4,605 words, 24 minutes read time.
Welcome to Culture Vulture, your guide to the week’s entertainment from an alternative standpoint. Selections and writing is by Pat Harrington and music is from Tim Nragg. Highlights this week include:
“The Magnificent Seven” (1960) – BBC2, Sunday 25th August, 12.55pm: A classic Western that explores themes of justice and redemption as seven mercenaries come together to protect a helpless village from bandits.
“The Shallows” (2016) – GREAT!movies, Wednesday 28th August, 9pm: A gripping survival thriller that pits a lone surfer against a relentless shark, testing her resolve and resourcefulness as she fights to stay alive.
“The Departed” (2006) – Film4, Friday 30th August, 9pm: Martin Scorsese’s intense crime drama delves into the intertwined lives of an undercover cop and a mob mole, exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and the corrupting influence of power.
Saturday 24th of August 2024
Spellbound (1945) 1pm BBC2
“Spellbound,” directed by Alfred Hitchcock, is a psychological thriller that dives deep into the complexities of the human mind. The film uses the backdrop of psychoanalysis to explore how trauma shapes and controls a person’s actions and perceptions. Through the character of Dr. Constance Petersen, the film demonstrates how a woman’s resolve can break through societal expectations, challenging the norms of her profession and her time. The plot intertwines a romance with an exploration of guilt, innocence, and memory, asking how far one should go to unravel the truth. The dream sequences designed by Salvador Dalí offer a vivid representation of the inner struggles faced by the characters, particularly those tormented by the weight of their past. In its final moments, “Spellbound” leaves the audience questioning the thin line between reality and illusion, and how our understanding of both can be manipulated by those around us.
The Remarkable Miss North 7.10pm PBS America
“The Remarkable Miss North” is a biographical drama that highlights the life and struggles of a pioneering woman in a time when the world was not ready for her brilliance. Set against a backdrop of changing times, the film portrays the journey of Miss North as she challenges the male-dominated fields she finds herself in, whether they be in education, science, or leadership. Her character is depicted as both resilient and vulnerable, allowing viewers to see the sacrifices made in the pursuit of progress. Through her interactions with both allies and adversaries, the film illustrates the pressures placed on individuals who step out of the societal norms, and the consequences of challenging the status quo. The film is a powerful reminder of the invisible barriers that still exist, and the courage it takes to push past them.
Sunday 25th of August 2024
The Magnificent Seven (1960) 12.55pm BBC2
John Sturges’ The Magnificent Seven is often hailed as one of the greatest Westerns of all time, but its roots stretch far beyond the American frontier. The film is a remake of Akira Kurosawa’s 1954 masterpiece Seven Samurai, a Japanese film that explores similar themes of honor, sacrifice, and the moral responsibilities of those who wield power. In The Magnificent Seven, the samurai are transformed into gunslingers, and the feudal Japanese village into a poor Mexican one, yet the core narrative remains the same: a group of skilled warriors coming together to defend the defenseless against overwhelming odds.
The film centers around seven mercenaries, each with a unique background and motivation, who are hired by a small Mexican village to protect them from a band of marauding bandits led by the ruthless Calvera. The bandits regularly pillage the village, taking food and resources, leaving the villagers on the brink of starvation. The narrative raises important questions about justice and the role of the powerful in protecting the powerless. Through their decision to defend the village, the seven gunfighters challenge the traditional Western trope of the lone hero, instead presenting a narrative where collective action and solidarity are the keys to confronting oppression.
Each of the seven gunfighters is driven by different motivations, from the desire for money, fame, or redemption, to a simple sense of duty. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the act of defending the village transforms each of them. The film delves into the internal conflicts of these characters, exploring how their experiences shape their sense of identity and purpose. For some, this journey is redemptive; for others, it becomes a tragic confrontation with their own mortality. This character-driven storytelling provides a deep emotional core to the film, making the inevitable final showdown more than just a battle of good versus evil but a reckoning with their own pasts and choices.
