video-magazine-1985-07

‘Brother’s’ John SaylesTalks The inagazfne of Home Video Private Eyes [ j . Camera-CamcwderBuyers Secret Agent Man /htrick Mc(foohan Probe Dateline: Taiwan rheSoulofaNewTV V0989\"37869'

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July 1985 Contents Volume IX, Number 4 Features Program Guide Columns Sayles News & Views Channel One Writer/director John Sayles is By Ken Winslow.45 Who’s the Parasite, Jack?.6 the perfect antidote to what’s bad about Hollywood today. Top 10 Fast Forward By Fred Schruers.68 Tape & Disc Sales & Rentals.47 Copyguard Comes to Cotton.8 '85 Shooter's Special Reviews Feedback Part I: Camera Buyer's Guide Film & Video Clips/Quick Takes.48 How Do We Do It? Volume.10 After feverish years of noisy breakthroughs, this year’s crop Directory New Products sports modest refinements. Whew! What’s New on Tape & Disc.59 Sony’s Pieces of 8.14 By Murray Slovick.74 Videotests_ Fine Tuning Part II: Camcorders & 8mm Polaroids Apart The camcorder (camera/recorder) Pioneer SD-25A Expandable TV By Roderick Woodcock.26 may be the product that’ll entice Hitachi VT-89A VHS Hi-Fi VCR passive videophiles into activity. Sampo VR-9500 VHS VCR Videogram By Roderick Woodcock.80 Hawkeye Video/Audio Transmitter Le Club Rents Le Vid By Berger-Braithwaite Labs.97 By William Wolfe.30 Part III: Electronic Viewfinders That tiny TV in the eyepiece can TV Den contain information critical to On Timers the outcome of your shooting spree. By Roderick Woodcock.32 By Roderick Woodcock.88 Random Access Computer Choreography LisellalBloomlOnosko.36 Taiwan Confidential New Channels 38 Our Technical Editor crosses over Leave It to Cable 136 to the real world where products By Tim Onosko. are designed in backrooms. By Lancelot Braithwaite.90 Video Bookshelf Clive Hirschhom’s ‘Gene Kelly Secret Agent Man By George L. George. A conversation with TV auteur Patrick McGoohan, star of ‘The People Prisoner’ and ‘Secret Agent.’ Conan the Meathead By Tom Soter.94 By Lorenzo Carcaterra. Dateline: Taiwan Off the Air Broadcast Is Better By Bob Brewin. About the Cover. Pssst. Mac. Got a low-light? Thanks. Careful—they’ve got camcorders. They might come out shooting. Cover photo by Tom Weihs.

THE HLM WHOSE TIME HAS COME. She had one love. He had one secret. Cocaine. “TORCHLIGHT’S HONESTY GETS TO YOU” PAMELA SUE MARTIN STEVE RAILSBACK lANMcSHANE SlarrinB in a UCO Films Production of TORCHLIGHT Co-starring AL CORLEY RITA TAGGART Music Composed by MICHAEL CANNON Theme Song Music by CARLY SIMON Lyrics by CARLY SIMON and TIM MAYER Director of Photography ALEX PHILLIPS Written by P.S. MARTIN & ELIZA MOORMAN Edited by CHARLES TETTONI Produced bylJuOE^LrnDIMOSUTGORLCAHSPROEDxUeCcTuItOiyNeS,PIrNoCd. ucAenriM—A^-NmUlEniL,™R,iOonJ.lAFiSlm Directed by TOM WRIGHT Bnln.n, Now Available onVideocassette.

Channel One Editor Doug Garr Managing Editor Richard Jaccoma Who's the Parasite, Jack? Technical Editor Lancelot Braithwaite West Coast Editor Roderick Woodcock We at VIDEO don’t mean to put a damper on your balmy summer days, but once again Associate Editor Mark Fleischraann we’re compelled to bring up the subject of Jack Valenti, president of the Motion Picture Amy Gottlieb Association of America. As you no doubt already know, Valenti is Hollywood’s spokesman Art Director William Wolfe and often vents strong feelings about home video. Assistant Editor Ken Winslow Programming Editor Ivan Berger, John In an interview with the New York Times Valenti said, “The videocassette recorder is a Contributing Editors Bishop, Harvey Elliott, parasitical instrument” (emphasis is Valenti’s). He especially took umbrage at the PAL- George L. George standard twin-slotted VCR being sold in the Middle East by Sharp: “Now you go out and to the Editor (books), Ichiro rent three cassettes at one dollar, three beautiful pictures, let’s say, Lawrence ofArabia, Assistant Kakehashi, Tim Star Wars, and some other blockbuster. All right, you go over to someone’s house and Onosko, Murray they show these three beautiful pictures and when they’re done, you pull your cassette to the Art Director Slovick, Ron Smith out of the other side of the machine and you’ve got those three pictures on one cassette Editorial Assistant Julia D. Lisella with no copyright paid.” Wanda Yueh We’d like to respond. First, there’s absolutely no reason for his overreactive, vitupera¬ tive, sometimes noxious stance. Even Jack Wayman—his nemesis at the Electronic Lily Schwartzberg Industries Association, who is known throughout videoland for his strong lungs—is not nearly as neurotic about this issue. Second, Valenti conveniently ignores the fact that the ■ Z REESE movie industry has benefitted from video in not-so-hidden and not-so-obvious ways. ■ ^ Valenti bemoans the bottom line of the average film (now $14.4 million) and emphasizes COMMUNCAnONS that perhaps one in ten is likely to be a blockbuster, and sbe of ten will ultimately lose INCORPORATED money. What he doesn’t say is how many actors, grips, directors, writers, and other Hollywood folks get work because of the “video rights. ” Smart agents know that the video Publisher Jay Rosenfield rights are going for big bucks these days {Supergirl, although a turkey, was presold on Debra Halpert cassette for millions before a scene was even shot), and these monies continually feed the Associate Publisher Laurie Ann Devereaux hungry pipe that is known as Hollywood. Videocassettes have rightly established a middle Advertising market that is comfortably esconced between the cable deal and the moviehouses. Valenti Joseph Muccigrosso knows this, of course, but he won’t admit it. Production Manager Rena Adler Other pertinent facts: People with VCRs still go to the movies and buy popcorn on Circulation Carol James Saturday night. Even if the double-cassette VCR were sold here, it probably wouldn’t cut Director Peter Philipps into the $4 billion per year picture gross. We know people with twin-slotted audio¬ Janette Evans cassette decks who do lots of copying yet still buy records or prerecorded tapes every Circulation Manager Jayne Schom week. People are less larcenous than Valenti would have us believe. The VCR has given a sagging music business a much-needed boost. Semitalented dancers and actors, as well Circulation Assistant 460 West 34th Street as third-rate guitarists, get work they wouldn’t have had thanks to music videos. N.Y., N.Y. 10001 Financial Officer (212) 947-6500 So think again. Jack. Is the VCR a “parasitical instrument”? Or is Hollywood a parasitical country? Business Manager Tom Weihs’ photograph graces this month’s cover. This photo (his sbsth cover) will Assistant to the unfortunately be his last. We at VIDEO were deeply saddened when Tom Weihs died Publisher suddenly at the age of 36. His output in our magazine was prodigious and his talent unmistakable. Art Director Amy Gottlieb is especially mournful, and we’re certain there National Editorial will be many days in the future when she reaches for her Rolodex and remembers all the & Sales times that Tom made her look good. Readers, of course, will be forgiven if they don’t spend a lot of time studying the fine-print credit lines. We’ve always believed that the Advertising Manager Eric C. Schwartz editors, writers, photographers, and artists are the backbone of a good-quality magazine, yet we also feel that it’s important to be humble and leave our egos in the desk drawer. Promotion Manager Luanne Rao Tom Weihs was that sort of gentleman, and we emphasize the 'noiA gentleman. He was Advertising Denise Thompson loved by many people in the magazine and photography worlds, and we’d like to express Coordinator our heartfelt condolences to his family. He will be missed as a photographer in the pages of VIDEO—but more important, he v^l be missed as a man. Advertising Assistant Kathleen Houle Advertising Sales Glenn Markman —The Editors Classified Sales Kayt Kirk Midwest Sales Milton Gerber Gerber & Associates 1309 North Rand Rd. Arlington Heights, Ill. 60004 (312) 253-7500 West Coast Colette Kreins Sales Manager 413 So. La Brea Avd. e Los Angeles, Cal. 90036 (213) 857-0663 VIDEO (ISSN 0147-8907) is published monthly by Reese Communications Inc., 10001. Second-class postage paid at New York, N.Y. and additional mailing office. ® 1985 by Reese Communications Inc. All rights reserved. ® under Universal, international, and Pan American Copyright Conventions. Reproduction of edito¬ rial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited. Single copy price $1.95 in U.S. and Canada; £2.00 Sterlingin U.K. One-year subscription (12 issues) $18.00; Canada $22.00 viDEO? Box'ms, Dover, N.J. 07^1. Address all sub- scription correspondence and inquiries to VIDEO, Box 1116, Dover. N.J. 07801 or call (201) 361-9550. Change of address takes 60 days to process: send old address label, new address, and zip code. All material listed in this maga¬ zine is subjected to manufacturer’s change without notice, and publisher assumes no responsibility for such change. Printed in the U.S.A. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VIDEO. Box

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Fast Forward Late-Breaking News Copyguard Comes untapeable. Since the Be- sound) is slowing the generally acknowledged to 'Cotton' tamax decision affirmed growth of prerecorded to be excellent—^for a pro¬ the right to home taping, stereo programming. jection TV. As well it When Embassy re¬ copyguarding by cable NBC recently announced should be—there was no leased The Cotton Club as and the networks could it will expand its stereo announced price at press a home video this spring, start another round of broadcasts. The Tonight time, but the projection it wrote a new page in court battles—^with VCR Show goes permanently option will add about video histoiy. Coppola’s makers and owners on stereo this month; and $1500 to Dimensia’s Jazz Age epic was duhhed the offensive this time. Saturday Night Live fol¬ already-hefty $6000 using a new anti-copy lows in December. pricetag. system called Macrovi¬ Prerecorded 8 sion. The process works • Group W Cable is getting Cable & Tape by tricking a copying There’s great news for stereo-ready too—sort of. VCR’s automatic gain all the dozens of satisfied This summer, the com¬ Some cable operators control (AGC) into pro¬ owners of 8mm video pany’s two million sub¬ believe that the spread of ducing a noisy, dim re¬ gear—or at least a great scribers in 33 states will VCRs is ruining then- recording. rumor. Kodak is plan¬ be offered a form of stereo business—why subscribe ning to release a library sound, minus the Second to cable when you can Previous copy-proofing of prerecorded Audio Program (SAP). AH rent all the movies you systems caused incom¬ videotapes with some that is needed is an out¬ want? But now one com¬ patibility problems— 150 film titles, this fall. board converter box pany has adopted a hair- tapes which were un- An exec from Amaray In¬ which picks up FM stereo of-the-dog attitude, using watchable as well as un- ternational, the cassette and pipes it into a sub¬ VCRs to boost subscrip¬ copyable on some box producer, says his scriber’s audio receiver. tions. machines. Embassy and company has been Group W plans to sell the Macrovision, the com¬ approached by Kodak to boxes outright to its sub¬ Jones Intercable oper¬ pany that developed the design little boxes for scribers for about $100. ates in 21 states. In some new process, have issued “250,000 tapes of some of its systems it is now assurances that no such 150 titles.” Spokesmen Unless you’re dying for test-seUing GE VCRs with problems exist here— for Kodak would not SAP, this sound delivery its cable service. For a and none were noted in confirm the Amaray method avoids the need package price of $44.95 several recent screen¬ statement—or even say for TVs with buUt-in MTS per month, lucky sub¬ ings of the copyguarded that releases are definite¬ capability—^bad news for scribers can get two (yes Cotton Club on a variety ly being planned. They all the manufacturers folks, two) pay ser¬ of new and old VCRs. But would only admit that who hope to bolster their vices—and the VCR for it is stm too early to cate¬ they “see a very definite sagging profits by selling keeps. The fee includes gorically say that Mac¬ need” for prerecorded sets with buUt-in decoders. $20 per month for 24 rovision is compatible tapes to bolster their stUl months to pay for the with all VCRs and disc slow-selling 8mm Son of Dimensia VCR—that’s list price players. It wasn’t too ear¬ hardware. plus finance charges. ly for Jack Valenti, RCA has a new, ex¬ though. He praised Stereo Notes panded version of its Tubes in Space_ Embassy and Macrovi¬ multi-function super sys¬ sion in terms usually re¬ It’s a stereo stampede— tem. Dimensia is now One giant step for man¬ served for major break¬ TV stations are convert¬ avaUable with a 40-inch throughs in cancer re¬ ing to MTS stereo at an projection TV, a 100 watt- kind, one ministep for search: “Ingenuity has ever-increasing rate. A per-channel integrated led to this pathfinding in¬ recent estimate is that 40 amp, and a 20-band tinyvlsion. NASA and novation. It will allow us percent of American graphic equalizer. The to go forward with new¬ homes are now in range system’s microprocess¬ Panasonic recently found strength to protect of at least one stereo ing nerve center is this country’s intellec¬ broadcast station. But normally wedged into its announced a new ex¬ tual property rights.” with all that hardware in 26-inch moiiltor/re- place, broadcasters are ceiver, so the new projec¬ periment—^placing a Valenti has reason to complaining that not tion TV (PLR500 or be pleased—in fact, many enough stereo program¬ PLR600) had to be spe¬ 1-1/2-lnch color portable reasons. MacrovLsion en¬ ming is available for play. cially designed to take coding can be added to all over the wide range of TV (Panasonic’s CTlOl) dubs of a master tape, and At a recent broadcast¬ mix-and-match func¬ early reports Indicate it ers’ convention, panel¬ tions and full remote con¬ aboard the Space Shuttle may have broadcast and ists said that costly in¬ trol which make the sys¬ cablecast uses. First-run crease in production tem unique. this fall. No, the TV isn’t movies, made-for-TV time (as much as 5 times spectaculars, and sports more than for mono At a recent demonstra¬ there to let astronauts specials could all become tion, the rear-projection TV’s picture quality was keep abreast of their favorite soaps in space. According to a spokes¬ man for Panasomc, there has never been a TV on the Shuttle, and the tiny set wUl be used to test the feasibUlty of beaming video directly to our gqys and gals in orbit. □

He was a being from another world; With her; he learned what^m^ Love..- Beta

Feedback Readers Air Their Views How Do We Do It? package labels, though.) you have received a number Fantastic Volume Many have been re-released Normally when I read a in Beta Hi-Fi stereo and of letters saying Gone with Martin Porter’s “Heard Any magazine I’ll scan through many are mislabeled or not and read one or two stories, labeled at all. the Wind is not just “stereo” Good Movies Lately” [April then put it aside. However, I am still poring over your Robin M. Bearss as indicated in your chart but 1985] states that theatrical May 1985 issue. I enjoyed Tampa, Fla. comparing notes with your Hi-Fi and Dolby. digital delivery systems are reviewers on the “Hot 100” Your article on video/audio picks, stumbled over the triv¬ “Soundtracking” was in¬ Brian Colbath years away. Porter should ia quiz, and enjoyed the teresting but contained Clint Eastwood interview. numerous errors about LV New York check out Fantasia at Plitt’s However, the subject I am disc releases. Some titles particularly happy to see ad¬ were listed as not available Century Plaza Theater in Los dressed is that of Steven Di- on laser but are readily avail¬ meo’s “Soundtracking.” I able, including Gone with the We would like to thank the Angeles, where the movie is have been trying for more Wind, The Bounty, and than a year, with little suc¬ Thriller. Others are promised many readers who wrote de¬ being presented in full digital cess, to find out which VHS for the near future. A few tapes and LV discs are avail¬ are available as Japanese im¬ tailed letters adding to or stereo. Fantasia was recent¬ able in high-fidelity stereo. ports from a few mail-order Dealers are at the mercy of dealers. Also, Star Trek III correcting the information in ly given a new digitally re¬ distributors, who in turn is the first movie scheduled seem to keep such informa¬ to be released with digital the “Soundtracking” story, corded soundtrack and is be¬ tion a secret, or are them¬ sound. selves kept in the dark by though we regret to say we ing digitally presented at this the studios. Several times I John Bertram have called studio labels with Editor & Publisher haven’t space to print many theater. I still consider questions about a title or ask¬ ing for a list of titles to be LaserTrader of them. It's impossible to perfect VIDEO the best of the video released with dual-channel Huntington, W. Va. soundtracks. Nearly every such a project; the basic magazines. Bruce Hunt time I have met with a dead Thanks for a dynamic maga¬ Los Angeles end, ranging from ignorance zine. But looking through the point was to show the extent of to outright hostility. “Soundtracking” article I noticed you neglected to list the confusion about videol Heart's Content Craig A. Pearce CED videodisc releases. audio program labeling. Berwyn, Ill. True, no one is making CED players right now, but CED I thought Bonnie Davidson’s I enjoyed your article on the discs are being released as varieties of audio on tape and regularly as clockwork, with Webster's, Please warnings about exercise disc. You were correct about many in stereo. Sometimes, the lack of standards in both in our excitement to be in I appreciated Tim Onosko’s videos in “Dangercize” [May package labeling and video the avant garde we over¬ formats. However, I noticed look our responsibility to “Found Sound” in the April 1985] were a great service to numerous discrepancies in owners of still-current for¬ both your audio chart and the mats. 1985 issue. While at first the home exerciser. Her story itself. (You did state that your chart was based on Thomas C. Flynn skeptical of the claims of advice to rely on exercise Corona, Calif. “theater like” sound, I professionals, not pro¬ Steven Dimeo’s “Soundtrack¬ ing” is just the kind of article thought I would risk nothing fessionals from other fields, I look forward to: packed with interesting information. by wiring up a rear pair of is well-founded. I’d like to Well done. By now I’m sure bookshelf speakers to my ex¬ clear up one point, however. isting sound system Davidson expresses surprise (Harmon/Kardon HK 750 that 1 “include plenty of amp, Sony SL-HF500 VCR). heart-rate checks on Aerobic The sound was incogitable. Dancing, but surprisingly Anyone who has a Hi-Fi VCR offer no explanation on how or LV disc player and is not to do it or what your pulse using the techniques shown should be.” The information in the article is enjoying only is included on the tape Aero¬ one-third of the benefits of bic Dancing Encore and in a his system. My wife Jenifer i pamphlet accompanying the knows this phase decoding original tape. Aerobic Danc¬ process is as remarkable as I ing. She’s right. I wouldn’t claim, for she gauges my en¬ leave out that information! thusiasm by the amount of Jacki F. Sorensen sweat on the palms of my Northridge, Calif. hands. After playing the demo tape supplied with my VCR, amplified by this de¬ sign, I had to towel off! R.D. Willis Puyallup, Wash.

