Highlights from the Television Critics Association Press Tour

Ever heard of the Television Critics Association Press Tour (TCA)? Chances are you haven’t unless you work in the television industry. TCA is a bi-annual event held in Los Angeles that gives television critics and other journalists a chance to preview upcoming programs from major broadcast and cable networks. 

Independent Lens recently announced its 2009-2010 season and showcased two upcoming documentaries at a session held on Saturday afternoon. Critics from top media outlets around the world packed the room to check out video clips and ask questions from the filmmakers and film participants. Here is a behind-the-scenes recap of some of the highlights: Dennis Palmieri, ITVS director of communications, opened the first session with the presentation of COPYRIGHT CRIMINALS, which examines the creative and commercial value of music sampling through the rise of hip-hop as well as the ongoing debates about artistic expression, copyright law and (of course) money. 

The panelists included Director Benjamin Franzen, Executive Producer Kembrew McLeod, PBS Media Shift Editor Mark Glaser and Ian Edgar, member of Eclectic Method, a video mashup group. Edgar gave a live presentation of a video mashup and critics were eager to ask about the creative process, issues involving music licensing for documentary and whether artists had remorse when sampling others’ work. Check out the extended preview of YOUNG@HEART below:

In the second session, Independent Lens featured YOUNG@HEART, which looks at the inspiring members of the Young@Heart Chorus, a group of New England seniors who cover everyone from The Clash to Coldplay. Young@Heart Chorus Director Bob Cilman was joined on stage by chorus members Jack Schnepp, Dora B. Morrow, and Liria Petrides who captivated critics with their wit and charm as they shared stories about joining the group, tour schedules and the strong friendships they’ve made. One journalist in the room announced that she was, “really happy to see that Independent Lens had picked up this film, because its something that everybody needs to see.” We agree! COPYRIGHT CRIMINALS and YOUNG@HEART will both air on Independent Lens in January. 

Visit the Independent Lens's Web site for broadcast information and to learn >>