Darkest Hour, starring Slow Horses star Gary Oldman brings legendary war time PM Winston Churchill’s first months as Prime Minister to life, and will be on your tv screens this evening

If you’re on the look out for a touch of Hollywood class this weekend, look no further than the Oscar nominated war film airing on BBC tonight.

The Darkest Hour sees Slow Horses star Gary Oldman take on the iconic role of legendary war-time Prime Minister Winston Churchill. The 2017 film follows Churchill’s turbulent first weeks as PM in May 1940, as Nazi forces sweep across Western Europe Europe and pressure mounts for Britain to engage in peace talks.

While focussing in gripping detail on every aspect of Churchill’s impact on those vital war-time months, the film also explores his personal life, showing the complexities of his relationship with wife Clementine and his secretary Elizabeth Layton, both of whom support him during this turbulent time.

Those who have already seen the film will remember arguably its most iconic scene, which sees Churchill stepping onto a London Underground train and interacting with the Birtish public, seeking their resolve in the face of seemingly likely defeat.

Oldman’s transformation into the iconic leader is nothing short of astonishing with many not recognising the actor when they saw the film in cinemas, and earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor. His portrayal is simultaneously commanding and vulnerable, and shows audiences Churchill’s fierce resolve all the while highlighting his emotional turmoil.

Darkest Hour doesn’t just revolve around Oldman’s performance though. The supporting cast, including Kristin Scott Thomas as Churchill’s supportive yet strong wife Clementine, and the brilliant Lily James as his earnest secretary Elizabeth Layton, also deliver memorable performances.

The film was a major success back in 2017, taking $150 million worldwide, and holds an impressive 84 per cent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. One viewer said: “Personally loved this movie. Has a perfect mixture of serious and emotionally charged scenes accompanied by absolutely stunning camera work and visuals. Totally recommend to my fellow history buffs.”

Another added: “Seen this film so many times now, and still love it. Gary Oldman plays such a convincing Winston Churchill… The film is captivating throughout.”

A third wrote: “The acting is phenomenal, the pacing is perfect. A riveting true story, expertly told.” Darkest Hour is on BBC2 at 6pm today (Saturday).