Are you a TV person or a movie person?

Keith Tue, May 20, 2008 at 12:43 AM EST

Neither. I'm NOT a TV person. I'm NOT a movie person. I hate TV series/shows. I hate movies.

I don't own any physical media(dvds, vhs, blu-ray, cds, laserdisc etc.) and I don't want any.

I'm a internet person.

Nya Mon, Mar 17, 2008 at 10:32 AM EST

I'm a TV person all the way. It all start with Buffy, even so many years after it's curtain call it's the only show were I can re-watch the episodes a million times and still love every second. Movies are great but you don't spend years of your life growing and loving those characters, unless you’re a Potter buff. I can live without another Bourne flick but I would pull my hair out if I didn't have my Dexter, Breaking Bad, Nip/ Tuck, Friday Night Lights, and Galactic.

Nance Fri, Mar 14, 2008 at 02:12 PM EST

Got to be TV! As much as I love Buffy and all of Joss' creations, I need to bring up a completely different genre here. Compare magnificent TV shows like "The Wire" and "Homicide" to any cop movie or mystery. When are the movies ever more than plot and imagery, no matter how fascinating? On television, even cop shows can be character-driven, especially in "The Wire," where even the city of Baltimore is a character.

LMK Wed, Mar 5, 2008 at 07:07 PM EST

im one of those people who goes through phases of obsession with various television shows. About a year ago i saw serenity. That led to firefly, an amazing example of television at its best. After i while i decide to give buffy a chance because, after all, it was joss whedon. I feel 100% crazy in love with that show. Then i watched angel which is a close second to the previosly mentioned shows (which are tied for first) and still 10000 times better than anything you will see on tv today. These shows affected me so much that when i finished them, I cried..... and cried... and then cried some more. Re watching them is just as good as seeing them for the first time. People schoff at the shows mention because, lets face it, the name Buffy the Vampire Slayer is a little rediculous, but it gets to you in a very real and deep way.

vysxoce ozbelp Fri, Feb 22, 2008 at 02:07 AM EST

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Chris Wed, Feb 20, 2008 at 09:50 PM EST

For years I was a movie person until I came across Buffy, which is when I began turing into a tv person. There was something about that drew me toward the characters, and after awhile they weren't characters in a tv show but real-life people who I got to hang out with for a week. Since then, other shows have given me similar, albeit not a powerful, experiences. The O.C., Angel, Veronica Mars, Lost, Dexter, Big Love, Grey's Anatomy, and some new shows as well have all given me something movies never can. Investing in the characters for more than two hours makes the entire viewing experience more satisfying for me.

Cory Wed, Feb 20, 2008 at 09:43 PM EST

I like both movies and tv, but I prefer the latter for the same reason. I, too, am a Buffy fan, and there was nothing more satisfying than watching the finale investing in the characters for the previous 144 episodes. I think tv allows people to get to know the characters in a way that movies don't even come close to.

HMV Wed, Feb 20, 2008 at 03:18 PM EST

for me, it is neither. It has been a while i have watched TV. i am more addicted to the internet and music stuff.

Tue, Feb 19, 2008 at 09:42 AM EST

I love movies, but most of the great stories are happening on TV...I would say probably since the mid-to-late 90s

Carli Sat, Feb 16, 2008 at 03:20 PM EST

I love both, but if forced to choose I'd have to go with TV. I definitely get more invested with the characters and their stories...as long as it's told right.

Karen Sat, Feb 16, 2008 at 10:50 AM EST

I didn't realize I had to choose. My DVR is stocked with TV episodes and TCM films. My Netflix queue is crammed to the hilt (did you know you can't have more than 500 titles in your queue?) with TV seasons and classic and contemporary films, both domestic and foreign.

Since when does it have to be either/or?

Silv Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 11:23 PM EST

I'm a TV person. The characters on tv shows get to develop more than they do in a one-shot movie.

Derek Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 08:24 PM EST

TV - you form a relationship with the characters and genuinely care what happens.

jaime Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 05:10 PM EST

I would have to say TV, i just love investing time in charecters and getting to love them or hate them and also if its a long lasting series its nice to see how much they have grown both in real life and on the show!!! And now that i have DVR i can watch them over and over again and when ever i want too!!!

Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 04:32 PM EST

Though questions. I LOVE movies. I can probably recite all of Princess Bride beginning to end. I watch movies from every era, every country. There are some movies that will stay with me forever. But the level of OBSESSION I have experiences for certain shows - Buffy, Angel, X-Files, Veronica Mars, Lost, Battlestar...that's been unmatched. The amount of time I spent watching, researching, discussing, and thinking about these shows definitely makes me more of a TV person. So great to see all the Buffy love! Yay!

Jennifer Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 04:19 PM EST

TV Person Here. BUFFY!!! LOVE THAT SHOW!!!

Matthew Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 03:47 PM EST

I get the warm fuzzies seeing all the Buffy love. You add Lost, Smallville, X-Files, Veronica Mars, and 24... you begin to see cultural phenomenons rather than simple touchstones.

But one thing a previous poster pointed out... the excellence that is The Wire.

There will never be a movie as profound, intelligent, realistic, and emotionally shattering at what they have accomplished with that show.

