HPA Tech Retreat 2004 Report #3: HD Optical Disc Formats, Flat Panels, and Washington Policy Update

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Technology Retreat Report #3
By
Todd Mitchell

LA QUINTA, FEBRUARY 7, 2004 - Today was the final day of the fabulous HPA Tech Retreat hosted by that digital Gandolf, Mark Schubin. The morning began with the annual whirlwind Washington Update from technology attorney extraordinaire Jim Burger who recapped Cable Plug and Play, the Broadcast Flag, the Powell Transition plan for digital television, and the ATSC Tuner Mandate (all familiar territory to regular readers of HDTV Magazine). One interesting tidbit disclosed was the PBS plan to set a unilateral "hard date" for their own shut down of analog transmission and return of valuable analog spectrum allocation at some point before the end of 2006.

Next up was the kinder and gentler face of the MPAA, VP of Technology Brad Hunt. Brad is a true gearhead who remains remarkably current with really cool consumer electronic equipment, several pieces of which he displayed from photos he himself shot at CES. These included several new firewire products like the DISH PVR-921, the Pioneer DV-59Ai DVD-A and SACD decoding receiver, and the Mitsubishi 82 inch Alpha LCOS HDTV.

Later in the day HDTV Magazine contributor Pete Putman reviewed the latest developments in Flat Panel Displays. Pete's slides illuminated the many improvements being made to both LCD and plasma, highlighting several new full 1920x1080 panels displayed at the recent CES. Samsung and LG in particular have become major players in both markets and each appears to be trying to outdo the other in the bake off for world's largest HD flat panel display. One other panel that may be worth a second look is the new 55 inch enhanced Alis 1366x768 plasma display from Fujitsu and Hitachi.

One of the most anticipated presentations at this years Tech Retreat was today's High Definition Optical Disc Panel moderated by Mike Tsinberg of Key Digital.

Michael Fiedler of Sony and Don Eklund of Columbia Tri-Star Films extolled the virtues of Blu-Ray. All of you high resolution audio fans will be glad to hear as was I that Blu-Ray will incorporate an optional multi-channel high resolution audio program that should prove especially useful for concert material. Recent founding group signees include Dell Computer and Hewlett Packard.

Howard Osa made a rather subdued pitch for the recent DVD Forum endorsed HD-DVD camp, previously known as AOD(Advanced Optical Disc), also a blue laser technology, but using an advanced codec. Since Disney, Sanyo, and most importantly Microsoft appear to be poised to sign on it is a pretty good bet that Windows Media 9 will be their compression scheme of choice.
 

Wendy Aylsworth of Warner Bros. made a pitch for the red laser based HD/DVD9 format rejected last year by the DVD Forum which would be relatively inexpensive to implement. Pixsonics is promoting a similar system utilizing an additional layer of information on regular DVDs, thus eliminating the need for dual inventory.

Pankaj Topiwala of FastVDO made the case for AVC/H.264 which is an MPEG 4 variant compression scheme competing with Microsoft Windows Media 9 for designation as the standard on the DVD Forum's HD-DVD. Good luck Mr Topiwala.

The most audacious presentation of them all was by the relatively unknown On2 Technologies and its Engineering VP Eric Ameres. VP6 is a proprietary but freely distributed codec developed with the financial support of China, as in The Peoples Republic of. That's Red China for all of you cold warriors. First they take over the Moon and now high definition video discs? VP6 has already been approved by the SAC (the Standards Administration of China-and I'll bet you didn't even know that the SAC even exists), and is now "the approved format of the Chinese Central Government" aka the PRC. The On2 website claims VP6 to be the clearly superior HD format in side by side comparisons with Windows Media 9, H.264, and MPEG2.

All indications are that each of these camps are well entrenched and the likelihood of a single unified standard emerging anytime soon is increasingly remote. The stakes are very high, and this saga may dwarf that of Beta vs VHS many times over. Certainly the dream of recovering margins on DVD hardware by changing the rules of the game could be a fleeting one for the CEA. Does anyone know the Chinese word for "chutzpah"?

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 THANK YOU TODD FOR AN OUTSTANDING JOB OF REPORTING BACK TO US FROM THE TECHNOLOGY RETREAT.

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8:00PM ET/7:00 C
The Wonderful World of Disney: The Special Edition of The Lion King

Disney's epic coming-of-age saga tells of the love between a proud lion ruler, Mufasa, and his son, Simba — a naive and curious cub who "just can't wait to be king." But Simba's envious Uncle Scar and his hyena henchmen scheme for the throne, leading to tragedy … and to Simba's exile from the kingdom he should rightfully rule. Befriended by the warmhearted warthog, Pumbaa, and his manic meerkat companion, Timon, Simba forgets his regal responsibilities and adopts the carefree lifestyle of "Hakuna Matata." But can Rafiki, a wise mystic baboon, help Simba reclaim his true destiny in "the circle of life?" The outstanding voice cast includes James Earl Jones as Mufasa, Madge Sinclair as Sarabi, Jeremy Irons as Scar, Jonathan Taylor Thomas as young Simba, Niketa Calame as young Nala, Matthew Broderick as adult Simba, Moira Kelly as adult Nala, Whoopi Goldberg as Shenzi, Cheech Marin as Banzai, Jim Cummings as Ed, Nathan Lane as Timon, Ernie Sabella as Pumbaa, Robert Guillaume as Rafiki and Rowan Atkinson as Zazu. The hit soundtrack includes songs by Elton John and lyricist Tim Rice, and a score by Hans Zimmer. Zimmer won an Oscar for Best Music, Original Score; Elton John (music) and Tim Rice (lyrics) won the Oscar for Best Music, Song — "Can You Feel the Love Tonight." John and Rice were also nominated for Best Music, Song, for both "Circle of Life" and "Hakuna Matata." The Lion King was directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff, and produced by Don Hahn. The screenplay was by Irene Mecchi and Jonathan Roberts and Linda Woolverton. The songs are by Tim Rice and Elton John, and the original score was composed and arranged by Hans Zimmer. Executive producers were Thomas Schumacher and Sarah McArthur.
 

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Advertise your new HDTV services and products in the HDTV Magazine and reach your audience without fail.

 

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
Hack

"Fog of War"
Olshansky's cousin, a veteran of the war in Iraq, is having a hard time adjusting to life back home and feels that his only option is to kill himself.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
The District

"a.k.a."
Mannion investigates the murder of a woman who is about to testify in the trial of a crime lord. He also becomes uupset when several people come down with food poisoning after eating a sandwich named in his honor!
 

