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05.13.05 Why We Blog

Hey. This is Evan. I’m the General Manager of IFC, and this is the first post in our newly created “Captain’s Blog.”

We decided to create this particular blog to provide a forum for free exchange between IFC’s audience and the IFC team. It's a place where we can tell you what IFC is doing (and why), and where you can tell us what you think about what IFC is doing (and why).

Many of you regularly email our webmaster - with questions, film requests and even complaints. Those emails are always passed along to us, and we read them all. And, as many of you know, I frequently respond personally.

We love that input, take it very seriously, and encourage you to keep it up. Just know that because many of you do ask us the same questions and address the same concerns, it may be more efficient for me to answer you here, in the “Captain’s Blog.”

We’ve been working hard over the past year to upgrade the network – new on air look, new film strands, more original programming - while remaining true to our core mission. Think of it as IFC 5.0. It’s just one of the ways that we’re working hard to make this network great.

Please let us know what you think. Write or post, email or Blog, we want to hear from you.

And please continue to look to this space for more on film, the film business, emerging digital technology and even some politics.

Permalink | Comments (900)

Comments

Hey Evan-

Why don't you add Film Threat to your list of "sites we like"?

Must have been an oversight on your part. I forgive you man.

Thanks!
Chris Gore

Posted by: Chris Gore | May 13, 2005 8:45:00 PM

evan my heart bleeds peanut butter for you maybe you have more concern about hanging out with celebs and free swag than you have with the concerns of the fans how is it your not fired already i am sure if the president of abc canceled desperate house wives their #1 show he would have been told to hit the bricks but you cancel your number 1 show uff and your stil standing how is that possible mindless did a great job your hosts did a great job i am sure your over head was not overly padded for a national show this month your running a doc about a true programming genius jerry harvey a innovater and risk taker yet you pull one of the most inovative game shows on the air you need to do more than show movie about the z channel you should take a psge from it i am a fair guy will to reevaluate my op so tell us your side if you got the guts signed charlie stewart season 2 the south

Posted by: charlie stewart | May 13, 2005 11:15:33 PM

Chris - totally an oversight - call it jet lag! The link will be up on Monday, dude - my bad.

Charlie - we love UFF. Problem is, it seems game shows are not for our core fans. We survey our audience (1000 of them) every three months, and our viewers are very story-driven.

As a consequence, we are shifting our original series production to focus on scripted shows.

This summer, we will launch 3 new series - Greg The Bunny (yes, the puppets are back), Hopeless Pictures (an animated show about a fictional indie studio, with Michael McKean and Jennifer Coolidge) and The Festival (a "mockumentary" series about a film festival).

They don't have an obsession round, but i think that you'll like 'em.

As to why I haven't been fired yet... you'd have to ask my boss.

Posted by: evan | May 14, 2005 5:55:38 AM

wouldnt the rating be a beteer bench mark than opinion polls /surveys ans wasnt uff your number 1 show i apperciate your answer even though it smell s a bit corprate shillish

Posted by: charlie stewart | May 14, 2005 12:57:34 PM

OK, What's been on my mind...

What the F@*K does "Greg the Bunny" have to do with independant film?

Posted by: Max Katz | May 14, 2005 3:21:58 PM

Hey Evan- you said:
"We survey our audience (1000 of them)every three months, and our viewers are very story-driven."

That's your reason for cancelling UFF? Don't you have a lot of story-driven stuff on your network already -- THEY'RE CALLED MOVIES!!! Don't movies make up, like 95% of your programming? Ultimate Film Fantic was cool as it put the AUDIENCE who watches IFC, you know, real MOVIE FANS, on the air. Taking it off shows how little respect you have for your audience.

Only a corporate suck up with no backbone would look at that survey and come to that conclusion.

Posted by: Charles Miller | May 14, 2005 8:19:20 PM

Hey Evan,

Try to not take all this talk to harshly. I think you probably know that we UFF people can be a pretty obsessive bunch. I mean, that's why they picked us, right?

While we Season 2 people were in LA, we were told that Season 1 was the #1 rated show on IFC, were the ratings for Season 2 better, or worse?

Not to say anything bad about Season 1, but I think Season 2 was more entertaining, and I think a lot of us were very anxious to see a Season 3.

I really am excited about your fictional shows coming through, and while Greg the Bunny doesn't have anything to do with Independent Film, I can acknowledge the desire to take something that was great, and give it a second chance at life.

There are four comments I have.
1) At what point do you lose sight of your original focus? Clearly this happened a long time ago to Mtv, and just showing Greg the Bunny doesn't put you there, but it's a start.

2) Is it just the lack of resources that stop you from doing these fictional shows AND "reality" programing?

3) I've heard that Mindless isn't allowed to take UFF to another chanel. My HOPE is that's because you'd like to keep the option open to run it later. If not, I wish you would open that option up.

4) What does this mean for the other "reality" shows on IFC? I'm not a huge Dinner for Five fan, but I love Henry's show, and hope that doesn't go anywhere.

Thanks a lot for keeping a blog, and conversing with people in this fashion.

Posted by: Nat Dykeman | May 14, 2005 8:28:34 PM

Only a corporate suck up with no backbone would look at that survey and come to that conclusion.

Posted by: Charles Miller | May 14, 2005 08:19 PM

wlll put i give a harumph to that

Posted by: charlie stewart | May 15, 2005 1:09:53 AM

All,

We are not rated, so we rely heavily on our audience research to give us a picture of how our audience responds to our programming. This is how we developed the Pulp Indies strand and how we discovered that our viewers spend almost as much time on our website as they do watching the network (also the impetus for this blog, btw).

Despite the "corporate suck" slur, we didn't make the decision to put UFF on semi-permanent hiatius for corporate reasons. Nor have we killed it permanently - we are exploring producing genre-based specials and continue to tour nationally with a live version of the game.

However, overwhelmingly, our viewers voiced their ambivalence for a game show - any game show, not just UFF - on the network. My theory is that TV audiences are choking on a logjam of reality games shows, and our audience comes here to get away from that.

As to what Greg the Bunny has to do with IFC... Greg started on IFC as an interstitial program - a combination of Film trivia and movie spoofs. The creative team behind Greg are the Rainmen of film knowledge - for the series, they have created spoofs of films like The Godfather, Natural Born Killers, and Fargo.

Our other shows all center on film and the industry, thus creating context for the films we show. Our mandate is to be America's best film exhibitors - to offer a national 24/7/365 film festival. We are creating our series to be not unlike dvd extras for the films. Hopefully, after you've seen them, you'll agree. Having seen them myself, they are milk-out-the-nose funny.

As for Henry's show - it will be on IFC for the foreseeable future. We and our audiences love it, and Henry gets more entertaining every episode.

Harrumph!

Posted by: evan | May 15, 2005 7:30:39 AM

First, thanks for opening up the public dialog that is already unfolding.

Before a career shift to full-time geek/part-time screenwriter, I worked as newspaper columnist. There's a lot of heat that comes with asking folks what the really think, and if I learned nothing else from my experience it's that being thick-skinned is an obvious prerequisiste and you're very often dead wrong. If I was paid as a columnist by the number of times one of my readers made me reconsider my own opinions, I'd still be doing it.

The other thing to consider about any open and infiltered invitation for opinions is that people who complain are some of the readers/viewers who care the most about your success. Yes, there are always those who look for any available stump to spout from. But, the better balance of those who criticize are infinitely more interested and engaged than those who just change the channel.

Listen to the fans, but don't discount the "fanatics". Regular viewers may offer a window on what works, but rabid enthusiasts are often times the magnifying lens on what doesn't.

Also, with respect to Nat, I really dig Dinner for Five. Off-the-cuff conversation about an increasingly insulated industry is interesting to the casual viewer and insightful to the aspiring filmmaker. Hank is equally awesome.

You can however feel free to pass on programming anything with Madonna in it — save Shadows and Fog. (Not that I'm holding a grudge or anything.)

Posted by: JR McMillan | May 15, 2005 11:31:21 AM

love shadows and fog and At Close Range ain't bad either.

this blog is for the fanatics, and believe me, i've got thick skin (you have to in this business).

D45 is (in my opinion) the best talk show on TV, so we're glad you like it.

The goal, though, is to expand IFC's influence beyond the fanatics - no offense, I hope. Reason:

If we don't educate the NEXT generation of film fans - those who love great films and not JUST special effects and comic book heroes - the small films won't get made.

Look at IFC this weekend and you'll see what I mean. We tricked out the network for Z Channel - a docu we commissioned from Xan Cassavetes about the ORIGINAL independent film channel - and a whole host of films you won't see anywhere, any time.

http://www.ifctv.com/ifc/what?CAT0=45&CAT1=6426&CLR=yellow&BCLR=FFCC33&AID=12047

We're showing The 400 Blows, Wild Strawberries, Overlord and the original director's cut of Heaven's Gate. In many cases we had to search down prints from all over the planet to make it happen.

We use new programming and cool modern films to draw in new and younger audiences, and then propagandize them on the stuff they NEED to see.

