CBS's Helter Skelter Showcases HDTV and DD5.1 as Creative Storytelling Tools

TUESDAY, MAY 18, 2004

 

 

CBS presented Helter Skelter last night. It was a three hour minis-series -- a movie for television. This was the second teleproduction about the Manson family, the first aired in 1977. The old version focused on the trial while this one explored Manson's eerie hold and deathly influence over those he attracted along the way. It is a strong subject and not so easy to take for three hours. But it is a true American story with historic facts still etched into our collective consciousness. Each scene echoed (as closely as I could tell) from those facts. It was a superbly crafted production by any standard. Those who have encountered and resisted charismatic personalities could easily recognize the kind of power Manson swung over his desperate collection. Jeremy Davis did justice to the title roll. 

HDTV Magazine reader and HDTV enthusiast, Mark Wolper, produced this program. Not until the end credits did I realize that it was Mark's project. What I did quickly recognize, and I expect many of you did too, is that it was produced with HDTV and DD5.1 clearly in mind. Few teleproductions to date have given themselves over to the possibilities inherent in the DD5.1 and widescreen additions for story telling, but this one did. It was as if a new layer of intelligence had a scripted roll in the form of highly creative audio punctuations. I was moved by the production to write Mark an email right after the credits rolled expressing appreciation for his embracing HDTV so effectively. He wrote back saying, 

"When I got HDTV in my house and realized the value and power of it I made a conscious decision to make all my television show live up to that standard."

In terms of content there is no question now that the HDTV community experienced more impact from this same program than the NTSC viewers ever can. I felt that my old forecast which said: "The artists will be inspired by HDTV and because of that transform television into a far superior medium than it is today," was beginning its long journey to fulfillment.

Mark has some good news for all us who can access TNT-HD later this year:

"Wait until you see "Salems Lot" on TNT in June.  They will have their system up and running by then!!!!  And we really make use of 5.1 in that one."

Thank you Mark and CBS for being a leader in this creative climb to superior television. Without conscious acts from the artists all we end up with in this expensive movement is clearer television that is not necessarily better television. But I don't think we have much to worry about now. The bar is being raised and those who are in the game must go over it. I think we are in for some great "stuff" as these artists master the new language of HDTV.

Dale C.

 

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
8 Simple Rules

"Finale Parts Un & Deux" — Season Finale!
Cate finds herself in the awkward position of having to deal with Principal Gibb (Adam Arkin) when she forgets to turn in a health form for Kerry's trip to Europe. Then, when she discovers that Bridget took the fall for Kerry for organizing a school sit-in, she agrees meet Principal Gibb again over coffee in order to set the record straight. But the girls are convinced that their mother's innocent coffee meeting is really a date. Meanwhile, Kerry is furious when Bridget is elected student body president and wins a trip to Washington, D.C. because everyone thinks she organized the school sit-in, and Jim's new relationship with Tina (Connie Stevens) irks Cate because she still hopes that her father will reconcile with her mother, on the double-episode season finale.

8:30PM ET/7:30 C
8 Simple Rules

"Finale Parts Un & Deux" — Season Finale!
Cate finds herself in the awkward position of having to deal with Principal Gibb (Adam Arkin) when she forgets to turn in a health form for Kerry's trip to Europe. Then, when she discovers that Bridget took the fall for Kerry for organizing a school sit-in, she agrees meet Principal Gibb again over coffee in order to set the record straight. But the girls are convinced that their mother's innocent coffee meeting is really a date. Meanwhile, Kerry is furious when Bridget is elected student body president and wins a trip to Washington, D.C. because everyone thinks she organized the school sit-in, and Jim's new relationship with Tina (Connie Stevens) irks Cate because she still hopes that her father will reconcile with her mother, on the double-episode season finale.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
According to Jim

"Everybody Gets Dumped"
Tensions rise when Cheryl discovers that Dana is dating one of her ex-boyfriends, Doug, who dumped her without explanation 15 years ago. When Jim learns that Doug has season tickets to the Cubs, bygones are bygones and he's suddenly Doug's best friend. But when Doug, characteristically, ends up dumping Dana — and Jim too - they all vow to get to the truth about Doug.

9:30PM ET/8:30 C
Less Than Perfect

"Claude on One Knee"
In an effort to get rid of Lydia, Claude helps Jeb realize it's time to propose to Lydia so she can quit her job and stay home. Jeb agrees and enlists Claude's help in setting up a romantic night for the perfect proposal. He also assigns Kipp the task of gathering some guys to hang out with for his final hurrah after the proposal, but all Kipp manages to find are Owen & Carl.

