Seven Best Films to Watch on TV This Week: Toy Story 5 and Hamlet Lead 2026

If you're searching for the best films to watch on TV this week, you're in luck: the small screen is serving up an eclectic mix of animated adventures, Shakespearean tragedy, and gritty British drama. From the return of Woody and Buzz in Toy Story 5 to a bold modern-day Hamlet starring Riz Ahmed, there's something for every mood. Here are seven standout films to add to your watchlist.

Toy Story 5: A Nostalgic Eulogy to Childhood

Not particularly hot off the production line – Toy Story 4 was seven years ago – Woody, Buzz and their boxful of plastic friends are back. WALL-E director Andrew Stanton maintains the franchise's beguiling focus on the joys and pitfalls of childhood. With the retired Woody (Tom Hanks) absent, Joan Cusack's Jessie is the new sheriff in town/bedroom. But she faces an existential threat when her owner, Bonnie, ostracised by her tech-savvy peers, gets a tablet – the superior Lilypad "Lilly" (Greta Lee) – and loses all interest in play. While having a dig at society's digital obsessions, it's also a nostalgic eulogy to a world where pure imagination and the capacity to be silly are cherished.

When to watch: Wednesday 23 September, Disney+

Hamlet: Riz Ahmed's Bravura Performance

There is little Riz Ahmed can't turn his hand to, so it's no surprise that he gives a bravura performance as Shakespeare's tragic hero in Aneil Karia's modern-day adaptation. The royal Danes are now a wealthy British Hindu family of property developers, but the film retains the Bard's language while cutting down the text to focus exclusively on Hamlet's trauma. It's a bold move that largely pays off, as we follow the heir to the firm as he descends into angst, rage and revenge after discovering his uncle Claudius (Art Malik) murdered his father.

When to watch: Saturday 19 September, 10.05am, 6pm, Sky Cinema Premiere

Wasteman: A Gritty British Drama

The week's schedules also include Wasteman, a hard-hitting British film about a refuse collector who dreams of becoming a stand-up comedian. It's a poignant look at class, ambition, and the rubbish we all carry – both literally and metaphorically. Catch it if you appreciate character-driven stories with a social conscience.

When to watch: Friday 18 September, 9pm, BBC Two

Other Top Picks This Week

• Nomadland (Sunday, 8pm, Channel 4): Frances McDormand shines in Chloé Zhao's Oscar-winning ode to modern-day nomads.
• Casablanca (Monday, 3pm, BBC One): The timeless romance returns to remind us why it's a classic.
• Get Out (Thursday, 11pm, Film4): Jordan Peele's social thriller still cuts deep.
• The Farewell (Saturday, 9pm, BBC Two): Awkwafina delivers a heartfelt performance in this tender family dramedy.

Comparison Table: This Week's Film Highlights

Key Takeaways

• Toy Story 5 offers a nostalgic look at childhood in the digital age.
• Hamlet gets a bold modern retelling with Riz Ahmed.
• Wasteman is a poignant British drama about ambition and class.
• Other must-watch films include Nomadland, Casablanca, Get Out, and The Farewell.

FAQ

What are the best films to watch on TV this week?

What are the best films to watch on TV this week?

The top picks include Toy Story 5, Hamlet, Wasteman, Nomadland, Casablanca, Get Out, and The Farewell.

When is Toy Story 5 on TV?

Toy Story 5 premieres on Wednesday 23 September on Disney+.

Where can I watch Hamlet with Riz Ahmed?

Hamlet airs on Saturday 19 September at 10.05am and 6pm on Sky Cinema Premiere.