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8:00PM ET/7:00 C
The Tracy Morgan Show

"Miracle Street"
When Jimmy (Bobb'e J. Thompson) and Derek (Marc John Jefferies) beg their father to take them to the Snoop Dogg concert, Tracy (Tracy Morgan) vows to come through for his boys and find a way into the sold out show. But when his trusted scam artist Freddie (Kat Williams) fails to come through, Tracy goes to the extreme, passing his boys as members of a group who grants wishes to seriously ill children to snag front row seats. Hip-hop sensation Snoop Dogg appears as himself along with legendary R&B singer Bizmakie in the episode. Heavy D, Tamala Jones and John Witherspoon also star.

8:30PM ET/7:30 C
Whoopi

"The Vast Right Wing Conspiracy"
After a chance encounter with President Bush (guest star Steve Bridges) when his motorcade stops at the Lamont Hotel, Mavis (Whoopi Goldberg) cannot mouth off to the Commander in Chief after he recognizes her and pays homage to her singing talents -- but she clashes with Republican Courtney (Wren T. Brown) when Bush graciously invites her for a face-to-face meeting. Later, while out of place at a GOP function, a sassy Mavis drinks, smokes and speaks her mind -- and soon gets up-close-and-personal with the Secret Service. Omid Djalili and Elizabeth Regen also star.

8:59PM ET/7:59 C
Law & Order

"Bounty"
When the notorious bounty hunter "Bobcat" Rovelli - who is currently searching for fugitive rapist and bookstore heir Mitchell Maas -- is found dead in a seedy motel room, Detectives Briscoe (Jerry Orbach) and Green (Jesse L. Martin) attempt to piece together the events leading to his death. Uncovering the victimÓs recent contact with an up-and-coming African American journalist, who recently interviewed Maas, prompts detectives to investigate the reporter hoping to track down the fugitive. Sam Waterston, Elisabeth Rohm, Fred Thompson and S. Epatha Merkerson also star.

9:59PM ET/8:59 C
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

"Control"
When a subway commuter is mutilated during his evening commute, Detectives Benson (Mariska Hargitay) and Stabler (Christopher Meloni) scour the subway platform, believing the attack to have been perpetrated by a territorial transient. However, when the station surveillance tapes reveal the attacker to be a women, the detectives discover their victim has been abducting women and forcing them to live in his dungeon for several years, pointing their suspicions to one of his victims (guest star Samantha Mathis, "American Psycho") and her mother (Golden Globe Nominee Jacqueline Bisset, "Joan of Arc"). Dann Florek, Richard Belzer, B.D. Wong, Diane Neal and Ice-T also star.

 

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6:00AM ET/5:00 C
Great Moments In Italian Art

"Michelangelo"
Michelangelo is truly a genuis among the group of artists from the Renaissance era. From marble to paint his work includes the graceful lines of the statue "David" and the breathtaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel.

7:00AM ET/6:00 C
Greatest Fireworks On Earth

Experience pyrotechnique displays around the world from a Las Vegas extravaganza to ceremonial rituals in Valencia, Spain.

8:00AM ET/7:00 C
Wright Brothers: First In Flight

Nearly a century after the Wright brothers built the first powered aircraft, a team of engineers is building a reproduction of the 1903 Wright Flyer. From original notes, blueprints and photos, they are uncovering the Wright brother's path to success.

10:00AM ET/9:00 C
Pennsylvania: Cresheim Road

Trading Spaces has landed us in the heart of the city and our designers are trying to help these hip teams turn their spaces up a notch. Kia tries to spice up the kitchen while Hildi throws in some hot, vibrant colors and tries a new floor technique.

11:00AM ET/10:00 C
Trading Spaces: 100 Grand

It's everything you've come to know and love about your favorite show - multiplied by 50! Imagine being able to spend $50,000 on one room in your house. No worries about going over budget on this show!! With unforgettable twists and turns along the way.

1:00PM ET/12:00 C
On The Edge Of Destruction: The Frank Slide Story

It was 4:10 a.m., April 29, 1903 in the coal-mining town of Frank in the southern Canadian Rockies when the peaceful night was shattered by the sudden roar of a landslide.

2:00PM ET/1:00 C
People Of The Lake

Migrating over 500 years ago from the south of what was then known as Burma, the Intha people of Myanmar spend virtually their entire existence afloat. Some 80,000 people, whose name means "Sons of the Lake," live in stilted villages along Lake Isnle.

3:00PM ET/2:00 C
Defcon - 2: Defense Readiness Condition

DEFCON-2 is the highest level of US military readiness short of nuclear war. Travel back to the tension filled days of the Cuban Missile Crisis with author Tom Clancy for an analysis of key participants on both sides of the confrontation.

4:00PM ET/3:00 C
Rhythms Of Cuba

Cuba is alive, set afire with music and rhythms of another time and place. Join Cuba's most reknowned musicians as they trace the evolution of their music. Feel your feet tap as you explore the culture and history of Latin American dance and music.

5:00PM ET/4:00 C
South Georgia Island: Life Under The Furious Fifties

An island lost at the end of the world. A land battered by the furious winds of the Arctic. A cemetery of ships and whaling settlements. Witness nature's struggle for survival on one of the most remote and unforgiving islands on the planet.

6:00PM ET/5:00 C
Xtreme Martial Arts

The World's legendary fighting styles seen in an entirely new way. As two young martial artists fight their way through the world's most prestigious tournament, East meets West in a stunning application of visual technologies and secrets of martial arts.

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
Mysterious Cities Of Asia

"Beijing"
Surrounding Beijing's Imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, are complex networks of alleyways formed over 700 years ago. With the 2008 Olympic games to be held there, the area is slated for redevelopment and it's history is in jeopardy.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
People Of The Lake

Migrating over 500 years ago from the south of what was then known as Burma, the Intha people of Myanmar spend virtually their entire existence afloat. Some 80,000 people, whose name means "Sons of the Lake," live in stilted villages along Lake Isnle.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
Secrets Of The Southwest

Journey through a land of unending surprises, a land of dramatic highlands and badlands and ancient panoramas. We'll explore Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, mazes in the Goosenecks, dinosaur tracks in Painted Desert and Lake Powell.

11:00PM ET/10:00 C
Mysterious Cities Of Asia

"Beijing"
Surrounding Beijing's Imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, are complex networks of alleyways formed over 700 years ago. With the 2008 Olympic games to be held there, the area is slated for redevelopment and it's history is in jeopardy.

12:00PM ET/11:00 C
People Of The Lake

Migrating over 500 years ago from the south of what was then known as Burma, the Intha people of Myanmar spend virtually their entire existence afloat. Some 80,000 people, whose name means "Sons of the Lake," live in stilted villages along Lake Isnle.