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
Navy NCIS

"A Weak Link"
When a Navy SEAL dies during a routine exercise in preparation for a highly classified mission, the NCIS team thinks they have a fluke accident on their hands. But when Abby runs a test on the SEAL’s faulty equipment, Gibbs and his team are faced with what they think is a murder investigation.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
Judging Amy

"Sex, Lies and Expedia.com"
Amy’s decision to choose therapy over prison for a teenage boy who is believed to be plotting an attack against his school proves to be disastrous.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

"Mean"
When an upper Westside resident finds a young boy scavenging through his garbage looking for food, Detectives Stabler (Christopher Meloni) and Benson (Mariska Hargitay) track down the child's mother, believing him to be the victim of abuse. However, after the detectives interview the single mother, they discover she rules her home with a tight fist keeping a close watch on both her sons, sharing her paranoia over the dangers of the city with them. Dixie Carter ("Designing Women") also guest stars in the episode as Attorney Denise Brockmorton and Marlo Thomas ("That Girl") portrays a former judge gone into private practice who offers some sagely advice. Dann Florek, Richard Belzer, Ice-T and Diane Neal also star.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

"Head"
When an upper Westside resident finds a young boy scavenging through his garbage looking for food, Detectives Stabler (Christopher Meloni) and Benson (Mariska Hargitay) track down the child's mother, believing him to be the victim of abuse. However, after the detectives interview the single mother, they discover she rules her home with a tight fist keeping a close watch on both her sons, sharing her paranoia over the dangers of the city with them. Dixie Carter ("Designing Women") also guest stars in the episode as Attorney Denise Brockmorton and Marlo Thomas ("That Girl") portrays a former judge gone into private practice who offers some sagely advice. Dann Florek, Richard Belzer, Ice-T and Diane Neal also star.

 

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

Tom Arnold                                              3 Doors Down

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
Gilmore Girls

"Raincoats and Recipes"
Lorelai (Lauren Graham) suspects that Luke's (Scott Patterson) intentions toward her have become serious, but she doesn't have time to dwell on it as she prepares for the opening of the Dragonfly Inn by inviting friends and family to a test run. Using the opportunity to force her parents (Kelly Bishop and Ed Herrmann) to reconcile, Lorelai is shocked when it becomes obvious that the damage to their marriage is deeper than she had suspected. When Jason (Chris Eigeman) arrives at the Inn to convince Lorelai that their breakup was a mistake, Luke tries to declare his true feelings for Lorelai. Meanwhile, after their last awkward encounter, Rory (Alexis Bledel) goes to great lengths to salvage her friendship with Dean (Jared Padalecki).

No HDTV Tonight

 

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

"Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde"
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is one of the classic horror stories of all time. This program interweaves the plot, major themes and the life of Robert Louis Stevenson into a fascinating and thought-provoking hour long documentary.

7:00AM ET/6:00 C
Rally Round The House

"Sexy Plexy"
Newlyweds Jessica and Dan are the event coordinators for their group of 20-something friends. The only problem is their tiny house pushes entertaining to the back yard, which is quickly becoming a rundown dirt plot.

8:00AM ET/7:00 C
Trading Spaces

"Oklahoma: Clinkenbeard Road"
Frank will design Michelle, Kelly, Jim and Katy living room. Christi will design Norm, Janine, Taylor & Maggie's living room. Faber Dewar will be the carpenter.

9:00AM ET/8:00 C
The Amber Room: Part 1

The Amber Room represented the height of Amber craft during the 18th century and was once considered the 8th wonder of the world. But that was before World War II, when German Troops looted the Catherine Palace in St. Petersburg, Russia and carted it awa

10:00AM ET/9:00 C
World Of American Indian Dance

The beauty, artistry, athleticism and competition of Native American dance are illustrated dramatically in The World of American Indian Dance. This documentary highlights the many dance styles incorporated into the culture from the various Native American tribes and nations. Join actor Peter Coyote as he explores the meanings and origins of American Indian Dance.

11:00AM ET/10:00 C
Feast Of Dates

Travel to the United Arab Emirates where the date palm serves as the tree of life for the desert dwellers. Known as the phoenix by scientists, for its ability to survive in the driest and harshest places, the date palm is an extraordinary species.

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

"Heather & John"
No Description Available.

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

"Bedazzlers"
No Description Available.

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

"Mountain Man"
Ryan is a true mountain man, but when he met Suzy, he became a city boy in Chicago. Suzy wants to give Ryan a bedroom makeover to show how much she appreciates his sacrifices.

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

"It's A Jungle Out There"
It takes a special kind of person to turn a cast-off into a custom creation. Joe in Ontario uses scrap metal to create giant birds and insects that fill his yard and cover his home. In the BC forest Jan draws from his Vietnam experience to create a little of everything in his sculpture garden. Joe in Pennsylvania uses toilets to create his metaphysical sculptures.

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

"Bizarre Wheels"
What's more bizarre - a raft of the wackiest art cars you'll ever see - or their owners? You be the judge.

3:00PM ET/2:00 C
Rally Round The House

"Sexy Plexy"
Newlyweds Jessica and Dan are the event coordinators for their group of 20-something friends. The only problem is their tiny house pushes entertaining to the back yard, which is quickly becoming a rundown dirt plot.

4:00PM ET/3:00 C
Trading Spaces

"Oklahoma: Clinkenbeard Road"
Frank will design Michelle, Kelly, Jim and Katy living room. Christi will design Norm, Janine, Taylor & Maggie's living room. Faber Dewar will be the carpenter.

5:00PM ET/4:00 C
The Amber Room: Part 1

The Amber Room represented the height of Amber craft during the 18th century and was once considered the 8th wonder of the world. But that was before World War II, when German Troops looted the Catherine Palace in St. Petersburg, Russia and carted it awa

6:00PM ET/5:00 C
Feast Of Dates

Travel to the United Arab Emirates where the date palm serves as the tree of life for the desert dwellers. Known as the phoenix by scientists, for its ability to survive in the driest and harshest places, the date palm is an extraordinary species.

