On December 26, 2024, audiences had the chance to catch three intriguing films airing on various television networks just after the Christmas holiday.
At 01:00 AM, RTL presented "Renegades - Mission of Honor," directed by Steven Quale. This action-packed thriller follows an elite team of Navy SEALs tasked with capturing a war criminal from the former Yugoslavia. Although they successfully complete their mission, their actions cause significant property damage, leading to their suspension. Faced with their next steps, the soldiers become intrigued by rumors of a Nazi treasure lost since World War II. RTL highlighted the film, noting, "Die Soldaten suchen sich eine Aufgabe und folgen den Gerüchten über einen Nazischatz, der seit dem Zweiten Weltkrieg verschollen ist" (The soldiers search for purpose and follow rumors about a Nazi treasure lost since World War II). With notable performances from Sullivan Stapleton and J.K. Simmons, the film is sure to capture the interest of action fans.
If viewers missed this film, they could catch it on-demand via RTL-Mediathek, where numerous TV programs are available for streaming following their broadcast, though there will be no traditional TV replay scheduled shortly.
Next up, at 00:25 AM on RTL2, was Joe Johnston's 2010 horror film "Wolfman". The story follows Lawrence, who as a child went to a mental institution after witnessing his mother’s gruesome death. Years later, he returns home only to face a series of mysterious deaths linked to his brother's untimely demise. The film dives deep under the full moon's eerie glow, reflecting the quote from RTL2: "Als Junge landete Lawrence in der Nervenheilanstalt, nachdem seine Mutter auf grausige Weise ums Leben kam" (Lawrence ended up in the mental institution as a boy after his mother died gruesomely). Featuring Benicio del Toro and Anthony Hopkins, this movie blends fantasy and horror, making it highly recommended for genre lovers.
Viewers interested in this chilling film also have access to it online on the RTL2 Mediathek, where they can stream content on demand. Unfortunately, no linear television replays are currently on the agenda.
Finally, at 00:35 AM, Guy Ritchie's "Codename U.N.C.L.E." aired on Sat.1. Set during the Cold War, the film follows CIA agent Napoleon Solo and KGB agent Illya Kuryakin, forced to work together to take down former Nazis attempting to produce nuclear weapons. With the imaginative plot, the network noted, "Diese Mission hat es in sich, denn während des Kalten Krieges stehen sich US-amerikanische und sowjetische Spione normalerweise als Feinde gegenüber" (This mission is remarkable, as during the Cold War, American and Soviet spies typically faced each other as enemies). The film features stars such as Henry Cavill and Armie Hammer, cleverly intertwining action, adventure, and espionage themes.
For viewers who missed the chance to watch "Codename U.N.C.L.E." live, it too is available for streaming post-airing on Sat.1 Mediathek, offering yet another option for those seeking entertainment after the holiday festivities.
While each network's films bring excitement and thrill, fans should make notes to catch them on-demand as repeats are not currently planned. December 26 proved to be another jam-packed night for movie lovers, providing various genres to enjoy from the comfort of home during the cozy winter season.