Z Channel: A Magnificent Obsession

Launched in 1974 in Los Angeles, Z Channel was one of the United States' first pay cable stations. Z Channel's prominence was solidified in 1980 when maverick programmer Jerry Harvey took over as head of programming. Z's uniqueness was attributed to Harvey and his staff's determination, diverse taste and encyclopedic knowledge of cinema. Harvey's programming showcased a combination of classic, international, independent, and Hollywood films. Z was the network first to develop programming innovations such as 'director's cuts' and uniquely themed on air festivals, while also airing many rare and never before seen exclusives and critically acclaimed films not in the mainstream.


Directing her first feature length documentary, Xan Casssavetes' Z CHANNEL: A MAGNIFICIENT OBSESSION, explores the historic influence of Z Channel; showcases the important voice the station gave filmmakers; examines the great influence the Los Angeles-based channel had on modern cinema, independent filmmaking, and the development of cable television; and chronicles the brilliant, but troubled Jerry Harvey and the murder/suicide that ended his life.