7:00PM ET/6:00 C
Africa's Elephant Kingdom

An extended elephant family, featuring a venerable Old Bull, embarks upon a life-and-death journey across the vast African plains. Through oppressive conditions they persevere, facing extraordinary joys and sorrows in life.

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
HD Viewer's Choice!

You program the network! Log onto www.discovery.com/hd and vote in our online poll for your choice of favorite Discovery HD Theater programs.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
Solar Eclipse Live: Anatarctica

For the first time ever, humans witness a total eclipse of the sun from Antarctica. Utilizing some of the world's best technology in the world's harshest climate, we track an eclipse from the ground and air as it casts its shadow across the continent. Recorded live during the eclipse, a panel of experts guide us through the event, helping us to understand the fundamental science of an eclipse.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
The Last Total Eclipse

Scientists around the world gathered in Turkey during the last total eclipse of the sun to study this solar phenomena. Experts from NASA provide insight and explanations about solar eclipses.

11:00PM ET/10:00 C
HD Viewer's Choice!

You program the network! Log onto www.discovery.com/hd and vote in our online poll for your choice of favorite Discovery HD Theater programs.

12:00PM ET/11:00 C
Solar Eclipse Live:anatarctica

For the first time ever, humans witness a total eclipse of the sun from Antarctica. Utilizing some of the world's best technology in the world's harshest climate, we track an eclipse from the ground and air as it casts its shadow across the continent. Recorded live during the eclipse, a panel of experts guide us through the event, helping us to understand the fundamental science of an eclipse.

1:00AM ET/12:00 C
Last Total Eclipse, The

Scientists around the world gathered in Turkey during the last total eclipse of the sun to study this solar phenomena. Experts from NASA provide insight and explanations about solar eclipses.

2:00AM ET/1:00 C
Mysterious Hanging Coffins Of China

China's leading explorers have been trying to save the last vestiges of a society that buried their dead in coffins hanging off the side of limestone cliffs. Pollution, encroaching urbanization and graverobbers threaten to destroy these artifacts.

3:00AM ET/2:00 C
South Georgia Island: Life Under The Furious Fifties

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

4:00AM ET/3:00 C
Solar Eclipse Live: Anatarctica

For the first time ever, humans witness a total eclipse of the sun from Antarctica. Utilizing some of the world's best technology in the world's harshest climate, we track an eclipse from the ground and air as it casts its shadow across the continent. Recorded live during the eclipse, a panel of experts guide us through the event, helping us to understand the fundamental science of an eclipse.

5:00AM ET/4:00 C
Last Total Eclipse, The

Scientists around the world gathered in Turkey during the last total eclipse of the sun to study this solar phenomena. Experts from NASA provide insight and explanations about solar eclipses.
 

6:00AM ET/5:00 C
Johnathan Brownlee's atHome

Sawmill / Timber Frame - Welcome to the outstanding, environmentally friendly, creative community of Squamish, British Columbia.

6:30AM ET/5:30 C
Red Bull Flugtag, Austin

Contestants launch themselves off of a 30-foot high ramp into Town Lake in their own human powered machines for cash and prizes.

7:00AM ET/6:00 C
HDNet This Month

May 2004 - Previews and highlights of all the great programming you'll find on HDNet during the month of May.

8:00AM ET/7:00 C
HDNet Test Patterns

Wonder how your home theatre is doing? Wish you had test patterns to help set it up? Well, HDNet is here to help. This short program will help you get the most out of your home theatre setup by providing you with the same professional test patterns HDNet uses to set their gear.

8:10AM ET/7:10 C
Ladies Man

Jimmy starts his new career as a full-fledge building contractor. His first client: game show host Alex Trebek. With the help of his architect partner, Jimmy learns that there is a special way of dealing with celebrity clientel. Meanwhile, Wendy gets a dog from the pound that is anything but a "standard" poodle.

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

John Woo, Neve Campbell - Pop-culture writer/host Robert Wilonsky sits down with Director John Woo, to talk about his new movie, Paycheck, plus, how his style has become such an influence on other filmmakers; and, Neve Campbell stops by to talk about the making of her new movie, The Company, which was shot entirely in HD.

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

Pole Dancing Workouts, Speed Dating - Bored with your workouts? Look to the red light district. Pole dancing moves to the suburbs, as a way to stay in shape. Then Across America shows you how to find that special someone in four minutes flat.

9:30AM ET/8:30 C
Beautiful Landscapes of Japan

Shirakawa Village, Gifu

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

Dean Fearing - Tour Time at the home of superstar chef Dean Fearing.

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

Union Station - Explore Union Station, the most visited place in Washington DC. Meet master modeler and brass collector Howard Zane. Explore the north east coast of Australia on the luxurious Australian Orient Express.

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

Galapagos: Evolution at the Speed of Life - The effect of El Nino weather patterns on wildlife has been documented worldwide for years, but scientists are now uncovering some startling new facts. On the Galapagos Islands lack of food has caused a colony of marine iguanas to physically shrink. In the hunt for food, these iguanas are forced to venture ashore, and some are beginning to breed with their land-based cousins.

