This week presents an eclectic mix of films available on television and streaming platforms, ranging from rural dramas to thrilling mysteries. Here are seven films you might find intriguing.
Athina Rachel Tsangari’s “Harvest,” adapted from Jim Crace’s novel, unfolds in an unnamed rural Scottish village where the fabric of the community is threatened by power struggles and social inequality. Harry Melling portrays Master Kent, a figure of authority among agricultural workers. The narrative intensifies with the arrival of Kent’s cousin, who intends to enclose the common land for sheep farming, challenging the village’s traditional lifestyle. This film delves into themes of class division and the impact of economic power on changing communities. Catch it on BBC Two this Friday, September 4, at 11:05 p.m.
“The Whisper Man” offers a gripping storyline involving Tom, a widowed crime writer whose young son is abducted under circumstances echoing the crimes of a notorious serial killer. Tom’s relationship with his estranged father Peter, a former detective who initially captured the original Whisper Man, becomes central to the unfolding investigation. The film explores whether a copycat is at work or if justice was previously served incorrectly. This suspenseful narrative is available to stream on Netflix.
Meanwhile, Ryan Coogler’s “Black Panther” takes viewers to the fictional African nation of Wakanda. T’Challa, the king of Wakanda played by Chadwick Boseman, faces challenges to his rule while dealing with issues of power, identity, and Wakanda’s interaction with the outside world. Supported by a talented cast including Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira, and Letitia Wright, this film can be seen on Channel 4 on Saturday, August 29, at 8 p.m.
Kate Winslet stars as the formidable war photographer Lee Miller in “Lee,” directed by Ellen Kuras. The biographical drama highlights Miller’s experiences documenting pivotal moments of World War II, including the London Blitz, European liberation, and the discovery of Nazi concentration camps. This film underscores her resolve to capture the harsh truths of war, airing on Sky Atlantic on Saturday, August 29, at 9 p.m.
For science fiction fans, Luc Besson’s “The Fifth Element” presents an adventure set in the 23rd century, where Bruce Willis stars as a taxi driver thrust into a mission to save Earth from impending doom. Milla Jovovich portrays Leeloo, a key figure in humanity’s survival. This film uniquely blends action, sci-fi, and comedy, set against a futuristically creative backdrop. It airs on Sky Sci-Fi on Monday, August 31, at 7 p.m.
In Arthur Penn’s “Little Big Man,” Dustin Hoffman takes on the role of Jack Crabb, recounting his life story which spans his upbringing among Native Americans and subsequent experiences in white society. This revisionist western explores themes of cultural conflict and identity. Tune in on 5Action on Wednesday, September 2, at 11:45 a.m.
Lastly, Sean Baker’s “Anora” follows the life of a Brooklyn stripper, Anora, played by Mikey Madison, whose world takes a turn when she meets Ivan, the son of a wealthy Russian family. The film intertwines comedy and drama as Anora navigates the challenges posed by Ivan’s influential family while attempting to forge a new path. “Anora” is available for streaming on Netflix starting Thursday, September 3.