CLASSIC FILMS AND TELEVISION

Although TV is not the ideal format, it’s simply impossible to view all the films you’d like to watch in a movie theater. However, with today’s advanced technology it is possible to have a decent replica of that experience in your own home.

Turner Classic Movies is without a doubt the best friend classic cinema has on television. There are many channels for old movies (links to the right), but most mix in a fair amount of modern programming, and some even have commercials. TCM, is dedicated to the classics, offering diverse and innovative programming that meets the desires of the die-hard enthusiast while staying accessible to new audiences commercial free.

“The Essentials” is an example of the network’s exceptional programming. The weekly show that airs Saturdays (8:00P EST/5:00P PST) is particularly designed to introduce a highly regarded classic to the unacquainted (film geek or otherwise). Venerable film authority Robert Osborne shares anecdotes and inside information with co-host and fellow enthusiast, Alec Baldwin. The chemistry these two share jumps off the screen, making it as much fun to listen to them talk about the movie as it is to watch it. I don’t know if TCM holds on to the out takes of this show, but I would love to get a look at everything Osborne and Baldwin have to say about “The Essentials”. I simply can’t get enough.

With the arrival of the studio-specific Fox Movie Channel and MGM Channel, maybe other old studios will follow suit (hey, RKO, Sony, Universal - are you listening?). Perhaps it’s just a matter of licensing and time. Here’s hoping!