech in London to the removal of statues linked to colonialism, and examines how these events shaped public discourse on race and history.

At a time when diversity initiatives are being rolled back in the US and debates over racial justice remain deeply polarizing, The Backlash: The Murder of George Floyd asks urgent questions,

Wild Rose (2018) (Film4, 11:25 PM) ★★★★
Jessie Buckley plays a Scottish single mum fresh out of prison who dreams of Nashville stardom. It could be clichéd, but the script and performance resist easy sentiment.

The film balances grit and hope, showing how creativity and aspiration battle poverty and stigma. It features one of Buckley’s finest performances to date.

With its tender mother-daughter dynamic and stirring music, Wild Rose is soulful without being saccharine.

📅 Thursday, 22 May


The Secret Life of Bees (1 of 2) (Channel 5, 9:00 PM)
The Secret Life of Bees (Channel 5, 9:00 PM)

This fascinating documentary, hosted by British naturalist Steve Backshall, takes viewers deep into the world of bees, revealing their intricate societies and vital role in the ecosystem. The first episode explores the 270 different bee species in Britain, showcasing their behaviors, historical significance, and the cutting-edge research being conducted to understand them better.

Backshall, who is learning to be a beekeeper for the first time, brings a personal touch to the series, immersing himself in the challenges and rewards of apiculture. The documentary emphasizes the importance of pollinators in maintaining food security and biodiversity, making a compelling case for why we should all care about these remarkable insects.

With stunning visuals and insightful commentary, The Secret Life of Bees is both educational and engaging, offering a fresh perspective on creatures we often take for granted. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply curious about the hidden lives of bees, this documentary is well worth watching.

Classic Movies: The Story of Scott of the Antarctic (Sky Arts, 8:00 PM)
This engaging retrospective looks at the making and legacy of the 1948 film Scott of the Antarctic, revealing how it helped shape British perceptions of heroism, exploration, and sacrifice. A treat for cinephiles and history buffs alike.

Out of the Furnace (2013) (Legend, 9:00 PM) ★★★
Christian Bale and Casey Affleck star in this moody, downbeat drama set in the rust belt of America. It’s a tale of brothers and broken dreams, heavy on grit and grey skies.

The plot leans into noir territory, with violence and retribution at its core. Woody Harrelson’s turn as a sadistic villain steals every scene.

Bleak but beautifully shot, it speaks volumes about the costs of economic collapse.

A Few Good Men (1992) (Film4, 9:00 PM) ★★★★
Aaron Sorkin’s courtroom drama remains gripping and smart, anchored by powerhouse performances. Tom Cruise, Demi Moore, and Jack Nicholson circle each other with increasing tension.

At its heart, it’s a morality play about duty and the abuse of power. The climactic courtroom exchange has entered pop culture, but the surrounding story is equally compelling.

It’s a satisfyingly old-school thriller with genuine thematic weight.

📅 Friday, 23 May


Draining Pompeii: Secrets Beneath the Ash (Channel 5, 9:00 PM)
Using advanced scanning and excavation techniques, this documentary uncovers new insights into the lives of ordinary Pompeiians buried under ash. It’s a poignant exploration of vulnerability, daily life, and the forgotten victims of catastrophe.

Brass (Rewind TV, 7:00 PM)
A satire of British class, industry, and soap opera tropes, Brass skewers Thatcherite Britain with absurdist flair. The northern accents are thick, the stakes are ridiculous, and the politics are gleefully unsubtle.

Judy (2019) (BBC Two, 11:00 PM) ★★★★
Renée Zellweger disappears into the tragic glamour of Judy Garland’s final act. We find her broke, addicted, and still trying to sing, haunted by a life in the spotlight.

Zellweger’s physical transformation is matched by emotional truth. She captures Garland’s humour, vulnerability, and desperation.

Far from a showbiz hagiography, the film honours Judy by showing her at her most human.

Booksmart (2019) (BBC One, 11:40 PM) ★★★★
Two bookish girls decide to cram all of high school’s missed fun into one wild night. Olivia Wilde’s directorial debut is fast, fresh, and surprisingly moving.

Kaitlyn Dever and Beanie Feldstein share chemistry that grounds even the zaniest moments. It’s a film that balances sharp jokes with a big heart.

Modern, inclusive, and genuinely funny, it holds its own against the great teen comedies of any era.

📺 And finally, streaming choices

Rematch (Disney+, all six episodes available from Wednesday 21 May)
Rematch is an intense six-part series that dives into one of the most famous chess matches in history—the 1997 battle between Garry Kasparov and IBM’s Deep Blue supercomputer. The show isn’t just about chess, though—it’s about the tension between human intelligence and machine power, and it keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Christian Cooke plays Kasparov, bringing out all his passion, frustration, and determination as he faces off against a machine designed to defeat him. The supporting cast, including Sarah Bolger and Aidan Quinn, add depth to the story, making the stakes feel personal as well as historical.

Visually, the series pulls you in with its sharp cinematography, making every move on the board feel like a high-stakes moment. Whether you’re a chess fan or just love a gripping story, Rematch delivers drama, strategy, and a fascinating look at a turning point in history

Tucci in Italy (Disney+, all five episodes available from Monday 19 May)
Stanley Tucci’s culinary journey through Italy returns with warmth, elegance, and charm. He moves through regions both familiar and overlooked, meeting cooks, farmers, and winemakers. More than a travelogue, it’s a celebration of resilience, tradition, and the sensual pleasure of eating well.

Picture credits

Doctor Who: The Interstellar Song Contest
Titanic: Our Secret History By Francis Godolphin Osbourne Stuart –
The Untouchables Fair use.
Parallel Mothers Fair use,.
Dead of Night Fair use.
The Bombing of Pan Am 103 By Air Accident Investigation Branch – Air Accident Investigation BranchReport No: 2/1990
The Wicked Lady Fair use.
Inside Our Minds By Garry Knight from London, England – People’s Walk for Wildlife 2018 – 04, CC BY 2.0,
Nixon in the Den By James Anthony Wills – archive copy at the Wayback Machine, Public Domain,
Little Women
Malcolm X

The Admirable Crichton By Columbia Pictures – Fair use,
The Backlash: The Murder of George Floyd: By Darnella Frazier Facebook post., Fair use.
Wild Rose By Studio and or Graphic Artist – Can be obtained from the film’s distributor., Fair use.
The Secret Life of Bees By Impawards, Fair use.
Classic Movies: The Story of Scott of the Antarctic
Out of the Furnace IMP Awards, Fair use.
A Few Good Men
Draining Pompeii: Secrets Beneath the Ash By ElfQrin – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0,
Brass
Judy
Booksmart By Trent Farr, Fair use.
Rematch By James the photographer
Tucci in Italy By Raph_PH – ConclaveBFILFF101024 (9 of 44), CC BY 2.0,

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Culture Vulture 10th to the 16th of May 2025

May 10, 2025 at 7:22 am · Filed under Culture Vulture, Film & DVD Reviews, TV Shows ·Tagged , , ,


3,278 words, 17 minutes read time.

Curated by Pat Harrington. Music on the video version is by Tim Bragg.
High Society offers crystalline grace. Bodies Bodies Bodies presents a disorienting descent. It’s a week of layered narratives and compelling portraits. On Saturday, a stirring new Doctor Who episode airs. There is also a haunting music documentary. On Thursday, the UK terrestrial premiere of She Said airs. It’s a landmark in modern journalism cinema. Streaming highlight: Bet, a razor-sharp adaptation of the acclaimed manga Kakegurui,

🗓️ Saturday, 10th May

Believe (2013): BBC Two, 10:00 AM ★★★★☆
Believe is set in 1980s Manchester. Loosely inspired by real events, it presents the story of football legend Sir Matt Busby. He unexpectedly mentors a young tearaway with raw talent. Brian Cox plays Busby with tenderness and quiet gravitas. He brings a warmth to the role. This anchors the film’s sentimental core. The story unfolds with charm and low-stakes humour. The pair navigate personal loss. They face team dynamics. They confront the shadows of Busby’s past.

The film resists over-dramatisation, focusing instead on the healing potential of sport and human connection. It captures the texture of working-class northern life with an affectionate eye, without tipping into caricature. The young cast deliver natural, unforced performances, particularly Jack Smith as Georgie, the boy who reluctantly discovers the value of guidance and community.

Though it treads familiar underdog territory, Believe succeeds on the strength of its sincerity. Director David Scheinmann crafts a film that is modest in scale. It is rich in feeling. It reminds viewers that redemption and legacy often come in small, unexpected moments. It’s a gentle and affirming way to start your Saturday.

High Society (1956): BBC Two, 2:50 PM ★★★★☆
This sparkling musical remake of The Philadelphia Story boasts a glittering cast. It features Cole Porter’s finest tunes. Grace Kelly, in her final film role before becoming Princess of Monaco, plays the haughty heiress. She is caught between past and future lovers. Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby are the competing suitors. They trade witty barbs and smooth vocals. Their story unfolds in a tale of mistaken intentions and reawakening hearts. It’s a sumptuous production, full of pastel glamour and high-society satire.

Despite the predictability of the plot, the charm lies in the performances and music. Crosby exudes laid-back charisma, while Sinatra brings a sharper, more worldly edge to his role as a tabloid reporter. The standout moment, however, belongs to the duet “Well, Did You Evah!”—a sequence that crackles with humour and rhythm. Meanwhile, Kelly navigates her character’s emotional thaw with understated precision. Her transformation feels believable even within the constraints of the genre.

If High Society doesn’t quite match the sophistication of its predecessor, it compensates with grace, melody, and a whimsical spirit. The film is a reminder of the golden era of Hollywood musicals. Artifice became artistry. Even the most jaded character could be redeemed by the right note at the right moment.

Doctor Who: “The Story & The Engine” (Series 15, Episode 5): BBC One, 7:10 PM

In this richly layered episode, the Doctor (Ncuti Gatwa) and companion Belinda Chandra (Varada Sethu) arrive in Lagos, Nigeria. They meet a world where stories hold tangible power. The narrative focuses on a mysterious figure known as the Barber. This figure reigns supreme in a community trapped by a deadly web of revenge. This web is spun by the enigmatic Spider.

Rebecca (1940): Talking Pictures, 9:05 PM ★★★★★
Hitchcock’s first Hollywood film, and still one of his most haunting, Rebecca adapts Daphne du Maurier’s gothic novel into a psychological thriller thick with atmosphere and ambiguity. Joan Fontaine plays the unnamed heroine, swept into a whirlwind marriage with the brooding Maxim de Winter, only to find herself eclipsed by the memory of his late wife. The estate of Manderley becomes a maze of secrets, where the dead exert more power than the living.

What elevates Rebecca is not just its suspense but its study of identity, insecurity, and social isolation. Fontaine is exquisite as the timid second Mrs de Winter. She struggles to assert herself in a world shaped by wealth, grief, and manipulation. Judith Anderson’s performance as Mrs Danvers is chilling. She is the housekeeper obsessed with Rebecca’s memory. Her portrayal remains one of cinema’s most iconic portraits of unspoken menace.

Hitchcock later claimed it wasn’t “a Hitchcock picture.” Still, the film is suffused with his signature control over tone and tension. Its shadowy visuals create an intense atmosphere. Emotional claustrophobia grips the audience. Undercurrents of repressed longing guarantee that Rebecca endures as both a ghost story and a psychological drama. A timeless, elegant descent into obsession.

🗓️ Sunday, 11th May

Unforgotten: The Bradford City Fire: BBC Two, 9:00 PM

This harrowing and deeply moving documentary revisits the tragic events of May 11, 1985. On this day, a fire engulfed the main stand at Bradford City’s Valley Parade stadium during a match against Lincoln City. It claimed 56 lives. The film airs on the 40th anniversary of the disaster. It offers a poignant exploration of a catastrophe. This tragedy has often been overshadowed in the annals of British football history.

The documentary features compelling personal testimonies. Survivors, bereaved families, and first responders share their stories. These accounts paint a vivid picture of the day’s events and their enduring impact. The inclusion of archival footage and interviews provides a comprehensive narrative. It honors the memories of those lost and highlights the resilience of the Bradford community.

Executive Producer Jaimie D’Cruz and Director Andy R. Worboys handle the subject matter with sensitivity and respect, ensuring that the voices of those affected are at the forefront. The film commemorates the victims. It also examines the broader implications of the disaster. This includes its influence on stadium safety regulations and the importance of collective memory.

“Unforgotten: The Bradford City Fire” stands as a testament to the strength of a community facing unimaginable loss. It serves as a crucial reminder of the need to remember and learn from past tragedies.

Brooklyn (2015): BBC Two, 10:30 PM ★★★★★
Brooklyn is a film about leaving home—and learning what “home” really means. Saoirse Ronan stars as Eilis, a young Irish woman. She emigrates to New York in the 1950s. She is in search of work and opportunity. The story begins with culture shock and personal growth. It deepens into something far more moving. It becomes a meditation on longing, belonging, and the fragile duality of identity. Ronan’s performance is radiant, filled with grace and restraint.

The film is directed by John Crowley. Nick Hornby adapted it from Colm Tóibín’s novel. It is visually lush with warm period detail. The evocative cinematography enhances the experience. The contrast between the muted tones of Enniscorthy and the vibrant hues of Brooklyn reflects Eilis’s shifting internal world. Her romance with the open-hearted Tony is delicately handled, offering emotional security without idealisation. Yet the return to Ireland complicates everything, and Ronan captures Eilis’s emotional conflict with aching subtlety.

Brooklyn avoids melodrama in favour of emotional authenticity. It’s a story built on small, significant choices. A letter, a glance, or a missed ferry carries the weight of a life’s direction. By the end, what lingers is the quiet strength of a woman. She is carving her own path through the push and pull of two homes. It’s a story many will find intimately familiar

🗓️ Monday, 12th May

Greggs vs McDonald’s: The Fast Feud (Channel 4, 8:00 PM)
This quirky documentary unpacks a battle of British fast-food titans. On one side, the humble northern bakery with sausage rolls and steak bakes; on the other, the American giant serving Big Macs and fries. But it’s about more than meat and pastry—this is a story of branding, regional identity, and changing appetites.

The programme delves into how each company adapts to shifting cultural trends and economic pressures. It also looks at the way they communicate class, convenience, and comfort food, sometimes in surprisingly political ways.

Entertaining and unexpectedly insightful, it frames the feud as symbolic of broader societal change. Fans of business strategy and British quirks alike will find something to savour.

Inside Our Minds: ADHD (BBC Two, 9:00 PM)
This documentary series starts by empathetically exploring ADHD in adults. It also dives into the perspectives of children. The first episode focuses on diagnosis, daily challenges, and the invisible barriers those with ADHD navigate. It offers not only medical perspectives but also deeply personal insights.

Participants speak candidly about stigma, misunderstanding, and the emotional toll of being labelled “difficult” or “lazy.” The episode excels in capturing both frustration and resilience. It highlights the need for more inclusive environments at school and work.

With thoughtful pacing and clear-eyed narration, the show goes beyond pathology to tackle lived experience. A valuable watch for educators, employers, and anyone interested in mental health.

True Things (BBC Two, 11:40 PM, 2021) ★★★★☆
Ruth Wilson is riveting in this psychological drama about a woman caught in the gravitational pull of a dangerous affair. Her character, Kate, begins a volatile relationship with a mysterious stranger (Tom Burke), and her life starts to unravel.

The film doesn’t sensationalise the spiral; instead, it hones in on the emotional fog and disorientation that often accompany destructive intimacy. Wilson gives a performance full of nuance, letting us feel every moment of hope, confusion, and desperation.

With naturalistic direction and a script rooted in emotional truth, True Things avoids moralising. It’s a challenging, intimate portrayal of a woman losing and slowly reclaiming herself.

🗓️ Tuesday, 13th May

Kind Hearts and Coronets (Film4, 12:35 PM, 1949) ★★★★★
This is a classic of British black comedy. This Ealing Studios gem shows a disinherited aristocrat eliminating eight relatives. He does so to inherit a dukedom. Alec Guinness famously plays all eight doomed relatives with glee and elegance.

Dennis Price’s suave narrator brings a chilling detachment to the tale of social climbing and revenge. His droll delivery and the film’s crisp script guarantee the murders stay darkly funny rather than gruesome.

Beneath the humour lies a sharp satire of class and entitlement, making it as culturally relevant now as ever. A true masterclass in tone and restraint.

Convicting My Ex (BBC Three, 9:00 PM)
This true-crime documentary focuses on a woman’s pursuit of justice. She seeks justice against an abusive ex-partner. It chronicles her decision to bring the case to court and the exhausting legal and emotional process that follows.

What sets it apart is its raw honesty and refusal to simplify complex emotional territory. The programme examines trauma and memory. It also investigates credibility and the strain on victims. These victims are forced to relive their ordeals in public.

It’s a sobering but essential watch that handles its topic with sensitivity and care. A crucial reminder of how much support and reform is still needed within the justice system.

🗓️ Wednesday, 14th May

Garbo: Where Did You Go? (Sky Arts, 9:00 PM)
This documentary is a haunting meditation on the disappearance of Greta Garbo from public life. It is less biography than elegy. It tries to understand why one of Hollywood’s most luminous stars chose to vanish at the height of her fame.

It uses archive footage, photography, and letters. These elements build a complex portrait of a woman. She defied convention both onscreen and off. Garbo’s retreat becomes a symbol for privacy in a time of celebrity overexposure.

The film is a thoughtful, poetic reflection on fame, solitude, and the right to vanish. A quietly mesmerising experience.

Carol (Film4, 11:20 PM, 2015) ★★★★★
This film is a masterful adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s novel The Price of Salt. It follows a forbidden romance between two women in 1950s America. Cate Blanchett plays Carol with regal poise and aching sadness, while Rooney Mara’s Therese evolves from uncertainty to quiet strength.

The cinematography showcases muted palettes and delicate framing. It reflects the repression of the era. It also captures the emotional intensity of the characters. Every glance and touch feels monumental.

Todd Haynes crafts a film of rare beauty and emotional precision. It’s not just a love story—it’s an act of defiance in a world built to suppress such truths.

