Videodrome

If you want science fiction that respects its own premise, Videodrome is available on Hollywood Suite right now. The runtime earns every minute, with nothing here that feels like padding. With 2,496 viewer ratings on TMDB, this is not a title flying under the radar. James Woods's performance is the anchor the more ambitious scenes need. Put it on tonight on Hollywood Suite and see for yourself.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, Videodrome is worth clearing space for. Videodrome treats its concept seriously enough to follow it all the way through. As the president of a trashy TV channel, Max Renn is desperate for new programming to attract viewers. When he happens upon "Videodrome," a TV show dedicated to gratuitous torture and punishment, Max sees a potential hit and broadcasts the show on his channel. However, after his girlfriend auditions for the show and never returns, Max investigates the truth behind Videodrome and discovers that the graphic violence may not be as fake as he thought. James Woods and Debbie Harry lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 1983. The rules of Videodrome's world are consistent enough that the big swings never feel like cheating. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

For late-night viewing or a proper weekend binge, Videodrome fits the bill. It stands on its own even without an obvious comparison point. The complete film is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. James Woods grounds the bigger ideas in something human. Once you are in, you will want to talk about it.