'Roger Ebert Presents At the Movies' premieres on PBS in January -- World-reknowned movie critic, Roger Ebert, will debut a brand new television program on PBS in January, producers announced today. Roger Ebert Presents At the Movies will be a half-hour film review program in the spirit of Mr. Ebert's 35-year programs done previously with fellow critics, Gene Siskel and Richard Roeper.
Mr. Ebert lost his physical voice to cancer several years ago, resulting in the cancellation of his long-running film review program, but his real voice in the film industry has never been silenced. He continues to write reviews for the Chicago Sun-Times, post frequently on Twitter, and maintain an active presence on the Internet through his blog.
The new program will utilize a computer for Mr. Ebert to vocalize commentary about films he wishes to highlight -- principally classics and new or overlooked movies. This segment will be part of every program and will be called "Roger's Office." The show, however, will be hosted chiefly by Christy Lemire, a film critic with the Associated Press, and Elvis Mitchell, film critic with National Public Radio. They will continue with the "thumbs up," "thumbs down" format for which the Siskel/Ebert programs are so well known.
Mr. Ebert commented that he will not debate the views of Ms. Lemire and Mr. Mitchell. "They'll be awarding the Thumbs, and you can't have three Thumbs," he said.
The critic also commented on the return of the program to PBS:
"I believe that by returning to its public roots, our new show will win better and more consistent time slots in more markets. American television is swamped by mindless gossip about celebrities, and I'm happy this show will continue to tell viewers honestly if the critics think a new movie is worth seeing."
Other critics and movie bloggers invited to contribute their reviews to the program will be Kim Morgan and Omar Moore, who will also occasionally serve as hosts.
Though the program will be distributed nationwide, it will be shot in Chicago.
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Connie Ann Kirk is a published author of more than 10 books and holds a Ph.D. in English. She is currently working on a novel and a screenplay. See all of Connie's National Examiner Arts & Entertainment columns at these pages: Books on Film, Literature, Emily Dickinson, and Young Adult Pop Culture. Feel free any time to also check out her website, www.connieannkirk.com.
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