Reader Response: A Consumer's Frustrating First-Hand Experience Setting Up HDTV with DirecTV

WENESDAY, APRIL 28 2004

 

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STILL ANOTHER GUIDE TO BETTER UNDERSTANDING WHAT YOU ARE BUYING

Buying a digital capable television is an exercise in frustration and anxiety. It's not unlike Alice's trip through the looking glass, surreal and inviting, with promises of digital nirvana and dead-end traps for the unwary consumer. This guide should help you cut through the confusing jargon and conflicting claims. MORE

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Auction items will come to life with HDTV

Milwaukee Public TV is making a bit of local television history with an HDTV airing of its fund-raising auction, likely the first strictly local, live high-def telecast in Milwaukee.

"I hadn't really thought about it in the historical sense," admits MPTV general manager Ellis Bromberg. Channel 10's annual auction runs through Saturday night. MORE

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InFocus Launches Flagship Three-Chip DLP Home Cinema Projector...

Video projectors are become an increasingly popular element in home theaters. Part of this success is a result of DLP (Digital Light Processing) technology, developed by Texas Instruments, which has helped to bring down the price and size of video projectors, without sacrificing performance.

As testament to this, InFocus has announced the release of its new Screenplay 777 DLP video projector. The core of the new 777 are three 16x9 DLP chips with 720p native resolution, for true HDTV compatibility. For more details on the InFocus Screenplay 777, check out the report from Widescreen Review. MORE

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READER RESPONSE

In our news section last week I published an article from a well know engineer who writes incognito  under the name "The Masked Engineer: Mario Orazio." He pens for TV Technology under this pseudonym.

Mario takes full advantage of his anonymity and with impunity takes sharp aim at the television industry for any inconsistency he finds. He has been unable or unwilling to make sense out of the HDTV movement since it is not driven by the usual practical considerations but rather a mystique which he and others fail to see as being a valid as driver. The article in reference--The Meaning of HDTV Ain't Very Clear--can be reviewed here>>click here>

The piece provoked a response to Mario (forwarded to me) from Mr. Bill Haynes. I felt that it should be published because it serves a premonition I have had that we are headed for some difficulties that can be painful if not prepared for. Understanding the sources of frustration found in this story should be an important lesson for those responsible for keeping the HDTV movement at full throttle. We have a long way to go before it is an easy-to-use home appliance, something Mr. Haynes' letter illustrates. The good Samaritan who aided Mr. Haynes in selecting his HDTV is himself a noted television engineer (James Mandrala, NBC-retired) who participated in all of the important committees that put HDTV together.

 Now Mr. Haynes' letter addressed to Mario Orazio:

Hi: Enjoyed your piece, "The Meaning of HDTV Ain't Very Clear".

Now what I'm about to tell you is not going to surprise you, but I gotta unload on somebody.

Several months ago my good friend Jim Mendrala aided me in selecting an HDTV capable, top o' the line, video box; a Samsung DLPTV HLN4365W. While we were at it, I also bought a DVD player; a Sony DVP NS4425P. And I kept our Panasonic VHS video cassette recorder while waiting for my wallet to recover a bit before buying a TIVO or equivalent. And a nice stand upon which to proudly mount my $4,400 investments.

Our gated area (275 residences) had agreed to contract with Direct TV here in LA, and I was anxious for that to happen. In due time a lot of people showed up and began to run wires all over our homes (we have sets of two residences that are joined at the hip) and install dishes with three feeds on one of the three roofs. It was explained that the three feeds were to be able to pick up satellites at slightly different longitudes, and not to provide a separate feed to each home. But each antenna was servicing three homes.

One day this late-period teen ager showed up right on time and began to hook up my boxes to the newly installed cables. I could hardly wait! Any minute now I would be seeing high def stuff on that 43 in., 16 by 9 screen. He whipped out a Hughes digital satellite receiver HIRD-E11, or -E25 (that's what it says on the Manual; I can't find out which by looking at the box). When all of this was connected I waited with great anticipation for the denouement. I'm still waiting.

After another visit in which the over-age teenager said that if I really wanted to record on my tape recorder he would just hook up to the old Cox Cable line. Now we are supposed to drop Cox, who have been our previous contract provider, but they kindly consented to continue serving us until end of May. Originally we were to have lost Cox on 5 April, but as Direct's installation contractor, Rainbow, has even now only been able to wire up about half of us, we would indeed be in trouble without Cox. We've also received a nice letter from Cox explaining that it is still not too late to retain them and their HDTV option. So that's why they have not cut us off ... they know what's happening and hope some of us will say to Hell with this and decide to go back to them. I may yet be one who does that, although I'd be paying double, as we pay for the TV feed in our monthly home owner's fee, and that's now DirecTV.

But now comes the best part.

Each box has its own remote control. Now you knew that and were wondering when I was going to get around to mentioning it. And each remote has its own manual. And they each have their own nomenclature. And a couple of them claim that they can take over operation of other than their very own box. Yeah, sure. Sometimes, partially and depending upon the order in which things are selected. Now I've an undergraduate degree in engineering and a graduate degree in management, and I have yet to be able to figure out how those four remotes concatenate to work those four boxes. I have decided that the manuals are just confusing, and have begun to use the Columbus system. That's where you just discover a key and land on it. Then you watch what happens, or fails to happen. Do that often enough (and NOT when you are desperately trying to watch your favorite TV show) and you gradually generate a primitive, almost instinctive (don't think about it or you are lost) familiarity with some of the functions on each. I've now acquired sufficient skill to be able to switch between the boxes most of the time, though I sometimes get into a do loop, where I'm just repeating a cycle and achieving nothing. I was triumphant when I finally was able to get the VCR to record a couple of my favorite programs, using Cox, of course. I'm now terrified that when Cox cuts us off, I will have to start all over again.

