From Oz to Zombies: Your Essential Guide to This Week’s Must-Watch TV & Film

Looking for the perfect screen escape this week? from the dazzling return to the Land of Oz to a chilling horror selection, and even a family-friendly zombie musical, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a curated guide to the best television and film offerings arriving between July 5th and July 11th.

A Spellbinding Return: Wicked Takes Flight

If you approach musicals with skepticism, Wicked might be best experienced on a television screen. Consumed in a single sitting – its length and relentless energy of numerous songs can be overwhelming – those on the fence may find themselves inundated. However, for those prepared to fully immerse themselves, Jon M Chu’s Wizard of Oz prequel is a true spectacle. The performances are extraordinary, particularly Ariana Grande, whose background in disney Channel productions translates into a remarkable lightness of touch. The film’s ambition is undeniable, and a viewer would have to be remarkably stoic not to be moved by the powerful final rendition of “Defying Gravity.” Wicked premieres Friday, July 11th, at 10am and 8pm on Sky Cinema Premiere.

Did you know?-The stage production of *Wicked* premiered on Broadway in 2003 and has as become one of the highest-grossing musicals of all time, captivating audiences worldwide with its enchanting story and memorable songs.

Beyond the Slap: King Richard Deserves Its Due

King Richard will inevitably be remembered as the film surrounding Will Smith’s controversial oscar night. However, it’s a disservice to define it solely by that incident, as the film stands on its own merits as a compelling biopic.The story follows Richard Williams, the determined father who propelled his daughters, Venus and Serena Williams, to tennis superstardom.The film charts a remarkable journey from the streets of Compton to the pinnacle of the sport, and, despite the surrounding controversy, Smith delivers what many consider a career-defining performance. King Richard airs Saturday, July 5th, at 10:20pm on BBC One.

Die Hard… Again? Die Hard 2 Offers Guilty Pleasure

Is Die Hard 2 the best installment in the Die Hard franchise? Absolutely not. Compared to the sophistication of the original, it feels as though it was crafted by amateur artists. However, once you embrace its over-the-top nature, it delivers a concentrated dose of pure entertainment. The film is filled with hilariously excessive profanity – “No pictures, you pinko bitch,” is a standout line – and a casual disregard for human life that borders on the psychopathic. Bruce Willis’s enduring charisma, even while dispatching a horde of villains at an airport, is a testament to his talent. Die Hard 2 screens Sunday, July 6th, at 10:30pm on BBC One.

Reader question:-do you think the *Die Hard* franchise has stayed true to its original roots, or has it strayed to far into over-the-top action territory? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

folk Horror at Its Finest: The Wicker Man (1973)

Forget the Nicolas Cage remake with the bees. This is Robin Hardy’s 1973 masterpiece, in which a police sergeant, played by Edward Woodward, travels to a remote Scottish island inhabited by pagans and slowly realizes he’s in over his head.A landmark achievement in folk horror, brimming with unsettling atmosphere, The Wicker Man has left an indelible mark on the genre. It’s likely the film was scheduled to capitalize on the recent success of 28 Years Later, and if so, it’s a shrewd move, as the influence of The Wicker Man is clearly visible. The Wicker Man airs Tuesday, July 8th, at 11:50pm on BBC Two.

Descent into Darkness: Don’t Look Now Haunts BBC Two

BBC Two continues its week of pre-bedtime scares with what many consider the scariest film ever made: Don’t look Now. Nicolas Roeg’s 1973 adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s story is a disorienting and deeply unsettling exploration of grief and premonition. Donald Sutherland and Julie Christie portray a grieving couple in Venice who are haunted by ominous visions and malevolent psychics. the film’s final sequence, featuring Sutherland’s desperate pursuit through the city, is a truly nightmarish experience. Don’t Look Now airs Wednesday, July 9th, at midnight on BBC Two.

Trapped Inside: Brick Delivers a Chilling Thriller

Philip Koch, previously known for directing Netflix’s short-lived sci-fi series Tribes of Europa, returns with Brick, a horror thriller built around a chilling premise. Matthias Schweighöfer and Ruby O Fee star as a couple who awaken to find their apartment building completely sealed off by an enormous, unidentified wall. Is this a trap,or a form of protection? Will their neighbors offer assistance,or are they complicit in the mystery? The film clearly draws inspiration from the works of Stephen King,and the influence is palpable. Brick is available on Netflix starting Thursday, July 10th.

Zombies… Again! Zombies 4 offers Family-Friendly Fun

Disney’s Zombies franchise may have flown under the radar for many adults, but it provides a perfect entry point into the horror genre for younger viewers. It’s essentially High School Musical with a supernatural twist, offering a safe and enjoyable experience without graphic content. This installment introduces vampires to the mix of werewolves and aliens already featured in previous films, and includes songs like “Don’t Mess With Us” and “Kerosene.” Zombies 4 premieres Friday, July 11th, on Disney+.

beyond the Screen: Expanding Your Entertainment Horizons

As our guide through this week’s television and film offerings makes clear, there’s a vast and varied world of entertainment available, from dazzling musical spectacles like Wicked to the family-amiable fun of Zombies 4. But what if your looking to expand your viewing options beyond the scheduled air times and streaming platforms? Where do you find these films? There are many ways to satisfy that craving through various media outlets.

Exploring Streaming Services and Beyond

The most accessible option for many is streaming. Platforms such as YouTube TV offer live TV streaming, including channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC [[1]]. This can be an excellent way to catch new releases and live events. Moreover, streaming services like Disney+, where Zombies 4 premieres, are increasingly producing original content, offering a vast library of films and shows to explore.

Discovering Hidden Gems: TV & Film Listings

Beyond these major players,a whole universe of television and cinema awaits finding. Television listings can unveil hidden gems. websites such as TVTV.us offer complete TV guides for local Columbus,Ohio schedules,enabling you to discover programming on cable,satellite,and antenna channels [[3]].

The Physical Media Revival

For those seeking a more tactile experience, buying physical copies of movies can be a great way to expand your collection. While streaming offers convenience, owning Blu-rays or DVDs provides a sense of permanence and often includes bonus features like director’s commentaries or deleted scenes. You can also purchase or rent physical media at Best Buy. Best Buy provides options for purchasing various LED, 4K, OLED & curved flat screen TVs from popular brands, and may provide details on current special deals [[2]].

Tips for Building Your Entertainment Arsenal

Explore Multiple Streaming Platforms: Don’t limit yourself! Subscribe to a variety of services to maximize content.
Check Local TV Guides: Websites like TVTV.us (for Columbus, Ohio) are excellent resources for discovering movies airing on cable, satellite, and antenna TV [[3]].
Consider Physical Media: Build your collection and back up your favorites.
Follow Film Critics and Bloggers: Stay updated on new releases and hidden gems.

Where can I find current movie listings? TVTV.us provides local TV listings, allowing for easy identification of movies based on your specific geographic area [[3]]. How can I discover new movies to watch? Keeping an open mind on new streaming platforms, searching tv guides and engaging with film reviews are all excellent ways of finding new options.

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