We're trying to do for the American TV audience what SxSW does for Austin. We ain't perfect, but we are there, everyday, doing what we can to keep indie film alive.

It's folks like you that help us do it - by keeping us honest and by telling your friends and family that we exist.

We appreciate it, and that's why we want to hear what you have to say. Be honest, we can take it.

thanks and peace.

Posted by: evan | May 15, 2005 12:21:56 PM

It's nice to have more of an inside view of why it was decided not to renew UFF. And, I even agree with some of the thoughts involved. I don't think anyone thought the show was flawless, and I always wanted to write something up (maybe even as a group) and what could be done to make the show better.

To most of us, Ultimate Film Fanatic is NOT just a "game show". And, I felt like that during the 1st season, before I was on. The show would be helped greatly if you learned more about the people involved. However, you'd need a longer show.
I don't think I've EVER said something needs to be "more like a reality show", but UFF would be great like that.
I think there's two things about UFF that are integral, and are something that should be looked into.
1) Film Fanatics. Normal people. It gets people interested. They didn't have 2000 people come out for auditions for nothing.
2. Let them win something. It's exciting for the contestants, and for the people that watch the show.
I realize you're working on moving twords scripted shows, but maybe you should think of a way to stick those two basic concepts into a show that does work more with your new overall concept.

I had 50 - 100 of the customers at my store see my episode, and they all seemed to love it. And not just because they go to see their Video Store Guy win money and a TV. They liked seeing the people, hearing them talking with such passion about things they've generally never heard of, and even sort of laughing at them too. Certainly, there were shows on the 1st season that I watched and didn't care at all who won, but I always found the people interesting.

Posted by: Nat Dykeman | May 15, 2005 1:42:37 PM

By the way, bravo on the Z-Channel. I haven't watched it yet, but i tivo'd it. I was anticipating it greatly.
And I didn't mean to slander D45, it's just the one I never get around to watching. I haven't even finished the DVD yet. I was mostly just curious if it's leaving, or if UFF is the only thing affected by the change in programing.

Posted by: Nat Dykeman | May 15, 2005 1:45:59 PM

"UFF" is a game show? No, "Match Game" is a game show. "Hollywood Squares" is a game show. "UFF" is an intellectual challenge for the serious movie lover to prove his or her cred when it comes to cinema. If I want to watch a game show, I'll watch GSN. If I want to share my passion for movies with like minded souls, I'll watch "UFF" and the other original IFC programs.

Posted by: Ecole Etage | May 15, 2005 5:44:57 PM

regardless of whether "ultimate film fanatic" comes back or not and whether it was a great show or not, it was a fantastic opportunity for me and everyone else that went on and we won't forget that. i look forward to reading your blog here and keeping up with what's new at IFC. of course, it may never again reach the highs it did when i hosted in march.

Posted by: chad | May 17, 2005 4:35:00 AM

I've had IFC on and off for almost ten years now. I was spurred to get it again because of the Z Channel weekend, which was fantastic. It's really good to have IFC back again.

I finally watched "Bad Timing" (which has been playing on IFC since the beginning, no?) and wow. What a great film. I was surprised by how good Garfunkel is in it. Keitel's performace is just bizarre, but I can't tell if he was directed that way, or if he's just improved a lot over the years.

Posted by: Andrea | May 17, 2005 12:56:03 PM

So great to hear. We've gotten a great response - to all the films.

you can expect more festivals like that soon.

Posted by: evan | May 17, 2005 9:53:02 PM

Evan...thanks for the FANTASTIC weekend of Z CHANNEL movies..fond rememberances of days past...would be great to have one weekend a month dedicated to Z MOVIES...
again thanks,
trish manning

Posted by: Trish Manning | May 18, 2005 5:59:52 AM

Hey, Trish, thanks!!!

Take a look at the last post - please let us know what you think would make a great on air fest. We've got some good stuff coming, but are always looking for more ideas.

thanks

Posted by: evan | May 21, 2005 6:28:36 PM

I would like info as to how to email Jon Favreau..
I want to suggest he invite Irvin Kershner to be a guest on Dinner For Five, Kershner is funny, intelligent, wise, talented and a great talker.

Posted by: Patricia Casey | May 27, 2005 3:24:40 PM

New subscriber. Good so far,except for one thing........Have NEW Widescreen HDTV @ 16:9, so I hope you will replace my Hitachi if the phosfors ( sic ) create a burn on screen because you show most shows/movies in something other than 1:78.1 Aspect Ratio !

Posted by: Ron | May 28, 2005 12:38:46 AM

Please don't show advertising during the credits. The other night I waited for the credits to identify a song that was in the movie "Amongst Friends". The text was so compressed I could not read it. Besides, I enjoy reading the credits of a movie that I enjoyed. After all, this is a film channel.
Let's give credit where credit is due.
Thanks, Ralph

Posted by: Ralph Marsico | May 28, 2005 7:47:04 PM

Hi,
In the commercial for things coming up this summer on IFC there's a brief clip from a film where an attractive brunette is lying on her stomach in bed and appears to be tied up. They only show her for a moment but she appears to have a very bored expression on her face.
This occurs towards the end of the commercial right after a clip of Greg the Bunny. I'm dying to know what that's from. Could someone help me?

Cheers

Posted by: Roy Munson | May 29, 2005 12:03:48 PM

Damn you. How dare you use the logo "Uncut" when you continually butcher the end of every film you show by cutting in during the credits (uhhh..yah..it's still part of the film) blaring some stupid promo just like every other corporate channel does these days. What gives IFC the right to edit someone else's creation just to squeeze in a couple extra minutes of advertising. What a mood killer. You should be ashamed of yourselves.

Posted by: Rainman | May 30, 2005 9:30:57 AM

HI, I AGREE THAT YOU SHOULDN'T CUT INTO THE ENDING CREDITS. I LIKE MOST OF THE MOVIES SHOWN. BUT IT SEEMS WITH SOME IT'S ONLY ON ONCE & THAT'S IT. OTHERS ARE REPEATED ALOT. PLEASE SHOW RED DRAGON. IT IS ON OTHER CHANNELS BUT I HEARD THEY CUT OUT ALOT. I LIKE TO SEE MOVIES THE WAY THEY ARE ORIGNINALLY. YOU ONLY HAD THE END OF THE AFFAIR ON ONCE THAT I KNOW OF. THERE ARE SOME OTHER GOOD MOVIES (NOW I CAN'T THINK OF THE NAMES) THAT WERE ONLY ON ONCE OR TWICE. THANKS FOR READING THIS. TAKE CARE, JUDY K.

Posted by: JUDY K. | May 30, 2005 4:01:24 PM

I love IFC which we get on Cox Cable but we can't watch it anymore because for some reason the audio portion is continually disrupted. In fact, we can only really hear every other word of most movies on IFC. This does not happen on any other channel on our Cox service, so either Cox doesn't want us to watch you or there is an issue that you need to resolve with Cox.

Hope you fix it soon! Would love to start watching you again!

Posted by: Mary W. | May 30, 2005 4:56:50 PM

I appreciate your music themed shows like Year of the Horse. Would like to see some film footage of festivals like the recent Coachella Festival.

Posted by: Bob Pratt | Jun 1, 2005 12:28:29 AM

I love IFC (and have for years), but I am so disappointed that you've seen fit to plaster garish ads for upcoming events on the screen before a film's end credits have run their course. Please rethink this policy and get rid of it. It's not only an affront to the filmmakers, butchering their art, it also deprives the viewer of a reasonable opportunity to read the credits to see who did what, who played what role, who sang what song, etc. The "IFZ" weekend was wonderful: no logo in the lower right hand corner to distract the viewer's attention and no interruption of the end credits! Why can't IFC be more like the Z Channel all the time?

Posted by: Dave Ingram | Jun 1, 2005 4:07:20 AM

Some of you might still remember me from all the emails over the years, especially those about your habit of not identifying whether you are screening in LBX or PS. Virtually everyone does that, now, even Showtime, so what's the big deal? Is this a commercial trap, trying to trick people into watching the same movie over and over again, looking for that one time a month when you show the LBX version (which you have done so often). Other times you just show the PS version, only, despite the fact that you have had the LBX version on during previous months/years. So what's the deal? Why can't you identify when you are doing it (a purely bureaucratic matter, at best, making a notation on your schedule entries) and why do you make such funky choices about whether or not to show LBX (although I can understand if a distributor wants you showing it one way or the other)? Also, don't you have a library, or are you totally dependent on months-long commitments from distributors for the films you will be showing in "This Cycle". Ex: Ten years or so ago you showed films like "Strozek". Is that no longer available to you? Exactly what is it, as you mentioned earlier, that you have to do to track these things down, beyond just hitting your "Favorites" button and looking it up on iMDB? Sorry if I sound cynical or something, but especially after your comment about responding to people, and the fact that 1) in nearly ten years of writing I've never been responded to ONCE and 2) most of these new blog postings are not being responded to... well, you get the picture. Plus, you Rainbow Brother, AMC, a station I used to cherish for its integrity (Bob Doran and Nick Clooney set the pattern for TCM), has now lost its cable mind and turned into NBC Tuesday Night at the Movies. Don't you think so, or are you not allowed to express opinions re your coroporate collaborators?