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

Libya: A Bigger Role for Women - World Report cameras were among the first to enter Libya with the easing of U.S. travel restrictions. The world is now coming to Libya, seeking to learn more about the mysterious country. One of the more interesting concepts in the nation ruled by Qadaffi is the liberated view of women in this society.

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

America: Fallen Marines - World Report cameras are in Minnesota to see the funerals of a number of Marines who have been killed in action in Iraq. Many families in the American heartland remain supportive of both the troops and the American mission...but the ultimate price paid by some families with the loss of their loved ones hits hometowns in a devastating fashion.

12:30PM ET/11:30 C
Smart Travels Europe

Greek Islands - We island hop the Aegean to sun-drenched, upscale and exotic, Santorini on the rim of an ancient volcano. The island of Naxos offers serenity, a low-keyed pace and bargain accommodations. It's massive marble quarries and kouros sculptures were the toast of ancient Greece. We catch some R&R on trendy Mykonos, and then head to sacred Delos – an uninhabited island covered entirely with ancient ruins.

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

Blue October, The Josh Goode Band - Join True Music host Katie Daryl as she talks with the rock sensation Blue October, plus you'll get to see their hit single titled "Calling You" which is currently featured in the new movie American Wedding. Also on this week's True Music, two bands to keep your eye on: Soviet Space and The Josh Goode Band. Their mellow rock sound is sure to send you shopping at your local CD store.

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

Request Permission to Escape - A prisoner pleads with Hogan for permission to escape Stalag 13 so he can return stateside and win back his straying sweetheart.

2:00PM ET/1:00 C
Charlie's Angels

Lady Killer - A sexploitation empire is threatened when its nude centerfold models are mysteriously murdered. Angel Jill becomes a candidate for the centerfold of Feline Magazine, hoping to tempt the hand of the murderer of two previous models. There are many suspects on the magazine's staff and the in-fighting is so intense that attempts on the lives of undercover employees Kelly and Sabrina further cloud the investigation.

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

Jenny - In Northern California, Kimble and an innkeeper become lovers, and he considers ending his flight to live with her. But a pair of bank robbers has other plans for Kimble. (Part one of a two-part episode)

4:00PM ET/3:00 C
Major League Soccer

San Jose Earthquakes @ Dallas Burn
Special Encore Presentation

6:00PM ET/5:00 C
In the Dust

Follow Indianapolis 500 racer Robbie Groff as he battles the desert in the grueling Nevada 1000 Off-Road Race in this feature documentary.

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

Trampoline Records Bash - Trampoline Records invited True Music to their huge bash in Austin, TX while they celebrated at South By Southwest- one of the largest music festivals around. Joining Katie Daryl on this week's show is Nadine, Minibar, and The Hang ups. Did we mention that Pete Yorn stopped by to jam on the drums, and Rami Jaffee from the Wallflowers plays a little keyboard with the bands?

7:30PM ET/6:30 C
Get Out!

Houston Superbowl - Join the Get Out! crew as they check out the hottest superbowl parties including the ESPN and Sports Illustrated Soiree and take in some of the sites in and around Houston before the big game.

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
HDNet World Report - Premiere

The American West: Desert Dangers - As Americans seek a better quality of life, and continue to experience a substantial growth in population, wildlife habitat disappears. In the desert southwest, the wildlife is small and deadly and seems to fight back. See an unusual presentation of scorpions and Africanized bees and other desert dangers that threaten man's expansion in the warmer climates.

8:30PM ET/7:30 C
Smart Travels Europe - Premiere

France's Burgundy and Loire Regions - The Burgundy region boasts top French wines, romantic canals, Romanesque churches and some of France's most renowned cuisine. We base in the small town of Beaune and and visit the city of Dijon and the cathedral at Vezelay. Then it's on to the Loire Valley and chateaux country for stops at Amboise, magnificent Chenonceau, and overwhelming Chambord.

9:00PM ET/8:00 C
InFocus

Just Another Spring - Explore the love of a small Japanese village for a gigantic cherry tree said to be over 1000 years old and which plays an important role in their lives.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
Hollywood HD - Premiere

Shrek 2 Premiere, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror - The red carpet goes green for the Shrek 2 premiere, and lots of celebrities, including Sarah Michelle Gellar and Tyra Banks test their bravery at the debut of the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror in Disneyland.

10:30PM ET/9:30 C
Across America - Premiere

Hollywood Actor, Broncos Cheerleader Tryouts - Co-host Ron Kruck pounds the pavement with a struggling Hollywood actor, and Colorado's peppiest beauties vie to become Denver Broncos Cheerleaders.

11:00PM ET/10:00 C
HDNet World Report

The American West: Desert Dangers - As Americans seek a better quality of life, and continue to experience a substantial growth in population, wildlife habitat disappears. In the desert southwest, the wildlife is small and deadly and seems to fight back. See an unusual presentation of scorpions and Africanized bees and other desert dangers that threaten man's expansion in the warmer climates.

11:30PM ET/10:30 C
Smart Travels Europe

France's Burgundy and Loire Regions - The Burgundy region boasts top French wines, romantic canals, Romanesque churches and some of France's most renowned cuisine. We base in the small town of Beaune and and visit the city of Dijon and the cathedral at Vezelay. Then it's on to the Loire Valley and chateaux country for stops at Amboise, magnificent Chenonceau, and overwhelming Chambord.