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Feedback Bonnie Davidson’s “Dangercize” pro¬ was never meant to show a bordello, the sold on film or videotape by anyone. vided a much-needed warning to con¬ company thought it was in its best inter¬ sumers. Many exercise physiologists and est to remove the segment. The in¬ When the Kurosawa and Mizoguchi films physical therapists have been expressing formal jam session was not rehearsed as serious concern ever since “go for the you indicated. It was shot twice before were first released, their title cards did bum” became the slogan for what must two different audiences, was never be unconscious masochism. Elizabeth scripted, and was all ad-libbed by Elvis. not carry copyright notices. Under U.S. Noble, R.P.T,, Director of the Child & In 1977 I combined both these specials Maternal Health Center in Cambridge, into one called Memories ofElvis, hosted law these films therefore cannot have Massachusetts, has pointedly addressed by Ann-Margret. This show would the dangers in her publications, lectures, make a wonderful cassette package. copyright protection claimed for them. and seminars. As a clinical consultant Thank you for your attention. she designed a safe and effective ex¬ Moreover, to date no court has upheld ercise regimen featured in Marie Bob Finkel Osmond: Exercises for Mothers-to-Be, a Teram Inc. Janus’ claims to an exclusive lien on the program for muscle toning and relaxation Los Angeles that’s suitable for anyone’s use. Hitchcock and Bergman films mentioned Fascinating Irving D. Goldfein, Ph.D. In May 1985’s “Directory” you list the above. The purpose behind Turell’s let¬ President, 3 West Productions first 10 (of an eventual 79) Star Trek episodes from Paramount Home Video. 1 ter is typical of Janus: to scare collectors Southfield, Mich. found an error; You list all 10 as starring Walter Koenig (as Ensign Pavel away firom other companies selling these We Will Rock You Chekhov). In fact, Koenig did not join How dare you cut down Duran Duran the cast until the beginning of the titles and into Janus’ arms; Janus has like you did in the April issue! [Frank second season on NBC. The first 10 epi¬ Lovece’s “Video Clips” review of Sing sodes would be from the first season. been using this tactic for years. To all Blue Silver]. How dare you say Duran This reasoning would seem logical even Duran has no love for music. You have to Mr. Spock. video collectors, then: buy these titles in no love for music, that’s your problem. And another thing. Duranmania is not Steven L. Cummins confidence firom whomever you choose. silly. It’s just a crush. We Duranies do Los Angeles not appreciate people like you. As it is, despite all the promised Janus It’s not every day we get a letter on A Very Annoyed Duranie stationery that says “from the log of the titles from Embassy, desirable films Tampa, Fla. Starship Enterprise.” have been damned slow to surface— In reference to Ira Robbins’ review of Kind of Up There Duran Duran’s Dancing on the Valentine Lorenzo Carcaterra’s “People” tidbit on whereas for quite awhile now, compa¬ Video 45 [“Quick TakesWideo,” March Vanessa Redgrave [April 1985] ends by 1985], we think the “New Moon on Mon¬ saying that “Vanessa’s Playing for Time nies like Foothill Video (which offers day” video was exquisite. If Robbins is still waiting to be bought in many of cannot appreciate its meaning, maybe he the video stores across the country. ” the full-length Seven Samurai in a fine- should take another look. “Union of the How true. It’s waiting to be bought be¬ Snake” shows Duran’s ability to make in¬ cause we’re waiting for Media Home quality copy for $17.95) have been mak¬ teresting, entertaining, sophisticated, Entertainment and VCL (as opposed to and just plain damn good videos. Com¬ VCI) to get rid of the outrageous $79.95 ing tWs great film available for our legal pared to most other groups around to¬ list price for that 2-1/2-hour movie. day, Duran stands tall in fashion, per¬ $19.95 may be unreasonable to the delectation. Michael Bliss sonality, and good looks, not to mention English-based VCL, but I can spend less the fact that their videos don’t bore you than $80 for a TV movie. CBS/Fox’s Minneapolis, Minn. half to death. But we guess people are tape of El Norte is only $60—and it was entitled to their opinions, right? financed largely by the PBS stations in¬ Directions volved in the American Playhouse group, I enjoy your magazine—it has everything Bonnie Jean Finney the MPAA’s R rating notwithstanding. a video equipment user wants to read Birgitta Carlson This is not to say Playing for Time is bad about. But I would like to say one thing (even with the negative sentiment over about the “Directory” section of new re¬ Skagway, Alaska Redgrave’s politics)—it’s just too bloody leases: I called a few of the companies overpriced. listed under Sources and was told, “We Right. do not sell directly to individuals by mail Philip David Morgan [VISA card, etc.]. You have to go Errata Presley Saint James, N.Y. through a distributor.” Then why bother Regarding your “Video Clips” review of listing the addresses and phone numbers Elvis: The 1968 Comeback Special and More Samurai of sources if they won’t sell to anyone Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii [April 1985], I Your readers should know that the but video distributors? would like to correct some errors. The claims made by Janus Films’ Jonathan so-called 1968 Comeback Special was not Turell in his May 1985 “Feedback” let¬ Mitch Michaud directed by Marty Pasetta. Teram Inc., ter [“The 35mm Samurai”] regarding Edmunston, N.B. my company, produced this special and I Seven Samurai, Yojimbo, Sanjuro, and served as executive producer and hired Ugetsu are unfounded. These films— A few labels listed in the “Directory\" Steve Binder as producer/director. This along with other titles supposedly con¬ do sell directly to the consumer: RKO has was Steve’s first major special. The bor¬ trolled by Janus, like The Seventh Seal just shifted into mail order, and Disney dello segment reinstated into the special and The Thirty-Nine Steps—are indeed in and MGMIUA do it too, according to for tape release was not removed by any the public domain and can thus be legally Programming Editor Ken Winslow (who censor. It was removed by the Singer compiles the “Directory”). As for the oth¬ Sewing Machine Co. Though that segment ers, you still should be able to write for further information on titles even ifyou can’t necessarily buy them directly from sources. Thanks for writing and prompt¬ ing us to explain this. Addendum We got a few calls asking for the phone number of the Pacific Cable Network, profiled ^ Tim Onosko in his May 1985 “New Channels” column, “The K-Mart of Cable Nets.” Burbank directory info doesn’t have it, so here it is for those in¬ terested: 818-848-5745. VIDEO welcomes your comments and questions. Due to the volume of mail we receive, however, it is not possible to send personal replies; please do not include self-addressed envelopes with letters. All letters published may be edited for clarity and space. Address correspondence to Feedback, VIDEO Magazine, 460 West 34th Street, New York, N.Y. 10001.

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New Products 8mm 'Becomes a Lady' Sony CCD-V8 8mm camcorder; RM-EIOO editing controller (inset) With Sony Camcorder and offers a quick timer to automatically er adapter (AC-V8) that can charge two While pledging its continuing commit¬ record from the same channel in 30-min¬ battery packs for one hour each, re- ment to the Beta format, Sony has been ute intervals for periods up to five chargeaWe battery packs (NP-22), DC planning its entry into the new 8mm vid¬ hours. power adapters (DCP-80), RF adapter, eocassette format for some time. Now antenna-connection cables and selector, Sony “Video 8” has arrived in the form One unusual option is the RM-ElOO camcorder carry case, wired VCR/cam¬ of the CCD-V8 camcorder and its raft of edit controller. Taking advantage of the era remote control, camera brace, tri¬ accessories. Sony spokesmen say they electronic (but not mechanical) compati¬ pod, pan titler and filter kit, and an 8mm expect the half-inch Beta/VHS formats bility of Beta, VHS, and 8mm, the con¬ tape winder/eraser. to remain popular for at least another troller facilitates editing 8mm video mov¬ half-decade. By that time 8mm—as ies onto half-inch tape. It can store up to Prices: CCD-V8 camcorder, $1695; standardized in an industry-wide agree¬ eight edit commands to assemble-edit TT-V8 T/T with remote, $300; RM- ment involving 127 manufacturers—may eight program segments, and edits can EIOO edit controller, $180; P6-30 tape, begin to overtake half-inch’s lead, if in¬ be electronically previewed before they $12.99; P6-60, $13.99; P6-90, $15.99. dustry predictions pan out. are committed to tape. Sony’s 8mm setup is not the first, Other accessories include an AC pow¬ but may be the highest-quality. The five- pound camcorder produces richly satu¬ TDK Embraces 8mm TDKP6-90MP rated colors and its 300 lines of horizon¬ With 3 Tape Lengths 8mm tape tal resolution are comparable to better half-inch equipment. The CCD (charge As the 8mm format gathers steam, Also forthcoming from TDK is an coupled device) solid-state image sensor TDK is bringing out the first 8mm vid¬ 8mm head cleaner, but price and availa¬ raises the 190,000 pixels (picture ele¬ eocassette to bear its name. The P6-90 bility have not been announced. ments) of previous CCDs to 250,000 for MP and P6-30 MP are part of a project¬ a 30 percent increase in sharpness, with ed series of “MP” tapes that will even¬ Prices: P6-120 MP, to be announced; minimum-illumination sensitivity of 19 tually include a forthcoming 120-minute P6-90 MP, $17.60; P6-30 MP, $13. lux. The CCD-V8 has flying erase tape. The MP series are metal-particle heads—a first on consumer gear—to tapes, something that figures prominent¬ circle No. 150 on Reader Service Card. produce glitchless edits. It also comes ly in the design of the 8mm format. In with a detachable one-inch electronic the switch from metal oxides to pure viewfinder and 6:1 fl.4 power zoom metal, TDK engineers had to overcome lens. the problem of oxidation (or rusting), which they did by finding a way to coat Sony is producing metal-particle tapes each individual particle. for use with the camcorder in lengths of 30, 60, and 90 minutes, with a 120 min¬ ute tape (P6-120) promised in the near future. That means a maximum record¬ ing time of two hours at the unit’s single speed (called SP, ironically, like the fast¬ est VHS speed), but the standards agreement allows for a slower LP speed that may show up in later Sony 8mm products. The CCD-V8 offers AFM (au¬ dio frequency modulation) sound—similar to Beta/VHS Hi-Fi, but mono—though the standards agreement also allows for stereo PCM (pulse code modulation) dig¬ ital sound. This feature has yet to appear on any 8mm product, though Sony and others offer PCM adapters for use with half-inch machines. Unlike these, 8mm PCM will produce sound with picture when it arrives. Among available accessory options is a three week/four event 181-channel tun¬ er/timer (TT-V8). It comes with a 10- key wireless remote control (RM-84)

MUSICViSIOa? COLLECT ■nIBIlencamp A new collection of hit videos, rare petformonces and candid interviews. Contains 11 Great Songs Including: JACK & DIANE HURTS SO GOOD CRUMBLIN' DOWN AUTHORITY SONG and PINK HOUSES

Sharp Pics, Hot Sound: forward and reverse). Both Jog and on the remote for direct-access channel 1 'SuperBeta' Hi-Fis Unveiled Shuttle can be used for frame-by-frame selection. search in both directions—a boon to Meanwhile, Beta lives. Sony has home tape editors. Another unique fea¬ The SL-HFR70 SuperBeta is Beta Hi- introduced four new Betamaxes and ture is the Tab Marker Indexing Sys¬ Fi-ready, meaning it will deliver AFM a Betamovie camcorder featuring in¬ tem, which allows preselecting of up to stereo sound with the addition of an creased “SuperBeta” picture resolu¬ nine points on a tape for random access. optional adapter (HRF-200). Among its tion—as much as 20 percent greater The index marks can be recorded with¬ other features are 1/5 to 1/10 slow-mo than a standard Beta VCR. Three of the out harming program material. The tun¬ advance, cable-compatible tuning for 148 VCRs are also Beta Hi-Fi, and the er receives 181 channels—including channels, six-event/seven-day program¬ fourth is Beta Hi-Fi-rcarfy, producing Hi- MTS stereo, like the rest of these new mability, and a real-time linear tape Fi audio with the addition of an outboard Betamaxes—and the timer is program¬ counter. adapter. It is ironic that Sony has mable for 8 events over 21 days. achieved the ultimate perfection of the The BMC-550K Betamovie uses the half-inch VCR just as it is also girding for Both the SL-HR600 and SL-HR400 same kind of CCD image sensor as the a big 8mm push. SuperBeta Hi-Fi VCRs have six-event/ Sony 8mm unit profiled above to deliver seven-day tuner/timers plus other its SuperBeta image resolution. While it The top-of-the-line table model in features including wireless remote has been discussed in these pages be¬ Sony’s line is now the SL-HR900, the BetaScan, BetaSkipScan, and automatic fore, it’s worth noting here that it’s only unit with a new feature, the Jog functions such as auto rewind. The 400 part of the SuperBeta line. dial/Shuttle ring system. The Jog dial sports 118-channel cable-ready tuning, handles special-effects playback and tun¬ while the step-up 600 adds special ef¬ Prices: SL-HF900, $1500; SL-HF600, er/timer functions. The Shuttle ring con¬ fects such as still frame, frame-by-frame $1000; SL-HF400, $800; SL-HF70, trols picture search (at speeds variable advance, and 10-button Expregs Tuning $550; HFP-200 Hi-Fi adapter, $250. from 1/5 to twice BetaScan speed in For additional information. New VHS Panasonics Have Hi-Fi, MTS, Tech-4 Heads The Panasonic VCR line is always worth watching for VHS users. The company has announced four new VHS Hi-Fi units—three of them with Tech-4 head configurations for optimum picture quality in special-effects modes, and two with MTS (multichannel television sound) capability for recording stereo broadcast programs. In addition one Discwashec The clear choice for video care. Tape oxides can build up cleaning system. The to maintain picture and on your VCR tape heads. cleaning is thorough, sound clarity-and to pro¬ Result? Fuzzy picture, removing impurities from tect your VCR from costly mushy sound. The both video and audio repairs. You can trust answer? Discwasher heads along the entire Discwasher, leader in the Video Head Cleaner. It’s path—safely. With no technology of audio and a revolutionary, patent- harmful chemical solvents. video care. pending, non-abrasive dry Use Discwasher regularly J The sound and sight come through clean and clear. discwasher 1407 North Providence Road, RO. Box 6021, Columbia, MO 65205

I On Jan. 28,1985, some of America’s ^mSeON - greatest music stars came together COLLECT THE BEST to heip make a better worid. ■WiWM 1 DAN AYKROYD BETTE MtDLER Profits realized by RCA/Columbia Pictures HARRY BELAFONTE WiLLtE NELSON Home Video/MusicVision from the sale of LiNDSEYBUCKiNGHAM JEFFREY OSBORNE “We Are The World-The Video Event” KiM CARNES STEVE PERRY will be contributed to USA for Africa. RAY CHARLES THE POiNTER SiSTERS BOB DYLAN LIONEL RICHIE NOW AVAILABLE SHEiLAE. SMOKEY ROBINSON ON VIDEOCASSETTE BOBGELOOF KENNY ROGERS DARYL HALL & JOHN OATES DIANA ROSS ALSO AVAILABLE ON LASERDISC JAMES iNGRAM PAUL SIMON Ad space contributed by this publiGalion. JACKiE JACKSON BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN ♦SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE LATOYA JACKSON TINA TURNER ©Uyout and Design 1985 RCA Columbia Plotures Home Video. All Rights Resenred. MARLON JACKSON DIONNE WARWICK MICHAEL JACKSON STEVIE WONDER RANDY JACKSON TITO JACKSON ALJARREAU WAYLON JENNINGS BILLY JOEL CYNDILAUPER HUEY LEWIS & THE NEWS KENNY LOGGINS Written by MICHAEL JACKSON and LIONEL RICHIE Conducted and Produced by QUINCY JONES F-or Information, circle No. 9 onI Read&trSentce Card.