Posted by: alan | Jun 1, 2005 10:04:04 AM

...and now that I'm thinking of it, what about your comment re "true to our core mission"? What about a Samuel Fuller Fest? How long has it been since IFC even broadcast a Fuller film? I can remember in the Day...Tim Robbins, Quentin Tarantino, a special doc (The Typewriter and the Rifle) as if Fuller were an important icon to independent film. Wim Wenders? Herzog? Von Trier? Wertmueller? WERTMUELLER!!

Posted by: alan | Jun 1, 2005 11:32:44 AM

Holy shit. I haven't checked this post for a few days and look what happens!

I will try to address all of your comments - pardon me if I skip one or two - I will get back to them.

First, and most importantly, why we squeeze credits...

This concept grew out of our surveys of viewers - like you, real, actual fans of IFC. From thousands of interviews with thousands of viewers, over several months, we found that the vast majority of viewers:

1. Do not watch credits for most films
2. Did not know what was on IFC, at what time
3. WOULD watch the credits, if we include information about what was on, when.

So, we started adding that information to the side of the credits. We do this in order to tell viewers when they can find new and interesting films, that they might not otherwise find, and to point out our own great programming, like Z Channel and the Z Weekend.

Many of our viewers have only recently started receiving IFC - or even digital cable. Basically, we use that valuable space to make our programming schedule more clear and user-friendly.

And it works. More people watched IFC this May - for Pulp Indies, our Cannes coverage and the Z weekend - than for any May in many years. More people knew about and watched “The 400 Blows” and “Bad Timing” and the director's cut of “Heaven's Gate”, than would have otherwise - at least partly because of how we promoted it.

We do not put audio in credits if there is dialogue or important music, and we do not squeeze credits with any kind of visual or story element. Also, based on comments from viewers like you, we have created a "do not touch" list of films that NEVER get squeezed.

Is it perfect? NO! Does it help new audiences find new indie films, and therefore, grow the overall audience for these films? Yes. THAT is our mission, after all.

If any of you have any other ideas on how to accomplish these goals, PLEASE send them our way. We are constantly trying to improve the network and make IFC the best film exhibitor in cable and beyond.

Other networks do the credit squeeze thing, I know. But none of them have our commitment to the kinds of films IFC shows, and to showing them uncensored, unedited and uncut, 24/7/365.

As to the IFC "bug" burning your screen... It should not - we have designed it as a semi-transparent logo so it will not. It is there to let people know where they are, and to remind them where to find great films, uncut.

Given that we have a grand total of 10 breaks per programming day - these are two of the very few techniques available to us to promote what it is we do.

And, I think a Sam Fuller Fest is a cool idea. We are exploring an uncut classic strand to address these very tastes.

Thank you all for your passion and for keeping us honest!

Posted by: evan | Jun 1, 2005 8:47:31 PM

Why is diffcult for me to find the short film called "Lovely"? It aired in 2000 and 2001. It was three short flicks at in one. The other one was an animated short about a killer clowne I think or a puppet? And the last one was about an elderly married man who had a crush on a young school girl who constantly annoyed her. Does anyone remember these? I wanted to purchase them if I could. Help me out if you can Thanks A Heap!!

Posted by: M. | Jun 2, 2005 12:05:26 AM

According to our crack programming staff, you may actually be referring to 3 different short films, that ran as part of a Shorts block.

The one about the old man with a crush on a young girl is called "The Pesky Suitor".

The short titled "Lovely", is about a tea girl, an executive and a dancing toy turtle.

The short about a clown, is called "Das Clown" by Tom E Brown.

We have a rotation of short films in our library, which appear on the network as part of our Shorts program each month, and as stand alone plays, where the schedule permits. As always, we show them uncensored and uncut.

If you like "The Pesky Suitor", you should check "Blink of Paradise", also directed by Karen Young. It's playing this summer on IFC.

Posted by: evan | Jun 2, 2005 10:15:16 AM

To Alan - we are not always able to control what versions of films we get. We always ask for the LBX version of films and prefer to air all of our films in LBX.

We will - per your great suggestion - attempt to include LBX (or lack there of) on our schedule online. We do not control the listsings in the TV guides or the digital guides. We would LOVE to, believe me.

Posted by: evan | Jun 2, 2005 10:35:23 PM

I just want to clap clap clap for Dinner for Five. I SO love that show. In fact, even though I had seen the first two seasons, I rented them again on Netflix. They are great to watch a second time because I always hear things I didn't the first time. That show just rocks, as does he.

Tonight, I saw that Dogtown and Z-Boys was airing following Dinner for Five. I never would have thought to watch that except that Peralta was such an interesting guest. So I stuck around to watch it and it's very cool. Kudos for running that right behind DFF. I would never have given it a shot.

Wild Strawberries and 400 Blows. Geez, way to create my dream programming.

But hey, I agree with the folks complaining about the squeezed credits. Film fans, whom as you know are IFC fans, are very interested. That's a ridiculous practice started by Disease of the Week network made for TV movies, or features shown on networks. Please don't perpetuate it.

Posted by: Denise | Jun 2, 2005 10:45:04 PM

Denise...

Thanks so much for the nice words about D45 and the Dogtown stunt... Dogtown is a GREAT doc - and the new Lords of Dogtown is awesome too.

About the squeezes - see the latest post on the main page of the blog.

Thanks again!

Posted by: evan | Jun 2, 2005 11:54:52 PM

I did read it, in fact I read the whole blog before I posted. I still agree with the others :)

Posted by: Denise | Jun 3, 2005 9:50:18 AM

Can't get enough of Dinner for Five...why keep changing times and showing re-runs?

Posted by: Ruby Romaine | Jun 3, 2005 10:12:30 AM

Please show the movie, "Once More, with Feeling" starring Yul Brynner and Kay Kendall--made in 1960 by Stanley Donen.

This movie was never put on video or DVD so the only way to see it is on a movie channel.

Please tell me when you will show it so I can watch it.
You have a great movie channel!
Thanks!
Eydie Eskridge --eeskridge@yahoo.com

Posted by: Eydie Eskridge | Jun 3, 2005 2:29:48 PM

Every one of you scheduled Pulp Movies has been re-run dozens of times already! Give us something NEW for a change!

Posted by: Montie Pierce | Jun 3, 2005 2:41:23 PM

Jackie Brown, Reservoir Dogs and Blade Runner are all IFC premieres.

Many of the other titles - At Close Range and Auto Focus, for example - are titles that recently came to the network.

The others, as you point out, are classic Pulp favorites, which many viewers had been asking for - thus the Pulp Month festival.

If you are looking primarily for our new stuff - i would check out Cinema Red on Mondays at 9e/10p or Escape from Hollywood on Wednesdays and Sundays at 9 e/p. We showcase Premieres in both.

Posted by: evan | Jun 3, 2005 2:58:37 PM

Ruby,

Love that you love D45. The show has been on Fridays at 10 e/p for more than a year. This week, we decided to create a special stunt, because of the Dogtown tie-in. That could only be done on Thursday, for many reasons - one being Pulp Indies.

This move also allowed us to put create a special night tonight - with a Pulp edition of Henry's Film Corner (with Mr. Blonde himself, Michael Madsen), and our special ode to Tarantino's classic - Reservoir Dogs Revisted.

Eydie, we will look into "Once More with Feeling".

Thanks

Posted by: evan | Jun 3, 2005 3:07:30 PM

How about a 1/2 devoted to really (really) indie undergroung pix? Like...

www.SideshowMovie.com

I realize that star-driven indie pix have marquee value--and have elevated the indie genre overall. But IFC can bank some street cred if you're the ONLY place to find the most bizzare, unusual and downright strange stuff. Better yet--just air the highlights.

Jane, producer/director of a really, really strange and unusual doc with no agenda whatsoever.

Posted by: Jane | Jun 3, 2005 3:07:52 PM

and more Dinner for Five.

Posted by: jane | Jun 3, 2005 3:09:17 PM

Send in the doc, we are very into weird here.

best to go through the webmaster for the site: info@ifctv.com, and mention this post.

Posted by: evan | Jun 3, 2005 3:17:07 PM

Will do. Thanks. Jane

Posted by: Jane | Jun 3, 2005 3:24:11 PM

Samurai Saturday--please no more Ichi!

Unless y'all are going to change the name of Samurai Saturday to Zatoichi Saturday, can we return to the other fine films you have shown in the past? I'd love to see Kiru! again! Ichi-san is a fine character, but 6 months of him is a waaaay too much.

-ml

Posted by: Mike | Jun 3, 2005 6:09:40 PM

It would be very nice if the schedule posted
on your website was accurate.

Posted by: Don Grissom | Jun 3, 2005 6:49:31 PM

ml, i will talk to acquisitions about Kiru as a breather from Ichi. Thanks!