The Mexican village, much like the village in Seven Samurai, serves as a microcosm for larger societal issues. The villagers are portrayed as humble and hardworking, yet powerless against the forces that exploit them. The stark contrast between the village’s poverty and the gunfighters’ rugged independence highlights the inequities of the world they inhabit. The film suggests that the true measure of heroism lies not in one’s ability to wield a weapon but in one’s willingness to fight for those who cannot defend themselves. The camaraderie that develops among the seven, and their growing connection to the villagers, speaks to the potential for unity and mutual aid in the face of overwhelming adversity.
The final battle between the seven and Calvera’s men is not just a physical confrontation but a symbolic struggle between the ideals of justice and the harsh realities of the world. The film does not shy away from the costs of such a struggle, with several of the seven meeting their end in the process. In this way, The Magnificent Seven reflects the cyclical nature of violence, a theme that is also central to Seven Samurai. The film ends on a somber note, with the surviving gunfighters acknowledging that while they have won the battle, it is the villagers who have truly won, as they can now continue their lives in peace, free from the shadow of oppression.
Ultimately, The Magnificent Seven is a rich exploration of the responsibilities that come with power, the moral complexities of violence, and the enduring human desire for justice. It pays homage to its source material, Seven Samurai, while adapting its themes to the context of the American West. The film’s lasting impact on cinema can be seen in its influence on subsequent Westerns and action films, and its themes continue to resonate, reminding audiences of the universal struggle for dignity and justice in a world often defined by inequality and exploitation.
The Drop (2014) 11.05pm C4
“The Drop,” directed by Michaël R. Roskam, is a crime drama that examines the quiet, pervasive corruption within an urban neighborhood. The film follows Bob, a bartender, and his involvement in a scheme where criminal money is laundered through the bar he works at. The narrative slowly unravels to reveal the interconnectedness of small-time crime and how ordinary people are drawn into its web. Through its character-driven storytelling, “The Drop” highlights the moral ambiguities that come with survival in a world where the lines between right and wrong are blurred. The film’s setting, a gritty, working-class neighborhood, adds to the tension, creating an atmosphere where trust is scarce, and betrayal is common. The interactions between the characters reveal the complexities of loyalty, with each person struggling to navigate a world where safety and danger coexist. “The Drop” leaves the audience pondering the compromises one must make to protect themselves and those they care about.
Monday 26th of August 2024
Oliver! (1968) 3.45pm Film4
Oliver! is a vibrant and emotionally resonant adaptation of Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist, brought to life through the medium of musical theatre. Directed by Carol Reed, the film captures the essence of Dickens’ critique of Victorian society while infusing it with the energy and charm of a musical. The film’s musical score, composed by Lionel Bart, plays a crucial role in this adaptation, transforming the grim realities of the story into memorable and uplifting tunes that stay with the audience long after the credits roll. Songs like “Consider Yourself,” “As Long As He Needs Me,” and “Food, Glorious Food” are not only catchy but also serve as narrative devices that deepen the characterization and underscore the film’s central themes of survival, community, and the longing for a better life.
The character of Fagin, played by Ron Moody, is one of the most complex figures in the film, embodying both the charm and the menace that Dickens originally intended. Moody’s portrayal strikes a delicate balance, making Fagin a figure of both pity and suspicion. The film navigates the delicate task of portraying Fagin, a character historically criticized for perpetuating anti-Semitic stereotypes, with a mix of whimsy and pathos. While Fagin is shown as the leader of a gang of child pickpockets, the film also imbues him with a sense of humanity, particularly in his more reflective moments, such as in the song “Reviewing the Situation.” This song allows the audience to glimpse Fagin’s vulnerability and his awareness of the precariousness of his position, revealing the internal conflict of a man caught between his survival instincts and a desire for redemption.
