The Plethora of Movie Channels on Cable and Satellite TV

When it comes to cable and satellite TV, there really is quite a selection of movie channels. From the specific, diversified genre channels to the generic Hollywood ones, a movie channel exists to satisfy every taste. In fact, some movie channels own other, less popular ones, in the same manner that some film studios own others.

Therefore, with all of the options available it becomes difficult to decipher through the masses to choose the best ones to sign up with. Since all of them now offer high definition options, to keep up with the entire HD craze, it is hard to tell which ones may be more applicable to certain individuals.

So, without further ado, here is a breakdown of the four primary movie networks on cable and satellite TV, although a subscription to each one of them includes four or five additional channels.

HBO - As probably the most famous movie channel around, HBO is known for great movies and great programming. Some of the most watched television shows of the last five years, such as "The Sopranos" and "Sex and the City," have been HBO specific dramas. When it comes to movies, more often than not viewers will find quality programming that has either been nominated for awards, is critically acclaimed or is very well known among the indie crowd. Because of this, the channel can sometimes come off as a little pretentious. At the same time, HBO is really a movie channel that no avid television watcher can pass up.

Showtime - Although Showtime was at one point just another movie station, in the last few years it has built up its brand as well as a solid reputation, giving HBO a good run for its money. Since such hit shows as "Nurse Jackie" and "Dexter" racked up a few Golden Globes early in the year, Showtime has started to look even better. And when it comes to movie content, the channel plays a good variety of quality films as well as a few of the not so known or foreign variety. For a movie channel that tries to be more than just a movie channel, this one is definitely a great option.

Cinemax - When it comes to cheesy flicks and Hollywood blockbusters, Cinemax is where to look. With a great selection of big budget films, movie lovers will always find something to satisfy that guilty pleasure on this channel. In fact, for all of those individuals who adore bad movies, Cinemax is probably the best channel to have. Be careful, though, if you have young kids in the house, more specifically boys. After hours programming contains many soft-core porno movies, which although are laughable when viewed by adults, are something that young boys usually go out of their way to watch.

Starz - Similar to Cinemax, Starz focuses on the Hollywood industry and provides an array of good and bad movies to choose from. Normally, no old flicks are shown on the network; the station is known more for new releases within the last two years. However, the network has recently started to broadcast Warren Miller ski films as well as the occasional surf and skate movie. So, for all of those extreme sports fanatics, Starz can sometimes be one of the best channels on television.

Whether you prefer the classics or Hollywood new releases, satellite tv has a movie channel to fit any taste. Why choose only one or two? With all of the great package deals offered by direct tv, you can subscribe to all of the movie channels that you love and always have something good to watch on television.