New Products gram/two-week timer, and 107-channel tion. 99-position tuner. Prices: PV-1740, $1300; PV-1640, model offers “MTS adaptability”: it can be upgraded to receive stereo with an Panasonic also has a VMS Hi-Fi VCR $1150; PV-1545, $875; PV-1442, $750. optional adapter that can be added later. for the budget-conscious. The PV-1442 is a two-head unit with 19-function wire¬ circle No. 152 an Reader Service Card. At the top of the new Panasonic line less remote. A front loader, it also of¬ is model PV-1740. The VCR comes with fers two-week/four-program timer pro¬ First Vector Research VCR a direct-access quartz tuner, and special grammability, one-touch recording, Is 1 of 3 VHS Models direct-drive capstan motors maintain 107-channel 99-position tuner, compati¬ their speed with little or no fluctuation to bility for split-track Dolby stereo record¬ The V-2000 is the first of three VCRs provide the sharpest possible picture. ing, a picture-sharpness control, and to be introduced by Vector Research, an Available special effects include Om¬ special effects in the SLP mode including audio brand name that is just getting in¬ nisearch, field still, field advance, and Omnisearch, frame still, and slojv mo¬ volved in video. The mono VHS unit variable-speed slow motion in both the comes with a 12-function wireless re¬ SP and SLP speeds. The 28-function mote, 4-event/21-day timer (including a wireless remote functions with the tun¬ 30-minute segment timer), and 105- er’s direct-access tuning and also oper¬ channel cable-ready tuner. The V- ates certain Panasonic TVs. The timer is 2000 records and plays back in all three good for eight events over three weeks. VHS speeds (LP aficionados take note). Another interesting feature is multiple Design features include a digital servo electronic indexing for fast access to en¬ system that Vector Research says is 10 coded program segments. times faster than conventional analog servo systems, with 75 percent fewer Like the 1740, the PV-1640 has a parts controlling the drum-head and cap¬ built-in MTS decoder as well as Tech-4 stan. A 45-degree-angled mirror shows heads. The 169-channel tuner has di¬ the tape pack as it unwinds. rect-access tuning, which also can be used from the 21-function wireless re¬ Price: $499. mote. The timer is programmable for eight programs over three weeks. Spe¬ For additional information, cial effects functions include Omnisearch circle No. 153 on Reader Service Card. cue and review, field still, and variable slow motion. The PV-1545 can be upgraded to re¬ ceive MTS sound with an optional adapter (TUG-3010S). The unit features a 21-function wireless remote, four-pro¬ PERSONAL COLOR TV BROADCASTING SYSTEM! • Broadcasts color picture and sound from any video camera, VCR Audio Subcarrier Modulation: >k deviation. 50 Microseconds or other video input device directly into any number of standard TV sets or VCR's over a range of approx. 1200 ft. (subject to local Audio Bandwidth: 50 Hz-20 kHz Spurious and Harmonics: Less than-60 dBc • The TRV-4 is portable — VCR can be remotely controlled from camera (VCR auto-pause switch). Video - 0,5-3.0 Volts pk. - pk, composite into 75 Ohms. n Automatic video gain control • Powered by any standard 12V battery. Audio - switchable AUX/MIC • Complete with matched 3\" antenna, antenna angle, antenna Aux -140 mV RMS into 10k Ohms for 100% mod. at 1 k Mic. - 50 microvolts to 10 mV RMS into 10k Ohms cable plus magnetic foot, cigarette lighter power cable, audio (incorporates AGO) cable, video cable, spare fuse and tool set. Independent AUX/MIC sensitivity adjustments. Standard 10 pin type J Camera Socket. This unique soiid-state system costs U S. $679.00 pius U S. $15.00 for shipping and Dimensions: 2\" x iv x BV Vifeight: 2 lbs. handling. Money-bock guarantee. Stormit Electronics Inc. Optional accessories include portable rechargeable battery with cariying case, Box 1234, Station B VCR auto-pouse switch, attenuator and 20-watt linear amplifier. Ottawa, Ontario, KIP 6R3. Canada 1 □ Please send me your tree illustrated brochure. Output Power: Minimum 3 Watts peak sync @ 13,8 V power su 11 o 1 am enclosing my check (or money order) for U.S. S-_for_TRV-4(s) 1 Carrier Frequency: Two crystal controlled channels, 463.25 Mh^ at U.S, $679.00 plus U.S. $15,00 for shipping and handling ear Frequency Accuracy: 0,005%. 0-40 Degrees C Modulation System: Video - DSB AM negative 1 FM Modulation on DSB AM subcarrier (switch selectable) 1 riTV .STATF ZIP 1 Video Bandwidth: US-Greater than 4,1 MHz. CCIR-Greater th Greater than 5,5 MHz, J1_ Audio Subcarrier Frequency: Switch Selectable. US-4,5 MHz, CCI Other harmonics Ic. Second harmonic less than-40 dBc.

I a gNTIL NOW IT'S AS IF YOU'VE BEEN SEEING IN BIAOKAND WHITE, m /prepare YOURSEtf FOR COLOR AS YOU'VE NEVER SEEN //color before. THE ALL NEWSCOTCH'’'EXG VIDEOCASSETTES. OCOtCll ROLLING YOUR WAY IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE.

New Products Sharp VMS Sports Solid Feature Roster Sharp’s VC-5F7U has all the most im¬ portant features: VHS Hi-Fi sound, built- in MTS broadcast stereo decoder, and four heads for noiseless still frame and frame advance. An automatic program search system (APSS) provides quick access of en¬ coded programs. Visual search operates at 7 times normal speed in forward or reverse. The timer can record up to 5 events over 14 days. The unit comes with a 14-function wireless remote con¬ trol and is front-loading. Price: $995.95. THE RECOTON V615 STEREO COLOR PROCESSOR ALLOWS YOU TO PRODUCE UP TO 4 HIGH QUALITY VIDEO TAPE COPIES SIMULTANEOUSLY FROM ONE ORIGINAL WHILE ADJUSTING THE COLOR, CONTRAST, TINT, AND DETAIL OF VIDEOTAPES YOU WISH TO DUPLICATE OR RECORD OFF THE AIR. For additional information, circle No. 154 on Reader Service Card. Video Magazine's October 1983 Test Report stated: Sony XBR Goes Digital With Built-In Program \"The Recoton V615 is an effective color processor with a wide range... we recommend Sony has a new wrinkle on its well-re¬ ceived KV-25XBR 25-inch monitor/re¬ it for its flexibility and cost.” ceiver. It’s the KV-25DXR—Sony’s first digital TV. For the best possible picture insist on Recoton “Gold Connection\" The 25DXR does not provide a pic- high performance Video Hookup Cables. ture-within-picture inset function as does Toshiba’s digital TV. Instead it opts for Recoton....Setting New Standards of Technical Excellence in Video, Audio a computer program called the Home Management Helper. Used with a re¬ Computer, Telephone, and Stereo Headphone Accessories. mote-control alphanumeric keypad, the Helper serves as an electronic memo H re c DTD n® ^ pad that stores information and program¬ Recoton Corporation. 46-23 Crane Street, Long Island City. New York 11101, 718-392-6442 ming instructions for upcoming events, auto tum-on/off, and channel blocking. ENGINEERED Calling up categories such as Birthdays, for VIDEO Appointments, or Billing Schedule, the user can program names, dates, or NEW VIDEO ENSIGN TRIPOD events—up to 80 formatted pages. with Built-in MONOPOD Whenever an event falls within the next two weeks, an on-screen reminder ap- Versatile tripod designed especially for video cameras and featuring stronger square channel legs to support weight of larger cameras. Includes Spring Head to counter-balance camera weight forward or back; friction control on elevator to prevent camera descending too fast; 3-way panhead for versatility; 3-sec legs for compactness; leg braces for sturdiness; fast lever leg locks. Special feature is the elevator column which dis¬ mounts from tripod into 3-sec telescoping Monopod with panhead. Use Tripod indoors... Use Monopod outdoors... VIDEO KADDYKART Moves VCR and acces¬ sories on roller base while camera mounts on telescoping rod and panhead. Dismounts for use as Monopod for camera alone. SEND FOR Illustrated Tripod brochure showing complete line of heavy-duty ACME-LITE MANUFACTURING CO. iKoV*iE^?L^oo76^^^^^ I Reader Service Card.

()[p(rtiMtyRarely KncxisTWice LIMITED Gold EditionII LIFE WITH MICKEY! Opportunity’s at your door, right now, with BmMf GoldEdition H. Seven videocassettes featuring classic Disney cartoons never before released on video! With rare screen appearances by Mickey, Donald, Goofy, Pluto and the gang. What a collection! Ige With Mickey! Donald’s Bee Pictures and An ^icerAndA Duck. The WorldAccording To Goofy. From Pluto With love. ?hs, How The Best Was Won and The Disney Dream Factory. As a ^ial bonus, each title has its own introduction, produced exclusively for this edition. It’s your golden opportunity. At the incredibly low price of $29.95* per videocassette, you’ll want to collect all seven. But remember. Limited GoldEdition M really is limited. And when they’re gone, they’re gone. When they’re gone, they’re gone. J

RECOTON GOLD CONNECTION® VIDEO CABLES New Products_ HAVE BECOME THE INDUSTRY STANDARD FOR HIGH pears in the screen’s upper left comer PERFORMANCE VIDEO RECORDING AND HOOKUP BECAUSE when the set is turned on. ■ Gold is the most conductive of all metals and, therefore, Price: $1349. eliminates interference and improves picture and sound quality. ■ Recoton offers specially designed cables for video, audio and For additional information, circle No. 155 on Reader Service Card. RF application to insure optimum performance. For the best possible picture insist on Recoton Gold Connection® 20-Inch Panasonic Yields 480-Line Image Resolution high performance video hookup cables. Looking for a TV that can produce Recoton....Setting New Standards of Technical Excellence in Video, 480 lines of horizontal resolution? Pan¬ Audio, Computer, Telephone and Stereo Headphone Accessories. asonic has a 20-incher that makes that impressive spec, and it even has a built- For more information, contact: nrECDTon* in stereo MTS decoder. Recoton Corporation, 46-23 Crane Street, Long City, New York 11101, 718-392-6442 The CTG-2077R’s data-grade picture tube’s 2000-character resolution is suita¬ ble for crisp computer-graphics display, and it comes with two kinds of RGB in¬ puts: RGB TEXT terminals for receiving teletext signals, and RGB TTL terminals to interface with home computers. For regular picture viewing the unit has a square-comer tube that provides a virtu¬ ally distortion-free image without loss of information even at the comers. A dual VHF antenna connection allows direct access to 125 cable channels as well as to 69 unscrambled channels with¬ out need for a separate converter. An on-screen display shows channel num¬ ber, time, the countdown for a sleep- timer feature, volume level, video signal source, and antenna source. The unified remote controls all TV functions and many Panasonic remote VCR func¬ tions too. A four-watt amplifier powers the unit’s own dual speakers, and it can provide eight watts of juice for a pair of external speakers. Price: $999. For additional information, circle No. 156 on Reader Service Card. Curtis Mathes 25-lncher Is First with MTS Decoder In some parts of the country Curtis Mathes is a big name in electronics. (Any company that offers a full four-year warranty is not to be overlooked.) And now Curtis Mathes is dipping into MTS broadcast stereo with its first product to include the MTS decoder: the M2582 component TV, a 25-mch model. The unit has a comb filter for optimum image resolution. It scan-tunes up to 134 22 Video

When you wish upon a star, your dream comes true* It’s the original Pinocchio, A tradition no one should miss. Wdt Disney’s masterpiece of - THE Now you can relive your animation and music. A <^CL>4SSICS memories of Pinocchio classic you never dreamed ^ again and again. And cherish you’d see on videocassette. ^ its magic forever.

© 1985 KONICA U.S.A., tl HO OIHERVIDEO CAMERA I CAN MEASURE DOWN TO mis. Introducing the world's lightest, most compact auto-focus color video camera. The Konica CV-601. It weighs only 1.8 lbs. And measures 0nly9.3\"Hx2.9\"Wx4.7\"D. To understand how small that is, place /our hand next to this actual size photograph. To understand how easy it is to use, get your hands on the real thing. How did we manage to give you some¬ thing that amounts to so little? Practice. After all, we've been making camera innovations longer than most companies have been making cameras. Monica IT LIVES UP TO YQUR IMAGINATION.

New Products ton 312 and 313 powered loudspeakers THE ALLSOP PRO VIDEO CARE KIT. channels using a phase-locked quartz is size. The 312 measures 18 inches tuning system, with programmable-scan high by 6-1/2 wide by 11 deep, while Discover channel selection. A dual antenna input the 313 is 23 inches high to match the allows switching between a pair of differ¬ height of Proton’s 602M monitor. why Allsop ent sources. Other picture-quality fea¬ tures include auto black-level retention, The all-black speakers each have a has the auto peak white-suppression, auto flesh- pair of 4-1/2-inch acoustic-suspension best video tone correction, and a switching regula¬ woofers—one passive, the other pow¬ starter kit, tor power supply for a stable picture. ered by a 20-watt amplifier electronically The unit comes with a full-function wire¬ crossed over to a 1-3/4-inch ferro-flu- now avail¬ less remote as well. id-cooled dome tweeter, driven in turn by its own five-watt amp. A pair of con¬ able for the Price; not available. trols adjust tweeter and input levels. VCR owner. For additional information. The built-in amps are rated at less than Each Kit in¬ .03 percent Total Harmonic Distortion cludes an Allsop VCR Cleaner Bose RoomfAates NVake to work off dirt, a VCR dust cover Good Video/TV Speakers and frequency response is 60-20,OOOHz to protect your valuable equip¬ I / -3dB. ment, and two blank recording Bose—one of the biggest names in tapes that contain a special loudspeakers—suggests you hook up a Price; $300/pair. pair of its RoomMate minispeakers to your VCR and hear what happens. Avail¬ For additional information, able in black or white, the compact circle No. 159 on Reader Service Card. speakers provide room-filling sound Akai Vid/Aud Black Box when plugged into the audio output of a Offers Joystick Control VCR or disc player. Each 4-1/2-inch unit, measuring 6 by 9 by 6 in¬ Joystick-controlled color correc¬ ches, contains one full-range driver with tion—move it this way for red, that way twin ports, and a mono-to-stereo adapt¬ for blue—is one feature of the Akai PS- er allows use with conventional TVs as V20U audio/video processor. A sliding well as video components. Optional ac¬ control provides variable mixing between cessories include mounting arms, wall Mic and Line. Another double slide con¬ brackets, and a travel bag (the Room- trol adjusts both audio and video fading. Mates can also be taken anywhere and Also having slide controls are adjust¬ used with pocket stereos). ments for Luminance, Color level, and Hue. The (color) Correct, Colorize, En¬ Price; $199 hancer, and Stabilizer functions all have pushbutton controls with inset LEDs -eicp/e No. 158 on Reader Service Card. right above variable knob controls for bonus—three Proton Powered Speakers each function. Finally, the unit provides complete fitness Come In 2 Sizes DNR (Dynamic Noise Reduction) circuit¬ segments from ry that selectively reduces high-frequen¬ the three best¬ The main difference between the Pro¬ cy noise depending on the volume level selling exercise of the signal. It is available in either videocassettes: black or silver. • JANE FONDA'S Price; $349.95. circle No. 160 on Reader Service Card. Teknika Box Turns Computer Monitors to TVs WORKOUT KARLlOWMftR When you computer users have • JANE FONDA’S word-processed your fill, you might WORKOUT CHALLENGE consider relaxing and watching a little TV. With the help of the Teknika TVR- • JANE FONDA’S PRIME TIME WORKOUT 20, you won’t even have to get up from So shape-up your video¬ your workstation. cassette re¬ The TVR-20 adds TV capability to vir¬ corder, and work off pounds with the best! tually any computer monitor. Connect the 77-channel unit to a TV antenna or midband cable, then to the audio/video terminals on the computer and monitor, and you’ll have 10-key direct-access eiAllbOP channel selection. The unit also has a channel-preset on/off switch, TV/com- puter mode switch, and fine-tuning up/down buttons on its front panel. Price; $119.95. World Leaders in Hi-Tech Care Products ALLSOP, INC.; PO. Box 23; Bellingham.WA 98227 U.S.A. For additional information. _ circle No. 161 on Reader Service Card.

