FILMS OF THE WEEK

THE BIG MOVIE Macbeth (2015) 15 Wednesday, 9pm, Film4

William Shakespeare’s famous tale of betrayal and back-stabbing gets the kind of appropriately brutal, bloody adaptation that makes Braveheart look tame. As you’d expect, the Bard’s language is treated with the utmost respect, but it’s the imagery in this ominous, slow-build saga that drives the film – all murky Highland mists and blood-red skies, which perfectly set the scene for supernatural skulduggery and murder. A story plundered from history (not entirely accurately, as any good student will know), it follows the tragedy of Scottish general Macbeth, a man of troubled mind, who is seduced by the prophecies of an otherworldly trio. Michael Fassbender (above) – an actor used to such intensity – and French star Marion Cotillard top the cast as Macbeth and his scheming lady. VT

CLASSIC FILM CHOICE Genevieve (1953) U Tuesday, 11am, Film4

There’s a touch of Mr Toad (from The Wind In The Willows) about Kenneth More’s characterisation in this tally-ho British comedy, but that just makes it all the more entertaining. More and John Gregson are the pals engaged in a bitter battle of one-upmanship, and wagering on a car race – well, boys will be boys – much to the chagrin of their good ladies (Dinah Sheridan and Kay Kendall, above, left to right, with Gregson and More). Having just taken part in the annual London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, the chaps decide to make the return trip a little bit more lively by testing the prowess of their motors (a lovely 1904 Darracq and a flashy 1905 Spyker – the real stars here). Of course, it turns out to be anything but, and it is their friendship that is put to the test. Lashings of charm, classic cars and a classy cast – what more could you ask for? VT