Another week ends, a new one starting which can only mean this weeks choices for Best films free on BBC iPlayer. For this week will have you singing and laughing with the original films from recent remakes.
The list below is only a small selection of what BBC have on offer. Something for all, new films and classic films from all genres. Do remember some of the films will be available for a limited time only!
WEST SIDE STORY (1961) CRIME, DRAMA, MUSICAL
With the recent cinema release from Steven Spielberg what better time to relive the classic Broadway musical. If Spielberg’s version the only version you have seen, why not go back to where it all started. It may look a little dated to younger generations, the music, the story, the magic is still all there and deserves to be called a
classic’
The tensions between rival gangs the Jets, whose members include ‘white’ Americans, and a Puerto Rican gang, the Sharks, reach boiling point in a hot New York summer. At a neighbourhood dance, Tony, the co-founder of the Jets, meets Maria, the sister of Bernardo, the leader of the Sharks. Their romance is thwarted by the gang rivalries.
A STAR IS BORN (1954) MUSICAL. DRAMA
Very few films can say they have had 3 remakes all considered ‘successful’. Many will know the award winning Bradley Cooper/ Lady Gaga remake which is a spin of the 1976 remake. This film is 1954 version a remake of the original 1937 version which the musician is now the actor. Netherless still a musical drama with Judy Garland and James Mason.
Musical drama in which a famous actor with a drink problem decides to help a budding young singer after hearing her perform. He signs her up with a film studio, where she lands the lead role in a big musical. The two become close and later marry, but while her career continues to blossom, his takes a downward turn
CALAMITY JANE MUSICAL, ROMANCE
Some critics may not have this one highly regarded, to cinephiles who loves a upbeat sing song, this is perfect classic. Western as a Musical might be cringeworthy, very few older films can boast screenings created for the audience to sing along to and sell out those screens.
Calamity Jane is the roughest, toughest gal in the town of Deadwood, and only ‘Wild Bill’ Hickok is man enough to discover the lady underneath the tough talk and gun belts.
Doris Day and Howard Keel star in this musical based on the lives of Calamity Jane and ‘Wild Bill’ Hickok, two real celebrities of the American West.
CRAZY RICH ASIANS COMEDY, DRAMA
If you enjoy that My Big Fat Greek Wedding style comedy but from an Asian perspective, this film probably be a treat for you. It comes with a big slice of social issues pie and a reminder you can choose love, not your family…
New Yorker Rachel Chu accompanies her longtime boyfriend, Nick Young, to his best friend’s wedding in Singapore. Excited about visiting Asia for the first time but nervous about meeting Nick’s family, Rachel is unprepared to learn that Nick has neglected to mention a few key details about his life. Not only is he the scion of one of the country’s wealthiest families, but also one of its most sought-after bachelors. Being on Nick’s arm puts a target on Rachel’s back, with jealous socialites and, worse, Nick’s own disapproving mother taking aim. It soon becomes clear that the only thing crazier than love is family.
PADDINGTON 2 ADVENTURE, COMEDY, FAMILY
Very few films can call themselves perfect or near perfect, this is one of those films. A family film with something for all ages that will all make you laugh or at least smile….It’s better than the original too!
Paddington finds the perfect gift for Aunt Lucy’s birthday, but when the gift is stolen, he becomes the prime suspect, and it is up to the Browns to prove his innocence.
SOME LIKE IT HOT COMEDY, ROMANCE
Timeless is a word that reminds us of this film. Tony Curtis, Jack Lemon the boys on the run from the mob. Oh did I mention Marilyn Monroe is also in this one?!
1929. Musicians Joe and Jerry accidentally witness the St Valentine’s Day massacre. The boys decide to make a getaway by joining a jazz band heading for Florida. There’s just one problem – it’s an all-girl group.
A comic masterpiece from director Wilder, with memorable performances.
The above descriptions are all taken (or partly) from the description at BBC iPlayer
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