Fine Tuning Your Video Questions Answered by Roderick come on at the same time when tion (usually Channel 2) laser powers dropped CAV, Woodcock you turn on the VCR? whenever you turned off the which provides a better picture. power. With many TV sets, Now this. Don’t they realize QPols Apart 1 have an NEC VC-739 the set retains any adjust¬ that removing all the LV In your review of the Beta Hi-Fi VCR with an AC ments of volume, color, tint, disc’s advantages over tape Polaroid 8mm camcorder convenience outlet on the back brightness, or contrast only (cost, instant access, special (March 1985) you indicated which can be operated in both as long as it is plugged in. If effects) they are cutting the for¬ that the Polavision system was the switched and unswitched the power is removed, the mat’s throat? What can I do? an early attempt to display positions. One advantage of next time the set is turned on, movies on a TV screen. That’s the switched position seems all the settings come back up Thomas Frieder a mistake. While the projector obvious: to connect an FM at an average level preset at Staten Island, N. Y. for the special Polavision cas¬ tuner for recording stereo the factory. Which means settes looked a lot like a TV simulcasts with the VCR’s you’ve got to readjust every¬ A Thanks for the feedback screen, it was actually a con¬ timer. When the timer turns thing to taste. ventional movie projector that the VCR on, the FM tuner will on the switched/un¬ rear-projected its images onto come on as well. Depending on the make switched controversy. As for the screen. and model of your FM tuner, your laser lament, if you feel The disadvantage I’ve dis¬ it’s possible that a skilled re¬ the quality of the software is Norman Anthony covered is that with my digital pairman could incorporate a slipping, write to Pioneer San Diego, Calif FM tuner, the presets do not backup circuit powered by a Video directly (85 Oxford remain \"set\" when the power is couple of penlight batteries or Drive, Moonachie, N.J. A You’re quite correct. turned off. So even if I try to a capacitor, just to keep some 07074) and put your com¬ preprogram the tuner through power flowing to the tuner plaint on the record. The Polavision Player the VCR timer, it still loses the memory even when the main was much like a regular super FM station when it comes on. power is turned off. Circuits But while Pioneer does 8 movie projector except that Do you know any way around like this are now common¬ most LV pressing in the U.S. it would only take the special this problem so that I can still place with the timers in most (3M does the rest, but mostly two-minute Polavision movie use the VCR’s timer with the current multi-event VCRs. for industrial clients), deci¬ cassettes. And just for the tuner (other than simply leav¬ Such a modification could sions as to features included record, the model number of ing the tuner turned on)? solve your problem provided on the discs and where to the first Polaroid camera, in¬ you can find someone compe¬ break a movie from one side troduced in 1948, was the A. Clark tent to do it for you at a of the disc to the other are all 95A—not the IlOA, a more Danville, Calif reasonable price. made by personnel in the sophisticated model with home-video departments of manual shutter speeds and f- A Well, you’ve made a QLaser Lament the various program com¬ stops which was introduced a In response to Paul few years later. good case for the useful¬ Mathews’ question in the panies. If there’s a specific ti¬ ness of having a switched AC April issue, there are VCRs tle you’d like to see with cer¬ QPower Play outlet on a VCR. I can visual¬ available with switched out¬ tain format features, it makes ln your reply to the letter ize a number of situations lets, like the NEC 739E and more sense to lobby the stu¬ from Paul Mathews where powering up the VCR several Mitsubishi VCRs, dios, rather than Pioneer, which appeared in the April and having another accessory which claim to give you which just presses the discs “Fine Tuning’ column, you come on at the same time (TV complete remote control of any to order. stated that you couldn’t see a set, proc amp, or FM tuner) non-remote-controlled TV that practical use for having a would be a real asset. But, as you plug into these VCRs. Paramount Home Video, switched AC outlet on the back you’ve discovered, whether for example, responded posi¬ of a VCR. Why not connect the accessory plugged into Now a question: on whom tively to a demand for a CAV your TV set to this outlet so the socket will work well de¬ may I put pressure to have version of Raiders of the Lost that both the VCR and TV pends entirely on how it be¬ chapter indexing encoded on Ark. And other CAV press¬ haves when not receiving more LaserVision discs? It has ings, most recently of classics power. gotten to the point where like King Kong and Citizen some titles are being re¬ Kane, are appearing from In the case of your FM leased without encoding, i.e., quality-conscious indepen¬ tuner, you lose the setting on the Stones’ Video Rewind, dent companies like Criterion the tuner. The pushbutton The Three Stooges disc, (Box 2310, Santa Monica, tuners on some early VCRs Police Squad, and Purple worked this way as well, skip¬ Rain to name a few. First the ping back to the lowest posi¬

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Fine Tuning Calif. 90406), which are seriously trying I haven’t tried any as yet, but those rather than the standard RCA phono jack to cultivate a videophile-oriented busi¬ special antistatic sprays sold for comput¬ used on virtually all other video products. ness among laserphiles. er monitors look like a good idea—any¬ The manual for Pioneer’s LD-1100 play¬ thing to keep the dirt and grime from er (exactly like yours, except with the Screen Cleaning settling onto the tube. They’re available infrared remote control) describes this from computer stores or larger station¬ jack as follows: “The [video out] terminal Q~ What is the best thing to use to clean ery stores. is only for connection to a color video a TV screen? monitor (that has a video input terminal). Robert B. Caffery Sr. QOf Pegs & Holes It provides the direct video signal. This Park City, Utah I have a Hitachi VT-llA VCR, a 13-inch Sony Trinitron, Pioneer terminal is not for conventional TV sets. ’’ A TV screens tend to attract a lot of LD-660 LVplayer, and Radio Shack But since the designers used an F- Video EnhancerlStabilizer—all of which dust to their surfaces because of I want to combine into one system. I want connector for it (identical to the connec¬ static electricity. The easiest way to to route the signal from the LV player tor for the Channel 3/4 RF output also clean that is to use a clean, dry, lintless through the enhancer to the VCR. The provided), I can see why you would mis¬ cloth. For smudges and fingerprints, ap¬ manual for the enhancer shows a cable take it for another RF output. The de¬ ply a glass cleaner (like Windex) to a running from the video output of the LV scription in the manual also implies that it similar cloth (rather than spraying the player to the video input of the enhancer. can be used only for connection to a color screen surface itself), and then wipe it But my LV player's video output terminal monitor. Perhaps this ambiguity is de¬ evenly across the face of the screen. is used only for an optional video monitor liberate, to discourage people from think¬ You’ll do a safer and better job if the set is connection. Do I have to hook the Antenna ing about copying discs. In any event, the off while you do this. Since the cloth is In terminal of the LV player to the video F-connector marked video out is the one likely to pick up a lot of dirt, replace it input of the enhancer, or what? I want to you want to feed into your enhancer and with a clean one for another once-over— record LV discs on to video tape, but so far then into your VCR. paying special attention to the dirt that I haven’t been able to do it. What am I accumulates at the edges of the screen, doing wrong? What you’ll need to do, though, is con¬ where the glass meets the plastic frame. vert that F-connector to a phono jack. I use a cotton swab to clean out these Bernard Boykin Larger video stores have one-piece crevices. Harvey, III. adapters to do this. If you can’t find one, a TV repairmen can probably build one It’s surprising how dirty a screen can A I’m sure that a lot of the confusion easily by attaching an F-connector to an become in a short time. I’ve seen a few RCA phono jack through a short length of where you could write your name in the you have encountered stems from coaxial. And while it’s a simple oper¬ grime on the glass. That kind of filth can the fact that the video output terminal on ation, it’s probably best to let a repair¬ impair picture quality and a thorough your player is a threaded F-type jack cleaning can really sharpen the image. man do this unless you’ve done it befor□e. STARRING “STUNNING!” IJOHN HURT MICHAEL RADFORD’S ADMIRABLE, BLEAKLY RICHARD BURTON BEAUTIFUL NEW SCREEN ADAPTATION EXERTS A AVAIIABIE ON FASCINATION THAT DEMANDS ATTENTION. John Hurt’s performance, however, is the film’s center of gravity. He is splendid.” -Vincent Canby, New York Times ^TDK VIDEO CASSETTE TAPE home video For additional inrormation 0. 10 on Reader Serv

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Videoqram The Electronic Intelligencer by William tions. CCV provides a bar¬ er CCV’s 150,000-tape in¬ you’re going to open a Hil¬ 4 code club card, and members ventory (10 to 50 of each ti¬ ton, ” Djian says, “it had bet¬ ’ Wolfe present them at one of the tle appropriate to demand), ter be a Hilton. ” If you like computer terminals to gain the exclusivity of a private and stay in Hiltons, you’ll like ; Le Club access to the vast display club, the ambience. The Cine Cine Club Video. Walk up Manhattan’s Sixth area. For the $39.95 fee you Club is appealing to the eye, can borrow five tapes. Ex¬ tranquil. It admirably pro¬ Olympics II Avenue and you can’t miss it: change any number whenev¬ vides city dwellers with a You’d think ABC-TV’s ex¬ Nearly a city block long, with er you want, keeping your pleasing place to go. a wall of glass revealing a total at five. There’s no pres¬ haustive coverage of the 1984 ceiling three stories above. sure to watch a video the The Cine Club provides Olympics was enough. ESPN Computer terminals at either night you borrow it, no pres¬ first-class service, but you didn’t—the first 2 weeks of end manned by operators in sure to return it the following pay for it too. “You can’t go the all-sports cable network’s three-piece suits. Hostesses, morning. And they’re all VHS. out to dinner one night for July schedule will be domi¬ in Paris-designed dresses of $40,” Djian says. Many New nated by Spirit of Excellence, soft grey, glide along the F'rom a strict cost-per-tape Yorkers would agree. Djian nearly 200 hours of ’84 Olym¬ aisles. Rows of videotapes— viewpoint, CCV becomes will open several other New pics action culled from ABC’s over 7000 titles. A three- economical only if you York locations, all in “white- year-old broadcast. foot-tall red-white-and- trade about three or more collar working areas. ” He blue logo. Cine Club Video— tapes every week during the foresees franchises in other Spirit runs 10 to 11 hours so it’s a video shop. Elegant, year. If you don’t use your cities, all in keeping with the per day beginning June 29 and but a known quantity. VCR quite that often, consid¬ flagship club’s style. “If ending July 14. But it’s not just a 16-day rerun. ESPN’s Inside it’s just as im¬ Craig Levinsohn says the pressive, but the known show’s ’84 Olympics seg¬ quantity becomes elusive. ments are from ABC’s “inter¬ CCV does not sell videos; it national feed”—that’s what only rents. “Avis and Hertz the rest of the world saw do not sell cars, ’’ says found¬ while we watched Mary Lou ing chairman Jacques-Henri Retton’s chins multiply be¬ Djian. CCV originated in fore her each and every vault Paris, and now six do busi¬ and the countless replays in ness in France. “Why sell? between. There’s also inter¬ Nobody is buying. ’’ CCV is a views with 16 American gold private club—there’s no off- medalists, personal commen¬ the-street traffic. Members tary on their performances, sign a year-long contract, and more recent footage de¬ paying in advance or having voted to “where they are now. ” $39.95 a month billed to their A nice surprise—they’re credit card. No cash transac- not all doing guest spots on bad Hollywood sitcoms. Shrink Rap give people something they New York chapter and direc¬ What will those Califor¬ never had before, ’’ he says. tor of Associates Biofeedback, Medical Group, says “it nians think of next? A twist on “A chance to talk and discover sounds very suspicious, like the old video-dating game. things about themselves, an the selling of presidential opportunity to make a clear candidates on TV—there’s Therapy Selection Service in choice. ” The pre-video probe no way to judge sincerity and Santa Ana sits clients down, runs about 30 minutes, the ability.” Wineburg uses video categorizes their specific “doctored” videos from 3 to as a visual record of patients’ problems, then shows them 5; you get both for $67. Each reactions when teaching videotapes of psychologists clinician has a specialty— young doctors, but “as a pre¬ 2 or psychiatrists so they can family or eating, for example dictor, [video] doesn’t work. ■s choose Dr. Right. —and uses the tape to ex¬ It conveys very superficial plain his qualifications. physical characteristics, con¬ TSS’s Dean Wilson calls it trolled mannerisms, voice 5 “an educational service’-’; you Wilson’s had no feedback tone—we don’t think any of from the local chapter of the these things help someone can call it a referral service, American Psychiatric Asso¬ choose a qualified clinician. ” c The clinicians pay to get on ciation. But Dr. Elliot Wine- ■| TSS’s file, though all are burg, fellow of the APA’s ■fe licensed and accredited 5 according to Wilson. “We Video

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It’s got everything Dr., Strongsville, Ohio waste weekends buzzing you need to turn your VCR 44136; 1-800-221-2200) runs from flea market to yard phone number of the source into a lean, mean, calorie¬ 7 hours, with a single 10- sale—Telocator, a free au¬ fighting machine. minute soap segment to be dio/video “electronic classi¬ —and they’re updated every viewed each day and the 2- fieds service, ” is only a phone The soap segments re¬ stage exercise video engaged call away. business day. “All the buyer volve around a family’s efforts 3 times a week. The em¬ to lose weight over one phasis is on maintaining good The computer database month, and help viewers be¬ habits once you’ve completed gathers information on new, come aware of food intake the series. There’s also a used, demo, even rental and the importance of ex¬ heady 52-page program book equipment from manufac¬ ercise. Real-life predica¬ complete with weight ta¬ turers, dealers, and original ments—done in semi-classic bles, progress chart, menu owners all over the country. soap style—are constantly plaimer, recipes, calorie “It’s a high-tech solution to a offered, and common sense counter, and troubleshoot¬ basic need—helping people solutions are provided. It’s ing guide. And yes. Lean find accessories or equipment so wholesome you expect Cuisines are on the din¬ no longer available from the Scott Baio to walk in at any ner menus. manufacturer,” says Teloca- moment. Talk show seg¬ has to do is contact the source for the actual pur¬ chase. We are not a broker, ” Suttle adds. Contact Telocator from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (EST), Mon¬ day through Friday, at 904- 743-0665, or use electron¬ ic mail services The Source (#BBQ270), MCI (TELOCA¬ TOR), CompuServe (75156, 2645). If that Quasar Great Time Machine is cluttering up the attic, add it to Teloca- tor’s list at $5 for 3 months on the system. Q Vidbits_ Son of 'Winky Dink' screen so you can give Going, going. Gone— Shakespeare’s Antony and It was another boring night annoying celebrities their Gone with the Wind may be Cleopatra, opposite Lynn due. the world’s favorite movie, Redgrave and John Carra- in LaSalle, Illinois and musi¬ but the video version had a dine. cian Jim Galletti was getting Galletti never saw The rude awakening: it ranked restless. The news was Winky Dink Show, but his second in its debut on the Bigfoot fever is the on the tube. Suddenly TeeVee Stickons strike a Top 10 charts, nudged out video rage: days after the spurred into action by “a nostalgic vein in those who of first by Star Trek III: release of In the Shadow of newswoman from Peoria,” did. Dink, for the uninitiated The Search for Spock. Star Bigfoot (“Videogram, ” June Galletti leaped from his chair, out there, was a fairly un¬ Trek—The Motion Picture 1985), World Premiere grabbed some cutouts of a popular ’60s cartoon that and Star Trek II: The Wrath Home Video announced funny mustache and glasses shamelessly hawked a ofKhan joined Spock on the The Legend of Bigfoot, a he’d prepared, and stuck “Winky Dink Kit”: a sheet of charts, the first time a trilo¬ G-rated family drama. them on the hapless weath- acetate and some coloring gy has dominated the best¬ What’s next, “Bride of Big¬ erperson. And that’s how pens. The idea was to stick sellers list. foot”? TeeVee Stickons came to be. the sheet on the tube and doo¬ dle to your heart’s content. Trek trivia—You can No F.U.N.nin'—Fan¬ Made of vinyl, TeeVee Imagine the delight at this see William “Captain Kirk” tasy Unrestricted Net¬ Stickons are an assortment of witless reminder. Shatner on network TV as work, AKA the triple-X silly appendages and fea¬ T.J. Hooker, and Leonard F.U.N. Channel (beamed tures—including beady Ted Barbra Walters’ specials “Spock” Nimoy in reruns of from the Westar 5-24 satel¬ Turner eyes, bulbous Frank and presidential press con¬ In Search Of, but what lite beginning at midnight 7 Perdue noses, buck Jimmy ferences will never be the about Nichelle Nichols, who days a week), will run 2- Carter teeth, and bushy same. (Send $3.99 plus $1 plays the sultry and exotic minute spots on Abused Brooke Shields eyebrows— s & h to TeeVee Stickons, Uhura? Catch her in the Children between its that adhere to your TV Box 43, LaSalle, Ill. 61301.) Kultur video production of “feature” films. Talk about targeting your audience.

