TV Picks of the week

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  • ?TV PICKS

    Week commencing 5/12/2020

    For Virgin Media subscribers who can also access Sky Atlantic through Now TV.

    CODE

    SD: Presented in standard definition on VM.

    UHD: Presented in 4K on VM

    ? - Sounds good

    ? - Might be worth a look

    ? - New to TV

    ↔️ - Series

    ? - Film

    ? - Presented in Standard Definition only

    All programmes are presented in HD on Virgin Media unless otherwise indicated.

    ?SATURDAY

    5 December 2020

    ?↔️JUNGLE MYSTERY: LOST KINGDOMS OF THE AMAZON

    Documentary exploring evidence of ancient civilisations in the rainforest.

    ?Channel 4, 6.30pm

    ??EMMA (2020)?

    Emma Woodhouse gets herself a little too involved in the romantic lives of her friends in this film of the Jane Austen book.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 8pm

    ?BRITAIN’S WILDEST WEATHER

    ?Channel 4, 8.30pm

    TOP PICK

    ?↔️RAISED BY WOLVES ?

    In the 22nd century, two androids escape Earth after its destruction in a war, and settle on a habitable planet with 12 human embryos to start a new civilisations.

    ?Sky Atlantic, 9pm

    ?↔️X COMPANY

    Series 3 of this drama begins. Spymasters Sinclair and Fabre face off against one another. Neil and Harry face a tough road trip to try and locate Mari.

    ?Sky History 2, 9pm

    ?MARINA ABRAMOVIC TAKES OVER TV

    ?Sky Arts, 9pm

    ??THE MISSING (2003)

    In 19th century New Mexico, a woman must join forces with her estranged father to rescue her kidnapped daughter.

    ?Sony Movies, 9pm

    ??DIRTY GOD (2019) ?

    A young mother’s life is transformed after suffering an acid attack.

    ?BBC2, 10pm

    ?INTERSTELLAR (2014)?

    The occupants of a spaceship look for a new home to escape a dying Earth.

    ?Sky Cinema Sci-Fi/Horror, 10pm

    ??SUMMER CAMP (2015)?

    American counsellors working at a European summer camp fight to survive when a rage-inducing virus infects the children.

    ?Horror, 10.50pm

    ?CHER: SECRETS OF HER GREATEST HITS

    ?Channel 5, 10.55pm

    ?THE HUNTSMAN: WINTER’S WAR (2016)

    When Queen Ravenna is resurrected by her sister, Freya the Ice Queen, Eric the Huntsman and his band of allies must find a way to vanquish both sorceresses.

    ?Channel 4, 11pm

    ?↔️?THE 93 VICTIMS OF SAMUEL LITTLE

    Documentary.

    ?Quest Red, 11pm

    ?LOUIS THEROUX: MY SCIENTOLOGY MOVIE (2015)?

    When the reporter launches an investigation into the religion, he finds himself the subject of surveillance.

    ?BBC2, 11.40pm

    ?FINAL DESTINATION 5 (2011)?

    Survivors of a suspension bridge collapse find themselves being targeted one by one.

    ?ITV4, 11.45pm

    ??SPLICE (2009)?

    The employers of two rebellious scientists tell them to stop groundbreaking work that has seen them produce new creatures with medical benefits by splicing together multiple organisms’ DNA.

    ?Horror, 12.30 am

    ?SUNDAY

    6 December

    ?↔️WINTER’S HIDDEN WONDERS 

    How animals adapt to extremely low winter temperatures.

    National Geographic Wild, 6pm

    ?THE NIGHT WATCHMEN’S NATIVITY

    ?Sky Arts, 6pm

    ?↔️BIG CAT TALES

    Featuring the wildlife of the National Reserve in Kenya.

    ?Discovery, 6pm

    ?THE TOYS THAT MADE CHRISTMAS GREAT

    ?Channel 5, 7pm

    ?↔️JAMIE: KEEP COOKING AT CHRISTMAS

    ?Channel 4, 8pm

    TOP PICK

    ↔️?IN THE DARK ?

    When two girls from her home town are abducted, a detective returns to investigate.

    ?Drama, 8pm

    ?GARY BARLOW’S NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM

    Music from Gary Barlow’s latest album as well of some of his hits.

    ?ITV, 9pm

    ?WE LOVE DAD’S ARMY

    The back-story of the series.

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?NEED FOR SPEED (2014)?

    Determined to take down his treacherous rival, a street-car racer runs through a cross-country gauntlet of cops and bounty hunters to enter the most prestigious race in the underground racing circuit.

    ?Syfy, 9pm

    ??CRITICAL THINKING (2020)?

    This is a true story of how an inspirational teacher encourages some teenagers to learn chess and enter a high level competition.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 9.45pm

    ?WHEN TV FAVOURITES GO HORRIBLY WRONG

    ?Channel 5, 10.25pm

    ??ONCE UPON A TIME...IN HOLLYWOOD?

    A failing actor and his stunt double try to achieve success in a Hollywood they don’t recognise any more.

    ?Sky Cinema 2020, 10.30pm

    ?SHAUN OF THE DEAD (2004)?

    Amusing comedy horror film about a zombie invasion in London.

    ?ITV4, 11.40pm

    ↔️ARCTIC SECRETS (UHD)

    Series 2 begins.

    ?Virgin Ultra HD, 11.40pm

    ?INSIDIOUS: THE LAST KEY (2018)?

    A parapsychology story and her team investigate a claim of a haunting in her childhood home. She must soon confront and destroy her greatest fear - the demon that she accidentally set free years earlier.

    ?Channel 4, 12.30 am

    ?↔️IMPRACTICAL JOKERS: DINNER PARTY

    ?Comedy Central, 1.25am

    ?MONDAY

    7 December

    ??RACHEL KHOO’S CHOCOLATE SPECIAL

    ?Food Network, 7pm

    ↔️INTO THE WILD COLOMBIA ( UHD)

    ?Virgin Ultra HD, 7.20pm

    ?↔️AMERICA’S TOP DOG

    Elite dogs and their handlers.

    ?Sky History, 8pm

    POCAHOTAS: THE TRUE STORY (UHD)

    The real story is told in this drama about the relationship between the Native American princess and the English adventurer John Smith.

    ?Virgin Ultra HD, 8.10pm 

    ?CORONATION STREET: 60 UNFORGETTABLE YEARS

    Joanna Lumley presents.

    ?ITV, 8.30pm

    ?↔️THE VICAR OF DIBLEY IN LOCKDOWN?

    Return of the comedy series.

    ?BBC1, 8.50pm

    ?↔️INSIDE POUNDLAND: SECRETS FROM THE SHOP FLOOR

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ?NOW YOU SEE ME (2013)?

    A team of magicians confuse the FBI as they embark upon a series of crimes.

    ?Sky One, 9pm

    ?↔️EUPHORIA: TROUBLE DON’T LAST ALWAYS

    ?Sky Atlantic, 9pm

    ?↔️?FEEDERS

    People who get paid to gain weight.

    ?5STAR, 9pm

    ?RED PENGUINS

    A Storyville documentary about the Pittsburgh Penguins and Red Army ice hockey teams.

    ?BBC4, 10pm

    ?NOT YOUR AVERAGE INFLUENCERS

    The life of Charlie Allen.

    ?BBC Scotland, 10.30pn

    ?THE MAN WHO WANTED TO FLY 

    ? (Except NI)

    A man who fixes clocks and makes violins from old furniture has used all his savings to buy a plane.

    ?BBC1 Northern Ireland, 10.45pm

    ?↔️NEWQUAY: 24/7 PARTY PEOPLE

    Four groups of young people find out if Newquay lives up to its hype as the UK’s party capital.

    ?Channel 4, 11.05pm

    ??LEAN ON PETE (2017)?

    An old racehorse is befriended by a teenager working during the summer holidays.  When he learns that the horse is bound for slaughter, the two embark on an odyssey across the new American frontier in search of a place to call home.

    ?Film4, 11.15pm

    ?↔️THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES ?

    Drama. Joyce is happy with her life but everything is turned on it’s head after an accident. She wakes up with memories that are not hers and finds recurring chance meetings with a professor of art extremely unnerving.

    ?BBC2, 12.20am

    ??45 YEARS ?

    As their 45th wedding anniversary approaches, a woman learns that her husband  was once engaged to someone else.

    ?Film4, 1.40am

  • ?TUESDAY

    8 December 

    ??JULIE & JULIA (2009)?

    An American expat casts an influence on an office worker in New York following the Twin Towers terrorist incident.

    ?Sony Movies, 6.40pm

    ?THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 

    Performers include Sheridan Smith, Gary Barlow, Steps, Melanie C, Jon Courtenay and Michael Ball.

    ?ITV, 8pm

    ?↔️ACCUSED: TRIAL IN THE OUTBACK

    The case of Linda Chamberlain, who was accused of murdering her baby after she alleged it was attacked by a dingo.

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?THE BANKSY JOB

    ?Sky Arts, 9pm

    ??A MOST VIOLENT YEAR (2014)?

    In 1981, an immigrant tries to run his business in the face of violence.

    ?Sony Movies, 9pm

    ?BLACK AND BLUE (2019)?

    When a rookie cop witnesses the murder of a drug dealer, she finds herself in danger from both the police and criminals.

    ?Sky Cinema Thriller, 9pm

    ?DEN OF THIEVES (2018)?

    Criminals planning a bank robbery are targeted by the sheriff’s department in Los Angeles.

    ?Film4, 9pm

    ??THE STEPFATHER (2009)?

    A young man discovers that his mother’s seemingly perfect new boyfriend is concealing a dark past.

    ?Horror, 9pm

    ??MESSAGE MAN (2018)

    A former assassin reappears from an Indonesian island to protect a family from pirates.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 10.10pm

    ?BARBARA RUBIN AND THE EXPLODING NY UNDERGROUND

    ?Sky Arts, 10.30pm

    ?HARRIET (2019)?

    Based on a true story, Harriet Tubman manages to escape slavery and then dedicated her life to rescuing others.

    ?Sky Best of 2020, 10.30pm

    ?LILY: A TRANSGENDER STORY

    ?Except in Wales.

    ?BBC1 Wales, 10.45pm

    ?LEGEND (2015)?

    The story of the Kray Brothers, a notorious pair of criminals who used to terrorise London.

    ?Film4, 11.25pm

    ?WEDNESDAY

    9 December

    ??LOVE SARAH 2020) ?

