TV Times to get you through the lockdown

JOHN GORE, founder of StokeScreen Film Club, noted cineaste and friend of elementarywhatson, with his pick of the lesser-known but worth catching films coming up on TV

It was suggested that in the absence of StokeScreen activity, it might be nice for me to give some guidance about the lesser-known offerings available to you in your own living room via the “haunted fish tank”. I agree, pale imitation of the real thing though it may be.

So, with my trusty copy of the Radio Times clutched to my ever-heaving bosom, here are a few things that might otherwise pass notice:

 Saturday 11 April, 23.00, BBC 2: The Clouds of Sils Maria (pictured). Juliette Binoche as a precious actress preparing for a new role with personal assistant (a cracking turn by Kristen Stewart, far removed from Twilight) which all goes a bit All About Eve. Not as immediately funny but intelligent and engaging.  Sunday, 12 April, 23.15, BBC2: Effie Grey. The scandalous goings-on among the Pre- Raphaeltes. Emma Thompson's screenplay is as smart as we would expect.  Thursday, 16 April, 22.40, ITV4: Fargo. The Coen Brothers are as maverick as it is possible to be in mainstream American cinema. Fargo is one of their finest movies and Frances McDormand creates a truly original character as sheriff Marge Gunderson. You will have seen her deliver an equally impressive performance in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri and, as with that film, Fargo also includes some scenes of alarming violence - but all to a worthwhile end.  Friday, 17 April, 23.55, BBC1: The Sapphires. I have been looking for a copy of this to screen at StokeScreen. This is based on a true story about a group of young indigenous Australian women who form a vocal group, and their less-than-reliable manager, Dave.

He takes them on a tour of Vietnam in the 1960s, where they entertain the troops and find themselves. Revisionist it may be but, with characteristically frank and graphic Aussie humour and eminently danceable 60s soundtrack, it will put a smile on your face.

In normal times, StokeScreen Film Club screens movies at Coventry & North Warwickshire Sports Club. To find out more, email stokescreenfilmclub@aol.com or go to www.stokescreen.uk