12:00AM ET/11:00 C
InFocus

Just Another Spring - Explore the love of a small Japanese village for a gigantic cherry tree said to be over 1000 years old and which plays an important role in their lives.

1:00AM ET/12:00 C
Hollywood HD

Shrek 2 Premiere, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror - The red carpet goes green for the Shrek 2 premiere, and lots of celebrities, including Sarah Michelle Gellar and Tyra Banks test their bravery at the debut of the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror in Disneyland.

1:30AM ET/12:30 C
Across America

Hollywood Actor, Broncos Cheerleader Tryouts - Co-host Ron Kruck pounds the pavement with a struggling Hollywood actor, and Colorado's peppiest beauties vie to become Denver Broncos Cheerleaders.

2:00AM ET/1:00 C
True Music

Trampoline Records Bash - Trampoline Records invited True Music to their huge bash in Austin, TX while they celebrated at South By Southwest- one of the largest music festivals around. Joining Katie Daryl on this week's show is Nadine, Minibar, and The Hang ups. Did we mention that Pete Yorn stopped by to jam on the drums, and Rami Jaffee from the Wallflowers plays a little keyboard with the bands?

2:30AM ET/1:30 C
Robbery Homicide Division

Wild Ride - Cole and his team try to protect a woman from her ex-husband, a white supremacist gang member just released from prison.

3:30AM ET/2:30 C
Equal Justice

In Confidence

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

Best Laid Plans - Terry sets up Chris to be arrested for robbery while Vincent deals with shooting and killing another thief.

5:30AM ET/4:30 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.
 

7:45AM ET/6:45 C
None But The Brave

NR - 1:45 - 1965
Cast: Frank Sinatra, Clint Walker, Tommy Sands Director: Frank Sinatra
American troops agree to a temporary truce with Japanese soldiers when they are both stranded on an island.

9:35AM ET/8:35 C
The Rounders

NR - 1:25 - 1965
Cast: Glenn Ford, Henry Fonda, Sue Anne Langdon Director: Burt Kennedy
Two cowboys with a propensity to spend their earnings in the nearest bar, come up with a scheme bound to send them on their dream trip to Tahiti.

11:05AM ET/10:05 C
Cromwell

G - 2:19 - 1970
Cast: Richard Harris, Alec Guinness, Robert Morley Director: Ken Hughes
The story of Oliver Cromwell's passionate crusade against Charles I during the British Civil War.

1:30PM ET/12:30 C
Battle Of The Bulge

NR - 2:43 - 1965
Cast: Henry Fonda, Robert Shaw, Robert Ryan Director: Ken Annakin
Reenactment of the battle during the winter of 1944, when Hitler planned a secret offensive to recapture lost territory.

4:15PM ET/3:15 C
None But The Brave

NR - 1:45 - 1965
Cast: Frank Sinatra, Clint Walker, Tommy Sands Director: Frank Sinatra
American troops agree to a temporary truce with Japanese soldiers when they are both stranded on an island.

6:00PM ET/5:00 C
Wrong Is Right

R - 1:57 - 1982
Cast: Sean Connery, Katharine Ross, Robert Conrad Director: Richard Brooks
A TV news journalist is fast on the heels of international terrorists who have stolen various nuclear weapons.

8:00PM ET/7:00 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.

9:45PM ET/8:45 C
Pure Country

PG - 1:52 - 1992
Cast: George Strait, Lesley Ann Warren, Isabel Glasser Director: Christopher Cain
A country music superstar tires of his fame, moves back to Texas, and finds love in the process.

11:45PM ET/10:45 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.

1:30AM ET/12:30 C
Pure Country

PG - 1:52 - 1992
Cast: George Strait, Lesley Ann Warren, Isabel Glasser Director: Christopher Cain
A country music superstar tires of his fame, moves back to Texas, and finds love in the process.

3:30AM ET/2:30 C
Dead Heat

R - 1:26 - 1988
Cast: Treat Williams, Joe Piscopo, Vincent Price Director: Mark Goldblatt
A cop resurrects his partner from the dead to aide in the fight against the mischievous zombies overtaking the city.

5:00AM ET/4:00 C
Fast Walking

R - 1:55 - 1982
Cast: James Woods, Tim McIntire, Kay Lenz Director: James B. Harris
A prison guard becomes involved in the escape of a militant prisoner.
 

8:20AM ET/7:20 C
The Witches

PG Time: 91  
An innocent boy is pitted against the wickedest witch east of Kansas! Anjelica Huston is "creepy and campy...a femme fatale of the broomstick set" (New York Post) in her role as a witch who plans to turn all of Britain's children into mice. Jim Henson's special effects add a touch of magic to this wickedly entertaining fairy tale.

10:00AM ET/9:00 C
Adam Sandler's Eight Crazy Nights

PG13 Time: 76  
A mean-spirited drunk is kept out of jail during the Hanukkah season by a kindly old man who employs him at the local community center in this animated musical voiced by Adam Sandler. In a small New England village, Davey Stone is the local boozehound causing chaos, wreaking havoc and ruining the holiday season for the townsfolk. But just as he's about to go to jail for good, compassionate local basketball coach Whitey Duvall asks to use Davey as his assistant. With Whitey's help, Davey coaches the kids' team and has one chance to reform in time for the holidays. Featuring the voices of Jackie Titone, Austin Stout, Kevin Nealon and Jon Lovitz. Written by Brooks Arthur, Allen Covert, Brad Isaacs and Adam Sandler. Directed by Seth Kearsley.

