From Psychological Thrillers to Football Scandals: Your Weekend TV & Film Guide
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A diverse slate of programming awaits viewers this weekend, ranging from gripping psychological thrillers and shocking sports documentaries to comforting angling adventures and classic crime dramas. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the highlights, ensuring there’s something to captivate every taste.
Unraveling Secrets and Facing the Past: Weekend TV Highlights
The television landscape this weekend offers a compelling mix of new series and returning favorites. Summerwater, a six-part psychological thriller premiering on Channel 4, promises a claustrophobic and intense viewing experience. Based on Sarah Moss’s acclaimed novel, the series follows several families as their secrets begin to unravel within the confines of a seemingly idyllic holiday park in rural Scotland. The story initially focuses on Justine, portrayed by Valene Kane, who becomes increasingly paranoid and is forced to confront her past alongside her husband, Steve, played by Daniel Rigby. Dougray Scott and Shirley Henderson also feature in this highly anticipated drama.
Switching gears, Sky Documentaries presents King of Lies: Football’s Greatest Con, a documentary that delves into a head-spinning scandal. The film explores the 2009 takeover of Notts County, England’s oldest professional football club, by a consortium with questionable connections and a central figure described as a “conman.” According to reports, the documentary reveals a shocking link between North Korea’s mining industry and the club’s fate, painting a picture of a scam that is both captivating and deeply saddening for fans.
For those seeking character-driven drama, BBC One airs Riot Women, the concluding episode of Sally Wainwright’s acclaimed series. Kitty faces her past with a prison visit, while Holly confronts a corrupt police officer, Rudy, and Beth attempts to reconcile with her son, Tom. Encouragingly, a second series is reportedly in development.
Meanwhile, Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing continues on BBC Two, offering a more tranquil escape. Bob and Paul, after eight series of angling and untangling lines, still haven’t caught a perch. This week’s episode takes place in Herefordshire, and features a special treat for the show’s beloved canine companion, Ted the terrier – a canine massage.
Reality TV fans can tune into I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! on ITV1, where a new cohort of celebrities, including comedian Ruby Wax, Martin Kemp of Spandau Ballet, rapper Aitch, broadcaster Kelly Brook, Jack Osbourne, and former Lioness Alex Scott, will brave the jungle. The show celebrates its 25th anniversary with the return of presenters Ant and Dec.
Finally, Daisy May and Charlie Cooper’s NightWatch returns to BBC Two with an unconventional start to their ghost hunt. Daisy May Cooper begins by enjoying a film – specifically, “Channing Tatum with no top on” – at York’s Everyman cinema, before turning her attention to investigating spooky occurrences at the art deco theatre with her brother, Charlie.
Classic Cinema and Tense Thrillers: Film Choices
The weekend’s film offerings include a selection of classics and compelling thrillers. BBC Two will broadcast The Untouchables at 10pm. The 1987 period crime drama, boasting a script by David Mamet, a score by Ennio Morricone, and wardrobe by Giorgio Armani, tells the story of Eliot Ness’s pursuit of Al Capone. Despite a noted quirk in Sean Connery’s accent, the film is lauded as a “classy joint,” featuring a magnetically chilling performance by Robert De Niro as Capone and Kevin Costner as Ness.
Later, Channel 4 will air ’71 at 1:15am. This tense thriller, starring Jack O’Connell, showcases the actor’s breakout performance as a British soldier caught in the crossfire during the Troubles in Belfast in 1971. The film is praised for its nuanced portrayal of a politically charged situation and its ability to convey a surprising amount of depth within a tight, one-day timeframe.
Weekend Sports Schedule
Sports enthusiasts have a packed schedule to look forward to. TNT Sports 1 will broadcast the Women’s Premiership Rugby match between Exeter Chiefs and Harlequins at noon, followed by the Men’s International Rugby Union match between Scotland and Argentina at 2:30pm. ITV1 will air a crucial World Cup Group K qualifier between Albania and England at 4pm.