    A young woman wishes to fulfil her mother’s dream of opening her own bakery in Notting Hill.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 6.15pm

    ??MARIE ANTOINETTE (2006)?

    Historical drama about the ill-fated queen who was ultimately sent to the guillotine before hitting 40 years old.

    ?Sony Movies, 6.40pm

    ?DON’T LET GO (2019)

    A detective has to work together across time to solve a crime that involved the murder of his niece.

    ?Sky Cinema Thriller, 7pm

    ?↔️ICE ROAD RESCUE: HIGHWAY HAVOC!

    Food trucks negotiate Norway’s roads in winter.

    ?National Geographic, 8pm

    ?CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK: INSIDE THE PLAZA

    Documentary about the Manhattan Hotel and its employees over the Christmas holiday.

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ↔️DYNAMO: BEYOND BELIEF

    A second chance to see this amazing programme about the magician and how he made the most from his debilitating illness that resulted from Crohn’s Disease.

    ?Sky One, 9pm

    ?QUEENS OF THE STREET

    Some of the female stars of Coronation Street who have appeared over the last 60 years of the soap.

    ?ITV, 9pm

    ??THE GOD CODE 

    Investigating the views expressed by some that God wrote the Bible. An antiquities dealer believes he has found a hidden code within the text.

    ?Blaze, 9pm

    ?HOT FUZZ (2007)

    Hotshot police officer Nicholas Angel smells foul play when the residents of a sleepy village start to die in terrible ‘accidents’

    ?ITV4, 10pm

    ??DREAMGIRLS (2006)?

    When an ambitious manager gives them a shot at stardom, three singers learn that fame can carry a high personal cost.

    ?5STAR, 10pm

    ?↔️MEET THE RICHARDSONS AT CHRISTMAS

    The families attempt to create the perfect Christmas for daughter Elsie. Jon is against the commercialisation of the season and wants to keep the season as pure, but Lucy just wants a big tree.

    ?Dave, 10pm

    ?MOBO AWARDS 2020

    ?BBC1, 10.45pm

    ↔️MONKEY ISLAND (UHD)

    ?Virgin Ultra HD, 12 m’t

    ?THURSDAY

    10 December

    ?BROOKLYN (2015)?

    An immigrant in the 1950s commences a new life in New York, but unfortunately her past life catches up with her.

    ?BBC4, 8pm

    ?↔️NADIYA’S AMERICAN ADVENTURE

    Nadia Hussein travels to Louisiana to explore some of America’s most vibrant cuisines.

    ?BBC1, 8pm

    ?SNACKMASTERS

    Chefs try to work out how various snacks are made to taste like the originals.

    ?Channel 4, 8pm

    TOP PICK

    ?↔️TIN STAR: LIVERPOOL?

    Jim and his family return to Liverpool to face down the gangs who are after them.

    ?Sky Atlantic, 9pm

    ?↔️OUTMATCHED

    Mike and Kay are worried that the geniuses of their children may find it difficult to relate to other children of their age.

    ?Fox, 9pm

    ?FERGIE’S KILLER DRESSER: THE JANE ANDREWS STORY

    ?ITV, 9pm

    ?HOARDERS, MEGA HOARDS AND HORROR HOMES

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?GIFTED (2017) ?

    A man’s mother gets in the way of his plans to raise his niece, who is a child prodigy.

    ?Film4, 9pm

    ??ADAM (2020) ?

    A mortgage broker who becomes quadriplegic after a devastating accident is given a reason to live by his carer.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 9.45pm

    ?IMPOSSIBLE BUILDS

    A building in the Tamar Valley, Cornwall, which has been inspired by a beehive.

    ?More4, 10pm

    ?THE BEGUILED (2017)?

    A wounded soldier seeks refuge in a girls’ boarding school.

    ?BBC2, 11.30pm

    ?FRIDAY

    11 December

    ?SENNA (2010)?

    Documentary about Brazilian Formula One racing driver Ayrton Senna before his death at age 34.

    ?Sky Documentaries, 7pm

    ??BRIDGE TO TERABITHIA (2007) ?

    Two children escape their worries by entering a fantasy world.

    ?Sony Movies, 7.05pm

    ??POLICING THE POLICE 2020

    Documentary on US law enforcement

    ?PBS America, 7.45pm

    ??LITTLE WOMEN (2019)?

    An excellent version of the novel about four sisters living in New England during the American Civil War.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 8pm

    ?JO BRAND’S HOW TO STAY SANE IN A MAD WORLD

    ?Channel 4, 8pm

    ??THE MERCY (2017) ?

    The true story of Donald Crowhurst, who designed his own boat to compete in the round-the-world yacht race in 1968.

    ?BBC2, 9pm

    OL PEJETA DIARIES

    Kenya’s largest and busiest private game reserves.

    ?Sky Nature, 9pm

    ?CORNWALL’S MOST IMPORTANT SCENIC RAILWAY JOURNEYS

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?SIR STIRLING MOSS - THE UNCROWNED KING OF F1

    ?Sky Documentaries, 9pm

    ??BRAVEN (2018) ?

    A group of drug runners threaten a logger and his family.

    ?Sony Movies, 9pm

    ?WORLD WAR Z (2013) ?

    A zombie pandemic threatens to destroy humanity.

    ?E4, 9pm

    ?HELL OR HIGH WATER (2016) ?

    Two brothers launch a last-ditch plan to rescue their Texas ranch.

    ?Film4, 9pm

    ?DIONNE WARWICK AT THE BBC

    ?BBC4, 10pm

    ?↔️BIG ZULU’S CHRISTMAS EATS

    ?Dave, 10pm

    ?STARRED UP (2013) ?

    A young offender joins his father in prison and realises that he must learn how to control his propensity to violence.

    ?Film4, 11.05pm

    ?BROS: AFTER THE SCREAMING STOPS

    ?BBC4, 12.30am

  • ?TV PICKS

    Week commencing 12/12/2020

    For Virgin Media subscribers who can also access Sky Atlantic through Now TV.

    CODE

    SD: Presented in standard definition on VM.

    UHD: Presented in 4K on VM

    ? - Sounds good

    ? - Might be worth a look

    ? - New to TV

    ↔️ - Series

    ? - Film

    ? - Presented in Standard Definition only

    All programmes are presented in HD on Virgin Media unless otherwise indicated.

    ?SATURDAY

    12 December 2020

    ?SCOTLAND: MY LIFE IN THE WILD

    ?Channel 4, 6pm

    ↔️EXTREME AFRICA (UHD) 

    ??Virgin Ultra HD, 6.30pm

    ??THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR (2008)

    A woman who is dedicated to her work learns to enjoy Christmas.

    ?Christmas 24, 7pm

    ?ROSES vs QUALITY STREET: CHOCOLATE BOX WARS

    ?Channel 5, 7.40pm

    ?THE GENE: AN INTIMATE HISTORY

    Documentary about human genome mapping and the dangers in learning to read the genetic code of DNA.

    ?PBS America, 8.30pm

    ?PRINCESS ALICE: THE ROYALS’ GREATEST SECRET

    Princess Alice of Battenberg.

    ?Channel 5, 8.35pm

    ?NOW YOU SEE ME (2013)?

    Thriller in which four magicians get together to pull off crimes and confuse the police in the process.

    ?Sky One, 9pm

    ↔️V ?

    When aliens land pledging peace and friendship, doubts come to the fore about the sincerity of their reassurance.

    ?Syfy, 9pm

    ?COLDPLAY: A HEAD FULL OF DREAMS

    ?Sky Arts, 9pm

    ??THE GOOD SHEPHERD (2006) ?

    An American carries out spying activities during the Second World War and goes on to be one of the founder members of the CIA.

    ?Sony Movies, 9pm

    ??EDGE OF TOMORROW (2014) ?

    A soldier is captured by an extraterrestrial enemy and is killed and brought back to life over and over to fight the same battle.

    ?TCM Movies, 9pm

    ?THE SHAPE OF WATER (2017)?

    A cleaner makes a startling discovery while working at a laboratory.

    ?Channel 4, 9.30pm

    ?BLACK CHRISTMAS (2019)?

    Hawthorne College is quieting down for the holidays. One by one, sorority girls on Camus are being killed by a hooded stalker.  But then  the girls fight back...

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 10.20pm

    ↔️FRINGE?

    A mystery surrounds a plane that has landed with all the passengers dead.

    ?Syfy, 11.10pm

    ↔️OVER AUSTRALIA (UHD)

    ?Virgin Ultra HD, 11.35pm

    ??A MOST VIOLENT YEAR (2014) ?

    In 1981, an immigrant tries to run his business in the face of violence.

    ?Sony Movies, 12.20am

    ?SUNDAY

    13 December

    ?CAN ALZHEIMER’S BE STOPPED?

    ?PBS America, 11.45am

    ?THE YOUNG VICTORIA (2009)?

    Queen Victoria’s life in her younger days.

    ?BBC2, 3.50pm

    ?KONG: SKULL ISLAND (2017)?

    Scientists, soldiers and adventurers encounter the mighty Kong and other monstrous creatures after travelling to an unchartered island in the Pacific Ocean.

    ?ITV2, 6.45pm

    ?I’M A CELEBRITY...A CASTLE STORY

    Hosts Ant and Dec and the 2020 participants look back on the best bits of the competition.

    ?ITV, 8pm

    ?MORTIMER & WHITEHOUSE: GONE CHRISTMAS FISHING

    ?BBC2, 8.10pm

    ?DES O’CONNOR: THE ULTIMATE ENTERTAINER

    ?ITV, 9pm

    ?THE BEE GEES: HOW CAN YOU MEND A BROKEN HEART?

    ?Sky Documentaries, 9pm

    ?CAPTIVATED: THE TRIALS OF PAMELA SMART (2014) ?

    Documentary exploring the first televised court case, as a woman stood trial for the murder of her husband.

    ?Sky Crime, 9pm

    ??SINISTER (2012)?

    An author with writer’s block decides to move into a haunted house to get some inspiration.

    ?Horror, 9pm

    ?THE CHRISTMAS MISADVENTURES OF ROMESH RANGANATHAN

    ?BBC2, 9.10pm

    ?DAVID BLAINE: REAL OR MAGIC?

    ?Sky One, 10pm

    ??ONE WAY TO DENMARK (2019)

    Comedy about a depressed man who decides to get himself imprisoned in a ‘cushy Denmark prison’ by robbing a bank.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 10.20pm

    ?MOTHER! (2017) ?