One of the intriguing historical aspects of Oliver! is its depiction of the Cockneys as inhabitants of Central London, rather than the East End or South London as commonly associated today. In the 19th century, when Dickens wrote Oliver Twist, the Cockney community was indeed based in areas like Covent Garden, Clerkenwell, and Soho. The film captures this historical detail, placing Oliver and the other characters in a Central London that is bustling, vibrant, and full of stark contrasts. This setting adds to the film’s authenticity, grounding the story in a specific time and place that reflects the social realities of Dickensian London. The cramped streets, shadowy alleyways, and lively markets are not just a backdrop but an integral part of the narrative, symbolizing the harsh conditions and the stark divide between the rich and the poor.
The musical score of Oliver! enhances the film’s exploration of these social themes, using its songs to comment on the characters’ circumstances and aspirations. The opening number, “Food, Glorious Food,” sung by the orphaned boys, immediately sets the tone for the film, highlighting their hunger and desperation while also introducing a sense of camaraderie among the children. The jaunty tune of “Consider Yourself,” performed by the Artful Dodger and Oliver, contrasts sharply with the underlying reality of their lives as street urchins, offering a glimpse into how these children find joy and friendship despite their dire situations. The music, therefore, not only entertains but also serves as a tool for deeper storytelling, providing insight into the characters’ inner lives and the world they inhabit.
In addition to its rich musical score, Oliver! offers a nuanced portrayal of the various social strata of Victorian London. The film moves seamlessly from the grim workhouse to the lively underworld of Fagin’s den and the upper-class household of Mr. Brownlow. Each of these settings is brought to life through both the production design and the music, which shifts in tone and style to reflect the different worlds that Oliver encounters. This shifting perspective allows the film to explore the social inequalities of the time, showing how Oliver, a child of no status or wealth, is able to move between these worlds due to his inherent goodness and the kindness of others.
Ultimately, Oliver! is more than just a musical; it is a poignant social commentary wrapped in the guise of entertainment. It captures the spirit of Dickens’ novel while using the power of song to highlight the emotional highs and lows of the characters’ journeys. The film’s depiction of Central London as the heart of the Cockney community adds an additional layer of historical accuracy, reminding viewers of the changing geography of London over time. Through its unforgettable characters, stirring music, and richly detailed world, Oliver! continues to resonate with audiences as a story of resilience, hope, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.
Titanic: The Musical 7pm Sky Arts
“Titanic: The Musical” transforms the tragic sinking of the Titanic into a powerful narrative about human ambition, class division, and the fragility of life. Through its music and lyrics, the show brings to the forefront the stories of the ship’s passengers, from the wealthy elite to the impoverished immigrants seeking a new life in America. The juxtaposition of these different lives onboard the same ill-fated vessel underscores the stark contrasts in their experiences, both in life and death. The musical delves into the hubris of those who believed the Titanic to be unsinkable, a symbol of mankind’s overconfidence in its own creations. As the ship meets its tragic end, the musical prompts reflection on the responsibilities of leadership and the moral implications of choices made in the face of disaster. “Titanic: The Musical” is not just a retelling of a historical event but a poignant exploration of the human condition under extraordinary circumstances.
The Damned United (2009) 11pm BBC1
“The Damned United,” directed by Tom Hooper, offers an intimate look at the intense pressures and personal struggles of a football manager during one of the most turbulent periods of his career. The film focuses on Brian Clough’s brief tenure at Leeds United, a time marked by conflict, ego, and ambition. Through Clough’s journey, the film explores the complex nature of leadership, as well as the burdens of expectation and the consequences of hubris. The tension between Clough and the players, as well as with the club’s management, serves as a lens through which the film examines the difficulties of enacting change in a resistant environment. The portrayal of Clough’s internal battles, his determination to prove himself, and his ultimate fall from grace, offer a powerful commentary on the personal cost of pursuing greatness in a world that often values results over humanity. “The Damned United” is a gripping tale of ambition, rivalry, and the fine line between success and failure.
