The Great Escape – 19:00 – 21:45

A 1963 classic about Allied POWs staging a daring breakout from a Nazi camp. The film’s tension is still palpable, and its period detail holds up well against modern expectations. Watching it is a reminder of how cinema can capture the grit of real wartime drama without resorting to gratuitous spectacle.

Gareth Edwards’s Great Welsh Adventure – 18:30 – 19:00

Rugby legend Gareth Edwards and his wife explore steam trains and rallying in Machynlleth. It’s light, relatable content that still entertains, especially for fans of sports personalities stepping outside their usual realm.

Don’t Look Now – 21:45 – 23:30

A 1973 mystery about a grieving couple. The film’s atmospheric tension is still effective, though the strong language and explicit scenes may not suit all viewers. It remains a staple of psychological thriller cinema.

Donald Sutherland: Scene by Scene – 23:30 – 00:15

An interview where the late actor reflects on his career. The conversation is insightful, though some parts contain strong language and disturbing content. It’s a compelling look at a prolific talent for those willing to engage with the darker moments.

Secrets of Bones – 18:00 – 18:30

Documentary led by Ben Garrod, exploring how vertebrates use jaws, teeth and bony tools to feed. It’s still entertaining for biology enthusiasts and offers a glimpse into the evolutionary ingenuity of the animal kingdom.

Ancient Worlds – 01:15 – 02:15

Richard Miles traces Alexander the Great’s influence and discovers a city where East and West converged. The program is a reliable historical excursion, though the pacing may feel uneven for some.

Bottom Line: The Thursday lineup balances nostalgia with fresh insights, ensuring that whether you’re after a cinematic escape or a deeper look at nature’s oddities, BBC Four delivers a solid evening of programming.

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Explore more on BBC Four: classic war films, science documentaries, and biographical interviews.