Don, is there a specific part of the schedule that was inaccurate? It does happen - changes to the schedule are inevitable, and the sked is not automated on the website - yet...

Rest assured, we ARE working towards that - as well as full credits for every film we show on the site.

Let us know what day was wrong. thanks!

Posted by: evan | Jun 3, 2005 9:30:52 PM

there was a short on last night about a little girl who wanted the rabbit toy that was being given to another little girl. can you tell me what this is called and when it will be one again?

thanks

Posted by: patricia | Jun 3, 2005 10:49:22 PM

Zatoichi - Blind Swordsman, Love the series, Watch it every Saturday morning, Please continue showing the series as long as possible, have purchased the DVDs....Thanks IFC PS. I also enjoy all the other foreign films. Please show more of the older Chinese and Japanese films.

Posted by: Mentat-Jake | Jun 4, 2005 9:47:10 AM

Not that I think one voice can make a difference, but.....

I used to think quite a bit of IFC, but no longer. The net is a pile of phosphor fecal matter.

Why, you may ask. They have sold out to the corporate paradigm of totally trashing the endings of ALL the feature films for the purpose of shilling their wares.

I'd expect the likes of Encore to do such a classless unprofessional, greedy maneuver, but thought IFC above such cheap & rude behavior. Figured they'd grok that the WHOLE of a film IS an experience from opening shot to the last credit, with any attendant Easter egg. That they'd acknowledge a filmmaker's choice of visual mood and music even through the end credits. And not dumb it down and in so doing betray the indie look & feel of the channel, its trademark, its raison d'etre, the very DNA of its branding. They render themselves inert and the discriminating viewer looking towards Sundance for quality indie content. Where films are treated with the hallowed respect that they should. I note that this cacophony of advertising that disgorges all over a feature's denouement does not seem to be present over the end credits of non-feature channel programming such as Henry Rollins' show, where there IS no mood or art to actually ruin.

I mean how can one watch the end of "Glengarry Glen Ross", with that beautiful jazz track with Jarreau scatting it up only to be steamrolled by that garish graphic with the tawdry klaxon of promo music. Dammit, any viewer who is your target viewer is watching the channel fairly routinely and pretty much knows it is Pulp Month by watching any interstitial spots.

DF5 and Rollins may be the only things worth watching the channel for any more, but frankly I dunno if I can get too up to dialing into 550 anymore. Sigh....

I am just glad I taped all the "Greg The Bunny"s when Fox first aired them.

Astonishingly outrageous and fully infuriating.

In the highest of dudgeon, a former IFC fan,
Rex Stocklin
Fishers, IN

PS: Some fave films that have been "ruined" by your vulgar practice:

"The Ice Storm"
"Reservoir Dogs"
"The Sweet Hereafter"
"Salvador"
"American History X"
"Next Stop Wonderland"
"Affliction"
"Mr. Jealousy"

Posted by: Rex Stocklin | Jun 5, 2005 3:49:00 AM

First, Rex, I have to compliment you on working "phosphor fecal matter" into your comment. Anyone with that varied a vocabulary must be respected.

But - as I've written previously - running information only in-between films does not work. More than 80% of our viewers tell us they start surfing the moment credits roll.

Assuming that our viewers are teling us the truth... it means they do not know that we've got "At Close Range" on tom'w night, or "Night At The Golden Eagle" on two nights from now, or "Blade Runner" on June 10th, or Auto Focus on June 29 (all uncensored and uncut) - unless we tell them *while* they're watching.

(If you've ever seen Natasha Lyonne in that movie, you'd know why I think it's relevant - check out her out on main page @ ifctv.com, by clicking the link).

We run promos along side credits for two reasons:

1 - the overwhelming majority (again, 80%) of our viewers don't watch the credits UNLESS we have the promos;

2 - they work.

If either of these things weren't true, we wouldn't do it.

In order to maintain our position on the cable boxes around the country, we need to build our audience. The cable operators don't much care about great films, they care about a network's relevance to their subscribers - something we must continually prove to them we have.

Thus credit squeezes.

Look at the other cable networks, and you will see a difference. While we all may squeeze, our committment to great indie films - uncensored and uncut - is unequalled.

The films you list in your comment proves my point (as well as your great taste in film). Where else on tv will you even find that list of films on a schedule - or (for that matter) have the oportunity to participate in this debate?

We love the passion you bring - no other audience in cable cares this much. I hope understand, and (despite the squeezes), stay tuned in.

Thanks for that passion, Rex, and for keeping us honest.

Posted by: evan | Jun 5, 2005 11:01:07 AM

Was just wondering why NOBODY ever plays
the Original version of Blade Runner.
I can't find it online or off line, only the Directors cut, which I personally don't care for. So if it is possible for your channel to find the original, PLEASE PLEASE play it for us fans.

Thanks,
Rabbitt

Posted by: AKRABBITT | Jun 6, 2005 5:28:01 AM

Thanks for this forum. I hope the overwhelming amount of negative feedback here doesn't deter you from maintaining it.

Also just want to say to the naysayers that while IFC doesn't get it right every time, it gets it right more than others and offers an array of films that would otherwise never get seen.

Plus I have to say I was ADDICTED to the original program "Film School" and hope you are going to do more episodes at other universities.

Take care,

Bill

PS -- Does it undercut my validity any if I ask you to run my film CHARMING BILLY at times other than just the 4:30am & 6:00am slots you're currently using?
;->

Posted by: Bill | Jun 6, 2005 10:44:00 AM

My only interest in movies are BBC productions and IFC.
BRAVO! I never cease to be enthralled by the films watched on IFC, alas occassionally BBC has dissapointed.I am eager to see Wes Bentley again on screen, it has been too long! The fact behind the movie premise sounds very intriguing.
Kudos IFC and keep them coming(:

Posted by: pat migliore | Jun 7, 2005 2:42:40 AM

man...i feel cheated. that reservoir dogs revisited special was lame. there were very few comments from cast and crew. mostly just a bunch of people that i dont know or care about, babbling. I watched, hoping to pick up some tidbits of info that i didnt know...(and that i might care about) instead i just saw a few sets of breasts, and found out that some comedians, bulesque dancers, and...random people...liked parts of the movie! yippee! that was worth a half hour of my life to find out! i would have had more fun sitting here talking to a friend and going back and forth "yeah..the first few minutes they're just talking.." "yeah..the movie is funny" "mr blonde is crazy" "mr pink talks a lot"
man...you should describe that special more accurately. it's...terrible.

Posted by: laura | Jun 7, 2005 10:28:34 AM

Why dont ya'll make "CAMP" a series? I think it wpuld do betta that way. It's very interesting to watch, Vlad's love triangle thingy-ma-bob. Maybe it's because I'm a teen myself. And all those kids in that movie can sing! I wish I had that one girl(D) singing voice, and them otha peoples tap moves.

Posted by: Wanga | Jun 7, 2005 6:43:40 PM

Evan,
Why no silent films on IFC?

Posted by: John Alden Lyons | Jun 8, 2005 5:10:27 PM

Silent Films? Besides all of the legal reasons why Public Domain films are are a hassle, Silents might be an interesting idea.

Bill, let me look into Charming Billy, but scheduling hates it when i meddle too much - they are the experts.

We are considering Film School at other universities, but are concentrating on four new scripted series right now, three of which come out this August - and all 3 about the film industry.

They are really great... stay tuned here for more info this week.

Posted by: evan | Jun 8, 2005 11:28:37 PM

Evan,

Thanks for looking into CHARMING BILLY's scheduling issues. I'm sure your marketing people are experts ... but a little meddling never hurt anyone, yes?
;->

Glad to hear that there will be more FILM SCHOOLS! I teach film at the New School and made watching the first one mandatory!

Looking forward to checking out the new series this August; maybe they'll become mandatory watching too.

Thanks,

Bill

Posted by: Bill | Jun 10, 2005 9:07:20 AM

there was a short on last night about a little girl who wanted the rabbit toy that was being given to another little girl. can you tell me what this is called and when it will be one again?

thanks

Posted by: patricia | Jun 10, 2005 7:36:07 PM

Bladerunner, Birthday Girl and a lot of other films IFC runs are high-budget mainstream movies, not independent films. I'd let to see IFC get more into the real spirit of programming truly independent, hard-to-find movies, both domestic and foreign, in all genres from the past 50 years.

Posted by: Elliot James | Jun 10, 2005 10:27:21 PM

Just curious about the website layout. While I'm a fan of IFC, I find this website a bit lacking. Any plans to do any changes? I've been asked to join IFC, sign up for the Newsletter, sign up for the Insider Newsletter, asked to unsubscribe from having monthly schedules e-mailed to me but don't see where to subscribe for montly e-mail schedules (which would be great since I am working most of the time on my computer so by the time I get home, I'm ready to just chill and let my confined mind roam freely unbounded. Also, other than the schedule sections (which are great), none of the other links really give much info on what they're for or what to do. Kudos for putting so many great movies out there for those of us who like to look beyond the rose colored glasses.