    Uninvited guests arrive at the home of a couple and disrupt their happy existence.

    ?Channel 4, 12.05am

    ?MONDAY

    14 December

    ?CHEF vs CORNER SHOP

    Culinary contest.

    ?Channel 4, 5.30pm

    ?↔️BRITAIN’S STRONGEST MAN

    ?Channel 5, 7pm

    ?↔️THE JOY OF PAINTING

    ?BBC2, 7.30pm

    ?FOOD UNWRAPPED’S FESTIVE FEAST

    ?Channel 4, 8pm

    ↔️?STRIKE: CAREER OF EVIL?

    A second chance to see series 3. A dismembered leg sent to Strike’s office sends both his and Robin’s lives into disarray.

    ?Drama, 8pm

    ?↔️THE REAL FULL MONTY: ON ICE

    Ashley Banjo prepares celebrities in performing the famous striptease scene on a skating rink to highlight the importance of checking the body for signs of cancer.

    ?ITV, 9pm

    ?THE TERMINAL (2004)?

    Comedy about a traveller from Eastern Europe who becomes stranded at JFK Airport due to a coup back home.

    ?Film4, 9pm

    ?JOHN WICK (2014)?

    A former assassin is provoked into a rage when a criminal kills his dog.

    ?Sky One, 9pm

    ??PANIC ROOM (2002)?

    A woman and her daughter retreat to a panic room in their home when three burglars break in.

    ?Sony Movies, 9pm

    TOP PICK

    ↔️BEECHAM HOUSE

    John Beecham arrives at a mansion determined to leave his past behind and start a new life. However, he carries with him a secret - a baby of mixed parentage who must be kept in hiding.

    ?ITV3, 10pm

    ?JUST MERCY (2019)?

    A true story about a death row prisoner who appeals his conviction.

    ?Sky Cinema Best of 2020, 10pm

    ?FOOD FACTORIES

    ?Smithsonian Channel, 11pm

    TOP PICK

    ?VICEROY’S HOUSE (2017)?

    A British statesman, Lord Mountbatten, serves as India’s last Viceroy in 1947 and is charged with handing India back to its people.

    ?BBC2, 12.30am

  • ?TUESDAY

    15 December

    ?↔️THE GREAT BRITISH BAKE OFF:THE WINNERS

    ?Channel 4, 8pm

    ?BURIED SECRETS OF KEROS

    We see possibly the world’s oldest maritime sanctuary.

    ?National Geographic, 8pm

    TOP PICK

    ?↔️TRANSPLANT ?

    Drama about a doctor who finds himself at the site of a tragic accident. His medical training takes over as he battles to save the wounded. 

    ?Sky Witness, 9pm

    ??ABOUT TIME (2013)

    A man uses his ability to travel through time to win the woman of his dreams and save his friend from professional disaster.

    ?5STAR, 9pm

    ?INSIDE KFC AT CHRISTMAS

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ?CHRISTMAS AT HAMPTON COURT

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ??A KIND OF MURDER (2016)?

    An architect faces danger when he threatens to unmask a killer.

    ?Sony Movies, 9pm

    ?THE YEAR THAT CHANGED LOVE

    The Covid emergency measures led an Edinburgh couple to go into lockdown with each other after only one date.

    ?Channel 4, 10pm

    ?JODI ARIAS: CELL MATE SECRETS

    ?CI, 10pm

    ?THE ISLANDS AND THE WHALES

    ?BBC Scotland, 10pm

    ?WEDNESDAY

    16 December 

    ?VICKY McCLURE’S DEMENTIA CHOIR AT CHRISTMAS

    ?BBC1, 7.30pm

    ?THE KING’S SPEECH (2010)?

    The future George VI employs a speech therapist to help him overcome a debilitating stammer.

    ?BBC2, 9pm

    ?GORDON, GINO & FRED: DESPERATELY SEEKING SANTA

    Gordon Ramsey, Gino D’Acampo and Fred Sirieix go to Lapland.

    ?ITV, 9pm

    ?ZERO DARK THIRTY (2012)?

    A CIA agent leads the hunt for Osama bin Laden following 9/11.

    ?Sky Cinema Thriller, 9pm

    ?↔️CHRISTMAS AT HIGHCLERE CASTLE

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ?THE VANISHING OF SUZY LAMPLUGH

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?537 VOTES

    A custody battle over Elian Gonzalez.

    ?Sky Documentaries, 9pm

    ?THE MOMENTS THAT MADE ELAINE C SMITH

    ?BBC Scotland, 10pm

    ??THEN CAME YOU (2019)?

    A widow becomes friendly with an engaged innkeeper.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 10.20pm

    ?REPORTING CORONAVIRUS

    Some extraordinary stories have arisen during the pandemic.

    ?ITV, 10.45pm

    ?PRISONERS (2013) ?

    After two little girls disappear, a father takes the law into his own hands.

    ?Film4, 11.05pm

    ?THURSDAY 

    17 December

    ?BARGAIN-LOVING BRITS IN THE SUN AT CHRISTMAS

    ?Channel 5, 8pm

    ?FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD (2015)?

    Period drama. A woman struggling with her independence attracts the attention of three different men.

    ?BBC4, 8pm

    ??SALT (2019)?

    When a CIA agent realises that a Russian defector has told her bosses that she is a double agent, she has to disappear quickly before she is hunted down.

    ?Sony Movies, 9pm

    ?INSIDE LIDL AT CHRISTMAS

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN: CHRISTMAS PARTY

    ?Sky One, 9pm

    ?THE SAVOY AT CHRISTMAS

    ?ITV, 9pm

    ?SOUL OF AMERICA

    Documentary examining the political climate of the US.

    ?Sky Documentaries, 9pm

    ?DOCTOR SLEEP (2019)?

    A man is haunted by his past, many years after his father tried to murder him and his mother.

    ?Sky Best of 2020, 10.15pm

    ??THE BAY OF SILENCE (2020)?

    An architect’s wife goes missing after suffering a breakdown following her pregnancy, leaving a small case containing clues to where she has gone.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 10.20pm

    ?AN EDUCATION ?

    A teenager living in London in the 1960s risks everything when she falls under the spell of a charming, but much older suitor.

    ?BBC2, 12.30am

    TOP PICK

    ?A CURE FOR WELLNESS (2016)?

    An ambitious young executive is sent to retrieve his company’s CEO from an idyllic but mysterious ‘wellness centre’, but soon suspects that the spa’s treatments are not what they seem.

    ?Channel 4, 1.50am

    ?FRIDAY

    18 December

    ?COPPELIA (UHD)

    A ballet performed by the Victor Ullate Ballet.

    ?Virgin Ultra HD, 2pm

    STINGRAY FESTIVAL 4K (UHD)

    ?Virgin Ultra HD, 3.50pm

    ??NICK & NORAH’S INFINITE PLAYLIST (2008)?

    Teen comedy in which two people experience a series of chaotic events while trying to find a secret rock concert.

    ?Sony Movies Action, 7.15pm

    ??SONIC THE HEDGEHOG (PG) (2020)

    With Jim Carrey. The kids will like this.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 8pm

    ?DAD’S ARMY (2016)?

    A modern take on the series with a new cast. I haven’t seen this, but I can’t see this living up to the standard of the original.

    ?ITV3, 8pm

    ?GEORGE CLARKE’S AMAZING SPACES: WINTER WORLD TOUR

    ?Channel 4, 8pm

    ?THE HOLIDAY (2006)

    Two women agree to swap houses and both embark on new relationships.

    ?ITV2, 8pm

    ??THE HAPPY PRINCE (2018)?

    Oscar Wilde is released from prison and decides to go to France to rebuild his life.

    ?BBC2, 9pm

    ??DRIVE (2011) ?

    A man is always in control behind the wheel, whether as a getaway driver, a stunt driver or just cruising by night. But he allows his involvement with an attractive neighbour to lead him into conflict.

    ?Sony Movies, 9pm

    ??BAD SAMARITAN 2018)?

    Burglars who break into a house find a captive woman.

    ?Horror, 9pm

    ?CELEBRITY GOGGLEBOX: THE BEST OF 2020

    A ‘new’ compilation of repeat material!

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ?THIS IS 40 ?

    As they contemplate turning 40, a couple experience a series of crises.

    ?Comedy Central, 9pm

    ?JANE McDONALD: CHRISTMAS CRUISING

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?MICKY FLANAGAN: PEEPING BEHIND THE CURTAIN

    ?Sky One, 9pm

    ?LATE LATE SHOW CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?Sky One, 10.30pm

    ?COUNTRY CHRISTMAS

    Stars of country music perform Christmas classics and festive collaborations.

    ?BBC 4, 11pm

  • ?TV PICKS

    Week commencing 19/12/2020

    For Virgin Media subscribers who can also access Sky Atlantic through Now TV.

    CODE

    SD: Presented in standard definition on VM.

    UHD: Presented in 4K on VM

    ? - Sounds good

    ? - Might be worth a look

    ? - New to TV

    ↔️ - Series

    ? - Film

    ? - Especially for the kids

    ? - Presented in Standard Definition only

    All programmes are presented in HD on Virgin Media unless otherwise indicated.

    ————————-

    ?SATURDAY

    19 December 2020

    —————————-

    ??WRECK-IT-RALPH (2012)(PG)

    Children’s animation.

    ?BBC1, 2.55pm

    ?THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS: THE NEW MUSICAL (UHD)

    Ratty, Badger, Mole and the impulsive Toad embark on a series of riotous adventures spiralling from Toad’s insatiable need for speed.

    ?Virgin Ultra HD, 2pm

    ?THE MASKED SINGER: THE STORY SO FAR

    Behind the scenes.

    ?ITV, 5pm

    ??THE POLAR EXPRESS (2004)(U)

    A young boy who is sceptical about Santa Claus travels to the North Pole.

    ?Sky One, 5pm

    ?↔️CELEBRITY MASTERMIND

    ?BBC1, 5.25pm

    ↔️EXTREME AFRICA

    ?Sky Nature, 7pm

    ?↔️CRIKEY! IT’S THE IRWINS

    Terri races against time to keep all the animals fed when the pandemic strikes.

    ?Animal Planet, 7pm

    ?ANCIENT EGYPT: RICHES AND RULERS

    ?National Geographic, 8pm

    ?IT’LL BE ALRIGHT ON THE NIGHT AT CHRISTMAS

    With David Williams.

