Film choice

Big Business (1988) FILM4, 11.00AM ★★

 Bette Midler and Lily Tomlin (each playing two roles) star as two sets of identical twins, where one from each set was accidentally swapped at birth in this breezy farce loosely based on Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors. Coincidences bring them together in New York setting off a series of comical situations and a decent use of the split screen. Incidentally, the film was originally written for Barbra Streisand and Goldie Hawn.

The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists! (2012)

BBC TWO, 1.30PM ★★★★★

This Aardman claymation romp is a delight. The impasto of non-stop gags, comic detail and slapstick action should appeal to all the family. Hugh Grant plays the Pirate Captain, who needs more booty if he is to stand a chance of winning the title of Pirate of the Year. The plot takes in Darwin, the last dodo and Queen Victoria (Imelda Staunton). David Tennant and Salma Hayek are among the great voice cast.

Billy Elliot: The Musical (2014) SKY ARTS, 9.00PM ★★★★

This is not the Jamie Bell film, but the exuberant stage musical based on it that has been thrilling audiences for over a decade. This version stars Ruthie Henshall as ballet teacher Mrs Wilkinson, who recognised the potential of a young Durham boy (played here by Elliott Hanna) and encourages him to join her class. His talent shines but he is facing societal pressure and a disapproving father.