It looks like replacements for Ebert and Roeper were already chosen. We get wind today that Ben Lyons and Ben Mankiewicz have been tapped to take over At The Movies thanks to the good people over at the Chicago Tribune:
Ben Lyons of E! Entertainment Television and Ben Mankiewicz of Turner Classic Movies Tuesday were named co-hosts of what was described as “the new generation” of “At the Movies” by the Walt Disney Co.’s Buena Vista Productions and Disney-ABC Television Distribution.
“With the addition of Ben Lyons and Ben Mankiewicz as our talented, charismatic new co-hosts, and exciting new segments planned, we’re confident that audiences will be enjoying ‘At the Movies’ for many years to come,” said Brian Frons, who oversees Buena Vista Productions as president of Disney-ABC Television Group’s daytime division.
I am not familiar with these two gentlemen, but I will give them the benefit of the doubt. I certainly dislike the new vision for the show. I like the feel of At The Movies, two critics duking it out, making a case and picking yea or nay. Bringing in a myriad of critics from across the country is fucking whack, and saps the soul out of the show. No wonder why Ebert and Roeper decided to bail on these changes – they suck.
I like when a critic has their own show, sometimes I just want to hear the opinion of an educated and seasoned professional. Agree or no, you know you can count on them for an opinion, and half the fun is screaming at the TV when you disagree. If Ben Lyons and Ben Mankiewicz were to simply fill the seats, I would still be bummed; but far more receptive. This new direction sucks and I will not be watching. International friends – what are your thoughts?
