HDTV Has a Social Calling: What Should the Soul of HDTV Programming Be?

One of the reasons I founded this publication was to swing open a public debate on the entire estate of television. Everything is changing with this transition to digital and we might as well see if we can shape the outcome to our liking. This is good for both program providers and audiences alike because when we are served well with our desires, the servant thrives. Programmers spend huge sums trying to understand us and make choices based on what we say we want. There are as many focus groups as there are television hours.

But today we see that some of the decisions for providing our family entertainment no longer have the same "standards and practices" that Jack Benny used when he strolled out on CBS. But it is also not the 50s nor 60s. We are an advancing civilization in very complex ways (as a direct result of communications) and we ought to see that our contemporary souls are represented by our program provider's choices, especially now that we have entered the high impact era of HDTV. To my knowledge the public has never had its voice very well heard by the television managers of the nation other than through ratings, which is not entirely a faulty method. But we have never had a clear verbal say to them directly about what we expect from our national television services--a sort of mission statement from the public, as it were. I don't want to suggest here that whatever we want is not found in the television of today. It is unquestionably available through a plethora of program options. So, it would be wrong to say that our cup of tea is not already warmed and waiting for us. You may have to buy it from a satellite, a cable, or in a box, but it's there. Someone is always serving the taste and expectations of their target audience. Those all taken together represent just about everyone...we think. What we don't know is what it is we truly want from of our HDTV services. We know that we like sports. We prove time and again we want movies, the better ones at least. But what do we want from the original programming side of television? What is the soul of the television of the future? Do we want more of what has already been sent to us for years? Or is there a new category of programming which has yet to be created and explored? I must say that I lean to the later, but not everyone does. Some love the familiar. Mark Cuban's move to the evergreens and restoring them is brilliant. 

Take a moment and tell the network heads, at lest those who follow us, here in our pages, what you would like to see/experience and what you would support. I emphasize support for there is  no sense in asking for something we don't have the will to pay for in whatever manner it is charged to us. And don't be dishonest about it. There is nothing wrong with liking the idea of the Janet Jackson All Nude Shakespeare Review if that is what rings your bell. But nothing can be more confounding than a verbal description of a program that you want people to think that you like instead of the one you really would watch. Ratings don't lie but they can only tally what is being produced and delivered. New programming takes a concept, and I am not sure all concepts about HDTV programming have been expressed and explored. In fact, I am sure they have not. I want you to dig deep down and not say too much about it until you see in your mind's eye the kind of programming you would respond to. We are not all artist, Not everyone wants sports. But we are all human. Some common chord can always be found in that fact and translated into programming. There is more than one channel, of course, and so many threads of the same chord may be represented. But are there any ideas that would lead to union more than division? Abraham Lincoln staked the nation's future on the value he placed upon a union. What value should we place on union and is there a way to achieve more union through programming? Will we be better off for it, or not?

I suppose I am in danger of stepping off into the esoteric with this next idea, but I will risk it. We can call this one of those 'cigar and brandy' after hours thoughts. I doubt I will mention it again so directly. I don't want to come off as moon struck. I personally take to hard reality more than to fanciful dreams but I would not shrink from taking a beautiful dream to the point of it being a hard reality. But here is something to ponder, and likely better so after a  'brandy' or two. I know we all love our HDTVs. It's truly remarkable how many people tell me just that in those exacting words. It is the one single clarifying thing about it. "Oh, you love HDTV. No wonder you are willing to blow down your NTSC world and shell out $200 billion for HD." It just answers everything very clearly because we know what people will do for what they love. It is not always rational, but it is always with a purpose. I don't get a single email from a new owner who doesn't open or close their message without saying "I love HDTV." Is it possible that the programming can complete the loop and love the viewers back? I hope you don't dismiss this question as a sappy shallow attempt at fermenting emotional blather but rather take it to its most profound level. We may make light of the idea of love but take it out of your family and see how lightly you take it. Shouldn't we be more attracted to the "ones" who love (and I leave the interpretation of that term to you) us through their choice of programs? Or must everything remain a business exploitation of our baser qualities. Our baseness is always with us, love or no love. O.K., let's sober up. I don't mean to take this too far. Maybe at best it is one of those ideas you let roll around in the back of your mind to pull up again for a reference when needed. I will say, however, that entertainers and artists are seldom in their craft for the money alone but rather for the love of their audience. I think HDTV is going to enhance this relationship. What do you think? _Dale

It was this article from the Washington Post (below) that led to this question above.

By Jeremy Pelofsky and Susan Cornwell

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Outraged by how salacious programs on radio and network television have become in recent months, lawmakers vowed on Wednesday to look at indecent shows on cable and satellite channels.

Senate Commerce Committee Chairman John McCain urged cable and satellite companies to offer parents the ability to pick and choose what channels they get so they can protect their children from violence, sex and profanity, an idea that resonated with other lawmakers and regulators.

Federal regulators and lawmakers have sought to sharply increase fines for bad behavior on over-the-air television and radio stations after a rash of incidents, from the exposure of pop singer Janet Jackson's bare breast to foul language on the radio encouraging sexual violence against women.

The concept is "more persuasive than ever in providing parents control over their television sets," McCain, an Arizona Republican, said during a hearing that was called before the Jackson incident.

But lawmakers also heard that federal power to enforce decency standards on subscription cable and satellite service was limited compared to material on the public broadcast airwaves.

