FIVE OF THE BEST
Putin’s Russia with David Dimbleby
BBC 1, 9pm
When the film version of The Hunt For Red October hit cinemas in 1990, the talk of Cold War and defecting Russian sub commanders seemed more dated than disco. It was an era of Glasnost, and a bright, new future for the superpower, and the rest of the world. Alas, in recent months there’s been a nagging sense of deja vu for many who remember the darkest days of history. With British Intelligence accusing Vladimir Putin’s government of “kjcriminal thuggery”, this edition of Panorama examines what Russians see in their president. Experts also analyse how Putin has held on to power so long. David Dimbleby talks to an assorted mix of Putin supporters, while opposition protestors, lawyers and journalists reveal the ruthlessness and extent of the Kremlin’s autocratic rule.
Before Grenfell: A Hidden History
BBC 2, 9pm
The residents of Kensington and the community around Grenfell Tower tell the story, 150 years in the making, of how their borough became the most unequal place in Britain. Those local to the area share their memories of the dramatic events that shaped their community – from exploitation by notorious landlord Peter Rachman in the 1950s, to the first Notting Hill race riots, and the construction of Grenfell Tower in the 1970s. This is the untold story of a unique part of west London, revealing how its past has shaped its present.
Can Science Make Me Perfect? with Alice Roberts
BBC 4, 9pm
The anatomist embarks on a daring scientific stunt – to re-build her own body from scratch, removing errors left behind by evolution, to create the perfect body. With the help of virtual sculptor Scott Eaton and top special effects model-maker Sangeet Prabhaker, Alice is going to create a life-size model of the perfect human body – to be revealed in front of 150 people at London’s Science Museum.
How to Start an Airline
Channel 4, 10.30pm
Documentary following the highs and lows of businessman Kazi Shafiqur Rahman’s journey as he tries to launch a brand new airline in the UK. While working at City Airport, Kazi did every job imaginable, from catering to security and cleaning the plane toilets. After creating a successful fragrance business, he is now in the position to fulfil his ultimate ambition, but he is also under pressure to fulfil the demands of his faith and he insists his new airline complies with the teachings of Islam, complete with modest dress for cabin crew, and with only halal food served on board.
FIFA World Cup 2018 Preview
BBC 1, 10.45pm
Gary Lineker is joined by Alan Shearer and Jermaine Jenas to look ahead to the tournament in Russia, assessing the chances of the leading contenders in the 21st staging of the finals. Germany were victorious four years ago in Brazil and are among the leading contenders once again.