The Seven Best Films to Watch on TV This Week
Nyad: A Cinematic Journey of Astonishing Feats
Nyad, directed by Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, is a gripping drama that explores the remarkable physical endeavors of veteran LA sportscaster Diana Nyad. Known for her long-distance swims, including an unsuccessful attempt to cross from Cuba to Key West when she was 28, Nyad, now 60, decides to take on the 103-mile Straits of Florida swim once again. Anchored by Annette Bening’s magnetic performance as Diana, the film delves into the character’s stubbornness and self-assurance, portraying her as a driven individual who will stop at nothing to succeed. The movie also features a compelling supporting performance by Jodie Foster as Diana’s best friend Bonnie. [Friday 3 November, Netflix]
Pain Hustlers: A Wolf of Wall Street-Style Takedown of Big Pharma
Pain Hustlers is a film inspired by real events that examines the role of Big Pharma in the opioid addiction crisis. Emily Blunt stars as Liza, a jobless single mother who discovers a talent for pushing a fentanyl-based cancer drug to doctors when hired by Chris Evans’s pushy sales representative. As the money starts pouring in, Liza becomes entangled in the morally ambiguous world of pharmaceutical sales, especially when the firm’s owner, portrayed by Andy García, pushes the boundaries of legality. Blunt’s nuanced performance skillfully captures Liza’s transformation from partygoer to someone plagued by ethical concerns. [Out now, Netflix]
Under the Skin: A Surreal Sci-Fi Chiller
Under the Skin, directed by Jonathan Glazer, takes viewers on a chilling journey with Scarlett Johansson, who plays an alien driving a white van around Glasgow, picking up men and subjecting them to mysterious and horrific encounters. The film is a compelling blend of science fiction and horror, with a documentary-like feel that keeps audiences on edge. Mica Levi’s haunting score adds to the film’s atmosphere of unease, while Johansson’s portrayal of the alien’s discovery of empathy injects the story with unexpected depth. [Saturday 28 October, 1.40am, Film4]
Infinity Pool: A Morally Ambiguous Horror
Infinity Pool, directed by Brandon Cronenberg, challenges the morality of tourism through a warped horror tale. Alexander Skarsgård plays James, a failed writer on vacation with his wealthy wife in an unnamed corrupt country. After a tragic accident, James opts for a clone of himself to take the blame, setting off a series of orgiastic crimes and clone deaths. The film delves into the dark desires of thrill-seeking tourists and examines the consequences of their actions. Mia Goth delivers a captivating performance as Gabi, a seductive influence on James. [Sunday 29 October, 10pm, Sky Cinema Premiere]
The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde: A Political Adaptation
This black-and-white production of The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by the National Theatre of Scotland reimagines Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic horror novel in the director’s home city of Edinburgh. Director Hope Dickson Leach takes a fresh approach, focusing more on the historical and political landscape of Victorian society, where Hyde symbolizes the fears of the working class being crushed beneath the relentless pursuit of profit by the upper classes. Henry Pettigrew’s portrayal of Jekyll and Hyde captures the complexities of Stevenson’s characters and societal critique. [Monday 30 October, 9pm, Sky Arts]
The Nest: An 80s Set Drama of Hubris
The Nest, directed by Sean Durkin, is an 80s-set drama that explores the dark side of familial aspirations. Jude Law delivers a superb performance as Rory, a cocky commodities broker who convinces his American wife, Allison (played by Carrie Coon), and their children to move to the UK in pursuit of his grandiose dreams. This sly exposé of Thatcherite aspiration exposes the emptiness and fragility of the promises made by those chasing material success. Law’s portrayal of Rory’s charisma and smooth-talking nature lends authenticity to the character’s charm and eventual downfall. [Friday 3 November, 11.05pm, BBC Two]
Mean Streets: Scorsese’s Breakthrough Mafia Film
Mean Streets, directed by Martin Scorsese, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Scorsese’s breakthrough film takes viewers into the world of the mafia in New York City, specifically in the Little Italy neighborhood where the director grew up. Harvey Keitel delivers a captivating performance as low-level criminal Charlie, while Robert De Niro’s portrayal of his volatile childhood friend Johnny Boy burns up the screen. The film is a vivid and heartfelt portrayal of urban life, showcasing Scorsese’s masterful storytelling and his exploration of loyalty, friendship, and the consequences of one’s actions. [Friday 3 November, 11.10pm, Film4]
Final Thoughts
This week’s selection of films offers viewers a diverse range of genres and themes. From gripping dramas based on real-life achievements to thought-provoking tales of morality and societal critique, these films provide a compelling cinematic experience. Whether you’re drawn to stories of physical resilience like Nyad or prefer psychological explorations like Under the Skin, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Editorial: The Power of Human Resilience
The films featured this week highlight the remarkable power of human resilience and determination. In Nyad, we witness Diana Nyad’s unwavering drive to conquer the Straits of Florida, defying age and past failures. Annette Bening’s performance encapsulates Nyad’s stubbornness and self-assurance, reminding us that achieving extraordinary feats often requires an unwavering belief in oneself.
In Pain Hustlers, we delve into the dark underbelly of the pharmaceutical industry and witness the transformation of Emily Blunt’s character as she confronts the ethical implications of her actions. The film invites us to question the boundaries of ambition and the moral implications of success at any cost.
Infinity Pool forces us to examine the consequences of our actions and the lengths we are willing to go for personal satisfaction. Alexander Skarsgård’s portrayal of James showcases the destructive nature of unchecked desires and the moral ambiguity of seeking thrills at the expense of others.
Advice: Embracing the Cinematic Journey
As we immerse ourselves in these cinematic journeys, let us reflect on the themes and messages that resonate with us. Films have the power to inspire, challenge, and provoke us, allowing us to explore the complexities of the human experience. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and embark on these captivating movie adventures.
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