Need a weekend watch? Here’s 5 great movies on TV – including a “fantastic” period drama

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If you’re looking for a great movie to enjoy this weekend, television offers several timeless classics as well as some fresh options for your viewing pleasure.

Cozy down on your couch with a refreshing beverage, as we take a break from the summer heat! Instead, immerse yourself in an Academy Award-winning drama about the LGBTQ+ community or a hilarious ’80s comedy that humorously advises against mixing things up too much – both are waiting for you!

Here’s my take on your request:

Dive into my top recommendations from Digital Spy for what’s hot on TV this weekend, specifically on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th August!

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The Electrical Life of Louis Wain

Among Benedict Cumberbatch’s films, the 2021 dramedy stands out as the most fantastical or fanciful one due to its impressive cast and storyline.

As a passionate admirer, I can’t help but share my excitement about the film that delves into the life of the artist, portrayed by the charismatic Benedict Cumberbatch (known for his role in Doctor Strange). This movie takes us on a captivating journey through the personal and professional highs and lows of Wain, an extraordinary illustrator who breathes life into anthropomorphic cats.

Under the direction of Will Sharpe, who also appears in “The White Lotus” and “Too Much,” this film boasts a talented cast that includes Claire Foy, Andrea Riseborough, and Toby Jones. Will Sharpe collaborated on the script with Simon Stephenson for this production.

On Saturday evening, catch this movie that Digital Spy highly praised as one of Cumberbatch’s finest films based on their exceptional five-star critique.

Airing Saturday on Channel 4 at 10.10pm. Available on Channel 4’s streaming platform afterwards.

The Favourite

If you’re searching for a compelling, dark period drama that strikes a balance between laughter and terror, look no further than Yorgos Lanthimos’ film “The Favourite”. Give it a watch (or rewatch if you haven’t already)!

The movie, which unfolds in the 18th century, relies heavily on its exceptional portrayals. It primarily revolves around the complex relationship between Queen Anne (Olivia Colman), a weak monarch, and her two ambitious lovers, Sarah Churchill, Duchess of Marlborough (Rachel Weisz) and Abigail Hill (Emma Stone). The trio delivers compelling performances that form the core of the narrative.

The review by TIME Magazine described the film as a “delightfully wicked” masterpiece, drawing a comparison to a charming yet slightly bitter cupcake, coated with a layer of thistle-flavored icing.

Instead, indulge in a real night-time dessert treat for yourself, and savor the viewing of the ten-times Oscar-nominated movie that will be aired on our screens at the wee hours of Sunday morning.

Airing Saturday on Channel 4 at 00.25am (early hours of Sunday morning).

Ghostbusters

A Sunday afternoon watch doesn’t get any better than 1980s classic Ghostbusters.

Paranormal investigators, led by Peter Venkman (played by Bill Murray), Ray Stantz (Dan Aykroyd), Egon Spengler (Harold Ramis), and Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson), strive to protect New York City from the supernatural threats such as shapeshifting demigods, demonic dogs, and a colossal Stay Puft Marshmallow Man.

1984’s film, titled “Ghostbusters,” was helmed by Ivan Reitman with screenplay contributions from Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis. Sigourney Weaver portrayed Dana Barrett, a cellist, while Annie Potts starred as the secretary, Janine Melnitz, for the Ghostbusters team.

Originally, Ghostbusters, the trailblazer of the ghost series, produced a direct follow-up known as Ghostbusters II. Later came a reboot featuring an all-female cast titled Answer the Call, directed by Paul Feig. Subsequently, there were two more sequels that continued the original storyline – Afterlife and Frozen Empire.

Airing Sunday on BBC One at 4.15pm and streaming on iPlayer afterwards.

The Silence of the Lambs

Intensify your Sunday anxieties by delving into the chilling world of the cannibal cult depicted in the movie “The Silence of the Lambs,” featuring the captivating performances of Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster.

The 1991 movie “The Silence of the Lambs,” directed by Jonathan Demme, is the only horror film to have received the Best Picture award at the Oscars. In this two-hander, Jodie Foster portrays FBI agent Clarice Starling who seeks assistance from the notorious cannibalistic psychiatrist Hannibal Lecter, played by Anthony Hopkins.

In a more concise form:
The 1991 film “The Silence of the Lambs,” directed by Jonathan Demme, is the only horror movie to win Best Picture at the Oscars. In this two-character story, Jodie Foster plays FBI agent Clarice Starling who seeks help from cannibalistic psychiatrist Hannibal Lecter, portrayed by Anthony Hopkins.

Imprisoned within high-security confines, Hannibal aids Clarice in delving into the twisted psyche of the ruthless serial killer known as Buffalo Bill, who possesses an unusual fascination with stripping the skin from his victims.

Airing Sunday on BBC Two at 10pm and streaming on iPlayer afterwards,

Rise of the Planet of the Apes

This weekend, Telly is set to unveil another epic science fiction film, titled “Rise of the Planet of the Apes“. It’s the initial installment in the revamped series, brimming with excitement!

Witness Andy Serkis stepping into the shoes previously worn by Roddy McDowall as the ape leader Caesar, and instigating a simian uprising in the subsequent storyline.

The 2011 movie, titled “Rise of the Planet of the Apes,” directed by Rupert Wyatt, played a significant role in reviving the ape series. It led to three subsequent films: “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” (2014), “War for the Planet of the Apes” (2017), and “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” which hit theaters in 2024.

Airing Sunday on ITV1 at 10.15pm and streaming on ITVX afterwards.

The latest edition of Digital Spy’s print issue has arrived! You can purchase the Oasis – Live in ’25 concert album either from newsstands or online, now available for only £8.99.

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2025-08-16 09:50