Oh yes, and HDTV; have I got it? You must be kidding! That takes another box, of course. Presumably a replacement (for several hundred dollars) of the box we have now. So what have I bought for $4,400 ? Not HDTV. I've bought hope. I hope that I may yet live to see true HDTV in my very own living room any time I wish and with the ability to select any function, any time, reliably. Meanwhile when I get home and switch it on, and switch it on, an switch it on, and finally switch the last one on, and make sure that the VCR recorder is on channel 3, and that it is "off" so that it recorded my favorite program while I was gone, and I turn it on and check the footage counter and, yes, it shows that recording took place, so I rewind it and push "play" on the VCR remote and lo, it starts up ... and it is all hash. It tried to record a program on the satellite feed, or the VCR was not ... I really don't know. All that's certain is that my instincts failed me. The worst part is that I have learned absolutely nothing and I may do the same thing next time. It seems that the only way I can be sure I'm recording what I wish, when I wish is to wait until a few minutes before the program starts, record a bit and check to see that it's working, then return to the condition that worked, if I can, and ... Hell, I might just as well watch it now.

There's really only one real advantage to having DirecTV so far... the porno channels. They seem to come in great, at $9.99 each.

_Bill Haynes

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Were we all to be satisfied with one channel and didn't want to record it nor operate it the set from our lounge chair none of this confusion would be engineered into these products. We may have created the monster ourselves._Dale

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8:00PM ET/7:00 C
My Wife and Kids

"The Director"
In his excitement to tape a basketball game, Michael accidentally records over a home video of Kady's first steps, which happens to be one of Jay's most cherished family moments. When Jay decides to have a family home movie night, Michael must act quickly and enlists Franklin's help to reenact that moment of Kyle family history.

8:30PM ET/7:30 C
My Wife and Kids

"He's Having a Baby"
Despite their best efforts, Michael and Jay are still concerned that Jr. has no idea of what being a father entails. So, to test his readiness for parenthood, they decide to give him a water balloon that he must treat as a real baby and which they have nicknamed a "balloonaby."

CBS DAYTIME

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
The King Of Queens

"Cheap Saks"
When Carrie takes an ex-girlfriend of Doug’s out to lunch, she realizes why he dumped her--she’s annoying and needy. Meanwhile, Spence agrees to go out with a guy, even though he’s not gay, just to boost his morale.

9:30PM ET/8:30 C
Still Standing

"Still Flirting"
To give Bill and Judy a much-needed break, Judy’s parents come to take the kids for the weekend, but decide to stay when they realize Judy is sick. Having forgotten the joy of being taken care of, Judy conveniently extends her illness a little longer but gets into trouble when her parents find out she is faking.
 

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
The West Wing

"No Exit"
After a black-tie dinner, the President (Martin Sheen) and his staff are locked down inside the White House when a foreign substance is detected inside, forcing an odd coupling of people who are forced to occupy small rooms where they share personal reflections -- and some turn confrontational when Toby (Richard Schiff) accuses Will (Joshua Malina) of backstabbing Bartlet. As the inspection continues, the President, Fiderer (Lily Tomlin) and Charlie (Dule Hill) submit to intense inspection while in other corners, C.J. (Allison Janney) has strong career advice for Donna (Janel Moloney) and Josh (Bradley Whitford) queries security adviser Kate (guest star Mary McCormack, "K Street") on why his joke was deleted from the Chief's speech. John Spencer and Stockard Channing also star.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
Law & Order

"Gaijin"
When a female Japanese tourist is gunned down while seeing the sights with her husband, Detectives Briscoe (Jerry Orbach) and Green (Jesse L. Martin) utilize the description of the attacker provided by the grieving spouse, to scour for a suspect. However, when they arrest of the suspect uncovers an alleged conspiracy plot, they focus their suspicions on the victim's husband as the mastermind behind this murder. Sam Waterston, Elisabeth Rohm, Fred Thompson and S.Epatha Merkerson also star.

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

GUESTS
Ozzy And Sharon Osbourne, Kid Rock

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
Smallville

"Memoria"
Believing that key information about his father's (John Glover) past was lost when his memory was erased, Lex (Michael Rosenbaum) decides to join an experimental program with Dr. Garner (guest star Martin Cummins) to regain the information so he can turn his father over to the FBI. Knowing that Lex will discover his secret if he regains his memory, Clark (Tom Welling) tries to stop him but is caught by Lionel and the doctor and exposed to the same radical treatment so that Lionel can solve the mystery of Clark's past.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
Angel

"Time Bomb"
When Illyria's (Amy Acker) powers become unstable and cause her to erratically jump through time, she learns that the gang intends to kill her. Upon returning to the present, Illyria plans to murder everyone before they're able to attack her. To save everyone's lives, Angel (David Boreanaz) goes into the past with Illyria to alter the course of events.

 

NO HDTV TONIGHT

 

6:00AM ET/5:00 C
Great Books

"Wuthering Heights"
Emily Brontë lived like a recluse in a fantasy world that she and her siblings started when she was six. "Wuthering Heights," a novel of thwarted passion and cruelty that was considered immoral when first published.

7:00AM ET/6:00 C
Over America

Experience a spectacular visual travelogue on the beauty and grandeur that is America. From the Northwest, to the historic Atlantic, New England, painted deserts of the Southwest and the vast Midwest including the extreme contrasts of Alaska and Hawaii.

8:00AM ET/7:00 C
The Amber Room: Part 2

The search for this missing Russian treasure has spanned sixty years ever since German troops looted the Catherine Palace in St. Petersburg and carted The Amber Room back toGermany. Now Russian craftsman have unveiled a replica. If found, the original Amber Room could be worth more than 200 million dollars.