1:00AM ET/12:00 C
Secrets Of The Southwest

Journey through a land of unending surprises, a land of dramatic highlands and badlands and ancient panoramas. We'll explore Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, mazes in the Goosenecks, dinosaur tracks in Painted Desert and Lake Powell.

2:00AM ET/1:00 C
Pennsylvania: Bryant Court

Laurie declares herself "zany for zinnias" in a floral painted bedroom for two little girls. Meanwhile Hildi's homeowners think she's gone plain crazy when she paints a dining room black. Amy Wynn is busy working hard to get her projects finished.

3:00AM ET/2:00 C
Mysterious Cities Of Asia

"Beijing"
Surrounding Beijing's Imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, are complex networks of alleyways formed over 700 years ago. With the 2008 Olympic games to be held there, the area is slated for redevelopment and it's history is in jeopardy.

4:00AM ET/3:00 C
People Of The Lake

Migrating over 500 years ago from the south of what was then known as Burma, the Intha people of Myanmar spend virtually their entire existence afloat. Some 80,000 people, whose name means "Sons of the Lake," live in stilted villages along Lake Isnle.

5:00AM ET/4:00 C
Secrets Of The Southwest

Journey through a land of unending surprises, a land of dramatic highlands and badlands and ancient panoramas. We'll explore Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, mazes in the Goosenecks, dinosaur tracks in Painted Desert and Lake Powell.
 

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NEWS ITEM....

DTV Drafthouse Returns for Second Round at NAB2004 More DTV Products and Technology in a New Location

Washington, D.C., February 5, 2004 - The Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC), the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) are partnering again to showcase digital television (DTV) products and technology in the "DTV Drafthouse: Technology On Tap!" at the upcoming NAB2004 Convention, April 19 - 22 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

"Last year's DTV Drafthouse was a real hit with convention attendees," said NAB President and CEO Edward O. Fritts. "We plan to build on that success this year with an even greater array of DTV technology and programming in a comfortable, tavern-like setting."

The Drafthouse will feature the latest DTV products to hit the consumer marketplace and demonstrations of technologies that utilize the broad flexibility of the ATSC broadcast standard.

"A keyword for DTV products in 2004 is integration," said Gary Shapiro, CEA president and CEO. "CEA member companies are focused on introducing a multitude of integrated HDTV products into the consumer marketplace while continuing to offer consumers a broad array of product choices. The DTV Drafthouse will provide NAB2004 attendees the opportunity to see the products that will soon be in the hands of millions of consumers nationwide."

"In addition to the wide array of consumer products, the latest technology based upon the evolving suite of ATSC Standards will be highlighted," said ATSC President, Mark Richer.

This year, the DTV Drafthouse has expanded to be bigger and better than ever in a new location - the Las Vegas Convention Center's South Hall Upper Lobby.

In addition to serving the latest in DTV technology, the Drafthouse will offer wine and beer for sale. The DTV Drafthouse will be open Monday through Wednesday, April 19 - 21, from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Thursday, April 23 from 9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For the past three NAB conventions, ATSC, CEA, and NAB have showcased DTV through the popular "DTV Store" exhibit and then the "DTV Drafthouse". A list of Drafthouse sponsors, as well as products and DTV programs to be showcased in the DTV Drafthouse, will be announced in late March.
 

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6:00AM ET/5:00 C
High School Basketball

Southwest Christian Academy @ Landmark Christian High School - The nation's top two high school prospects, Dwight Howard and Randolph Morris square-off when Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy battles Landmark Christian

7:30AM ET/6:30 C
Music Videos

8:00AM ET/7:00 C
Swamp Buggy Racing from Florida Sports Park

Swamp buggy races from Naples, Florida continues a more than 50 year tradition.

10:00AM ET/9:00 C
White Hot Winter

Banff (Sunshine, Norquay) - One of the biggest tourist draws in Canada, Banff National Park is a world class winter destination. Have breakfast with a group of Aussies (and a Kiwi) at the local youth hostel. Then, find out how Sunshine is re-inventing itself and opening new terrain to capture the extreme skiing market.

10:30AM ET/9:30 C
Chick Corea: Rendezvous in New York

"Now He Sings, Now He Sobs" Trio - Continuing the historic 3 week performance at New York City's Blue Note celebrating the career of legendary jazz pianist Chick Corea, "Now He Sings, Now He Sobs" Trio reunites Chick Corea with drummer Roy Haynes and bassist Miroslav Vitous in a performance that draws from the 1968 album of the same name.

11:30AM ET/10:30 C
Higher Definition

Pop-culture writer/host Robert Wilonsky sits down with pop-star turned actor Mandy Moore, along with her Chasing Liberty co-star Matthew Goode; and, Jackie Kallen, the inspiration for the new Meg Ryan movie, Against the Ropes lets us in on a few secrets of the boxing world.

12:00PM ET/11:00 C
HDNet This Month

February 2004 - Take a look at HDNet's weekly schedule with segments from the HDNet World Report, Across America, the NHL on HDNet, a new season of An American In Canada, the premiere of Odyssey 5, and exclusive high definition concerts from chart topping artists. HDNet This Month also gives you a sneak peak at the films you can see this month on HDNet Movies. HDNet is television like you've never seen before.

1:00PM ET/12:00 C
HDNet World Report

Siberia: A Tale of Two Soviet Cities - HDNet World Report cameras travel to two cities in the former Soviet Union to see first-hand how freedom has changed them. And, most importantly how their people have adjusted to new capitalist attitudes.

1:30PM ET/12:30 C
On the Set: An American in Canada

On the Set: An American in Canada is a tongue in cheek look at a "typical" day on the set of this award winning Canadian comedy.

2:00PM ET/1:00 C
Snowology 101

The evolution of freestyle skiing. From the 70's, 80's to the Free Ride movement of today. Exciting 4-man Snowcross, Big Air, Slopestyle and Big Mountain competitions from Vail, Colorado, Snowbird, Utah, Kirkwood, California and Whistler, British Columbia. Hosted by Uncle E.

2:30PM ET/1:30 C
Hollywood HD

"Miracle" Hockey Event with the 1980 US Hockey team and the stars who portray them in the movie. Chef to the stars Wolfgang Puck shares his menu for the Academy Awards. Plus, Oscar winner Michael Caine signs a three-picture deal for the new Batman.

3:00PM ET/2:00 C
Weekend Explorer

Redding, California - Jump a wave wakeboarding, feel the rush of whitewater rafting, experience the thrill of waverunning, and enjoy BBQ cooking in a hot tub while houseboating on scenic Lake Shasta. Tour one of the US's largest dams, walk among giant ancient stalactites in Shasta Caverns, explore the wildlife of Turtle Bay, and catch a rainbow trout while enjoying a fishing float trip.