🗓️ Thursday, 15th May

Classic Movies: The Story of The Dam Busters (Sky Arts, 8:00 PM)
This documentary revisits one of Britain’s most iconic war films and its legacy. It provides context around the real-life mission, the cinematic innovation of the film, and its enduring place in national myth.

The programme doesn’t shy away from critiquing the film’s dated elements, even as it honours its craft. Viewers learn how the use of miniature models, editing, and music helped shape a patriotic classic.

It’s both a celebration and a critical look at storytelling in wartime cinema. Fans of film history will find much to enjoy.

She Said (Film4, 9:00 PM, 2022). ★★★★★
This powerful dramatization of the Weinstein investigation stars Carey Mulligan and Zoe Kazan. They play the New York Times journalists who broke the story. It’s a film about courage, collaboration, and the often invisible work of holding power to account.

Rather than indulging in melodrama, the script focuses on journalistic rigour and solidarity. Scenes between survivors and reporters are handled with care, never sensationalising pain.

A vital entry in the canon of films about truth-telling, She Said shows how small decisions can change the world. An absolute must-watch.

The Drop (Film4, 11:35 PM, 2014) ★★★★☆
At first glance, The Drop might appear to be a straightforward crime thriller. Yet, beneath its gritty narrative lie profound social, ethical, and political themes. These themes elevate it beyond genre conventions. The film explores economic hardship and the forces that push people into morally gray survival tactics. Tom Hardy’s character plays a quiet bartender entangled in gang activity. His character illustrates the struggles of working-class communities. In these communities, financial instability can lead individuals down dangerous paths. The narrative critiques the cyclical nature of crime. It shows how desperation and power imbalances can shape lives beyond one’s control.

Moral dilemmas and redemption weave through the story, symbolized by an abandoned pit bull. More than just a subplot, the dog represents vulnerability, loyalty, and second chances. Hardy’s relationship with the animal mirrors his own internal conflict—a man searching for meaning and connection in an unforgiving environment. The themes of power and corruption become clear through James Gandolfini’s final role. He portrays the fading remnants of mob influence. The film subtly examines how old power structures weaken. New ones emerge in unexpected ways. The film raises questions about who truly holds authority. Is it those who enforce brute strength or those who quietly manipulate from the shadows?

Justice and survival are tightly connected. The slow-burn tension builds and forces the audience to confront the blurred lines between right and wrong. The film avoids easy answers, compelling viewers to reflect on the complexities of morality in an uncertain world. Atmospheric and absorbing, The Drop offers more than just crime. It is a meditation on human nature. The film explores resilience and the ethical challenges people face when caught between forces beyond their control. Whether one watches for Hardy’s unforgettable performance or its deeper themes, this is a film that you remember.

🗓️ Friday, 16th May

Kate Bush at the BBC (BBC Four, 10:00 PM)
A compilation of performances that chart Kate Bush’s singular artistic evolution. From wide-eyed theatricality to minimalist mysticism, the BBC archive offers a rare view of her stages of transformation.

Whether it’s “Wuthering Heights” or “Running Up That Hill,” Bush performs with total commitment and emotional intelligence. Her voice alone is an instrument of daring expression.

For fans and newcomers alike, this programme captures the spirit of an artist who has never played by the rules. Endlessly compelling.

Bodies Bodies Bodies (BBC One, 11:30 PM, 2022) ★★★★☆
Online personas are curated in this world. Here, self-awareness collides with self-obsession. Bodies Bodies Bodies offers a razor-sharp dissection of modern friendships and privilege. It explores the fragile trust that holds them together. Set against the chaotic backdrop of a raging hurricane, a group of affluent young friends gather in isolation. They are seeking thrills and validation through a party game. This game quickly unravels into something far more sinister.

Halina Reijn’s direction imbues the film with a neon-drenched aesthetic. This mirrors the performative nature of its characters. Every interaction is a performance. Every emotion is exaggerated for greatest effect. Paranoia is increasing, and alliances are fracturing. The film exposes how digital spaces shape real-life relationships. These spaces amplify insecurities and erode genuine connection. In their desperate attempts to define truth and assign blame, the characters inadvertently reveal the contradictions within their own self-perception. They are deeply vulnerable. They are also aggressively self-serving.

Darkly comedic yet eerily prescient, Bodies Bodies Bodies goes beyond the typical whodunnit structure. It weaves in biting commentary on the very culture its characters embody. It turns the lens inward. It forces the audience to confront their own complicity in the spectacle. What remains is something far more chilling than a traditional slasher. It’s the realization that trust, sincerity, and identity are increasingly blurred in an age of curated narratives. A perfect late-night watch for anyone willing to confront the reflections lurking in the shadows.

🌐 Streaming Picks

Bet (Netflix, from Thursday, 15th May) ★★★★★
A high-stakes thriller set in an elite boarding school where underground gambling dictates the social hierarchy, Bet follows the arrival of Yumeko, a mysterious transfer student whose fearless approach to risk-taking disrupts the status quo. As she challenges the powerful Student Council, her secret quest for revenge threatens to unravel the school’s carefully controlled system.

With a sharp script and electrifying performances, Bet combines psychological tension with dazzling games of chance. Fortunes rise and fall in an instant. The series captures the intoxicating thrill of high-stakes wagers, weaving in themes of power, manipulation, and obsession. Every gamble is more than just a game—it’s a battle for dominance, survival, and truth.

A gripping adaptation of the acclaimed manga Kakegurui, Bet delivers a stylish, adrenaline-fueled ride that keeps viewers on edge.

The writing is tight, the direction tense, and the performances haunting. There are no easy outs, only the heavy cost of denial and compulsive behaviour.

Bet is a dark mirror to modern anxieties about risk, control, and technology. One of the most gripping dramas of the year so far.

Sunset Grove (Walter Presents, Channel 4 Streaming, from Friday, 16th May) ★★★★☆
In a Finnish retirement community, a trio of elderly women find a suspicious death. They decide to investigate. What follows is part murder mystery, part black comedy, and entirely delightful.

The series has fun with genre tropes while never mocking its protagonists. The charm lies in the chemistry between the leads and the show’s surprisingly sharp social commentary.

If you liked Only Murders in the Building, this is your next fix—but with more knitting and less pretence.

Murderbot (Apple TV+, from Friday, 16th May) ★★★★★
Based on the acclaimed novellas by Martha Wells, this series follows a rogue android who hacks its own governing protocols. Equal parts security unit and soap opera addict, Murderbot is one of sci-fi’s freshest antiheroes.

The show blends action with philosophical questions about autonomy, humanity, and identity. And it’s funny—genuinely, dryly funny.

It’s rare for sci-fi to be this smart and this much fun. Murderbot could be Apple’s next breakout hit.

Culture Vulture is published weekly. Listings and commentary are by Pat Harrington. Music selections are by Tim Bragg. We aim to inspire cultural curiosity. We highlight the best of film and television. We offer thoughtful context for our changing times. Longer reviews of some of the films and programmes featured are often available on the Counter Culture website. Check some out, and till next week, stay curious!

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Culture Vulture Picks: 12th–18th April 2025

April 11, 2025 at 8:03 pm · Filed under Culture Vulture, Film & DVD Reviews ·Tagged , , , , , , ,

Selections and commentary by Pat Harrington | Music by Tim Bragg

As spring air stirs this week’s cultural offerings invite reflection, revelation — and the occasional revolution. Television and streaming cover a wide range of genres, from sci-fi and ska to true crime and torch songs. They deliver stories that challenge, charm, and cut deep.

This week’s guide is curated by Pat Harrington. Music is provided by Tim Bragg. It picks out standout offerings across British TV and streaming platforms from an alternative viewpoint. You might be settling in with a brew. Maybe you’re catching up on-demand. There’s something here for the curious. It’s perfect for the bold and the discerning.

This week’s top highlights:

  • Doctor Who returns with a stylish regeneration and a fresh Doctor.
  • Ute Lemper resurrects Weimar Berlin in an unforgettable late-night cabaret.
  • The Hunt delivers taut moral suspense in one of the week’s most powerful film broadcasts.

Saturday, 12th April

Doctor Who – Series 1, Episode 1: The Robot Revolution, 6:50 PM, BBC One
🌟 Highlight
In this thrilling opener, Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor steps fully into his role. The Doctor does so with a captivating blend of charm and boldness. This embodies the essence of renewal that defines Doctor Who. The episode delves into the ever-relevant theme of AI and its potential consequences when it turns against humanity. A rogue AI uprising is the central conflict. It delivers an engaging mix of suspense. The action keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

The Doctor’s unique approach to problem-solving is highlighted as he faces the daunting task of halting the rebellion. Gatwa’s portrayal introduces an energetic twist to the character. This modern interpretation makes this episode a perfect entry point for newcomers. It also delights long-time fans. The visual effects, clever dialogue, and emotional undercurrents guarantee this reboot feels fresh yet connected to the show’s legacy.

Expect moments of humor, heart, and intense drama as the Doctor navigates moral dilemmas and technological dangers. The supporting cast and their interactions with Gatwa’s Doctor add depth and color. This sets the stage for a promising season. The season will be filled with adventures that challenge conventions and push boundaries.

The Queen and the Traitor: A Great British Scandal, 7:45 PM, BBC One
Anthony Blunt’s story defies expectations. It reveals the extraordinary secrets that can lie hidden in plain sight. This drama sheds light on a man who was far more than he appeared to be. On the surface, Blunt was an esteemed art historian and a trusted advisor. He was deeply embedded in the royal household. He rubbed shoulders with the most influential people in Britain, including Queen Elizabeth II herself. His reputation was one of intellect, sophistication, and loyalty.

But what makes this tale so compelling is the stark contradiction at its heart. Behind this polished facade was a man living a double life. He was working covertly as a Soviet spy during the tense and dangerous era of the Cold War. The drama examines the choices that led Blunt to betray his country. It also reveals the sheer audacity it took to keep his dual identities. It examines themes of loyalty, betrayal, and moral complexity. The story reveals that even those in the most privileged and trusted positions are capable of unimaginable deception.

This portrayal delves into Blunt’s actions. It also examines the ripple effects of his treachery. This exposure highlights the fragile balance between trust and power within institutions like the monarchy. It is a haunting reflection on the lengths people will go to for ideology, ambition, or survival. Such decisions can have a devastating impact on those around them. This drama goes beyond a simple historical recount. It captures the human drama and ethical dilemmas at the core of one of Britain’s most shocking betrayals.

Made in Britain, 8:35 PM, ITV4
Celebrating the grit, innovation, and legacy of the UK’s manufacturing industries. From factories to family businesses, this documentary series spotlights unsung heroes of British industry.

Sunday, 13th April

Walter Presents: Cold Summer, 12:35 AM, Channel 4
Cold Summer is a gripping Italian crime thriller. It is set in Bari during the early 1990s. The story begins with the devastating arson of the Petruzzelli Theatre. This act disrupts the fragile peace among the city’s criminal clans. The son of mafia boss Nicola Grimaldi is kidnapped. Alessio Boni plays Nicola Grimaldi. Despite a ransom being paid, the kidnapped son is later found murdered. This event causes the delicate balance of power to collapse. It plunges the city into chaos.

The narrative follows Pietro Fenoglio. He is portrayed by Paolo Sassanelli and is a carabinieri officer navigating the murky world of mafia feuds and corruption. The prime suspect is Vito Lopez, a former confidant of Grimaldi. He surrenders to the authorities and offers to become a state’s witness. While confessing to many crimes, Lopez denies involvement in the boy’s murder. As Fenoglio and his partner Pellecchia dig deeper, they uncover a shocking truth. The murder was committed by two of their own colleagues. This revelation forces Fenoglio to confront the ethical dilemma of bringing justice against fellow officers. It challenges his loyalty to the uniform. It also tests his commitment to the law.

The series is a tense exploration of betrayal, power, and the fight for justice. It is set in a city teetering on the edge of corruption. The moody atmosphere and morally complex characters make it a compelling watch. It offers a poignant reflection on the cost of loyalty. It also reflects the pursuit of truth in a world where trust is scarce.

Willard White Remembers Porgy and Bess, 8:35 PM, BBC Four
Opera legend Willard White reflects on his iconic role. This role was in Gershwin’s landmark work. He offers a poignant exploration of race. The reflection includes legacy and artistic endurance.

George Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess, 8:50 PM, BBC Four
This is a lavish production of the American opera classic. It blends jazz, gospel, and folk. The story told is one of love and struggle in the Deep South.

Ute Lemper Sings Kurt Weill. Tune in at 11:55 PM on BBC Four.
🌟 Highlight
Lemper brings Kurt Weill’s music to life in a way that feels both timeless and deeply personal. Lemper is known as one of the most accomplished interpreters of Weill’s work. She immerses her audience in a rich tapestry of sound and emotion. She channels the spirit of artistic rebellion that defined Weill’s legacy. Through her distinctive voice and theatrical presence, she transforms each song into a vivid story. She gives classics like Surabaya Johnny, Alabama Song, and Pirate Jenny an intensity. The songs have a nuance that captivates listeners.

This late-night BBC Four special creates an intimate atmosphere where music and storytelling blend seamlessly. Lemper’s delivery blurs the boundaries between a traditional performance and something far more dynamic. It offers a unique experience. This feels as much like an emotional journey as it does a concert. The themes of love, heartbreak, and political defiance ripple through each note. These themes remind us of the power of art to challenge the status quo. Art speaks to the soul.

This performance is for anyone with a passion for music that transcends the ordinary. It is also for those drawn to the evocative allure of cabaret noir. Finally, it is for those who simply wish to be moved. This event stands as an unmissable celebration of Kurt Weill’s enduring genius. It’s less about nostalgia and more about the raw relevance of these songs in today’s world.

Monday, 14th April

Capricorn One (1977), 2:35 PM, Legend
This gripping thriller takes viewers on a journey. It delves into the murky world of conspiracy theories. It also explores government deception. The film imagines a scenario where NASA fakes a manned mission to Mars. They are driven by the pressure to maintain funding. The plot also concerns maintaining public trust.

Elliott Gould stars as a determined journalist. James Brolin plays one of the astronauts caught in the web of lies. The story unfolds with nail-biting tension. The government forces the astronauts to participate in the hoax. They soon find themselves hunted by government agents who are determined to keep the truth buried. The film captures the paranoia and distrust of the Cold War era. It blends suspense, drama, and a touch of sci-fi to create a thought-provoking narrative.

With its sharp commentary on power and ethics, Capricorn One remains a classic. It challenges viewers to question the narratives presented by authority. Will you be watching this retro gem? It’s a fascinating piece of cinema history!

The Last of Us, 9:00 PM, Sky Atlantic
Post-apocalyptic storytelling at its finest. The much-anticipated return continues Joel and Ellie’s harrowing journey with haunting visuals and gut-punch emotional stakes. Season two of The Last of Us continues Joel and Ellie’s story. They navigate a world devastated by a fungal pandemic. The series is based on the acclaimed 2013 video game. It has redefined what adaptations can achieve. This proves that gaming narratives can translate into compelling television. The first season was a groundbreaking success. It earned 24 Emmy nominations. It won six awards, including ones for its exceptional storytelling and performances.

The show’s ability to capture the emotional depth and complexity of the game is impressive. It expands the narrative and has set a new standard for adaptations. Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey deliver standout performances as Joel and Ellie, bringing authenticity and nuance to their roles. Their chemistry remains the heart of the series, drawing viewers into the characters’ struggles and triumphs.

By staying true to the essence of the game, The Last of Us has reached both fans and newcomers. Thoughtful adjustments for television were made. Its success has paved the way for future projects. This success shows that gaming stories can thrive in the world of prestige television. These stories need to be handled with care and creativity. Season two promises to build on this legacy. It will offer more of the gripping drama.

Tuesday, 15th April

Tombstone (1993), 9:00 PM, Film4

Tombstone (1993) is a Western that stands out for its sharp storytelling and unforgettable performances. Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer lead the cast. They bring depth and charisma to their roles as Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday. The film captures the tension and drama of the Old West. It weaves a tale of loyalty, revenge, and the struggle for justice.

Kilmer’s portrayal of Doc Holliday is particularly remarkable. He imbues the character with a mix of wit, vulnerability, and defiance. This makes Holliday both a tragic figure and a force to be reckoned with. He delivers iconic lines like “I’m your huckleberry.” This has cemented his performance as one of the most memorable in the genre. Russell’s Wyatt Earp, meanwhile, is a compelling blend of determination and moral complexity, anchoring the story with his presence.

The film’s stylized approach to the Western genre is clear in its striking cinematography and intense action sequences. From the gunfight at the O.K. Corral, viewers experience the simmering confrontations between lawmen and outlaws. Tombstone keeps viewers engaged with its dynamic pacing. The dramatic stakes hold their attention. The supporting cast is impressive. Sam Elliott and Bill Paxton play Earp’s brothers. They add layers to the narrative and create a rich tapestry of characters and conflicts.

Beyond the action, Tombstone is a film that resonates not just as a thrilling Western. It is also a story about the human condition in a time of chaos and change.

Wednesday, 16th April

Pauline Black: A Two-Tone Story, 9:00 PM, Sky Arts
Pauline Black’s story is about resilience, creativity, and defiance. This documentary captures her journey with vivid detail. As the frontwoman of The Selecter, she became a defining voice of the Two-Tone movement. This genre fused ska, punk, and reggae to challenge societal norms. It also confronted issues of race and identity. The documentary delves into her personal journey. It explores the challenges she faced as a woman of color in the male-dominated music industry. It also reviews the political landscape of the time.

Through interviews, archival footage, and performances, the film paints a portrait of Black not just as a musician. She was a trailblazer who used her platform to advocate for equality and justice. It highlights her ability to channel her experiences into powerful lyrics and performances that resonated with audiences and inspired change. The rebellious spirit of Two-Tone is woven throughout, celebrating its impact on music and culture.

This documentary is more than a retrospective. It celebrates Pauline Black’s enduring legacy and the movement she helped shape.

Re:cord On… The Specials: A Message to You, 10:50 PM, Sky Arts
A loving exploration of the Specials’ enduring anthem. The show blends personal stories with cultural context. It is a perfectly ska-soaked time capsule.