    ?ITV, 8.20pm

    ?HOME ALONE: BRITAIN’S FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS MOVIE

    Documentary about the film.

    ?Channel 5, 8.20 on

    ?WHAT WE WERE WATCHING: CHRISTMAS 1995

    ?BBC4, 8.20pm

    ?↔️BARENBOIM ON BEETHOVEN

    ?More4, 8.20pm

    ?MICHAEL BUBLE LIVE: TOUR STOP 148

    ?Sky Arts, 8.20pm

    ?ENDER’S GAME (2013)?

    A youth with an unusual gift is selected for advanced military training to lead Earth’s forces in an intensive war against alien invaders that almost destroyed the planet once before.

    ?Syfy, 9pm

    ??THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA (2006)?

    A young journalism graduate lands a job as assistant to the ruthless and powerful editor of a renowned New York fashion magazine.

    ?5STAR, 9pm

    ?EGYPT’S FEMALE PHARAOHS

    ?National Geographic, 9pm

    ??RED LIGHTS (2012)

    An investigator faces danger when he tries to prove that a psychic of renown is a fraud.

    ?Horror, 9pm

    ?IDRIS ELBA MEETS PAUL McCARTNEY

    ?BBC1, 9.20pm

    ?MY GENERATION

    Michael Caine takes us through 1960s London.

    ?BBC2, 9.20pm

    ??HAPPIEST SEASON (2020)?

    A young woman takes her girl friend home for Christmas, without telling her conservative-minded family that she is gay.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 9.45pm

    ↔️GREAT PARKS OF AFRICA

    ?Sky Nature, 10pm

    ??HECTOR (2015)?

    A wandering homeless man heads to London to find a Christmas shelter. Along the way, the story of how his comfortable life vanished into vagrancy emerges.

    ?BBC Scotland, 10.30pm

    ?SAFE HOUSE (2012)?

    A CIA man is tasked with keeping watch over a murderous rogue agent.

    ?ITV4, 10.45pm

    ?GREAT EXPECTATIONS

    An up-to-date version of the Charles Dickens novel.

    ?BBC2, 12.30am

    ———————-

    ?SUNDAY

    20 December

    ———————-

    ??HETTY FEATHER (UHD)

    A musical adaptation about orphan Hetty Feather and her struggles at the Foundling Hospital.

    ?Virgin Ultra HD, 2pm

    ??THE MAN WHO INVENTED CHRISTMAS (2017)(PG)

    ?Channel 4, 4.55pm

    ??THE GRINCH (2018)(U)

    Animation for children.

    ?ITV2, 5.20pm

    ??ELF (2003) (PG)

    A man who was raised as an elf goes in search of his real parents.

    ?Sky One, 7pm

    ?WILD LAPLAND

    ?National Geographic Wild, 7pm

    ?LUXURY CRUISES: FROM BOOM TO BUST

    ?Channel 4, 7pm

    ️ LIVE

    ?SPORTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR

    ?BBC1, 8pm

    ??MISBEHAVIOUR (2020)?

    A beauty pageant is invaded by a liberation movement in 1970.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 8pm

    ?MICHAEL PALIN’S HIMALAYA: JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME

    ?BBC2, 8pm

    ?THE CUBE CELEBRITY SPECIAL

    ?ITV, 8pm

    ?ROYAL ANTIQUES REPAIRERS

    ?Channel 4, 8pm

    ?ROBIN HOOD (2010) (UHD)

    Action adventure based on the story of Robin Hood starring Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett, William Hurt and Matthew MacFadyen.

    ?Virgin Ultra HD, 9pm

    ?DEVON AND CORNWALL AT CHRISTMAS

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ?VICTORIA WOOD: IN HER OWN WORDS

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?↔️MURDER ON MIDDLE BEACH

    Documentary.

    ?Sky Crime, 9pm

    ?LOST TOMBS OF THE PYRAMIDS

    ?National Geographic, 9pm

    ?LOOPER (2012)?

    A hitman has to journey into the future to prevent himself from going on the rampage.

    ?Syfy, 9pm

    ?BRADLEY WALSH’S HOW TO WIN A GAME SHOW

    ?ITV, 9.15pm

    ??THE DEATH OF STALIN?

    Satirical black comedy about Josef Stalin’s last days and the chaos erupting all around him.

    ?BBC2, 9.30pm

    ?EXTREMELY WICKED, SHOCKINGLY EVIL AND VILE (2019)?

    Biopic of serial murderer Ted Bundy.

    ?Sky Witness, 10pm

    ?THE BIG SICK (2017)

    A Pakistani comic becomes worried about what his traditional Muslim parents will think of his American girlfriend, but when she becomes ill, he suddenly finds himself bonding with her concerned parents.

    ?BBC1, 12.10am

    ————————-

    ?MONDAY

    21 December

    ————————-

    ??SHARK TALE (2004)(U)

    ?ITV2, 9.05am

    ?KINKY BOOTS (2005) (UHD)

    A shoe factory is on the verge of closing down when the reluctant and desperate owner is inspired by an outrageous drag Queen to switch production to saucy footwear for transvestites.

    ?Virgin Ultra HD, 2pm

    ??HAPPY FEET (2006) (U)

    Musical animation.

    ?ITV2, 4.35pm

    ??CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY (2005)(U)

    ?ITV2, 6.45pm

    ?MARCUS RASHFORD: FEEDING BRITAIN’S CHILDREN

    ?BBC1, 7pm

    ?GLOBAL CITIZEN PRIZE SHOW

    ?Sky One, 7pm

    ?THE GREAT FOOD GUYS CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?BBC Scotland, 8pm

    ?↔️EUROPE’S STRONGEST MAN

    ?Channel 5, 7pm

    ??DOG RESCUERS AT CHRISTMAS

    ?5Select, 7pm

    ?INSIDE JOHN LEWIS: TROUBLE AT RHE TILLS

    ?Channel 4, 8pm

    ?↔️CHRISTMAS UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE

    ?BBC2, 8.30pm

    ?UPSTART CROW: LOCKDOWN CHRISTMAS 1603

    ?BBC2, 9pm

    ?↔️CELEBRITY MASTERCHEF CHRISTMAS COOK-OFF

    ?BBC1, 9pm

    ?A MILLION WAYS TO DIE IN THE WEST (2014) (UHD)?

    A pistol-packing woman helps a cowardly farmer find his inner courage, but when her outlaw husband rides into town seeking revenge, the farmer must put his newfound bravery to the test.

    ?Virgin Ultra HD, 9pm

    ?THE BIG SOAP QUIZ: CORONATION STREET v EMMERDALE

    ?ITV, 9pm

    ?ART OF WAR

    Sun Tzu’s ‘Art of War’ was written 2,400 years ago and is the ultimate guide to human conflict.

    ?Sky History, 9pm

    ??A CHRISTMAS TO CHERISH (2019)

    Romantic comedy.

    ?Christmas 24, 9pm

    ?DAVID JASON: BRITAIN’S FAVOURITE STAR

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?8 OUT OF 10 CATS DOES COUNTDOWN CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ?↔️MOONBASE 8

    Comedy.

    ?Sky Comedy, 9pm

    ?NATIONAL THEATRE: TWELFTH NIGHT

    ?Sky Arts, 9pm

    ?MOCK THE WEEK CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?BBC2, 10pm

    ?AT FIRST LIGHT (2017)

    A close encounter with a mysterious light sends two teens on the run after one discovers she has extraordinary but dangerous powers.

    ?Syfy, 10pm

    ?WHEN CLASSIC COMEDY GOES HORRIBLY WRONG

    ?Channel 5, 10.30pm

    ?RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARCHIVE: CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?BBC Scotland, 10.30pm

    ?THE REVENANT (2015)?

    Based on a true story, an American mountain man is left for dead after being mauled by a bear.

    ?BBC2, 10.35pm

    ?SHORT STUFF CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?BBC Scotland, 11pm

  • ————————

    ?TUESDAY

    22 December

    ————————

    ?42nd STREET (2019)(UHD)?

    A talented young performer has stars in her eyes gets her big break on Broadway. Stars Bonnie Langford.

    ?Virgin Ultra HD, 2pm

    ?THE GOING WRONG SHOW: THE NATIVITY

    ?BBC1, 7pm

    ?SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING (2017)?

    Under the watchful eye of his mentor, high school student Peter Parker starts to embrace his new found identity as Spider-Man. But when the evil Vulture emerges to wreak havoc, everything Peter loves is put in jeopardy.

    ?BBC1, 7.55pm

    ?NIGELLA’S COOK, EAT, REPEAT CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?BBC2, 8pm

    ?CHRISTMAS WITH THE YORKSHIRE VETS

    ?Channel 5, 8pm

    TORVILL AND DEAN

    Drama covering the real life pair and how they became the famous skating duo they were.

    ?ITV3, 8pm

    ?JULIE ANDREWS FOREVER

    ?Sky Arts, 8pm

    ?↔️EVO CAR OF THE YEAR

    ?ITV4, 8pm

    ?BEING BRIDGET JONES

    ?BBC2, 9pm

    ?ALL CREATURES GREAT & SMALL: CHRISTMAS SPECIAL?

    James and Helen are called out to rescue a dog in Labour but are trapped by fog, leaving precious little time for Helen to return for her wedding.

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?BRIDESMAIDS (2011) ?

    A woman takes on the strange and expensive rituals associated with being her best friend’s maid of honour.

    ?ITV2, 9pm

    ↔️STRIKE - THE CUCKOO’S CALLING?

    A private detective is asked to investigate the death of a supermodel.

    ?Alibi, 9pm

    ?BAGHDAD DIARY

    Documentary on the Iraq War and its aftermath.

    ?Sky History, 9pm

    ?THE WOLF OF WALL STREET (2013)?

    In 1987, New York stockbroker Jordan Belford, who founded brokerage firm Stratton Oakmont while still in his early 20s, develops habits of wretched excess and corruption while the SEC and FBI are closing in.

    ?ITV4, 10pm

    ?SCOTLAND’S PEOPLE 2020

    ?BBC Scotland, 10pm

    ?BLITZ (2011) ?

    (?Sky only)

    A detective sargeant is assigned to track down a dangerous serial killer who has been picking off police officers.

    ?Paramount Network, 10pm

    ?COLLATERAL (2004)?

    A contract killer uses a cab driver to make a tour involving five different stops for $600.

    ?BBC1, 10.40pm

    ?OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY (2016)?

