22 June 2023, Mumbai: Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, and Paul Thomas Anderson have come together to advocate for the preservation of Turner Classic Movies (TCM), according to reports by IndieWire. The trio recently held an “emergency call” with Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav, expressing their concerns about the fate of the beloved classic movies channel. TCM, known for its curated selection of timeless films, recently faced layoffs and budget cuts under Zaslav’s cost-cutting initiatives.
Spielberg, Scorsese, and Anderson have been vocal supporters of TCM in the past. Scorsese revealed that the channel is always playing in the background while he edits his films, emphasizing its significance in his creative process. Spielberg has actively contributed to TCM, appearing in documentary shorts and advocating for the channel as a vital platform for showcasing older movies. Anderson has also expressed his enthusiasm for TCM, even referring to it as “holy ground.”
Warner Bros. and Zaslav made significant changes at TCM, including the layoffs of key personnel involved in curating the channel’s film library. The sudden restructuring puts Zaslav in a challenging position as he faces the task of reducing costs at a channel cherished by some of America’s most esteemed directors, while simultaneously trying to win back their support. This comes after Warner Bros.’ controversial decision during the pandemic to release films directly on streaming platforms, causing frustration among cinephiles.
In response to the situation, Spielberg, Scorsese, and Anderson issued a joint statement, as reported by THR. They express their contentment and encouragement after their conversation with Zaslav. The directors emphasize the significance of TCM as more than just a channel, calling it a valuable cinematic resource available around the clock. They acknowledge the pressures faced by a large corporation like Warner Bros. Discovery and state that their main objective is to ensure the preservation and protection of TCM’s programming.
The directors affirm their commitment to working together with Zaslav to safeguard TCM as a cultural touchstone that holds immense value for them and countless film enthusiasts. They are optimistic about the ongoing discussions and believe that TCM and classic cinema hold a special place in Zaslav’s priorities as well.
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