Posted by: Brandy | Jun 10, 2005 11:33:00 PM

Please, Please, Please, Please, Please, Please, Please, Please, Please, Please, Please, Please, Please, Please,
DO NOT run yhe Director's cut of Blade Runner ever again!!!!!!!!!!!! The narrated version is MUCH better!

Posted by: Shannon | Jun 11, 2005 1:01:34 AM

Posted by: Shannon | Jun 11, 2005 1:01:58 AM

Patricia, the short about the girl with the bunny is called "Bun Bun" - we think you may have seen it elsewhere last night, we haven't had it in a while.

Brandy, thanks for your feedback on the site - i will give directly to the webmaster!!! We are constantly upgrading and improving the site - most notablly to put forth even more content.

In coming weeks, we'll have a complete listings of all film credits for all films we air.

Also, we'll be launching a Blog Jam - writers from all over competing to be our IFC NEWS reporters. And, we'll be creating a place to submit, watch and vote for short films. This is all still not announced, so you heard it here first!!! Shhh!

As to our film selection, Elliot, I think our mix is more diverse than you portray. Look at Samurai Saturdays, on this morning, "The Cup", "The Road Home" and "Talk To Her", all on tomorrow.

That said, we are listening, and foreign and rarely seen indies are going to be a continual part of our schedule, as we are planning weekly strands to house and find them.

Thanks!!!!

Posted by: evan | Jun 11, 2005 7:11:54 PM

Past Bava and Argento specials were sensational. For that IFC deserves high marks.

Posted by: Elliot James | Jun 11, 2005 9:12:18 PM

Evan, in regards to John Alden Lyons request to silent movies, I second that motion. Any great film officianado appreciates silent works. As with anything in history, to really appreciate art and where & how it is today and how much it has advanced through time, you have to appreciate it's humble beginnings. I would love to see some silent films on IFC! I'm sure most younger viewers (unless true film fans) would tune out but, it's hard to please everybody at the same time. Funny, I was actually meaning to ask about this last night in writing about "Nadja".

Posted by: Brandy | Jun 13, 2005 8:15:27 PM

Just a quick line to let you know that "Fur on the Asphalt" was the funniest thing I've seen on tv in a long long time. I thought I used to like Greg the Bunny on network tv - I had no idea what I was missing. I'll be eagerly awaiting anything new from this writing team. Great channel!!!

Posted by: Michael Gordy | Jun 13, 2005 9:25:29 PM

Any chance a t-shirt or two from the "Pulp Indies" contest will be for sale for us fans? Alota those shirt designs are hella cool I must say. Shame to see them just fade away. Free advertising at least. Say, how come you guys don't sell some gear?

Posted by: David | Jun 14, 2005 9:46:47 AM

Evan, thanks for the personal response, direct and to (some of) my point. Honestly, I was blown away that someone is finally paying attention, not just to me, but to all of us. Although I don't agree with all that has been said, I have to agree with Bill...I've been very critical of so many things about IFC over the years, but in no way does that mean my respect, my need and my passion for what you do overall is lessened. For me, IFC, Sundance and TCM ARE FILM. Living in the boonies--so far from a real place that we can't even get a broadcast TV channel (our county doesn't even have a cable or broadcast channel...not even a daily newspaper...and the weekly is an advertiser..and our only theater, "The Princess" only shows G rated movies Wed-Sat...I hope you get the picture (no pun), and all of this we have fallen into after birth, growing up and reaching adulthood in NYC, San Francisco and Denver...Gosh, I miss things like Elvis Mitchell's interview series, your showings of older classics like Michael Powell's films...and the older shorts (face it, Evan, you DO NOT change your shorts programs every month; how many times can we watch "Blue City" and "D.O.T"? Thanks, though, for a (I think) completely new Showcase hour this month...but the four hours of Collection I and II have been rerunning for months and months in different groupings..."Have You Seen This Man" has been broadcast so many times that you should retitle it "Haven't You Seen This Short and do you really still care about selling a paperclip for 15 cents?" You know, it's kind of like one of those old Frances Marion plots, or a Dumas novel, where some poor soul is stuck in a prison with one book and has to read it over and over and over... There's more to a prison than stone and bars, babe. But, absolutely, thanks for being there to respond and do something, Evan. Gosh, we love you, man.

Posted by: alan asnen | Jun 14, 2005 12:40:16 PM

While channel surfing a few nights ago, I stumbled upon Henry the macho tattoo freak bash the Pope. He seemed to be villifying all religions, but selected the Pope for his anti-religious rant. I was really impressed with his Pope-bashing bravado, but then though - hey, if he really wanted to impress his audience, he should denounce Islam and Mohammed during his show. Posting his home address and phone number on the TV while bashing Islam would certainly convince me he's not just your every-day, run-of-the-mill, neck-size-larger-than-IQ, coward in wolf's clothing.

Posted by: Xpat | Jun 14, 2005 2:47:32 PM

Dear IFC,

Thank you for showing Reservoir Dogs uncut. I love that movie and it is the essence of great independent film making. I am okay with squeezing the credits as you say, so long as you continually show good films. Also, I love the Henry Rollins Show and think that it is the most refreshing thing on TV. Great guests, great rants and Rollins is as smart as he is righteous. I wish they were on more than once a month. Can you ask him to do more? I think IFC should do a month on 1st films. You show today's stars first films. I bet you would find many of those to be Independents. Okay, keep up the great work. It is the one channel besides the news that keeps things cool.

Brian Schatz
Fresno, California
"Walk to no beat at all"

Posted by: Brian Schatz | Jun 14, 2005 5:56:39 PM

first, i invite you all to the viewer-controlled thread at the top of the blog, so that even more people see your amazing posts and perhaps chime in...

2. Brandy, we will HAVE to look into silent films - two articulate posts cannot be ignored. There are some sensitivities about silents (the cable companies we rely on for delivery do not tend to like them, and the public domain stuff is very messy at times), but we will give it a full debate back here.

3. Michael G, SOOOO fucking happy you liked the Greg special. the viewer reaction was so good, we've rescheduled it more times until the new stuff hits in august... tell friends!!!!!!!!!! (look to the home page tom'w for new air times).

4. David - we WILL make the top-most voted for t-shirts available for purchase. We will be making way more merch available soon in a new store, as well. My sidekick, JC is also working on a plan to send some cool shit to all of you bloggers who post on this page (even those who call me an asshole). shhhh!!!! Don't tell anyone.

5. Alan A - WE TOTALLY AGREE on th shorts. What we are doing now in shorts is assembling a better library, with more rights to each film, so we can show more on the web AND on IFC. We are launching something VERY cool that will have on-air/online access, and give tons of new, young filmmakers an outlet for their stuff. I think you'll be blown away. Expect an announcement soon.

7. Alan A again - we don't expect you to agree with everything we do... there is simply no way to make EVERYONE happy all of the time - especially in something as subjective as film AND tv. We just want you to all know we ARE listening, and making decisions with your opinions ringing in our ears/minds. Keep keeping us honest, though - the only way you will be heard is if you SAY SOMETHING!!!

6. Xpat - We are Uncut. We hired Henry to do a show. He shows up every month, does the show and blows his audience away. He has opinions - they are his, not ours - and he is more than entitled to them, as you are to yours. It would not be very independent or uncut of us to censor Henry, so we don't. If Henry's rants offend you, we apologize, and accept that you may not watch him in the future, while others do.

Henry's at henry@ifctv.com - he reads every email religiously, and would LOVE to get one from you. In fact, if it's well written, I imagine he'd read it on air, uncut.

7. Xpat again - Brian's comment is exactly why America is great. Brian loves Henry, and - because he lives here - he can choose to watch it. The debate is what's important - vital - and that's what Henry stirs.

8. Brian - Henry's season is winding down in September and we are talking to him about a new season in 2006, and more shows are part of the consideration. There are many factors at play, but (as you may be able to tell) we think Henry KICKS ASS too, and will try to give him some more real estate on IFC.

Thanks everyone - please keep it coming!!!!

Posted by: evan | Jun 15, 2005 12:20:22 AM

Twice, the Romero doc on the making of Land of the Dead was supposed to show and twice it was some useless show. Thanks a lot. Time to cancel IFC unless I really want to see Reservoir Dogs for like the 800 millionth time...

Posted by: Dub Sinister | Jun 15, 2005 2:37:28 AM

Please don't misunderstand. I never said or implied that Henry should be censored or that I would not watch programming because of a view he or anyone else holds. I was simply suggesting that if Henry want to take his macho POS image to a highter level, he shouldn't waste his time bashing the Pope who is a rather benign figure. Anyone can do that. I would be much more impressed if he used his medium to denounce Mohammed and Islam. That would be more provocative, get him greater publicity, add some excitement to his show, and prove to one and all what a tough guy he really is.

Posted by: Xpat | Jun 15, 2005 6:02:00 AM

Ahhh, politics and religion - two subjects that could get anyone in a shitload of toe-jam.

I think we would all denounce the most zealous fundamentalism that exists in any ideologoy - religion or otherwise - which encourages hatred and war.