1:00PM ET/12:00 C
Groundhog Day

PG Time: 101  
What if you had to keep living the same day over and over-and over-again--until you got it right? It happens to Bill Murray as a conceited, obnoxious Pittsburgh weatherman in this "lovable and sweet" (New York Daily News) hit comedy. In Punxsutawney, Pa., to cover Groundhog Day, he treats everyone badly, including pretty producer Andie MacDowell. Then, when he wakes up the next morning, it's February 2 again...and again...and again! Is there no way out of this time warp? With Chris Elliott.

3:00PM ET/2:00 C
Phone Booth

R Time: 80  
Answering a call at a midtown Manhattan phone booth puts an arrogant publicist in the sights of a demented sniper in this heart-stopping Hitchcockian thriller. Colin Farrell (Daredevil) stars as Stu Shepard, a media guru who is trapped by an unseen gunman who is armed with bullets...as well as with intimate personal details of Stu's life. When the crisis turns deadly, it's up to Stu to turn the tables on the madman--but first he must convince the cops that he's not the killer! Forest Whitaker, Katie Holmes, Radha Mitchell and Kiefer Sutherland co-star. Directed by Joel Schumacher; written by Larry Cohen.

6:15PM ET/5:15 C
Robocop

R Time: 102  
Motown gets the ultimate law enforcer in a crime-riddled future when scientists use a murdered cop's body to create an unstoppable cyborg crime fighter. Director Paul Verhoeven's sci-fi cult classic stars Peter Weller as Murphy, a member of Detroit's finest until his murder lands his remains inside a metal shell. Robocop is a huge success in stopping crime...until Murphy's human memories begin to invade his computerized brain and lead him on a bloody mission of revenge. With Nancy Allen (Dressed to Kill), Ronny Cox (Deliverance), Kurtwood Smith (TV's That 70s Show) and Miguel Ferrer (Traffic).

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
Panic Room

R Time: 111  
It seems like perfect home security against intruders: a concrete-and-steel-reinforced room equipped with supplies, phone and camera monitors. Unless the intruders include a guy who used to build such rooms. From director David Fincher (Fight Club) and writer David Koepp comes this harrowing thriller with Jodie Foster as newly divorced mother Meg Altman who has just moved with her daughter Sarah into a beautiful New York City brownstone equipped with a 'panic room.' When three criminals break in to rob the place, Meg and Sarah lock themselves in the room, leading to a tension-packed chess match between a desperate woman and three very dangerous men. Forest Whitaker, Jared Leto, Dwight Yoakam and Kristin Stewart co-star.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
Phone Booth

R Time: 80  
Answering a call at a midtown Manhattan phone booth puts an arrogant publicist in the sights of a demented sniper in this heart-stopping Hitchcockian thriller. Colin Farrell (Daredevil) stars as Stu Shepard, a media guru who is trapped by an unseen gunman who is armed with bullets...as well as with intimate personal details of Stu's life. When the crisis turns deadly, it's up to Stu to turn the tables on the madman--but first he must convince the cops that he's not the killer! Forest Whitaker, Katie Holmes, Radha Mitchell and Kiefer Sutherland co-star. Directed by Joel Schumacher; written by Larry Cohen.

12:30AM ET/11:30 C
Stiletto Dance

R Time: 97  
Passion and action create an electrifying mix in this high-flying action-adventure set in upstate New York. Eric Roberts and Romano Orzari star as Buffalo cops whose undercover operation has brought them within range of nailing a top Russian mob boss...if they don't wind up dead first! Shawn Doyle (Frequency) and Lucie Laurier (Mumford) co-star.

3:35AM ET/2:35 C
Panic Room

R Time: 111  
It seems like perfect home security against intruders: a concrete-and-steel-reinforced room equipped with supplies, phone and camera monitors. Unless the intruders include a guy who used to build such rooms. From director David Fincher (Fight Club) and writer David Koepp comes this harrowing thriller with Jodie Foster as newly divorced mother Meg Altman who has just moved with her daughter Sarah into a beautiful New York City brownstone equipped with a 'panic room.' When three criminals break in to rob the place, Meg and Sarah lock themselves in the room, leading to a tension-packed chess match between a desperate woman and three very dangerous men. Forest Whitaker, Jared Leto, Dwight Yoakam and Kristin Stewart co-star.
 

7:00AM ET/6:00 C
Mr. Rice's Secret

PG Time: 92
Twelve-year-old Owen is surrounded by death. Struggling with Hodgkin's Disease, and resisting the companionship of other "sick" children, he has recently lost his closest friend, the elderly, mysterious Mr. Rice. After Owen thrills his mischievous pals by secretly taping Mr. Rice's funeral, they discover an exciting secret left by Mr. Rice for them to discover...through a challenging scavenger hunt. It could be the answer to Owen's problems. With David Bowie, Bill Switzer, Teryl Rothery.