9:00AM ET/8:00 C
Bundy's Last Great Adventure

Come aboard for the final journey aboard a historic steam locomotive through Queensland, Australia. Long time employees recount tales from the many decades the train was in service.

10:00AM ET/9:00 C
Bali--off The Beaten Path

No Description Available.

11:00AM ET/10:00 C
Wild Nights

"A Night In The Savannah"
On the Savannah, the animals savor the moment when the temperature falls and the sky ceases to be blinding. Soon, another world will appear which we call night. State of the art imaging and lighting technology open a world of undisturbed animal behavior.

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

"Shari & James"
No Description Available.

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

"Hollywood Glamour Machine"
No Description Available.

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

"Love At First Sight"
Samantha wants to thank Jason for his devotion with a backyard makeover that combines his interests with hers. Rebecca helps design an outdoor backyard area where the two can cook and relax in harmony.

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

"Wild West"
For some, fascination with the Wild West has become obsession. Take a look at a perfect replica Wild West town all in one man's backyard, or see what it is like to live in an old-fashioned 30 room hotel in the middle of the Arizona Badlands.

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

"Born To Be Weird"
Does the driver make the car weird or does the car make the driver weird? The Leopard Lady of Seattle and the owner of the Cow Car in Maryland might be able to answer that question. And a Canadian couple help their daughter connect with her inner weirdo.

3:00PM ET/2:00 C
Over America

Experience a spectacular visual travelogue on the beauty and grandeur that is America. From the Northwest, to the historic Atlantic, New England, painted deserts of the Southwest and the vast Midwest including the extreme contrasts of Alaska and Hawaii.

4:00PM ET/3:00 C
The Amber Room: Part 2

The search for this missing Russian treasure has spanned sixty years ever since German troops looted the Catherine Palace in St. Petersburg and carted The Amber Room back to Germany. Now Russian craftsman have unveiled a replica. If found, the original Amber Room could be worth more than 200 million dollars.

5:00PM ET/4:00 C
Bundy's Last Great Adventure

Come aboard for the final journey aboard a historic steam locomotive through Queensland, Australia. Long time employees recount tales from the many decades the train was in service.

6:00PM ET/5:00 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.

7:00PM ET/6:00 C
Valley Of The T-rex

Travel along with the most famous paleontologist in the world, "Jack" Horner, as he continues in his search for the lost world of the most famous dinosaur of all time. His research indicates that the T-Rex might not have been a predator after all.

8:00PM ET/7:00 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.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
Rides

"Codename: Daisy"
Follow the next wave in auto design, from concept to the inaugural run. Perhaps the next Mustang or Thunderbird, this top-secret model promises to revolutionize the industry at it's debut at the world-famous Detroit Auto Show.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
Extreme Machines: Bridges

Bridges are among our most impressive engineering accomplishments. This program will examine the rigorous design and safety features that must be built into the world's largest bridges.

11:00PM ET/10:00 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.

12:00PM ET/11:00 C
Rides

"Codename: Daisy"
Follow the next wave in auto design, from concept to the inaugural run. Perhaps the next Mustang or Thunderbird, this top-secret model promises to revolutionize the industry at it's debut at the world-famous Detroit Auto Show.

1:00AM ET/12:00 C
Extreme Machines: Bridges

Bridges are among our most impressive engineering accomplishments. This program will examine the rigorous design and safety features that must be built into the world's largest bridges.

2:00AM ET/1:00 C
We Built This City

"New York"
The quintessential urban oasis, New York is home to millions. Find out how this city grew from a humble Dutch settlement to the home of the first suspension bridge to the very center of the immigration wave at the turn of the 20th century.

3:00AM 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.

4:00AM ET/3:00 C
Rides

"Codename: Daisy"
Follow the next wave in auto design, from concept to the inaugural run. Perhaps the next Mustang or Thunderbird, this top-secret model promises to revolutionize the industry at it's debut at the world-famous Detroit Auto Show.

5:00AM ET/4:00 C
Extreme Machines: Bridges

Bridges are among our most impressive engineering accomplishments. This program will examine the rigorous design and safety features that must be built into the world's largest bridges.
 

 

 

6:00AM ET/5:00 C
InFocus

Marina - An Afghan film director, Sedik Balmak, starts making a film titled Rainbow, based on the Afghanistan legend that anyone who goes through the rainbow can catch freedom. He meets Marina, a fragile young girl from a family shattered by war, who is reduced to begging in the streets overflowing with 50,000 street children in Kabul. As Marina recounts her experiences, she cannot hold back her tears. The gaze of this girl, who has seen her motherland ravaged by war, influences Balmak and in the end he is forced to change even the title and storyline.

7:00AM ET/6:00 C
Hollywood HD

Godsend, Soap Stars - In the first part of a three part series, Robert DeNiro and director Nick Hamm discuss the thriller Godsend and fans converge on Universal Citywalk in Los Angeles to meet their favorite soap stars.

7:30AM ET/6:30 C
What About Joan

Quiet Time - Jake signs a new lease on his apartment, making Joan more jittery than usual. Also, Mark is catatonic after Betsy leaves him and moves to Australia with a guy she met on her honeymoon.

8:00AM ET/7:00 C
Ladies Man

A spat between Wendy and a young boy leads to an altercation between her mom and his and a showdown between the dads. When the gentlemen meet, we discover that neither is cut out to fight anyone.

8:30AM ET/7:30 C
Higher Definition

Mark and Michael Poish, David Spade - Pop-culture writer/host Robert Wilonsky catches up with filmmakers Mark and Michael Polish to talk about their new movie Northfork, and how HD is changing the way they make movies. David Spade drops in for a conversation about his career and new film, plus, previews of what's coming soon in HDNet entertainment.

9:00AM ET/8:00 C
Across America

Las Vegas Nuptials, Cage Fighting - 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.