However, denouncing whole religions because of the acts of its most radical extremist factions is also a slippery slope.

I agree, Xp, that Henry should answer your questions about his Pope Rant, and I encourage you to email him. I do not think he would shy away from a good debate.

I am glad to see you see why we offer him a venue, without a filter. Pure, uncut Henry is worth watching... even if you don't agree with what he says.

Posted by: evan | Jun 15, 2005 8:26:44 AM

I love movies and love your channel. However, last night I got so p----- at IFC, that if it was a pay station, I would discontinue it from my cable services. I had recorded Blade Runner, a classic I had never seen. It was nicely letterboxed, but in the corner, in the black area of the screen, was your PULP INDIES/IFC logo. Because the film was letterboxed and the logo so large, it distracted my eye during the whole film. Why is it necessary to show that logo? You have nothing to sell me so why do you have to remind me I'm watching IFC? I've come to somewhat accept the use of the bottom of the TV screen for promotions, but this one just pushed me over the line. Minimally, you should discontinue the logo on letter boxed films. Or flash it up periodically if you absolutely have to. Instead of making me what to watch your channel more, it's having the opposite affect.
Thanks for listening,
CB

Posted by: Chris B | Jun 15, 2005 9:59:56 AM

The bug is there for one reason: misattribution.

In the 500 channel universe, it is near impossible ensure viewers remember where they see stuff. Even the film fanatics who populate this blog ask us about films they THINK they saw on IFC, but actually aired elsewhere.

It's bruising to the ego, but it's part of the business we're in. To ensure our viewers know where they saw that great Pulp title, indie favorite, original doc or new series, we try to subtly plant our brand in their heads.

We are totally open to other ideas about how to get it done. However, when we flash it on and off, we hear that it's too distracting. When we don't animate at all, we hear that it's burning some tvs.

We will work on some other iterations, and welcome any other ides you've got.

Thanks!

Posted by: evan | Jun 15, 2005 6:23:58 PM

Henry Rollins has been "programmed" to rant and rave, criticize and judge the easiest and most targeted figure in the religious world by his "Hollywood" bosses. The self-proclaimed "anti-man" certainly wouldn't DARE to make those same prejudicial and biggoted statements against the "Head" Rabbi, Kaballahist or Scientologist!

Though many may not have cared about who the next Pope would be, I for one don't care to hear the incessant interviews and stories for weeks about the Tom Cruise-Katie Holmes "love affair", Britney Spears-Kevin Federline "baby love", Rene Zellweger's "shot-gun" wedding, etc.

Henry, tough guy "anti-man", where are your anti-semetic views? Yeah, you wouldn't have a show, career or job if you commented on anything negative against Jews. Although I remember Roseanne Barr mentioning in an early interview that the people in Hollywood were "horrible" and "sexist" -- I wonder what ever happened to her?!

Posted by: Bruce | Jun 16, 2005 5:36:39 AM

While I would not ever describe myself as Henry's "boss", as the guy who signs the checks that keeps his show on the air, I can assure you that Henry has not been programmed by ANYONE, least of all by his "bosses" in Hollywood.

First of all, we aren't based in Hollywood, we're based in NY. Secondly, he does not ever ask for - nor do we seek - approval over his editorial rants.

Lastly, if you listened closely, Henry was not ranting over the Pope himself, he was commenting on what HE sees as the hypocracy of a religion that damns people to Hell for masturbation, while spending millions to defend priests who are accused of molesting children.

We don't ask you to agree with him - we don't always agree with him either - but you cannot deny his right to editorialize in what ostensibly is still a free country.

If you have any issues with Henry's rants, please feel free to write him directly at henry@ifctv.com.

What happened t Rosanne? Last I recall she made two crapy TV shows at once for ABC and found herself in limbo - the place where overexposed celebs go to rest.

Posted by: evan | Jun 16, 2005 7:40:56 AM

Okay... you guys totally dropped the ball TWICE with the Romero special!!! I stayed up late on a worknite on Tuesday to catch it, only to have it pre-empted AGAIN by that "At The IFC show".... I am more than super-pissed off with you guys right now!!! How can you guys suck twice like that??? BTW, while we are talking indie-horror, you guys did great Bava and Argento specials... how about a special about Lucio Fulci??? His cult following is HUGE and he has impacted much of the indie-horror scene that is going on today.
Back to the "Land Of The Dead" special... get it together IFC!!! You guys are letting down a lot of us!!!!

Posted by: Mike | Jun 16, 2005 4:45:40 PM

Thank you Brandy for the silent film second.

Thank you Evan for playing Witchcraft Though the Ages and Knife in the Water in the past week. Still, I was wondering if more films from before 1980 could be played. During the next week, out of the thirty-four movies IFC is showing (not counting shows or 'documentaries' created by IFC), only two were made before 1980: Witchcraft through the Ages and Blind Swordsman #11: Zatoichi and The Doomed Man. The previous week there were three pre-1980's films (Knife in the Water, Blind Swordsman #10: Zatoichi's Revenge, and Witchcraft through the Ages) shown out of thirty three. Is it difficult to ascertain movies from before 1980 or is it a marketing choice? Maybe it's because it's pulp month (though I'm sure pre-1980's pulp can be found). Is it possible for the ratio to change?

Posted by: John Alden Lyons | Jun 16, 2005 5:18:33 PM

Mike - mea culpa!!! But I've mea-culping for days now. The doc came in late, we wanted to make sure the premiere airing was of the best quality. We aired it last night - don't tell me you missed it!!!!

We're airing a ton more this month and will add more to the schedule in July as well. Go here for the complete airing sked:

http://www.ifctv.com/ifctvflash/media/ifc_pulp_flash/dead.html

John - have I got the stunt for you!!! 80's Horror week. It's coming this August and it is (as the kids say) da bomb.

We're playing with the mix all the time and it seems that 80's films and a wider array of Samurai films are in big demand. Look for them, if you don't see them, WRITE ME.

*Also, please make sure you go list your favorite websites in the latest post - we're giving away free shit!*

Posted by: evan | Jun 16, 2005 7:24:18 PM

I've recently noticed that IFC seems to be 'competing' with national big networks - regarding credit cramming. I'm a little tired of watching movies, noting a few items that I'd like to check in the ending credits (such as the director, music, actors) ONLY to find that you smash and squish the credits until they are totally illedgible just so you can ADVERTISE the next movie starting or PULP WEEK. I think it's tasteless, annoying, and mass market. Maybe you are losing the 'I' in IFC (your independence). Please stop and let the credits roll like they are supposed to. Watchers can check the TV Guide channel or you can run a regular commercial when it's your turn.
Thanks for listening.

Posted by: Kathie | Jun 16, 2005 11:10:43 PM

Thanks, Kathie. I've addressed this at length, in two posts - Why We Squeeze Parts I & II.

We use the credits to promote other programs, because it is the best real estate we have to do it. We surveyed our audience, and found that more than 80% of our viewers DO NOT watch the credits. *The majority of those who don’t, WOULD, if we include information about what's on IFC.*

Believe me, we are not trying to emulate other networks, we simply want to let viewers know "if you like this movie, you might also like this..."

That said, we have used viewer input, like yours, to tweak how we use the credits. We have created a "NEVER TO BE SQUEEZED" list of films that have extra scenes or relevant music in the credits. Also, we have started the squeezes later, after the major creative credits roll.

And, beginning next week, we will be using a new technology for our credit promos, which will keep the type of the credits MUCH larger and always legible.

And - coming soon - we will make the credits for all our films available on our website.

You may not agree with the technique - and I respect that - but it is far and away the most effective way for IFC to promote our films, and grow the audience for indie films in general.

Other networks may use the same technique, but few of them show great movies uncensored, unedited and uncut, and none of them have IFC’s commitment to indie films and the artists who make them.

Thanks for your passion and for keeping us honest!

Posted by: evan | Jun 17, 2005 8:30:32 AM

Evan, thank you so much for responding so quickly. Unfortunately, I sent my posting before I had found all the other postings regarding the same issue, not realizing that it had already been addressed.

Although I don't agree with the 80% majority viewers that don't read the credits, I'm glad the issue is being somewhat addressed. I've been a big fan of IFC for as long as we've received it (thanks to DirecTV). As long as I will be able to at least read the credits, avoiding as much as possible the distractions, it will do.

As far as picking and choosing 'Never to be squeezed' movies' - that's tough. Sometimes you don't know in advance that you'll enjoy or be interested in the cast or production of an independent movie. That WAS the beauty of IFC now, wasn't it????

Posted by: Kathie | Jun 17, 2005 7:19:19 PM

First, I have to say I love the channel in general, even though I'm about to gripe like everyone else. I was just wondering, didn't you formerly have a repeat showing of Dinner for Five? I always seem to forget when it's on and missing this weeks episode really bugged me as I'm a huge Kevin Smith fan. It would be awesome if you could have a second chance showing on Tuesdays or something in order for fans to have a chance to catch up or rewatch a particularly good episode. Do you plan on repeating all of the episodes of this season? If so, when would they begin showing? Anyways, just thought I'd throw in my unrequested two cents. Thanks.

