From Horror to Heartbreak: Seven Must-Watch Films on TV This Week
This week's television lineup offers a diverse cinematic journey, ranging from spine-chilling horror to poignant documentary storytelling. With premieres, classics, and thought-provoking dramas, there's something for every film enthusiast to discover.
Bring Her Back: A Grisly Horror Masterpiece
Danny and Michael Philippou follow their acclaimed horror debut Talk to Me with Bring Her Back, featuring an unforgettable performance by Sally Hawkins. Hawkins portrays Laura, a foster parent grappling with grief who takes in troubled teenager Andy (Billy Barrett) and his partially sighted younger stepsister Piper (Sora Wong). The film's atmosphere of malignant tension builds steadily, culminating in scenes so intense viewers may find themselves hiding behind their hands. With Jonah Wren Phillips delivering an uncanny performance as the disturbed Oliver, this horror explores dark familial secrets with relentless energy. Saturday, 10.20pm, Sky Cinema Premiere.
A Clockwork Orange: Dystopian Classic Returns
Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of Anthony Burgess's novel remains a landmark of cinematic dystopia. Malcolm McDowell's career-defining portrayal of Alex, a violent gang leader who loves Beethoven, anchors this bleakly comic vision. While the film's sexual politics show their age, its 1960s futuristic design retains a peculiar charm, and its themes of psychological conditioning feel eerily prescient. Saturday 28 February, 12.10am, Sky Cinema Greats.
Fire Will Come: Hypnotic Rural Drama
Óliver Laxe's contemplative drama set in Galicia, Spain, follows Amador (Amador Arias Mon) returning home after an arson conviction. The film immerses viewers in the seasonal rhythms of rural life, with Benedicta Sánchez portraying his mother in this low-key narrative. Its hypnotic pacing and atmospheric tension build toward a devastating forest fire, leaving audiences questioning responsibility and fate. Sunday 1 March, 2.10am, Film4.
Enduring Love: Psychological Thriller Adaptation
Roger Michell's adaptation of Ian McEwan's novel features Daniel Craig as academic Joe, whose life unravels after a tragic balloon accident. Samantha Morton co-stars as his partner Claire, while Rhys Ifans delivers a haunting performance as Jed, whose obsessive fixation drives the psychological thriller elements. The film thoughtfully explores different conceptions of love, from scientific to spiritual. Monday 2 March, 1.30am, Film4.
Mars Attacks!: Joyful Sci-Fi Homage
Tim Burton's 1996 cult classic pays affectionate tribute to 1960s science fiction films, complete with intentionally shonky special effects. Jack Nicholson stars as a preening US president attempting diplomacy with invading Martians, while Tom Jones appears in a memorable cameo. This deeply silly, joyful film offers pure entertainment with its campy humor and nostalgic charm. Wednesday 4 March, 8.40am, 4.10pm, Sky Cinema Greats.
Molly vs the Machines: Tragic Documentary Must-Watch
Marc Silver's documentary Molly vs the Machines presents a heartbreaking examination of teenage suicide and corporate responsibility. The film follows Ian Russell, father of 14-year-old Molly who died in 2017, as he campaigns against harmful online content. Through interviews with friends, industry insiders, and reconstructions of the 2022 inquest, the documentary exposes social media companies' failures to protect children despite knowing the risks. Thursday 5 March, 9pm, Channel 4.
The Thin Red Line: War Epic with Philosophical Depth
Terrence Malick's triumphant return after two decades away from filmmaking resulted in this resplendent adaptation of James Jones's World War II novel. Following a US infantry battalion's brutal assault on Guadalcanal, the film interweaves battlefield action with soldiers' existential musings about hope, fear, and lost innocence. With an ensemble cast including Jim Caviezel, Sean Penn, and Ben Chaplin, this war epic offers both visceral combat and profound philosophical reflection. Friday 6 March, 9pm, Great! Action.
From Sally Hawkins' chilling horror performance to the tragic real-world story of Molly Russell, this week's television films provide compelling viewing across genres. Whether you're seeking thrills, thought-provoking drama, or cinematic classics, these seven selections deliver exceptional storytelling and memorable performances.
