Television viewers this weekend have plenty of cinematic choices, with highly anticipated films airing across various channels, showcasing both contemporary hits and timeless classics. Among the highlighted films is The French Dispatch, directed by the iconic Wes Anderson. This 2021 anthology comedy-drama embodies Anderson’s distinctive style and serves as his love letter to journalism.
Set to air on Film4 at 11:20 PM on Friday, March 14, 2025, The French Dispatch explores the world of the fictional American magazine published in 20th-century France. The narrative centers around the magazine's final edition after the death of its editor, played by Bill Murray, who wishes to leave behind one last issue filled with poignant stories. The film deftly intertwines three main storylines, including one featuring Benicio del Toro as a prisoner turned world-famous artist, Timothée Chalamet as a young revolutionary, and Stephen Park involved in a kidnapping plot.
The film's whimsical tone and its Russian nesting doll-esque storytelling might not appeal to those who are not already fans of Anderson's unique filmmaking approach. Nevertheless, for dedicated followers of the director, there is much to appreciate within this comedy-drama—a melancholy ode to journalism and its golden age.
Other films to catch on the same day include Jack Reacher, airing at 9 PM on Film4, where Tom Cruise returns as the titular nomadic vigilante. Audiences can also opt for Terminator Genisys on E4 at 9 PM, one of the lesser sequels of the beloved sci-fi franchise, or tune in to The Sweeney on Legend at 9 PM, featuring Ray Winstone.
With such diverse offerings, viewers are ensured no lack of options to suit any taste. For those seeking something different, A Hidden Life airs on RTÉ2 at 10:15 PM, showcasing Terrence Malick’s acclaimed historical drama about Franz Jägerstätter's refusal to fight for the Nazis during World War II, starring August Diehl.
The following day offers even more cinematic choices, highlighted by Bridesmaids, airing at 9 PM on ITV2, featuring comedy stars Kristen Wiig and Rose Byrne. Meanwhile, Channel 4 will present Ticket to Paradise at 9 PM, starring George Clooney and Julia Roberts, where the estranged couple’s endeavors to sabotage their daughter’s wedding plans inadvertently lead to comedic chaos.
Sunday, March 16, continues the trend of enriching television with classics such as The French Connection, scheduled for 10 PM on BBC Two. This Oscar-winning crime drama stars Gene Hackman as Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle, who becomes obsessed with dismantling a drug-smuggling operation between Marseille and the U.S. Paired with the psychological thriller The Conversation, airing at 11:40 PM, which stars Hackman as well, the lineup offers gripping narratives for those captivated by detective stories.
On Monday, March 17, viewers can check out The Northman, which offers thrilling Viking action, highlighting Alexander Skarsgård and Nicole Kidman’s engaging performances at 9 PM on Film4. Then, on March 18, An Affair to Remember airs at 4:40 PM, bringing emotional depth as Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr portray star-crossed lovers. Viewers eager for psychological intensity will want to catch Eyes of Laura Mars at 10:25 PM on Talking Pictures TV.
Wednesday, March 19 promises cinematic depth with films like French Connection II, gripping viewers with its thrilling chase sequences and compelling narrative surrounding cops and drug dealers at 9 PM on Great Movies.
The offerings continue with films focusing on human adventure, romance, and drama leading up to the weekend. Classic features including Yesterday’s Enemy on March 20 and Apocalypse Now, which airs on March 21, offer viewers gripping historical and emotional storylines, maintaining cinema's rich narrative heritage.
Viewers truly have options from both current favorites and iconic classics, ensuring there is something for everyone this weekend. Whether one seeks deep emotional stories or lighthearted comedies, choosing from this weekend's lineup promises satisfying movie nights.