Posted by: Matt | Jun 17, 2005 11:02:39 PM

Evan... you are forgiven for the "Land Of the Dead" special. Now, back to the other thing I brought up... LUCIO FULCI. This would be the knockout punch for Indie-Screams! I think that a documentary on his films SHOULD be in order. The man has influenced so many modern day horror directors (even the filmmakers of "Shawn Of The Dead" gave him props by naming a resturant after him in that film), and I know his cult following is HUGE! Look into this, Evan. If you guys got the ball rolling on this one, champange will fall from the heavens!!

Posted by: Mike | Jun 18, 2005 2:16:59 AM

Kathi - Beginning next week, we will be using new technology that squeezes the credits less - leaving them far more readable, so you can see ALL of the information clearly. We tested it this past week, and it looks great. Let me know what you think - look for it by next Friday.

Matt - usually we re-air D45 on Tuesdays. But this week we are preempting the re-airs of D45 for "Dream of the Dead" our new doc about Romero's new Zombie movie. We will re-air the entire D45 season in August, and with a special marathon in the fall.

That said, this weeks episode is a fucking riot - Adam Goldberg, Christina Ricci, Giovanni Ribisi, and Steven Drozd join Jon. It's on at 10pm and 1am est.

Mike - Thanks!!!! We are looking into a Fulci Fest... stay tuned.

Posted by: evan | Jun 18, 2005 10:46:31 AM

Loved the movie DOG DAYS can u run it again?????????????????

Posted by: Sue | Jun 18, 2005 10:46:32 AM

I love Samuari Saturdays and the Blind Swordsman series. Some years ago PBS showed a series of Japanese films, that were wonderful. I wuold like to see more orential type films. Love those sad endings! I am a 70 year old WASP, and love foreign films. Being deaf, and having closed captioning helps also. Keep up the wonderful work!

Posted by: Jane Baiely | Jun 18, 2005 10:47:09 AM

PLEASE !!Can anyone help me?? I live in California and at about 8:50 am on 6/20/05 I turned to IFC(channel 503 in SF BAY AREA on COMCAST)and found myself at the end of a short film where it appeared the young nanny/housekeeper was packing to leave after apparently being accused of maybe stealing something - it appeared her employer,the man of the house,actually had whatever she was accused of stealing(looked like a broach possibly that had belonged to his mother?)and he was begging her to stay.She did leave however & the film ended about 9:05 or so. Can anyone identify that short for me? Also Frances McDormand played the wife. I think the credits said it was from a book called "An Upheaval" but I couldnt catch the author. Any help would be greatly appreciated regarding this short of the book. Thanks again

Posted by: kfern | Jun 20, 2005 12:49:04 PM

It's called "Upheaval"

http://imdb.com/title/tt0338524/

Great short!

Posted by: evan | Jun 21, 2005 8:50:06 PM

Your weekly emails are helpful, but they could be much more efficient. What you get now is a list of titles, most of which you don't know. It takes a number of clicks to get the information needed to decide if this is a film you want to watch. And you have to do this film after film after film

A layout with more info displayed with a fraction of clicks would be a huge help. Needed are cast, director, plot summary and awards if any.

Posted by: howard burkat | Jun 21, 2005 9:44:53 PM

Dear Evan,
I love the IFC channel ! I enjoy films such as "THE BIG NIGHT'',
'DINNER RUSH' 'THE TANGO LESSON'' and 'JACKIE BROWN''
It would be nice if 'JACKIE BROWN' was shown at an earlier time
in the eastern US .
Thank you,
David

Posted by: daviD GOLDSTEIN | Jun 23, 2005 5:03:18 PM

Posted by: daviD GOLDSTEIN | Jun 23, 2005 5:05:40 PM

Evan... the idea that you guys are considering a Fulci Fest too awesome! Gotta be a documentary with that, though. I think that Fulci, like Bava and Argento, were the gateway to much of the modern horror flims being produced today and people should understand that directors like Peter Jackson have been heavily influnced by those directors. Look at "Dead Alive", "The Frighteners", and even "The Lord Of The Rings" trilogy... you can see their influence stamped all over those films.
Fulci's cult following is huge, like I have said in earlier posts, and in many circles within the horror genre, he has a bigger following than Argento or Bava. This is something that many fans of his have been waiting a long time for... recognition for a true master of his trade.

Posted by: Mike | Jun 23, 2005 5:47:18 PM

Ok, this is supposed to be TV Uncut, and the other day I'm watching Suspiria and lo and behold it's the edited version...now I'm watching Dawn of the Dead and worse then being edited its full frame...I expect a little more from IFC.

Posted by: Jason Reeves | Jun 23, 2005 8:50:28 PM

Howard - we will work on the emails - thanks for the great feedback!

daviD - good point about Jackie Brown - we skedded it as part of Pulp Month and we wanted that stunt in Late Night, because it's really for matrure audiences. That said, JB is a good 9pm title and we will strive to get it on earlier east coast.

Jason - Dawn of the Dead was actually shot in Full Frame. The lbx version that exists is just a matte version, not a true lbx. We decided to go with this version and think it's the best choice.

Suspiria hasn't aired on IFC since March, and it was definitely not edited then. It's filmed in english, then dubbed in english like all Italian films - maybe that's what you mean? The lip sinc is a bit off.

Hope that helps!

Posted by: evan | Jun 23, 2005 9:25:17 PM

Very disappointed! I taped “Dawn Of The Dead” because it was on at 6:00 a.m. As always, I added several minutes to the recording time to allow for differences between the cable box timer and VCR timer. To my dismay, the movie ran way past its scheduled broadcast time. When I was growing up, you could set your watch to the start and end times of TV programs, but I guess that’s no longer true in this slipshod world. How about rebroadcasting “Dawn Of The Dead” for all those who also missed taping the ending, only this time, publish the correct start and end times.

Posted by: Britt Spade | Jun 24, 2005 10:13:47 AM

Looked over the blog, and have to say I'm with the 20% who hate the squeezed, unreadable credits. I’m surprised that the record industry hasn’t complained [or sued] yet, especially since they’re always moaning about how low sales are, and constantly blame downloading for their ills instead of the garbage they’ve been producing since the 1990s. I own around 7,000+ CDs, and at least 500+ of them I bought by learning the title/artist of a song from reading the credits. Most CD soundtracks go out-of-print quickly, so you often have to buy the song on a non-soundtrack CD. Needless to say, I’ve hardly bought any CDs due to hearing a movie song [except via TCM] since squeezing credits became the norm.

One has to wonder about your survey results, I didn’t notice one person in the 80% portion write-in to extoll the squeezed credits; perhaps you should switch to different viewers for your survey, it seems like 100% of those in this blog are against it.

Anyway, a possible solution is, time permitting, to run the previews just prior to the movie’s start; if a 1:40 movie is scheduled in a 1:45 time slot, start the movie 2-3 minutes later [after the previews]. This would even be more like the “coming attractions” in the good-old theater days, and most people wouldn’t leave the room knowing the movie will start in 1, 2, or 3 minutes.

Posted by: Britt Spade | Jun 24, 2005 4:18:21 PM

Britt - if you look at the Living Dead Night post:

http://ifcblog.ifctv.com/evan/2005/06/dead_night.html

You'll see i tried to give everyone a warning that "Dawn" was the director's cut and ran long. That doesn't always get transslated into Tivo or Cable box guides - so my apologies.

The 80% of those who don't watch credits are represented well in this blog - if you read the Why We Squeeze pt. II post...

http://ifcblog.ifctv.com/evan/2005/06/heres_a_brief_d.html

You'll see a differing point of view. That said, the IFC viewers also vote with their remotes. So far, the experiment is working incredibly well - the viewership from program to program is much better, and awareness of what we have on is increasing.

Also, since we instituted the "do not squeeze" list of films and larger credit size, complaints about squeezes have gone down.

The coming attractions thing is a great idea - in fact we utilize a similar tact at the end of our breaks now. We will continue to tweak.

thanks

Posted by: evan | Jun 24, 2005 5:14:43 PM

Evan,

Thanks for your reply. Followed your link to the "Dawn Of The Dead" alert, which even if I had known to look for it, probably wouldn't have helped since it only mentioned the 8:15 p.m. Thursday evening telecast, and said nothing about the 6:00 a.m. Friday broadcast. Hope you rebroadcast the movie soon.