Tuesday 27th of August 2024
Carlito’s Way (1993) 11.05pm Film 4
“Carlito’s Way,” directed by Brian De Palma, is a story of redemption, loyalty, and the inescapable pull of the past. The film follows Carlito Brigante, a former drug lord trying to leave his criminal life behind after being released from prison. However, as Carlito attempts to build a new life, he finds himself repeatedly drawn back into the violent world he wants to escape. The film highlights the challenges faced by those trying to break free from a cycle of crime and violence, and the ways in which the past can hold a grip on the present. Carlito’s relationships with those around him, particularly his lawyer and his girlfriend, reflect the difficulty of maintaining personal integrity in a corrupt world. The film’s setting, in the gritty streets of New York, adds to the sense of inevitability that pervades Carlito’s journey. “Carlito’s Way” is a powerful exploration of the struggle for redemption and the forces that conspire to pull one back into darkness.
Wednesday 28th of August 2024
The Massacre That Shook The Empire 7.30 PBS America
The Massacre That Shook The Empire delves into a tragic and pivotal moment in history that had profound implications for an entire nation and the world beyond. The documentary examines the events leading up to the massacre, the day itself, and its lasting impact on the collective memory of a people under colonial rule. Through interviews, archival footage, and expert commentary, the film highlights the disconnect between those who wield power and those who suffer under it. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919 serves as a stark reminder of the brutal lengths to which a regime will go to maintain control and the deep scars such actions leave on the communities affected. The documentary also explores the aftermath, particularly how the massacre galvanized resistance and became a rallying point for a movement seeking to reclaim autonomy and dignity. By focusing on personal stories and broader historical contexts, the film paints a vivid picture of a world in transition, where the quest for justice is met with the harsh realities of oppression
Wellington v. Napoleon: The Aftermath of Waterloo 8.30pm PBS America
Wellington v. Napoleon: The Aftermath of Waterloo provides an in-depth exploration of one of the most famous battles in history, focusing not just on the clash of military titans but on the far-reaching consequences of their encounter. The documentary shifts the spotlight from the battlefield to the political chessboard of post-Napoleonic Europe, where the victory at Waterloo set the stage for a new world order. It examines how the defeat of Napoleon reshaped borders, influenced alliances, and dictated the fates of nations for decades to come. Through a detailed analysis of the aftermath, the film reveals how the victors sought to impose a new stability, often at the expense of those they governed. The documentary also looks at the personal journeys of Wellington and Napoleon in the wake of Waterloo, offering insights into how each man grappled with the legacy of the battle. This focus on the human element, intertwined with the broader geopolitical shifts, makes the film a compelling study of power, ambition, and the far-reaching consequences of war.
The Shallows (2016) 9pm GREAT!movies
The Shallows, directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, is a tense survival thriller that pits a lone woman against the forces of nature. The film follows Nancy, a young surfer who finds herself stranded on a rock, just a short distance from shore but with a great white shark circling between her and safety. At its core, the film is an exploration of resilience and the human instinct to survive against overwhelming odds. Nancy’s struggle is not just against the shark, but against the isolation and fear that threaten to overwhelm her as she fights to stay alive. The film subtly touches on themes of privilege and resourcefulness, showing how Nancy, with her medical training and access to technology, uses every tool at her disposal to survive. The natural setting, a seemingly idyllic but ultimately perilous beach, underscores the tension between humanity and the untamed world, highlighting how small and vulnerable we are in the face of nature’s vast and indifferent power. The Shallows is a gripping reminder of the primal struggle for survival and the inner strength required to confront the unknown.