TV Den Techniques and Technology On Timers Timers mean buttons— And if you overshot the mark few others (mostly those built lots of little buttons. They’re by a couple of minutes—well, by JVC), the shortest possi¬ by Roderick usually tiny, usually hidden in then you had to go through ble recording is five minutes Woodcock a compartment away from the the 24-hour cycle all over long—which is fine consider¬ more oft-used transport con¬ again. And as if to remind you ing that few users are time- trols. In 10 years of consumer that it was 24 hours, the shifting the sermonette. The I VCR making, lots of buyers machine kept military time. only time I’ve ever pro¬ Eight p.m. was 20:00 hours. grammed a series of one-min¬ ' have been dumbfounded or Tedious, to say the least. ute programs was to—you downright intimidated by the guessed it—test the timer. : programmable timers that Enter improvement num¬ are an integral part of these ber one. This was a clock with Multi-event timers— j time-shifting marvels. a switch on it so you could set which first appeared on the it in reverse. Overshoot by a RCA VCT-400 in 1978, as i Timers on the first VCRs couple of minutes and you well as on similar models , were nothing more than could simply back it up to the made by Matsushita which ( primitive and clumsy clocks. right time. But you still had appeared about the same ’ Why, the first Betamax didn’t a pretty hefty wait while time—add only a slight varia¬ ! even have a timer built in. It you cycled back and forth tion to this programming sce¬ was an external option which through the better part of a nario. You can assign all the sat on the rear panel or any¬ 24-hour cycle. on/ofr/day/channel info to where else you could find as many as nine different room for it and still be able to Improvement number two, events, and as far away as see what time it was. therefore, was to divide the three weeks, or even one timer information into sepa¬ year on a few new models! The earliest built-in timers rate chronological elements For added convenience in tap¬ were a VHS innovation, and give each of them their ing the same show over and showing up first on the JVC own forward and reverse but¬ over, a lot of timers give you HR-3300. It was still a fairly tons. Now you could set the one or two event numbers simple gadget. You had a cou¬ day with one button, the hour that keep the information in ple of buttons to select the with the second, the nearest memory, so you don’t have to time during which you wanted ten minutes with the third, reprogram each time you the VCR to record. But you and single minutes with the tape your favorite soap could set the clock only in the next. For added speed in opera. forward direction. If you programming, a few VCR wanted to record something manufacturers picked up on With four to eight pro¬ starting at 8 p.m. for one the idea of starting the clock gramming options, it helps to hour, you’d have to hold the out from a base time of noon, write yourself a little menu little button down while the rather than midnight, on the before you actually start to red LEDs cycled all the way valid assumption that most enter what can become an im¬ between 12 a.m. and 8 p.m. events you’d want to record posing set of timer instruc- would occur in the afternoon tions. Conflicts can easily or evening rather than the occur where one event over¬ morning. laps another. Some VCRs will warn you of this error in A few more variations advance, usually by flashing appeared. With some VCRs, an “error” light. One deck, you’ve got to tell the timer the unique (but gimmicky) when the show to be re¬ Sony SL-2410, would actually corded starts and stops. With announce the error using a others, you tell it the starting built-in digitized voice mod- time and duration. The re¬ ule. It would also announce all sults are the same, but I find it the events you programmed easier to think of events in into its memory—even chide terms of when they start and you if you failed to put a cas- stop, rather than how long sette into the deck and then they’ll last. With most VCRs tried to activate the timer. you can program in an event as short as one minute. On a

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TV Den Ditto for putting in a cassette with the year, since replaced by the VKP-900 and the top edge of the screen. For additional recording tab removed. Hi-Fi VKP-950 this year. No more aching backs and sore knees—all the information you can press the display Other, non-talking decks signal these programming is done from the remote errors in other ways, like ejecting a cas¬ control. button and have the date, time, channel sette if the recording tab is missing or flashing the timer light indignantly if you There’s the usual ten-digit keypad mode, and tape readout pop onto the forget to put a tape in at all. But many along with four buttons marked program, other VCRs simply don’t warn you of clear, display, and timer. Programming screen. If you like you can press the timer conflicts. They take the easier an event into the memory is about as way out, giving priority to the first show difficult as making a phone call or using button again and just leave the tape read¬ entered into the memory. If a later one of those automated teller machines event overlaps the first, it will only start at the bank. The VCR has a built-in mi¬ out on the screen, or turn it off recording the second (whatever’s left, croprocessor (don’t they all?) and once that is) once the first show is over. you’ve told it the correct date and time, it altogether—an important feature if you will hold that information indefinitely, Time marches on, and so does the needing revision only if you unplug the want to dub the tape onto another pursuit of the perfect programmable machine for more than an hour (or lose timer. After confirming through exten¬ power). It even knows when to allow for machine. (The readout doesn’t record on sive (and expensive) consumer research a leap year. that a lot of present and potential VCR the VCR’s own tape, but will be copied buyers were still unhappy with the rela¬ Clock setting is done from the remote tive complexity of timer programming, too. Press the Program button and the onto any copy tape if left on.) Sort of a G.E. introduced its “visual pro¬ picture (provided by the VCR’s tuner) is gramming” system. While (i.E.’s decks replaced by a highly legible menu of white small-scale video game, isn’t it? come out of the same giant Matsushita letters on a black background. The list of factories that chum out the VCRs sold by five options includes clock setting, nor¬ RCA isn’t alone with its on-screen Panasonic, Quasar, Magnavox, Canon, mal, daily, or weekly programming and program review. Press the numbered programming display. For the moment it Olympus, J.C. Penney, Curtis Mathes, button for each one and you’re into PWlco, and Sylvania, this feature is exclu¬ another menu that’s ready to lead you appears on the RCA VKT-700 Dimensia sive to a few deluxe models in the G.E. through the programming steps. The line. To program the deck, you fold down sequence for programming a normal VCR, the VKT-650, VKP-900, and a hinged LCD panel and press four simple event, for example, starts out by asking buttons marked Left, Right, Up, and for the event number (from one to eight), VKP-950, and will definitely be added to Down to set the day, week, hour, and followed by the chaimel, the “on” time, minute information for both the on and off if it’s an a.m. or p.m. show, the “off’ future models. But knowing that RCA’s times. time, a.m./p.m. again, and the date. For shows you want to record on the same machines are all built by Hitachi, it stands Other easy-to-program VCRs have day you’re programming, you won’t need emerged as well. A nifty example is to set the date since the VCR will already to reason that Hitachi has a VCR with it Sony’s SL-2710. It accepts program in¬ know what day it is. For other days (any¬ formation in a five-phase sequence where up to a year away) simply enter too. It’s the VT-89A, Hitachi’s version of (event, day, on, off, channel) with each the information as requested. When piece of information separated by a quick you’re finished push the Program button the RCA VKT-700—only styled in high- press of a Next button. What makes the again to return to the main menu. Enter 2710 easy to use, however, is the built-in other events or go back to the viewing tech black rather than the sleek silver 10-button keypad. Each button does dou¬ mode by pressing Program once again. ble duty—as either the number marked RCA prefers. The on-screen program¬ on it, or as a day of the week. The three There are variations, of course. If you remaining buttons are for next week, this want to review all the shows you’ve en¬ ming works exactly the same, though week, or everyday recording. Sony calls tered in the memory, press Program and it “conversational”—but it doesn’t talk. then select option 5 (program review). RCA prefers to provide it through a Each event will be displayed for 10 JVC took a giant step forward last year seconds or so and then move along to the larger, more easily handled wedge- when it introduced its HR-D725 VHS Hi- next one. If you’re impatient, you can Fi recorder. It has a timer that lets you press the number 5 button again to go to shaped remote control. Hitachi’s remote program not just the day, time, and the next event without waiting. Want to length of a future event, but whether you erase or change an event? Just press the is a narrower black version with smaller want to record it at the slow or fast Clear button. It’s also used to erase any speed, all on the same tape. I’d like to see mistakes you make while programming. buttons. that feature spread to other brands. Every press of the Clear button backs you up one step. Once you’ve got every¬ Akai has an Interactive Monitor Sys¬ Despite all these great timer features, thing programmed, you can even put the what do all timers have in common? You deck into the timer mode from the re¬ tem as well, presently available on its guessed it! With all of them, you’ve got to mote by pressing the Timer button. If get up from your easychair, trudge you like you can do it the old-fashioned top-of-the-line VS-603 VHS Hi-Fi deck. across the room, and genuflect before an way, by actually going up to the machine. array of tiny buttons and labels that may The idea is the same but the graphic be difficult to reach, hard to read, or In addition to providing programming both. Which brings us to the current ease, the on-screen readout graphically layout of the information is different. The state of the art in VCR timer recording. confirms other functions. Whenever you It’s called “on-screen programming” and select a VCR mode, that information— 603 displays the time, date, month, and it’s great: easily the best breakthrough in along with either the counter readout or VCR convenience features in the last few year along with the channel and you can years. RCA had it first in its VKP-900 tape-remaining readout—appear along “Convertible” portable introduced last select a four-digit or five-digit lap coun¬ 34 video ter. The VCR mode also appears as on the RCA/Hitachi machines. But the Akai has a few twists. One unique feature is a “sleep timer, ” an update of the instant- record feature found on many VCRs today. It lets you activate the recording mode immediately for preset periods of time up to four hours in length, depend¬ ing on the model. Akai’s goes one better and lets you tell the VCR the exact time you want it to turn itself off. Akai’s tracking control is also unique. With most VCRs all you can do is turn the tracking knob and watch the screen to minimize the appearance of noise. The Akai displays a horizontal line on the screen with an X superimposed on it. It moves along the line as you turn the tracking control with the center position indicating optimum adjustment. And of course you can program the VCR visual¬ ly, for as many as 8 events over 28 days. My prediction is that more on-screen programming decks are coming. Sony’s already got one in Japan (the SL-HF355) and a similar version may soon appear over here. Other companies may quickly get into the act. And why not? It’s fun, fast, convenient, and easy to do and helps break down the remaining barriers between those video holdouts afiraid of complex new technology. Q

SAMI ELW)U>WiN ’MKENTEKTAIWIKN PRESENTS THE CARE BEARS: THE MOVIE! AMERICAS \"1 FAMILY HIT ‘•Endearing... recalls vintage W^t Disney, both in substance and in the style of hand animation.” -THE V£tr YORK TIMES THE CARE BEARS, those loving, cuddlesome characters, now star in their very hrst feature-length film extravaganza! NOWAT YOUR LOCAL VIDEO STORE! For additior)al irtformation. circle NoD, 22 on Reader Se

Random Access Personal Computers, News, and Games Computer program is based on 20 choreography techniques. the high-tech toy you’ve Choreography movement phrases taken The small manual that comes probably been waiting for. from a variety of dance with the program gives you When connected to the Apple Last year, Interactive Pic¬ forms: ballet, modern, jazz, the basic outline of move¬ Macintosh, the new peripher¬ ture Systems’ no-nonsense even breakdance. A “move¬ ments possible just so you al from Koala Industries approach to computer ment phrase” refers to a can get the dancers around digitizes photographic images entertainment brought us combination of steps that the stage, but after that taken by a video camera (or Movie Maker, a program de¬ make up one cohesive move¬ Dance leaves you pretty from sources like VCRs and signed for amateur and pro¬ ment. For example, a knee much to your own devices. videodisc players) and lets fessional animators. So it bend to a kick to a 360- you print them out in black & comes as no surprise that degree turn to a jump in Dance's figures are set up white pixel fashion. The im¬ this month IPS enters yet an¬ place might make up one full as though they are being age first appears on the dis¬ other cultural domain with a movement phrase. These are watched from the second-row play, allowing you to touch it program called Dance. only four steps, and some of balcony—according to IPS up (using MacPaint) and posi¬ the movement phrases in the founder Guy Nouri, the best tion it until you’re ready to IPS likes to refer to Dance program combine up to as seat in the house. From here save and print it out. as \"a sketching tool” for many as 12 steps. Dance you choose the music and choreographers. But like gives you the freedom to re¬ lighting that simulates either MacVision is an expensive Movie Maker, Dance is hearse and perform from one stage or studio. Dance is toy—for $349 you get the in¬ geared to appeal to both the to five dancers at a time us¬ compatible on the Com¬ terface module and software. time-conscious professional ing these movements. So a modore 64, Atari, and the Add this to the cost of the artist and the easily dis- choreographer can experi¬ Apple sans music. The pro¬ Mac itself and a video camera g couraged beginner. ment with a jazzy phrase in gram is available this month and you’re talking $3000. § Though Dance was unavail- the midst of a classical ballet from Spinnaker for about Less pricey, yet in the same I able in completed form at routine, block it out with a $30. —Julia Lisella ballpark, is Computereyes, a presstime, the version I saw couple of animated computer “video acquisition system” -g was love at first sight. dancers, and see if it works. Seeing-Eye Micro for the Commodore 64 and Q The notation of dance has If you’re one of those vain Apple II series computers plagued many a dancer. Not The beginner dancer/ from Diptal Vision. For $129 even George Balanchine choreographer will appreciate people who’s wasted count¬ you basically get the same could offer much solace to IBS’s intuitive, rather than in¬ less quarters on computer package, and for another the choreographic world be¬ structional, approach to learn portraits at your local arcade $220 Digital will throw in an fore his death. His dances or tourist trap, MacVision is Ikegami video camera. To could actually die, and his manipulate the image, steps could be forgotten from however, you’ll have to add one generation to the next. on a drawing system like Dance doesn’t pretend to be Flex-Draw, Doodle!, or Koala the answer to the difficulties Pad. of notating movements. Its goals are much more Both products appear to be modest—to provide a system gadgets mostly intended for that allows choreographers to hours of mugging in front of play with ideas outside their the camera. But Koala would bodies. But at the same prefer us to believe other¬ time, the program promises wise. Some of the applica¬ to make record-keeping of tions the company suggests dance movements graphic, include adding photos to visual, and permanent. Dance memos, newsletters, provides a clean, spon¬ manuals: introducing new taneous way of working employees or products to out choreographic ideas others in the office (or even visually. Instead of calling in elsewhere via modem); or four or five dancers, or creating jazzy customized spending hours sketching greeting cards at home. Fine, movements in their various but here’s a prediction: some phases, the choreographer enterprising “visionary” is can turn on a computer, flick going to set up a Mac shop Dance into the rehearse and charge small change for mode, and begin to play. digitizing your face. Here’s how it works. The —Steve Bloom 36 Video