    When the CEO tries to close her hard-partying brother’s branch, he and his chief technical officer must inspire their co-workers and host an epic office Christmas party in an effort to impress a potential client and save their jobs.

    ?Channel 4, 11pm

    ?BLACK NATIVITY (2013)?

    A streetwise teen discovers the value of faith, healing and family after he goes to New Tork to spend Christmas with his estranged relatives.

    ?Channel 4, 2.45am

    ————————-

    ?WEDNESDAY

    23 December

    ————————-

    ??FINDING DORY (2016)(U)

    Animation.

    ?BBC1, 3.40pm

    ?MARY BERRY SAVES CHRISTMAS

    ?BBC1, 6.30pm

    ?THE MAGICAL WORLD OF JULIA DONALDSON

    ?BBC2, 7.30pm

    ?BURNT BITS

    Cookery disasters that were presented live on TV.

    ?ITV, 8pm

    ?SNACKMASTERS: QUALITY STREET FESTIVE SPECIAL

    ?Channel 4, 8pm

    ?SHUTTER ISLAND (2010)?

    A good film with a twist that you will not be expecting as the story continues. A US marshal and his partner investigate how a patient from a mental hospital has disappeared, despite being on a remote island.

    ?Sky Cinema Thriller, 8pm

    ?JACK & THE BEANSTALK: AFTER EVER AFTER

    A story of what happened after Jack defeated the giant.

    ?Sky One, 8pm

    ?TUKON’S WILD GRIZZLIES

    ?Smithsonian Channel, 8pm

    ?MAMMA MIA! (2008)

    Musical inspired by Abba songs.

    ?ITV Be, 8pm

    ?GHOSTS

    A new face appears in the haunted house.

    ?BBC1, 8.30pm

    ?BATTLESHIP (2012)?

    When alien invaders threaten, who better than a ‘quick to bite’ US Navy Lieutenant to fight them off? What could possibly go wrong?

    ?ITV4, 9pm

    ?MOTHERLAND CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?BBC2, 9pm

    ?SIEMPRE, LUIS

    The life of this Puerto Rican migrant and activist as he moves to the US and begins a decades-long fight for Latino communities.

    ?Sky Documentaries, 9pm

    ?HOMEFRONT (2013)

    (?on Sky only)

    A man sets out to rescue his daughter and his new town from a drug-dealing sociopath.

    ?Paramount Network, 9pm

    ?JENNIFER SAUNDERS’ MEMORY LANE

    ?ITV, 9pm

    ?↔️A WARTIME CHRISTMAS

    Christmas celebrations in the 1940s.

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?FIRST DATES AT CHRISTMAS

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ?QI: REJOICE! A CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?BBC2, 9.30pm

    ??CLEMENCY (2019)?

    A death row prison warden becomes overwhelmed with stress as he oversees executions at the prison where he works.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 9.45pm

    ?THE MOMENTS THAT MADE RICHARD WILSON

    A celebration of the life of the ‘One Foot in the Grave’ actor. This is followed by the beginning of series 4 of the comedy at 10.30pm.

    ?BBC Scotland, 10pm

    ?KING GARY CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?BBC1, 10pm

    ?THE RUSSELL HOWARD HOUR

    ?Sky One, 10pm

    ?PHANTOM THREAD (2017)?

    This is a good period drama, but it won’t appeal to everyone. A dressmaker falls for a waitress.

    ?BBC2, 10pm

    ?CALENDAR GIRLS (2003)?

    ?Channel 5, 10pm

    ?DADDY’S HOME 2 (2017)?

    ?Channel 4, 10pm

    ?KNOCKED UP (2007)?

    An unemployed layabout gets a TV reporter pregnant.

    ?ITV, 10.45pm

    ?THE FLORIDA PROJECT (2017)?

    A young girl from an impoverished family wanders around the grounds of the motel where she is living, meeting her friends and looking for adventure.

    ?Film4, 1.45am

    ?STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON (2015)?

    Biopic of the hip-hop group NWA.

    ?Channel 5, 3.05am

    ———————-

    ?THURSDAY - CHRISTMAS EVE

    24 December

    ———————-

    ??KUNG FU PANDA (2008)(PG)

    ?BBC1, 9am

    ??ANNIE (2014)(PG)

    ?Channel 5, 10.30am

    ??KUNG FU PANDA 3 (2016) (PG)

    ?BBC1, 10.45am

    ??MOANA (2016)(PG)

    ?BBC1, 12.35pm

    ??CATS AND DOGS (2001)(PG)

    ?5STAR, 1.05pm

    TOP PICK

    ?GANGS OF LONDON?

    A second chance to see this brilliant gritty drama series for those of us who want a break from all the Christmas nonsense. Bah , humbug!

    ?Sky Atlantic, 2pm

    ??CARS 3 (2017)(U)

    ?BBC1, 2.15pm

    ?KATHERINE JENKINS: CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR FROM THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL

    ?ITV, 2.15pm

    ??THE GRINCH (2018)(U)

    ?ITV2, 4.05pm

    ??PADDINGTON 2 (2017)(PG)

    ?BBC1, 4.15pm

    ?TIPPING POINT: LUCKY STARS CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?ITV, 4.40pm

    ?CELEBRITY CATCHPHRASE CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?ITV, 5.45pm

    ??WORZEL GUMMIDGE: SAUCY NANCY

    ?BBC1, 5.55pm

    ??HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON (2010)(PG)

    ?E4, 6pm

    ??ELF (2003)(PG)

    ?Sky One, 6.15pm

    ?A BABY REINDEER’S FIRST CHRISTMAS

    ?Channel 4, 6.40pm

    ?REMARKABLE PLACES TO EAT AT CHRISTMAS

    ?BBC2, 6.45pm

    ??THE MAN WHO INVENTED CHRISTMAS (2017)(PG)

    ?More4, 6.55pm

    ?THE WALL VERSUS CELEBRITIES

    ?BBC1, 6.55pm

    ?CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM

    ?Channel 5, 7.30pm

    ?THE GREAT CHRISTMAS BAKE OFF

    ?Channel 4, 7.40pm

    ?WOULD I LIE TO YOU? AT CHRISTMAS

    ?BBC1, 7.45pm

    ?THE SNOWMAN

    ?E4, 7.55pm

    ??LIKE A BOSS (2020)

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 8pm

    ?THE SNOWMAN AND THE SNOWDOG

    ?E4, 8.30pm

    ?SUSAN CALMAN’S SOCIALLY DISTANT CHRISTMAS

    ?BBC Scotland, 8.30pm

    ?CINDERELLA: A COMIC RELIEF PANTOMIME FOR CHRISTMAS

    ?BBC2, 8.15pm

    ?ROALD & BEATRIX: THE TAIL OF THE CURIOUS MOUSE

    Comedy drama of the time that six-year-old Roald Dahl met Beatrix Potter.

    ?Sky One, 8.15pm

    ?ALAN CARR’S EPIC GAMESHOW: CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?ITV, 8.15pm

    ??THE DAY AFTER TOMORROW (2004)?

    A global super-storm sets off a new ice age. A climate expert goes in search of his son in New York.

    ?Sony Movies, 9pm

    ?ONE NIGHT IN HAMLEY’S

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ?STEP BROTHERS

    Comedy. When their parents get married , two very adult stepbrothers are not best pleased when they find they have to share a room.

    ?W, 9pm

    ?PARKER (2013)

    (?on Sky only)

    ?Paramount Network, 9pm

    ?↔️AUSSIE GOLD HUNTERS

    ?Quest, 9pm

    ?BIRDS OF A FEATHER

    ?ITV, 9.15pm

    ?SCOT SQUAD: THE CHIEF’S FESTIVE MESSAGE

    ?BBC Scotland, 9.30pm

    ?MIRANDA’S GANES WITH SHOWBIZ NAMES

    ?BBC1, 9.45pm

    ?THE JONATHAN ROSS CHRISTMAS SHOW

    ?ITV, 10pm

    ?ROLE MODELS (2008)

    ?ITV4, 10pm

    ?CLIFF RICHARD: THE CHRISTMAS KING

    ?Channel 5, 10pm

    ?GHOST STORIES (2017)

    ?BBC2, 12.15am

    ?I GIVE IT A YEAR (2013)

    ?BBC1, 12.45am

  • —————————

    ?FRIDAY - CHRISTMAS DAY

    25 December

    —————————

    ??CHRISTMAS HITS FOR KIDS

    ?Channel 5, 8.15am

    ??TWO BY TWO (2015)(U)

    ?Channel 4, 7.20am

    ??GARFIELD 2: A TALE OF TWO KITTIES

    ?Channel 4, 9am

    ?BRITAIN’S FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS SONGS

    ?Channel 5, 9.05am

    ?TOP OF THE POPS CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?BBC1, 11.55am

    ??PETER PAN (2003)(PG)

    ?ITV2, 1.05pm

    ???EARLY MAN (2018)(PG)

    ?BBC1, 1.15pm

    ???TROLLS WORLD TOUR (2020)(U)

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 11.35am

    ?AINSLEY’S FESTIVE FOOD WE LOVE

    ?ITV, 2pm

    ??ZOG AND THE FLYING DOCTORS

    ?BBC1, 2.35pm

    ?THE QUEEN

    Christmas message.

    ?BBC1, 3pm

    ?ITV, 3pm

    ?Sky One, 3pm

    ??COCO (2017)(PG)

    ?BBC1, 3.10pm

    ?THE ALTERNATIVE CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

    ?Channel 4, 3.25pm

    ?TENABLE CHRISTMAS CRACKER

    ?ITV, 3.40pm

    ??CHICKEN RUN (2000)(U)

    ?ITV2, 3.50pm

    ?STRICTLY COME DANCING: THE CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN

    ?BBC1, 4.45pm

    ?THE CHASE CELEBRITY CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?ITV, 5pm

    ?JURASSIC WORLD: FALLEN KINGDOM (2018)?

    ?ITV2, 5.35pm

    ??STUART LITTLE 2 (2002)(U)

    ?E4, 5.45pm

    ?MATTHEW BOURNE’S THE RED SHOES

    A ballet based on the classic film.

    ?BBC2, 6pm

    ?BRITAIN’S FAVOURITE 80s SONGS

    ?Channel 5, 6.25pm

    ?BLANKETY BLANK CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?BBC1, 7pm

    ??ICE AGE: THE MELTDOWN (2006)(U)

    ?E4, 7.15pm

    ??QUENTIN BLAKE’S CLOWN

    Animation.

