Midweek TV Mix: From Tom Hanks Thriller to Police Action – 5* Wednesday Picks

Now: 21:00 BST – the 5* lineup is a smorgasbord of genres. From a Tom Hanks‑starrer to adrenaline‑packed police dramas, there’s something for every mood.

Inferno – 21:00 – 22:30

The thriller “Inferno” drops a 1½‑hour arc of high‑stakes science fiction. With Tom Hanks and Felicity Jones racing to stop a viral outbreak, the film delivers tight pacing and a suspenseful climax. It’s a reliable choice when you want a solid narrative without the fluff.

Bargain‑Loving Brits in the Sun – 08:00 – 09:00

The reality series takes a group of Brit shoppers on a sun‑filled tour of Spain. Episode 25 tops the comedy with a mishap on Nigel’s bus, while Aruna’s Indian cooking night tests guests’ spice tolerance. For casual viewing, the show’s lighthearted banter keeps the mood buoyant.

Traffic Cops – 11:00 – 14:00

Three hours of on‑the‑road action split into three episodes of “Traffic Cops” gives viewers a deep dive into road safety. Episodes 3, 4 and 8 cover insurance fraud, car theft and drink‑driving consequences. It’s one of the better options for those who enjoy real‑world drama.

Police Interceptors – 14:00 – 17:00

The West Yorkshire unit tackles high‑risk drivers and confronts gun‑shot incidents. Episodes 1, 2 and 3 showcase a mix of high‑speed pursuits and gun‑shot investigations. It’s a solid pick for those who like a mix of suspense and procedural detail.

Home and Away – 18:00 – 18:30

The Australian soap offers a quick 30‑minute window into family drama and emerging conflicts. While not the most gripping, it’s a dependable filler if you prefer a slice of everyday life.

GPs: Behind Closed Doors – 19:00 – 20:00

The medical documentary follows real patients and doctors in a day‑to‑day setting. Episode 13 brings personal stories of health challenges, offering a quiet, reflective tone that contrasts with the action earlier in the evening.

Casualty 24/7 – 20:00 – 21:00

The emergency drama follows paramedics dealing with sudden collapses and high‑risk patients. Episode 3 features a 53‑year‑old patient and a 94‑year‑old with critical conditions, providing a tense, realistic slice of medical reality.

Seconds from Death – 23:35 – 01:35

Two episodes of extreme sports gone wrong, from vulture‑attacked paragliders to disastrous demolition sites. The gritty footage is unsettling but holds up as a compelling showcase of danger.

Motorway Cops – 01:35 – 02:25

A 50‑minute look at speeders on the M53; the episode tackles a driver at 90 mph and a cannabis scent. It’s a quick, high‑energy wrap‑up after the late‑night drama.

Bottom line: The Wednesday schedule on 5* offers a balanced mix of thrill, reality, police action, soap, medical, and extreme sports. Pick “Inferno” for a cinematic kick‑off, then dive into the gritty world of “Traffic Cops” and “Police Interceptors” before winding down with the lighter “Home and Away”. The lineup caters to both adrenaline junkies and those looking for a quieter, reflective hour.