3:30PM ET/2:30 C
Border Battle 9-Ball Challenge

Match 5 - Singles Play
Alain Martel - Canada
Earl Strickland - USA
Match 6 - Sinlges Play
Cliff Thorburn - Canada
Nick Varner - USA

4:30PM ET/3:30 C
Travis Tritt Live & Kickin

Travis Tritt performs live at the historic Tivoli Theatre in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

6:00PM ET/5:00 C
Smart Travels Europe

Venice - Surrender yourself to the charms of magical Venice. Tour the famous sites and find out how to escape the crowds in less well known neighborhoods.

6:30PM ET/5:30 C
Stalingrad

The Attack - In the summer of 1942, the Volga becomes the target of Hitler's great offensive for the southern sector of the Eastern Front. For the first time ever, the Battle of Stalingrad - which claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and marked the tuning point of World War II - is portrayed not only from a German perspective. Hear eyewitness accounts of a name forever associated with the horrors of war: Stalingrad.

7:30PM ET/6:30 C
HDNet World Report

Siberia: A Tale of Two Soviet Cities - HDNet World Report cameras travel to two cities in the former Soviet Union to see first-hand how freedom has changed them. And, most importantly how their people have adjusted to new capitalist attitudes.

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
Hotlines Premiere

Hotlines Underwater Attack - A special episode jam packed with unbelievable underwater encounters with some of the most beautiful and dangerous creatures on earth. Giant sharks, prehistoric fish, eels, mantas, whales and dolphins abound as the Hotlines crew heads into the deep blue!

8:30PM ET/7:30 C
Hollywood HD

"Miracle" Hockey Event with the 1980 US Hockey team and the stars who portray them in the movie. Chef to the stars Wolfgang Puck shares his menu for the Academy Awards. Plus, Oscar winner Michael Caine signs a three-picture deal for the new Batman.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
HDNet Movie Night Premiere

Freeway - After her mom and step-dad are arrested, a 15-year-old girl decides to escape foster care, and hitches a ride with a serial killer on her way to find her grandmother she's never met. Starring Keifer Sutherland and Reese Witherspoon.

11:00PM ET/10:00 C
College Basketball LIVE!

Washington State @ USC

1:30AM ET/12:30 C
Hotlines

Hotlines Underwater Attack - A special episode jam packed with unbelievable underwater encounters with some of the most beautiful and dangerous creatures on earth. Giant sharks, prehistoric fish, eels, mantas, whales and dolphins abound as the Hotlines crew heads into the deep blue!

2:00AM ET/1:00 C
HDNet Movie Night

Freeway - After her mom and step-dad are arrested, a 15-year-old girl decides to escape foster care, and hitches a ride with a serial killer on her way to find her grandmother she's never met. Starring Keifer Sutherland and Reese Witherspoon.

4:00AM ET/3:00 C
Hollywood HD

"Miracle" Hockey Event with the 1980 US Hockey team and the stars who portray them in the movie. Chef to the stars Wolfgang Puck shares his menu for the Academy Awards. Plus, Oscar winner Michael Caine signs a three-picture deal for the new Batman.

4:30AM ET/3:30 C
Thieves

Home Is Where The Heist Is - Johnny and Rita cohabitate in suburbia for their latest assignment. While recovering a stolen computer virus, they discover just how comfortable life together could actually be. Guest starring Tone Loc, Wanda de Jesus and Armin Shimerman.

5:30AM ET/4:30 C
A Caribbean Workout 2003

In Almond Beach along the west coast of Barbados features Rebound exercises.
 

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Taken from the files of Dale Cripps, publisher, HDTV Magazine

A Historical Perspective, Part I
by
Dale Cripps

I am going to present some of the long and arduous history of the HDTV movement for two reasons. The first is to introduce you to the monumental and painstaking international task that it has been and continues to be and to give you insight into the great strengths of HDTV which has allowed it to endure through all attempts at to destroy it. The people who were and are responsible for it getting to your home and mine met and overcame every adversity they encountered along the way--and there were many. They are worthy and deserving of honor and HDTV Magazine announces with great excitement the formation of the HDTV Hall Of Fame. There will be people inducted into this Hall that will continue to ring out in history for hundreds of years to come, not just for technical prowess and inventiveness that was called upon, but for their courage and unswerving devotion to bringing to birth something we all agree is a very good thing for everyone. Had it failed, every one of the people I am refereeing to would have had an indelible tarnish overlaid on their careers. All knew the stakes. Still they did what they had to do to get us to this point. The reason I know HDTV is the tool of leaders is because real leaders led it. It is more than about television and always has been.

This piece you will find below appeared in Widescreen Review in in 1997. I have updated it just a little. I wrote these articles -- about 50 of them in all -- to be read at this time as well as when they were published so the public can gain a sense of what went into getting them their last Sunday's Super Bowl in HDTV. This one article, which I picked at random, will only give you a flavor--a fly over-and the others will develop the meat on the bones. I also have most of the masters to the HDTV Newsletter (over 5000 pages), which I also wrote to be read as a document of interest for those who may enjoy an inside look today under the hood of the most prolific form of communications and influence the world has ever known. I will place those in due time in our members only zone and perhaps some revenue to propel us along can be generated by their redistribution.

 Part 2

The FCC draws most of its authority from the Communications Act of 1934. A major task of the FCC is to manage electromagnetic spectrum in the interest of the American public. That interest includes the fostering of business to serve the publicÂ’s communications needs. This is done mostly from FCC rulings which come as a process of adapting to technical and political changes. Through these rulings competitive opportunities are typically provided to large and small companies and minorities while maximizing telecommunications services to the public.

The FCC today was in the eye of a hurricane. Telecommunication legislation—the massive Telecommunications Bill—was pending before Congress. The bill—the first new telecommunication legislation (should it pass) in 62 years—was whipping up a mountain of change. The dramatic new digital technologies and applications more than threatened to reorder the role of the FCC and the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure. At that time the FCC needed to operate as if the telecom bill has not passed. If it had not pass the FCC will still make rulings on the DTV digital spectrum allotments, and how the new spectrum is to be used. When the bill passed there were specific legislated mandates which the FCC did administer, though have little influence upon them. Granting new spectrum to existing broadcasters for transitioning to digital services was one of the specific provisions of the Telecommunications bill.

