Sorry About Your Cancer, But…
Published by wilson August 24th, 2006 in UncategorizedWhile the heralded screenwriter of Beyond The Valley of The Dolls recuperates from salivary cancer surgery (that’ll teach you kids a lesson - no more lurching!), Ebert and Roeper have been filling Roger’s seat with guest hosts that have made this quietly enjoyable show even more so.
I’ve been Tivo’ing E&R since we first got our Tivo almost four years ago (that’s right, I’m O.G.) and have found it to be the best 12 minute show ever (minus their DVD picks, the Raisenettes promo, and their recaps, there ain’t much there). And while I respect Ebert’s knowledge of film and his overall opinions, I’ve found him to be less and less objective as the years have gone on… which is maybe why I love having his well-worn seat filled by someone else for awhile.
Though they’ve only announced 6 or 7 guest hosts, it looks like Eb’s is on the 90 day DL, minimum (homie needs voice-rehab and I don’t think Anthony Hopkin’s neck-chalkboard from Legends of the Fall will be sufficient for a talk show host).
The line-up thus far:
- Jay Leno
- Kevin Smith
- John Ridley
- Fred Willard
- Aisha Tyler
- Michael Phillips - another Chicago critic
- Toni Senecal
Disney (owners of Buena Vista Entertainment who syndicate E&R) have been criticized for their “celebritizing” of the process, instead of inviting critics only. Of course, the main detractor has been Movie City News’ editor David Poland, who himself was a guest critic on the show during the post-Siskel, pre-Roeper tryouts. But I’m sure he’s not at all pissed about not being asked this time around.
And aside from the nice break in the Ebert marriage, the shake-up showcases another venue for movie-talk TV which is much more facinating for me: having one non-critic/movie insider and one critic, always.
Aside from Beyond The Valley of The Dolls, Ebert hasn’t had his hand in the actual production of many movies, so when Kevin Smith starts talking about the cinematography or lighting or look of a movie he reviewed, to me, it gives a whole other perspective to the experience.
So, yeah, sorry about your cancer and all… but take your time getting better, OK Tiny?
-Wilson
Retort
Dear Roger,
I haven’t watched your show in a long long time. It’s because I miss your old partner, the tall guy with the awesome combover who could always pick out the film gems from the Hollywood swill. When I would see you still sitting there without him, I would realize how much I miss Gene. Many times I have said the wrong one died… Uhhh, sorry Fatty… I kind of hope you don’t die now.
Get Better, Your Friend,
-Ed
0 Responses to “Sorry About Your Cancer, But...”
Please Wait
Leave a Reply