TV tonight: A chaotic holiday party, a colorful sports retrospective, and a bridge of lies
The evening's lineup offers a mix of entertainment, sports, and drama, with something for everyone.
Two Weeks in August
At 9:15 pm on BBC One, we find ourselves in the midst of a chaotic holiday party. The drama centers around Dan and Jess's indiscretion, which has far-reaching consequences. Zoe, played by the talented Jessica Raine, feels liberated and determined to let loose. The setting is a Gods and Monsters fancy dress party at the home of Flick and James, a couple known for their appalling behavior. The party quickly descends into chaos, with entertaining and terrible events unfolding. This episode promises great fun and a unique exploration of the characters' dynamics.
The 1966 World Cup Final: In Colour
At 4:45 pm on Channel 4, we travel back to the past, specifically to the year 1966, to witness the World Cup final. The game has been meticulously colorized, allowing us to relive the excitement of the match. With the addition of VAR-defying Russian linesmen, the experience is even more immersive. The result? A spoiler alert: everything went smoothly, a rare occurrence in the history of the World Cup. This retro sports retrospective is a fascinating glimpse into the past, inviting us to appreciate the evolution of the game.
Celebrity Bridge of Lies
At 5:35 pm on BBC One, we step into the world of competitive truth-telling. Former track and field athlete Greg Rutherford takes on the challenge of crossing a bridge of lies with children's TV legend Janet Ellis, Scottish actor Sanjeev Kohli, and former EastEnders star Louisa Lytton. The tension rises as they attempt to discern truth from deception. This episode promises a mix of humor and suspense, as the celebrities navigate the tricky path of truth-telling.
Blankety Blank
At 6:20 pm on BBC One, we find ourselves in the world of wordy quizzes. Chris McCausland returns for another round of side-splitting entertainment. The episode features a celebrity lineup, including Emmett J Scanlan, Melvin Odoom, Sue Perkins, Grace Dent, and Vanessa Williams. The wordy quizshow promises laughter and intellectual challenges, as the celebrities test their knowledge and wit.
Casualty
At 8:25 pm on BBC One, we delve into the world of medical drama. Clinical lead Flynn is convinced that young soldiers are facing violent hazing at the hands of a cruel colonel. The episode explores the challenges of convincing a traumatized recruit to blow the whistle. Meanwhile, an agitated woman seeks pain relief, leading to a dramatic event. This episode promises a blend of tension, emotion, and the complexities of the medical field.
Monsieur Spade
At 9 pm on U&Drama, we step into the world of a tense, violent gumshoe thriller. Clive Owen stars as Sam Spade, a grumpy yet embattled retired detective. The episode concludes a double bill, flashing back to France's entanglement in Algeria and MI6's involvement with child codebreaker Zayd. The story promises intrigue, mystery, and a deep dive into the complexities of the characters' pasts.
Film Choice
Hoppers (Disney+): This animated sci-fi comedy adventure carries an eco message, encouraging us to protect endangered animals. Mabel, voiced by Piper Curda, guides us through a biodiverse nook of woods and water. When a proposed freeway threatens the wildlife, Mabel uses a robotic beaver to track them down and save their glade. With neat gags and relatable villains, it's a charming and engaging watch.
The Curse of Frankenstein (Talking Pictures TV): This 1957 adaptation of Mary Shelley's novel is a classic Hammer horror. The film features a unique creature with a grey, clammy appearance and violent tendencies. Peter Cushing commands the screen as the hubristic Baron Frankenstein, diving gleefully off the ethical deep end. This movie is a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.
Vermiglio (BBC Four): This Italian drama explores the simple life of a mountain community, disrupted by the frictions of the Second World War. Tommaso Ragno portrays Cesare, a local teacher and father of eight, who harbors two army deserters. The story delves into the complexities of family dynamics, parental norms, and the impact of war on personal relationships.
Live Sport
The evening's sports coverage includes Test Cricket, Prem Rugby Union, Super League Rugby, and Men's International Football. The Test Cricket match between England and New Zealand at Lord's promises an exciting day of sports. The Prem Rugby Union match between Exeter and Saracens is the final day of the regular season, while the Super League Rugby match between Wakefield and Hull KR takes place at the DIY Kitchens Stadium. The Men's International Football matches between England and New Zealand, Scotland and Bolivia, France and Northern Ireland, and England and Costa Rica offer a variety of football action.