FILMS OF THE WEEK

THE BIG MOVIE The Bourne Identity (2002) 12 Saturday, 10.20pm, ITV The film that launched the hugely successful Jason Bourne film series rather cleverly put our hero (Matt Damon, above) out to sea, his identity unknown. Who is this man who was left for dead, but has a flair for espionage that seems second nature? Readers of the Robert Ludlum novels were at an advantage, of course, as were those who had seen the 1988 TV series starring Richard Chamberlain, but for those new to Ludlum’s work, this introduction to the complex web of Bourne is an exhilarating ride, one that rather deftly builds layers of character while keeping action fans and thrill-seekers occupied. There are now five in the film series, though the first three – based on Ludlum’s original trilogy (he died in 2001, before this film’s release) – are not only the best, but keep getting better. CLASSIC FILM CHOICE Hobson’s Choice (1953) U Friday, 2.20pm, Talking Pictures TV A rare comedy from director David Lean, this stars Charles Laughton, an actor, director, producer and writer whose mighty presence was known to burst out of the screen. This is, of course, a reference to his physical size (Laughton was a big, fat man), but also to his considerable range and intelligence as an actor – it’s hard to take your eyes off him. Here, Laughton stars as Henry Horatio Hobson, father of three daughters who all work for him in his Lancashire bootmakers. Convinced he’s the master of his house, Hobson fails to notice the rings his daughters – especially the elder Maggie (Brenda De Banzie, above, with Laughton) – run around him.

For all his flaws and foibles, Laughton ensures his blustering Hobson, bullish and drunk, is a believable buffoon with true emotional depth.