TCM Classic Film Festival: Updates!

Over the last year little, if anything, has really felt “normal”. Events have been moved virtually (if we’re lucky), but just as often they were postponed or cancelled. In the classic film community, many have been nervously eyeing the team at Turner Classic Movies in hopes of getting updates on the 2021 TCM Classic Film Festival. Well fear not faithful readers! We know more than we did! Read on!

Those looking to partake in the events should block off their calendar between May 6th and May 9th and get ready to hunker down. Like last year, things will once again be virtual; however, with a year to plan, things are sure to feel more familiar than they did in 2020.

Like the 2020 virtual festival, TCM will once again be airing content on their cable channel. However, HBO Max subscribers rejoice! This year, programmers will also curate content for TCM’s hub on the streaming site. Like the yearly onsite festival, audiences can look forward to a number of different options, thanks to the additional space for curation. There are a number of specialized collections and series set to air; while, Danny Glover and Ali McGraw are said to be receiving tributes during the festival. Pola Changnon, the head of TCM is quoted:

We’re thrilled to expand this year’s virtual festival across two platforms– linear and streaming. Our approach gives fans even more movies, stars and unique presentations to choose from…The breadth of this festival will offer interest for every kind of classic movie fan…

In another bit of news, TCM and HBO Max will simultaneously air their opening night film of the TCM Classic Film Festival, West Side Story (beginning at 8:00pm PST) on May 6th. 2021 marks the 60th anniversary of the legendary musical and the screening will include interviews with stars Rita Moreno, George Chakiris and Russ Tamblyn.

As usual, stay tuned to Ticklish Business! We’ll get you more details on the 2021 TCM Classic Film Festival as we find them ourselves! Until then, happy viewing!