Hideous Kinky (1998), 11:30 PM, BBC Two
This evocative drama is based on Esther Freud’s semi-autobiographical novel. It stars Kate Winslet as Julia. She is a young English mother seeking a fresh start in 1970s Morocco. Accompanied by her two daughters, Julia embarks on a journey of self-discovery. She grapples with the challenges of raising children. At the same time, she chases spiritual enlightenment and personal freedom.

The film is set against the vibrant and chaotic backdrop of Marrakech. It captures the essence of a time and place where tradition and modernity collide. Winslet delivers a nuanced performance. She portrays Julia’s vulnerability and determination. Julia navigates relationships, cultural differences, and the search for meaning in a world far removed from her own.

With its dreamy cinematography, warm tones, and moments of quiet introspection, Hideous Kinky offers a gently strange journey. It provides a deeply human exploration of identity, love, and the pursuit of happiness. It’s a film that lingers in the mind, inviting viewers to consider their own journeys.

Targeted: Lebanon’s Deadliest Attack, 11:00 PM, Channel 4
This powerful documentary investigates a devastating bombing in Beirut. It unpacks the international entanglements that led to tragedy. A vital piece of longform journalism.

Thursday, 17th April

Wonderland: Science Fiction in the Atomic Age – Episode 3 of 4. Airing at 8:00 PM on BBC Four.
The series explores how sci-fi channeled 20th-century nuclear fears into tales of aliens, dystopias, and human hubris. A stylish trip through speculative imagination.

Love My Face, Episode 1 at 10:00 PM. Episode 2 is at 11:05 PM on BBC Two.
This deeply personal series follows people navigating facial difference and the decision to undergo surgery. A moving challenge to societal ideas of beauty and visibility.

The Hunt (2019), 10:50 PM, Film4
🌟 Highlight
The Hunt (2019) is a sharp and provocative thriller. It delves into the divisions of modern society. Directed by Craig Zobel, the story follows a group of strangers. They wake up in an unfamiliar location. They quickly realize they are being hunted by a group of wealthy elites. The film plays with tension, humor, and violence as it navigates the chaos that unfolds.

At the center of the narrative is Betty Gilpin as Crystal. She is one of the captives who refuses to be a victim. Gilpin’s performance is magnetic—she brings intelligence, wit, and unrelenting toughness to a character who consistently outsmarts her captors. Her portrayal ensures that Crystal’s journey is both engaging and deeply satisfying to watch.

The film doesn’t shy away from its social commentary. It takes aim at political extremes with a dark and biting sense of humor. The film’s satirical approach may not resonate with everyone. Yet, it successfully holds a mirror up to the absurdities and hypocrisies of our times. The pacing is relentless. It keeps viewers gripped from start to finish. The action sequences are executed with precision and energy.

Visually, the film juxtaposes its idyllic setting with the brutal events taking place, adding an unsettling layer to the story. The Hunt is bold and unflinching. It challenges audiences to think about the consequences of prejudice. It examines mob mentality and the ways we engage with opposing views. You might see it as a sharp critique. Or you might view it simply as an intense thriller. Either way, it leaves a lot to think about long after the credits roll.

Friday, 18th April (Good Friday)

King of Kings (1961), 8:15 AM, BBC Two
This Technicolor epic captures the grandeur and solemnity of its subject matter. It offers a richly detailed depiction of key moments from the New Testament. The film begins with the birth of Jesus. It then portrays his ministry. The climax focuses on his crucifixion and resurrection. This narrative is both reverent and cinematic.

The sweeping visuals are enhanced by Miklós Rózsa’s powerful score. His music adds emotional depth. It also brings a sense of majesty to the story. The music underscores the film’s most poignant moments. It enhances the film’s ability to resonate with audiences on a spiritual level. It also touches them on an emotional level. Jeffrey Hunter’s portrayal of Jesus brings a quiet intensity to the role. The supporting cast adds layers of complexity to the historical and personal dynamics at play.

This retelling is not just a recounting of biblical events but an exploration of themes like faith, sacrifice, and redemption. The film’s meticulous attention to detail stands out. Its thoughtful direction ensures it continues to hold significance, particularly during the Easter season. Whether you’re drawn to its artistic achievements or its spiritual message,

The Rolling Stones: Live at the Fonda, 9:25 PM, BBC Four
Filmed in 2015, this intimate club show was recorded. It proves the Stones still swagger and seduce. An electrifying setlist in a small venue setting.

Mick Jagger: My Life as a Rolling Stone, 10:50 PM, BBC Four
From rock god to cultural icon. This show dissects the myth. It reveals the man behind the mic – and the moves.

Keith Richards: My Life as a Rolling Stone, 11:50 PM, BBC Four
A tribute to the Stones’ riff king. He is a bluesman, outlaw, and survivor. A love letter to the world’s most charismatic guitarist.

and finally, Streaming – Netflix

Behind the Curtain: Stranger Things – The First Shadow. It is available from Tuesday, 15th April.
The Stranger Things universe gets theatrical in this lavish West End origin story. Set in 1950s Hawkins, it’s a moody, sharply-written prequel packed with nostalgia and stage magic.

Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror. It is available from Friday, 18th April.
🌟 Highlight
A chilling, in-depth documentary examining the 1995 bombing, its perpetrators, and the rise of homegrown extremism. Sobering, necessary, and disturbingly relevant. Essential viewing in an age where history repeats — and warns.

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Culture Vulture 5th to the 11th of April 2025

April 4, 2025 at 8:47 pm · Filed under Culture Vulture, Film & DVD Reviews, TV Shows ·Tagged , ,

3,062 words, 16 minutes read time.

Selections and writing by Pat Harrington | Music by Tim Bragg

This week’s curated list spans eras, genres, and continents. Each title is chosen for its resonance with the social, political, and emotional undercurrents shaping our world today. The quiet radicalism of Hobson’s Choice is thought-provoking. The relentless pressures laid bare in Boiling Point are compelling. The films and programmes here are both stimulating and enjoyable.

We move from the richly nostalgic surfaces of Hello, Dolly! to the dystopian disorientation of Total Recall, where the illusion of choice is anything but harmless. Meanwhile, Dead Calm reveals psychological fractures under extreme conditions. Donnie Brasco also highlights these fractures. They invite us to question appearances, allegiances, and identity itself.

Elsewhere, stories like The Cruel Sea and Radical remind us of the human toll of war and inequality. Documentaries such as Are You Autistic? and Jack the Ripper: Written in Blood challenge cultural assumptions and offer fresh perspectives on visibility, justice, and memory.

Every programme has been selected by Pat Harrington with an eye for cultural depth and contemporary relevance. The accompanying music is composed and performed by Tim Bragg.

The films, series, and documentaries featured this week invite us to look more closely. We are encouraged to examine not just the screen but the systems and stories that shape our lives. This is culture not as escape, but as a mirror, a question, and, sometimes, a quiet call to action.

Saturday 5th April 2025

Hobson’s Choice (1954)
Talking Pictures, 15:35
David Lean’s adaptation of Harold Brighouse’s play offers a nuanced look at class and gender. It examines self-determination in Victorian England. The film examines how people were treated based on their class and gender. It highlights individuals’ struggle for self-determination. Charles Laughton plays Henry Hobson, a tyrannical boot shop owner whose eldest daughter, Maggie, resists patriarchal control with quiet determination. Through the lens of familial rebellion and unlikely romance, the film challenges the era’s rigid social hierarchy and gender roles. Hobson’s decline is both comic and tragic. It reflects on the cost of dominance and the rise of a new kind of working-class confidence. The understated triumph of Maggie offers a quietly radical vision of female agency.

Hello, Dolly! (1969)
BBC Two, 15:15
Gene Kelly’s big-screen musical is lavish and nostalgic. It evokes the golden age of Broadway. It offers escapism during a time of great cultural upheaval. Barbra Streisand’s Dolly Levi is a force of nature—manipulative, glamorous, but undeniably empowering. Beneath its sparkle lies an undercurrent of social longing. Women maneuver for independence. Men grapple with loneliness. Working people are caught in the dance of capitalism. The film’s grandeur sometimes obscures its quieter commentaries on matchmaking as social strategy and self-invention as survival.

Total Recall (1990)
5Action, 21:00
Paul Verhoeven’s sci-fi spectacle, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, melds mind-bending narrative with biting political satire. The film is set in a dystopian future where memories can be manufactured. It critiques corporate colonisation, surveillance, and the illusion of choice. At its core is a meditation on identity. It explores what it means to ‘remember’ ourselves. It questions whether rebellion can be authentic when even memories are suspect. Beneath the explosions and action is a deep disquiet about class oppression and capitalist control.

Dead Calm (1989)
5Star, 23:35
This tense thriller is set on the open sea. It dissects the psychological effects of trauma and control. Nicole Kidman’s portrayal of a grieving woman thrust into a life-or-death struggle is layered with strength and vulnerability. Sam Neill and Billy Zane round out a trio exploring masculinity, guilt, and manipulation. The isolation of the yacht setting magnifies the film’s exploration of power dynamics and survival instinct. As the characters navigate physical and emotional currents, Dead Calm questions the façade of civility. It also examines the latent violence in relationships.

Sunday 6th April 2025

The Cruel Sea (1953)
BBC Two, 10:30
This British wartime drama navigates the perilous waters of the Atlantic. It also explores the emotional landscapes of those caught in the theatre of war. Charles Frend directed it. The film is based on Nicholas Monsarrat’s novel. It focuses on the lives of Royal Navy officers during the Battle of the Atlantic. With understated but powerful performances, the film reflects on the psychological cost of prolonged conflict. Themes of duty, trauma, and leadership emerge through moments of moral ambiguity and sacrifice. The Cruel Sea is not just a tale of naval endurance. It is a study of the fragility of conscience amid the dehumanising effects of war.

The Lady Vanishes (1938)
BBC Two, 12:30
Alfred Hitchcock’s early masterpiece weaves political paranoia with biting social commentary. During a European train journey, an elderly woman disappears. A young traveller suspects foul play. She then finds herself gaslit by those around her. Beyond its engaging mystery, the film critiques British complacency in the face of rising fascism in Europe. The ‘vanishing lady’ becomes a metaphor for ignored truths and selective blindness. With sharp wit and moral tension, Hitchcock reveals how fear can shape perception. Denial influences geopolitical fate too.

Boiling Point (2021)
Channel 4, 22:55
Filmed in an uninterrupted single take. Boiling Point immerses viewers in the unrelenting chaos of a high-end London kitchen. It exposes the precariousness and fragility of modern working lives. At its heart, the film is a searing dissection of labour, race, class, and power dynamics. It portrays the hospitality industry as a microcosm of larger societal struggles.

Stephen Graham delivers a powerful performance as the beleaguered head chef. He leads an ensemble cast. The cast reflects the intersectionality of identities in a multicultural, hierarchical workplace. The hierarchical structure of the kitchen serves as an allegory for the broader class system. Authority figures wield power. Workers bear the brunt of stress, exploitation, and alienation. The tensions simmer beneath the surface. Conflicts between front-of-house and kitchen staff, and between chefs and management, mirror societal divisions. These divisions may occur along lines of socioeconomic class or race.

Social and racial inequalities become palpable throughout the story. Characters from marginalized backgrounds face the physical and emotional toll of their work. They also face the added burden of systemic discrimination. The film critiques these overlapping oppressions. They often stay unseen. The industry masks them with a facade of polished professionalism and customer service.

Boiling Point delves into the consequences of capitalism’s relentless drive for productivity and perfection. The demanding pace of the kitchen, coupled with the lack of meaningful support for workers, epitomizes burnout culture. Employees are pushed to their limits in the pursuit of profit, their humanity often sacrificed for efficiency. This pressure cooker environment symbolizes the broader exploitation of labour under neoliberal systems. Workers are treated as expendable resources in these systems.

The film forces viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about the hospitality industry’s darker sides. Addiction, harassment, and mental health crises are woven into the narrative. It raises important questions about individual responsibility versus systemic change. Should we blame toxic managers? Or does the culture of overwork demand a complete rethinking of workplace norms? The ethical ambiguities extend to the audience as well. They must grapple with their own complicity as consumers in sustaining these exploitative systems.

The use of real-time storytelling heightens the film’s intensity, allowing no reprieve from the mounting stress and emotional turmoil. This relentless pacing mirrors the lived experiences of service workers. For them, every shift can feel like a desperate fight for survival. It is both a tribute to their resilience and a critique of the industries that place profit above human dignity.

Boiling Point is not just a film about a kitchen. It serves as a lens. Through this lens, we can examine the fractures in our own societies. The film turns the kitchen into a microcosmic symbol of modern precarity. It transcends its setting and offers a bold, quietly radical statement on the urgent need for systemic change. It’s a work of social realism. It leaves audiences with a potent blend of empathy, outrage, and reflection.

Monday 7th April 2025

Donnie Brasco (1997)
Great Movies, 21:00
Mike Newell’s mob drama is a haunting portrayal of blurred identities and ethical compromise. It is based on a true story. The film follows undercover FBI agent Joe Pistone (Johnny Depp). He infiltrates the mafia under the alias Donnie Brasco. What begins as professional deception gradually turns into emotional entanglement, particularly with Al Pacino’s aging hitman, Lefty. The film explores the corrosive effects of undercover work, raising questions about loyalty, masculinity, and the emotional cost of policing. It’s a compelling reflection on how institutions shape—and sometimes erode—the identities of those who serve them.

Tuesday 8th April 2025

Are You Autistic?
Channel 5, 19:00
This thoughtful documentary explores the lived experiences of autistic individuals in the UK. It challenges outdated stereotypes. Combining personal testimonies, expert analysis, and social critique, it provides an inclusive platform for neurodiverse voices. The programme raises questions about diagnosis disparities, especially among women. It also highlights issues for people of colour. It unpacks how structural biases affect access to support. The documentary does not portray autism as something to be ‘solved.’ Instead, it views neurodiversity as an essential aspect of the human spectrum. It advocates for dignity, autonomy, and systemic change.

Jack the Ripper: Written in Blood
Sky History, 21:00
This crime documentary revisits the infamous Whitechapel murders. It does so through a literary lens. It explores how the Ripper case influenced writers. It also examines the impact on the true crime genre. It reflects on Victorian anxieties about gender, urbanisation, and the ‘unknown other.’ The programme critiques our cultural obsession with violent men by framing the investigation around narrative and myth. It also critiques the commodification of female suffering. It subtly asks whether retelling these crimes can illuminate justice—or perpetuate a morbid fascination that overshadows the victims.

Lord of War (2005)
Legend, 21:00
Andrew Niccol’s scathing satire tracks the rise and fall of an international arms dealer (Nicolas Cage). It shows how he exploits conflict for profit. With dark wit and razor-sharp commentary, the film dismantles the moral justifications of the global arms trade. It offers a critique of state complicity, global inequality, and the hypocrisy of Western interventionism. Cage’s charismatic yet hollow anti-hero becomes a symbol of late-stage capitalism, where war is commodified and ethics are expendable. The result is a film that’s as provocative as it is politically urgent.

Glass (2019)
Film4, 22:50
M. Night Shyamalan’s psychological thriller blends superhero mythos with questions of institutional power and personal identity. Three individuals, each with extraordinary abilities, are confined to a psychiatric facility. The film critiques how society labels those who deviate from the norm. It also examines how society suppresses them. Beneath its genre stylings is a meditation on belief, stigma, and the mechanisms of control. Glass asks if embracing difference is an act of rebellion or if it’s a delusion. It questions whether ‘truth’ is defined by those who hold power.

Wednesday 9th April 2025

The Secret Genius of Modern Life (2/5)
BBC Two, 20:00
This engaging tech documentary series continues with its second episode. It unpacks the complex systems behind everyday innovations. Host Hannah Fry brings a socially conscious lens to the tools and technologies that quietly shape our lives. Episode two dissects a seemingly mundane object to reveal global networks of data, infrastructure, and corporate power. With clarity and charm, Fry makes the invisible visible. She demonstrates how our modern conveniences are embedded in wider narratives of surveillance, labour, and control.

Stillwater (2021)
Film4, 21:00
A subtle, character-driven thriller, Stillwater follows an American father (Matt Damon). He travels to France to help his daughter. She is imprisoned for a murder she claims she didn’t commit. What begins as a story of rescue. It evolves into a meditation on cultural difference. It also explores personal redemption and the limitations of good intentions. The film critiques American exceptionalism and explores the quiet complexities of guilt, justice, and reconciliation across borders. Damon’s restrained performance adds depth to a man struggling to do right in a world he barely understands.

Thursday 10th April 2025

Ron’s Gone Wrong (2021)
Film4, 11:00
In this animated sci-fi comedy, a misfit boy befriends a malfunctioning robot. This friendship sparks a heartfelt journey through the digital age’s pitfalls and promises. Underneath the humour and charm lies a sharp critique of tech monopolies, data harvesting, and algorithmic conformity. The film champions human connection over curated perfection, subtly encouraging young audiences to question the values of online life. Ron’s Gone Wrong succeeds not just as family entertainment, but as a parable about friendship, autonomy, and resisting manufactured identities.

Heavens Above! (1963)
Talking Pictures, 11:20
Peter Sellers stars in this satirical comedy as a well-meaning clergyman. He tries to put Christian ethics into practice. This causes horror to the British establishment. What unfolds is a sharp, occasionally surreal takedown of class privilege, institutional hypocrisy, and the commodification of charity. The film explores what happens when ideals clash with entrenched power, and whether genuine compassion can survive a capitalist system. It remains a timely reminder of how radical kindness can be in a world bent on maintaining hierarchy.

Radical (2023)
Film4, 23:40
Based on a true story, Radical portrays a teacher’s transformative impact. The setting is a classroom in one of Mexico’s most under-resourced schools. The film resists sentimentalism, instead presenting a grounded narrative about the liberating potential of education. It explores structural inequality, youth aspiration, and the quiet heroism of educators in forgotten places. With nuance, Radical reminds viewers that change often begins not with grand gestures. It begins with everyday courage and belief in human potential.

Friday 11th April 2025

The Duchess
BBC One, 22:40
This period drama is inspired by the life of Georgiana Cavendish. It illuminates the constraints placed on aristocratic women in 18th-century England. Keira Knightley delivers a compelling performance as a woman whose public charm masks private anguish within a loveless political marriage. The film critiques patriarchal norms. It draws parallels to contemporary debates about agency, reputation, and the double standards applied to women in power. Visually sumptuous, it blends historical drama with feminist undercurrents.