9:30AM ET/8:30 C
Johnathan Brownlee's at Home

The Urban Show - Optimizing space, condominium terminology, winterizing your garden, and Mission furniture.

10:00AM ET/9:00 C
Designing America

Tiptoe Through the Tulips! - Preparations for a "once a year" garden party are underway in this fabulous backyard! Learn about baking with silicon and you'll be served up some "Room Service" on Finishing Touch.

10:30AM ET/9:30 C
Tracks Ahead

Indian Pacific - The Indian Pacific Railroad is one of the longest rail journeys in the world. Join Tracks Ahead as they explore Southern Australia. Then visit artist John Bromley and examine a large O gauge layout in Washington DC.

11:00AM ET/10:00 C
White Hot Winter

Okanagan (Big White, Apex) - The Okanagan valley in the interior of BC offers some of the best winter conditions around. Sun Peaks, Big White, Silver Star, Apex: each ski resort offers something different. For something different, we meet an old-time ski bum at Apex resort, a resort that's possibly one of the best kept secrets of the Okanagan.

11:30AM ET/10:30 C
HDNet World Report

West Nile Virus: Mosquitos that can Kill - Once again, this year, Americans must watch out for mosquito bites. The seemingly harmless bug bite now could carry West Nile virus. World Report explains the cause of the disease, its timeline, and the potential for any cure.

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

Alternative Energy - HDNet World Report visits the concept of alternative energy, focusing on some traditional alternatives for gas and electricity, like solar and wind, and taking a look at some new, unlikely alternatives as well.

12:30PM ET/11:30 C
An American In Canada

Jake and the Fat Men - When Bill is inaugurated as skip of his curling team, Jake and Judy find themselves dating -- other people. Bill sets up Judy with a curling buddy, Derricks sets up Jake with his sister and Dennis tries to smuggle porn into Canada.

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

The Donnas, The Juliana Theory - The Donnas are today's hot girls of alternative Pop-Rock. True Music gets you up close and personal with The Donnas while they perform their radio hit "Take It Off". Then, enjoy an intimate acoustic perfomance from Epic recording artists The Juliana Theory. True Music also introduces the band Pleasant Grove to HDNet's audience.

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

The Gold Rush - Hogan and his men concoct a scheme to deprive the German government of a hoard of gold it has looted from the Bank of France.

2:00PM ET/1:00 C
First Monday

Right to Die - The Court must decide if a wife can have her husband, who's in a coma, taken off life support. Meanwhile, his daughter still sees signs of life in her dad.

3:00PM ET/2:00 C
The Fugitive

Pilot - Unjustly accused Dr. Richard Kimble seeks his wife's murderer while fleeing from a determined police lieutenant. Kimble travels to Miami after learning that the killer might be there.

4:00PM ET/3:00 C
NASCAR Grand National Division on HDnet

Lee 150 from Lee Speedway, NH
Special Encore Presentation

6:00PM ET/5:00 C
Counting Crows Live

Filmed February 5 & 6 at the Amsterdam Heineken Music Hall during their 2003 World Tour, this signature concert showcases the Counting Crows performing such hits as "Mr. Jones," "A Long December," "Rain King," and "Big Yellow Taxi."

7:00PM ET/6:00 C
True Music

South by Southwest 2004 - True Music is coming at you this week from the South by Southwest Music festival in Austin, TX. This 4 day music event brings out music talent from all over the world, and True Music was there to capture it in HD! On today's episode you'll see the Grammy winning band Blues Traveller, as well as their mentors The Holmes Brothers. And of course we don't want you to miss Katie Daryl's interview with songwriter Brendon Jenkins who played for the Texas Music Magazine showcase.

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

Libya: Open For Business - HDNet cameras were among the first to be admitted to Libya this year, where isolation from the rest of the world is ending, due to changes in the policies of Strongman Muammar Qadaffi. Surprisingly, the people of Libya are welcoming American businessmen and tourists to their mysterious land.

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
In-Laws - Premiere

Halloween: Resurrection - Matt inadvertently reignites a fierce competition for the best decorated house on the block.

8:30PM ET/7:30 C
Soccer - LIVE!

U.S. National Team vs. Mexico National Team

10:30PM ET/9:30 C
Sheryl Crow - C'mon America

On the heels of her greatest hits CD The Very Best of Sheryl Crow, this concert special shows off Crow at her very best. Shot outdoors in high definition, Crow performs for more than 5000 fans in Dayton, Ohio.

11:30PM ET/10:30 C
Soccer

U.S. National Team vs. Mexico National Team

1:30AM ET/12:30 C
Bikini Destinations

On Location with Hawaiian Tropic - Join top bikini models as they set sail on a series of adventures to exotic locales. Go on location with the Hawaiian Tropic models as they shoot their yearly calendar in Hawaii.

2:00AM ET/1:00 C
Get Out!

Los Angeles - Join host Kelley Johnson as she lives the Hollywood high life and explores the rest of the City of Angels. Come along as we slip past the velvet ropes and into some of LA's swankiest celebrity-packed clubs.

2:30AM ET/1:30 C
Colette Hawley

The Shushie Bush - In her act "The Shushie Bush", award-winning comedienne, Colette Hawley, describes her life, dating and the mundane day-to-day struggles of human existence. Performing at New York City's Don't Tell Mama with special guests comedians Ed Helms and Nick Dipaolo.

3:30AM ET/2:30 C
Big Apple

Mike watches his sister die while Jimmy deals with news that Terry is no longer going to be an informant.

4:30AM ET/3:30 C
Thieves

Pilot - Johnny and Rita collide while trying to single-handedly pull off the biggest diamond heist of all time. They're caught by the FBI but are offered a deal: Johnny and Rita can avoid jail time by recovering missing government property--national art treasures, underworld secrets, nuclear launch codes. Anything the government has lost, Johnny and Rita must find. Tone Loc guest stars.