happens—before land warfare by 1994, IRD predicts, that will be fought entirely by figure will rise to $1.5 billion. mechanized robots.” Other problems included: The reason, according to • The limited usefulness of the report, is that “existing sentry/patrol androids until computer technology, archi¬ “high orders” of on-board in¬ tecture, and software does telligence become available at not even come close to pro¬ affordable prices. viding the capacity, speed, • The nationwide shortage of and flexibility combined with people with specific robotics light weight, small package and artificial-intelligence ex¬ size, and low power con¬ pertise. sumption that will be re¬ • The concern that a clever quired by artificial in¬ enemy may employ coun¬ telligence/robotics (AI/R) termeasures and even “turn” systems being planned. ” To¬ a military robot and make it Racing the computer if you want.) day, less than $200 million is operate against its “master.” Destruction Set You can simulate the most being spent on military AI/R; —Steve Bloom Electronic Arts!Commodore 64 complex slot-car track in the world, assembling one full of The Marriage Miami researchers have de¬ Here’s an idea. Who hasn’t hills and drops from a kit of Program veloped a program that asks wanted one of those elabo¬ parts. Then you can launch questions like, “How do you rate slot-car sets with hun¬ your on-screen vehicle, sail¬ If nothing else, computers react when you come home dreds of pieces of track, the ing it through the air by hit¬ love to make predictions happy and your partner says kind you see set up in de¬ ting the ramp just right. Set about anything, from the tru¬ something nasty?” The com¬ partment stores and hobby up head-on collision situa¬ ly serious (for example, when puter apparently does an ex¬ shops? You know, the ones tions, roll the car over on its the Great Earthquake is go¬ haustive search (four billion with the 13-year-olds zipping roof, rear-end the moron in ing to jar Los Angeles) to the possible interactions) that the tiny cars right off the front of you—all the things truly frivolous (Bud Goode’s helps interpret whether you tracks in the curves? you’ve dreamt about while guesses about which team is and your spouse will be com¬ Remember? Looked like fun, stuck in a freeway traffic jam. going to win the Super Bowl patible in 20 years or headed didn’t it? every year). Now one claims for Splitsville. We’re sure the There are two separate to prognosticate whether program is bound to cause a OK. Take all the elements windows so that you can your marriage is going to couple of marital spats. Q of a great little slot-car set. track the progress of the last. Two University of Now add jumps, ramps, var¬ ious kinds of track surfaces, other car (or land rover, or lots of vehicles with different motorcycle), and you control Rest sellers/hqr^ enpnes and handling charac¬ the vehicles by kind of sliding teristics. Oddball scenery. them around with the joy¬ 1. Print Shop. AP, C64, AT. Broderbund. X How ’bout the surface of the sticks. If you don’t want to 2. Dollars & Sense. AP, APc, IBM, MAC, TIP. Monogram. 3. Print Shop Graphics Library. AP. Broderbund. moon? Arm the vehicles. Oil build and tune up your own 4. Newsroom. AP. Springboard. cans to throw out the win¬ track layout, there are 50 dow. Land mines to drop in prefabs on the disk ranging your trail. Change the laws of from a demo track (for jerks 5. Bank Street Writer. AP, APc, IBM, C64, AT. Broderbund. 6. Managing Your Money. IBM. MECA. gravity. and sissies) to a goofy one Whoa! Change the laws of labeled KILLER, designed to 7. ClickArt EHects. MAC. T/Maker. gravity? All right. So this make your joystick hand 8. Home Aect. AP, APc, IBM, MAC, PCjr, C64, AT, EPS. Arrays/ thing is really a nifty comput¬ swell up to the size of an Cont. er game crammed onto both outfielder’s mitt. For the sides of a floppy disk. white-wine set there are 9. Music Works. MAC. Hayden Software. some faithful (or so we’re 10. Homeword. AP, IBM, C64, AT. Sierra On-Line. Racing Destruction Set is the program that lets you told) replicas of European play like a kid in the privacy Grand Prix tracks. But why Rest sellers/recreavon of your home or office with¬ defeat the purpose? Racing out fear of reprisal. (And Destruction Set is all about 1. Flight Simulator II. AP, C64, AT. Sublogic. you don’t even need a teen¬ stupid adolescent fun. 2. Microsoft Flight Simulator. IBM. Microsoft. ager. You can race against —Tim Onosko 3. Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. MAC, C64, AT, AP, Robot Wars Markets. ’’ IBM. Infocom. As long as robots are tak¬ “The U.S. military has be¬ 4. Sargon III. AP, IBM, MAC, C64. Hayden Software. 5. Lode Runner. AP, IBM, MAC, C64, AT. Broderbund. ing over our factories, they come increasingly interested 6. Zork I. AP, IBM, MAC, AT, CP/M, DEC, TIP. Infocom. might as well fight our wars in the potential for battlefield 7. Karateka. AP. Broderbund. too, right? Perhaps, but don’t robots,” says the report. 8. Wizardry. AP, IBM. Sir-Tech Software. expect to see ani-oids in the “There are some nasty 9. Ultima III. AP, IBM, C64, AT. Origin Systems. trenches until early in the tasks—including mine clear¬ 10. King's Quest. APe, IBM. Sierra On-Line. next century. This conclusion ing, robotic ammunition han¬ was reached by International dling, and sentry patrol— LEGEND: AP = Apple, APc = Apple lie. APe = Apple He. AT ‘Atari, CM - Comm.xii.re Resource Development, a re¬ which can be done by robots 64, COM = Commodore Pet/CBM, CP/M = 5>/4\" and 8'' formats, DEC-DEC Ktunbmv search firm that just issued constructed using today’s EPS = Epson QX-10, 1BM = 1BM-PC. MAC = Apple Macintosh. PCjr = IBM PCjr TIP the report, “Artificial In¬ state-of-the-art robotic tech¬ = Texas Instruments Professional, TK.S = TKS-8U. VIC = ComitKxIore Vi, ZU. telligence & Robotics in Mili¬ nology. But it will probably tary and Paramilitary be many decades—if it ever Video

New Channels Covering Cable, Pay-Per-View, STY and DBS Leave It to Cable The bane of new cable net¬ imately attained the status of programs may be available on by Tim Onosko works has always been pro¬ classics or have been lionized local independent channels as gramming. Just how do you fill by a cult. It’s not impossible well, and remember that the a channel with literally hun¬ for any TV program, past or times and days listed are cor¬ dreds of hours of anything present, to live on forever in rect as of presstime. In addi¬ reruns. tion, some of the series will that people want to see? be “rested” or replaced by There are the (relatively) The cable networks are other oldies from time to almost certain to take even time. (All times shown are easy ways. One is to take ex¬ greater advantage of the Eastern.) isting events—sports, for in¬ gigantic backlog of old shows □ Showtime. This channel stance—record them, and in the near future, and there was the first pay-TV service put them out on the network. have already been several to see the value in the old This is the ESPN approach. false starts at creating an en¬ shows, and you can bet it Or, take pictures of two or tire channel devoted to yes¬ won’t be the last. Earlier this more people talking to one terday’s TV series. Even the year Showtime announced it another on a studio set. premium pay-TV networks would program a full year of That’s the Lifetime network. are getting into the act. Pro¬ “lost” episodes of the Jackie Doing any other kind of pro¬ grammers there recognize Gleason Honeymoomrs gram is much more difficult. another benefit of the old series from the 1950s, kick¬ shows: few are available via ing it off with a one-hour spe¬ There’s an even easier way the competitive home-video cial this summer. Fifty-one to stuff a cable channel, as media, something of which other episodes (of various programmers at virtually ev¬ the pay channels are in¬ lengths) will follow at the rate ery network are rediscover¬ creasingly aware. of one per week. Originally, ing: Run some old programs only 39 Honeymooners originally produced by and/or Then there are the viewers shows—all from the 1955-56 for somebody else. This nfix themselves—the fans who season—had been in local of old movies and syndicated have become collectors. It is syndication. Showtime’s 52 series has been the formula of no longer uncommon to hear programs, along with an addi¬ almost every independent TV of almost complete collec¬ tional 23 episodes and the station since the beginning of tions of M*A*S*H or Star original 39, will go into syn¬ television. Trek episodes quietly dication after the pay-TV accumulated by isolated col¬ premier. Today, however, there is a lectors who watch the pro¬ □ WGN. Since this Chicago new motive for programming grams faithfully, again and independent has successfully old shows. Some programs again. The older programs, relied on syndicated pro¬ have never been seen by the many surfacing after a long grams for more than 30 years, latest generation of young absence and in pristine new there was no reason to think viewers. Others are extolled prints, are irresistible to this it would change when it be¬ for their values and simple vir¬ bunch. Who knows how long came a satellite-delivered su¬ tues. Still others have legit¬ an old favorite will be around? perstation in the 1970s. Cur¬ And the new economy of rently, however, most of video recording (a $5 VHS WGN’s classics lineup videocassette can record appears in the off-hours, more than a dozen half-hour either early morning or late at TV episodes without com¬ night. The Abbott and Costel¬ mercials) makes collection lo Show (produced for televi¬ building attractive. sion from 1953 to ’54; 52 epi¬ sodes) airs at 6 a.m., Monday For collectors and potential through Saturday. It’s full of collectors alike (as well as old-time vaudeville routines viewers who just want to check out some of the old shows), here’s a guide to what the major cable channels are doing with the old (pre- 1970 and mainly black & white) TV shows. Some

NO OTHER HI-FI VCR CAN GIVE YOU THIS KIND OF MENU tures. In addition to incredible hi-fi sound and remote input capability, you get the flexibility of programming directly through the machine. Four heads provide picture-perfect record, playback and special effects. A cable- ready 139-channel tuner provides 28-day/8 event programmability; a lighted tape area allows tape usage monitoring. And if there’s a power outage during the night, the VS-603 is one VCR you won’t have to reprogram in the morning. Because instead of the normal one hour back-up memory, there’s 7-day back-up power. So if you’re looking for the best in VHS hi-fi VCR’s, look ' no further. AKAI’s new VS-603 is really going to open some ears. And eyes. AKAI’s new Hi-Fi VS-603 may of 8 programs. All at one time. AKAI well make ordinary VCR program¬ So there’s no waiting for that ming seem obsolete. missed portion to reappear Hi-FiAm on the display. And no more Because now, the combination missed shows due to program¬ of convenient full-function wire¬ ming accidents. less remote programming and an interactive monitor system What’s more, the new AKAI allows you to see the full menu VS-603 comes jam-packed with plenty of other impressive fea-

New Channels Wild West (1965-69; 130 hours), Sun¬ □ WOR. Like WGN, WOR is another days at noon. The later Rawhides fea¬ successful independent which has reg¬ and features continuing characters and tured a young gangly actor named Clint ularly scheduled black & white oldies. plots completely different from the pair’s Eastwood as Rowdy Yates; Wild West Unlike WGN, WOR has always cluttered movies. William Tell (1957; 39 epi¬ was a strange but entertaining blend of too many of its precious wee hours with sodes) is a British kids’ adventure series Old West locales and the popular James the most banal of talk-show hosts, the filmed in the Swiss Alps, scheduled at Bond/Man from U.N.C.L.E. style of dubious (at best) Joe Franklin. 6:30 a.m. Saturday. plots. Also in WGN’s vaults are runs of Sea Hunt (1957-61; 155 episodes) and Still, WOR is currently programming The Lone Ranger (1952-57; 211 epi¬ the Dennis the Menace situation com¬ three scarce classics. Phil Silvers’ sodes, of which 39 are in color) appears edy (1959-63; 146 episodes), which famous You’ll Never Get Rich series on Sunday mornings at 10;30 a.m. WGN appear irregularly, usually in late-night (1955-59; 138 episodes) features him as also shows two classic (and hard-to- spots after a movie. the scheming Amy Master Sergeant find) Westerns from the 1960s. Raw- Ernest Bilko. Produced by comedy hide (1958-66; 144 hour-long episodes) pioneer Nat Hiken and including a young Sundays at 11 a.m. and The Wild Neil Simon among its writers, “Bilko” could be the best situation comedy ever /Oo)f Uniform, produced for TV. It’s on Monday through Color Perfect Lighting Friday at 11 p.m. Another ageless com¬ edy is the Bums and Allen Show (1959- Mini-Cool 58; 230 episodes), especially the strange Heat-Free “time warp” episodes. In many of those Video Light George eavesdropped on Grade, Harry Von Zell, and others in the cast on the TV Selected by in his den. Bums and Allen airs on WOR at 11 p.m. Saturday and 11:30 p.m. Mon¬ IVIASA day to Friday. • Dramatically improves camera For fans of mystery and adventure, color performance WOR offers The Saint (1963-68; 123 epi¬ sodes, 52 in color). This one, of course, • Enriches color brilliance features Roger Moore as the suave • Quartz-halogen lamp crimefighting Simon Templar, the crea¬ • Entirely portable tion of the prolific British author Leslie • 2 mounts standard Charteris. The series runs Monday through Friday at 1 a.m. equipment □ WTBS. Though WTBS is aggressively • Choice of AC/DC operation producing new high-quality programming • Built-in safety features and sports, it still relies on syndicated • Teflon coated shows to fill out its daytime schedule. • Wide range of accessories Most notable of these is the solid mys- te^ series Perry Mason (1957-66; 245 For pure...true... episodes). With excellent stories and just projection don't li{ about everyone who ever worked in COOL-LUX movies passing through the cast, it’s a rich vein to mine. 5723 AUCKLAND AVENUE M. HOLLYWOOD. CA S1 601 -2207 As for comedies, WTBS offers Leave IN CALIFORNIA: CB1 8) 761-81 81 It to Beaver (1957-63; 234 episodes), Monday through Friday, 5:05 p.m.. Get Smart G965-69; 112 episodes), Satur¬ days at 7:35 a.m., and the all-time champ of long-running sitcoms, I Love Lucy (1951-56; 179 episodes), Monday through Friday at 8:35 a.m. □ Nickelodeon. The children’s channel shouldn’t be troubled by a shortage of its only old-time series. Lassie (a whopping 485 episodes produced from 1954 to ’69). Right now, though, it is only show¬ ing the second series of the kids’ classic featuring towheaded Jon Provost as the farm boy Timmy. Still, there are 248 episodes of those alone. Nick’s schedule is dotted with the doggie tales, on Satur¬ day at 1:30 p.m., Sunday at 10:30 a.m., and Monday through Friday at 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. □ The Disney Channel. It is only appropriate that the Disney cable chan¬ nel should heavily rely on Walt Disney’s TV successes. The Mickey Mouse Club (1955-58; 290 episodes) is a great mirror to the past, but also features some su-

Key Presents Five Tales of Saints, Sinners, and Everyone in Between! FAST WALKING James Woods wheels and deals his way through a desparate world of sinners in this gritty prison drama. THE GREEN PASTURES portrays the saints and sinners of the good book, brought together by a phenomenal all-black cast... LOVE AND BULLETS brings action and adventure as Charies Bronson takes on the mob's kiiiers with Jiii ireiand at his side... SOLOMON AND SHEBA are lovers of a different sort in the Biblical tale starring Yul Brynner as the saintly wise man and Gina Lollobrigida as the sultry, sinful temptress...and THE RAZOR'S EDGE features Tyrone Power in W. Sommerset Maugham's dramatic tale of one man's worldwide odyssey for spiritual peace. Heavenly hero or devilish viiiain...Order the best entertainment on earth from your KEY VIDEO distributor before June 25th. KEY VIDEO TM 01965 KEY VIDEO A Division of CBS/FOX VIDEO 3. 25 on Reader Service

New Channels VDO-PAK PRESENTS perb adolescent serial dramas including P<mST^ FOR the Hardy Boys, Annette, and of course THE Spin and Marty. The Club airs twice each weekday at 6:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Lumped together under the World of Disney title each Sunday evening at 7 p.m. (with repeats throughout the week) are episodes of Disney’s weekly TV LONG series (1954 to 1981; more than 350 hour-long episodes) which graced all three commercial networks at one time RUN or another. The non-Disney series currently run¬ ning on the channel is Rin-Tin-Tin (1954-58; 164 episodes) at 5:30 p.m. UP TO 8*H0URS OF PORTARLE VIDEO POWER Monday through Friday. □ USA Network. The nice thing about CAPTURE THE ACTION ANYTIME - ANYPLACE! the oldies from USA Network is that you don’t see them anyplace else. Not that you’re all that interested in some of the series that have graced the channel in the past, like The Flying Nun, Gidget, and FREEDOM LONG LASTING NI-PAK Bob and Carol and Ted and Alice. Cur¬ LETS YOU ROAM FREELY SAFETY BUILT-IN CIRCUIT rently, though, USA is running the entire BREAKER SYSTEM PROTECTS YOU AND YOUR EOUIPMENT series of hour-long Alfred Hitchcock TV FROM HIGH AMPERAGE SHOCK: AUTOMATIC RESET: FLAME programs (1963-65; 93 episodes), daily RETARDANT VERSATILITY UNIVERSAL CIGARETTE installments of the first prime-time soap LIGHTER STYLE POWER CONNECTOR opera, Peyton Place (1964-69; 514 epi¬ DURABILITY HIGH IMPACT ABS PLASTIC CASE; HEAVY DUTY sodes), and Wanted, Dead or Alive WIRING AND COMPONENTS COMFORT LIGHTWEIGHT (ONLY (1958-61; 94 episodes) with the late 3'2 LBS.); COMPACT AND CONVENIENT TO USE WITH Steve McQueen. Hitch airs at 9 p.m. BELT OR SHOULDER STRAP; COMPATIBLE WITH ALL TYPES Saturdays and 6 p.m. Sundays. Peyton OF CONSUMER ELECTRONIC EOUIPMENT Place is on each weekday at 11:30 a.m. NICKEL CADMIUM POWER SOURCE, 4.8 AH and Wanted is scheduled for Sundays at ONE-YEAR WARRANTY (LIMITED) LONG-LIFE RECHARGE UP TO 1 500 9:30 p.m. TIMES! □ CBN Cable. At first it seems unusual that the Christian Broadcasting Network should be the most enthusiastic program¬ mer of old TV series on cable. But then, remember that most of these programs came fi'om another, less permissive, more patriotic time and it all makes sense. Though this is chiefly retro-pro¬ gramming, there’s lots of interesting material to sift through. Max Shulman’s Dobie Gillis (1959-63; 147 episodes) is on twice a day, Monday through Friday, at 9 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. It Designed by an expert group of video professionals who understand consumer needs. is notable not just for some great scripts and consistent performances by Duane Hickman (as Dobie) and Bob Denver (as proto-beatnik Maynard G. Krebs), but also for appearances by series regulars like Tuesday Weld and semiregulars Warren Beatty and Michael J. Pollard. Also in the sitcom genre are Bachelor Father (1957-62; 157 episodes), week¬ days at 9:30 a.m. and 2 a.m., / Married foan (1953-55; 98 episodes), weekdays at 1 a.m., snABums and Allen, week¬ days at midnight. For Western fans the CBN weekend schedule has Wagon Train (1957-64; 252 episodes, 32 of which are 90 minutes long and in color), 4:30 p.m. on Satur¬ days and 4 p.m. on Sundays; the Cisco Kid (1951-56; 126 episodes), 10 a.m. Saturdays and 7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; and Chuck Connors as The Rifleman at 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Q 42 video

