Mermaids (1990)

Airs Saturday, October 5th at 9 p.m. • Encore Friday, October 11th at 11 p.m.
Starring: Cher • Winona Ryder • Christina Ricci • Bob Hoskins • Michael Schoeffling

Mermaids, directed by Lasse Hallström, is a charming coming-of-age comedy-drama that follows the quirky life of a single mother, Mrs. Flax (Cher), and her two daughters, played by Winona Ryder and Christina Ricci, in 1960s New England. With Mrs. Flax’s unconventional parenting style and a romantic entanglement with a local man, the film explores themes of love, identity, and family dynamics.

Cher delivers a captivating performance that earned her an Academy Award nomination, while Ryder and Ricci shine as the daughters navigating their own paths. The film artfully blends humor and heartfelt moments, showcasing the challenges and joys of growing up in a family filled with eccentricities. With its nostalgic setting, memorable characters, and a delightful soundtrack, Mermaids is a whimsical and poignant exploration of the bonds that tie us together and the journeys we take to find ourselves.

The Truman Show (1998)

Airs Saturday, October 12th at 9 p.m. • Encore Friday, October 18th at 11 p.m.
Starring: Jim Carrey • Ed Harris • Laura Linney • Noah Emmerich • Natascha McElhone

The Truman Show, directed by Peter Weir, is a thought-provoking satirical drama that follows the life of Truman Burbank (Jim Carrey), an ordinary man unknowingly living in a fabricated world. Since birth, Truman has been the unwitting star of a reality TV show, broadcasted 24/7 to a global audience, while his friends and family are all actors.

As Truman begins to suspect that his life is not what it seems, the film explores themes of identity, free will, and the ethics of entertainment. Carrey delivers a remarkable performance, blending humor and depth, as he navigates the surreal nature of his existence. The film's clever premise and poignant social commentary make it a timeless exploration of reality and the human experience. With its innovative storytelling and memorable performances, The Truman Show remains a powerful reflection on the nature of truth in a media-saturated world.

Stalag 17 (1953)

Airs Saturday, October 19th at 9 p.m. • Encore Friday, October 25th at 11 p.m.
Starring: William Holden • Don Taylor • Otto Preminger • Robert Strauss • Neville Brand

Stalag 17, directed by Billy Wilder, is a gripping war comedy-drama set in a German POW camp during World War II. The film follows the lives of American soldiers who, while enduring harsh conditions, must navigate the challenges of captivity and betrayal. When a series of escapes leads to suspicion among the men, it falls to the cynical yet resourceful Sergeant J.J. Sefton (William Holden) to uncover the traitor in their midst.

Holden delivers a standout performance that earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, blending sharp wit with deep emotional resonance. The film skillfully balances humor and tension, providing a poignant commentary on camaraderie and survival in dire circumstances. With its sharp dialogue, memorable characters, and masterful direction, Stalag 17 is a timeless classic that highlights the resilience of the human spirit against the backdrop of war.

Young Sherlock Holmes (1985)

Airs Saturday, October 28th at 9 p.m. • Encore Friday, November 3rd at 11 p.m.
Starring: Nicholas Rowe • Alan Cox • Sophie Ward • Anthony Higgins • Roger Ashton-Griffiths

Young Sherlock Holmes, directed by Barry Levinson, is an adventurous mystery that imagines the early years of the iconic detective, Sherlock Holmes (Nicholas Rowe). Set in Victorian London, the film follows a teenage Holmes and his friend John Watson (Alan Cox) as they unravel a series of bizarre murders linked to a sinister cult.

With its clever plot and imaginative storytelling, the film combines elements of mystery and adventure, showcasing Holmes' early deduction skills and budding friendship with Watson. Featuring groundbreaking animated sequences that vividly depict Holmes’ imaginative visions, Young Sherlock Holmes captures the essence of the beloved detective while introducing a thrilling and whimsical twist. This family-friendly film is a delightful blend of mystery and excitement, perfect for audiences of all ages.