    ?Channel 4, 7.40pm

    ?CALL THE MIDWIFE

    ?BBC1, 7.40pm

    ?ROYAL OPERA ALL STAR GALA

    From the Royal Opera House.

    ?BBC4, 7.40pm

    ?BRITAIN’S GOT TALENT CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

    ?ITV, 8pm

    ?SPECTRE (2015)?

    James Bond investigates a criminal genius who is somehow linked to his past.

    ?ITV2, 8pm

    ?CRAWL (2019)?

    In a desperate attempt to save her father who is trapped in a flooded houses woman becomes trapped herself - a situation that is made worse when alligators wash up from a nearby flooded river.

    ?Sky Cinema Sci-Fi/Horror, 8pm

    ?ESCAPE TO THE CHATEAU AT CHRISTMAS

    ?Channel 4, 8.10pm

    ?LOST CITIES OF THE OLD TESTAMENT

    ?National Geographic, 9pm

    ?↔️VICTORIA WOOD: THE SECRET LIST

    This is preceded at 8.20pm by ‘All Day Breakfast’ from her 1992 sketch show.

    ?BBC2, 9.10pm

    ?MARIA BY CALLAS

    The life of Maria Callas derived from her interviews, diaries and accounts from her friends.

    ?BBC4, 9.10pm

    ?GOGGLEBOX 2020

    ?Channel 4, 9.10pm

    ?IT’S CLARKSON ON TV

    An uncompromising review of 2020 TV shows.

    ?ITV, 9.55pm

    ?↔️MRS BROWN’S BOYS CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?BBC1, 10pm

    ?LA LA LAND (2016)?

    Musical about a romance between an actress and a jazz musician.

    ?BBC2, 10.10pm

    ?GEORGE MICHAEL: LAST CHRISTMAS

    The story of the singer and his success, including the time he spent as Wham!

    ?Channel 5, 10.40pm

    ??ENEMY AT THE GATES (2001)?

    The German Army is stopped in its tracks at Stalingrad during World War II but the Russian Army is becoming demoralised.

    ?Sony Movies, 10.45pm

    ?FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS (2016)?

    Based on a true story of a wannabe opera singer with an excruciatingly dreadful voice. Sounds promising...

    ?BBC4, 11.05pm

    ?ON CHRISTMAS NIGHT

    ?BBC1, 11.40pm

    ?PAUL McCARTNEY AT THE CAVERN CLUB

    ?BBC1, 11.45pm

    ?ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS: THE MOVIE (2016)?

    ?BBC1, 1.15am

    ?STEVE JOBS (2015)?

    Biopic.

    ?Channel 5, 3.10am

  • ?TV PICKS

    Week commencing 26/12/2020

    For Virgin Media subscribers who can also access Sky Atlantic through Now TV.

    CODE

    SD: Presented in standard definition on VM.

    UHD: Presented in 4K on VM

    ? - Sounds good

    ? - Might be worth a look

    ? - New to TV

    ↔️ - Series

    ? - Film

    ? - Especially for the kids

    ? - Presented in Standard Definition only

    All programmes are presented in HD on Virgin Media unless otherwise indicated.

    ————————-

    ?SATURDAY - BOXING DAY

    26 December 2020

    —————————

    ??THE LITTLE PENGUIN PORORO’S RACING ADVENTURE (2013)(U)

    ?Channel 4, 6.30am

    ??CAPTURE THE FLAG (2015)(PG)

    ?Channel 4, 7.45am

    ??MADAGASCAR: ESCAPE 2 AFRICA (2008)(PG)

    ?BBC1, 8.55am

    ??ALVIN & THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED (2011)(U)

    ?ITV2, 9.10am

    ??THE STORY OF SM:TV LIVE

    Ant and Dec and Cat Deeley remember the morning show for children.

    ?ITV, 9.25am

    ??PENGUINS OF MADAGASCAR (2024)(U)

    ?BBC1, 10.15am

    ??HORTON WEARS A WHO! (2008)(U)

    ?Channel 4, 12noon

    ??HAPPY FEET (2006)(U)

    ?ITV2, 12noon

    ??BRAVE (2012)(PG)

    ?BBC1, 1.20pm

    ?MAMMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN (2018)(PG)

    Musical sequel to Mamma Mia.

    ?ITV2, 2.10pm

    ??CINDERELLA (2014)(U)

    Stars Lily James.

    ?BBC2, 2.50pm

    ??DESPICABLE ME 3 (2017)(U)

    ?ITV2, 4.30pm

    ?SHREK THE THIRD (2007)(U)

    ?Channel 4, 5pm

    ?IN FOR A CHRISTMAS PENNY

    ?ITV, 5.15pm

    ?THE CHASE CELEBRITY SHOW

    ?ITV, 6pm

    ??CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY (2005)(PG)

    ?ITV2, 6.15pm

    ?THE GUERNSEY LITERARY AND POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY?

    In 1946, a writer based in London corresponds with Guernsey residents and feels compelled to visit the island to gain some understanding of life for them under the occupation during World War II.

    ?BBC2, 6.40pm

    ?HIDDEN FIGURES (2016)?

    Fact-based drama about a small group of African-American mathematicians who battle to overcome prejudicial attitudes at NASA in the 1960s.

    ?Channel 4, 6.40pm

    ??PETER RABBIT (2018)(PG)

    ?E4, 6.40pm

    ?UNKNOWN (2011)?

    (?on Sky only)

    A doctor awakes from a coma to find that someone has stolen his identity.

    ?Paramount Network, 6.40pm

    ?THE REPAIR SHOP AT CHRISTMAS

    ?BBC1, 6.45pm

    ?↔️WORLD’S STRONGEST MAN

    ?Channel 5, 6.45pm

    ?↔️THE MASKED SINGER

    ?ITV, 7pm

    ?ROYAL BALLET ALL-STAR GALA

    Ballet favourites.

    ?BBC4, 7pm

    ?THE GREAT CELEBRITY SEWING BEE: CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?BBC1, 7.45pm

    ?THE SECOND BEST MARIGOLD HOTEL (2015) (PG)?

    Light hearted, gentle comedy about the owner of a retirement home and it’s residents.

    ?More4, 8pm

    ??CATS (2019)

    This is listed as it is new, but it’s not very good by all accounts. The cats have to decide who will ascend to the Heaviside Layer each year.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 8pm

    ?FAMILY FORTUNES: CELEBRITY CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?ITV, 8.30pm

    ?TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON (2011)?

    The resurrection of an ancient transformer appears to turn the tide against the Autobots in their long-standing war with the evil Decepticons.

    ?E4, 8.30pm

    ?FAST & FURIOUS 8 (2017)

    ?ITV2, 8.30pm

    ?THE DA VINCI CODE (2006)?

    A professor and a cryptographer find clues that reveal the true nature of the Holy Grail.

    ?W, 9pm

    ??THE MATRIX RELOADED (2003)?

    Sequel to ‘The Matrix’.

    ?TCM Movies, 9pm

    ?BIG FAT QUIZ OF THE YEAR 2020

    ?Channel 4, 9.05pm

    TOP PICK

    ?DUNKIRK (2017) ?

    Allied soldiers being pushed back by the Nazis in World War II await evacuation from Dunkirk as they become sitting ducks.

    ?BBC1, 9.05pm

    ?↔️WHO WANTS TO BE A MILLIONAIRE? CELEBRITY SPECIAL

    ?ITV, 9.30pm

    ?THE HOLIDAY (2006)?

    Iris agrees to swap homes with an equally unhappy in love Californian Amanda for a holiday.

    ?ITV, 10.45pm

    ?SUITE FRANCAISE (2014)?

    Her husband away at war, a lonely Frenchwoman begins a tentative romance with the refined German soldier who has taken up residence in her mother-in-law’s house.

    ?BBC4, 10.50pm

    ?↔️?BRK: CHASING A SERIAL KILLER

    Quest Red, 11pm

    ?SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN (2012)?

    In a fairy tale twist, the Huntsman ordered to take Snow White into the woods to be killed winds up being her protector and mentor in a quest to vanquish the Evil Queen.

    ?Channel 4, 12.05am

    ?MAN UP (2015)?

    When Nancy runs into Jack who mistakes her for his blind date, Nancy decides to go along with it and starts the most chaotic journey of her life.

    ?BBC1, 12.15am

    ?THE INVISIBLE WOMAN (2013)?

    A woman recollects when she met a famous author and secretly became his mistress and muse.

    ?BBC2, 12.40am

    ??THE ANGRY BIRDS MOVIE (2016)(U)

    A strange time to put on this children’s film, but then we are recording the programmes, aren’t we?

    ?Channel 5, 4.25am

    ———————-

    ?SUNDAY

    27 December

    ———————

    ??THE SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS MOVIE (2004)(U)

    ?Channel 4, 6.55am

    ??SHAUN THE SHEEP MOVIE (2015)(U)

    ?BBC1, 10.20am

    ??WALLACE & GROMIT: THE CURSE OF THE WERE-RABBIT (2005)(U)

    ?BBC1, 11.40am

    ?SHARK TALE (2004)(U)

    ?ITV2, 12.20pm

    ??MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (2013)(U)

    ?BBC1, 1.55pm

    ?BRITAIN’S FAVOURITE NOVEL

    ?Channel 5, 2.10pm

    ??DESPICABLE ME (2010)(U)

    ?ITV, 2.35pm

    ??NANNY McPHEE (2004)(U)

    ?ITV2, 3.50pm

    ??SHREK FOREVER AFTER (2010)(U)

    ?Channel 4, 4.10pm

    ?PRIDE & PREJUDICE (2015)?

    Jane Austin’s novel is the basis for this historical drama.

    ?Channel 5, 4.10pm

    ?JURASSIC WORLD (2015)?

    A new species of dinosaur escapes and panics the tourists.

    ?ITV, 4.40pm

    ??CHICKEN RUN (2000)(U)

    ?ITV2, 5.55pm

    ?EDDIE THE EAGLE (2016)

    Biopic of ski jumper Eddie Edwards.

    ?Channel 4, 6pm

    ?↔️PHOTO ARK: GO BIG OR GO HOME

    ?National Geographic Wild, 6pm

    ??THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN (2011)(PG)

    ?E4, 6.50pm

    ?THE CHASE: THE BLOOPERS

    ?ITV, 7pm

    ?CELINE DION: TAKING CHANCES WORLD TOUR

    ?Sky Arts, 7pm

    ??INSIDE THE FACTORY

    ?BBC2, 8pm

    ?THE SUPERVET AT CHRISTMAS

    ?Channel 4, 8pm

    ?↔️BLACK NARCISSUS?