"It seems interesting that we say ... if it's on just a higher channel number, which you can get just by clicking your channel changer, we're going to ignore it and not pay attention to it," Sen. John Breaux, a Louisiana Democrat, said.

"We ought to look at the whole spectrum of what we get over our televisions," he said.

The Federal Communications Commission was inundated with complaints after Jackson's performance at the Feb. 1 halftime show of the NFL's Super Bowl. All the parties involved, Viacom Inc.'s CBS and MTV networks, as well as the performers and the NFL, apologized for the incident.

Viacom President Mel Karmazin pledged to use technology to briefly delay airing live events to prevent further incidents, but raised a note of caution that taking more drastic action could end live events altogether.

"With an enhanced system in place, some celebrities in fact may believe they can do and say anything based on the assumption that the network will catch the inappropriate-for-broadcast behavior before it airs," he told the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

The panel has been holding a series of hearings on the issue and this time decided to focus on the Jackson incident and pending legislation to increase indecency fines.

While Congress and the FCC have proposed sharply boosting fines, FCC commissioners have called for the return of a family hour on prime-time television, tape and audio delay systems to ensure indecent behavior is excised from live events and to consider revoking broadcast licenses for repeat offenders.

"Absolutely the combination of what packages you get and what rights you have to block programming are the right places to look," FCC Chairman Michael Powell told lawmakers. But, "you can't just easily take the broadcast model and roll it over to cable."

McCain said that legislation may be necessary. Powell said the courts have held that cable and satellite companies enjoy free-speech protections more like a newspaper.

The agency recently proposed fining several Clear Channel Communications radio stations for violations and is on the verge of taking action against NBC television stations for an expletive uttered during the 2003 Golden Globe Awards show.

Federal rules bar the airing of obscene material and limits indecent material, often defined as involving sexual organs or activities, to late-night broadcast television and radio.

Karmazin said that increasing fines could put small broadcasters out of business and instead the agency should provide better guidelines for broadcast indecency.

(Additional reporting by Andy Sullivan in Washington.)

READER MAIL....

Some responses to the Academy of Digital Television Pioneers nominations wich we forwarded to you yesterday.

Dale, thanks so much for forwarding that list.  Impressive.  And much appreciated.  You are simply the greatest and I don't know what we HD buffs would do without you.  Please keep up the superb work you do!!!

Give Jeff and Scott a pat on the back too. You are about to see what young folks can do for you and we have a great generation coming up if they don't verve off track. _Dale

I have no idea if this will ever get to anyone who reads it, but here goes...

re: the HDTV awards

Best DTV Leadership(retailer)

If Best Buy, Circuit City or Sears is what we call leadership, then I think we're all in for a bumpy ride.  Surely a more worthy and deserving retailer could have been found.  Perhaps someone who actually understands HDTV should be a prerequisite for nomination...

 

-Landon Hollander

Well, you have to give the credit for making some progress. _Dale

Just wanted to express my outrage that Mr. Cripps has not been recognized for keeping us all informed and helping to make sense of all the twists and turns this technology has made. Here's my vote for the " helping HD get where it is today" nomination.

 

Go Dale Go.......

 

Anthony Setters

Satellite/Home Theater Retailer

Thanks for the kind words, Anthony. I was granted that honor last year and have done little in 2003 to earn it again, but this year I see more reason to step out. Maybe someone will remember us. _Dale

The COMING SATURDAY

Saturday, February 14 at 8:30/ 7:30c

Starring Julie Andrews, Anne Hathaway, Hector Elizondo, Heather Matarazzo, Mandy Moore, Caroline Goodall, Robert Schwartzman, Erik von Detten and Patrick Flueger.

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9:00PM ET/8:00 C
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation

No Description Available.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
Without a Trace

"Wannabe"
Malone and the team try to find a 12-year-old boy who was last seen in the boysÂ’ bathroom at his school where his blood is found on a mirror shattered during an apparent scuffle.
 

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9:59PM ET/8:59 C
ER

"Impulse Control"
Life and death assume an even higher profile as single-mother Sam (Linda Cardellini) treats an abused and newly pregnant teen (guest star Rheagan Wallace) as well as a wife (guest star Marin Hinkle) who sees her injured family melt away after a car accident -- while Dr. Carter (Noah Wyle) takes a holiday to show Kem (guest star Thandie Newton, "Mission: Impossible 2") the wonders of a wintry Chicago. Elsewhere, a risk-assessment expert (guest star Richard Kline) is hired to observe the E.R. and is shocked at the abounding mayhem -- especially when Sam roughs up a patient's friend. Abby (Maura Tierney) and Dr. Pratt (Mekhi Phifer) restrain an undocumented man (guest star F.J. Rio) who wants to check out despite testing positive for tuberculosis while Sam is quizzed by her son Alex (guest star Oliver Davis) about her interest in Dr. Kovac (Goran Visnjic). Laura Innes, Sherry Stringfield, Sharif Atkins and Parminder Nagra also star.
 

11:34PM ET/10:34 C
The Tonight Show With Jay Leno

Clint Eastwood,

Charles Barkley

shelby Lynne

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NO HDTV TONIGHT

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6:00AM ET/5:00 C
Art Forms Of The Orient

"Episode 1"
In Japan the line between art and life is often hard to determine. Discover the patience and dedication it takes to create traditional Japanese art forms and how cultural values are such a strong influence.

