TDS’ Movies on Demand bring viewers a nice variety of titles this week, including several critically acclaimed dramas, a box office hit comedy, a family flick about a errant squirrel, and a holiday-themed musical.
New this week on Movies on Demand
Philomena
An aging woman seeks out the child she was forced to give up as a teenager. Based on a true story, “Philomena” is a poignant and heart wrenching story laced with wit and humor. Dame Judi Dench has been deservedly praised for her performance in the title role, but Steve Coogan, as the journalist who helps Philomena on her quest, is equally brilliant. The film received four Academy Award nominations, including best picture and best actress (Dench). Available April 15.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
Ben Stiller stars and directs in this enjoyable adaptation of the classic James Thurber story of a day-dreamer who escapes his anonymous life by immersing himself into a world of fantasy. However, when his job is threatened, Walter embarks on a world-wide adventure more amazing than anything he had ever imagined. The film is beautiful, moving and thought provoking – great for entire family. Available April 15.
Ride Along
Need a laugh? Then “Ride Along” is your answer. While crude and sophomoric at times, this film, starring Ice Cube and Kevin Hart, will keep you smiling from beginning to end. Hart must prove himself to his future brother-in-law (police officer Ice Cube) by going along on a 24-hour patrol. The movie doesn’t break any ground, but the sharp and funny dialogue, as well as enjoyable performances, make it a winner. Available April 15.
The Nut Job
Surly the Squirrel has to pull off a raid on a nut store in order to get food for himself and the other animals to survive. It’s a funny (if somewhat forgettable) film that the kids will love. Available April 15.
Black Nativity
This holiday musical follows a confused teen who is forced to spend Christmas with is mother’s estranged parents. A wonderful cast, lead by Jennifer Hudson, highlight this film. If you like musicals and schmalzy holiday movies, don’t miss this one. Available April 15.
TV Highlights
Warehouse 13
SyFy’s “Raiders of the Lost Ark” clone kicks off its final season. Eddie McClintock as Pete Lattimer and Joanne Kelly as Myka Bering hunt the world for dangerous magical artifacts, mixing action, history and comedy in just the right doses. Monday, April 14, SyFy.
Fargo
FX takes a bold turn with this 10-part adaptation of the Coen Brothers’ 1996 film of the same name. The series, set in a small Minnesota town, boasts a quality cast, including Billy Bob Thorton and Martin Freeman. Expect lots of twisted characters and plot twists (but no wood chipper). Tuesday, April 15, FX.
Scandal
Expect things to explode (literally) in the season finale of ABC’s political drama. Election day is near. So is a big bomb. What secrets will be revealed? Who will die? Cliffhangers await in this increasingly ridiculous but always entertaining show. Thursday, April 17, ABC.
The Real History of Science Fiction
This new mini-series is a gold mine for sci-fi fans. Each episode dives into the one of the lasting themes of science fiction, examining such topics as time travel, robots, aliens and much more. Many of the finest film makers and actors of the genre take part. Saturday, April 20, BBC America.