Licorice Pizza (2021)
BBC Two, 23:05
Paul Thomas Anderson’s coming-of-age film captures 1970s California. It tells the story of the odd-couple friendship between a teenage boy and a 20-something woman. Beneath its nostalgia and loose plotting lies a sensitive meditation on youth, consent, and the elasticity of identity. The film’s quirky tone hides deeper thoughts on gender dynamics. It shows how personal growth can mirror broader social change. Its ambiguity invites reflection rather than judgement, asking viewers to sit with discomfort and charm in equal measure.

Mona Lisa (1986)
Film4, 23:20
Neil Jordan’s noir-inflected drama examines the underworld of 1980s London. It is seen through the eyes of an ex-con played by Bob Hoskins. He becomes a chauffeur for a high-class sex worker. As their relationship deepens, the film peels back layers of violence, exploitation, and longing. Mona Lisa confronts questions of power, class, and moral compromise, offering no easy redemption. With atmospheric direction and standout performances, it remains a searing character study. The film explores damaged souls who are seeking dignity in an indifferent world.

Shirley Bassey Night – Friday 11th April 2025
BBC Four, from 21:10:

Shirley Bassey at the BBC Volume 2
21:10
A glittering showcase of Bassey’s televised performances. This compilation celebrates her vocal dynamism and enduring appeal. Moving through decades of BBC archives, it reveals the evolution of her musical style. It also shows the cultural impact of her stage presence. In an industry often dismissive of women’s longevity, Bassey’s poise and power defy expectation.

Shirley Bassey at the Royal Albert Hall, 1974
22:40
She was captured at the height of her international fame. This performance is more than just a concert. It’s a statement of grandeur, identity, and artistic command. Her voice resonates not only through the hall, but also across generations as a symbol of resilience and star power.

Imagine – Dame Shirley Bassey: The Girl from Tiger Bay
23:25
This documentary explores the creation of Bassey’s 2009 album. The Performance was a significant project. It also provides a portrait of an artist who continually reinvents herself. Bassey started from working-class roots in Cardiff. She rose to international stardom. Her journey is extraordinary. It is also emblematic of wider struggles around race, gender, and belonging in British cultural life.

Dame Shirley Bassey: Electric Proms 2009
00:20 (Saturday)
This stylish live session showcases Bassey with a full orchestra. She performs both classics and new material. The Electric Proms highlight her versatility and continued relevance, defying the industry’s ageist expectations and celebrating her artistic evolution.

Shirley Bassey at the BBC
01:20 (Saturday)
This collection is retrospective and complements the earlier volume. This hour of classic BBC performances captures Bassey in a variety of moods. The performances span different eras. It’s a fitting close to the night—both nostalgic and empowering, reminding us why she remains a national icon.

and finally, Streaming Choices – from Friday 11th April 2025

The Gardener (Series, 6 episodes)
Netflix
This series is visually rich. It explores the quiet tension between nature and nurture. This exploration happens through the lens of six distinctive garden landscapes. Each episode subtly links the act of cultivation to wider social and psychological themes—grief, healing, resistance, and hope. The Gardener invites reflection on climate anxiety, care work, and the fragile beauty of ecosystems. It offers more than aesthetic pleasure. It’s a meditative, political act.

The Handmaid’s Tale (Seasons 1–5)
Channel 4 Streaming
This acclaimed series is based on Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel. It traces a totalitarian regime. In this regime, women’s rights have been stripped away. Across five seasons, it interrogates the intersections of gender, power, and resistance. What begins as an allegory becomes an evolving commentary on contemporary authoritarianism, reproductive justice, and the psychology of survival. The series is harrowing yet defiant—a warning and a rallying cry.

Walter Presents: Cold Summer (Season 1)
Channel 4 Streaming
This drama is set in the wake of the Balkan conflicts. It is a slow-burning story. It follows a former soldier navigating a fractured homeland. With stark cinematography and restrained performances, Cold Summer explores guilt, memory, and the search for redemption. It avoids sensationalism, focusing instead on the emotional and moral aftermath of war. The series invites viewers to witness the personal cost of history. It also shows the quiet strength needed to live in its shadow.

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Culture Vulture – Week Beginning Saturday 29th March 2025

March 28, 2025 at 1:55 pm · Filed under Culture Vulture, Film & DVD Reviews ·Tagged , , , , ,

Curated by Pat Harrington | Music by Tim Bragg

Welcome to Culture Vulture, your weekly entertainment guide that steps off the beaten path. Here, we celebrate films that challenge, provoke, and offer fresh perspectives on the world we live in. From searing psychological dramas to politically charged thrillers, our picks reflect an alternative, progressive view of culture.

Highlights of the Week

  • Luzzu (2021) – A quiet, powerful reflection on dignity, economic marginalisation, and the moral compromises made under pressure.
  • Smoke Sauna Sisterhood (2023) – An intimate Estonian documentary that champions feminine solidarity and trauma healing through communal ritual.
  • The Guard (2011) – A darkly comic crime drama that satirises authority, critiques colonial hangovers, and confronts ethical decay with razor-sharp wit.

Saturday 29th March 2025

Luzzu (2021)
BBC Two, 00:55
A standout in Maltese cinema, Luzzu follows a traditional fisherman caught between heritage and survival. As his livelihood is threatened by bureaucracy and ecological decay, he’s drawn into the black market. What emerges is a quiet, powerful reflection on dignity, economic marginalisation, and the moral compromises made under pressure.

The Guard (2011) Channel 4, 02:10
John Michael McDonagh’s The Guard is an exceptional piece of cinema that masterfully blends dark comedy with sharp social critique. Released in 2011, this Irish crime drama stars Brendan Gleeson in a career-defining role as Sergeant Gerry Boyle, a maverick cop whose unconventional methods and irreverent humor both confound and delight. The film, which airs on Channel 4 this Saturday at 02:10, is an unmissable gem that showcases McDonagh’s ability to confront complex issues through biting wit and compelling storytelling.

The plot revolves around Boyle’s involvement in a drug trafficking investigation, a case that pairs him with an uptight FBI agent played by Don Cheadle. This unlikely duo forms the backbone of the narrative, offering a fascinating exploration of cultural miscommunication and contrasting moral codes. Boyle’s unfiltered remarks and disregard for political correctness reveal a character whose flaws are as pronounced as his surprising integrity. This interplay drives much of the film’s humor and poignancy, elevating it beyond a standard crime drama.

Through Boyle’s interactions with authority figures, McDonagh critiques the lingering effects of colonialism on Irish society and the ethical decay present in global institutions. Corruption, racism, and exploitation are deftly exposed, making The Guard not just a crime story but a scathing indictment of systemic injustices. Gleeson’s performance captures these nuances, presenting a character who is both a product of his environment and a critique of it.

The film’s humor is one of its most defining features. Gleeson’s dry wit and impeccable timing imbue the narrative with moments of levity that contrast sharply with its darker themes. The writing is razor-sharp, ensuring that every laugh serves a purpose in exposing deeper truths about human nature and societal failings. This balance between comedy and critique is a testament to McDonagh’s skill as a filmmaker.

The rugged beauty of the Irish landscape serves as a backdrop for the gritty realities of the story, creating a striking contrast that underscores the film’s themes. Cinematographer Larry Smith captures both the starkness and the vibrancy of the setting, adding depth to the narrative and enhancing the film’s mood.

The Guard is a brilliant fusion of humour, drama, and social commentary. It challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths while providing entertainment through its clever dialogue and engaging performances. If you haven’t seen it yet, make time to catch this remarkable film—it’s a thought-provoking journey.

Sunday 30th March 2025

Company BBC4 8pm

Stephen Sondheim’s Company is a groundbreaking musical that explores themes of relationships, marriage, and self-discovery. The story follows Robert, a single man living in New York City, as he celebrates his 35th birthday surrounded by his married friends. Through a series of vignettes, Robert interacts with these couples and reflects on the complexities of love, commitment, and bachelorhood.

The musical is notable for its lack of a linear plot, instead presenting snapshots of Robert’s life and his encounters with his friends and girlfriends. These moments delve into the joys and challenges of marriage, the fear of loneliness, and the search for meaning in human connections. Songs like “Being Alive” and “The Ladies Who Lunch” highlight the emotional depth and wit of Sondheim’s lyrics, making Company a timeless exploration of vulnerability and relationships.

This particular production, staged at the Donmar Warehouse and directed by Sam Mendes, brought a fresh and bold interpretation to the musical. Mendes updated the material for a 1990s audience, infusing the show with a contemporary edge while preserving its core themes. The production was critically acclaimed, earning recognition for Mendes’ direction and Adrian Lester’s compelling portrayal of Robert.

Filmed live by the BBC in 1996, this version of Company captures the intimacy and intensity of the Donmar Warehouse’s unique setting. The small, 250-seat theatre allowed for an up-close and personal experience, enhancing the emotional resonance of the performances. This filmed production remains a landmark in musical theatre, showcasing the brilliance of Sondheim’s work and Mendes’ visionary direction.

Adding to the experience, the evening’s programming is preceded at 8:30 PM by Adrian Lester discussing his love for this production and his connection to the role of Robert. Lester’s insights into the character, the musical, and the Donmar staging bring an enriching perspective to this landmark work.

Ultimately, Company, especially in this Donmar Warehouse production, stands as a thought-provoking and humorous look at the pros and cons of marriage, offering insights into the human condition through its clever dialogue and memorable music. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in this remarkable theatrical experience and Adrian Lester’s reflections beforehand—it’s an unmissable journey into Sondheim’s genius and Mendes’ artistry.

Children of Men (2006) BBC One, 22:30
Alfonso Cuarón’s dystopian vision remains hauntingly relevant. Set in a future where humanity faces extinction due to infertility, the film interrogates themes of immigration, authoritarianism, and resistance. Through immersive camerawork and an emotionally resonant narrative, Children of Men becomes a rallying cry for hope and human dignity amidst despair.

The Road (2009) Great! Movies, 01:25
Based on Cormac McCarthy’s novel, this bleak yet tender survival story follows a father and son navigating a post-apocalyptic wasteland. The film explores moral resilience, love, and the instinct to protect amidst collapse. Stark visuals and sparse dialogue amplify its emotional weight, offering a meditation on endurance and ethical boundaries.

Monday 31st March 2025

Disclosure: One More Fix BBC1 9pm

An examination of Scotland’s first monitored drug consumption room. Good or bad? Chris Clements speaks to those on all sides of the argument.

Funny Pages (2022) Film 4, 23:40

Funny Pages, the 2022 coming-of-age drama, delves into the chaotic world of a teenage cartoonist striving to rebel against societal norms. Written and directed by Owen Kline, this sharp and sardonic film offers a raw and unvarnished look at the complexities of youth, creativity, and the pursuit of artistic identity. Set against the backdrop of a grim suburban America, the film airs on Film 4 this Saturday at 23:40 and is a must-watch for anyone fascinated by offbeat storytelling

Funny Pages is a character-driven narrative that examines the obsessive drive of its protagonist, Robert, as he navigates the messy journey of self-discovery. Robert’s passion for cartooning propels him into a world far removed from comfort and convention, where he seeks mentorship in the most unlikely of places. Through his experiences, the film explores the sacrifices and disillusionments often tied to creative ambition, presenting a raw and unfiltered portrayal of what it means to follow one’s passion.

A striking aspect of the film is its commentary on class alienation. As Robert ventures into less privileged social strata in pursuit of authenticity, the stark realities of economic disparity become a defining feature of his journey. The grim suburban setting enhances this theme, serving as both a physical and metaphorical representation of the barriers that separate artistic dreams from harsh reality. This examination of class adds depth to the narrative, grounding its eccentricity in a stark social context.

Mentorship, another central theme, is portrayed in a manner that subverts expectations. Robert’s interactions with his unconventional mentor blur the lines between guidance and exploitation, illustrating the complexities of learning and growth. The relationship serves as a microcosm for the struggles young artists face when seeking validation and direction, encapsulating the tension between inspiration and disillusionment.

The film’s lo-fi aesthetic is a key element of its authenticity. Eschewing polish for a raw, handmade quality, the visual style reflects Robert’s own chaotic and unrefined journey. This deliberate choice aligns with the narrative’s thematic focus, reinforcing the idea that creativity often emerges from imperfection and disorder. It’s a visual representation of the film’s central message: that artistry is born not from order, but from the messiness of life.

Humor plays a vital role in Funny Pages, albeit with a deadpan delivery that borders on discomfort. The film’s dark comedic tone underscores the absurdity of its characters’ situations, offering both levity and critique. This balance of humor and pathos is one of its defining strengths, drawing viewers into its world while prompting deeper reflection on its underlying themes.

Funny Pages is a uniquely chaotic yet deeply resonant exploration of artistic passion, class, and individuality. It captures the tumultuous reality of youth with unflinching honesty and a sharp comedic edge, making it a standout entry in the coming-of-age genre. Don’t miss the chance to experience this raw and thought-provoking tale—it’s a journey into creativity and chaos.

Undergods (2020) Film 4, 01:25
A surreal anthology of dystopian tales, Undergods explores fractured societies and moral rot through interlinked stories. Bleak yet stylish, it comments on alienation, inequality, and the cyclical nature of decline. It’s a nightmarish reflection of late-stage capitalism, rendered with dark wit and visual flair.

Tuesday 1st April 2025

Two Way Stretch (1960) Film 4, 11:00
This British caper film offers a light-hearted contrast in our line-up, with prisoners planning a heist while technically still incarcerated. Beneath the laughs lies a gentle critique of authority and a clever subversion of penal tropes. A cultural time capsule with charm and cheek.

Moon (2009) Film 4, 21:00
Duncan Jones’ philosophical sci-fi drama examines isolation and identity aboard a lunar mining station. Sam Rockwell’s dual performance interrogates corporate exploitation and personal autonomy, revealing a layered narrative about what it means to be human. Moon is both cerebral and emotionally grounded.

Wednesday 2nd April 2025

Drive (2011) Great! Movies, 21:00
Nicolas Winding Refn’s stylish neo-noir fuses existential cool with bursts of brutal violence. Ryan Gosling’s unnamed driver navigates a criminal underworld defined by loyalty, silence, and sudden rupture. The film’s moody aesthetic and synth-heavy soundtrack underscore themes of masculinity, control, and moral ambiguity.

Dreamland (2019) Channel 4, 01:00
Set during the Great Depression, this dusty fugitive romance interrogates the American Dream through a poetic lens. With its evocative visuals and meditative pace, Dreamland reveals the desperation underlying idealism, and how hope can be both a sanctuary and a snare.

Thursday 3rd April 2025

Science Fiction In The Atomic Age (one of four) 8pm Sky Arts

The first episode of Science Fiction in the Atomic Age on Sky Arts is a captivating dive into how science fiction mirrored humanity’s hopes and fears during the atomic era. It spans literature, film, and television, celebrating legendary creators like H.G. Wells, Ursula Le Guin, and Arthur C. Clarke.

The episode features a stunning range of classics, from 2001: A Space Odyssey to Doctor Who and The Quatermass Experiment. It also explores the influence of blockbusters like Star Wars and The Matrix, illustrating how the genre evolved alongside societal shifts.

With its stirring score and insightful commentary, the series is a vibrant tribute to the power of science fiction to critique the present and imagine the future.

The Man Who Fell To Earth (1976) 9pm Sky Arts

Nicolas Roeg’s The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976) is a visually stunning and thought-provoking sci-fi drama that explores themes of alienation, greed, and the human condition. David Bowie delivers a mesmerizing performance as Thomas Jerome Newton, an extraterrestrial who arrives on Earth seeking water for his drought-stricken planet, only to be ensnared by human vices and corporate exploitation.

The film’s surreal imagery and haunting score create an otherworldly atmosphere, while its narrative challenges viewers to reflect on humanity’s flaws and the cost of progress. A cult classic, this film remains a landmark in science fiction cinema and a testament to Roeg’s visionary storytelling.

Bowie: The Man Who Changed The World 11.40pm Sky Arts

Bowie: The Man Who Changed the World is a documentary that honors David Bowie’s extraordinary life and his influence on music, fashion, and culture. Through interviews with those who knew him and archival footage, it explores his artistic evolution, from Ziggy Stardust to his later years as an icon.

While the absence of Bowie’s music may surprise some viewers, the film offers an engaging glimpse into the man behind the legend and his transformative impact on the arts. It’s a compelling watch for fans and anyone intrigued by his legacy.

Dark River (2017) Film 4, 00:25
Clio Barnard’s rural drama tackles generational trauma, memory, and female resilience. Returning home after her father’s death, a woman confronts buried abuse and contested inheritance. Stark Yorkshire landscapes frame a powerful story about silence, survival, and reclaiming one’s past.

Smoke Sauna Sisterhood (2023) Film 4, 02:10

Smoke Sauna Sisterhood, a 2023 Estonian documentary, offers a profoundly intimate exploration of vulnerability, resilience, and connection among women. Directed by Anna Hints, this powerful film is set within the sacred confines of a traditional Estonian smoke sauna, where women gather to share deeply personal stories of pain, shame, and healing. The documentary airs on Film 4 this Thursday at 02:10 and promises to be an unforgettable experience of raw honesty and transformative solidarity.

The central setting of the smoke sauna is more than a backdrop; it serves as a sanctuary where women can strip away the layers of societal judgment and embrace their truth. Within its walls, rituals unfold that are both cleansing and cathartic, allowing the participants to confront trauma and release the burdens they carry. The sauna becomes a safe space, a microcosm of female camaraderie and shared strength, symbolizing the collective healing that emerges from mutual understanding and support.

A recurring theme in Smoke Sauna Sisterhood is the reclamation of power through vulnerability. As each woman bares her soul, the act of sharing becomes a quiet revolution against the stigma surrounding pain and shame. The film underscores the idea that strength lies not in suppressing emotions but in embracing and expressing them. This radical honesty fosters an environment where the women’s voices are heard, their experiences validated, and their resilience celebrated.

