Cable television has indeed come a long way from where it started years ago. Gone are the days when we had just a handful of channels that were aired for a limited time in the day. Now we have hundreds of channels broadcasting content 24/7 all year round so that you can watch your favorite programming regardless of the time zone you are in.
Even the programming has gone through a wonderful transformation. Long ago Hollywood movies enjoyed all the glamour. They still do, but there are several TV shows giving movies a run for their money. Die-hard fans would go on to follow these shows for a decade or more if that is needed. Some shows even enjoy a cult following.
So in short, when it comes to TV, the star power and production value are evident. Reruns of Law & Order and Seinfeld are proof of that. However, movies have still got their charm going on, and to be honest, even though I would like to watch a season or two, it is the movies that are the object of my affection since always. And I am sure there are many like me.
Now, I am sure all of us have our favorite channels to watch whatever programming we like, and sometimes we would not even browse through other channels to check out what they offer. Other times we just do not know what other channels offer and simply do not have the time and energy to discover. Especially since all of having limited time for entertainment in this fast-paced world and busy schedules.
So below is a list of premium cable TV channels that are the best for watching movies, TV shows, and much more. In fact, they are the best there is in TV programming I would say. And the good news is that you can find them with all major cable TV providers including Optimum cable. So if you ever want to subscribe to a premium channel, you will know which ones will suit your entertainment requirements the best.
Premium Channels
First off let us discuss premium channels because unlike the rest of your channel lineup you will need to choose these yourself and will pay an extra fee for each one you choose. You must be wondering why you need to pay extra for these channels when you are already paying for cable. The reason is that these channels offer ad-free programming, unlike your regular TV channels. You do not have to sit through the seemingly endless hours of commercials during that long-awaited movie or the latest episode of your favorite show. They also offer the latest movies and have bigger budgets to create original content. However, if you are subscribed to a high-end cable plan these channels may be included in the channel lineup.
Therefore, before you commit to one of the major premium channels, here is a look into what they offer.
HBO
Who has not heard about HBO? Of course, you have. They already had a massive reputation before producing The Sopranos. The television and the entertainment industry both are in awe of what they do with their resources. Producing blockbuster shows like the Watchmen and Silicon Valley is not an easy endeavor indeed. Moreover, to top this off they keep innovating how their platform runs and are now available through cable TV as well as their very own streaming service.
However, since we are discussing cable TV here so let us look at what you receive when you sign up for HBO on cable. When you choose HBO to go with your cable TV channel lineup you receive HD content, on-demand programming, HBO Latino, HBO Family, HBO Comedy, HBO Now, offline downloads through the HBO App, and much more.
STARZ
Even though STARZ is not as old as other networks in the industry but the entertainment, company has made a big name for itself. With Lionsgate as the parent company, STARZ had an immense library of movies to broadcast as an entrant and continues to do so with all of Liongate’s new releases. STARZ also offers original programming like American Gods, Ash VS Evil Dead, etc.
Once signed up to the network you are sure to receive HD content, more than one streaming option, downloads through the STARZ App, on-demand programming, and more.
SHOWTIME
Just like HBO, Showtime has been around for several years, since the 1970s to be precise. However, even though the channel had been around for so long it only gained popularity in recent years when it started producing original content and came up with shows like Dexter and Homeland. The channel also broadcasts movies, documentaries, and much more.
Available with all major cable TV providers the channel offers HD content, on-demand programming with Showtime Anytime, offline viewing with the Showtime App, and several other perks.
CINEMAX
Cinemax entered the industry as HBO’s sister channel, focusing on movie broadcasts only. They usually aired second run movies as the first runs were reserved for our giant HBO. However, now Cinemax has ventured into original content as well and has brought to us amazing shows like Jett, but they still focus mainly on movies. Features offered by Cinemax include on-demand programming, various streaming options, and HD content.
THE MOVIE CHANNEL
Widely known as only TMC, The Movie Channel usually comes included with a Showtime subscription, as the company owns it. It airs the most popular old and new movies and is famous for its adult content. Looking for a horror marathon or a late-night show? TMC is the way to go! Sit tight and enjoy the HD quality of the content through several streaming options and on-demand programming.
EPIX
The most recent addition to the premium channel scene but not the least among the list. Epix can easily give the older rivals a run for their money with its huge collection of movies and original content like The Godfather of Harlem. With features like HD content, on-demand programming, various streaming options, and Epix App for offline viewing, you have all that it takes for an optimal TV experience.
Conclusion
Now that you know about the major premium channels, you can make an informed decision when deciding to subscribe to one or more to get your fix of movies and TV shows.