7:00AM ET/6:00 C
Extreme Machines: Oil Rig

An oil rig is a monster extreme machine. Thousands of tons of steel are welded together to form a platform on legs above the sea. Underneath, a gigantic pump plunges through the water, penetrating the earth's crust to extract a valuable resource, oil.

8:00AM ET/7:00 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.

10:00AM ET/9:00 C
Before We Ruled The Earth: Hunt Or Be Hunted

1,700,000 million years ago in Africa, Homo ergaster, an ancient predecessor of modern humans had to scavenge to survive. They lived in the elements, and among the monsters of the day, like the sabretooth cat.

11:00AM ET/10:00 C
Art Forms Of The Orient

"Episode 1"
In Japan the line between art and life is often hard to determine. Discover the patience and dedication it takes to create traditional Japanese art forms and how cultural values are such a strong influence.

12:00PM ET/11:00 C
A Wedding Story

"Marni & Praveen"
No Description Available.

12:30PM ET/11:30 C
A Makeover Story

"Flameworthy Awards"
No Description Available.

1:00PM ET/12:00 C
Surprise By Design

"Above And Beyond"
Barry Bain and his wife, Lee Anne, have been married for 11 years, but Lee Anne's medical problems have put the burden of work and family on Barry. Lee Anne wants to reward Barry with a front porch makeover that will give him a place to play and relax.

2:00PM ET/1:00 C
Weird Homes

"Sacred Space"
Connecticut's Sal Verdi turned a personal vision into a sanctuary open to all. Cevan Forrisst's San Jose home and "ungarden" is a monument to tranquility and meditation. And Michael Dennis' Gulf Island acreage pays homage to ancestors he's never known.

2:30PM ET/1:30 C
Weird Wheels

"Best In Show"
Every April Houston,Texas hosts the wildest collection of wheels out there during the annual World Art Car Parade. Over 150 bizarre vehicles such as the Fruitmobile and the Cathedral Hearse take over the streets.

3:00PM ET/2:00 C
Insectia

"Scorpions"
Head to the Sahara desert to examine the 1400 species of scorpions deep in its sands. Divided into nine main families, only 25 are strong enough to kill a human and even then they strike only when their pincers cannot overwhelm their prey.

3:30PM ET/2:30 C
Great Canadian Rivers

"Miramichi, The"
The Miramichi, the largest producer of Atlantic Salmon in North America forms a 13,000 square kilometer watershed spread out over a quarter of New Brunswick. The Miramichi valley is dotted with small settlements that have thrived for centuries.

4:00PM ET/3:00 C
Extreme Machines: Oil Rig

An oil rig is a monster extreme machine. Thousands of tons of steel are welded together to form a platform on legs above the sea. Underneath, a gigantic pump plunges through the water, penetrating the earth's crust to extract a valuable resource, oil.

5:00PM ET/4:00 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.

7:00PM ET/6:00 C
Urban Wild

"Paris"
Some of the most spectacular monuments in Paris, the Opera and the Arc de Triumphe, are new residential units for the cities wildlife. Examine the creatures such as birds of prey and rabbits that thrive in the City of Lights.

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
The Jeff Corwin Experience

"The Big Bad Wolf?"
Wild experiences with a guy who loves adventure as much as he loves wild animals. A television series with a goal...to explore the planet in search of the most fantastic wildlife and wildest adventures before they disappear.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
In Search Of The King Cobra

Herpetologist and adventurer, Austin Stevens takes to the remote jungles of Southern India in pursuit of the world's largest venomous snake, the king cobra! Follow Austin as he tracks, catches and photographs one of these deadly giants.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
Diving With The Great Whales

Each year humpback whales migrate 10,000 kilometers from sunny Baja California to the icy waters of Alaska. Witness the incredible journey by these great mammals to experience their lives from mating rituals to foraging for food.

11:00PM ET/10:00 C
The Jeff Corwin Experience

"The Big Bad Wolf?"
Wild experiences with a guy who loves adventure as much as he loves wild animals. A television series with a goal...to explore the planet in search of the most fantastic wildlife and wildest adventures before they disappear.

12:00PM ET/11:00 C
In Search Of The King Cobra

Herpetologist and adventurer, Austin Stevens takes to the remote jungles of Southern India in pursuit of the world's largest venomous snake, the king cobra! Follow Austin as he tracks, catches and photographs one of these deadly giants.

1:00AM ET/12:00 C
Diving With The Great Whales

Each year humpback whales migrate 10,000 kilometers from sunny Baja California to the icy waters of Alaska. Witness the incredible journey by these great mammals to experience their lives from mating rituals to foraging for food.

2:00AM ET/1:00 C
Insectia

"Insects For Sale"
Beyond the scientific uses of entomologists, insects have become part of a complex and sometimes illicit trade. Begin the investigation in the outskirts of Iquitos, Peru where curiosity and controversy can lead to profits.

2:30AM ET/1:30 C
Great Canadian Rivers

"The French"
The French River is one of Canada's most historic waterways, used as a both a travel corridor and trade route. It emerges from Lake Nipissing and travels through the Canadian Shield to the Georgian Bay.