Class and cultural dynamics also emerge subtly within the narrative. The smoke sauna—a practice rooted in Estonian tradition—offers a lens through which to examine the intersection of heritage and modernity. While the setting emphasizes community and ancestral wisdom, the stories told within it often highlight the struggles faced by women in a world shaped by structural inequalities. This juxtaposition enriches the film’s exploration of identity, connecting the deeply personal to the broadly political.

Visually, the film is as evocative as its narrative. Hints’ direction captures the textures of the sauna, the gentle interplay of light and shadow, and the raw emotions etched on the women’s faces. The intimate cinematography immerses viewers in the space, allowing them to feel the warmth of the sauna and the intensity of the shared moments. Every frame serves to enhance the documentary’s authenticity and emotional impact.

Through its quiet yet profound storytelling, Smoke Sauna Sisterhood celebrates the power of collective healing and female solidarity. It is a testament to the resilience found in shared experiences and the strength that arises from vulnerability. This documentary is not just a film—it is an invitation to reflect on the universal truths of pain, healing, and connection.

Friday 4th April 2025

Ain’t Them Bodies Saints (2013) Great! Action, 22:25
A lyrical crime romance echoing Badlands, this film paints an aching portrait of love, loyalty, and longing in the aftermath of violence. Rooney Mara and Casey Affleck deliver restrained, heartfelt performances in a tale steeped in mood, moral conflict, and Southern Gothic tradition.

Withnail and I (1987) Film 4, 01:50

Withnail and I (1987) stands as one of British cinema’s most beloved cult classics, offering a heady mix of humor and melancholy in its portrayal of two unemployed actors struggling to find their place in the world. Directed by Bruce Robinson, the film is a poignant exploration of friendship, excess, and existential despair, set in the turbulent backdrop of Thatcher’s Britain. Airing on Film 4 this Friday at 01:50, Withnail and I continues to resonate as a cultural touchstone for its sharp critique and timeless relatability.

The story follows Withnail, a flamboyant and self-destructive actor played with magnetic brilliance by Richard E. Grant, and his quieter, introspective companion (Paul McGann), referred to only as “I.” Together, they embark on a disastrous countryside retreat in search of solace and escape from their bleak London existence. What ensues is a deeply comic yet tragic journey that captures the absurdity of privilege, the decline of youthful idealism, and the failure to find meaning in a changing world.

A key theme in Withnail and I is its biting satire of privilege and entitlement. While the characters face personal struggles, their escapades reveal an obliviousness to the hardships endured by others. Withnail’s behavior, particularly his interactions with locals, underscores the social divide prevalent in the era, offering a microcosm of wider societal tensions. Through humor and absurdity, Robinson critiques the excesses and indulgences of the privileged class, contrasting their plight with the broader realities of Thatcherite policies.

The film also serves as an elegy for lost youth, with its characters embodying the fading dreams and disillusionment of a generation grappling with economic uncertainty. The retreat to the countryside, which initially promises renewal, becomes a metaphor for the futility of escapism. The story’s bittersweet conclusion leaves viewers reflecting on the impermanence of youthful ambition and the inevitability of change.

Withnail and I captures the cultural and political climate of Thatcher’s Britain with remarkable nuance. The austerity, social inequities, and growing sense of alienation are subtly interwoven into the narrative, providing a backdrop for the characters’ personal struggles. While the film never overtly preaches, its setting serves as a powerful commentary on the broader societal shifts and anxieties of the time.

Another notable aspect of the film is its exploration of friendship and human connection. Withnail’s chaotic energy contrasts starkly with “I’s” quiet sensitivity, creating a dynamic that is both dysfunctional and deeply affecting. Their relationship highlights the complexities of companionship, particularly the sacrifices and dependencies that come with it. As their bond is tested, the film becomes a meditation on loyalty and the bittersweet nature of human relationships.

Visually, the film is steeped in a rich, atmospheric aesthetic that accentuates its themes. From the squalor of their London flat to the eerie beauty of the countryside, cinematographer Peter Hannan captures the juxtaposition between grim reality and fleeting hope. The striking imagery serves to heighten the film’s emotional resonance and underscores its sense of decay.

Withnail and I is a masterpiece that transcends its tragicomic surface to offer profound reflections on privilege, decline, and the search for meaning. Its razor-sharp dialogue, unforgettable performances, and poignant themes ensure its place as one of the greats of British cinema. If you haven’t experienced this gem, make time for it this Friday—it’s a journey into humor, heartbreak, and social critique that leaves an indelible impression.

And finally, streaming

The Donmar Warehouse’s production of Macbeth, available on Marquee TV from Tuesday, April 1, 2025, is a bold and electrifying interpretation of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy. Directed by Max Webster, this staging features David Tennant as Macbeth and Cush Jumbo as Lady Macbeth, delivering performances that are both intense and deeply nuanced.

Filmed live at the Donmar Warehouse, the production captures the unsettling intimacy and brutal action that define the play. Tennant’s portrayal of Macbeth is hypnotic, blending ambition and paranoia, while Jumbo’s Lady Macbeth is compellingly ruthless yet hauntingly vulnerable. The innovative sound design and stark visual elements immerse viewers in the fevered minds of the characters, blurring the lines between reality and hallucination.

This adaptation is a thrilling exploration of ambition, power, and madness, making it a must-watch for fans of Shakespeare and contemporary theatre alike.

Season three of Love on the Spectrum, available on Netflix from Wednesday, April 2, 2025, continues to celebrate the journeys of individuals on the autism spectrum as they navigate the complexities of dating and relationships. This heartfelt docuseries offers a mix of new faces and returning favorites, showcasing their unique experiences and perspectives.

The show remains a powerful exploration of love, breaking stereotypes and fostering understanding. With its blend of humor, emotion, and authenticity, season three promises to be as engaging and inspiring as its predecessors

For extended reviews, visit the Counter Culture website.

Picture credits

Luzzu (2021)
By -jkb- – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=10684187
Smoke Sauna Sisterhood (2023)
By https://hiiumaa.ee/event/kultuurinadalavahetus-savvusanna-sosarad-2/, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=74650682
The Guard (2011)
By The poster art can or could be obtained from Element Pictures., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=32348267
Company (1996 Donmar Warehouse production)
Original Broadway Playbill – By It is believed that the cover art can or could be obtained from the publisher., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=8146470
Children of Men (2006)
By May be found at the following website: IMP Awards, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=24105930
The Road (2009)
By May be found at the following website: IMP Awards, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=24227798
Funny Pages (2022)
By http://www.impawards.com/2022/posters/funny_pages_xlg.jpg, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=71349562
Two Way Stretch (1960)
By British Lion Films – https://alchetron.com/Two-Way-Stretch, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=64079430
Moon (2009)
By http://www.impawards.com/2009/moon_ver2.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=20348255
Drive (2011)
By The poster art can or could be obtained from IMP Awards., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=32645711
Dreamland (2019)
By https://twitter.com/IndieWire/status/1324414929613500416?s=20, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=65768083
The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976)
By http://www.movieposterdb.com/poster/7cb9cac9, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=11988138
Ain’t Them Bodies Saints (2013)
By http://www.ifcfilms.com/films/aintthembodiessaints, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=39419362
Withnail and I (1987)
By Art by Ralph Steadman screenonline entry for the film, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=15999449

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Culture Vulture: 22nd to 28th March 2025

March 21, 2025 at 6:17 pm · Filed under Culture Vulture, Film & DVD Reviews, TV Shows ·Tagged , , ,

5,735 words, 30 minutes read time.

Welcome to this week’s Culture Vulture. We curate the most thought-provoking and culturally significant films, documentaries, and television programmes. They are airing from the 22nd to the 28th of March 2025. This edition offers an eclectic mix of classic cinema, in-depth historical investigations, and powerful contemporary storytelling. With a progressive lens, we highlight themes of justice, identity, resistance, and human psychology across various genres. From the enduring appeal of noir and Westerns, this week’s selections explore music, politics, and social change. They promise to both entertain and challenge perspectives.

Let’s dive into what’s on offer.

Saturday 22nd March 2025

The Big Sleep (1946)

BBC Two, 14:40
Howard Hawks’ The Big Sleep is a quintessential film noir. It is brimming with the genre’s signature cynicism. The film also embodies moral ambiguity and sharp-tongued dialogue. The film is adapted from Raymond Chandler’s novel. It follows private detective Philip Marlowe (Humphrey Bogart). He becomes entangled in a labyrinth of crime, blackmail, and deception. Lauren Bacall’s commanding presence adds depth to the film, crafting a world where power and corruption intertwine seamlessly. The plot is famously intricate. It can be difficult to untangle. However, the film’s atmospheric tension and rapid-fire exchanges solidify its place as a cinematic classic. Yet beneath its stylish veneer, The Big Sleep serves as a searing critique of post-war American society. In this society, justice is elusive, and morality is subjective.

One of the film’s most striking social critiques is its portrayal of a society teetering on the edge of lawlessness. In this society, criminality infects even the wealthiest circles. The Sternwood family seems respectable. However, they are riddled with corruption and moral decay. This family mirrors a post-war America where power does not equate to virtue. The narrative reveals that privilege and wealth do not shield individuals from scandal. Instead, they enable their vices to flourish behind closed doors. Marlowe is caught in the midst of their tangled affairs. He must navigate a world where justice is not a clear-cut ideal. It is a flexible concept dictated by those with influence.

Politically, The Big Sleep reflects a growing distrust in institutional authority, a common theme in noir films of the 1940s. The police are either absent or ineffective, and the legal system appears incapable of maintaining order. The real power lies in the hands of gangsters, blackmailers, and private investigators like Marlowe. These individuals operate in the murky spaces between the law and outright criminality. The film’s cynicism reflects a society disillusioned by war and economic upheaval. In this world, ethical compromises are necessary for survival. In this morally compromised world, Marlowe may be the closest thing to an honest man. However, he bends the rules to serve his own version of justice.

The film also grapples with ethical dilemmas surrounding truth and deception. It questions whether integrity can exist in a society built on lies. Nearly every character Marlowe encounters is engaged in some form of manipulation, whether for financial gain, self-preservation, or sheer amusement. Even Bacall’s Vivian, ostensibly the film’s romantic lead, conceals critical information and operates with an agenda of her own. This pervasive dishonesty forces Marlowe to constantly reassess his allegiances. It ultimately reinforces the film’s central question: is survival more important than virtue? The Big Sleep suggests that in a world dictated by power and greed, idealism is a luxury few can afford.

Ethically, the film blurs the lines between right and wrong. It presents a protagonist who is neither a paragon of virtue nor a hardened criminal. Marlowe is a relic of a bygone era of chivalry. He holds fast to his own moral code. Yet, he is willing to engage in deceit, violence, and intimidation when necessary. His code of ethics is not aligned with the law. It operates within a framework of personal honor. This is a stark contrast to the outright amorality of the criminals he faces. This creates tension between personal morality and legal justice. It gives The Big Sleep its lasting resonance. The film questions whether righteousness is defined by one’s actions or merely by the intentions behind them.

The Big Sleep is more than a stylish detective story. It is a meditation on the corrupting forces of wealth and power. It also reflects the disillusionment of a post-war generation. Additionally, it explores the ethical compromises required to navigate an unjust world. It presents a vision of society where the pursuit of truth is not only dangerous but often futile. This vision leaves its characters—and its audience—questioning whether justice is even possible. In this way, the film stands as one of noir’s most enduring works. It reflects a world where the only certainty is uncertainty itself.

One Fine Morning (2022)

BBC Four, 21:00
Mia Hansen-Løve’s introspective drama is a moving meditation on love, loss, and familial responsibility. Léa Seydoux stars as a woman caring for her ailing father while experiencing a burgeoning romance. The film delicately captures the emotional weight of navigating personal transitions. The understated performances add depth. The thoughtful direction makes One Fine Morning resonate. It serves as an exploration of life’s inevitable shifts. It also highlights the quiet strength found in resilience.

Sunday 23rd March 2025

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)

GREAT! action, 16:00
The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962), directed by John Ford, is a masterful Western. It transcends its genre to offer a profound exploration of justice. It examines memory and the shaping of history. The film follows Ransom Stoddard, played by James Stewart. He is an idealistic lawyer who arrives in the town of Shinbone. He has dreams of bringing law and order to the untamed West. His ideals face the brutal reality of Liberty Valance. Lee Marvin portrays Valance as a ruthless outlaw with menacing charisma. The clash between these two characters sets the stage. The narrative questions the nature of heroism. It also ponders the cost of progress.

Ford’s direction is meticulous, using the stark black-and-white cinematography to emphasize the moral and physical contrasts of the Old West. The film’s central theme is the tension between myth and reality. This theme is encapsulated in its famous line, “When the legend becomes fact, print the legend.” Through this lens, Ford examines how history is often shaped by narratives. These narratives often take precedence over the truth. They serve to uphold societal ideals. The film recounts the events that led to Stoddard’s rise to prominence. The story unfolds in flashback. Stoddard, now an aging senator, shares his experiences. This structure helps the film explore the complexities of memory. It examines how individuals and societies construct their pasts.

The performances are exceptional. Stewart embodies the earnestness and vulnerability of a man striving to uphold his principles. This is in a world that often rewards violence over reason. Lee Marvin’s Liberty Valance is a chilling representation of unchecked power. John Wayne’s Tom Doniphon, a rugged rancher, ultimately saves Stoddard. Doniphon serves as a poignant counterpoint to the lawyer’s idealism. Wayne’s portrayal of Doniphon is layered, revealing a man whose sacrifices are overshadowed by the myths that elevate others. Vera Miles adds depth as Hallie. She is a woman caught between two worlds and two men. Her character symbolizes the personal and societal choices that define the era.

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance is is a meditation on the complexities of human nature. It also reflects on the forces that shape history. It challenges viewers to consider the cost of progress. They are prompted to think about how truth is often sacrificed for the sake of legend. Ford’s film remains a timeless commentary on the interplay between justice, memory, and the power of storytelling. The film is solidified as one of the most thought-provoking works in American cinema.

Paranormal: Britain’s Last Witch

BBC Three, 21:00
Exploring the tragic case of Helen Duncan, Paranormal: Britain’s Last Witch examines the 1944 trial that led to her conviction under the Witchcraft Act. The documentary sheds light on the superstitions and political paranoia that fueled this bizarre legal case, drawing parallels to contemporary debates on state control and freedom of belief.

Ian Dury and the Blockheads: Hold Onto Your Structure

Sky Arts, 21:45
This documentary dives into the punk-era icon, exploring Ian Dury’s unique fusion of rock, poetry, and social critique. It celebrates his rebellious spirit and the way his music challenged societal norms, providing insight into both his artistry and personal struggles.

The Fog of War (2003)

Sky Documentaries, 23:00
Errol Morris’ The Fog of War (2003) is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary that delves into the life and career of Robert McNamara, the former U.S. Secretary of Defense. Through a series of candid interviews, archival footage, and an evocative score by Philip Glass, the film explores McNamara’s reflections on the complexities of modern warfare and the moral dilemmas faced by those in positions of power.

Structured around eleven lessons derived from McNamara’s experiences, the documentary provides a unique lens into pivotal moments in 20th-century history, including the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War. McNamara’s introspective narration offers a rare glimpse into the decision-making processes behind some of the most consequential events of his tenure, revealing both his triumphs and regrets.

The film’s exploration of themes such as the ethics of war, the fallibility of human judgment, and the unintended consequences of political and military actions remains profoundly relevant. It challenges viewers to consider the moral responsibilities of leaders and the often ambiguous nature of historical narratives. Morris’ meticulous direction and McNamara’s candidness combine to create a powerful meditation on the human cost of conflict and the lessons that can be drawn from history.

The Fog of War is a deeply human story that resonates with contemporary issues of power, accountability, and the pursuit of peace. Its chilling relevance lies in its ability to provoke reflection on the complexities of leadership and the enduring impact of decisions made in the “fog” of uncertainty.

Monday 24th March 2025

Ramses the Great: King of Ancient Egypt

Sky History, 21:00
A deep dive into the legacy of Ramses II, this documentary presents new archaeological discoveries that reshape our understanding of his rule. It explores the intersection of mythology and statecraft, questioning how much of his enduring legend is fact or propaganda.

My Friend Dahmer (2017)

Film4, 23:40
Based on the graphic memoir by Derf Backderf, this unsettling film traces the teenage years of Jeffrey Dahmer before his infamous crimes. Rather than sensationalising his actions, it offers an eerie portrait of isolation, mental illness, and the warning signs that were ignored.

Tuesday 25th March 2025

Miyazaki: Spirit of Nature

Sky Arts, 21:15
A fascinating look at Hayao Miyazaki’s deep environmental themes, this documentary examines how nature, spirituality, and human impact shape his storytelling. With insights into Princess Mononoke, My Neighbor Totoro, and more, it’s a must-watch for animation enthusiasts.

Lucy Worsley Investigates: The Witch Hunts

BBC Four, 21:00
Lucy Worsley Investigates (BBC Four, 21:00) offers a fascinating and thought-provoking exploration of the 16th-century witch hunts, a dark chapter in British history that saw thousands of people, predominantly women, accused of witchcraft and executed. Historian Lucy Worsley brings her signature blend of meticulous research and engaging storytelling to uncover the cultural, political, and social forces that fueled these persecutions. By focusing on specific cases, such as that of Agnes Sampson, a midwife and healer accused of witchcraft in Scotland, Worsley sheds light on the human cost of these events and the broader implications for society at the time.

The episode delves into the intersection of religion, politics, and fear that created the perfect storm for the witch hunts. The rise of Protestantism and the accompanying religious reforms played a significant role, as hardline reformers sought to root out perceived threats to their vision of a devout society. King James VI of Scotland, later James I of England, emerges as a central figure in this narrative. His personal involvement in witch trials, driven by his belief in the Devil’s active recruitment of witches, highlights how political leaders exploited these fears to consolidate power and assert their authority. The program examines how these trials were not merely about superstition but were deeply entwined with the political and religious upheavals of the time.

Worsley also explores the gendered nature of the witch hunts, emphasizing how societal attitudes toward women made them particularly vulnerable to accusations. Women who defied traditional roles—whether as healers, midwives, or simply outspoken individuals—were often targeted, reflecting broader anxieties about female autonomy and power. The use of torture to extract confessions and the subsequent executions reveal the brutal methods employed to enforce conformity and suppress dissent. By examining these dynamics, the episode provides a nuanced understanding of how the witch hunts were a manifestation of deeply ingrained misogyny and fear of the “other.”

