Moviedrome

Summer nights watching movies that were forbidden to us mostly. The intro music and excitement in watching wonderful cinema even if the occasional movie was weird. Some real classic gems as well as a way to enjoy cinema over censorship. Brings back great memories in front of the old telly.

Moviedrome was a regular season of cult or obscure films. Each film would be introduced by Alex Cox (later replaced by Mark Cousins.)

Cox would give an idiosyncratic introduction to each film, he might talk about the directors, stars, the film, opening credits. I have to admit sometimes I watched Moviedrome just for the intros and never bothered with the film.

The first film shown when it started in 1988 was The Wicker Man. When it ended in 2000, the last film shown was The Last American Hero.

Mark Cousins was a more straightforward presenter but again his love of cinema was also infectious.

The Moviedrome seasons on BBC2 ran for some years. It goes to show that there are a lot of cult and obscure films about. I make no bones about it, the introductions and the films shown developed my interest in movies and cinema.

I rather hope the BBC would bring this umbrella strand back.