Will Ben Mankiewicz Be Allowed to Destroy Turner Classic Movies?

What makes Turner Classic Movies uniquely special? In order of importance, here are the three main reasons: 1. TCM is a politics-free zone; 2. The presentation; 3. The films.

You would think the films would rank number one, but that’s simply not the case. Now and again, TCM might screen something not available on Netflix or elsewhere, but for the most part what makes the fifteen year-old network so addictive and such a unique pleasure for movie lovers is the infectious enthusiasm for great (and sometimes not-so-great) cinema, legendary movie stars and Hollywood lore that envelopes every aspect of my #2 — the presentation.

The Mighty Robert Osborne simply is TCM. His class, deep well of knowledge, and abiding passion for all things classic Hollywood is contagious. Even if you happen to own the DVD of that particular film, Osborne makes you want to watch whatever it is on TCM just to enjoy his informative and affectionate bookends.

But nothing is more important to the success of the network than the fact that up till now it has remained a rare refuge from the partisan politics that today seem to have infested everything from our White House Christmas tree to “Sesame Street.” TCM is first, last and always a place for movie lovers of all political stripes. Under the soft plasma glow of TCM we are united members of one political party: Cinema Enthusiasts. (more…)