3:00AM ET/2:00 C
The Jeff Corwin Experience

"The Big Bad Wolf?"
Wild experiences with a guy who loves adventure as much as he loves wild animals. A television series with a goal...to explore the planet in search of the most fantastic wildlife and wildest adventures before they disappear.

4:00AM ET/3:00 C
In Search Of The King Cobra

Herpetologist and adventurer, Austin Stevens takes to the remote jungles of Southern India in pursuit of the world's largest venomous snake, the king cobra! Follow Austin as he tracks, catches and photographs one of these deadly giants.

5:00AM ET/4:00 C
Diving With The Great Whales

Each year humpback whales migrate 10,000 kilometers from sunny Baja California to the icy waters of Alaska. Witness the incredible journey by these great mammals to experience their lives from mating rituals to foraging for food.
 

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6:00AM ET/5:00 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.

6:30AM ET/5:30 C
Johnathan Brownlee's atHome

Hello My Name Is... - How to create a winning team involving the key players for a successful home renovation.

7:00AM ET/6:00 C
Wild Secrets

Australian Brush Turkey: Recipe for Success - This is the amazing tale of the Australian brush turkey which hatches its young in a compost heap. It's a unique recipe for parenting success, but perhaps not a craze that will catch on.

7:30AM ET/6:30 C
Tracks Ahead

Cable Cars - One of America's historic treasures is found in San Francisco. The colorful cable car attract not just tourists, but city residents as well. Visit the steam trains of the hundred year old Heber City Railroad in Utah and the Twin Cities Model railroad club.

8:00AM ET/7:00 C
Designing America

Pet Palace - Tour Time is at the home and studio of Dallas Cowboys photographer, Ron St. Angelo. Our Designing American is Kay Crinkelmeyer and the owners of "Pet Palace", Ron & Kathi Sturgeon.

8:30AM ET/7:30 C
Bass Champs

The 2003 Bass Champs Classic on Lake Texoma Day One - 2003 Classic Day One on Lake Texoma. Plus, an interview with triple crown winner Jay Yelas.

9:00AM ET/8:00 C
Higher Definition

Pop-culture writer/host Robert Wilonsky talks horror and HD with critically acclaimed "Cabin Fever" Director, Eli Roth, plus previews of what's coming soon to HDNet Entertainment.

9:30AM ET/8:30 C
Across America

You've heard of car clubs...for Maserati, Jaguar, or Porsche owners. Across America joins a Hearse Club for a cemetery tour in Denver. Then host Ron Kruck takes a leap (or doesn't he?)...bungee jumping in Las Vegas.

10:00AM ET/9:00 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.

11:00AM ET/10:00 C
Johnathan Brownlee's atHome

Boarder Dude - Insulation, fireplaces, the first phase of the Macauley/Clark House restorations begin, and financing options.

11:30AM ET/10:30 C
Square Pegs

Weemaweegate - Class clown Marshall's latest stunt finds him the prime suspect in ace reporters Patty and Lauren's investigation into Weemawee High's scandal-ridden campaign for a new school mascot.

12:00PM ET/11:00 C
HDNet World Report

Liberia: Putting Lives and Families Back Together After the War - World Report travels to war-torn Liberia to witness the devastation of that Nation's war, and the efforts being made to put the country and the country's families back together.

12:30PM ET/11:30 C
HDNet World Report

Israel: The Wall of Division - World Report travels to Israel for the latest news on the never-ending story of religious violence. The latest Israeli attempt to improve their security is a barrier wall being constructed between Arab and Jewish areas. Sadly, It has become more a symbol of strife than of safety.

1:00PM ET/12:00 C
True Music

3 Doors Down may have sold 6 million albums, but they still have time in their busy touring schedule to talk with and perform for True Music. Also on this week's episode you can see the debut of the HD music video done by The Joe Miller Band. Then relax with a musical journey guided by Planet X.

1:30PM ET/12:30 C
Hogan's Heroes

What Time Does the Balloon Go Up? - Hogan outwits the Nazis when he builds a balloon to transport an undercover agent to England.

2:00PM ET/1:00 C
The Fugitive

New Orleans Saints - Kimble takes pity on the One-Armed Man's wife--but she's got a deadly secret.

3:00PM ET/2:00 C
Presidio Med

Cascading - Through a series of flashbacks, the Presidio Med staff reports on the difficult case of Donna Franklin (Heather Paige Kent), Jackie's friend. Donna initially consults Harriet for gynecological problems. However, as Donna's condition worsens unexpectedly, she is passed through General Surgery, Medicine, Oncology and Cardiology.

4:00PM ET/3:00 C
Broadway Remembers

A stylized oral history of New York's most famous street from Bowling Green in lower Manhattan to Washington Heights at the island's northern tip. From charismatic preachers to nightclub bouncers, Philharmonic violinists to street performers, meet the people who have made, and are making, Broadway what it is.

5:00PM ET/4:00 C
Designing America

Pet Palace - Tour Time is at the home and studio of Dallas Cowboys photographer, Ron St. Angelo. Our Designing American is Kay Crinkelmeyer and the owners of "Pet Palace", Ron & Kathi Sturgeon.

5:30PM ET/4:30 C
Hollywood HD

The Directors Guild of America presents its Best Director prize, Drew Barrymore gets her star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame, and an inside look at a modern movie palace, the Arclight Cinema in Hollywood.

