17 Essential British Television Films
17 titles
- 1
Jacqueline du Pré in PortraitMovie · 2004 · 155mThis is a re-release of two films by Christopher Nupen, both favorites of his. The first film is a groundbreaking portrait of Jacqueline du Pré. The second, a performance film, was praised by French opera and film director Jean-Pierre Ponelle as the best adaptation of a musical performance to film he had ever witnessed.IMDb 8.0 - 2
Blue Remembered HillsMovie · 1979 · 72mIn the summer of 1943, a group of children enjoy a carefree day playing in the West Country countryside. Away from adults, they engage in playful games, sometimes mirroring the distant sounds of war, and other times exposing their own vulnerabilities and small conflicts.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.5 - 3
Nineteen Eighty-FourMovie · 1954 · 107m · Drama, Science Fiction, TV MovieIn a bleak future, a loyal Party member starts to doubt his devotion to the all-powerful regime led by Big Brother. His world changes when he develops a secret relationship with another person. This connection ignites a desire for rebellion, and together they risk everything to fight against the Party's control. Their love becomes a symbol of hope and a driving force for change in this unsettling story.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 4
28 UpMovie · 1984 · 136m · DocumentaryMichael Apted’s documentary series explores people at a crucial moment in their lives, as they question whether they’ve achieved what they wanted and truly belong. Two years before they turn 30, these participants face the realities of adulthood and examine the paths they’ve taken. The film looks closely at identity, ambition, and self-reflection, offering an honest look into the lives of people confronting past choices while planning for the future. Through direct interviews, viewers witness their journeys as they reconsider old aspirations, relationships, and ultimately search for meaning in their lives.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.5 - 5
The Wrong TrousersMovie · 1993 · 30m · Animation, Comedy, FamilyWallace, an inventive man with a good heart, rents out his spare room to an endearing, unusual penguin. The penguin becomes fascinated by Wallace’s latest invention: techno pants that dance with the wearer.
But as Wallace's loyal dog, Gromit, investigates the penguin’s background, he uncovers a secret: the charming bird is wanted by the authorities for a string of major crimes.
This funny and clever film blends humor, suspense, and touching moments as Gromit tries to prove the penguin’s innocence and solve a puzzling mystery centered on invention, wit, and friendship.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.8 - 6
The SnowmanMovie · 1982 · 25m · Adventure, Animation, FamilyOn Christmas Eve, a young boy builds a snowman in his yard, unaware it will come to life at midnight. The snowman then takes him on an incredible journey to the North Pole.
Together, they travel through a magical winter world, facing challenges that strengthen their bond. The boy discovers the true spirit of Christmas and learns about Santa's workshop.
This heartwarming story celebrates imagination, friendship, and the magic of Christmas, offering a captivating experience for all ages.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.5 - 7
Cathy Come HomeMovie · 1966 · 75mCathy and Reg are a couple with three young children whose lives fall into poverty when Reg loses his good job. *Cathy Come Home* is a powerful and moving drama that tackles important social issues like homelessness, unemployment, and a mother's right to her children.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.0 - 8
Live AidMovie · 1985 · 960m · Music, DocumentaryAt noon in London, 7 AM in Philadelphia, and worldwide, Live Aid begins – a historic event uniting music to combat the African famine. Broadcast live from Wembley Stadium in England and JFK Stadium in America, the global event connected 150 nations with an estimated 1.9 billion viewers. More than just a musical celebration, Live Aid demonstrated unity as musicians from all backgrounds joined for a shared purpose. The documentary captures the energy of those performances while highlighting the struggles of millions in Africa, offering a powerful cinematic look back.IMDb 8.5TMDB 7.9 - 9
An Englishman AbroadMovie · 1983 · 63mActress Coral Browne goes to Moscow where she encounters a mysterious Englishman. It turns out he is the infamous spy, Guy Burgess. Based on a true story, with Coral Browne portraying herself.IMDb 7.3TMDB 5.7 - 10
Bar Mitzvah BoyMovie · 1976 · 75mThe night before his Bar Mitzvah, Elliot notices a disappointing pattern among the adult men around him.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 11
Nuts in MayMovie · 1976 · 84m · Comedy, TV MovieA couple seeking peace from city life goes camping in Dorset. Their relaxing getaway takes a turn when they face a series of strange problems. The film explores their resilience, their relationship, and the funny, unforeseen events that derail their plans.
Through humorous mishaps and challenging situations, the camping trip pushes the couple to rethink what they consider comfortable and adventurous. As they deal with the unpredictable wilderness, they learn to adapt and reconnect. This story blends humor and reflection to examine human connection, showing that sometimes unexpected experiences lead to deeper fulfillment.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.0 - 12
Edna: The Inebriate WomanMovie · 1971 · 90mJeremy Sandford, the writer of "Cathy Come Home," created this British play for BBC Play For Today. It portrays the decline of Edna, a homeless woman struggling with alcoholism. The play was produced when being homeless was still considered a criminal offense.IMDb 7.9 - 13
Made in BritainMovie · 1983 · 76m · TV Movie, Crime, DramaA teenage boy clashes with authority as he tries to define himself against societal pressures. Detained in a center run by caring but strict social workers, his skinhead beliefs and rebellious spirit cause conflict. The film explores identity, conformity, and the difficulties young people face in navigating social expectations. It's a story about a teenager's search for self-acceptance while being pressured to fit in.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 14
The Naked Civil ServantMovie · 1975 · 77m · Drama, Comedy, TV MovieThe film tells the remarkable story of Quentin Crisp, who lived life defiantly on his own terms during an era that demanded conformity. Against the backdrop of World War II, this Englishman maintained his distinctive style and way of being. The movie explores Crisp's life, showing the difficulties and successes he encountered while staying true to himself despite societal pressures and disapproval. It’s a powerful look at someone who remained unwavering, highlighting the importance of individuality and the strength needed to live authentically in a challenging world.IMDb 7.8TMDB 6.6 - 15
CullodenMovie · 1964 · 69m · TV Movie, War, HistoryOn April 16th, 1746, the Battle of Culloden in the Scottish Highlands resulted in a devastating defeat for Great Britain. The chaotic battle was characterized by poor strategy and extreme violence, causing widespread suffering and loss. The film examines the events that led to this tragedy, highlighting those responsible for the destruction. It also remembers the innocent people who perished or were forever changed by Culloden, sharing their stories and ensuring they are not forgotten.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 16
The KnowledgeMovie · 1979 · 89mFour men prepare for and take the demanding "Knowledge" exam, required to become licensed London taxi drivers.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.5 - 17
Abigail's PartyMovie · 1977 · 107m · Comedy, Drama, TV MovieBeverly's arrival at a gathering of married couples disrupts their carefully maintained relationships. Her confident style and flirtatious behavior create growing emotional tension among the group. Throughout the evening, underlying conflicts surface as each person struggles with their own issues, stirred up by Beverly's open presence. The film examines infidelity, societal pressures, and personal identity, exploring the difficulties of human connection when facing expectations and desires.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.4
