At the Movies was an American syndicated television program devoted to reviewing newly released films. Launched under the title Siskel & Ebert & the Movies, the show presented side-by-side criticism and recommendation rather than just a single review. It became widely known for the conversational format in which two critics expressed clear verdicts and debated the merits of mainstream and independent films.

Format and features

The episode structure was straightforward and repeatable: the hosts introduced several new releases, each segment included short clips or trailers, and the critics exchanged assessments that ranged from detailed analysis to quick, audience-friendly judgments. The show favored a comparative, conversational style and often ended with a concise recommendation intended to help viewers decide what to see in theatres or on home video.

Hosts and personnel

The original hosting team paired Roger Ebert with Gene Siskel, who wrote for the Chicago Sun-Times and the Chicago Tribune respectively. After Siskel's death in 1999, several guest critics filled the role until Richard Roeper became the regular co-host alongside Ebert. The series was produced by Disney-ABC Domestic Television and distributed in first-run syndication.

Broadcast history

First aired in the mid-1980s, the program ran in syndication for more than two decades. Its accessible format and the chemistry between hosts helped it reach a broad audience beyond traditional film-buff circles. Over its run the show saw format tweaks and occasional special episodes, but its core concept — two critics discussing and recommending films — remained consistent.

Impact and legacy

  • The program popularized an engaging, debate-driven style of film criticism on television, influencing later review shows and online film coverage.
  • It brought film criticism into mainstream conversation, shaping audience expectations and box-office curiosity for certain releases.
  • The partnership of newspaper critics on national television highlighted the crossover between print journalism and broadcast media.

While many film review formats have emerged since, the straightforward dialogue between two informed critics that characterized At the Movies remains a touchstone for televised cinematic discussion. The show is often referenced in discussions of how film criticism reached mass audiences in the late 20th century.