This week brings a diverse array of films available on television and streaming platforms, ranging from rural dramas to thrilling mysteries. Here are seven films that stand out among the offerings.
“Harvest,” directed by Athina Rachel Tsangari and adapted from Jim Crace’s novel, transports viewers to an unnamed Scottish village where social tensions simmer over land and power disputes. Harry Melling portrays Master Kent, the overseer of agricultural workers. Conflict arises with the arrival of his cousin, who plans to enclose communal land for sheep farming, posing a threat to the village’s traditional lifestyle. This film delves into themes of class disparity, community evolution, and the impact of economic dominance. Catch it on BBC Two on Friday, September 4, at 11:05 p.m.
“The Whisper Man” offers a gripping narrative of suspense. It follows Tom, a widowed crime writer whose young son is kidnapped under circumstances eerily reminiscent of a notorious serial killer’s past crimes. As Tom’s estranged father Peter, a retired detective, had previously apprehended the original Whisper Man, the film raises questions about a potential copycat or a miscarriage of justice. This thriller is available on Netflix.
Another highlight is “Black Panther,” directed by Ryan Coogler. This Marvel film tells the story of T’Challa, king of Wakanda, as he struggles with challenges to his throne and grapples with themes of power, identity, and Wakanda’s connection to the outside world. Starring Chadwick Boseman, with notable performances by Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o, and Danai Gurira, it airs on Channel 4 on Saturday, August 29, at 8 p.m.
Meanwhile, “Lee” features Kate Winslet as Lee Miller, a renowned war photographer, in a biographical drama directed by Ellen Kuras. The film chronicles Miller’s experiences during World War II, including her coverage of the London Blitz, European liberation, and Nazi concentration camps. This poignant tale of her dedication to capturing the harsh realities of war can be watched on Sky Atlantic on Saturday, August 29, at 9 p.m.
Science fiction enthusiasts can enjoy Luc Besson’s “The Fifth Element,” set in the 23rd century. Bruce Willis stars as a taxi driver who finds himself in a high-stakes mission to save Earth from a looming evil. Alongside Milla Jovovich as Leeloo, a mysterious warrior, the film offers a blend of action, sci-fi, and humor within a unique futuristic universe. It airs on Sky Sci-Fi on Monday, August 31, at 7 p.m.
For fans of classic cinema, Arthur Penn’s “Little Big Man” is a revisionist western featuring Dustin Hoffman as Jack Crabb, a man recounting a life lived between Native American and white societies. Exploring themes of cultural conflict and identity, this film presents a rich tapestry of Crabb’s extraordinary experiences. Tune in to 5Action on Wednesday, September 2, at 11:45 a.m.
Finally, Sean Baker’s “Anora” tells the story of a Brooklyn stripper, played by Mikey Madison, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she falls for the son of a wealthy Russian family, portrayed by Mark Eydelshteyn. Blending comedy with drama, the film explores Anora’s attempts to navigate her new life amidst familial opposition. This film is available on Netflix starting Thursday, September 3.