5:30AM ET/4:30 C
Square Pegs

It's All How You See Things - Patty "blindly" ventures out to prove her theory that glasses decrease popularity at Weemawee, but her visionary experiment could jeopardize her longtime relationship with best friend Lauren.
 

6:00AM ET/5:00 C
The Candidate

PG - 1:50 - 1972
Cast: Robert Redford, Peter Boyle, Melvyn Douglas Director: Michael Ritchie
A charismatic lawyer running for the Senate learns the dirty secrets behind campaigning.

8:00AM ET/7:00 C
Days Of Wine and Roses

NR - 1:57 - 1962
Cast: Jack Lemmon, Lee Remick, Charles Bickford Director: Blake Edwards
A man introduces his wife to alcohol and they both spiral down together.

10:00AM ET/9:00 C
Made In Heaven

PG - 1:43 - 1987
Cast: Timothy Hutton, Kelly McGillis, Maureen Stapleton Director: Alan Rudolph
Two souls fall in love in heaven and must find each other after being reborn on Earth.

11:45AM ET/10:45 C
1492: Conquest of Paradise

PG-13 - 2:25 - 1992
Cast: Gerard Depardieu, Armand Assante, Sigourney Weaver Director: Ridley Scott
The story of Christopher Columbus' discovery of the Americas and its effect on the indigenous peoples of the Western Hemisphere.

2:15PM ET/1:15 C
Major League II

PG - 1:44 - 1994
Cast: Charlie Sheen, Tom Berenger, Corbin Bernsen Director: David S. Ward
Egos and success has left the Cleveland Indians in last place again, but they are determined to pull together.

4:00PM ET/3:00 C
The Life & Times of Judge Roy Bean

PG - 2:03 - 1972
Cast: Paul Newman, Roy Jenson, Gary Combs Director: John Huston
This comical western centers around a judge who makes his own law.

6:15PM ET/5:15 C
An American Rhapsody

PG-13 - 1:46 - 2001
Cast: Scarlett Johansson, Nastassja Kinski, Raffaella Bansagi Director: Eva Gardos
A family moves to the USA to escape oppression, but are forced to leave their infant daughter in Hungary.

8:02PM ET/7:02 C
Swing Shift

PG - 1:40 - 1984
Cast: Goldie Hawn, Kurt Russell, Christine Lahti Director: Jonathan Demme
The wife of a man fighting overseas in WWII goes to work and has a relationship with one of her coworkers.

9:45PM ET/8:45 C
Havana

R - 2:20 - 1990
Cast: Robert Redford, Lena Olin, Alan Arkin Director: Sydney Pollack
During the revolution in Cuba, a professional gambler falls in love with the wife of a communist revolutionary.

12:15AM ET/11:15 C
Swing Shift

PG - 1:40 - 1984
Cast: Goldie Hawn, Kurt Russell, Christine Lahti Director: Jonathan Demme
The wife of a man fighting overseas in WWII goes to work and has a relationship with one of her coworkers.

2:00AM ET/1:00 C
Havana

R - 2:20 - 1990
Cast: Robert Redford, Lena Olin, Alan Arkin Director: Sydney Pollack
During the revolution in Cuba, a professional gambler falls in love with the wife of a communist revolutionary.

4:20AM ET/3:20 C
The Two Jakes

R - 2:17 - 1990
Cast: Jack Nicholson, Harvey Keitel, Meg Tilly Director: Jack Nicholson
This sequel to Chinatown follows Jake Gittes as he investigates an affair between the wife of a real estate executive and his partner.

8:30AM ET/7:30 C
Wendigo

R Time: 91  
A young family's vacation trip into the mountains of upstate New York takes an ominous turn after they crash into a deer in this "genuinely bone-chilling tale" (New York Times). Jake Weber and Patricia Clarkson star as the couple whose strained marriage gets tested even further after a trio of hunters who were gunning for the stag accosts them. Worse yet, their eight-year-old son begins to see strange things...including a shape-shifting creature of supernatural origins. This is the third in filmmaker Larry Fessenden's "trilogy of revisionist horror movies" (the first two are Habit and No Telling). Erik Per Sullivan, John Speredakos and Christopher Wynkoop co-star.

10:00AM ET/9:00 C
Ghost Ship

R Time: 90  
The crew of a salvage boat thinks their ship has finally come in after they claim an abandoned ocean liner in international waters--until they discover it's a floating house of horrors! On board the empty vessel, the salvagers discover a treasure trove of gold, but strange visions begin to plague them, and when their own boat is mysteriously destroyed, they find themselves stranded on the open sea with the bloodthirsty spirits of a bygone era. Gabriel Byrne, Julianna Margulies (TV's E.R.), Ron Eldard, Desmond Harrington and Isaiah Washington star. Directed by Steve Beck.

11:35AM ET/10:35 C
Confidence

R Time: 97  
"A stylish, compelling crime caper full of smoothly navigated plot twists" (Variety). Ed Burns stars as Jake Vig, a cocky con man who agrees to pull off a scam for a big-time swindler (Dustin Hoffman) known as the King after he accidentally treads on the man's turf. Joined by his usual partners in addition to a pair of crooked cops, one of the King's henchmen and a sexy brunette (Rachel Weisz) with a penchant for picking pockets, Jake artfully sets up a seemingly impossible job: to lift a huge amount of cash from a sleazy banker with mob connections. Andy Garcia co-stars as a cop on Jake's trail. Also with Paul Giamatti (American Splendor), Donal Logue and Luis Guzman. Directed by James Foley; screenplay by Doug Jung.

1:15PM ET/12:15 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.