This episode of Lucy Worsley Investigates invites viewers to reflect on the enduring relevance of the witch hunts. It draws parallels between the scapegoating and moral panics of the past and similar phenomena in contemporary society, urging us to consider how fear and prejudice can lead to the persecution of marginalized groups. Through her insightful analysis, Worsley not only brings history to life but also challenges us to learn from it, making this a must-watch for anyone interested in the complexities of human behavior and the forces that shape our world.

Rocketman (2019)

Film4, 21:00
Rocketman (2019) is more than a vibrant musical biopic—it’s a kaleidoscope of social, political, ethical, and psychological themes, intertwining Elton John’s life story with universal struggles and triumphs. The film provides a poignant exploration of identity and self-acceptance, shedding light on the societal challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Elton John’s journey through his sexuality highlights the importance of embracing one’s true self amidst societal stigmatization. It also reflects the changing attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights, contrasting the oppressive environments of the past with the increasing acceptance seen in more recent times. Additionally, the isolating effects of fame and wealth are explored as the narrative critiques how celebrity culture often exploits individuals, exposing the loneliness behind the glamour of stardom.

The backdrop of Elton John’s rise—beginning in the conservative social climates of mid-20th-century Britain—serves as a commentary on the intersection of art, politics, and personal expression. The lack of space for LGBTQ+ individuals in the entertainment industry during that period emphasizes the courage required to confront these barriers. The film also critiques societal systems that overlook mental health issues and addiction, underscoring the need for greater institutional support.

Elton John’s struggles with addiction introduce questions about personal responsibility versus societal and environmental factors. The enabling behavior of those around him—both personally and professionally—raises ethical concerns about prioritizing profit or convenience over someone’s well-being. Forgiveness and redemption play central roles, as Elton’s eventual reconciliation with himself and his past illustrates the complexities of healing and the importance of accountability.

Rocketman is a profound psychological exploration of identity, self-worth, and personal growth. It delves into Elton’s strained relationships with his parents, revealing how their lack of emotional support influenced his sense of inadequacy and longing for validation. These experiences shaped his reliance on external affirmation, addiction, and his ultimate journey toward self-love. The psychological toll of suppressed emotions and the weight of public expectations are vividly illustrated through the fantastical musical sequences, serving as visual metaphors for his inner turmoil.

This multi-layered narrative offers more than just a glimpse into Elton John’s life—it becomes a universal story about the human need for acceptance, the pitfalls of success, and the resilience required to overcome life’s challenges. The film is a celebration of individuality, artistry, and the transformative power of authenticity.

Selma (2014)

BBC Two, 23:05
Ava DuVernay’s Selma is a powerful and deeply affecting civil rights drama that chronicles Martin Luther King Jr.’s historic 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery, a pivotal moment in the struggle for voting rights. Rather than serving as a broad biopic of King’s life, the film focuses on this crucial chapter, immersing viewers in the tensions, courage, and sacrifices that defined the movement. With a careful balance of historical accuracy and emotional depth, Selma offers an intimate portrayal of the figures who risked everything to challenge systemic oppression.

At the heart of the film is David Oyelowo’s commanding performance as Dr. King. He captures the civil rights leader’s charisma, strategic brilliance, and moments of private vulnerability with remarkable nuance. His depiction avoids hagiography, instead presenting King as a man burdened by responsibility, plagued by doubt, yet unwavering in his commitment to justice. The supporting cast, including Carmen Ejogo as Coretta Scott King and Tom Wilkinson as President Lyndon B. Johnson, adds further depth to the narrative, illustrating the complex political and personal stakes of the movement.

DuVernay’s direction brings an urgent and immersive quality to the film. The scenes of protest, particularly the infamous “Bloody Sunday” attack on the Edmund Pettus Bridge, are harrowing and visceral, placing the audience in the midst of the brutality faced by activists. The cinematography and score heighten the emotional weight, making the violence and resistance feel immediate rather than a distant historical event. Every shot is infused with purpose, reflecting both the collective struggle and individual sacrifices of those involved.

Beyond its historical significance, Selma remains profoundly relevant to contemporary discussions on racial justice, voter suppression, and activism. The film draws undeniable parallels between the past and present, emphasizing that the fight for equality is ongoing. King’s speeches, reimagined for the film due to copyright restrictions on his actual words, still resonate with striking authenticity, demonstrating the continued necessity of grassroots movements and political engagement in the face of systemic injustice.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its refusal to simplify history into neat narratives of good versus evil. It acknowledges the tensions within the movement, the strategic disagreements, and the personal costs borne by its leaders. This complexity allows Selma to transcend mere historical reenactment, instead offering a meditation on leadership, sacrifice, and the price of progress. By giving space to both the well-known figures and lesser-sung heroes of the movement, the film underscores the collective nature of change.

Selma is a film about the present and future not just history. DuVernay crafts a gripping, deeply human story that both educates and inspires, urging audiences to reflect on the ongoing struggles for civil rights. With its masterful performances, evocative storytelling, and poignant themes, Selma stands as an essential watch, reminding us that the march toward justice is far from over.

Wednesday 26th March 2025

A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story (four of four)

ITV1, 21:00
The final episode of A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story is a harrowing and poignant portrayal of the last hours of Ruth Ellis, the last woman to be executed in Britain. Lucy Boynton delivers a powerful performance as Ruth Ellis, capturing her vulnerability and resilience as she faces the inevitability of her fate. The episode unfolds with her lawyer, John Bickford, played with quiet determination by Toby Jones, racing against time to secure a reprieve. With only 24 hours left, Bickford’s efforts highlight the systemic biases and societal indifference that sealed Ruth’s tragic destiny.

Through a series of flashbacks, the episode delves into the tumultuous weeks leading up to the murder of David Blakely, portrayed by Laurie Davidson. These scenes shed light on the toxic and abusive nature of their relationship, with Davidson embodying Blakely’s charm and cruelty in equal measure. The narrative does not shy away from depicting the physical and emotional abuse Ruth endured, offering a stark commentary on the lack of support for victims of domestic violence during that era.

Mark Stanley’s portrayal of Desmond Cussen, Ruth’s loyal yet conflicted friend, adds another layer of complexity to the story. His quiet devotion to Ruth contrasts sharply with Blakely’s volatile behavior, raising questions about the choices and sacrifices made in the name of love and loyalty. The flashbacks also explore Ruth’s struggles as a single mother and nightclub hostess, painting a vivid picture of the societal pressures and personal demons that shaped her actions.

The episode masterfully intertwines the past and present, using the flashbacks to provide context for Ruth’s final moments. The courtroom scenes, where Ruth’s stoic demeanor and refusal to present herself as a victim are brought to life, underscore the legal and societal prejudices that contributed to her conviction. Nigel Havers, portraying his real-life grandfather Justice Cecil Havers, delivers a chilling performance as the judge who sentenced Ruth to death, embodying the rigid and unforgiving nature of the justice system at the time.

As the clock ticks down, the emotional weight of the episode intensifies. Boynton’s portrayal of Ruth’s quiet acceptance of her fate is both heartbreaking and thought-provoking, leaving viewers to grapple with the ethical and moral questions surrounding her execution. The episode does not offer easy answers but instead invites reflection on the broader themes of justice, gender, and societal change.

By re-examining Ruth Ellis’s story through a modern lens, A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story challenges viewers to consider how far society has come—and how far it still has to go—in addressing issues of domestic abuse, legal bias, and gender inequality. The final episode is a fitting and powerful conclusion to a series that is as much about the systemic failures of the past as it is about the enduring need for compassion and justice.

Triple 9 (2016)

Legend, 22:55
Triple 9 (2016) is a relentless and gritty crime thriller that plunges viewers into a world of corruption, desperation, and moral ambiguity. Directed by John Hillcoat, the film is set in the seedy underbelly of Atlanta, where the lines between law enforcement and criminality blur to devastating effect. With a stellar ensemble cast, including Casey Affleck, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Anthony Mackie, Kate Winslet, and Woody Harrelson, the film delivers a high-octane narrative that explores the fragility of trust and the devastating consequences of betrayal.

The story revolves around a group of corrupt cops and ex-military operatives who are coerced by the Russian mafia, led by the ruthless Irina Vlaslov (played with chilling precision by Kate Winslet), into executing a series of heists. The crew’s desperation reaches a boiling point when they devise a plan to stage a “999”—the police code for “officer down”—as a diversion for their final, high-stakes robbery. This plan sets the stage for a tense and morally complex showdown, as loyalties are tested and the characters’ true natures are revealed.

Casey Affleck shines as Chris Allen, a principled rookie cop who becomes an unwitting pawn in the crew’s deadly scheme. His portrayal of a man navigating a corrupt system adds a layer of vulnerability and integrity to the film. Chiwetel Ejiofor delivers a powerful performance as Michael Atwood, the crew’s leader, whose personal ties to the mafia complicate his already precarious situation. Anthony Mackie brings depth to his role as Marcus Belmont, a conflicted cop torn between his loyalty to his partners and his own moral compass.

The film’s visual style is as unflinching as its narrative, with Hillcoat and cinematographer Nicolas Karakatsanis capturing the stark contrasts of Atlanta’s urban landscape. The gritty, dimly lit streets and dilapidated housing projects serve as a backdrop for the characters’ descent into chaos, while the sleek, sterile interiors of corporate safe houses underscore the systemic corruption that permeates every level of society.

Triple 9 is not just a tale of crime and betrayal; it is a commentary on the corrosive effects of power and greed. The film delves into the psychological toll of living a double life, as the characters grapple with their own guilt and the ever-present threat of exposure. It also raises questions about the nature of justice and the extent to which individuals are willing to compromise their principles in the face of desperation.

With its intense action sequences, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, Triple 9 offers a gripping exploration of the darker aspects of human nature. It is a film that challenges viewers to confront the uncomfortable realities of a world where morality is often a matter of perspective, and survival comes at a steep cost.

Late Night (2019)

BBC Two, 23:35
Late Night (2019) is a witty and incisive comedy-drama that deftly explores themes of media, diversity, and personal reinvention. Directed by Nisha Ganatra and written by Mindy Kaling, the film stars Emma Thompson as Katherine Newbury, a legendary late-night talk-show host whose career is on the brink of collapse. Thompson delivers a tour-de-force performance, portraying Katherine as a complex blend of arrogance, vulnerability, and biting humor. Her character is a paradox—a trailblazer in a male-dominated industry who struggles to adapt to the changing landscape of modern entertainment.

Mindy Kaling, who also stars as Molly Patel, brings warmth and relatability to the film. Molly is an ambitious and idealistic newcomer hired as a diversity hire to Katherine’s all-male writing team. Kaling’s portrayal of Molly is both charming and grounded, serving as a counterpoint to Katherine’s jaded cynicism. The dynamic between the two characters drives the narrative, as Molly’s fresh perspective challenges Katherine to confront her own biases and insecurities.

The film’s sharp satire takes aim at the entertainment industry, highlighting its resistance to change and its often superficial approach to diversity. Through Katherine’s struggles to remain relevant, Late Night critiques the industry’s obsession with youth and social media, as well as its tendency to overlook talented women and people of color. The writing is both clever and poignant, balancing laugh-out-loud moments with heartfelt introspection.

John Lithgow delivers a touching performance as Walter, Katherine’s supportive husband who is battling Parkinson’s disease. His relationship with Katherine adds emotional depth to the story, revealing a softer side to her otherwise abrasive personality. The supporting cast, including Hugh Dancy as a smarmy writer and Amy Ryan as the network president, adds layers of complexity to the film’s exploration of workplace dynamics and power struggles.

Visually, the film captures the frenetic energy of a late-night talk-show environment, with its fast-paced editing and vibrant set design. The cinematography complements the narrative, emphasizing the stark contrast between Katherine’s glamorous on-screen persona and her private moments of self-doubt.

Late Night is a celebration of resilience and reinvention. It champions the idea that growth often comes from embracing discomfort and challenging the status quo. Emma Thompson and Mindy Kaling’s performances anchor the film, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. With its sharp humour and timely themes,

Thursday 27th March 2025

Douglas Adams: The Man Who Imagined Our Future

Sky Arts, 20:00
Douglas Adams’ imaginative ideas in The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy have remarkably foreshadowed modern technology. For example:

  • The titular “Hitchhiker’s Guide” predicted e-books and digital assistants like Kindle or Siri with its portable electronic book full of information.
  • His vision of seamless information access mirrors the internet and cloud computing.
  • The Babel Fish, which instantly translates languages, resembles today’s translation apps and devices.

Adams’ influence even extends to innovators like Elon Musk. Musk has called The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy a “philosophy book disguised as humour,” shaping his worldview. Musk’s ventures, such as exploring artificial intelligence and aiming for humanity to become multi-planetary, echo Adams’ themes of curiosity and exploration.

Adams’ work inspires thinkers and dreamers to push boundaries and reimagine what’s possible.

Discovering Sci-Fi

Sky Arts, 21:30
This compelling documentary delves into the transformative power of science fiction, exploring how the genre shapes our vision of the future while offering profound social commentary. By blending creativity with critique, science fiction has consistently challenged societal norms, anticipated technological breakthroughs, and reimagined humanity’s potential.

Through thought-provoking interviews with authors, filmmakers, and scholars, Discovering Sci-Fi traces the genre’s evolution, examining its influence on technology, ethics, and culture. The program uncovers how iconic works have inspired real-world innovations, from space exploration to artificial intelligence.

Friday 28th March 2025

When Patsy Cline Was… Crazy

PBS America, 22:50
When Patsy Cline Was… Crazy is a compelling exploration of the life and legacy of one of country music’s most iconic voices. The documentary delves into Patsy Cline’s meteoric rise to fame, her groundbreaking contributions to the genre, and the personal struggles that shaped her artistry. Through archival footage, interviews, and performances, the film paints a vivid portrait of a woman who defied the odds to become a trailblazer in a male-dominated industry. Her powerful voice and emotional depth revolutionized country music, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and the music world alike.

The documentary also examines the societal and cultural challenges Patsy faced during her career. It highlights the pressures of navigating fame as a woman in the 1950s and 1960s, a time when traditional gender roles often stifled female ambition. Patsy’s determination to assert her independence and artistic vision, even in the face of industry resistance, underscores her resilience and pioneering spirit. The film doesn’t shy away from exploring the personal sacrifices and hardships she endured, offering a nuanced perspective on the cost of success.

When Patsy Cline Was… Crazy is a celebration of Patsy’s enduring influence and the timeless quality of her music. It captures the emotional resonance of her songs, which continue to connect with audiences across generations. By blending her personal story with her professional achievements, the documentary provides a heartfelt tribute to a woman whose legacy transcends the boundaries of country music.

Get Out (2017)

BBC One, 23:40
Get Out (2017), Jordan Peele’s groundbreaking directorial debut, is a masterful blend of horror and social commentary that unpacks the complexities of race relations in contemporary America. The film follows Chris Washington, played with remarkable nuance by Daniel Kaluuya, as he visits the family of his white girlfriend, Rose Armitage (Allison Williams). What begins as an awkward weekend with her seemingly progressive parents, Dean and Missy Armitage (Bradley Whitford and Catherine Keener), spirals into a chilling nightmare that exposes the sinister undercurrents of performative allyship and racial exploitation.

Peele’s script is razor-sharp, using microaggressions and unsettling interactions to build an atmosphere of creeping dread. The Armitages’ overly accommodating behavior—such as Dean’s infamous claim that he would have voted for Obama a third time—initially seems like clumsy attempts at inclusivity but soon reveals a far more disturbing agenda. The film’s brilliance lies in its ability to make the audience feel the weight of these interactions, capturing the discomfort and paranoia that often accompany racial dynamics in predominantly white spaces.

The horror elements are both visceral and psychological, with Peele employing genre tropes to amplify the film’s social critique. The “Sunken Place,” a haunting metaphor for the silencing and marginalization of Black voices, is one of the film’s most striking visual and thematic devices. Catherine Keener’s portrayal of Missy, whose hypnosis traps Chris in this state of helplessness, is both chilling and emblematic of the insidious ways power can be wielded under the guise of benevolence.

The supporting cast, including Lakeith Stanfield and Betty Gabriel, delivers unforgettable performances that add depth to the film’s exploration of identity and autonomy. Their characters, who appear to be living under the Armitages’ control, embody the loss of agency that lies at the heart of the story. The film’s climactic revelations about the Armitages’ true intentions serve as a scathing indictment of cultural appropriation and the commodification of Black bodies.

Peele’s direction is meticulous, with every shot and line of dialogue serving a purpose. The film’s pacing keeps viewers on edge, while its dark humor provides moments of levity without undermining its serious themes. The use of music, from the eerie opening track “Redbone” by Childish Gambino to the unsettling score by Michael Abels, enhances the film’s tension and emotional resonance.

Get Out is a cultural phenomenon that forces audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about privilege, systemic racism, and the facade of progressivism. By blending entertainment with incisive social critique, Peele has created a work that is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying, cementing his place as a visionary filmmaker. The film’s impact continues to resonate, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the intersection of race and power in modern society.

And finally, Streaming Releases

Harlan Coben’s Caught (Netflix, 26th March)

This tense thriller explores the devastating consequences of lies and the relentless pursuit of redemption. Following a journalist entangled in a missing child case, it examines the role of the media in shaping narratives and the impact of perception on justice. The story unveils the fragility of trust and the emotional toll exacted on individuals navigating a morally fraught world.

See No Evil (Netflix, 27th March)

This unsettling series revisits the horrific crimes of Myra Hindley and Ian Brady, whose actions shocked a nation. It explores the factors that led to their gruesome acts, the societal reactions to their atrocities, and the enduring trauma inflicted on victims’ families. By confronting the darkest aspects of human behavior, it prompts a reflection on accountability, memory, and the pursuit of justice.

Number One On The Call Sheet (Apple TV+, 28th March)

Celebrating Black actors who have made remarkable strides in Hollywood, this documentary reflects on the barriers they have overcome and the impact of their achievements. It highlights the importance of representation in challenging outdated norms, while showcasing the resilience and innovation required to redefine an industry. Their stories are a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and creativity.