The FCC s not Imperious as it often appears. It frequently reaches out to gauge the views of those affected in upcoming actions. Notices of Inquiry (NOI) and the Notices for Proposed Rule Making (NOPRM) are two methods for soliciting outside opinions. In the fall of 1995 a 4th Notice of Proposed Rule Making was issued for DTV. Broadcasters and those others affected submitted in December their reply comments. The Notice raised a multitude of new and revisited question regarding the new frequency allotment. The most crucial issues have always been over how the channel was to be allotted, how it must be used, how long to get going, and when does the old analog channel have to be returned to the FCC.. Since the last NOPRM the Grand Alliance had “heard broadcasters pleas” and added far more flexibility to its system. The flexibility allows for multiplex programming in one 6 MHz channel, plus ancillary data. For the last previous two years broadcasters had been sending messages to Congress that they wanted this full flexible use of the channel in the Telecom Bill—use it in any way to make money while meeting just a minimum of public service requirements. Surprisingly, a number of broadcasters said in their response that HDTV should in fact be mandated for some part of the day.

 

Ex-Speaker Newt Gingrich had also entered the scene. He wanted to withhold any assignments of the digital channel for up to 12 months in order to complete a study. Since there was a  once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reorder spectrum the study was to see if the best use of it was being made with the new allotment tables. Perhaps there was even a new technology here-to-fore unconsidered. Some advocates, like Bill Schreiber (MIT Professor, retired) of single frequency spread spectrum approach had said that the transmission and compression choices of the Grand Alliance system (8VSB & MPE2) were not at all optimal. The 12 month delay being proposed then could see even newer technologies poking their noses under the tent to further delay the introduction of HDTV. In light of all this and other lesser gremlins the Grand Alliance folks reluctantly revised their start-up date for HDTV to 1999 from 1996. It appeared for the time being that government actions (by either legislation or FCC rulings) would largely affect the fate of the HDTV movement. The only thing to mitigate it was the behavior of the American marketplace toward HDTV. That could come only from a raising of the public awareness on the values of HDTV and getting some public influence working in the process.

To complicate things still further (as if that were possible) signals were being sent by the FCC that maybe the whole thing should be forgotten. FCC Chairman Reed Hundt astonished an audience in a speech by questioning the wisdom of transitioning the broadcasters from a well working analog NTSC system to one less certain in digital. Reports came in saying that he had abandoned that tact, but fear remained that it could resurface under certain difficult condition. Since broadcasters saw themselves ultimately holding both new and old frequencies forever they were not so keen on abandonment of the project.

Manufacturers fervently believe that over-the-air broadcasters were the essential players if a commercial success was to be realized for the digital television transition. If broadcasting failed to make the transition TV sets would remain analog devices. Cable (as does DSS now) would  supply set top digital boxes, but with an analog out. Broadcast signals reach more homes then do telephones and the influence that has on the set makers was substantial! If broadcasting were to go  digital, the sets could quickly follow. Overcoming the market strength of analog NTSC was not and is  not a trivial matter and as the reality of change approaches it was trying to slap the baby down. But some were buying into the momentum of the DVD, a digial box, and saying that it could drive digital television and be a very suitable platform for HDTV later on. Whether the manufacturers would bet heavily on both the DVD and the carrying of HDTV was an imponderable. Broadcasters would have to get in the game to provide a comfort zone for manufacturers if there was to be as full commercial commitment.    To be continued tomorrow..

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7:30AM ET/6:30 C
Hero At Large

PG - 1:38
Cast: John Ritter, Anne Archer, Bert Convy Director: Martin Davidson
An actor tries his luck as a superhero after he accidently stops a crime dressed in his cape.

9:15AM ET/8:15 C
Explorers

PG - 1:49
Cast: Ethan Hawke, River Phoenix, Bobby Fite Director: Joe Dante
Three friends travel to outerspace in their makeshift contraption.

11:05AM ET/10:05 C
North Shore

PG - 1:34
Cast: Matt Adler, Gregory Harrison, Nia Peeples Director: William Phelps
A mainland surfer from Arizona, makes his way to Hawaii to surf the big waves.

12:45PM ET/11:45 C
The Endless Summer II

PG - 1:49
Cast: Robert August, T.J. Baron, Jeff Booth Director: Bruce Brown
Sequel to The Endless Summer, which follows two hard core surfers as they search the globe for the perfect wave.

2:35PM ET/1:35 C
Hero At Large

PG - 1:38
Cast: John Ritter, Anne Archer, Bert Convy Director: Martin Davidson
An actor tries his luck as a superhero after he accidently stops a crime dressed in his cape.

4:15PM ET/3:15 C
We're No Angels

PG-13 - 1:46
Cast: Robert De Niro, Sean Penn, Demi Moore Director: Neil Jordan
Two criminals on the run from the law hide out as priests.

6:00PM ET/5:00 C
City Slickers 2: The Legend Of Curly's Gold

PG-13 - 1:56
Cast: Billy Crystal, Daniel Stern, Bruno Kirby Director: Ron Underwood
Three friends return to the wild west after discovering Curly's treasure map, and begin a new adventure.

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
Songwriter

R - 1:34
Cast: Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Melinda Dillon Director: Alan Rudolph
Two country singers rock their way out of a bad deal.

9:35PM ET/8:35 C
Bronco Billy

PG - 1:59
Cast: Clint Eastwood, Sondra Locke, Geoffrey Lewis Director: Clint Eastwood
Bronco Billy's Wild West Show is in financial trouble. When a new performer joins the group, she brings even more bad luck upon the show.

11:35PM ET/10:35 C
Songwriter

R - 1:34
Cast: Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Melinda Dillon Director: Alan Rudolph
Two country singers rock their way out of a bad deal.

1:15AM ET/12:15 C
Bronco Billy

PG - 1:59
Cast: Clint Eastwood, Sondra Locke, Geoffrey Lewis Director: Clint Eastwood
Bronco Billy's Wild West Show is in financial trouble. When a new performer joins the group, she brings even more bad luck upon the show.

3:15AM ET/2:15 C
Hero At Large

PG - 1:38
Cast: John Ritter, Anne Archer, Bert Convy Director: Martin Davidson
An actor tries his luck as a superhero after he accidently stops a crime dressed in his cape.

5:00AM ET/4:00 C
City Slickers 2: The Legend Of Curly's Gold

PG-13 - 1:56
Cast: Billy Crystal, Daniel Stern, Bruno Kirby Director: Ron Underwood
Three friends return to the wild west after discovering Curly's treasure map, and begin a new adventure.

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John Taylor from LG/Zenith. The Zenith brand will fade and the lg brand from Korea will replace it. this company is now in their 5th generation 8-vsb top box that works er, well...as good as the first ones, only better.

 

7:05AM ET/6:04 C
The Last American Virgin

R Time: 92
Is anything fair in love or high school? Will shy, inexperienced Gary win the girl of his dreams from his best friend, "makeout" Rick? It's fun and games, but problems too, as teen buddies try to cure growing pains and succeed mainly in shocking their school and families. A New Wave soundtrack shakes up the action. With Lawrence Monoson, Diane Franklin, Steve Antin, Joe Rubbo and Louisa Moritz. Directed by Boaz Davidson.