3:15PM ET/2:15 C
Heartbreak Ridge

R Time: 129  
One of America's most popular actors directed and stars in this guts-and-glory tribute to the fighting men of the United States Armed Forces. Clint Eastwood is Sergeant Tom Highway, a tough marine who knew hell in Korea and Vietnam. Now on his final tour of duty, he's got to whip a sorry platoon of green recruits into battleworthy shape. His methods are harsh, but they pay off when the Marines invade Grenada.

5:30PM ET/4:30 C
The Tuxedo

PG13 Time: 98  
Jackie Chan takes dressing for success to a comical new level in this action-comedy about a hapless cab driver who dons a high-tech tuxedo that transforms its wearer into a martial arts master. Jimmy Tong (Chan) is the easy-going cabbie whose job chauffeuring a wealthy secret agent takes a hilarious turn when the man is injured and Jimmy is forced to put on the battle-ready threads in an effort to stop an arch-villain with plans to control the world's water supply. Jennifer Love Hewitt co-stars as a sexy, straight-laced scientist who thinks Jimmy is the real secret agent. Also with Jason Isaacs, Debi Mazar and Peter Stormare. Directed by Kevin Donovan.

7:15PM ET/6:15 C
Eyes Wide Shut

R Time: 159  
See it for yourself and decide. Legendary director Stanley Kubrick's final picture instantly became one of the most debated and controversial films ever made. Tom Cruise is Dr. Bill Harford, a respected Manhattan physician. Nicole Kidman is his sultry wife Alice. After Alice reveals a vivid erotic fantasy, Bill angrily storms out, beginning a dreamlike adventure in which he encounters one increasingly sexual situation after another. "A spellbinding addition to the Kubrick canon" (New York Times). Also with Sydney Pollack, Marie Richardson, Todd Field, Vinessa Shaw, Alan Cumming, Leelee Sobieski and Thomas Gibson.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
Confidence

R Time: 97  
"A stylish, compelling crime caper full of smoothly navigated plot twists" (Variety). Ed Burns stars as Jake Vig, a cocky con man who agrees to pull off a scam for a big-time swindler (Dustin Hoffman) known as the King after he accidentally treads on the man's turf. Joined by his usual partners in addition to a pair of crooked cops, one of the King's henchmen and a sexy brunette (Rachel Weisz) with a penchant for picking pockets, Jake artfully sets up a seemingly impossible job: to lift a huge amount of cash from a sleazy banker with mob connections. Andy Garcia co-stars as a cop on Jake's trail. Also with Paul Giamatti (American Splendor), Donal Logue and Luis Guzman. Directed by James Foley; screenplay by Doug Jung.

11:45PM ET/10:45 C
Auto Focus

R Time: 105  
The startling rise and fall of television actor Bob Crane is detailed in all of its sordid, pornographic detail in this darkly satirical story of sex addiction. Greg Kinnear delivers a "creepy, brilliant performance" (Roger Ebert) as the Hogan's Heroes star whose incessant desire for sex is fueled by his newfound stardom as well as his friendship with an electronics salesman (Willem Dafoe) who provides Crane with all the latest video products--as well as a pal to join him on his swinging conquests. "Strangely wonderful and weirdly touching (L.A. Times). Also with Rita Wilson, Maria Bello and Ron Leibman. Directed by Paul Schrader (Taxi Driver); ba

3:00AM ET/2:00 C
Kiss Of Death

R Time: 100  
David Caruso stars in this "sleek, muscular thriller" (Ne
 

7:15AM ET/6:15 C
Firewalker

PG Time: 104
When an adventurous lass enters a bar in search of two men who are strong, brave and not too smart, it's Chuck Norris and Lou Gossett to the rescue! Melody Anderson stars as the young woman who recruits the duo to assist her search for a legendary Aztec city of gold. From there, it's one comical sequence after another as the threesome encounter nasty villains, troublesome natural dangers and even ferocious crocodiles! Will Sampson and Sonny Landham co-star. Directed by J. Lee Thompson (The Guns of Navarone).

9:00AM ET/8:00 C
Swimfan

PG13 Time: 84
A hunky high-school swimmer with a great future finds his life sinking to the bottom after a lusty fling with a slinky, but psychotic new girl on campus. Jesse Bradford stars as the swim-team standout Ben Cronin whose private lesson with attractive new co-ed Madison (Erika Christensen) leads to steamy antics in the pool. Madison claims its only a one-night stand, but it's not long before the sultry sexpot becomes a full-fledged stalker leading Ben down a dangerous path that could cost him his girlfriend, his career--and even his life. Shiri Appleby, Kate Burton and Dan Hedaya co-star. Directed by John Polson.

10:30AM ET/9:30 C
Dances With Wolves

PG13 Time: 181
Kevin Costner made his directorial debut with this 1990 Oscar(R)-winning Best Picture about a Civil War soldier who finds himself as a member of the Lakota Sioux Indian tribe. In this epic western, Costner stars as Lt. John Dunbar, a war hero who decides to take a post all alone in the outer reaches of the frontier wilderness. Slowly, he is accepted by the Sioux and made a member of the tribe opening up an entirely new world to him and awakening his once-dulled soul...until the Army arrives looking for answers. Mary McDonnell and Graham Greene co-star. Screenplay by Michael Blake, based on his novel. "Extraordinary" (Leonard Maltin's 2003 Movie & Video Guide).

1:30PM ET/12:30 C
The Pallbearer

PG13 Time: 97
Friends star David Schwimmer plays a going-nowhere college grad whose drab life takes a strange turn when he's asked to be a pallbearer at the funeral of a high-school classmate whom he doesn't remember. Gwyneth Paltrow co-stars as a mourner who happens to be Schwimmer's childhood crush, while Barbara Hershey plays the dead youth's seductress mother. Also with Michael Rapaport (TV's Boston Public), Toni Collette (About a Boy) and Carol Kane (Annie Hall). Directed by Matt Reeves (TV's Felicity); written by Jason Katims & Matt Reeves.

