There is always a wide selection of great films available on Freeview. And seeing as staying in is the new going out, TV presents the ideal opportunity to catch up on what you might have missed in the cinema. Plus, it saves you spending your student loan on DVDs and rentals. Sometimes the choice can be quite overwhelming, so here at Leeds Student we’ve decided to compile a weekly list of the best films on TV. This week, we start with star ships and cute animated robots, moving all the way to a foul-mouthed eleven-year-old girl stabbing drug dealers.
Monday – Star Trek (Film4 21:00)
In 2009, J. J. Abrams took on a dying and niche franchise and gave it a facelift, making it young, sexy and fantastic. Although there are too many piercing lens flares, this is one of the best modern science fiction films out there. With thrilling action, an intelligent storyline, a sleek design, and engaging characters and performances, it’s a fun and spectacular romp. This year’s sequel is also not to be missed!
Tuesday – One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest (BBC1 23:50)
Jack Nicholson has perhaps never been better than in this classic film that follows a group of men in a psychiatric ward. Winning all five major Oscars, many view it as one of the best films ever made. With a poetic, touching and uplifting story, this is one to see before you die.
Wednesday – WALL-E (BBC3 20:30)
Disney and Pixar really do make a dream team, as seen in this glorious animation about a lonely robot in love. It’s worth seeing just for the first thirty minutes, which is one of the most stunning and magical film openings I’ve seen. Even the most cold-hearted person will instantly fall in love with this adorable robot. But if you’re looking for something completely different then be sure to catch the brutal 13 Assassins on Film4.
Thursday – No Distance Left To Run (ITV4 00:05)
Following the band throughout their reunion in 2009, featuring lots of footage from their celebrated Hyde Park concert, this documentary is a well-made insight into the life of the indie rock stars (and Alex James). Without Blur the popular music scene in Britain would look very different – perhaps even Oasis fans can admit to that.
Friday – The Thirty Nine Steps (More4 11:40)
This remake of the Hitchcock classic will never compare to the original, however for my money it is too heavily criticised. This version stars many great British acting talents, has glorious scenery and tells the story in a fresh and exciting way. Compare it to the classic if you must, but this is an enjoyable and stand alone film. Running at the same time on Film4 is David Lynch’s pulpy Wild at Heart, a must for any film buff.
Saturday – Kick-Ass (Channel 4 22:00)
For me, Kick-Ass was the stand out film of 2009. Original, innovative, violent and magnificent to boot. Although the swearing (especially from its eleven year old star), violence and bloody action caused much controversy, in many eyes (including mine!), Kick-Ass is a masterpiece of comic book adaptation. It is nearly flawless with outstanding performances, visually stunning scenes, a touching story and a unique take on the superhero genre.
Sunday – Whip It (ITV2 21:00)
Directed by Drew Barrymore and starring Ellen Page, Whip It tells the story of a young girl who escapes her mother’s beauty pageant plans, opting instead to join an all-girl roller derby team. It is an impressive directorial debut that starts out slow but quickly whips into a fun, thrilling and enjoyable film.
Emily Murray