8:40AM ET/7:40 C
Eight Legged Freaks

PG13 Time: 99  
No Description Available.

10:20AM ET/9:20 C
I Spy

PG13 Time: 96  
Eddie Murphy and Owen Wilson team up as the classic mismatched spy duo who must retrieve a valuable stolen aircraft from an international felon in this comical remake of the hit TV show. Murphy and Wilson reprise the roles made famous by Bill Cosby and Robert Culp as the international espionage partners who pursue global villains for the U.S. government. When the President reports a vital U.S. Stealth plane called the Switchblade stolen, Kelly Robinson (Murphy), a suave boxing champ, is paired with Alex Scott (Wilson) a socially awkward, but bright government agent to find the criminals and recover the high-tech jet. Co-starring Famke Janssen and Malcolm McDowell. Directed by Betty Thomas; based on a story by Marianne Wibberley & Cormac Wibberley; screenplay by Marianne Wibberley & Cormac Wibberley and Jay Scherick & David Ronn.

12:00PM ET/11:00 C
Anaconda

PG13 Time: 89  
Welcome to the Amazon, where every creature is a link in the food chain, and even a human is just a potential meal! A group of filmmakers journeys deep into the jungle in search of a legendary Indian tribe...but instead happens upon a ravenous, 40-foot snake. One by one, they become breakfast, lunch and dinner...until only two are left in a desperate fight to the death! Also with Eric Stoltz and Kari Wuhrer.

1:30PM ET/12:30 C
Quiet

TVMA Time: 28  
The loss of his son and the stress of dealing with his nasty, domineering wife send a man over the edge in this darkly comic short. Directed by Sylvain White. Widescreen.

2:00PM ET/1:00 C
Road To Perdition

R Time: 117  
"Sons are put on the Earth to trouble their fathers," growls Paul Newman as mob boss John Rooney. Set in 1931 Illinois, this compelling period gangster film from Oscar(R)-winning director Sam Mendes (American Beauty) focuses on the various father-son relationships that collapse amidst the violence of mob life. Tom Hanks stars as Michael Sullivan, a coldly intelligent enforcer whose father-figure boss Rooney is forced to order Sullivan's death--thanks to the tragic actions of Rooney's own uncontrollable son. With an assassin on his tail who likes to photograph corpses, Sullivan takes his surviving son on the run...while formulating a plan to avenge the brutal slayings of his wife and youngest boy. Jennifer Jason Leigh and Stanley Tucci co-star in this adaptation of the graphic novel by Max Allan Collins and Richard Piers Rayner. Screenplay by David Self.

4:00PM ET/3:00 C
Spider-man

PG13 Time: 121  
"With great power comes great responsibility." For Peter Parker, his late uncle's words become his personal credo in this spectacular adaptation of the landmark comic book. Directed by Sam Raimi (the Evil Dead films) and written by David Koepp, the film stars Tobey Maguire as Peter, a nerdy high-school teen who lives with his aunt and uncle in Queens and pines for his sexy neighbor Mary Jane. Bitten by a radioactive spider, Peter suddenly develops incredible physical characteristics, but it is not until his uncle is tragically murdered that the youth realizes his true calling. For New York City, it's just in time, thanks to the arrival of the Green Goblin, an evildoer whose mask and murderous mission hide his true identity--and his disturbing connection to Peter! Willem Dafoe, Kirsten Dunst and James Franco co-star.

6:00PM ET/5:00 C
Solaris

PG13 Time: 98  
Steven Soderbergh's cerebral remake of the 1972 Russian sci-fi classic follows a doctor who encounters his late wife on a space station where things have spiraled out of control into a metaphysical conundrum. George Clooney plays Dr. Chris Kelvin, a psychologist beckoned to convince the station's crew to come home. What he finds there takes him far beyond the boundaries of his science and into the realm of the supernatural as he must come to grips with the appearance of his wife who committed suicide years earlier. Natascha McElhone, Jeremy Davies and Viola Davis co-star in this "example of sophisticated, challenging filmmaking" (L.A. Times). Based on the book by Stanislaw Lem.

7:40PM ET/6:40 C
Freshening Up

TV14 Time: 20  
An anniversary dinner turns disastrous for a young woman and her jealous boyfriend in this short film. Adrian Grenier (A.I.) stars as the untrusting young man whose girlfriend (Gretchen Mol) returns from a long restroom visit looking disheveled. He fears she's just had sex with another man...but he couldn't be more off base!

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
Unlawful Entry

R Time: 111  
A break-in...a knife-wielding intruder...Michael and Karen thought their troubles were over when the cops arrived. But one of the officers is a psycho who becomes obsessed with Karen--and does everything in his power to destroy their life together! Kurt Russell and Madeleine Stowe star in this suspense thriller as the couple under siege. Ray Liotta plays their tormentor.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
The Transporter

PG13 Time: 92  
He will transport anything for anyone, and he operates under three simple rules, the most important of which is to never look in the package. Jason Statham (Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels) stars as the former Special Forces operative who runs an unscrupulous criminal delivery enterprise. When he breaks his cardinal rule by opening a bag that contains a beautiful young woman, Martin's conscience gets put to the test...until the Chinese human slave importers he's dealing with come calling on him with bullets instead of cash! Shu Qi and Francois Berleand co-star. Directed by Corey Yuen.

11:35PM ET/10:35 C
Marilyn Chambers' Naked Fairy Tales

TVMA Time: 53  
Marilyn Chambers conjures up a series of the sexiest fairy tale fantasies in this erotic tale that features sizzling interpretations of Cinderella, Snow White, Pinocchio, Little Red Riding Hood, and other stories. With Veronica, Nicholas W. Taylor, Raven and Veronica Foxx. Directed by Eric Drake.

12:30AM ET/11:30 C
Erotic Confessions 34: Masquerade

TVMA Time: 23  
Erotic fires burn hot when a sexy author's fans write her letters detailing their sexual experiences in this sizzling adult series.

1:00AM ET/12:00 C
I Spy

PG13 Time: 96  
Eddie Murphy and Owen Wilson team up as the classic mismatched spy duo who must retrieve a valuable stolen aircraft from an international felon in this comical remake of the hit TV show. Murphy and Wilson reprise the roles made famous by Bill Cosby and Robert Culp as the international espionage partners who pursue global villains for the U.S. government. When the President reports a vital U.S. Stealth plane called the Switchblade stolen, Kelly Robinson (Murphy), a suave boxing champ, is paired with Alex Scott (Wilson) a socially awkward, but bright government agent to find the criminals and recover the high-tech jet. Co-starring Famke Janssen and Malcolm McDowell. Directed by Betty Thomas; based on a story by Marianne Wibberley & Cormac Wibberley; screenplay by Marianne Wibberley & Cormac Wibberley and Jay Scherick & David Ronn.