Posted by: Britt Spade | Jun 24, 2005 5:45:24 PM

I could'nt live without IFC. I am 57
and love your programming. Zatoitchi on weekends, the best. the red latern, the red violin,THE ROAD HOME,MY LIFE AS A DOG, KNIFE IN THE WATER, BEIGINE BICYCLE,MONSOON WEDDING,THE USUAL SUSPECTS, THE ONE WITH MORGAN FREEMAN AND GENE HACKMAN ,MORGAN - COP HACKMAN-SUSPECT, iT'S ALL GOODTOO MANY TO TYPE ............. THANKYOU
THEISZONE

Posted by: theiszone | Jun 25, 2005 2:53:28 AM

I began to watch IFC when I got a satellite, and got hooked on Samurai Saturdays. I noticed something; the movies with Ichi the blind swordsman have begun to repeat...how about giving us some more Toshira Mifune? Thnaks, John

Posted by: John Walters | Jun 25, 2005 9:18:05 AM

I enjoy your programs,particularly the Zatoichi movies/Samurai Saturdays! My cable company had "blocked" IFC in my new residence. I kept calling the cable co daily until IFC was restored.It took them 3weeks to solve the problem.

Posted by: Roland | Jun 25, 2005 11:12:53 AM

I enjoy watching movies, I really like proof,cecyl b. demented ,dancing at the blue iguana. my friend is hooked with your crazy movies.

Posted by: maria | Jun 26, 2005 2:59:25 AM

Thanks everyone for the great comments and feedback!!!

John W - we are running the entire Ichi series through the end of July (there are a LOT of them!!!!) However, we will be introducing a new strand of Samurai films throughout August and into the fall.

Roland, who is your cable company?

Posted by: evan | Jun 26, 2005 9:34:12 AM

Evan,
I saw a few others who agreed with me on the Blade Runner issue,(non dir cut)
but no response. I know I am not the only
one who prefers the original, and I thought that maybe someone out there in IFC-Land might be able to locate it, and maybe even play it for the masses. If nothing else,
send a message to me as to where I might be able to find it for purchase?
Neways, keep up the good work,
Rabbitt

Posted by: AK Rabbitt | Jun 26, 2005 1:01:06 PM

I have just one thing to say , and that is please keep up your outstanding work . Thank You Very Much

Posted by: Clifford Lee Almany | Jun 26, 2005 2:57:26 PM

I had a great time watching Resevour Dogs and Jackie Brown. I own both of them on dvd but I still can't resist watching them when they are on. I also liked the Resevour Dogs documentary that you did. Could you also do a block of David Lynch and P.T Anderson films? Keep up the good work. I like to see movies that are about the acting rather than just hansome faces and tight bodies. Keep up the good work.
PR

Posted by: Lorrie | Jun 26, 2005 9:30:30 PM

why is it ifc has the worst picture on cable? our local public access is alot better. and recently the picture is really really white bright. what's the deal? i can't watch a movie that looks that bad no matter how superior it is to hollywood movies. the sundance channel has a good picture quality always, yours is by far the worst i've ever seen. horrible. at least here in nashville on comcast digital cable.

Posted by: tony | Jun 27, 2005 3:19:41 AM

Rabbit - Dude, it's the DIRECTOR'S CUT. There are scenes in there that change the end of the story to suit Ridley Scott's vision.

Scott's been working a new version - which is tied up in legal battles at Warner Brothers - that is a true Director's Cut. Until that's all settled, the 1992 Director's Cut is the only one available for TV license. I believe Criterion has the original version on DVD.

For the whole story on Blade Runner - check out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blade_Runner

TRIVIA: Name the novel on which Blade Runner is based, and its author.

Clifford Lee - Thanks, man, really. Those types of posts mean a lot back here in the salt mines!

Lorrie - Both Lynch and Anderson deserve fests - great ideas! We will probably wait until each or either does a new film, but are there favorites among their works that you most want to see?

Tony - i don't think it's on our end, my picture looks great - in NYC, on Long Island, in NJ. I would call your cable operator and talk to them about the signal. Are there any channels in our "neighborhood" (on the cable dial) that have the same issues?

You should know that in 2006, most all cable networks and operators will switch to mpeg4 compression from the current mpeg2. That will allow for more information in every signal and create picture quality for everyone.

Posted by: evan | Jun 27, 2005 10:09:43 AM

I was so excited to hear that Steven Drozd of the Flaming Lips was going to be on Dinner for Five. These fellows are rather obscure, and don't show up on television very often.
Unfortuneately, Adam "the mouth" Goldberg was also on, and continually interupted Drozd, and everyone else at the table.
It would be terrific if you could schedule all 3 Lips, perhaps when their film Christmas on Mars is finally released. If that does happen, please don't invite the meglomaniac Goldberg, the boy is annoying.
Bethany Duffy

Posted by: Bethany Duffy | Jun 27, 2005 10:47:50 AM

Bethany - To be fair, Adam was the director of the film they were touting, so he should get some room to pontificate. The Lips have been on IFC a LOT - featured in Indie Rocks and other areas. When they release their film, I think we might do a cool thing with them.

Posted by: evan | Jun 28, 2005 10:06:26 AM

We love the ZATOISHI series, and watch it every Saturday.

Hope you will continue to show the series.

Would love to see more Asian films (particularly Japanese.) Both more recent and older.

What about a Takeshi Kitano film fest?

Posted by: sheila2005 | Jun 28, 2005 2:56:24 PM

Although you claim in your logos and such to be "uncut" I saw a cut you did on "Bully" you cut a bit of the scene of Marti stabbing Bobby in the gut the first time, cut Marti moving the knife up and down iun Bobby's gut.belly scene, and you cut the close up of Bobby's guts hanging out right after that.

Posted by: Imaginary Space | Jun 29, 2005 2:36:45 AM

Dittos re: "Z Channel" for programming inspiration, but please ditch it's avatar's "manic" vision w/ which you juice up "indie"/IFC promo. Is "indie" the speed freak who grabs on to you, gets into yr. face and won't shut the f- up? That's what your promo does. It's "nuts", NOT "edgy", not "original", etc. It's diagnostic. How come? Also rather suggest you focus such energy on resurrecting great "lost"stuff, foreign, such as Rauni Mollberg's "Maa on syntinen laulu" ("The Earth Is A Sinful Song" (Finland, 1974) [ses@ses.fi]Yr. devoted supporter, p

Posted by: Pete | Jun 29, 2005 11:11:15 AM

Dittos re: "Z Channel" for programming inspiration, but please ditch it's avatar's "manic" vision w/ which you juice up "indie"/IFC promo. Is "indie" the speed freak who grabs on to you, gets into yr. face and won't shut the f- up? That's what your promo does. It's "nuts", NOT "edgy", not "original", etc. It's diagnostic. How come? Also rather suggest you focus such energy (and/or funding) on resurrecting great "lost"stuff, foreign, such as Rauni Mollberg's "Maa on syntinen laulu" ("The Earth Is A Sinful Song" (Finland, 1974) [ses@ses.fi], the "Cinemateque cache" (NYC "underground" films, ephemera...)Yr. devoted supporter, p

Posted by: Pete | Jun 29, 2005 11:16:17 AM

We all should give thanks to IFC, for having the balls to show the great independent films, all the other networks refuse to show. Bravo, IFC, your time has come!.....And P.S.....Thanks for showing "Blade Runner" un-cut,un-edited, with no commercial breaks, the greatest sci-fi film ever!

Posted by: Jimemack | Jun 29, 2005 4:15:16 PM

Sheila - Ichi keeps on rolling until August, when we start with another set of Samurai films. We have an Asian fixation too - look for more soon, especially Tuesdays this fall.

Imaginary - if you saw a cut, it was in the film. We NEVER edit, censor or cut films in any way. We play em as we get em. I will check to see if that was a Director's edit from the original, but I don't believe so.

Pete - If watched Z Channel, you'd see that the doc's director, Xan Cassavettes, shows Jerry Harvey to be a manic, yet brilliant guy. The combination proved his undoing. I am sorry if you don't like the promotion, but I respectfully disagree - I think our on-air team created brilliant promotion for that film, to which Ms. Cassavettes has only voiced agreement.

Jimemack - you and I have the same taste. Thanks for the IFC praise, and for the Blade Runner shout out, it's my favorite sci-fi films and one of my favorite detective films of all time.

Posted by: evan | Jun 29, 2005 11:13:27 PM

Can anybody tell me the name of the green day song IFC play's on the "uncut" promo? Email at sshell0309@aol.com THANK YOU

Posted by: scott | Jun 30, 2005 3:31:49 AM

IFC is El Primo!

Posted by: james | Jun 30, 2005 6:12:51 AM

I've never posted before but I just had to let you know that I caught Greg the Bunny last night and it was fantastic! I really enjoyed it when it was on Fox (picked up the DVD set) and was thrilled to see last nights show and that there will be more in August. Much as I loved the Fox stuff, last night's was even better (thank you for bringing back the buttons). There were 3 of use watching last night and we laughed our asses off! Thank you , thank you, thank you!

Posted by: Trish | Jun 30, 2005 11:27:27 AM

Scott - The Green Day song is a five song suite from American Idiot, called "Jesus of Suburbia".

If you like it, you should check out the new IFC short we're filming based on the song and featuring ALL of the music. It premieres Saturday, July 9 at 11:30 pm eastern time, right after our Punk Doc "PUNK:ATTITUDE".

James - Mucho gracias!!!!!

Trish - Thanks so much! Glad you agree that Greg is friggin' hysterical. Wait 'til you see t