HBO: Worth every extra cent
Written: Sep 06 '01
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Pros: Quality programming that is unrivaled by other networks.
Cons: Slight extra cost. Frequent movie repeats.
The Bottom Line: While it may cost an extra couple bucks, HBO is television at its best, and worth every cent in my opinion.
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| klaxonman's Full Review: HBO |
Despite the extra fee of subscription, I highly recommend adding HBO to your list of channels.
What Makes HBO So Great
The Sopranos
A classic TV show in the making, now entering it's 4th season I believe. The Sopranos blends the humor of a terrific sit-com with startling action scenes and clever mystery. Each episode in fact has the feel of a good movie. On occasion the writers have an off night, but around four of every five episodes leave me at the edge of my seat. This original show alone is worth the monthly fee in my opinion. And don't forget: no commercials through the entire hour long episode.
Sex in The City
A great adult humor sit-com. This show is extremely witty and funny. Perfect for any woman 18 and up. Even my old mother loves it. While I am not female, I will still admit to enjoying this well written, well acted, and uncensored TV show.
HBO Original Movies
Terrific original movies/mini-series have aired on HBO. One stands out in my mind that is yet to air. "Band of Brothers." Directed by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, this 10 hour mini-series has been received outstanding reviews from top publications. I recall reading articles stating, "Forget Saving Private Ryan, get ready for Band of Brothers!" and "The television of event of the new milenium!" HBO has also made movies in the past that have been given great reviews. I remember one about Apollo 13, Mickey Mantle, and several dramas that, quality-wise, were worlds above any other TV movie I can think of.
My Only Problems With HBO
Well, obviously it's not fun to pay any amount of extra money to watch TV. Don't get me wrong... in my opinion this doesn't justify missing out on all the great programming. But do I enjoy having a higher cable bill, of course not. The only problem with the programming itself is that HBO repeats the same movies too frequently. Some more variation would be nice. It wouldn't even have to be movies that were just released on video. I would settle for any good movie within the last 10-20 years, even a couple classics would be nice.
Conclusion
The main factor that draws me to HBO is the original programming. I love the TV series and I love the movies. The occasional blockbuster is always nice, but you can get that on any movie channel. The original programming is what sets HBO apart from the other movie channels, and is what justifies my spending the extra couple bucks a month.
Recommended:
Yes
Average Program Rating: TV 14 -- parents strongly cautioned
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Epinions.com ID:
klaxonman
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Member: Robert Katz
Location: Connecticut
Reviews written: 84
Trusted by: 106 members
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