2:40AM ET/1:40 C
Dancing At The Blue Iguana

R Time: 123  
Exotic dancers at a strip club come to terms with their lives and ambitions in this largely improvised drama from director Michael Radford (Il Postino). From a troubled newcomer (Charlotte Ayanna) to a veteran (Sheila Kelley) with a past that comes back to haunt her, the dancers negotiate with the management of the club, at the same time managing their own happiness and futures. Angel (Daryl Hannah) wants to become a foster mother. Jo (Jennifer Tilly) is a tough dancer who is shaken up by an unexpected pregnancy. And Sandra Oh (HBO's Arli$$) gives "the film's best performance" (Hollywood Reporter) as Jasmine, who discovers her independence as a poet in a local coffeehouse. Screenplay by Radford and David Linter.

4:45AM ET/3:45 C
The Transporter

PG13 Time: 92  
He will transport anything for anyone, and he operates under three simple rules, the most important of which is to never look in the package. Jason Statham (Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels) stars as the former Special Forces operative who runs an unscrupulous criminal delivery enterprise. When he breaks his cardinal rule by opening a bag that contains a beautiful young woman, Martin's conscience gets put to the test...until the Chinese human slave importers he's dealing with come calling on him with bullets instead of cash! Shu Qi and Francois Berleand co-star. Directed by Corey Yuen.
 

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6:30AM ET/5:30 C
Tall Tale

PG Time: 96  
A little boy whose father is being threatened by an evil land baron is surprised to find himself in a magical world where he meets an unlikely group of allies--Pecos Bill, Paul Bunyan, John Henry and Calamity Jane. Scott Glenn, Oliver Platt, Nick Stahl, Stephen Lang and Roger Aaron Brown co-star. Also with Catherine O'Hara and Patrick Swayze. Directed by Jeremiah Chechik, written by Steven L. Bloom and Robert Rodat.

8:15AM ET/7:15 C
Steel

PG13 Time: 97  
Basketball star Shaquille O'Neal scores big-time as the champion of might and right in the neighborhood. With a heart of gold, a vest of steel and an ironclad stash of secret weapons, he's out to wipe up the seamier side of L.A.--and that means every terrorist, gangster, punk and sleazebag on the block. Based on the popular D.C. Comics(R) superhero. With Annabeth Gish, Richard Roundtree, Judd Nelson.

11:00AM ET/10:00 C
12:00PM ET/11:00 C
Lalee's Kin: The Legacy Of Cotton:America Undercover

TVPG Time: 89  
For as long as she can remember, LaLee Wallace's family has picked cotton. It's the main reason why they continue to live in poverty, but as this great-grandmother and her family know, the legacy of cotton is not an easy one to shake. Nominated for a 2001 Best Documentary Feature Oscar(R), this poignant, compelling film follows three generations of African Americans from the Mississippi Delta as they live with extreme poverty and illiteracy. Paralleling LaLee's struggle is Reggie Barnes, the superintendent of the West Tallahatchie schools, who is trying to raise school standards, attract qualified teachers and acquire supplies.

1:30PM ET/12:30 C
Scooby-doo

PG Time: 86  
Mystery mutt Scooby-Doo and his human pals from the beloved cartoon series are brought to dazzling life in this "fast, frenetic and funny" (Variety) live-action feature. The adventure begins as the Mystery Inc. gang--hunky dope Fred, sexy maiden-in-distress Daphne, brainy, but nerdy Velma, ultra-hip 'fraidy cat Shaggy and, of course, Scooby-Doo--reunite for a spooky new adventure involving a ghostly series of events at a haunted-house-themed amusement park. Before you can say "Zoinks, Scoob," the meddling mystery mavens have the not-so-supernatural bad guys on the run in this hilarious adventure. With Matthew Lillard, Freddie Prinze Jr., Sarah Michelle Gellar, Linda Cardellini and Rowan Atkinson.

3:00PM ET/2:00 C
Hot To Trot

PG Time: 83  
Take it right from the horse's mouth: the four-legged star of this frisky comedy has all the best lines. But Don the Horse's human co-stars do their best to keep up! Comic Bob Goldthwait inherits Don as well as half a stock brokerage--and Don's inside info has them riding high. But sleazy stepdad Dabney Coleman has a scheme to ruin them! Bales of fun featuring John Candy as the voice of Don.

4:30PM ET/3:30 C
Great Balls Of Fire!

PG13 Time: 107  
Dennis Quaid shakes nerves and rattles brains in this piano-quaking, music-slaking biography of early rock-'n'-roll bad boy Jerry Lee Lewis. Winona Ryder co-stars as the music legend's 13-year-old cousin whom he married, causing a scandal that nearly derailed his career for good. Also with Alec Baldwin, Lisa Blount and Trey Wilson. Directed by Jim McBride; written by McBride and Jack Baran. "Brash, bold and broad" (Newsweek).

6:15PM ET/5:15 C
Steel

PG13 Time: 97  
Basketball star Shaquille O'Neal scores big-time as the champion of might and right in the neighborhood. With a heart of gold, a vest of steel and an ironclad stash of secret weapons, he's out to wipe up the seamier side of L.A.--and that means every terrorist, gangster, punk and sleazebag on the block. Based on the popular D.C. Comics(R) superhero. With Annabeth Gish, Richard Roundtree, Judd Nelson.

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
Daredevil

PG13 Time: 103  
Left blinded by a childhood accident and orphaned by a vicious crime boss, Matt Murdock (Affleck) has grown up with a single goal in mind: revenge. Based on the classic Marvel Comics character created by Stan Lee and Bill Everett comes this action-drama that follows the adventures of Murdock--a crime-fighting New York City lawyer by day and a masked superhero named Daredevil by night. Led by his ultra-enhanced remaining senses and his incredible acrobatic abilities, Murdock exacts vigilante justice on evildoers who escape the system...while vowing to hunt down the elusive crime lord Kingpin (Michael Clarke Duncan). Jennifer Garner (TV's Alias) and Colin Farrell (Phone Booth) co-star. Written and directed by Mark Steven Johnson (Simon Birch).