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PRO I NG Vl^ Dual-VCR Pirate Threat: Myth or Legend? A dual-transport VCR is a single deck world’s first double cassette’ video practical answer here. It would allow new having two record/play systems. It can machine. As the literature calmly asserts: make two copies of incoming audio/video ‘Simply insert a prerecorded tape into deck technology to enter the marketplace and at or play back a videocassette and duplicate one and a blank tape into deck two: Then the same time partially compensate it while k is doing so. Such a VCR is re¬ press the play-rec button to record the creators and distributors for the use of portedly being sold by Sharp in a PAL/ entire tape.’ ” what they own.” Driven to desperation af¬ SECAM version in the Middle East. ter several years of failure to get Congress For some strange self-destructive either to pass a royalty sales tax on blank A version for our NTSC system also reason Valenti goes on to provide specific tape and VCRs or give Hollywood a seems to be in the works. Early this year instructions for New York Times readers stranglehold control over retailer rental, the Los Angeles Times carried a classified worldwide. “All you have to do is go to your Valenti seems to be saying he would even ad offering the “world’s first double¬ local video store, rent three movies for $2 welcome a dual VCR if it would help his headed VCR” priced at $695 from D&M each, bring them home, and call your cause for total studio control of home Electronics. The 800 phone number has friends. They arrive with their blank tapes; video. been answered by a Fort Lauderdale, Flor¬ at the end of the night, each has several ida person who says the machines were films permanently inscribed on tape. The The specter of a dual VCR is being Sanyo, not Sharp, and the first batch was prerecorded tapes are now quickly re¬ raised as a straw man. What you really already sold but to call back in a month for turned. Thus, for something like $6 in total need to look at, Mr. Valenti, is the rapidly another supply. A U.K. trade paper has rental costs and from $8 to $10 per blank increasing number of portable VCRs in carried a Tokyo story about an asserted tape, the group now owns movies costing a use, the increasing number of multi-VCR intention by Sharp to sell its dual-transport collective $50 million!” homes, and still-dropping VCR and blank- VCR in Japan, as an NTSC-standard unit, cassette prices. Over the last several and that other manufacturers may follow. There is method to Valenti’s madness. years the cost of a two-hour blank tape has Because the U.S. is also an NTSC country, After evoking his now-familiar images of all dropped dramatically. Get your video such dual VCRs could be expected to those poor folks who invest in, produce, movie purchase and rental prices down, appear here. and distribute movies on video; the rape of Valenti, and you’ll see home piracy re¬ intellectual property rights; our trade def¬ duced in favor of even more of the kind of The fear of the video program com¬ icit with Japan; and threats in general from renting and buying of professionally pro¬ panies in general, and the Hollywood com¬ the Yellow Empire, he ends with a call for duced copies that are now bringing for¬ panies in particular, is that persons with “levying a modest copyright fee on tunes to your member companies—and dual VCRs will rent and copy cassettes. In machines and blank tapes. That is the that no home VCR will ever match. As a letter to the editor of the New York Times Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) President Jack Valenti puts it squarely: “You are now in the pirat¬ ing business right in your own home, cour¬ tesy of this new device.” After reminding us that the Supreme Court’s ruling in the Betamax Case lets us copy “for pennies films that cost millions of dollars to create, ” he goes on to tell us, “The cruelest blade of all is about to be unsheathed. Sharp, the Japanese electronic giant, is marketing...a machine that is, quite simply, a brazen call to thievery. It is what Sharp calls ‘the By Ken Winslow

Paramount has aptly demonstrated, the afoot to offer prizes for sticking through an minority presents a challenge. Where will proper solution is sharper pricing and entire commercial. You will be challenged it all stop? smarter marketing. to find a hidden number, message, or clue and to phone it in—after the program is Each community has the right to deter¬ As for the claim that Sharp’s dual video is over, of course—to win a prize. (For more mine its public standards of obscenity. But the final straw—'what pray tell is so magical on the subject of ad zapping see Stan Pink- what’s public about cable distribution of a about having dual play/record capability in was’ “Goodbye, Mr. Whipple” and Rode¬ scrambled pay channel? When a minority one unit? Look in any major metro paper rick Woodcock’s “TV Den,” May 1985.) can squelch programming available only to and you’ll see more and more VCRs being voluntary subscribers, this in itself is an sold for less than $300. For the $695 sup¬ Cox Cable Calamity: obscenity against the cause of freedom of posedly charged by D&M Electronics for a Censors Win, You Lose thought and expression. The only greater dual VCR, you can buy two separate obscenity I can think of is Cox rolling over. VCRs, leaving enough money for a good Cox Cable has caved in. The 112,350 number of one-night rentals and all the good subscribers of Virginia Beach, Vir¬ The Mail of the Species blank tape your shopping bag can carry. ginia’s Cox Cable Tidewater system have Is Coming on Strong The kind of duplication-happy “program become losers in a censorship battle waged parties’’ described are already and have by local church leaders against see-no-evil Mail order is making a strong comeback. been happening since portable VCRs be¬ TV—^in this case, pay-TV cable showings Some years ago, when titles were scarce, came widely available in the late ’70s. Mea¬ of Playboy Channel movies claimed to be rental and purchase by mail were the only sures such as restrictive import prohibi¬ obscene. ways to get access to a respectable selec¬ tions, royalty taxes, and strangling retailer tion. Now mail order is returning for the rentals are not answers. They only drive Whether they were obscene is not the opposite reason: the flow of titles through the economic incentive for personal piracy point. Only 10 percent of the system’s sub¬ local stores is so great that major labels underground. Remaining competitive with scribers received the Playboy Channel. As such as Disney and MGM/UA—along vnth lower program purchase prices is the only evidence of the responsible manner in those specializing in a particular vintage way. which Cox handled the Playboy Channel, (Blackhawk, RKO), genre (Homevideo lockboxes were provided to subscribers so Exclusives, Corinth), or format (Criterion Madison Avenue adult viewers could prevent not-so-adult for LV-CAV)—want to establish their own Responds to Zapping viewers from sneaking a peak. lines of communication direct to the buyer. You can still find Disney, MGM/UA, and If TV viewing is the most popular way to What started out as political pressure at RKO titles on your retailer’s shelves. spend our time, number two has got to be a city-council meeting, with the church in¬ But companies like Homevideo Exclu¬ using a remote control to zap from channel terests lobbying to deny Cox’s application sives (which offers music and dance pro¬ to channel, according to findings from five for a rate increase unless it dropped Play¬ grams featuring Pablo Casals, Luciano different surveys made of 1500 adults and boy, ended up as formal grand-jury indict¬ Pavarotti, Andres Segovia, Jasha Heifetz, 400 children by the Michigan State Uni¬ ments for violating the state’s antiobscen¬ and Martha Graham) are selling only versity Telecommunications Department. ity law. The latter derives its power from through direct mail. It seems a whole new generation of the Supreme Court ruling that each com¬ viewers, growing up with remote-con¬ munity has a right to determine local stan¬ I can’t blame them, but they may be trolled sets, are learning to become selec¬ dards of obscenity. Cox dropped the Play¬ restricting their own sales. An executive tive in their viewing regardless of house¬ boy Channel in Virginia Beach so it could told us his company was only going to sell hold size, income, or education level. In “get on with the business of serving all The Queen’s Garden, a program on the short, everyone is doing it. MSU says chil¬ subscribers and running a system in good splendors of the Buckingham Palace Royal dren of zappers are more inclined to zap standing with the community. ” The com¬ Gardens, by matching computer mailing when they leave home than children of monwealth’s attorney’s office then lists of VCR owners and those interested in nonzappers. Reasons given for zapping in¬ dropped its indictments, evidently on the gardening. Otherwise you’ll never know. clude avoiding commercials, boredom, “promise” that Cox would not do it again. search for variety, and desire to watch Try that one the next time you’re written Catalogue-store chaos is at the heart of more than one show at a time. up for a parking ticket! the problem. The obstacles to finding and deciding on something can be overwhelm¬ Everj'one is getting the message, from Cox Cable, one of the nation’s reigning ing. Shelves are too often overloaded with TV designers and manufacturers to adver¬ multiple system operators, says it will con¬ a confusing jumble of box spines that will tisers. The latest remote controls make it tinue to carry Playboy on its systems in give you a pain in the neck as you twist your easier to zap. In addition to programmable other states. But if Virginia Beach is any head to read them. Back and front cover channel up/down scanning, you can oper¬ indication of Cox Cable’s staying power, it notes tease but seldom inform. Genre- ate the remote to return to the last channel will only do so until another outspoken marked shelf bays are no real help since watched or program it to switch be¬ one person’s drama can be another’s com¬ tween any three randomly selected chan¬ edy. Stand in line to ask the cash-register nels. The coming digital monitor/receivers checker about available programming and will offer a chance to watch two or more you’ll be waved to the latest dot-matrix channels at once. title printout, designed by a computer to be read by a computer or someone waving an Terrified advertisers are rushing to re¬ optical code wand. spond with ways to get viewers to stay with one program and to watch all its com¬ With so much video programming mercials. Have you noticed recently how available—my count is now hitting 300 ti¬ smooth the switch is from program to com¬ tles a month—no wonder many are turning mercial—which is half over before you to well-organized mail-order alternatives. realize what’s happening? Sponsors are Along with labels starting to sell direct, starting to move in the direction of building new general mail-order sources are their products right into the plot (plot appearing on the premise that even though pitches) to stop you from zapping ’em out you have a comer retailer, you will still be of your life. IBM is weaving trivia into interested in attractively presented in¬ some of its sports commercials as a way of formation about a lower number of careful holding viewers. There are even plans selections covering a variety of genres. The Scotch Video Marketplace (450

N. York Rd., Bensenville, Ill. 60106; Top 10 PROGRAMS 800-422-3900) has begun selling 130 Beta/ VMS titles in eight categories by mail at for all ages. 85 min. Beta Michael Douglas, Kathleen generally current retail prices (plus $3.50 (Hi-Fi). VHS (stereo). Turner, Danny DeVito. 106 for shipping and handling when nine or few¬ $39.95. Video Associates. min. (PG) LV. $34.98. CED er are ordered). With the only double cas¬ (closed captions). $19.98. sette priced at $49.95, all others are 1. Star Trek III: The CBS/Fox. $39.95 or lower. Scotch says it has made Search for Spock (1)’*. its selections from relatively hard-to-fmd Color. 1984. William Shat- 1. Gone with the Wind 1. Revenge of the Nerds but “proven popular” titles. A recent mail¬ ner, DeForest Kelley, (-)*. As above, “Cassette (2)*. Color. 1984. Robert ing featured Paramount’s temporary price James Doohan. Beta, VHS Sales. ” LV (stereo, CX, Carradine, Anthony Ed¬ promotion of Flashdance, Meatballs, (Hi-Fi stereo, closed cap¬ closed captions). $49.95. wards, Ted McGuiley. 89 Raiders, and others in its 25 Hits cate¬ tions). $29.95. Paramount. CED. MGMAJA. min. (R) Beta, VHS (Hi-Fi, gory while supplies last. Other categories closed captions). $79.95. offered include In Concert (Dolly Parton, 2. Gone with the Wind 2. Star Trek III: The CBS/Fox. Playboy Jazz, Diana Ross), Classics (25 (2). Color. 1939. Clark Search for Spock (-). As Kartes public-domain titles at $19.95), For Gable, Vivien Leigh, Olivia above, “Cass. Sales.” LV, 2. Bachelor Party (5). Kids (Walt Disney, Muppet Video, and a de HaviUand. 231 min. CED (stereo, closed cap¬ Color. Tom Hanks, Tawny nine-part animated Bible-story series at Beta, VHS (digitally en¬ tions). $29.95. Paramount. Kitaen, George Grizzard. $24.95), The Arts (opera and ballet in Hi-Fi hanced stereo, closed cap¬ 105 min. (R) Beta, VHS stereo). History (Thom EMI’s World at tions). $89.95. MGM/UA. 3. Red Dawn (-). Color. (Hi-Fi, closed captions). War and Embassy’s Victory at Sea—-sold 1984. John Milius, Patrick $79.95. CBS/Fox. only as complete series over a period of 3. Jane Fonda's Work¬ Swayze, C. Thomas time). New You (Thom EMI’s Raquel and out (3). Color. 1982. Jane Howell. 114 min. (PG-13) 3. Country (-). Jessica a ^oup of Kartes tape/book combinations Fonda assisted by 7 in¬ LV. $34.95. MGMAJA. Lange, Sam Shepard, Wil- to include ColorMe Beautiful andS Minute structors. 90 min. Beta, ford Brimley. 106 min. (PG) Makeovers), and Sports (golf, skiing, ten¬ VHS. $59.95. Karl. 4. Police Academy (6). Beta, VHS. $79.95. Touch- nis, and Olympics Highlights). Color. 1984. Steve Gutten- 4. Lionel Richie/All berg, Kim Cattrall, G.W. 4. The Terminator (-). These and other titles offered by mail Night Long (5). Color. BaUey. 96 min. (R) LV. Color. 1984. Arnold order may be under your nose in local 1984. Includes “All Night $34.98. CED. $29.98. Schwarzenegger, Linda stores. But a new generation of mail-order Long, ” “Running with the Hamilton, Michael Biehn. companies are out to make certain you Night, ” others. 35 min. 5. Tightrope (4). Color. 108 min. (R) Beta, VHS don’t miss them. Beta, VHS (Hi-Fi stereo). 1984. Clint Eastwood, (Hi-Fi). $79.95. Thom $14.95 (introductory). Genevieve Bujold, Alison EMI. Thar's 'Gold' in Them MusicVision. Eastwood. 115 min. (R) Thar Disney Tapes LV. $34.98. Warner. 5. Star Trek III: The 5. Private Dancer (7). Search for Spock (1). As This summer’s seven-volume Limited Color. Tina Turner’s 6. Purple Rain (3). As above, “Cassette Sales.” Gold Edition II Cartoon Classics series “What’s Love Got to Do above, “Cass. Sales.” LV $29.95. Paramount. (see “Directory”) is Disney doing what it with It, ” “Better Be Good (stereo, CX, closed cap¬ does best: offering precious material, nev¬ to Me, ” others. 17 min. tions). $29.98. CED. 6. Police Academy (6). er before available, for only a limited time Beta, VHS (Hi-Fi stereo). $19.98. Warner. As above, “Videodisc through August 31. This is a good oppor¬ $16.95. Sony. Sales. ” Beta, VHS (closed tunity to sample Disney’s prodigious car¬ 7. The Woman in Red (-). captions). $79.95. Warner. toon output from the 1930s, ’40s, and’50s. 6. Purple Rain (4). Color. Color. 1984. Gene Wilder, Certainly there are still some missing clas¬ 1984. Prince, Morris Day, Charles Grodin, Kelly Le 7. Red Dawn (3). As sics. But it’s what’s here that counts. Apollonia Kotero. 113 min. Brock. 87 min. (PG-13) LV. above, “Disc Sales. ” Beta, (R) Beta, VHS. $29.98. $34.95. CED. $29.95. Ves- VHS (Dolby Hi-Fi stereo). The success of Disney’s summer 1984 Warner. $79.95. MGMAJA. Edition I series caught the company off¬ 8. The Empire Strikes guard. For one thing, the added Walt Dis¬ 7. Jane Fonda's Prime Back (-). Color. 1980. 8. Irreconcilable Dif¬ ney interview/biography segment was Time Workout (8). Color. Mark Hamill, Harrison ferences (-). Color. 1984. duplicated on each volume. This was right¬ 1984. Less strenuous Ford, Carrie Fisher. LV, Ryan O’Neal, Shelley Long, ly considered cheap filler by those who routines. 50 min. Beta, CED (stereo). $29.98. Drew Barrymore. 112 min. bought every volume of the Edition I VHS (closed captions). CBS/Fox. (PG) Beta, VHS. Vestron. series. This time Disney offers separately $39.95. Karl. produced introductions—some with inter¬ 9. The Neverending 9. The Little Drummer views of animation, directing, and writing 8. Raquel, Total Beauty Story (2). Color. 1984. Girl (-). Color. 1984. Diane talents. and Fitness (9). Color. Barret Oliver, Noah Hath¬ Keaton, Klaus Kinski, Yor- 1984. Exercises for men away, Moses Gunn. 94 min. go Voyagis. 130 min. (R) and women of all ages. 90 (PG) LV (stereo, CX, Beta, VHS (closed cap¬ min. Beta, VHS. $39.95. closed captions). $34.98. tions). $79.95. Warner. Thom EMI. CED. $29.98. Warner. 10. The Woman in Red 9. Workout Challenge 10. Romancing the (4). As above, “Disc Sales.” (-). Color. 1984. More Stone (7). Color. 1984. Beta, VHS. $79.95. Ves¬ strenuous routines, from tron. Jane Fonda. 90 mifi. Be¬ ta, VHS. $59.95. Karl. 10. Do It Debbie's Way (-). Color. 1983. Workouts •Number in parentheses indicates position last month: (-) indicates program is new listing. Copyright 1985 by Billboard Publication Inc. Reprinted by permission.

