FOR THAT FESTIVE FEEL
Love Actually
It’s happened. Christmas favourite, Love Actually, is finally on Netflix ready for you to stream whenever you need festive pick-me-up.
The series of interconnected tales of romance star Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Laura Linney, Keira Knightley and Andrew Lincoln.
- Netflix, stream anytime
ALL THE FAMILY
Ratburger
David Walliams stars in the adaptation of his own children’s novel, Ratburger.
The star plays evil burger van man Burt and he will be joined by Sheridan Smith as you have never seen her before as slobbish stepmother Sheila.
Ratburger has been a favourite on the theatre circuit so there are high hopes for this.
- Sky One, Christmas Eve, 6pm
REALITY
Mary, Mel and Sue’s Big Christmas Thank You
If you have still got split loyalties after Bake-Off moved over to Channel 4 then fear not because Mary Berry and Mel and Sue are back on telly for Christmas.
This time they are indulging in the festivities during a show of support for a community centre in South Wales that has become a lifeline for youngsters and pensioners alike following plans to close a school and post office.
- BBC1, Christmas Eve, 7pm
FOR CHILDREN
The Highway Rat
Fans of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s picture books are in for a treat.
The animation team behind The Gruffalo and Stick Man have drawn together a voice cast, including Rob Brydon and David Tennant, for this story of a rather unfestive rat who steals sweets and treats – Dick Turpin style – before being taught a lesson.
- BBC1, Christmas Day, 4.45pm
DRAMA
Doctor Who
Christmas would not be the same without Doctor Who and this episode is our farewell to Peter Capaldi to make way for 13th Doctor, Jodie Whittaker.
In his swan song, Capaldi’s 12th Doctor encounter an enchanted glass woman and a face from the distant past.
- BBC1, Christmas Day, 5.30pm
THRILLER
Ex Machina
Proof that you don’t need a huge budget to make a sci-fi thriller. This clever, twisted story about artificial intelligence and human nature is acclaimed author Alex Garland’s debut film. It stars Domhnall Gleeson and Oscar Isaac, both from Star Wars, but Alicia Vikander stands out as an enigmatic robot.
- Film4, Boxing Day, 9pm
FOR STAR WARS FANS
The Force Awakens
If you are fanatical about a galaxy far, far away but will not have a chance to see Luke Skywalker’s return in The Last Jedi because of how busy the festive period is, then load up your Netflix account for the next best thing.
The streaming service currently features Star Wars: Episode VII for a chance to visit Disney and filmmaker J.J. Abrams’ much acclaimed relaunch of the saga.
- Netflix, stream anytime
COMEDY
Alan Partridge: Why, When, Where, How and Whom?
Fans are eagerly awaiting Alan Partridge’s return to the BBC as ‘the voice of Brexit’ next year.
And rumours persist that Steve Coogan’s fading Norfolk broadcaster will be back soon for the sequel to the hit film, Alpha Papa.
In the meantime, this documentary-style look back at Alan’s ‘rise to fame’ over 25 years should keep you chuckling.
BB2, December 27, 9pm
COMIC BOOK FUN
Avengers: Age of Ultron
Captain America, Iron Man, Hulk and Thor are back for more Marvel blockbuster thrills in this sequel to The Avengers.
Super heroics, tightly choreographed battles and explosions...what more could you want from a lazy post-festivities day in front of the telly?
- December 30, BBC1, 8pm
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