    Sister Clodagh has led a group of nuns to set up a branch of the order in the Himalayas, but contrary to her vows of chastity, she falls for a straight talking land agent who awakens feelings that other land agents cannot reach...

    ?BBC1, 9pm

    ?↔️LAST WOMAN ON EARTH

    Sara Pascoe meets people who are deploying skills that may be lost in the future. If you like Sara, watch her perform a live show on this channel at 11.20pm.

    ?BBC2, 9pm

    ?↔️BACK TO THE 80s WITH LENNY HENRY

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ?WE LOVE ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES

    Celebrity fans explain what they love the sitcom.

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?BILLY ELLIOT (2000)?

    The story of an 11-year-old boy with a passion for ballet.

    ?BBC4, 9pm

    ?KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE (2015)?

    A teenager gets the opportunity to work for a spy organisation.

    ?Film4, 9pm

    ??THE MATRIX REVOLUTION (2003)?

    The last in the Matrix trilogy.

    ?TCM Movies, 9pm

    ??DOWNHILL (2020)?

    A nerve-wracking brush with an avalanche exposes the strains in a couple’s marriage.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 9.45pm

    ?CELEBRITY JUICE: THE BORIS BRIEFING

    ?ITV2, 10pm

    ?WHEN CLASSIC TV GOES HORRIBLY WRONG

    ?Channel 5, 10.30pm

    ?SEVEN DAYS

    The news of 2020 explained.

    ?BBC Scotland, 10.55pm

    ?FINAL DESTINATION (2000)?

    A group of teenagers believe they have cheated death, but then an unknown force seems intent on killing them off one by one.

    ?ITV2, 2.50am

    ————————-

    ?MONDAY-BANK HOLIDAY

    28 December

    ————————-

    ?DEEP FAKES: CAN YOU TRUST YOUR EYES?

    Looking at fake videos.

    ?Channel 4, 6.05pm

    ?RICHARD OSMAN’S CHRISTMAS HOUSE OF GAMES NIGHT

    ?BBC1, 7pm

    ??MINIONS (2015)(U)

    ?ITV2, 7.10pm

    ?MEERCAT: A DYNASTIES SPECIAL ?

    David Attenborough narrates.

    ?BBC1, 7.30pm

    ?↔️ROYAL INSTITUTION CHRISTMAS LECTURES 2020

    This series features three lectures on the wonders of the Earth.

    ?BBC4, 8pm

    ?BRITAIN’S MOST EXPENSIVE HOUSES

    ?Channel 4, 8pm

    ?THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL (2011)?

    Judy Debch, Bill Nighy and Maggie Smith star in this gentle comedy about pensioners who move to India to live in a retirement home.

    ?Channel 5, 8pm

    ?↔️DIESEL BROTHERS

    Monster Jam drivers attempt extreme world records.

    ?Discovery, 8pm

    ?BRADLEY WALSH & SON: BREAKING DAD - THE UNSEEN SHOW

    Bradley and his son Barney and their travels around the US.

    ?ITV, 8.30pm

    COUNTRY MUSIC

    Covering the 1980s and 1990s.

    ?PBS America, 8.35pm

    ?THE PLEDGE (2000)?

    A detective is determined to bring a child killer to justice.

    ?Sky Cinema Thriller, 9pm

    ?ALLIED?

    When a World War II operative and a resistance fighter reunite in London, a devastating secret tests their love and loyalty to each other.

    ?Film4, 9pm

    ?NATIONAL THEATRE: JANE EYRE

    ?Sky Arts, 9pm

    ?TWO DOORS DOWN CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

    ?BBC2, 9pm

    ?THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF JERSEY

    ?ITV Be, 9pm

    ?BILLY CONNELLY: IT’S BEEN A PLEASURE

    ?ITV, 9.30pm

    ??CENTIGRADE (2020)

    This is a disappointing and implausible drama that takes place within a car which is stranded by snow in Norway. I wouldn’t waste your time on this, quite honestly.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 10pm

    ??CHRISTMAS ON CHESTNUT STREET (2006)

    A warehouse manager plans a competition for the best Christmas lightingdisplay.

    ?Sony Christmas, 10pm

    ?SECRETS OF THE APOLLO

    Comedians talk about performing at the Apollo.

    ?BBC2, 10.20pm

    ?LIAM GALLAGHER: AS IT WAS

    ?BBC2, 11.20pm

    ?CHRISTMAS STORIES

    ?BBC Scotland, 11.20pm

    ?MANDY (2018)?

    A couple living in a secluded forest are tormented by a cult.

    ?Film4, 11.25pm

    ?MARIANNE & LEONARD: WORDS OF LOVE

    The story of a love affair between Leonard Cohen and his Norwegian muse, Marianne Ihlen.

    ?BBC4, 11.50pm

  • ?TUESDAY

    29 December

    ??JURASSIC PARK III (2001)(PG)

    ITV2, 5pm

    ?PENGUINS: MEET THE FAMILY

    ?BBC1, 6.30pm

    ?MISS CONGENIALITY (2000)?

    A terrorist plans to strike at the Miss United States beauty contest.

    ?ITV2, 6.45pm

    ?CELEBRITY SNOOP DOGS AT CHRISTMAS

    ?Channel 4, 7pm


    ?CELEBRITY SNOOP DOGS AT CHRISTMAS

    ?Channel 4, 7pm

    ?WONDER WOMAN (2017)?

    A Princess discovers her full powers and true destiny after leaving home to join the fight to end all wars.

    ?ITV, 7.30pm

    ?THE GREAT FOOD GUYS HOGMANAY SPECIAL

    ?BBC Scotland, 7.30pm

    ?↔️MASTERCHEF THE PROFESSIONALS: A FESTIVE KNOCKOUT

    ?BBC1, 8pm

    ?TV’s BIGGEST GAME SHOWS: 50 YEARS OF FUN

    ?Channel 5, 8pm

    ?↔️ONLY CONNECT SPECIALS: CHRISTMAS

    ?BBC2, 8pm

    ?LITTLE WOMEN (2019)?

    The classic story of four young independently minded sisters in the 19th century.

    ?Sky Cinema Hits, 9pm

    ?UNDERWATER (2019)?

    Tense thriller about a team of scientists beneath the ocean whose base on the sea floor is demolished by a tremor, putting all their lives in danger.

    ?Sky Cinema Sci-fi/Horror, 9pm

    ??THE DEVIL’S GRAVEYARDS

    A scientist makes an alarming discovery of ‘vile vortices’ which influence disturbing events around the planet.

    ?Sky History, 9pm

    ?FAST & FURIOUS 7 (2015)?

    The crew return to the US and hope to live the normal life again, but a man is seeking revenge for the death of his brother.

    ?ITV2, 9pm

    ?JASON BOURNE (2016)?

    A former government operative breaks cover to discover more information about his father in a deadly mission of life or death.

    ?E4, 9pm

    ?↔️CELEBRITY: A 21st CENTURY STORY

    ?BBC2, 9pm

    ?JAMIE AND JIMMY’S FESTIVE FEAST

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ?BOB MONKHOUSE: MASTER OF LAUGHTER

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?YVONNE ORJI: MOMMA I MADE IT!

    Stand-up comedy.

    ?Sky Comedy, 9pm

    ?THE WIZ LIVE

    ?Sky Arts, 9pm

    ?HELLBOY II: THE GOLDEN ARMY (2008) ?

    Paranormal investigator Hellboy returns to prevent an ancient prince from the underworld from unleashing an army of deadly mechanical monsters.

    ?ITV4, 9pm

    ??THE IRON MASK (2019)

    Mediocre Arnie film.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 9.45pm

    ?BREAKING THE YEAR

    The significant events of the year so far.

    ?BBC Scotland, 10pm

    ?RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARCHIVE: HOGMANAY SPECIAL

    ?BBC Scotland, 10.30pm

    ?ROLE MODELS (2008)

    Two men get into a fight and choose community service over a jail term.

    ?ITV4, 11.20pm

    ?METALLICA AT GLASTONBURY 2014

    ?BBC4, 11.45pm

    ?CHEF (2014)?

    A man decides to give up his day job to run a food truck.

    ?Film4, 11.45pm

    ?MR & MRS SMITH (2004)?

    A married couple are surprised to learn they are both assassins hired by competing agencies to kill each other.

    ?Channel 4, 12 m’t

    ?WILD CARD (2015)

    (? on Sky only)

    A bodyguard goes after the sadistic thug who beat his friend, only to find that he is the son of a powerful mob boss.

    ?Paramount Network, 12.35am

    ?HAPPY NEW YEAR, COLUN BURSTEAD

    Colin hires a lavish country manor for his extended family to celebrate New Year. But his position of power in the family is under serious threat from the arrival of his estranged brother David.

    ?BBC2, 1am

    ?WEDNESDAY

    30 December

    ??GNOMEO & JULIET (2011)(U)

    ?Comedy Central, 12 noon

    ??HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON 2 (2014)(PG)

    ?BBC1, 3.35pm

    ??NANNY McPHEE & THE BIG BANG (2010)(U)

    ?ITV2, 4.10pm

    ?THE LEGEND OF TARZAN (2016)

    ?ITV2, 6.20pm

    ?A YEAR AT JIMMY’S FARM

    ?Channel 4, 7pm

    ?FIDDLER: A MIRACLE OF MIRACLES

    ?Sky Arts, 7pm

    ??HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON (2010)(PG)

    ?E4, 7.30pm

    ?CLYDESDALE - SAVING THE GREATEST HORSE

    ?BBC Scotland, 7.30pm

    ?↔️LOVE IT OR LIST IT

    Kirstie Allsop and Phil Spencer in a new series about house properties.

    ?Channel 4, 8pm

    STEPHEN FRY’S 21st CENTURY FIRSTS

    Stephen explores the amazing technological changes that have taken place over the last 20 years.

    ?ITV, 8.30pm

    ?FAST AND FURIOUS 8 (2017)?

    A further adventure with thrills a-plenty.

    ?ITV2, 8.30pm

    ?TOM ALLEN GOES TO TOWN

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ?NOT GOING OUT

    ?BBC1, 9pm

    ?WHITMER THOMAS: THE GOLDEN ONE

    Stand-up comedy and songs.