6:00PM ET/5:00 C
True Music

Join True Music host Katie Daryl as she catches up with the band Phantom Planet. Currently Phantom Planet is enjoying commercial success because their song "California" is used as the theme for the Fox show, The OC. Also joining True Music this week is 'ally Majestic and Maverick/Reprise recording artists The Rising.

6:30PM ET/5:30 C
Across America

If you've ever dreamed of getting married by an Elvis impersonator, don't miss Across America's inside look at Las Vegas nuptials. And in Fresno, California, co-host Ron Kruck gets a tough lesson in cage fighting.

7:00PM ET/6:00 C
Equal Justice

Opening Farewell - Rogan announces he's resigning to run against Bach. Searls' murder case is thwarted by federal bigwigs.

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

Pilot - Kathleen's partner has a nervous breakdown and she is forced to handle all of her cases, one which includes a suspected thief who turns out to be a murderer.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
Robbery Homicide Division Premiere

A Life of its Own - Two crimes committed in opposite corners of the city draw the attention of Los Angeles' elite detective unit, the Robbery Homicide Division. The first: a shooting outside a Koreatown nightclub. The second: the massacre of a family in Van Nuys.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
Odyssey 5 Premiere

Pilot - A team of astronauts is sent back in time five years in an effort to stop the Earth from being destroyed.

11:40PM ET/10:40 C
Philly

Pilot - Kathleen's partner has a nervous breakdown and she is forced to handle all of her cases, one which includes a suspected thief who turns out to be a murderer.

12:30AM ET/11:30 C
Robbery Homicide Division

A Life of its Own - Two crimes committed in opposite corners of the city draw the attention of Los Angeles' elite detective unit, the Robbery Homicide Division. The first: a shooting outside a Koreatown nightclub. The second: the massacre of a family in Van Nuys.

1:30AM ET/12:30 C
Odyssey 5

Pilot - A team of astronauts is sent back in time five years in an effort to stop the Earth from being destroyed.

3:20AM ET/2:20 C
Forensic Factor

New Forensic Tools - A crowed street on a hot summer's day. Amid dozens of bystanders, a man is shot dead at close range. Unfortunately, no one can recall a single detail about the killer. Ballistic forensics reveal nothing. Just a few years ago, the case would have been closed as unsolved. But today, a new wave of forensic gadgets can help catch the murderer.

3:30AM ET/2:30 C
Wolf Lake

Tastes Like Chicken - When a serial killer strikes again in Wolf Lake after over 30 years, Sheriff Donner and Deputy Molly withhold critical information about the case from John Kanin to keep him from finding out about the town's secret.

4:30AM ET/3:30 C
Big Apple

One - Detectives Mike and Vincent are promoted to the ranks of the FBI in order to catch the murderer of a stripper who was linked to an important FBI case.

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

In Almond Beach along the coast of Barbados features Muscular Conditioning.
 

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7:15AM ET/6:15 C
Sylvester

PG - 1:40
Cast: Melissa Gilbert, Richard Farnsworth, Constance Towers Director: Tim Hunter
A teenage girl works to train a horse for the National Equestrian Trials, all while caring for her younger brothers.

9:00AM ET/8:00 C
The Shawshank Redemption

R - 2:22
Cast: Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton Director: Frank Darabont
Film based on a Stephen King story about a young banker who is wrongly convicted of murdering his wife and sentenced to life in prison.

11:30AM ET/10:30 C
Man In The Wilderness

PG - 1:45
Cast: Richard Harris, John Huston, Prunella Ransome Director: Richard C. Sarafian
A group of men leave their guide to die after a bear attack. When he recovers, he goes out for revenge.

1:15PM ET/12:15 C
Night Moves

R - 1:38
Cast: Gene Hackman, Melanie Griffith, James Woods Director: Arthur Penn
A has-been actress hires a down-on-his luck detective to find her kidnapped daughter.

3:00PM ET/2:00 C
Harper

NR - 2:01
Cast: Paul Newman, Lauren Bacall, Julie Harris Director: Jack Smight
A woman calls on the hot shot detective Harper to investigate the disappearance of her husband.

5:05PM ET/4:05 C
Man In The Wilderness

PG - 1:45
Cast: Richard Harris, John Huston, Prunella Ransome Director: Richard C. Sarafian
A group of men leave their guide to die after a bear attack. When he recovers, he goes out for revenge.

7:00PM ET/6:00 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.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
Power

R - 1:51
Cast: Richard Gere, Juli Christie, Gene Hackman Director: Sidney Lumet
A political media consultant investigates the mystery surrounding his new client who is running for Senator.

11:00PM ET/10:00 C
Shakedown

R - 1:52
Cast: Peter Weller, Sam Elliott, George Loros Director: James Glickenhaus
Two unlikely partners work to stop the corruption in the N.Y.P.D.

12:45AM ET/11:45 C
Power

R - 1:51
Cast: Richard Gere, Juli Christie, Gene Hackman Director: Sidney Lumet
A political media consultant investigates the mystery surrounding his new client who is running for Senator.

2:45AM ET/1:45 C
Shakedown

R - 1:52
Cast: Peter Weller, Sam Elliott, George Loros Director: James Glickenhaus
Two unlikely partners work to stop the corruption in the N.Y.P.D.