Thursday 29th of August 2024
Classic Movies: The Story Of I’m All Right Jack 8pm Sky Arts
Classic Movies: The Story of I’m All Right Jack offers a retrospective on the 1959 British satire that brilliantly skewers the absurdities of industrial relations in post-war Britain. The film, directed by John Boulting, follows the hapless Stanley Windrush as he navigates the labyrinth of a British factory, becoming a pawn in the hands of both the management and the union. Through its sharp wit and biting humour, the film critiques the entrenched attitudes and self-serving behaviours that define both sides of the labour divide. The documentary explores how I’m All Right Jack reflects the tensions of a society grappling with the realities of modernization, where old hierarchies are challenged but not easily dismantled. It also delves into the film’s portrayal of the British class system, where everyone—from the factory floor to the boardroom—is depicted as complicit in maintaining a dysfunctional status quo. The story of the film itself is a window into a time when British cinema was not afraid to tackle the pressing issues of the day with a mix of humor and sharp social commentary.
Friday 30th of August 2024
Gilda (1946) 9am Talking Pictures
Gilda, directed by Charles Vidor and starring Rita Hayworth, is a film noir classic that delves into the darker aspects of desire, power, and manipulation. Set in Buenos Aires, the film centres around the volatile relationship between Gilda, her husband Ballin Mundson, and his right-hand man Johnny Farrell. Gilda is portrayed as both a victim and a manipulator, a woman whose independence and sexuality make her both desirable and dangerous in a world dominated by men. The film explores the dynamics of control within relationships, particularly how Gilda’s attempts to assert her agency are met with suspicion and hostility. The setting, a luxurious casino, contrasts sharply with the undercurrents of deceit and betrayal that drive the plot, highlighting the duality of appearance and reality. Through its complex characters and morally ambiguous narrative, Gilda offers a reflection on the consequences of unchecked ambition and the often-destructive nature of love and desire. The film’s iconic scenes, particularly Hayworth’s performance of “Put the Blame on Mame,” have become emblematic of the femme fatale archetype, showcasing how female power is both feared and fetishized in cinema.
Prince Albert: A Victorian Hero Revealed 6.40pm PBS America
Prince Albert: A Victorian Hero Revealed is a documentary that re-examines the life and legacy of Prince Albert, consort to Queen Victoria, shedding light on his role in shaping the modern British monarchy and society. The film explores Albert’s efforts to modernize Britain through his advocacy for science, education, and the arts, highlighting his vision of a progressive, enlightened society. Albert’s influence extended beyond the royal family, as he played a key role in events such as the Great Exhibition of 1851, which showcased the advancements of the Industrial Revolution. The documentary also delves into Albert’s personal challenges, including his struggle to find his place in a society that was often resistant to change and his efforts to navigate the complexities of his marriage to Queen Victoria. Through interviews with historians and archival material, the film paints a portrait of Albert as a forward-thinking leader whose contributions were often overshadowed by his royal status. It invites viewers to reconsider his legacy, not just as a royal consort but as a key figure in the development of modern Britain.
The Departed (2006) 9pm Film4
The Departed, directed by Martin Scorsese, is a gripping crime drama that explores themes of identity, loyalty, and betrayal in the underworld of Boston. The film, a remake of the Hong Kong classic Infernal Affairs, follows two men on opposite sides of the law: Billy Costigan, an undercover cop infiltrating a crime syndicate, and Colin Sullivan, a mob mole within the police force. As both men navigate their dangerous double lives, the film examines the moral ambiguity of their actions and the thin line between good and evil. The characters’ struggles to maintain their identities while playing roles dictated by their circumstances highlight the pressures of living in a world where loyalty is a commodity and trust is a rare and valuable currency. The film’s portrayal of the corrupting influence of power, both in the criminal underworld and within the police force, offers a stark commentary on the compromises individuals make to survive in a system rigged against them. The Departed is a tense, tightly woven narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, questioning who the real villains are and whether redemption is possible in a world built on deception.