    ?Sky Comedy, 9pm

    ?PANDEMONIUM

    A family holidays in Margate in this one-off comedy.

    ?BBC1, 9.45pm

    ?THE NINE LIVES OF OZZY OSBOURNE

    Telling the interesting story of Ozzy’s life.

    ?BBC2, 10pm

    ??REPRESSION (2020)?

    A 10-year-old patient claims to be able to see and control the future of his psychiatrist.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 10pm

    ?THE MOMENTS THAT MADE JACK DOCHERTY

    ?BBC Scotland, 10pm

    ?UNCLE VANYA

    A production of Chekhov’s play, recorded earlier this year.

    ?BBC4, 10pm

    ?ROCK ON, TOMMY: THE BOBBY BALL STORY

    ?ITV, 10.15pm

    ?WHO KILLED JEFFREY EPSTEIN?

    ?Quest Red, 11pm

    ——————

    ?THURSDAY - NEW YEAR’S EVE

    ——————

    ??HOME (2014)(U)

    ?BBC1, 9am

    ??MONSTERS vs ALIENS (2009) (PG)

    ?BBC1, 10.25am

    ??CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY (2005)(PG)

    ?ITV, 11am

    GRANDPA’S GREAT ESCAPE

    ?BBC1, 11.50am

    DAVID ATTENBOROUGH

    A full afternoon of programmes narrated by the nature man himself, starting withDavid Attenborough’s Global Adventure.

    ?Sky Nature, 1pm

    ??BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (2017)(PG)

    ?BBC1, 2.20pm

    ?TOP OF THE POPS NEW YEAR SPECIAL

    The biggest hits of 2020

    ?BBC1, 4.20pm

    ??PADDINGTON (2014)(PG)

    ?Channel 4, 5.15pm

    ?KING KONG (2005)?

    ?ITV2, 5.25pm

    ?89

    Football documentary.

    ?Sky Documentaries, 5.30pm

    ?THE HIT LIST CELEBRITY SPECIAL

    ?BBC1, 5.50pm

    THE KILLERS LIVE AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL

    This is followed by an evening of music on Sky One, with Ed Sheehan at 8pm; Coldplay at 9.20pm; Queen at 10.40pm and Freddie Mercury, Adam Lambert and Freddie Mercury programmes after the live fireworks show, starting at 12.15am.

    ?Sky One, 6.15pm

    ??NEWS AT 5 AND A HALF

    A children’s eye view of the year’s biggest stories.

    ?ITV, 7pm

    ?BRITAIN’S BEST SELLING TOYS

    ?Channel 4, 7pm

    ??ICE AGE 2: THE MELTDOWN (2006)(U)

    ?E4, 7.15pm

    ?THE GREAT BRITISH SEWING BEE: CELEBRITY NEW YEAR SPECIAL

    ?BBC1, 8pm

    ?THE BIG NEW YEAR’S IN

    ?BBC1, 9pm

    ?THE LAST LEG OF THE YEAR

    A satirical extravaganza to say good riddance to 2020.

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ?HOT FUZZ (2007)?

    ?ITV2, 9pm

    ?SKYFALL (2012)?

    James Bond resurrects when MI6 is subject of an attack.

    ?ITV, 9pm

    ??CLOSER (2004)?

    Romantic drama.

    ?Sony Movies, 9pm

    ?BEFORE THEY WERE FAMOUS 2020

    ?BBC2, 10pm

    ??FOXTROT SIX

    Following a military coup in Indonesia, a group of soldiers are assigned on a dangerous mission.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 10pm

    ?JOOLS’ ANNUAL HOOTENANNY

    ?BBC2, 11.15pm

    ?HOGMANAY 2020

    Susan Calman and guests.

    ?BBC Scotland, 11.30pm

    ❗LIVE

    ALICIA KEYS ROCKS NEW YEAR’S EVE

    ?BBC1, 11.30pm and 12.10am

    ❗LIVE ❗

    HAPPY NEW YEAR LIVE!

    ?BBC1, 12m’t


    ❗LIVE ❗

    NEW YEAR FIREWORKS LIVE!

    ?Sky One, 12m’t

    ?MADE IN DAGENHAM (2010)?

    In 1968, two years prior to the Equal Pay Act, plucky Rita decides to take a stand against the low pay of female workers at the plant.

    ?BBC1, 2.10am

    ?FRIDAY - NEW YEAR’S DAY

    A1 January 2021

    ??CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS (2017)(U)

    ?BBC1, 9am

    ??THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SPONGE OUT OF WATER

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ??SCARED SHREKLESS

    ?BBC1, 10.20am

    ??THE BOSS BABY (2017)(U)

    ?BBC1, 10.40am

    ?STARDUST (2007)(PG)?

    ?Channel 4, 3.05pm

    ??FOUR KIDS AND IT (2020)

    A magical creature found on a beach by a group of children has the power to grant wishes.

    ?Sky One, 3.35pm

    ?↔️LINGO

    Game show.

    ?ITV, 4.35pm

    ?THE GREATEST SHOWMAN (2017)?

    P T Barnum indulges his limitless imagination to create the Barnum and Bailey circus in the 1809s in this brilliant musical extravaganza.

    ?Channel 4, 5.30pm

    ?TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON (2011)?

    ?E4, 6pm

    ?MR HOLMES (2015)?

    An elderly Sherlock looks into an unsolved case of his with the assistance of his housekeeper’s son.

    ?BBC2, 6.20pm

    ??DOCTOR WHO

    The doctor is held in a high-security alien prison with no hope of escape. Unsuitable for younger or nervous children.

    ?BBC1, 6.45pm

    ?NEW YEAR’S DAY CONCERT FROM VIENNA 2021

    ?BBC4, 7pm

    ?TOMMY’S HONOUR (2016)?

    The father and son pioneers of professional golf rely on skill, business acumen and working-class street smarts to make Tommy Morris one of the world’s first sports superstars and founder of the modern game of golf.

    ?BBC Scotland, 7pm

    ?CHITTY FLIES AGAIN WITH DAVID WALLIAMS

    ?Channel 4, 7.30pm

    ?BAD BOYS FOR LIFE (2020)?

    A detective is targeted for assassination for revenge.

    ?Sky Cinema Premiere, 8pm

    TOP PICK

    ?↔️THE SERPENT?

    Based on real events, this is a story about a fraudster and killer whose capture proved to be remarkably difficult.

    ?BBC1, 9pm

    ?CRUCIFIXION

    Documentary about the cruel punishment of crucifixion.

    ?Sky History, 9pm

    ?WHITNEY AT THE BBC

    ?BBC4, 9pm

    ?DANCING ON THIN ICE

    Torvill and Dean skate on natural ice in Alaska.

    ?ITV, 9pm

    ?TASKMASTER’S NEW YEAR TREAT

    ?Channel 4, 9pm

    ?MICHAEL McINTYRE: IN HIS OWN WORDS

    ?Channel 5, 9pm

    ?THE GREAT BUSTER

    Documentary on Buster Keaton.

    ?Sky Arts, 9pm

    ??BRIDGET JONES’ BABY (2016)

    ?5STAR, 9pm

    ?MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS (2017)?

    Poirot investigates the murder of a businessman on a train.

    ?Film4. 9pm

    ?WHITNEY ‘CAN I BE ME’ (2017)?

    Footage and recordings helping to tell the story of Whitney Houston’s life.

    ?BBC4, 9.30pm

    ?PRISONERS (2013)?

    When police have to release their only suspect, a desperate man takes the law into his own hands after his young daughter and her friend disappear.

    ?Sky Witness, 10pm

    ?MRS BROWN’S BOYS NEW YEAR SPECIAL

    ?BBC1, 10pm

    ?FRANKIE BOYLE’S NEW WORLD ORDER

    ?BBC2, 10pm

    ?JOOLS’ ANNUAL HOOTENANNY BEST BITS EVER

    ?BBC2, 10.45pm

    ?PITCH PERFECT (2012)?

    When a new student joins her college’s female a Capella group, she takes the women out of their comfort zone.

    ?ITV, 10.45pm

    ??RESIDENT EVIL: RETRIBUTION?

    ?Horror, 10.50pm

    ?GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY (2014)?

    ?BBC1, 10.55pm

    LIONEL RICHIE AT THE BBC

    ?BBC4, 12.10am

    ?DOWNTON ABBEY (2019)?

    Drama based on the popular series. The Crawley’s prepare for a royal visit.

    ?Sky Cinema Five Star ( previously Disney), 12.35am

    ?UNDER THE SKIN (2013)?

    An alien preys on people she finds walking along the streets of Glasgow.

    ?Film4, 1.25am

  • Thanks OB, especially for posting all that on this day, of all days.

    A lot of varied stuff, but Lionel Ritchie caught my eye at the end of that last list.

    Have a great day.:)

    I hope you had a good day, too, Horizon.

    I have become a little concerned that maybe the lists are too unwieldy and perhaps I should concentrate on what I consider to be the best programmes of the week. The length of the existing lists may put a lot of people off using them.

    What do you think? I could concentrate on just the good dramas, the good new films and good new documentaries.

  • OK, I hope I have made a point here! There is plenty of choice at present, and this thread has tried to demonstrate that. However, the listings are far too long because I have tried to highlight programmes that appeal to most tastes, and it is probably putting people off reading through them.

    Therefore, I am closing this thread, and rather than trying to cater to everybody, I think it would be better if I concentrated on those programmes I myself would be happy to watch!

    So my new thread is ‘OLD BOY’s TV Choice’ and I hope that this will be much more useful for the majority of readers of this forum! It is certainly a shorter list!

    Let me know what you think!

  • A couple of Channel 4 Dispatches episode well worth watching on catch up 'Is Your Online Habit Killing the Planet' this one is major and this topic needs a lot more publicity. Forget electric cars and the rest of it. This one is bigger then planes, trains and automobiles combined. Even the difference between listening to music on 'say' Spotify instead of youtube if you don't watch the visuals so audio only and not waste the bandwith of movies. Your saving energy. And security and privacy aside, don't get me started on data centres and the cloud. I have been on about that one for years and the waste of sending stuff to the likes of cloudflare etc. Another god dam commercialised con.

    Then there is the later episode 'Deep Fakes' which is interesting especially after the alternative queens speech and all the Trump crap over the last few years. We have major problems to work around and the influence that the digital world and reporting has on us and out life's. On a similar topic please take the time to watch the following. You wont regret it as the guy speaks a lot of educated sense.

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