3:15PM ET/2:15 C
Head Of State

PG13 Time: 95
Chris Rock takes his spirited style of humor to the White House in this outrageous political comedy about a black Washington, D.C. politician who finds himself thrust into the race for president. Mays Gilliam (Rock) is a hard-working alderman whose run of bad luck ends when he's selected to run for president after his party's top candidate is killed in a plane crash. He's expected to lose...until his straight-shooting message begins to connect with voters to the dismay of his smarmy opponent. Bernie Mac is a riot as Mays' anger-prone brother/running mate. Also with Dylan Baker, Nick Searcy, Robin Givens and Lynn Whitfield.

5:00PM ET/4:00 C
Swimfan

PG13 Time: 84
A hunky high-school swimmer with a great future finds his life sinking to the bottom after a lusty fling with a slinky, but psychotic new girl on campus. Jesse Bradford stars as the swim-team standout Ben Cronin whose private lesson with attractive new co-ed Madison (Erika Christensen) leads to steamy antics in the pool. Madison claims its only a one-night stand, but it's not long before the sultry sexpot becomes a full-fledged stalker leading Ben down a dangerous path that could cost him his girlfriend, his career--and even his life. Shiri Appleby, Kate Burton and Dan Hedaya co-star. Directed by John Polson.

6:30PM ET/5:30 C
Star Wars: Episode II - Attack Of The Clones

PG Time: 142
Ten years after the events of Episode I--The Phantom Menace, George Lucas's epic Star Wars series continues! With Queen Padme Amidala (now a Senator) under death threats, it's up to Jedi master Obi-Wan Kenobi and his rebellious teen apprentice Anakin Skywalker to keep her safe. But while Obi-Wan investigates the source of the threats and a rumored clone army, the dark side within Anakin begins to awaken--while he is simultaneously pulled toward a passionate, but forbidden romance with Padme. Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Hayden Christensen, Frank Oz, Samuel L. Jackson and Christopher Lee star. (C) 2003 Lucasfilm Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
The Sopranos 60: Marco Polo

TVMA Time: 53
Friends and family gather at the Sopranos' for a not-so-surprise 75th birthday party for Carmela's father, Hugh. Meanwhile, Johnny Sack shows off his new wheels, Phil Leotardo pulls into Pussy's old place for some auto repairs, and Tony B. considers accepting a familiar job on the side.

11:00PM ET/10:00 C
Deadwood 06: Plague

TVMA Time: 51
Bullock encounters native resistance in his quest to bring a murderer to justice. Swearengen presses a resentful Farnum to keep tabs on Alma and Trixie; the camp fathers pool their resources to dispatch riders after precious vaccine and build a sick tent; Cochran enlists Jane as a nurse; and Swearengen collaborates on an article appearing in the Deadwood Pioneer.

12:00AM ET/11:00 C
Head Of State

PG13 Time: 95
Chris Rock takes his spirited style of humor to the White House in this outrageous political comedy about a black Washington, D.C. politician who finds himself thrust into the race for president. Mays Gilliam (Rock) is a hard-working alderman whose run of bad luck ends when he's selected to run for president after his party's top candidate is killed in a plane crash. He's expected to lose...until his straight-shooting message begins to connect with voters to the dismay of his smarmy opponent. Bernie Mac is a riot as Mays' anger-prone brother/running mate. Also with Dylan Baker, Nick Searcy, Robin Givens and Lynn Whitfield.

1:40AM ET/12:40 C
Sacrifice

R Time: 89
When a convicted robber finds out that his daughter has become the latest victim of a serial killer who specializes in sexual mutilation, he makes a daring escape to seek vengeance. Michael Madsen stars as the fugitive on a mission; Bokeem Woodbine is an FBI agent on his tail. Both are on individual missions that will lead to a dangerous collision with the homicidal maniac. Also with Jamie Luner, Joshua Leonard and Diane Farr.

3:15AM ET/2:15 C
Children Of The Corn The Gathering

R Time: 84
A mysterious fever descends on a tiny Nebraska town, causing the local children--led by a demonic youth preacher--to begin systematically killing the adults in this eerie horror sequel. Naomi Watts (Mulholland Drive) stars as a medical student who returns to care for her sick mother only to discover the terror that must be stopped. With Karen Black (House of 1000 Corpses), Jamie Renee Smith, Mark Salling, William Windom and Brent Jennings. Directed by Greg Spence.

4:45AM ET/3:45 C
Love & Sex

TVMA Time: 82
An article about oral sex lands a young magazine writer in trouble...and gets her thinking about her past relationships, for better or for worse, all the way back to grade school. Famke Janssen (Deep Blue Sea) stars as the beautiful writer who seems to lose all the good guys until she meets a handsome painter (Jon Favreau). Noah Emmerich, Ann Magnuson and Cheri Oteri co-star.

 

11:00AM ET/10:00 C
Children On Their Birthdays

WIDESCREEN OAR UPCONV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
PG 1h 46m
The beloved short story by Truman Capote becomes this nostalgic period piece about a sleepy Alabama town that is rocked by the appearance of two strangers: a 13-year-old girl named Lily Jane Bobbit (Tania Raymonde) and a crooked con man (Tom Arnold) who fleeces the residents of their hard-earned life savings. Joe Pichler, Jesse Plemons, Sheryl Lee and Christopher McDonald costar in this family drama.

12:45AM ET/11:45 C
Wilder Napalm

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Stereo / CCAP
PG13 1h 50m
Debra Winger is part of a family tree that's also a forest fire since her husband, a volunteer fireman (Arliss Howard), and her brother-in-law, a circus clown (Dennis Quaid), can start fires just by thinking about it. M. Emmet Walsh and Jim Varney costar in this wickedly offbeat satire.