Later Present Elvis Costello In Concert 10.40pm BBC4
Later Presents Elvis Costello In Concert is a showcase of one of the most influential and versatile musicians of his generation. The concert, part of the iconic Later… with Jools Holland series, captures Costello’s ability to blend genres and styles, from punk and new wave to jazz and classical, reflecting his deep understanding of music’s power to connect and communicate. Costello’s lyrics, often laced with irony and wit, touch on a range of themes, offering insights into the human condition and the world around us. The performance highlights his unique voice, both literally and figuratively, as he addresses complex emotions and social issues through his music. The concert format allows Costello to engage directly with his audience, creating an intimate atmosphere that showcases his skill as a live performer. For both longtime fans and newcomers, this concert is a testament to Elvis Costello’s enduring relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of popular music.
and streaming…
“Terminator Zero” is a gripping new anime series set to premiere on Netflix on August 29, 2024. The show promises to blend intense action with a deep sci-fi narrative, featuring a voice cast led by Timothy Olyphant and Rosario Dawson. Set in a dystopian future where humanity is at war with an endless army of machines, the story follows a soldier sent back in time to change the fate of humanity. She arrives in 1997 to protect a scientist named Malcolm Lee, who is on the brink of launching a new AI system that could rival Skynet’s dominance. The series will explore the moral complexities of technology and its impact on human destiny, all while delivering thrilling adventures across its eight-episode first season.
The anticipation for “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” Season 2 is palpable, with Prime Video set to release the first three episodes on August 29, 2024. This season promises to delve deeper into the darkness as Sauron returns, cast out by Galadriel and without an army or allies. The Dark Lord must rely on his cunning to rebuild his strength and oversee the creation of the Rings of Power, which he intends to use to bind the peoples of Middle-earth to his will. As the epic narrative unfolds, beloved characters will face new challenges and darkness, testing friendships and alliances. The season will continue to build on the grand scale and ambition of the first, with subsequent episodes released weekly, leading to a finale on October 3, 2024.
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Picture Credits
Spellbound (1945)
By http://www.impawards.com, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7097293
Miss Marianne North
By Julia Margaret Cameron (1815–1879) – http://www.nla.gov.au/exhibitions/ellisrowan/officers_wife.html, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3340357
The Magnificent Seven (1960)
Copyright © 1960 – United Artists Corporation.” – Scan via Heritage Auctions. Cropped from the original image., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=88145440
The Drop (2014)
By May be found at the following website: IMDb.com, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=42513437
Oliver! (1968)
By Oliver1968.co.uk – UK quad., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6697563
Titanic: The Musical
By http://www.tonyawards.com/images/pics/large/b_p_TitanicANewMusical.jpg, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=35290961
The Damned United (2009)
By http://images.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http://images.mirror.co.uk/upl/m4/mar2009/2/8/image-1-for-the-damned-united-gallery-608466714.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.mirror.co.uk/2009/03/20/the-damned-united-115875-21213898/&usg=__mmgMBoWFTXDbX_w1sOaxUuLcx34=&h=338&w=450&sz=30&hl=en&start=12&tbnid=P1F5eRDTT-gYEM:&tbnh=95&tbnw=127&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dthe%2Bdamned%2Bunited%26gbv%3D2%26hl%3Den, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=24106284
Carlito’s Way (1993)
By http://www.impawards.com/1993/carlitos_way.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3950022
The Massacre That Shook The Empire
By Sukanta Pal – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=38059321
Wellington v. Napoleon: The Aftermath of Waterloo
Napoleon. Public Domain.
The Story Of I’m All Right Jack
By British Lion Films – http://www.moviegoods.com/movie_poster/im_all_right_jack_1959.htm, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=39470503
The Shallows (2016)
By The poster art can or could be obtained from Columbia Pictures., Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=49562440
Gilda (1946)
By Robert Coburn – Scan via Heritage Auctions. Cropped from the original image., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=88142536
Prince Albert: A Victorian Hero Revealed
By John Jabez Edwin Mayal – Royal Collection Fenton & CameronRoyal Collection RCIN 2931343, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=114409289
The Departed (2006)
Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=9822901
Elivis Costello
By Robman94 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=21420918
