This week’s cinematic offerings on television and streaming platforms range from rural dramas to suspenseful thrillers, providing a diverse selection for viewers. Among these is “Harvest,” a film directed by Athina Rachel Tsangari and adapted from Jim Crace’s novel. Set in an unnamed rural Scottish village, it portrays the rising tensions concerning land, power, and social inequality. The story centers on Master Kent, played by Harry Melling, who leads local agricultural workers. The arrival of his cousin, who seeks to enclose communal lands for sheep farming, poses a threat to the villagers’ traditional lifestyle. The film delves into themes of class division, evolving communities, and the impact of economic power. It airs on BBC Two at 11:05 p.m., Friday, September 4.
“The Whisper Man,” available on Netflix, tells the story of Tom, a widowed crime writer whose eight-year-old son is kidnapped under circumstances reminiscent of a notorious serial killer’s crimes. As the plot unfolds, Tom’s estranged father, Peter—a former detective who had apprehended the original Whisper Man—joins the investigation. This raises questions about whether a copycat killer is at work or if the real culprit eluded capture.
In “Black Panther,” directed by Ryan Coogler, the narrative follows T’Challa, played by Chadwick Boseman, who ascends the throne of Wakanda. As he grapples with challenges to his leadership, T’Challa also faces deeper questions about power, identity, and Wakanda’s relationship with the world. The film features an ensemble cast including Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira, and Letitia Wright. It airs on Channel 4 at 8 p.m., Saturday, August 29.
Kate Winslet stars in “Lee,” a biographical drama directed by Ellen Kuras, portraying war photographer Lee Miller. The film chronicles Miller’s experiences during World War II, covering the London Blitz, the liberation of Europe, and the discovery of Nazi concentration camps. It highlights her unwavering commitment to capturing the brutal realities of war. Viewers can catch it on Sky Atlantic at 9 p.m., Saturday, August 29.
Other notable titles include Luc Besson’s “The Fifth Element,” a sci-fi adventure set in the 23rd century starring Bruce Willis and Milla Jovovich. It combines elements of action, sci-fi, and comedy. This film airs on Sky Sci-Fi at 7 p.m., Monday, August 31. “Little Big Man,” a revisionist western directed by Arthur Penn, features Dustin Hoffman as Jack Crabb, exploring themes of cultural conflict and identity as seen through Crabb’s unique life experiences. It is scheduled for 11:45 a.m., Wednesday, September 2, on 5Action. Lastly, “Anora,” directed by Sean Baker, follows a Brooklyn stripper, played by Mikey Madison, who becomes involved with a wealthy Russian family’s son, portrayed by Mark Eydelshteyn. This comedic drama is available on Netflix, Thursday, September 3.