4:30AM ET/3:30 C
The Real Cancun

R - 1:36
Cast: Alan, Amber, Ben Director: Rick de Oliveira
Sex and alcohol abound as a group of college students spend their spring break in Cancun.
 

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7:15AM ET/6:15 C
Hollywood Canteen

TVPG Time: 124  
A who's who cast of 1944 Hollywood do their part for the boys overseas in World War II in Delmer Daves's highly entertaining feature set at the armed services haven known as the Hollywood Canteen. Robert Hutton stars as the love-struck serviceman whose pals arrange a phony contest to win him a date with the girl of his dreams, Joan Leslie. Tying it all together are a series of fine performances and musical numbers, including Cole Porter's "Don't Fence Me In," Eddie Cantor and Nora Martin doing "We're Having a Baby (My Baby and Me)" and a hilarious appearance by Jack Benny. The ensemble of Warner Brothers stars includes Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, John Garfield, Peter Lorre and Ida Lupino. "Another smasheroo" (Variety).

9:20AM ET/8:20 C
Eight Legged Freaks

PG13 Time: 99  
No Description Available.

11:00AM ET/10:00 C
Double Team

R Time: 92  
Belgium's muscleman Jean-Claude Van Damme and basketball's bad boy Dennis Rodman are double dynamite in this "action-packed, often campy and colorful amusement park of a movie" (Variety). The thrills begin when super agent Van Damme teams up with outrageous high-tech arms dealer Rodman to take out a ruthless terrorist. This slambang, chase-filled film bristles with all the energy and flash of the best Hong Kong action movies. With Mickey Rourke.

12:35PM ET/11:35 C
Swallow

TVMA Time: 24  
A high-school senior struggling with his classwork is recruited to smuggle drugs across the border from Mexico in this crime-drama. Directed by Frank E. Flowers. Widescreen.

1:00PM ET/12:00 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.

3:00PM ET/2:00 C
Old School

TVMA Time: 91  
Animal House producer Ivan Reitman skewers the frat house life again in this raucous comedy about a trio of aging grads whose longing for the good times of the college party life prompts them to start their own fraternity. Luke Wilson, Will Ferrell and Vince Vaughn star as the wild-and-crazy threesome who join their screwball recruits in boozing, streaking and various other methods of debauchery--while eliciting the wrath of the school's ornery dean. Jeremy Piven (PCU), Ellen Pompeo (Moonlight Mile) and Juliette Lewis (Natural Born Killers) co-star. Directed by Todd Phillips (Road Trip), story by Court Crandall and Todd Phillips & Scot Armstrong, screenplay by Todd Phillips & Scot Armstrong.

4:35PM ET/3:35 C
White Oleander

PG13 Time: 109  
Alison Lohman stars as a teenage girl bounced through the foster care system during her mother's incarceration for murder in this moving drama. Ingrid (Michelle Pfeiffer) poisons her lover and is sent to prison while her daughter Astrid (Lohman) is forced into the state's foster care program. Shuffled through various foster parents including a born-again Christian, a former B-movie star and an eccentric Russian, Astrid is forced to grow up quickly in several families while she also attempts to keep her mother in her life. Based on the novel by Janet Fitch. Co-starring Robin Wright Penn and Renee Zellweger. Directed by Peter Kosminsky.

6:30PM ET/5:30 C
Black Knight

PG13 Time: 95  
Martin Lawrence brings the 'hood into the Middle Ages in this "rip-roaring time-travel comedy" (L.A. Times) that is loosely based on Mark Twain's A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court. Jamal Walker (Lawrence) works for a struggling medieval theme park until a fall into a time warp lands him in f

8:15PM ET/7:15 C
Eight Legged Freaks

PG13 Time: 99  
No Description Available.

10:00PM ET/9:00 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.

12:00AM ET/11:00 C
Lord Of The G-strings

TVMA Time: 87  
A sex-craved Throbbit and her two friends are forced into a quest by the omnipotent wizard Smirnoff to destroy a powerful G-string with mysterious powers in this seductive fantasy. The brave Throbbit, Bildo Saggins, enlists the help of her friends Hornee and Spam through the enchanted woods where they find erotic companionship with various forest creatures--including the renowned Queen Araporn--as they thwart danger on their journey to destroy the G-String. Starring Misty Mundae, Darian Caine, A.J. Khan and Barbara Joyce. Directed by Terry M. West.

1:30AM ET/12:30 C
Erotic Confessions 02: Games People Play/chalk It Up

TVMA Time: 30  
This special features two erotic shorts. In the first, a game of poker takes a sexy turn for some of the pl

2:05AM ET/1:05 C
Caracara

R Time: 92  
Bird-loving museum worker Rachel (Henstridge) becomes an unwitting participant in a plot to assassinate Nelson Mandela in this fast-paced thriller. She prevents the murder, but the hit man (Schaech)--whom she became involved with--escapes and adopts a new look. Still tracking Mandela, the killer adds Rachel to his lethal list of people to slay. Can she lead the police to him before the bullets fly? Also with David McIlwraith and Lauren Hutton (Once Bitten).

3:40AM ET/2:40 C
Point Of No Return

R Time: 108  
Maggie is a beautiful, violent, young cop-killing junkie. When she's caught, she's given a choice: die for her crime or become a government assassin! Bridget Fonda plays Maggie, whose new life brings her a new love...and the hope that she can escape the violence that rules her existence. A stylish, fast-paced drama based on the French thriller, La Femme Nikita. With Anne Bancroft.