RE WS HIM CLIPS Produced for Theaters The Cotton Club duction design, Coppola avoids the nostal¬ serves us because it looks so assured? Color. 1984. Richard Gere, Diane Lane, gia trap by overlaying his special brand of Possibly, although I’d prefer to think I’m Gregory Hines, Lonette McKee; dir. Fran¬ neon gloss. So The Cotton Club seems responding to an entertainment that— cis Coppola. 128 min. Beta, VHS. $79.95./ modern and retro at the same time; artful although fractured by postproduction eli¬ LV, CED. $39.95. Embassy. Reproduc¬ montages and rapid wipes bridge scenes sions and decisions—revives a storytelling tion: A that are often lit like One from the Heart, philosophy perfected by the Brothers War¬ and before long we realize that what’s ner in the 1930s: tell the story, make it The Cotton Club is probably the first engaging us here is style, sheer style. Not snappy, and don’t let ’em see how hard movie since Sex and the Single Girl to a single character in The Cotton Club you’re trying. At 128 minutes the movie evolve from a title and nothing else. It is makes sense in any terms except those set seems much shorter, and I can’t think of a considerably better, however—despite a down by the movie’s style—which is single scene that goes on longer than it production history marked by misspent fantastic, romantic, and like the Cotton should. millions, firings and hirings that required a Club itself in its heyday, somewhat scorecard, and wresting of ownership whitewashed. Coppola’s movie fails on the I was carried away with the silly plot, the away from the producer who thought up levels of our greatest expectations. It isn’t lightweight characters, and the musical the title in the first place, Robert Evans. a musical and it isn’t a social history. He score with its doses of Ellington and Callo¬ cuts away from production numbers too way. Richard Gere actually seems charm¬ Obsessed with the idea of turning the regularly to give us any sustained pleasure ing as a white musician mixed up with story of Harlem’s famed nightspot of the from them, and I certainly didn’t learn Dutch Schultz and other underworld habi¬ 1920s and ’30s into a rich many- much about black/white relations of the tues of the Club. Though their relationship charactered tableau/epic, Evans hired period except that in the Cotton Club the is dropped again and again at the same Mario Puzo to write a story set in the Club blacks entertained and the whites point, as if no one knows where to take and then changed his mind about directing watched. the movie himself. So he brought in Francis Coppola to do the job for him as well as to I still liked The Cotton Club', forgot it rewrite Puzo’s screenplay. Does the cast almost instantly; then watched it again and of characters have an air of deja vu? The liked it again. Is Coppola’s slick filmmaking Evans/Coppola/Puzo team would have so seductive that it doesn’t matter what he liked nothing better than a musical God¬ father, especially if it meant winning all those Oscars again. Then Hollywood might forgive Evans his Players and Popeye, and Coppola just about everything he’s done since wrapping the Corleone saga. But the problem with building a movie on a title is that there are few signposts to the finish line, and the movie that ends up get¬ ting made goes through enough changes to thwart even the most singleminded direc¬ tor let alone an extravagant experimenter like Coppola. What Coppola sacrifices in discipline, though, he more than makes up for in daring, and in daring to tame Robert Evans’ mammoth ambition he may have reduced Cotton Club to multicolored pieces of various dreams—but boy! do those dreams sparkle. Employing a period feel in filmmaking technique as well as in splendidly right pro- 48 video

them, Gregory Hines and Lonette McKee The Night They Raided Minsky's is an appear long before the lines are spoken, make fresh and convincing young lovers affectionate tribute to the fathers of Amer¬ and a generally rotten soundtrack and I liked watching their sparks. McKee’s ican show business, the vaudevillians who throughout. Minsky’s is fine and dandy. attempt to put the Cotton Club behind her worked on the Lower East Side. Its plot and make it in white show business is concerns the misadventures of an inno¬ —Harvey Elliott something I would have liked to see de¬ cent Amish girl who comes to New York to veloped further, but then that’s another work on the stage, and ends up the butt of a Heartbreakers story (maybe Lena Home’s). And I don’t practical joke perpetrated on the pesky Color. 1984. Peter Coyote, Nick Mancuso, think gangsters have been as much fun as police by a jaded entertainer who’s tired of KathrynHarrold, Carol Wayne; writ, dir., Bob Hoskins and Fred Gwynne since Some their threats and their raids. Minsky's peo¬ & prod. Bobby Roth. 98 min. Beta, VHS. Like It Hot. Hoskins is such a lively little ples its streets and theaters with a myriad $79.95. Vestron. Reproduction: A — hood that I wished I could have seen his of colorful characters. Elliott Gould and Nathan Detroit in the recent London stage Joseph Wiseman play the impatient junior This California male-bonding pic is revival of Guys and Dolls. and tolerant senior Minsky; Jason Robards generating a quiet buzz in its more or less is a fading but still charming cad of a top- simultaneous theatrical and video releases Maybe The Cotton Club is in fact closer liner, capable of selling both his girlfriend —and in New York, no less, that doughty in spirit to Guys and Dolls than to The and his vaudeville partner down the river bastion of anti West Coast chauvinism. A Godfather, with the same kind of fantasy (almost). And Norman Wisdom, a British powerful comic drama, it tells the story of Technicolored thuggery and affectionate music-hall clown, amazingly captures that two buddies—one a painter, one a half-parody. By the time Coppola’s movie very American style of burlesque with a businessman—mixing epic elements like starts wrapping up its plot strands, he sud¬ soupcon of vulnerability that weaves a spe¬ love, hate, life, death, art, money, sex, denly interrupts movie convention by cial sweetness through the entire movie. careerism, athletics, and the American bringing his cast back for a madcap curtain There is also a brief appearance by Bert hamburger. And though it does flirt with call: dancers are hoofing it on the Cotton Lahr—he died during the filming—who male narcissism and misogyny, it is so styl¬ Club stage while wild and crazy appear¬ epitomizes in gesture, facial expression, ishly and intelligently constructed that ances are put in—fleetingly and without and of course his own legend that kind of these faults are almost forgivable, and I did explanation—by Dutch Schultz in a coffin, entertainer who exists no longer except in say almost. Hoskins on his way to Sing Sing, Gwen ersatz revivals that are much too pretty and Verdon (seen briefly as Richard Gere’s too lavish to be the real thing. The real Robert Blue is a painter of women—in mother) doing an inspired tap variation, thing is tacky, with overweight chorus girls life as well as on celluloid judging from the and Gere himself boarding a train with and tired conmen—and in its own way a credit roll. His somewhat too realistic por¬ Dutch’s moll (and shuffling off to Buffalo thing of marvelous innocence. Charles traits of models in bondage outfits are mir¬ from the looks of the two-dimensional Bus¬ Strouse wrote a wonderful musical score rors of his outwardly cool/inwardly seeth¬ by Berkeley set). It’s a delirious ending to a (and if you listen closely you’ll hear a tune ing relationships with women, so it’s no movie that delivers not what it promised, Strouse recycled almost 10 years later for surprise when his live-in girlfriend of five but possibly something even better: his Broadway show Annie). years appears in a burger joint with an Remember what they used to call “a good abstractionist rival. Jolted into a premature time”? Just around the comer from Minsky’s midlife crisis, or whatever they call fear in Winter Garden Theatre is Hester Street, California, he begins a painful reevaluation Embassy’s extensive promotion of The and if Minsky’s looks like true vaudeville, of his relations in life, but not in art—he’s Cotton Club has for once been matched by Hester Street is a lithograph taken perhaps not ready for that yet, and the internal an impeccable VHS transfer in both sight 20 years earlier when Lower East Side tension this creates accounts for some and sound. Though some postproduction Jews were half Old World, half American, credible drama. dubbing was done, audio balance never and wholly in love with their new freedom. gives it away, and both music and dialogue Joan Micklin Silver’s low-budget indepen¬ Pal Eli on the other hand is a member in are superbly blended and clear. The film’s dent release recreates the vendors and good standing of the three-piece polyester fine color photography is reproduced with sweatshops and modest boarding houses set, laboring in the family firm and hanging care and precision and little grain. of these new immigrants as it focuses on out with Blue in his spare time. Aha, you Jake, a young hotshot who brings his wife say, some cheap art-versus-commerce —Harvey Elliott and child over from the old country and trip? Not quite. It’s more like Sade versus finds they don’t Americanize quickly Masoch: lovelorn Eli can’t even look at a The Night They Raided Minsky's enough for him. Carol Kane, the be¬ women without Blue vying for attention, Color. 1968. Jason Robards, Elliott Gould, draggled waiflike wife who turns out to be and the sexy artist wins over the sexy Norman Wisdom, Britt Ekland, BertLahr; businessman every time. Yet theirs is a dir. William Friedkin. 100 min. Beta, smarter than anyone—including Jake— symbiotic friendship. When Blue’s woman VHS. $59.98. Key. Reproduction: A gives a charming performance, and unfor¬ walks out, Eli gives him aid and comfort; Hester Street tunately the only one that seems authentic when Eli’s father dies. Blue’s at the funeral B&W. 1974. Carol Kane, Steven Keats, in period. Steven Keats as Jake has too with a flipper around the old shoulder. Doris Roberts; dir. Joan Micklin Silver. 89 much modem flair for his character (even if They’re practically each other’s mothers. min. Beta, VHS. $59.95. Vestron. Repro¬ Jake is anxious to assimilate), and spotty duction: C -t- self-conscious acting in the minor roles Yet people change, and whether buddy- makes Hester Street too obvious in its early hood can change with them is a question New York’s Lower East Side in the early scenes. But once Kane arrives we are car¬ writer/director Bobby Roth leaves dis- years of this century was home to a true ried back to the modest working world melting pot of immigrants, but it is the of the Jewish immigrant wife who arrives at Jewish neighborhood that lives most Ellis Island with a difficult burden and still strongly in our memories. These two somehow triumphs. Unlike her husband, evocative films—with virtually nothing tradition is important to this woman, and else in common except their Jewishness for her America doesn’t necessarily mean and locale—recreate that vibrant, awaken¬ the eradication of tradition. They split up. ing world. One is from Hollywood; the It’s a happy ending. other is a small independent film. One is in color; the other is black & white. One’s Unfortunately, Hester Street has been practically a musical; the other’s practically badly transferred, with some jarringly mis¬ a foreign film, with great sections in placed subtitles in the early scenes which Yiddish.

creetly open. When Blue starts buttering hyperactive imagination, the answer You Were Never Lovelier B&W. 1942. FredAstaire, RitaHayworth, up the right acquaintances in the art world, doesn’t matter half as much as the out¬ Adolphe Menjou, Xavier Cugat; dir. Wil¬ liam A. Seiter. 98 min. Beta, VHS. simultaneously beating Eli in a whole string rageous symbols that make up the clues. $59.95./LV. $29.95. RCAIColumbia. Re¬ production: A - of romantic contests as Eli struggles to Morbidly nightmarish images dissolve into If Fred and Ginger were the 1930s, then cope with a suddenly less-than-solid mordantly funny visualjokes with an effort¬ Fred and Rita are the 1940s. Astaire could make a hatrack look talented, but Rita business, the cracks start to show. Blue less elan that shows a director delighted Hayworth was more than a prop. A dancer before she ever thought of acting in films, can’t just screw up his own romances; he’s with the tools of his craft. When Gerard’s Hayworth was lithe, sunny, sexy—com¬ pletely different from the wisecracking re¬ got to blow down Eli’s houses of cards too, daydreams take him literally into a train- lationship Astaire had with Rogers. Capa¬ ble of graceful adagio as well as jazzy to perpetually prove he’s taller, cooler, compartment photograph, the effect is ex¬ rhythm, Hayworth’s style was looser and lankier than her predecessor’s and as a more ruthless. That none of the women hilarating. romantic prize she was well worth winning. (except his treacherous mate) stands up to Media’s VHS cassette is the English- You Were Never Lovelier takes us to South America, a favorite setting of ’40s his perversity is the movie’s only major dubbed version, which surprised me with musicals, where a family of daughters is getting impatient because the next most flaw: all beautiful women can’t be this its naturalness and clarity. The colloquial eligible isn’t interested in men. (Father is insistent that the girls get married in chro¬ gutless. translation was totally in sync with the styl¬ nological order.) That all changes after Rita—the stubborn one—starts getting But Blue (played by E.T.’s Peter ishly black tone of the film, and I think anonymous orchids and decides they’re coming from Astaire, a dancer stranded in Coyote) and Eli (Nick Mancuso) are too subtitles might have even made the whole Buenos Aires. When they finally have some time alone, they dance to Jerome charming, and Roth’s script equally so, to thing seem either silly or pretentious— Kern’s “I’m Old Fashioned” and Rita’s hooked. Who wouldn’t be? Later Fred and pass by—I’d be a poorjudge of “art” to say perhaps both. I know I didn’t care that it Rita get down to some spirited tapfjing in jitterbug style for “Shorty George, ” wWch otherwise. The VHS transfer is well-tuned was dubbed, so carried away was I with starts with a breathtaking Astaire solo and segues into a ballroom showstopper. but not spectacular, as though anything too The Fourth Man’s blasphemous and They’re so delightful, and the number’s so infectious, that when director Seiter cuts eye-catching would mock Roth’s quiet absurd sexual melodrama. Visual repro¬ to bandleader Cugat in the middle of their dance, you want to shout “idiot!” good taste. —Mark Fleischmann duction is excellent right down to the red of Astaire’s grace is breathtaking. When he Jesus’ bikini briefs. (Yes, Luis. Surrealism auditions for Menjou in his hotel office, watch how effortlessly he gets rid of a lives!) —Harvey Elliott throw rug that happens to be in his way, right in the middle of a spin. Whenever he Coast Zone dances his arms and hands float. Watch every number three times. First, watch Color. 1983. Helen Barrow, Louise Bums, Astaire’s feet. Next, watch Rita. The third time just focus on his port de bras (upper SusanFmety, KarenFink, LiseFriedman, torso) and you’ll see why his dancing is complete. Alan Good, Neil Greenberg, Catherine VHS reproduction is sharp but for a few Kerr, JudyLazaroff, Joseph Lennon, Susan momentary freeze frames that look like Quinn, Robert Remley, Robert Swinston; chor. Merce Cunningham; dir. Charles Atlas. 30 min. Beta, VHS. $64. Cunning¬ ham Dance Foundation (463 West St., N. Y.C. 10014; 212-255-3130); Reproduc¬ tion: B + Merce Cunningham knows what the camera can do for dance. As the dancers move through the Synod House of New York’s Cathedral of St. John the Divine, a closeup shot of a dancer’s face or extended arm is set against a long shot—three or The Fourth Man four dancers walking together or moving in Color. 1983. Jeroen Krabbe, Renee Souten- dijk, Thom Hoffman; dir. Paul Verhoeven. unison like a mobile sculpture. Though we 104 min. Beta, VHS. $69.95. Media. Re¬ production: A never see all 13 dancers in one shot, en¬ There were times during the unreeling trances and exits are so well-staged and of The Fourth Man when I swore I heard Luis Bunuel clapping from beyond the the dancing so full of determination that all grave. So black, so perverse, and so hilar¬ ious is this erotically charged thriller from the dancers seem to be dancing even when Holland—of all places—that Bunuel, the preeminent Catholic symbolist of world not in view. cinema, must be getting some posthumous pleasure from it. I know I had a ball. The score, “Beachcombers” by Larry The Fourth Man flaunts its dazzling, Austin, seems eerie and unsettling at first assured visual style, leaping from premoni¬ tions to fantasies to paranoid delusions but eventually seems right for Coast Zone. with a lightness of touch and utter lack of pretension that defies description. Gerard, It helps escalate the tension of the piece, a middle-aged gay Catholic poet, finds him¬ self in the clutches of a scissor-wielding the desire to see the dancers break out, hairdresser who may or may not have done' in her three husbands; meanwhile he’s hot lose their incredible control. But as in life, in pursuit of her new lover, a young Ger¬ man hunk whom Gerard confuses with there is no ultimate high point that wraps it Christ. Who will become the fourth man to die in Delilah’s web? Or is all this simply the all together: the dancers break and reas¬ result of Gerard’s hyperactive imagina¬ tion? semble constantly. Thanks to director Paul Verhoeven’s If this piece sounds too experimental, 50 video don’t fret. The experiment is more a product of Merce Cunningham’s philoso¬ phy of dance; a celebration of movement and the relationships that can take place in the space provided. Cunningham tells us that relationships are ambiguous, and that the possibilities for relationships are end¬ less. But he also tells us something else: that in the partnership between camera and dance it is possible for us to see more than a good angle. The camera can partici¬ pate. In Coast Zone Cunningham lets the camera dance. —Julia Lisella