The seven best films to watch on TV this week

Pick of the Week – Out of Seven best films

1. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

While Disney+ is renowned for its Marvel and Pixar content, one of its best-kept secrets is its comprehensive collection of “Planet of the Apes” films. From the classic Charlton Heston original to its increasingly wild 1970s sequels and the more serious recent entries, the collection spans the entire series. The latest addition, “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” directed by Maze Runner’s Wes Ball, brings the saga up to date. Set 300 years after the last film, this new installment delves into political tribalism with a mature and engaging narrative, setting the stage for a potential full reboot of the franchise. It may not be the most crucial chapter, but it’s worth watching.

Out now on Disney+.

2. Mission: Impossible

Revisiting Tom Cruise’s inaugural appearance as Ethan Hunt in 1996 feels like stepping back in time, especially after the high-octane sequels that followed. This original film unfolds more deliberately, rich with tension and intrigue rather than sheer spectacle. Nevertheless, the seeds of the franchise’s formula are evident. Brian De Palma’s direction often sets up a plan only to throw unexpected obstacles in its path, showcasing his knack for suspense. The legendary break-in at the CIA headquarters remains one of the most meticulously crafted set pieces in the entire series.

Mission: Impossible is a popular American action spy film series, based on the 1966 television show created by Bruce Geller. The films primarily star Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt, an agent of the Impossible Missions Force (IMF), and are produced by Cruise himself.

• Directors: Brian De Palma, John Woo, J.J. Abrams, Brad Bird, Christopher McQuarrie
• Production companies: Bad Robot, Paramount Pictures
• Based on: Mission: Impossible by Bruce Geller
• Box office: $4.13 billion (across 7 films)
• Distributed by: Paramount Pictures

3. Concrete Utopia

Think of Concrete Utopia as an underrated gem. Set in a post-apocalyptic Seoul where only one skyscraper remains intact, the film explores the residents’ struggle to cope with a flood of outsiders seeking refuge. Tackling a range of issues—from the housing crisis to the dehumanization required to sustain anti-immigrant rhetoric—the film is bold in its approach. However, its fast-paced plot and dynamic performances ensure that the heavy themes never appear preachy.

4. Honey Boy

Given the serious abuse allegations against him, it isn’t easy to feel comfortable praising Shia LaBeouf. However, Honey Boy is undeniably moving. LaBeouf drew inspiration from his troubled childhood and the resulting PTSD to craft the screenplay. Lucas Hedges portrays a character closely resembling LaBeouf, while LaBeouf himself plays a version of his father, brimming with toxic anger.

Otis Lort, an alcoholic actor, gets into a violent altercation with the police while intoxicated and is subsequently sent to rehab. There, he is forced to confront his traumatic childhood and past.

• Release date: 8 November 2019 (USA)
• Director: Alma Har’el
• Screenplay: Shia LaBeouf
• Box office: $3.4 million
• Distributed by: Amazon MGM Studios
• Music by: Alex Somers

5. The Instigators

Matt Damon has been subtly establishing himself as the go-to star for “dad films.” His latest project, a comedy thriller reuniting him with *The Bourne Identity* director Doug Liman, features a mismatched duo of crooks who find themselves on the run when a heist goes awry, with their therapist in tow. The film boasts a nostalgic charm reminiscent of classics like *Midnight Run*. It also features a stellar cast, including Casey Affleck, Hong Chau, and Ving Rhames.

Rory and Cobby, an unlikely pair, are brought together for a heist that quickly goes wrong. Forced to join forces, they must evade the police, navigate through corrupt bureaucrats, and escape the wrath of a vengeful crime boss.

• Initial release: 2 August 2024
• Director: Doug Liman
• Distributed by: Apple TV+
• Box office: $11,106

6. Self Reliance

Self Reliance is a film that truly deserves a wider audience. Written and directed by Jake Johnson, who is perhaps best known for his role in New Girl, this comedy thriller stands out for its ability to balance humor and suspense effortlessly. Johnson stars as a man who participates in a dark web reality show where he’s hunted by strangers. The stakes are high: win and he earns a million dollars, lose and he dies. Johnson’s directorial debut is impressively confident, featuring remarkable set pieces and hinting at a promising future. Fans of The Game will find much to enjoy in this gripping film.

Tommy receives an invitation to participate in a deadly game for a chance to win $1 million, where he must outsmart hunters trying to kill him. He soon discovers that the hunters can only attack when he is alone. However, none of his friends or family believe the game is real, leaving him to fend for himself.

• Release date: 3 January 2024 (USA)
• Director: Jake Johnson
• Distributed by: Hulu, Neon, Paramount Global Content Distribution
• Cinematography: Adam Silver
• Music by: Dan Romer
• Produced by: Jake Johnson, Ali Bell, Joe Hardesty

7. Children of Men

One can only hope that *Children of Men* will someday cease to feel so relevant, but nearly 20 years after its release, that day has yet to arrive. Directed by Alfonso Cuarón, the film is set in a dystopian London where a global pandemic has led to mass infertility and the rise of a police state. Clive Owen delivers one of his best performances as a disillusioned bureaucrat who becomes entangled in a struggle against oppressive forces after witnessing a miraculous event. Cuarón’s direction, featuring innovative long takes and seamless cuts, remains groundbreaking and impactful even today.

In 2027, society teeters on the brink of extinction after 18 years of human infertility. When a woman miraculously becomes pregnant, Theo, a bureaucrat, is tasked with transporting her to safety.

• Release date: 22 September 2006 (UK)
• Director: Alfonso Cuarón
• Cinematography: Emmanuel Lubezki, Gary Tarn
• Distributed by: Universal Pictures, DreamWorks Pictures
• Adapted from: The Children of Men
• Budget: $76 million

 

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