10:15PM ET/9:15 C
Monster's Ball

R Time: 111  
A series of tragedies ignites an explosive love affair in this drama for which Halle Berry won the 2002 Academy Award(R) for Best Actress. Leticia (Berry) is a tough waitress and mother about to lose her convict husband to the death penalty. Hank (Billy Bob Thornton) is the middle member of three generations of prison guards, all living together in a house seething with unhappiness. Hardened by his work, Hank falls somewhere in between his viciously racist father (Peter Boyle) and his sensitive, motherless son (Heath Ledger). Hank and Leticia meet first as waitress and customer in a diner, but they grow closer in their mutual need for sympathy and understanding, unaware of a terrible tie that binds them. With Sean Combs, Mos Def. Directed by Marc Forster. Written by Milo Addica, Will Rokos.

12:10AM ET/11:10 C
The Sweetest Thing

R Time: 84  
Cameron Diaz is dazzlingly ditzy in this hilarious, bodily-fluid-filled comedy about a sexy party girl's journey (with the help of her two equally dim pals) to find the handsome stranger she met at a nightclub...and who might just be her Mr. Right. The handsome hunk is supposed to be attending a wedding, but when the trio finally finds him, they make an alarming discovery--it's his wedding! Christina Applegate (TV's Married...With Children) and Selma Blair (Legally Blonde) co-star in this comic raunch-fest from director Roger Kumble (Cruel Intentions).

1:40AM ET/12:40 C
Militia

R Time: 88  
A U.S. militia armed with enough anthrax-laden missiles to wipe out a major city begins rolling on a coup d'etat that will include assassinating the President in this powerful action-thriller. Dean Cain stars as a federal agent given the undercover assignment of infiltrating the group...and putting their devious plan on ice! Also with Jennifer Beals, Frederic Forrest and Stacy Keach.

3:15AM ET/2:15 C
Devil In The Flesh

TVMA Time: 88  
Hell hath no fury like a bad girl scorned. Ask Debbie's crazed grandmother. Ask her stormy love rival. Ask the drop-dead gorgeous teacher who rejected her amorous advances. It's not that Debbie throws teen temper tantrums, it's just that she'd rather kill than take "no" for an answer. Homicide never takes a holiday when Debbie's around. Rose McGowan stars.

4:50AM ET/3:50 C
Daredevil

PG13 Time: 103  
Left blinded by a childhood accident and orphaned by a vicious crime boss, Matt Murdock (Affleck) has grown up with a single goal in mind: revenge. Based on the classic Marvel Comics character created by Stan Lee and Bill Everett comes this action-drama that follows the adventures of Murdock--a crime-fighting New York City lawyer by day and a masked superhero named Daredevil by night. Led by his ultra-enhanced remaining senses and his incredible acrobatic abilities, Murdock exacts vigilante justice on evildoers who escape the system...while vowing to hunt down the elusive crime lord Kingpin (Michael Clarke Duncan). Jennifer Garner (TV's Alias) and Colin Farrell (Phone Booth) co-star. Written and directed by Mark Steven Johnson (Simon Birch).
 

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6:15AM ET/5:15 C
Texas Rangers

WIDESCREEN OAR UPCONV
Surround / CCAP
PG13 1h 30m
In lawless 1875 Texas, a determined gunfighter (Dylan McDermott) organizes the Texas Rangers to take on the power of the crime lord known as John King Fisher (Alfred Molina) in this blazing Western adventure costarring James Van Der Beek, Rachael Leigh Cook, Ashton Kutcher, Usher Raymond, Robert Patrick, Randy Travis, Vincent Spano and Tom Skerritt.

11:30AM ET/10:30 C
The Wishing Tree

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Surround / CCAP
TVG 1h 42m
Alfre Woodard stars in this moving family drama as attorney Clara Collier, who returns home to her rural Georgia roots when her mother (Mary Alice), a local storyteller, passes away. Clara reunites with the family that once took the Colliers in during hard times, and discovers that local tales of a "magic man" who guides lost travelers back to safety from the dense forest might be true. Blair Underwood, Leslie Carlson, Helen Shaver, Stephen Joffe and Kaleigh Nevin costar in this tale of healing and hope.

1:15PM ET/12:15 C
K-19: The Widowmaker

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
PG13 2h 19m
Harrison Ford and Liam Neeson star in this gripping, fact-based action drama about the crew of a crippled Russian submarine - the communist country's first nuclear vessel, and one that's nearing a meltdown that could spark a worldwide conflagration at the height of the Cold War. Kathryn Bigelow ("Near Dark") directed this taut thriller costarring Peter Sarsgaard and Joss Ackland.

3:35PM ET/2:35 C
Texas Rangers

WIDESCREEN OAR UPCONV
Surround / CCAP
PG13 1h 30m
In lawless 1875 Texas, a determined gunfighter (Dylan McDermott) organizes the Texas Rangers to take on the power of the crime lord known as John King Fisher (Alfred Molina) in this blazing Western adventure costarring James Van Der Beek, Rachael Leigh Cook, Ashton Kutcher, Usher Raymond, Robert Patrick, Randy Travis, Vincent Spano and Tom Skerritt.

5:05PM ET/4:05 C
Die Another Day

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
PG13 2h 13m
The 20th film in the series of James Bond spy thrillers finds Agent 007 (Pierce Brosnan) up against a sinister business tycoon and a disfigured North Korean officer in the race to stop the deployment of a powerful orbital laser. Halle Berry, Rick Yune, Toby Stephens, John Cleese and Rosamund Pike costar in this stylish, breathlessly-paced corker of an action flick from director Lee Tamahori ("The Edge," "Along Came a Spider")..

7:25PM ET/6:25 C
Jeepers Creepers

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
R 1h 31m
Gina Philips ("Boston Public") and Justin Long ("Ed") star in this terrifying horror yarn as siblings on a road trip home from college who become hunted by a supernatural, cannibalistic legend from which even the police and a psychic cannot protect them. Patricia Belcher, Brandon Smith and Eileen Brennan costar.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
Mitchell vs. N'dou

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Stereo / CCAP
No Rating 2h 0m
No Description Available.

2:05AM ET/1:05 C
The Little Mermaid

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
TV14 - SLD 45 m
In the third season premiere, Chris disregards Mona's advice about an extra $20 he accidentally receives at the bank, leading to her disappearance from her lair.

4:30AM ET/3:30 C
The Wishing Tree

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Surround / CCAP
TVG 1h 42m
Alfre Woodard stars in this moving family drama as attorney Clara Collier, who returns home to her rural Georgia roots when her mother (Mary Alice), a local storyteller, passes away. Clara reunites with the family that once took the Colliers in during hard times, and discovers that local tales of a "magic man" who guides lost travelers back to safety from the dense forest might be true. Blair Underwood, Leslie Carlson, Helen Shaver, Stephen Joffe and Kaleigh Nevin costar in this tale of healing and hope.
 

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