Walter Presents: Deception (Channel 4, 28th March)

Set in the captivating city of Helsinki, this drama weaves a tale of manipulation, ambition, and the consequences of hidden truths. Against a backdrop of urban sophistication, the series navigates the intricacies of fractured relationships and secret agendas, providing a fascinating examination of human behavior and the costs of deceit.

Deadwax (ITVX, 20th March)

Blending psychological tension with supernatural horror, this series revolves around a cursed vinyl record that unravels the lives of those who encounter it. It delves into the darker sides of obsession and the lengths people will go to obtain the unattainable. The eerie narrative explores the fine line between passion and madness, drawing viewers into a haunting tale of human vulnerability.

Royal Favourites: George Villiers and James I (History Hit, 27th March)

This historical documentary offers a detailed look at the relationship between King James I and George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, revealing how personal alliances shaped political outcomes. By examining their connection, it sheds light on the complexities of ambition, loyalty, and influence within the royal court, offering a nuanced perspective on history’s interwoven personal and public spheres.

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Culture Vulture 15th to the 21st of February 2025

February 15, 2025 at 11:09 am · Filed under Culture Vulture, Film & DVD Reviews ·Tagged , , , , , ,

Welcome to Culture Vulture

Your weekly entertainment guide, written from an alternative viewpoint. Here, we explore film, TV, and streaming with a focus on fresh perspectives, overlooked gems, and stories that challenge the mainstream. Culture Vulture isn’t just about what’s on—it’s about why it matters.

All selections and writing are by Pat Harrington. Music is from Tim Bragg.

This Week’s Highlights

Quo Vadis, Aida? – BBC2 1.25am, Saturday
A devastating look at one woman’s struggle to save her family as history’s cruel machinery grinds forward.

Zero Day – Streaming from Thursday
A high-stakes political thriller where secrets aren’t just power—they are survival.

The Quiet Girl – C4 12.10am, Monday
A beautifully restrained story of a child discovering kindness for the first time.

Stay tuned for in-depth reviews, critical takes, and a perspective you won’t find anywhere else.

Saturday 15th February 2025

Songs Inspired By The Movies At The BBC – BBC2 8.35pm

This programme brings together a mix of performances from the BBC archives. The selection spans decades.. Some choices, like Bananarama’s Robert De Niro’s Waiting and Deep Blue Something’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s, make clear connections to cinema. Others are more tenuous—Shania Twain’s That Don’t Impress Me Much is included seemingly for name-dropping Brad Pitt rather than any deeper film link.

An T-Eilean (The Island) – BBC4 9pm

“An T-Eilean” (The Island) is a gripping Scottish Gaelic-language crime drama set in the picturesque Outer Hebrides. The series follows Kat Crichton (played by Sorcha Groundsell), a family liaison officer who returns to her island home after a decade to investigate the murder of Lady Mary, the wife of a wealthy tycoon2. As Kat delves into the case, she uncovers deep-seated family secrets and confronts her own troubled past.

The show’s stunning landscapes and authentic portrayal of island life add to its atmospheric tension, while the blend of Gaelic and English dialogue enriches the storytelling. With a talented cast including Sagar Radia as DCI Ahmed Halim and Iain Macrae as Sir Douglas Maclean, “An T-Eilean” stands out as a landmark in Gaelic-language television, offering a unique and captivating viewing experience.

A Quiet Place (2018) – Film4 11.20pm

Silence is survival. In this world, sound brings death, so a family learns to live in near-complete quiet. Every movement is careful, every word unspoken. Even the smallest mistake can cost a life.

The tension never fades. The father, protective but powerless, builds barriers that cannot last. The mother, expecting a child, knows the risk she takes. The children, forced to grow up too fast, carry burdens they never chose.

There is love here, even in the fear. The film is as much about family as it is about horror. In the end, survival is not just about silence—it’s about sacrifice.

Quo Vadis, Aida? (2020) – BBC2 1.25am

Aida is a translator, caught between duty and desperation. She works for the UN, believing she can keep her family safe. But the promises made to her are empty, and the walls close in.

She moves through crowded rooms, pleading with those in power. Some listen, some turn away. No one tells the truth. Outside, families wait, uncertain of their fate. Inside, decisions are made, final and cold.

There is no justice here, no hero to save the day. Only the choices of one woman, trying to hold onto hope when all is lost.

Sunday 16th February 2025

Notorious (1946) – Talking Pictures 6pm

In this classic Alfred Hitchcock thriller, spies, betrayal, and a love tangled in lies take center stage. Alicia Huberman (Ingrid Bergman), the daughter of a convicted Nazi spy, is recruited by government agent T.R. Devlin (Cary Grant) to infiltrate a group of Nazi sympathizers in South America. Her mission: to seduce Alex Sebastian (Claude Rains), a high-ranking member of the group.

As Alicia delves deeper into her role, her loyalty and love are tested at every turn. She plays her part well, but at what cost? The camera lingers on her face, the weight of her choices visible in every glance. Devlin, torn between his duty and his feelings for Alicia, watches from a distance, caught between trust and suspicion.

Shadows stretch long across the screen, secrets hiding in every corner. The tension between Alicia and Alex, and Alicia and Devlin, drives the film forward, making every interaction charged with suspense. Some films age, others sharpen with time. This one remains as sharp as ever, its tensions still cutting deep.

Nixon In The Den – PBS America 8.35pm

A man at the peak of power, yet always afraid. Nixon’s world was built on paranoia, on enemies real and imagined. This documentary takes us inside that world, showing the mind behind the man.

The footage is stark. Private conversations reveal a leader whose victories brought no peace. The need to control, to silence opposition, grew stronger the higher he climbed. He had power but never security.

History has judged him, but this film lets him speak.

Escaping Utopia (one of three) – BBC2 9pm

Some individuals are born into environments where control is paramount. They are instructed on what to believe, whom to fear, and what to love. For those who manage to break free, the concept of freedom can be both unfamiliar and daunting.

“Escaping Utopia” is a poignant documentary that delves into the lives of individuals who have left behind strict, closed communities, such as the Gloriavale Christian Community in New Zealand. The film chronicles their journeys as they step into a world vastly different from the one they were conditioned to accept. Through candid interviews and personal stories, viewers gain insight into the psychological toll of escaping a controlled environment.

Gloriavale, founded in 1969 by Neville Cooper (also known as “Hopeful Christian”), is a small and isolated cult located on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. The community is known for its fundamentalist Christian beliefs, large families, and strict gender roles. Members wear distinctive uniforms, and the community has faced numerous allegations of abuse and exploitation over the years.

Many participants speak with a sense of relief, having finally found the courage to seek a new life. However, others share their experiences with palpable pain, as the past continues to cast long shadows over their present. Even after leaving, the memories and scars of their previous lives remain deeply etched.

This documentary not only tells a story of survival but also highlights the profound sense of loss that comes with leaving behind everything they once knew. It explores the challenges of adapting to a new reality, the fear of the unknown, and the resilience required to rebuild one’s identity. Through their voices, “Escaping Utopia” offers a moving narrative of courage, transformation, and the enduring quest for freedom.

Words On Bathroom Walls (2020) – BBC3 10.30pm

A teenager struggles with a mind that won’t stay quiet. He sees things others don’t, hears voices no one else hears. His world is fractured, shifting, always uncertain.

The film does not romanticise his experience. The fear is real, but so is his humour. He clings to love, to the idea of normality, even when it feels out of reach.

It’s not just about illness. It’s about understanding, about how people see those who are different. He wants to be more than his diagnosis. But will the world let him?

Monday 17th February 2025

Gaza: How To Survive A Warzone – BBC2 9pm

Survival is not just about staying alive. It is about finding food, keeping loved ones safe, and making choices no one should have to make. For those living in a warzone, danger is constant, but life must go on.

The documentary follows people navigating destruction in Gaza, a place where the conflict between Israel and Hamas has left deep scars. A mother, shielding her children from the chaos; a doctor, working tirelessly without supplies; a boy, too young to understand but old enough to feel fear. Their days are filled with waiting—waiting for aid, for news, for the next attack.

There is no easy answer here. The film does not give solutions, only stories. And stories matter. They remind us that behind the headlines, there are people. Through the lens of three children and a young woman with a newborn, the documentary captures the harrowing reality of life in Gaza, where even the youngest are forced to confront unimaginable horrors.

There is no easy answer here. The film does not give solutions, only stories. And stories matter. They remind us that behind the headlines, there are people.

The Real Stonehouse – ITV1 10.45pm

John Stonehouse was a British politician who built his life on deception. A charismatic and ambitious man, he climbed the ranks of the Labour Party, gaining power and enjoying the rewards that came with it. However, lies and deceit can only hold for so long, and eventually, the truth catches up with him.

The documentary unfolds the riveting tale of Stonehouse’s audacious plan to fake his own death. In 1974, facing financial ruin and the possibility of his fraudulent activities being exposed, Stonehouse staged his own disappearance in Miami, leaving behind a neatly folded pile of clothes on the beach. He hoped to start afresh in Australia under a new identity, away from his mounting troubles. However, he underestimated the complexity of the world around him and his ability to outsmart the authorities.

As the story progresses, Stonehouse’s carefully crafted facade begins to crumble. His plans unravel when a combination of errors, including his conspicuous behavior and the astuteness of law enforcement, leads to his arrest in Melbourne, Australia. Despite his initial success in evading capture, the flaws in his scheme become evident, and his downfall is inevitable.

“The Real Stonehouse” does not paint him as a straightforward villain or a tragic victim. Instead, it presents a nuanced portrait of a man whose ambition and hubris outweighed his abilities. The documentary explores the intricacies of his deception, his motivations, and the eventual consequences of his actions. Through interviews, archival footage, and expert analysis, viewers are given an in-depth look at the life and times of John Stonehouse, a politician whose legacy is forever marked by his infamous attempt to escape his past.

The Quiet Girl (2022) – C4 12.10am

A child sent away, silent and watchful. She has learned not to expect much. But in a new home, she finds something unfamiliar: kindness.

The film moves slowly, allowing glances and gestures to speak. No grand events, no dramatic revelations—just a girl realising she is valued. The sadness lingers, but so does the warmth.

It’s a story of care, of understanding what love looks like when words are few. And it’s a reminder that some things, once given, cannot be taken away.

Tuesday 18th February 2025

Georgia Harrison, Porn, Power, Profit (Part One) – ITV4 9pm

A woman fights to reclaim what was stolen. Private moments turned into public spectacle. A violation excused as entertainment.

Her voice is clear, unwavering. She refuses to let others define her. The legal battles are long, but the personal cost is greater. This is not just about her—it is about a system that allows such things to happen.

Speaking out comes with risks. But silence would mean accepting defeat. And she is not willing to do that.

Snowpiercer (2013) – ITV4 10pm

A train circles a frozen Earth. Inside, life is divided. The rich live in luxury, the poor fight for scraps. Order is kept through force, and rebellion simmers below the surface.

The film moves fast, each carriage revealing something new. Violence is sudden, brutal. The cost of change is high, but the alternative is worse. The train cannot run forever.

It asks, without ever saying it directly: who deserves comfort, and who is left to suffer? And who decides?

Wednesday 19th February 2025

Georgia Harrison, Porn, Power, Profit (Part Two) – ITV4 9pm

Georgia Harrison returns to ITV2 and ITVX with a two-part series exploring the lucrative world of the online porn business following on from her previous documentary, Revenge Porn: Georgia vs Bear.

Georgia explains:-

“What we really wanted to do was get to the bottom of who is behind the posting of image-based sexual abuse that’s still out there. The first part involves me having to really look into where my video still is which is obviously a really tough thing to do, but by doing that we could then decipher how many different sites it was on. Then this gave us a way of following the video,  figuring out who is actually behind the money and who is advertising next to this image-based sexual abuse.

“When it comes to DeepFake pornography, I have so many women now messaging me through my inbox for help. That’s usually all forms of abuse, so image-based sexual abuse, DeepFake pornography, domestic abuse, anything to do with a struggling relationship or another person involved, people tend to reach out.

“I was just seeing more and more issues around DeepFakes, a lot from mothers and it was affecting their children in school and I just thought, ‘this is the same sort of feeling as image-based sexual abuse’. It is the same feeling of humiliation, a violation of literally being de-clothed without your consent. It’s unconsented image-based abuse. Just because it’s fake, doesn’t mean it doesn’t evoke the same emotion within the victim it affects.” 

With the global porn industry worth an estimated $1 billion globally, Georgia takes a deep dive look into how this hugely profitable industry works and seeks to uncover just how far her own illegal video has spread, and who might be profiting from it.

Georgia says:-

“Overall, the purpose of doing both documentaries is to do two things; give the power back to the victims and look into how the porn industry works and how it makes its money.  I’ve been very open about what’s happened to me, been to Downing Street, won my court case…I very publicly made it obvious that my video is unconsented, yet it’s still on so many websites. 

“It’s raising awareness of that, because hopefully, we can evoke change within the internet, so in the future, not just me, but any person who has been a victim of revenge porn won’t have to wake up every day wondering if it’s still out there.  If you can stop the people higher up from investing into the advertisement at the bottom, then the people at the bottom won’t keep putting up unconsented footage because they won’t be making any money off it. It’s just exposing the ecosystem. 

“And with DeepFakes, it’s exposing the issue because so many people aren’t aware of it and I’m telling you, I had heard of it and I had friends who were affected by it, but until really looking into it and immersing myself into the world of it, I had no idea how damaging it is to society. How much it’s catching us all up, how much it’s ruining young people’s lives. It’s affecting parents and teachers who are dealing with this issue in schools, it’s a really horrible thing to do.  Recently it was announced that the creation of deepfakes will be made illegal so the more awareness I can raise around it, the more likely it will be implemented.” 

Here at Culture Vulture we agree that the battle is not over. The system protects those who exploit. She keeps speaking, keeps pushing. Justice is slow, but silence would mean giving up.

Others come forward. Similar stories, the same fight. The problem is bigger than one case. It is built into the way power works.

It is a hard watch, but an important one. The cost of speaking out is high, but the cost of staying silent is higher.

The Father (2020) – Film4 9pm

In “The Father,” Anthony Hopkins delivers an extraordinary performance as an elderly man grappling with the disorienting effects of dementia. As his mind betrays him, time loses its coherence, certainty becomes elusive, and familiar faces morph into strangers. Rooms shift, and memories vanish like smoke, leaving both Anthony and the audience in a labyrinth of confusion and doubt.

The film places us inside Anthony’s fragmented perception of reality. We experience his bewilderment firsthand, seeing through his eyes and feeling the same disorientation he endures. Olivia Colman portrays Anne, Anthony’s devoted daughter, who is both patient and exhausted, struggling to care for a father who is gradually slipping away. Her unwavering commitment to him serves as an emotional anchor amidst the chaos.

“The Father” is a deeply affecting exploration of the devastating impact of dementia on individuals and their families. There is no relief, no easy resolution—only the harsh, quiet truth that some battles cannot be won. The film’s brilliance lies in its ability to evoke empathy and understanding for those facing this relentless condition, leaving a lasting impression on all who watch.

Shayda (2023) – Film4 1.35am

A mother and daughter seek refuge, but safety is fragile. They are not free, not really. The past is close, the threat never far.

The film is filled with small moments. A child laughing, a mother braiding hair. But underneath, the fear remains. How long can they stay hidden?

It does not promise a happy ending, only a chance to keep going. And sometimes, that is enough.

Thursday 20th February 2025

Vesper (2022) – Film4 9pm

In a world that is dying and struggling to survive, young Vesper is a beacon of hope and resilience. The 13-year-old girl, armed with exceptional bio-hacking skills, navigates a post-apocalyptic landscape where resources are scarce and survival is a daily battle. Clever and resourceful, Vesper faces overwhelming odds, but her determination never wavers.

The bleakness of the landscape is starkly contrasted by Vesper’s indomitable spirit. She does not wait for salvation; instead, she fights for it with every ounce of her being. Along her journey, she encounters a diverse cast of characters—some cruel and opportunistic, others kind and supportive. Each person she meets shapes her path and challenges her resolve, forcing her to confront difficult truths and make impossible choices.

“Vesper” presents a vision of the future that feels all too relevant to our present-day concerns. The film raises urgent questions about who controls the resources, who gets to live, and who is left behind. Through its captivating narrative and stunning visuals, the film invites viewers to ponder the ethical implications of genetic technology and the power dynamics at play in a world on the brink of collapse.

The story takes a poignant turn when Vesper rescues Camellia, a young woman from a citadel, promising to take Vesper and her father to a place of safety. As they search for another survivor, Elias, the bond between Vesper and Camellia deepens, adding layers of emotional complexity to the narrative.

“Vesper” is a beautifully crafted film that combines science fiction with a deeply human story of survival, resilience, and hope. It is a hauntingly evocative portrayal of a world where the line between savior and survivor is blurred, and where the fight for a better future is both a personal and collective struggle.

It is a vision of the future, but its questions are for now. Who controls the resources? Who gets to live? And who is left behind?

Stan & Ollie (2018) – BBC4 11.45pm

“Stan & Ollie” is a heartfelt biographical film that explores the final years of the legendary comedy duo, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. Laughter made them famous, but fame, like all things, fades with time. The once adored pair, who brought joy to millions with their slapstick humor, now find themselves struggling to fill theatres during their post-war tour of Britain in 1953.

The film captures the poignant reality of their later years, as the inseparable friends face diminishing audiences and the physical toll of age. Stan Laurel (Steve Coogan) and Oliver Hardy (John C. Reilly) deliver masterful performances, portraying the deep bond and unwavering friendship that define their relationship. Despite the challenges they face, their camaraderie and mutual respect never truly break.

“Stan & Ollie” is a gentle film, filled with nostalgia and a deep sense of affection for its subjects. It does not seek to shock or dramatize but instead offers a tender remembrance of two icons of comedy. Their final years were not easy, marked by health struggles and financial difficulties, but they had each other to lean on.

