Review of Z Channel: A Magnificent Obsession (2004) by Jim S — 27 Jun 2007

Like it's subject, Xan Cassavetes' film is a true movie-lover's orgy. It's the story of one of the first premium cable channels, which -- long before Blockbuster, HBO or Showtime dominated the landscape -- broadcast an eclectic range of new, rare, uncut and forgotten films to some 100,000 lucky subscribers in the Hollywood Hills, and served to not only bring renewed attention to overlooked or little-seen films but saved certain new ones (notably Oliver Stone's "Salvador")from almost certain death.

The brains and vision behind Z Channel was Chief Programmer Jerry Harvey, a gonzo film nut -- who had the brilliant idea of letting his own broad tastes guide him, week to week -- and a tragic figure who spiralled into depression amidst the corporate takeover of Z in 1988, and ultimately ended the life of himself and his wife.

It is pointed out on the commentary that the reason the story of Z Channel is so unknown is because it ended so terribly; understandably, it took a decade and a half for people to get over the sad ending to an otherwise inspiring story of a little guy who aimed for the "uncommon viewer.

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