ABC and SBS have both remembered legendary film critic David Stratton.
ABC and SBS have both remembered legendary film critic David Stratton, who featured on At the Movies and The Movie Show, respectively.
ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks told TV Tonight, “What a great luminary in our industry. He epitomised all those things that I think you look for in people that are going to communicate with the public. There was a warmth, a deep expertise, an ability to take all that together and communicate that to the audience.
“That’s the sort of person that you should aspire to be as a presenter and as a deliverer of content to the audience.
“I just thought his craft and ability, his empathy that came across, his knowledge …To me, what a great example for other people to look at and follow. What a great loss that is.”
ABC also said in a statement, “The ABC is deeply saddened by the passing of revered film critic, writer and educator David Stratton, aged 85. David appeared on Australian screens for three decades alongside Margaret Pomeranz, with whom he shared one of the most iconic partnerships in Australian broadcasting.
“From 1984 until 2004, he co-hosted The Movie Show with Margaret on SBS. The pair then moved to the ABC, where they hosted At the Movies until 2014.”
SBS Managing Director, James Taylor said in a statement, “SBS is deeply saddened by the passing of David Stratton, one of Australia’s most respected and beloved film critics.
“His insightful reviews and deep passion for film have left an indelible mark on Australian culture.
“From 1986 to 2004, David co-hosted SBS’s The Movie Show alongside Margaret Pomeranz, introducing generations of viewers to cinema from Australia and around the world. His legacy endures in every thoughtful review and every inspired viewer.”
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to David’s family and loved ones, and honour his extraordinary contribution to the art of cinema.”
ABC iview has added David Stratton’s Stories of Australian Cinema back to its home page while SBS on Demand has also added The Movie Show to its home page.
His family has asked for privacy but invited everyone to celebrate his remarkable life and legacy by watching his favourite movie of all time, Singing in the Rain.