Nextweek

THE LONG SONG Tuesday to Thursday, BBC One, 9pm

Adapted from the novel by Andrea Levy, this three-part drama follows a strongwilled slave during the upheaval of abolition in the 19th Century. She is, to say the least, intrigued when her cruel mistress is replaced by a new, seemingly revolutionary overseer.

GRIZZLY BEAR CUBS AND ME Tuesday and Wednesday, BBC Two, 9pm

Wildlife documentarian Gordon Buchanan joins a pioneering family of Russian biologists as they attempt to rehabilitate endangered grizzly cub orphans. When he arrives at their camp, he meets six malnourished cubs who have just been rescued.

MARK KERMODE’S SECRETS OF CHRISTMAS CINEMA Thursday, BBC Four, 9pm

The estimable film critic examines the tropes and techniques of Christmasthemed films in this engaging essay. How do the best of these films manage to capture the cockle-warming spirit of the season? Kermode reveals all.

VICTORIA AND ALBERT: THE ROYAL WEDDING Friday, BBC Two, 8.30pm

Historian Lucy Worsley oversees this authentic feature-length re-enactment of the wedding of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. She’s aided and abetted by an extensive archive of research, plus various food, clothing, royal and military experts.