8:30AM ET/7:30 C
Encino Man

PG Time: 88
Brendan Fraser goes from simple Cro-Magnon to Big Caveman on Campus in this comedy of Stone Age dimensions from director Les Mayfield (Flubber). Sean Astin and Pauly Shore co-star as the unpopular nerds who discover the caveman and introduce him to Encino High...as a prehistoric exchange student who becomes an instant hit with his classmates and teachers alike! Also with Megan Ward and Robin Tunney (Vertical Limit).

10:30AM ET/9:30 C
Gods And Generals

PG13 Time: 218
Jeff Daniels, Robert Duvall and Stephen Lang star as three officers in this prequel to Gettysburg that brings to life three poignant battles from the early years of the Civil War. Duvall stars as Gen. Robert E. Lee who, with Gen. "Stonewall" Jackson (Lang), leads the South into battle against the Union forces during the early 1860s. The first battle of Bull Run is depicted in detail and followed by equally thorough accounts of the battle of Fredericksburg, and the battle of Chancellorsville. Jeff Daniels co-stars as Lt. Col. Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain who fights for the North and the abolition of slavery. Based on the book by Jeff Shaara. With Mira Sorvino, Kevin Conway, C. Thomas Howell and Frankie Faison. Written and directed by Ronald F. Maxwell.

2:30PM ET/1:30 C
Eddie

PG13 Time: 100
Whoopi Goldberg is a load-mouthed basketball fan hired to coach the long-suffering New York Knicks in an effort to boost game-day attendance. Goldberg plays Eddie Franklin, an outspoken lifelong Knicks fan and relentless critic of management's on and off court decisions. The Knicks owner knows his team is pitiful and attendance at Madison Square Garden is slipping away. His solution? Find new knockout cheerleaders, fire the long-standing coach...and hire fan-favorite Eddie to manage the team. Cameo appearances from Dennis Rodman, Donald Trump, David Letterman and former NYC mayor Ed Koch. Co-starring Frank Langella, Dennis Farina, Richard Jenkins, Lisa Ann Walter and John Benjamin Hickey. Directed by Steve Rash.

4:15PM ET/3:15 C
National Security

PG13 Time: 88
Martin Lawrence and Steve Zahn play former cops turned security guards who team up in spite of their mutual distrust to stop a group of smugglers. After he is tossed from the police academy, Earl Montgomery (Lawrence) exacts revenge by lying that dedicated cop Hank Rafferty beat him up. Hank gets kicked off the force, serves six months in the slammer and, as luck would have it, winds up working in the same security firm as Earl. Can the pair stand each other long enough to stop the bad guys and possibly get reinstated on the police force...or will they kill each other first? Colm Feore, Bill Duke and Eric Roberts co-star. Directed by Dennis Dugan; written by Jay Scherick & David Ronn. "A funny, raucous action comedy" (L.A. Times).

5:45PM ET/4:45 C
Half Past Dead

PG13 Time: 98
A botched police operation left him dead for 22 minutes. But for FBI agent Sascha Petrosevitch, his latest predicament is even more deadly! Steven Seagal stars as the tough-as-nails agent who goes undercover in the refurbished prison at Alcatraz. As authorities prepare to execute a top criminal at the prison, heavily armed paratroopers storm the building to save the man--and get valuable information out of him. What the bad guys don't count on is that Sascha a is one-man wrecking crew who will stop at nothing to take them down! Morris Chestnut, Ja Rule, Nia Peeples and Tony Plana co-star in this intense action film. Written and directed by Don Michael Paul.

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
28 Days Later

R Time: 113
A virus that transforms humans into bloodthirsty, rage-filled zombies eradicates all but a handful of survivors in this acclaimed shocker from director Danny Boyle (Trainspotting). Jim (Cillian Murphy) awakens from a coma to discover a London eerily devoid of human life...but filled with frighteningly frenzied ghouls. He joins fellow survivors Selena, Frank and Frank's young daughter Hannah and together they attempt to navigate their way toward the source of a radio broadcast that promises help. But what that they find may pose an even greater threat than the crazed creatures that creep about in the city. With Naomie Harris, Christopher Eccleston, Megan Burns and Brendan Gleeson. Screenplay by Alex Garland.

11:00PM ET/10:00 C
The Sopranos 63: The Test Dream

TVMA Time: 49
Though his affair with Valentina is heating up, Tony can't seem to get an old flame out of his mind. After digesting an unsavory bit of news, Tony B. takes out his agita in an all-too-familiar way. Treating himself to a night's repose in the city, Tony ends up in another somnolent funhouse.

1:00AM ET/12:00 C
Dead Presidents

R Time: 119
Allen and Albert Hughes's follow-up to the hit urban drama Menace II Society is a "powerful" (Variety) exploration of a black youth's transition into manhood during the years 1968 to 1974. As an 18-year-old high-school grad from the Bronx, Anthony (Larenz Tate) shocks his friends and family by enlisting for service in Vietnam. But his horrible war experiences and his return to an uncertain future serve to darken Anthony's previously good-natured personality...and leave him primed to take part in a risky crime. With Keith David, Chris Tucker, N'Bushe Wright and Michael Imperioli (HBO's The Sopranos).

