Richard Roeper hosts Oscar series for HDNet Movies

Richard Roeper

Richard Roeper

Sun-Times film critic Richard Roeper will host a monthlong series of 40 Academy Award-winning movies on HDNet Movies, the digital cable and satellite network.

From January 29 to February 24, Roeper will introduce “And the Oscar Goes To: Presented by Richard Roeper,” a nightly lineup of some of Hollywood’s most honored films, culminating with a three-day marathon on Oscar weekend from February 24 to 26.

Coinciding with the series, HDNet Movies will be available free to all DISH subscribers from February 1 to March 1, and to all DirecTV HD subscribers from February 23 to March 1. HDNet Movies was launched in 2003 by Mark Cuban.

"I am thrilled to present this incredible lineup of so many iconic, Oscar-winning films,” Roeper said. “We will be celebrating some of the most memorable performances, some of the most beloved Best Picture winners — not to mention legendary scripts, unforgettable cinematography and other game-changing technical achievements.

“I'll be sharing personal memories and behind the scenes anecdotes about these films, as well as my critical analysis of why they made such a splash at the Oscars, and why they hold up so well today."

His segments will originate from the Gene Siskel Film Center in Chicago.

Roeper, who began as a freelance writer for the Sun-Times in 1982 and was named a full-time columnist in 1987, shifted to film critic in 2013 following the death of Roger Ebert. The two hosted the nationally syndicated movie-review show “Ebert & Roeper” from 2000 to 2008.

Since October 2015, Roeper also has been co-host of “Good Day Chicago,” the weekday morning news show on Fox-owned WFLD-Channel 32.

“Guided by the encyclopedic knowledge of acclaimed critic Richard Roeper, this comprehensive 40-film event gives viewers an opportunity to experience some of the most legendary features to win the Academy’s most prestigious honors,” Rachael Weaver, general manager of HDNet Movies, said in a statement.

For a complete list of films and times, see hdnetmovies.com.