2:35PM ET/1:35 C
Once Bitten

WIDESCREEN OAR UPCONV
PG13 1h 33m
Phenomenally funny comic actor Jim Carrey ("Dumb and Dumber," "Bruce Almighty") makes his big-screen debut with this horror comedy about a female vampire (Lauren Hutton) seeking the three male virgins whose blood she needs to drink in order to maintain her immortality. Cleavon Little and Robert Klein costar in this biting farce.

6:15PM ET/5:15 C
Ruthless People

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Stereo / CCAP
R 1h 34m
Murder plots, inept kidnappers, fortune hunters and the "dumbest person in the world" are the stuff that drive this uproarious black comedy about a greedy businessman (Danny DeVito) who doesn't want his kidnapped wife (Bette Midler) returned to him alive. Judge Reinhold, Helen Slater, Anita Morris and Bill Pullman costar in this wacky modern take on O. Henry's short story "The Ransom of Red Chief" from the comedy minds of directors Jim Abrahams, David Zucker and Jerry Zucker ("Airplane," "The Naked Gun").

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
A Guy Thing

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
PG13 1h 42m
An ill-advised bachelor party blowout turns into a bleary one-night stand for chargrined husband-to-be Paul Coleman (Jason Lee), but his guilt is compounded when he realizes that the girl (Julia Stiles) with whom he cheated is the cousin of his intended bride (Selma Blair). James Brolin, Shawn Hatosy, Diana Scarwid, Lochlyn Munro, David Koechner, Julie Hagerty and Thomas Lennon costar in this romantic comedy.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
Love Me Or Leave Me

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
TV14 - LD 54m
Lem is stunned to find Bird with Malik; Teri and Charles struggle with the demands of her career on their relationship; Kenny realizes the dangers of being a repo man.

5:15AM ET/4:15 C
$ (Dollars)

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
R 2h 1m
Warren Beatty and Goldie Hawn star in this crime caper about an employee of a German bank and his ditzy call-girl pal who are scheming to steal big bucks during the installation of a new security system. Gert Frobe costars in this fun adventure.

 

 

 

 

9:45AM ET/8:45 C
Blank Check

A young boy's bike is run over by a money-laundering con man and a blank check falls into his hands. He decides to go on a spending spree.

11:30AM ET/10:30 C
The Bourne Identity

An amnesiac (Matt Damon) tries to piece together his mysterious past while avoiding a secret organization that wants him dead.

1:35PM ET/12:35 C
Nobody's Baby

The lives of two escaped felons drastically change after they stumble upon an orphaned baby.

7:15PM ET/6:15 C
Blank Check

A young boy's bike is run over by a money-laundering con man and a blank check falls into his hands. He decides to go on a spending spree.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
The Bourne Identity

An amnesiac (Matt Damon) tries to piece together his mysterious past while avoiding a secret organization that wants him dead.

4:05AM ET/3:05 C
The Joy Luck Club

Chinese-American women learn valuable stories of their heritage from their mothers. Based on the novel by Amy Tan. Directed by Wayne Wang.

9:00AM ET/8:00 C
Perfume

WIDESCREEN OAR UPCONV
Stereo / CCAP
R 1h 47m
Director Michael Rymer crafted this semi-improvisational, ensemble docudrama set behind the scenes in the fashion world, where a famed designer (Paul Sorvino) has just learned that he is going to die, an acclaimed photographer (Jared Harris) tries to reinvent his "heroin chic" style, and a young businesswoman (Leslie Mann) wrestles with the break-up of her professional partnership. Jeff Goldblum, Rita Wilson, Peter Gallagher, Michelle Williams, Omar Epps, Sonia Braga, Carmen Electra and Harry Hamlin costar.

12:35AM ET/11:35 C
Barbershop

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
PG13 1h 43m
An all-star cast enlivens this box office smash, a sleeper hit starring Ice Cube as Calvin, the owner of a Chicago barbershop who wants to sell the establishment and move away from his crime-ridden neighborhood. But when he finally decides to accept a buyer's offer, Calvin finally begins to see the value of his long-time family business to his tight-knit community. Eve, Cedric the Entertainer, Anthony Anderson, Troy Garity and Sean Patrick Thomas costar in this feel-good hit.

6:05PM ET/5:05 C
Perfume

WIDESCREEN OAR UPCONV
Stereo / CCAP
R 1h 47m
Director Michael Rymer crafted this semi-improvisational, ensemble docudrama set behind the scenes in the fashion world, where a famed designer (Paul Sorvino) has just learned that he is going to die, an acclaimed photographer (Jared Harris) tries to reinvent his "heroin chic" style, and a young businesswoman (Leslie Mann) wrestles with the break-up of her professional partnership. Jeff Goldblum, Rita Wilson, Peter Gallagher, Michelle Williams, Omar Epps, Sonia Braga, Carmen Electra and Harry Hamlin costar.

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
Martin Lawrence Live: Runteldat

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
R 1h 44m
Comic actor Martin Lawrence ("Big Momma's House," "Black Knight") returns to his stand-up roots with this hilariously confessional concert that serves up stinging doses of social commentary and plenty of dishy revelations about his personal troubles. A tour-de-force comedy performance from a movie star who proves he's still got serious chops on a live stage.

9:45PM ET/8:45 C
Barbershop

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
PG13 1h 43m
An all-star cast enlivens this box office smash, a sleeper hit starring Ice Cube as Calvin, the owner of a Chicago barbershop who wants to sell the establishment and move away from his crime-ridden neighborhood. But when he finally decides to accept a buyer's offer, Calvin finally begins to see the value of his long-time family business to his tight-knit community. Eve, Cedric the Entertainer, Anthony Anderson, Troy Garity and Sean Patrick Thomas costar in this feel-good hit.
 

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