Eternity to Queer: Seven Must-See Films on TV This Week
This week's television lineup offers a diverse array of cinematic gems, from romantic comedies to intense dramas. Whether you're in the mood for heartfelt stories or thrilling adventures, there's something for everyone. Here are the seven best films to watch on TV this week.
Eternity
David Freyne's lovely new film is a delightful throwback to classic Hollywood romantic comedies, reminiscent of Cary Grant's My Favourite Wife. Miles Teller stars as Larry, who dies after 65 years of marriage to Joan, played by Elizabeth Olsen. In an afterlife transit hotel, he must choose a themed world for eternity. However, Joan soon arrives and is greeted by her first husband, Luke (Callum Turner), who died in the Korean war and has been waiting for her. The film explores Joan's dilemma: which man will she choose to spend eternity with? Teller, Olsen, and Turner deliver a perfect balance of wit and warmth in this charming drama. Friday 13 February, Apple TV.
Crossing
Levan Akin's deeply moving drama, Crossing, delves into themes of refuge and reinvention in Istanbul. Retired Georgian teacher Lia (Mzia Arabuli) travels to the city to search for her long-lost transgender niece. With the help of young neighbour Achi (Lucas Kankava) and former trans sex worker Evrim (Deniz Dumanli), her journey reveals a precarious underworld of poverty and exploitation, but also one of life-affirming friendship. This film is a poignant exploration of identity and connection. Saturday 7 February, 9.20pm, BBC Four.
Alice, Darling
Anna Kendrick showcases her dramatic range in Mary Nighy's chilling and enraging film, Alice, Darling. Kendrick plays Alice, who goes on a lakeside break with friends Sophie (Wunmi Mosaku) and Tess (Kaniehtiio Horn). Her anxious behaviour and constant texts from her self-centred boyfriend Simon (Charlie Carrick) hint at a disturbing relationship of coercive control and gaslighting. This tale highlights how abuse can manifest in many forms, making it a powerful and unsettling watch. Tuesday 10 February, 9pm, Film4.
Queer
Luca Guadagnino's steamy and lush drama, Queer, features a bravura performance from Daniel Craig. Based on William Burroughs's novella, the film follows gay American expat Lee in 1950s Mexico City as he frequents seedy bars and falls hopelessly in love with the enigmatic Eugene (Drew Starkey). It's a romance of unrequited lust and surreal events, including a trip to the Ecuadorian rainforest. With its transgressive themes and captivating storytelling, this film is a must-see. Tuesday 10 February, 11pm, BBC Two.
The Astronaut
In Jess Varley's sci-fi drama, The Astronaut, Kate Mara stars as Sam Walker, an astronaut who returns to Earth after a failed re-entry. Sent to a high-tech rural house by her father (Laurence Fishburne), she experiences hallucinations and mystery bruises, with hints of a creature in the woods. This tidy chiller combines psychological tension with fleshy twists, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Friday 13 February, Paramount+.
How to Train Your Dragon
Universal's live-action version of the hit 2010 animated comedy, How to Train Your Dragon, is a delightful family film. Directed by Dean DeBlois, it stars Mason Thames as Hiccup, a smith's apprentice who befriends a dragon named Toothless. With Gerard Butler reprising his role as Stoick the Vast, this film offers a heartwarming story of friendship and conflict resolution. It's a charming adaptation that captures the magic of the original. Friday 13 February, 8.25am and 4pm, Sky Cinema Premiere.
Moulin Rouge!
Baz Luhrmann's fever dream of a movie, Moulin Rouge!, is a cultural mashup of opera, Bollywood, and modern music. Starring Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman as star-crossed lovers in fin-de-siècle Paris, the film blends frenetic editing, anachronistic tunes, and extravagant visuals. It's an overwhelming yet captivating experience that proves more can indeed be more. Friday 13 February, 11pm, BBC Two.