The film beautifully illustrates the evolution of comedy and the shifting tastes of audiences. While comedy changes and new stars emerge, the work of Laurel and Hardy remains timeless. Their influence on the genre is undeniable, and their routines continue to evoke laughter even now. “Stan & Ollie” serves as a touching tribute to their legacy, reminding us that behind the laughter were two men who shared an unbreakable bond and a passion for making people smile.

Friday 21st February 2025

Red Eye (2005) – GREAT!movies 9pm

“Red Eye,” directed by Wes Craven, is a taut and gripping thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The story revolves around Lisa Reisert (Rachel McAdams), a hotel manager who boards a late-night flight from Dallas to Miami. Expecting a routine trip, Lisa soon finds herself trapped in a nightmare when she meets Jackson Rippner (Cillian Murphy), a charming yet menacing stranger.

As the plane ascends, the tension escalates minute by minute. Jackson reveals his true intentions, coercing Lisa into assisting with a high-stakes assassination plot targeting a high-profile guest at her hotel. The confined space of the airplane amplifies the claustrophobic atmosphere, leaving Lisa with few options for escape.

Despite being clever and resourceful, Lisa faces a formidable adversary in Jackson, who is always one step ahead. The battle between them is as much psychological as it is physical, with mind games and threats intensifying the stakes. The film masterfully plays on the primal fear of being trapped and powerless, creating a relentless sense of suspense.

“Red Eye” excels in its simplicity and effectiveness. The plot unfolds with precision, building tension through expertly crafted scenes and sharp dialogue. Wes Craven’s direction ensures that every moment counts, making even the smallest details contribute to the overall sense of dread. Sometimes, fear needs no ghosts or monsters—just a locked door and no way out.

The performances by Rachel McAdams and Cillian Murphy are outstanding, with McAdams portraying Lisa’s vulnerability and determination, while Murphy’s chilling portrayal of Jackson adds to the film’s menacing aura. “Red Eye” is a testament to the power of a well-executed thriller, proving that sometimes the most terrifying scenarios are grounded in reality.

Lindisfarne’s Geordie Genius: The Alan Hull Story – BBC4 9pm

Alan Hull, the heart and soul of the folk-rock band Lindisfarne, was a musician who never chased fame but found it nonetheless. His songs resonated with the struggles and joys of ordinary lives, painting vivid pictures through poetic, political, and deeply personal lyrics. Hull’s music spoke to the hearts of many, capturing the essence of life in the North East of England.

“Lindisfarne’s Geordie Genius: The Alan Hull Story” is a heartfelt documentary that delves into the life and legacy of this remarkable artist. The film lets Hull’s music tell his story, showcasing the depth and authenticity of his songwriting. Through a blend of archival footage, interviews, and performances, viewers are taken on a journey through Hull’s career, from his early days with Lindisfarne to his solo work.

The documentary does not seek to sensationalize or dramatize Hull’s life. Instead, it offers a gentle and nostalgic reflection on his contributions to music and his impact on those around him. Hull’s words, whether addressing social issues or personal experiences, remain as relevant and powerful today as they were when first penned.

Hull was not a star in the traditional sense—he was a man who stayed true to his roots and his craft. His songs, filled with wit, warmth, and wisdom, continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring his legacy endures. The documentary serves as a reminder of the enduring power of music and the remarkable talent of Alan Hull.

Rock Goes To College BBC4 10pm

“Rock Goes to College” was a BBC series that showcased various rock bands performing live at university venues. Lindisfarne’s episode, first aired on November 17, 1978. It captures the band’s raw energy and charm in an intimate setting2. The performance highlights their unique blend of folk and rock, with Alan Hull’s distinctive voice and songwriting taking centre stage. The stripped-down, acoustic feel of the show allows the audience to experience Lindisfarne’s music in a personal and authentic way. This episode remains a cherished memory for fans, showcasing the band’s enduring appeal and musical talent.

And finally, Streaming

The Chief: All four episodes available from Thursday, 20th February 2025. Scot Squad comedy spin-off following pompous and out of touch Cameron Miekelson (Jack Docherty).

Zero Day: All six episodes available from Thursday, 20th February 2025. A political thriller set against a US under cyber attack where morality is less important than results.

Walter Presents: Evilside: All six episodes available from Friday, 21st February 2025 A bullied outcast on a remote island becomes the prime suspect in the ritualistic murder of her friend.

Video Picture Credits

Songs Inspired By The Movies At The BBC
An T-Eilean (The Island) – Sorcha Groundsell
By MTV UK – Sorcha Groundsell & Percelle Ascott Talk Sex Scenes – Netflix’s The Innocents – MTV Movies, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=116162815
A Quiet Place (2018)
By http://popcornhorror.com/5-horror-movies-whose-atmosphere-will-scare-hell/, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=56965271
Quo Vadis, Aida? (2020)
By http://www.impawards.com/intl/misc/2021/quo_vadis_aida.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=65554033
Notorious (1946)
By “Copyright 1946 RKO Radio Pictures Inc.” – Scan via Heritage Auctions. Cropped from the original image., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=87339746
Nixon In The Den
By Department of Defense. Department of the Army. Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations. U.S. Army Audiovisual Center. (ca. 1974 – 05/15/1984) – This file was derived from: Richard M. Nixon, ca. 1935 – 1982 – NARA – 530679.jpg:, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=92980570
Escaping Utopia
Protest against the cult – By Schwede66 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=94977675
Words On Bathroom Walls (2020)
By Studio and or Graphic Artist – Can be obtained from film’s distributor., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=64561738
Gaza: How To Survive A Warzone
The Real Stonehouse
John Stonehouse – By André Cros – This photograph is part of the Fonds André Cros, preserved by the city archives of Toulouse and released under CC BY-SA 4.0 license by the deliberation n°27.3 of June 23rd, 2017 of the Town Council of the City of Toulouse., CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=119124824
The Quiet Girl (2022)
By Inscéal – IMDB, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=70151764
Georgia Harrison, Porn, Power, Profit (Part One)
Shutterstock under license
Vesper
By kinopoisk.ru, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7187855071878550
Snowpiercer (2013)
By http://www.impawards.com/2013/snowpiercer_ver27_xlg.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=40911316
Georgia Harrison, Porn, Power, Profit (Part Two)
The Father (2020)
By IMP Awards / Intl > UK > 2020 Movie Poster Gallery / The Father Poster (#2 of 3), Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=63838973
Shayda (2023)
By IMDb, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=74709056
James May’s Great Explorers (Part Two)
Vesper (2022)
Stan & Ollie (2018)
By https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3385524/, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=58029929
Red Eye (2005)
By http://www.impawards.com/2005/red_eye_ver2.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1958423
Lindisfarne’s Geordie Genius: The Alan Hull Story
By Rodhullandemu – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4380270
Rock Goes To College
The Godfather (1972)
By http://www.movieposterdb.com/poster/ff7638bd, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6703024
Additional artwork from KollectivFutur

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Culture Vulture 8th to the 14th of February 2025

February 8, 2025 at 7:18 am · Filed under Culture Vulture, Film & DVD Reviews, TV Shows ·Tagged , , ,

Welcome to Culture Vulture your entertainment guide offering an alternative viewpoint on film, television, and music. Whether you’re drawn to thought-provoking film, you’ll find something intriguing here. If you enjoy compelling documentaries or crave the most striking performances, we have something to challenge and inspire you. Writing is by Pat Harrington, with music selections from Tim Bragg.

This week’s highlights include:

  • Blue Velvet (1986) – David Lynch’s eerie and surreal masterpiece delves into the hidden darkness beneath small-town America’s surface. It features unforgettable performances from Isabella Rossellini and Dennis Hopper.
  • The Rise and Fall of the American Rust Belt (PBS America) – A gripping documentary. It examines the economic decline and resilience of America’s industrial heartland. The film gives voice to those affected by deindustrialisation and corporate greed.
  • The Square (2017) – Ruben Östlund’s film is darkly satirical. It takes a sharp look at the hypocrisy of the contemporary art world. It examines these issues with precision.

Now, let’s dive into the full listings for the week ahead.

Saturday 8th of February 2025

Doctor Zhivago (1965) BBC2 1.15pm

Doctor Zhivago is a sweeping romantic epic set against the turbulence of the Russian Revolution. The film tells the life story of Yuri Zhivago (Omar Sharif). He is a doctor and poet. Yuri is torn between his love for two women—his devoted wife, Tonya (Geraldine Chaplin), and the enigmatic Lara (Julie Christie). As political upheaval engulfs the country, his personal struggles mirror the larger chaos of a collapsing empire. David Lean’s masterful direction and Maurice Jarre’s haunting score make this a visually stunning and emotionally poignant classic.

Sunday 9th of February 2025

Military Masterminds PBS America

2.45pm Rapid Dominance

This episode explores the theory of “shock and awe.” This is a military strategy designed to overwhelm an enemy with swift and overpowering force. The documentary analyses historical examples and modern applications. It shows how speed, precision, and psychological tactics can decide the outcome of war. This can happen before a battle has truly begun.

3.50pm Combat Power

This episode looks at the raw strength of armed forces. It examines advancements in weaponry, technology, and manpower. These advancements have shaped the world’s most formidable militaries. Featuring interviews with strategists and veterans, it highlights how brute force is balanced with strategy.

5.00pm Deception

Misdirection has always been a key element of warfare, from the Trojan Horse to modern cyber tactics. This episode explores the role of deception in military history. It shows how illusion and misinformation can be just as powerful as physical combat.

6.05pm Guerrilla Warfare

When direct confrontation is not an option, smaller forces resort to unconventional tactics. This episode showcases examples from the Vietnam War to modern insurgencies. It highlights how outnumbered and outgunned fighters have used terrain, surprise, and endurance to reshape conflicts.

An Evening With Nat King Cole BBC4 from 9pm

Includes Johnny Mathis: Tribute To Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole In Concert.

Few voices match the timeless appeal of Nat King Cole. His smooth baritone and effortless delivery made him one of the most beloved vocalists of all time. This special evening celebrates his legacy. It features performances from artists inspired by his work. These include Johnny Mathis and his own daughter, Natalie Cole. Classic songs like Unforgettable and Mona Lisa remain as captivating today as when they were first recorded.

Blue Velvet (1986) BBC2 10pm

One of my all-time favourites, Blue Velvet is a dark, hypnotic thriller from David Lynch. It peels back the seemingly idyllic surface of small-town America. It exposes something much more sinister. Kyle MacLachlan plays Jeffrey Beaumont. He is a college student who stumbles upon a severed ear. He is drawn into a twisted world of crime, violence, and obsession. His investigation leads him to nightclub singer Dorothy Vallens (Isabella Rossellini). Her life is controlled by the brutal and sadistic Frank Booth. Dennis Hopper gives an unforgettable performance as Frank Booth. The film masterfully blends dreamlike imagery with nightmarish intensity, capturing a world where innocence is devoured by corruption. Rossellini delivers a raw, heartbreaking performance, while Hopper’s Frank Booth remains one of the most terrifying villains in cinema history. Blue Velvet contains an unsettling atmosphere. It features a haunting score. Its surreal visuals create a masterpiece.

The Elephant Man (1980) BBC2 11.55pm

This deeply moving film is directed by David Lynch. It tells the true story of John Merrick (John Hurt). Merrick was a man suffering from severe physical deformities. He is mistreated and exploited in Victorian England. Rescued by the compassionate Dr. Treves (Anthony Hopkins), Merrick finds dignity and kindness in a world that initially only sees him as a sideshow curiosity. Hurt’s performance is both heartbreaking and dignified, capturing Merrick’s gentle soul and intelligence beneath his outward appearance. Shot in stunning black and white, The Elephant Man is a powerful meditation on humanity, cruelty, and acceptance. Lynch abandons his usual surrealism for a more restrained approach. The experience remains haunting. This makes it one of the most affecting and beautifully crafted biographical films ever made.

Monday 10th of February 2025

The Quiet Man (1952) Film4 4.05pm

John Ford’s The Quiet Man is a lyrical, beautifully shot romance. It stars John Wayne as an American boxer. He returns to his ancestral home in Ireland, hoping for a peaceful life. However, he falls in love with the spirited Mary Kate (Maureen O’Hara). This love leads to conflict with her hot-tempered brother. The result is one of the most famous brawls in cinema history. Full of warmth, humour, and stunning Irish landscapes, this film celebrates love. It also celebrates tradition and the power of home.

The Rise And Fall Of The American Rust Belt PBS America 8.35pm

The Rust Belt was once the backbone of American industry. It was a region where steel mills, automobile factories, and manufacturing plants provided stable jobs. They ensured economic security for millions. This documentary explores how a thriving blue-collar workforce was transformed. It became a landscape of abandoned factories, unemployment, and urban decline. Globalisation, automation, and outsourcing reshaped the economy. With powerful first-hand accounts from workers, industry leaders, and economic experts, the film traces the trajectory of these once-prosperous cities. It covers areas from Detroit to Pittsburgh. The film examines the consequences for communities left struggling in the aftermath. The documentary also highlights the resilience of those who have sought to rebuild. It focuses on revitalisation efforts, new industries, and grassroots movements. These are aimed at reclaiming the region’s identity in a post-industrial world.

Tuesday 11th of February 2025

The Black Phone (2021) Film4 9pm

A tense and gripping horror-thriller, The Black Phone follows Finney (Mason Thames). He is a young boy kidnapped by a sadistic killer called The Grabber (Ethan Hawke). Locked in a soundproof basement, Finney begins receiving calls from the spirits of the killer’s past victims. They guide him in his fight for survival. A chilling mix of supernatural horror and psychological suspense, this film delivers both scares and heart.

Storyville BBC4 10pm

A deep-dive documentary series exploring extraordinary real-life stories from around the world. This episode investigates a gripping, true crime mystery. It blends interviews, archival footage, and investigative journalism. These elements reveal shocking twists and hidden truths. This episode explores the story of the San Quentin’s jail running club. The inmates train all year round for a prison marathon.

Wednesday 12th of February 2025

Locke (2013) Film4 2.05am

Tom Hardy delivers a powerhouse solo performance. This real-time drama follows construction manager Ivan Locke. He takes a fateful drive that will change his life forever. He juggles phone calls involving his job. He also manages those about his family and a personal crisis. We witness a man desperately trying to keep control of his life. Locke is a minimalist film, but it is deeply compelling. It proves that sometimes, all you need is a great actor and a gripping script.

Thursday 13th of February 2025

The Square (2017) Film4 12.35am

A razor-sharp satire of the contemporary art world, The Square follows Christian (Claes Bang), a prestigious museum curator. His latest installation—a conceptual piece meant to promote trust and altruism—sets off a chain of events. These events spiral out of control. As his carefully constructed life begins to unravel, the film exposes the contradictions of elite artistic circles and modern morality. The film presents moments of absurdity and dark humour. It also includes social critique. Ruben Östlund’s Palme d’Or-winning film challenges audiences to examine their own ethical boundaries.

Friday 14th of February 2025

Are You Being Served? Secrets And Scandals Channel 5 9pm

Behind the scenes of the classic British sticom starring John Inman, Molie Sugden and Frank Thornton. The programme describes the battle to keep it on screen and the personal tragedies that hit some of the staff.

Long Shot (2019) BBC1 11.30pm

A sharp and refreshingly modern political rom-com, Long Shot stars Charlize Theron as Charlotte Field. She is a powerful and ambitious Secretary of State. Charlotte is preparing a run for the presidency. Her career is carefully managed, her public image meticulously crafted, and her ambitions are set sky-high. In an unexpected twist, she reconnects with her former childhood neighbor, Fred Flarsky (Seth Rogen). He is an eccentric, socially awkward, and idealistic journalist. Fred has just quit his job in protest. Despite their vastly different worlds, sparks begin to fly between them in a way neither could have predicted.

The heart of the film lies in its odd-couple chemistry. Theron and Rogen make an unlikely but endearing duo. Theron brings grace, intelligence, and emotional depth to her role. Rogen adds his trademark scruffy charm and self-deprecating humor. Their relationship is filled with hilarious clashes. Fred struggles to fit into Charlotte’s polished, high-society world. Meanwhile, Charlotte finds herself in absurdly compromising situations due to Fred’s lack of political finesse. The film mines these contrasts for comedy. It also manages to ground their romance in genuine affection and mutual respect. This makes their growing relationship feel surprisingly authentic.

Beyond the romance, Long Shot offers sharp political satire. It pokes fun at the often-ridiculous demands of public office. It highlights the pressures of maintaining an idealized public image. The film reveals the compromises politicians must make to survive in the modern media landscape. The film addresses issues of sexism and media scrutiny. It also examines the absurd expectations placed on women in power. However, it keeps its message light and accessible. It never feels preachy. Instead, it highlights the absurdities of the system through clever dialogue and biting humor.

What sets Long Shot apart from other rom-coms is its balance of humor and heartfelt sincerity. It embraces laugh-out-loud moments, which include some signature Rogen-style crudeness. Yet, it also takes the time to explore deeper themes of integrity and self-doubt. The film looks into the sacrifices required for success. Theron’s character, in particular, experiences moments of vulnerability. These moments reveal the loneliness and pressure that come with a life in the public eye. Meanwhile, Rogen’s Fred brings a refreshing sense of idealism. He forces Charlotte to confront what she’s willing to compromise for political gain.

Long Shot is a charming romantic comedy. It is surprisingly insightful. The film delivers both sharp laughs and a touching love story. Theron and Rogen deliver excellent performances. The witty script and clever critique of modern politics also shine. The film offers far more depth than its premise might initially suggest. Stay up to watch this film if you want a heartfelt romance. Stay up if you want political satire or just a good laugh.

And finally, Streaming

Walter Presents: R.I.P. Henry – all eight episodes available from Friday 14th February 2025.

Surgeon Henry learns that he has a brain tumor. He searches for a cure. Will he find one and can he come to terms with his feelings? This is a great Norwegian drama.

Bloodline Detectives – new episodes available from Friday 14th February 2025.

This true-crime American series explores how cutting-edge DNA technology is solving cold cases. It brings long-awaited justice to families. It reveals shocking truths hidden for decades.

Picture Credits

Doctor Zhivago
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An Evening With Nat King Cole
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Blue Velvet
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The Elephant Man
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The Quiet Man
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The Rise And Fall Of The American Rust Belt
The Black Phone
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Long Shot
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San Quentin
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