4:00AM ET/3:00 C
28 Days Later

R Time: 113
A virus that transforms humans into bloodthirsty, rage-filled zombies eradicates all but a handful of survivors in this acclaimed shocker from director Danny Boyle (Trainspotting). Jim (Cillian Murphy) awakens from a coma to discover a London eerily devoid of human life...but filled with frighteningly frenzied ghouls. He joins fellow survivors Selena, Frank and Frank's young daughter Hannah and together they attempt to navigate their way toward the source of a radio broadcast that promises help. But what that they find may pose an even greater threat than the crazed creatures that creep about in the city. With Naomie Harris, Christopher Eccleston, Megan Burns and Brendan Gleeson. Screenplay by Alex Garland.
 

2:00PM ET/1:00 C
What's Cooking?

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Stereo / CCAP
PG13 1h 50m
Gurinder Chadha ("Bhaji on the Beach," "Bend It Like Beckham") wrote and directed this multicultural ensemble drama that examines the crises unfolding in four ethnically diverse households, while sumptuous feasts are prepared for the Thanksgiving holiday. Dennis Haysbert, Alfre Woodard, Douglas Spain, Mercedes Ruehl, Kyra Sedgwick, Julianna Margulies and Joan Chen star.

4:00PM ET/3:00 C
Hoosiers

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1
PG 1h 55m
Soaring, critically acclaimed sports drama starring Gene Hackman as a tough basketball coach in the Fifties era who redeems his failed career by transforming an Indiana high school team into state championship material - all while facing the community's wrath, falling in love with a pretty schoolteacher (Barbara Hershey), and giving the town drunk (Dennis Hopper) a second chance at dignity. Sheb Wooley costars in this heartfelt hit from the makers of "Rudy."

6:00PM ET/5:00 C
Sidewalks of New York

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Surround / CCAP
R 1h 48m
A documentary film crew charts the romantic lives of six New Yorkers whose paths unexpectedly intersect in this sweet romantic comedy-drama from writer, director and star Edward Burns ("The Brothers McMullen," "Saving Private Ryan"). A quirky, intelligent Generation X homage to Woody Allen's "Husbands and Wives," this critically acclaimed, independent production costars Heather Burns, Stanley Tucci, Brittany Murphy, David Krumholtz and Rosario Dawson.

11:00PM ET/10:00 C
Episode #405

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1 / CCAP
TVMA - VLD 48m

5:35AM ET/4:35 C
Hoosiers

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Dolby Digital 5.1
PG 1h 55m
Soaring, critically acclaimed sports drama starring Gene Hackman as a tough basketball coach in the Fifties era who redeems his failed career by transforming an Indiana high school team into state championship material - all while facing the community's wrath, falling in love with a pretty schoolteacher (Barbara Hershey), and giving the town drunk (Dennis Hopper) a second chance at dignity. Sheb Wooley costars in this heartfelt hit from the makers of "Rudy."
 

 

 

7:05PM ET/6:05 C
Jack

Robin WIlliams plays a 10-year-old who's aging at ten times the normal rate.
 

8:15AM ET/7:15 C
The Doctor

WIDESCREEN OAR UPCONV
Stereo / CCAP
PG13 2h 3m
William Hurt is a successful surgeon who prides himself on his emotional detachment until he receives the rude awakening of a throat cancer diagnosis in this drama based on the novel "A Dose of My Own Medicine" by Ed Rosenbaum, MD. Christine Lahti, Elizabeth Perkins, Mandy Patinkin, Adam Arkin, Charlie Korsmo, Wendy Crewson and Bill Macy costar in this eye-opening story from director Randa Haines ("Children of a Lesser God").

12:05AM ET/11:05 C
Bowling for Columbine

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Stereo / CCAP
R 2h 0m
Director and star Michael Moore ("Roger & Me") stirred up controversy - and won an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature - with this dissection of America's fascination with firearms, a skillful work of agitprop that is by turns infuriating, disturbing and hilarious as the rotund host gets a free gun with his new bank account, pays an impromptu visit to NRA chief Charlton Heston, and visits with a survivor of the Columbine High School shootings.

5:45PM ET/4:45 C
The Doctor

WIDESCREEN OAR UPCONV
Stereo / CCAP
PG13 2h 3m
William Hurt is a successful surgeon who prides himself on his emotional detachment until he receives the rude awakening of a throat cancer diagnosis in this drama based on the novel "A Dose of My Own Medicine" by Ed Rosenbaum, MD. Christine Lahti, Elizabeth Perkins, Mandy Patinkin, Adam Arkin, Charlie Korsmo, Wendy Crewson and Bill Macy costar in this eye-opening story from director Randa Haines ("Children of a Lesser God").

8:00PM ET/7:00 C
Bowling for Columbine

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Stereo / CCAP
R 2h 0m
Director and star Michael Moore ("Roger & Me") stirred up controversy - and won an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature - with this dissection of America's fascination with firearms, a skillful work of agitprop that is by turns infuriating, disturbing and hilarious as the rotund host gets a free gun with his new bank account, pays an impromptu visit to NRA chief Charlton Heston, and visits with a survivor of the Columbine High School shootings.

10:00PM ET/9:00 C
The Hollywood Sign

WIDESCREEN OAR HDTV
Stereo / CCAP
R 1h 34m
As part of their risky comeback scheme, three washed-up Hollywood has-beens (Tom Berenger, Rod Steiger and Burt Reynolds) hatch a plot to steal $10 million in this comic crime caper based on the novel by Leon de Winter. Jacqueline Kim, Dominic Keating, Al Sapienza and David Proval costar.

 

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