5:30AM ET/4:30 C
Eve's Bayou

R Time: 108  
What did little Eve see--and how will it haunt her? Passions as steamy as the Louisiana bayou drape around this acclaimed drama of "extraordinary erotic tension and anxiety" (New York Times). Husband, father and womanizer Samuel L. Jackson is the head of an affluent family, but it's the women who rule this gothic world of secrets, lies and mystic forces.
 

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6:00AM ET/5:00 C
Operation Dumbo Drop

PG Time: 108  
As a well-meaning Green Beret captain (Danny Glover) prepares to retire from his village post in the Vietnam war, he decides to take on one final mission in order to help the peaceful locals. The North Vietnamese have killed the villagers' beloved elephant as a punishment for their friendly relationship with the occupying American soldiers. Captain Cahill realizes that there is only one way to make up for this loss: to find and import a new elephant, by plane, over dangerous war zones. In order to do so, he must enlist his tough successor (Ray Liotta) and an unlikely team of soldiers to replace the giant animal in this "well-crafted and entertaining" (Variety) family comedy based on a true story. With Denis Leary, Doug E. Doug, Corin Nemec.

8:00AM ET/7:00 C
Popeye Doyle

TVPG Time: 94  
Ed O'Neill (TV's Married With Children) stars as French Connection cop Popeye Doyle, whose investigation into the murder of a model leads him to a worldwide drug operation. With Candy Clark.

9:45AM ET/8:45 C
The Fugitive

PG13 Time: 130  
A one-armed man killed Dr. Kimble's wife, but the police think he did it. Now he's got to find the killer before the cops catch him. That's the simple plot of this blockbuster action hit starring Harrison Ford as the doctor on the run and 1993 Best Supporting Actor Oscar(R) winner Tommy Lee Jones as the cop on his trail. "A propulsive mix of action, suspense and humor" (Hollywood Reporter). "A consummate nail biter...it leaves you breathless" (Variety). "A smashing success...a home run" (New York Times).

12:00PM ET/11:00 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.

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
Two Much

PG13 Time: 118  
A professional con artist who moonlights as an art gallery owner juggles a romance with two sisters by creating an alter ego for himself in this delightful comedy. Antonio Banderas stars as Art Dodge, an art gallery owner and compelling liar who cons new widows into believing their deceased beloveds purchased his artwork. Melanie Griffith co-stars as a mobster's ex-wife and Daryl Hannah plays her sister, both of whom Art romances by creating a fictitious twin brother. Co-starring Danny Aiello, Joan Cusack and Eli Wallach. Screenplay by Fernando Trueba and David Trueba based on the novel by Donald Westlak

5:00PM ET/4:00 C
The First $20 Million Is Always The Hardest

PG13 Time: 105  
Set during the dot.com boom of the mid 1990s, this whirling comedy focuses on a frustrated young professional who shakes off the shackles of the marketing world for a chance to make a difference. Andy Caspar sees his opportunity within a Silicon Valley research company where he's relegated to build a $99 computer with the help of a team of misfit geniuses. They amazingly succeed in their efforts, but they soon face another crisis--having their idea stolen by their treacherous boss. "Provides a tantalizing glimpse of what a dot.comedy might look like" (The Onion A.V. Club). With Adam Garcia, Rosario Dawson, Jake Busey and Enrico Colantoni. Directed by Mick Jackson; screenplay by Jon Favreau, Gary Tieche, based on the novel by Po Bronson.

6:45PM ET/5:45 C
The Fugitive

PG13 Time: 130  
A one-armed man killed Dr. Kimble's wife, but the police think he did it. Now he's got to find the killer before the cops catch him. That's the simple plot of this blockbuster action hit starring Harrison Ford as the doctor on the run and 1993 Best Supporting Actor Oscar(R) winner Tommy Lee Jones as the cop on his trail. "A propulsive mix of action, suspense and humor" (Hollywood Reporter). "A consummate nail biter...it leaves you breathless" (Variety). "A smashing success...a home run" (New York Times).

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
Trapped

R Time: 105  
A husband and wife fight back against the ruthless kidnappers who have abducted their daughter in a shrewdly planned ransom scheme. Will and Karen Jennings are the perfect couple whose lives are thrown into tumult when their six-year-old daughter Abby is snatched by cold-blooded criminal Joe Hickey, whose wife Cheryl and cousin Marvin assist him. Their bold plan--holding Abby for ransom, while simultaneously taking her parents hostage in separate locations--seems perfectly devised, but Will and Karen know a few tricks too, leading to a tension-packed finale. With Charlize Theron, Courtney Love and Kevin Bacon. Stuart Townsend and Pruitt Taylor Vince co-star. Directed by Luis Mandoki, based upon the novel 24 Hours by Greg Iles, screenplay by Greg Iles. "A stylishly filmed thriller" (Hollywood Reporter).

11:55PM ET/10:55 C
Unfaithful

R Time: 123  
Diane Lane stars in her 2002 Best Actress Oscar(R)-nominated role as Connie Sumner, a married housewife who is literally blown into a handsome French antique bookseller during a fierce windstorm in Manhattan. The intense chemistry between the two book lovers results in Connie beginning a thrilling, perfidious affair with her French lover. But just as feelings of obsession and guilt begin to consume Connie, her husband grows dangerously suspicious of his wife's fidelity. Based on Claude Chabrol's La Femme Infidele. Richard Gere, Olivier Martinez and Erik Per Sullivan co-star.

