Radio 4 confirms The Film Programme is coming to an end, and has announced what’s going to be replacing it.
There’s been some consternation over the past few weeks about Radio 4 ending its long-running The Film Programme. But as it turns out, it’s because it has something else lined up as part of an increased amount of airtime it’s giving to the arts.
The BBC has thus announced three new regular programmes. For music fans there’s Add To Playlist, hosted by Cerys Matthews and Jeffrey Boakye. For the art scene, there’s This Cultural Life, that’s going to be presented by John Wilson.
And for us film fans? In comes a new show called Screenshot, to be hosted by Ellen E Jones and Mark Kermode.
As per the official announcement, “Screenshot will take Radio 4 listeners on an eclectic journey through the universe of the moving image, exploring the best of cinema and screen culture, wherever they encounter it.”. It won’t be a show about current releases, instead choosing to explore the history of film, with the help of special guests. “Screenshot will help guide Radio 4 listeners to some of the best films and shows available, and to dig out hidden treasures, old and new”, goes the announcement.
This doesn’t affect Kermode & Mayo’s Film Review on Radio Five Live, incidentally.
Two of the new shows are earmarked for Friday nights at 7.15pm, and are taking it turns to take the slot. Add To Playlist runs from October to November, Screenshot is on in December and January, and then they will alternate beyond that. This Cultural Life is set for Saturday evenings.
One more thing: Radio 4’s Front Row is also moving up from 30 minutes to 45, and will include further film coverage. That’ll run on Monday to Thursday, presented by Samira Ahmed and Tom Sutcliffe.
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