Free Nelson Mandela: A Deep Dive into the 1980s Anti-Apartheid Struggle
Tonight at 9pm on Channel 4, the second episode of the excellent anti-apartheid documentary series Free Nelson Mandela continues. This installment tracks the turbulent 1980s, a decade marked by escalating tensions and global protests. As Nelson Mandela’s health deteriorates in prison, the South African government begins to realize that allowing him to die in custody could lead to civil war. The episode also features an epic outdoor concert in London showcasing Jerry Dammers’s protest song “Free Nelson Mandela,” a rallying cry for the ages.
Other TV Highlights for Tonight
Cruising to the Ends of the Earth
At 8pm on Channel 4, the seventh instalment of this series looks at “unforgettable voyages” on four cruise ships, including the Diamond Princess, which previously experienced a mass Covid outbreak. This episode follows the ship docking in Kagoshima, home of Japan’s most active volcano, and visits sister ship Discovery Princess in the breathtaking wilds of Alaska.
Inside Barlinnie
At 9pm on BBC Two, the last episode of the second series of the docudrama set inside Glasgow’s notorious prison introduces offender Frankie, who has found the prison a stabilising force. An addict since age nine, this is the longest time he has been sober, but his habit of assaulting sex offenders has added time to his sentence.
Little Disasters
At 9pm on Channel 5, this thriller adaptation starring Diane Kruger continues. Jess and Ed’s behaviour now has consequences for the entire friendship group as social services get involved, leading to potential betrayals.
Death Valley
At 9.15pm on BBC One, the series two finale of this cosy crime hit is both funny and touching. Diffident detective Janie (Gwyneth Keyworth) is leaving for a year in Portugal, to the dismay of her police colleagues and actor sidekick John (Timothy Spall). Meanwhile, someone has been bludgeoned at a rugby club full of eccentrics.
Later… With Jools Holland
At 10pm on BBC Two, the final episode of this series features an impressive mix of old and new. Shania Twain shares a piano with Jools for a performance of her 1997 hit “You’re Still the One.” Arlo Parks offers tunes from her new album, and buzzy Canadians Angine de Poitrine bring spotty, theatrical, microtonal oddness.
Film Choices
Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story
At 4.25pm on Channel 4, Charlie Hamilton-James’s delightful documentary follows a year in the lives of Billy and Susan, a middle-aged couple who found Molly, a young otter, outside their remote Shetland home. Hungry and possibly orphaned, Billy brings her back to health. The film features lovely aerial shots of Molly along the coast and highlights the mental health benefits of close proximity to nature.
The Lost Boys
At 9.40pm on Sky Cinema Greats, Joel Schumacher’s undead horror/biker flick blends a Goonies-like caper with adolescent lust. Jason Patric plays Michael, the new kid in town drawn to Jami Gertz’s mystery girl, who is in thrall to rebel/vampire Kiefer Sutherland. Corey Haim drives the plot as Michael’s brother Sam, leading the fight back with holy water pistols, garlic, and comic book tips.