2:05AM ET/1:05 C
City By The Sea

R Time: 108  
Robert De Niro excels in this fact-based drama about a seasoned homicide detective who becomes torn between duty and family when his troubled son is suspected of murder. Vincent LaMarca (De Niro) is a cop who believes the punishment should fit the crime, but when a drug dealer's slaying points to LaMarca's strung-out son Joey (James Franco), the lawman struggles to come to grips with the situation. Frances McDormand (Almost Famous) co-stars as LaMarca's occasional lover and confidante. Also with George Dzundza, Patti LuPone, William Forsythe and Eliza Dushku (Wrong Turn).

3:55AM ET/2:55 C
Femme Fatale

R Time: 114  
Brian De Palma's "ingeniously twisty and audaciously twisted" (San Francisco Chronicle) neo-noir thriller stars Rebecca Romijn-Stamos as a dangerous blonde whose picture attracts the attention of a former paparazzo--and exposes her sordid past. Seven years after a daring (and very erotic) jewel heist at the Cannes Film Festival in which she left her partners high and dry, Laure Ash (Romijn-Stamos) returns to Paris under the identity of an U.S. ambassador's wife. But photographer Nicolas Bardo (Antonio Banderas) recognizes her--from a photo he took of her assuming a different alias--and sets into motion a series of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the end! Peter Coyote co-stars.
 

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9:00AM ET/8:00 C
The Triumph of Love

WIDESCREEN OAR UPCONV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
PG13 1h 52m
Clare Peploe's fast-paced and witty adaptation of Pierre Marivaux's 1732 gender-bending romantic comedy features Mira Sorvino as a princess who dons men's clothing to infiltrate a secluded estate. Her goal: to woo the hunky true heir to the throne (Jay Rodan). However, her many disguises bring about countless complications as she also manipulates the amorous desires of both her beloved's stuffy philosophy teacher (Ben Kingsley) and the tutor's dour scientist sister (Fiona Shaw). "Literally dazzling...quelle treat!" - "The Washington Post."

11:00AM ET/10:00 C
A River Runs Through It

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Stereo / CCAP
PG 2h 4m
Director Robert Redford's visually stunning drama is based on the memoir by Norman Maclean (Craig Sheffer), who relates the story of his idyllic Montana upbringing and the wild-hearted, fly-fishing brother (Brad Pitt) who couldn't be tamed by man, religion or nature. Tom Skerritt, Brenda Blethyn, Emily Lloyd and Edie McClurg costar in this critically acclaimed masterpiece.

1:15PM ET/12:15 C

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
R 1h 40m
Forest Whitaker, Jonathan Silverman and Ossie Davis star in this original drama, the true story of brave African-American men from Bogalusa, Louisiana who armed themselves to fight against the KKK, taking a more militant stance than most activists during the Civil Rights movement of the 1960's. Paul Benjamin costars in this film about a lost chapter in U.S. history from director Bill Duke ("Sister Act 2," "A Rage in Harlem").

3:00PM ET/2:00 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.

4:30PM ET/3:30 C
Modern Romance

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
R 1h 34m
Writer and director-star Albert Brooks' second film is a comedy about a neurotic film editor who struggles to maintain a relationship with his girlfriend (Kathryn Harrold) while editing a cheap sci-fi knockoff with his assistant (Bruno Kirby). James L. Brooks costars with George Kennedy and Meadowlark Lemon, who play themselves.

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
Good Fences

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
R 1h 59m
Determined to live the American dream, upwardly mobile black lawyer Tom Spader (Danny Glover) is proud to win a high-profile case and move his family to the white, wealthy enclave of Greenwich, Connecticut. While his wife Mabel (Whoopi Goldberg) has mixed feelings about their new life, Tom's on the fast track to a State Supreme Court appointment - until another African-American family moves into the neighborhood, a presence Tom feels will jeopardize his plans. Mo'nique costars in this original drama.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
A Little Help From My Friends

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
TV14 - LD 45m
Chris is in for a shock when Gloria Estefan arrives to perform with him, but secretly plots to break up his band.

11:00PM ET/10:00 C
Mitchell vs. N'dou

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Stereo / CCAP
2 h 13 m
No Description Available.

3:15AM ET/2:15 C
Crown Heights

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Stereo / CCAP
TVPG - VL 1h 29m
The tragic true story of three days of racial strife, riots and murder in Brooklyn between African-Americans and Hasidic Jews during the sweltering summer of 1991. Sparked by the accidental death of a young child in a car accident, the city erupts in a wave of hate - until two brave community leaders (Mario Van Peebles and Howie Mandel) step forward to quell the unrest with an outreach program that changes lives. Jeremy Blackman and Dequan Henderson costar in this stirring, fact-based family drama.

5:00AM ET/4:00 C
Modern Romance

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
R 1h 34m
Writer and director-star Albert Brooks' second film is a comedy about a neurotic film editor who struggles to maintain a relationship with his girlfriend (Kathryn Harrold) while editing a cheap sci-fi knockoff with his assistant (Bruno Kirby). James L. Brooks costars with George Kennedy and Meadowlark Lemon, who play themselves.
 

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