Ellipsian Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 03:35 PM EST

It's amazing how a li'l pic of that teenage vamp duster can bring out the Whedonites (me included)! I've of course loved both movies and television my whole 32 years, but I truly do feel that something changed when "Buffy" became my favorite-ever visual-medium creation and Joss my favorite writer/creator/genius. TV changed forever as a result, and the list of movies in my Netflix queue grows longer and longer each year 'cause I am a TV guy through and through.
When things are going right, nothing compares to my Buffy, Angel, and Serenity, nor my Veronica, my Pam & Jim, my Admiral Adama, my Dillon Panthers, my Bluth Family, my Sidney Bristow and my Flight 815 castaways.

Maddi Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 03:32 PM EST

Definitely TV, because I like being able to get to know characters and really invest in their lives. Movies you only get to know them for two hours, even really good movies, it doesn't seem like enough. Of course, I love movies as well, but televison you get attached emotionally.

nathan Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 02:35 PM EST

Movie person. I HATE commercials, but more importantly, I hate all those freakin' CSI shows.

Dan Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 02:27 PM EST

It's easier to get invested in TV than an in a movie...If a promising movie turns south midway through, you right it off as a bad movie. But you get so invested in a show that it hurts that much more if it doesn't go your way. I LOVED both Buffy and Angel, but they took huge plunges down in later years (for Buffy I think the turning point was Angel leaving, on Angel it was what they did to Cordy's character in Season 4. Same on the X-Files for that matter...it just dropped so much in quality in the end). Regardless, those sorts of mistakes stay with you, and bother you longer, than for a bad movie for which there is less investment.

shara says Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 02:08 PM EST

It is SO AWESOME to read all the comments from folks about how Buffy impacted their lives. It was the same for me, and folks who have NOT seen the show always roll their eyes when I mention it. It totally moved me toward becoming a TV person, and the stories were just awesome. And led me to so many other shows that I probably never would have watched. Go Joss Whedon!

Bob Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 01:50 PM EST

I always used to be a movie person, and I've recently discovered tv. That's not to say that I've abandoned my movies. I just see less sunlight. Oddly, I don't like episodic tv.

Lori Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 01:04 PM EST

I totally agree about the joy of knowing a character so well and having something (sometimes the tiniest thing) show up and resonate with something several seasons before (and not just a character coming back from the dead). Buffy really had that going for it.

And....(going for my toaster oven here)...recently converted someone into a huge Buffy and Angel fan. He resisted watching the shows like crazy. Finally talked him into at least TRYING season 1 of Buffy and he PLOWED through all seven seasons in about a month, and then got into Angel. He was all about the movies before but I just may have succeeded in turning him to the warm glow of tv.... I love tv on DVD!

pede Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 12:52 PM EST

You know you're a tv person when you actually own the dvds of a series, and still record the same reruns (Buffy, of course) on your dvr. Season 7 just ended on FX and it felt like the show was ending all over again. And even though I know Spike would live on in Angel, I always cry. There are very few movies I can watch over & over again, but given the chance to watch Buffy, Lost, Dexter, FNL again & again and I'm there.

Allison Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 12:40 PM EST

I'm definitely a TV person. For a long time I felt sheepish about admitting that, but I stopped caring once I realized that the more creative and daring stories were being played out on weekly series. Movies have become too expensive and too risky for producers to invest in a project that won't break even. TV is also more expensive than it used to be, but the financial risk is much lower.
Also, it's so much fun following characters through many seasons. Buffy is a great example of a show that featured a lot of creativity and strong, resonante characters that were always great to spend evenings with. I have yet to love a movie character as much.

TV RULES.

MJS Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 12:37 PM EST

I used to be both, but TV had definitely taking over for me. It's not just about the shows themselves, but the idea of having something to look forward to each week. When you see a 2 hour movie, that's it unless you're talking multiple sequels or rewatching the same film on DVD over and over. With tv characters, you can fall in love and look forward to seeing them in muti storylines for hopefully years to come. There's nothing better than getting pulled into a new show right from the beginning (Buffy, Angel, Gilmore Girls, Bones, Pushing Daisies, Reaper, Burn Notice, Supernatural, Lost, Eli Stone) and the thrill in knowing that you that you may enjoy watching these characters for years.

YAYYYY commercials!! Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 12:35 PM EST

Someone mentioned not being a tv person because she hated the commercial breaks. I love watching movies on TV BECAUSE of the breaks! I can go pee, get a snack, whatever. And knowing that millions of other people are doing the same thing at the same time gives me the warm fuzzies. Cool!

MKS Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 12:24 PM EST

I'm working on a film studies minor, but I do make time for the shows I enjoy immensely - How I Met Your Mother, Bones, Pushing Daisies, Ugly Betty, LOST, and Grey's Anatomy. In fact, I've spent more time with TV than I have at the movies theaters (As a poor college student, TV is cheaper). Despite my love for Oscars and film history, I would have to say that I'm currently more of a TV person.

KateDFW Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 11:57 AM EST

I am definitely a TV person. I spent way too much money on a flat screen HDTV so I am going to use it! Why pay over $10 a ticket, concession stand prices and hear idiots who talk on their cell phones all through the movie. I can pause, take a potty break and not miss a minute at home. I think I have been to 3 movies in the past 5 years at the theater. Plus all the movies come out on DVD within a couple of months after their release. Plus with the TV shows you can really develop characters you care about vs a 2 hour movie. But I am old and cranky so that is just my opinion!

Anne Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 11:55 AM EST

It's so great to see all the Buffy/Angel love on this site...I think the two shows are a perfect example of what can be achieved on TV...amazing characters being developed over years and years, experiencing joy, sadness, death, love, etc. Those two shows are the perfect example of the emotional resonance TV can have...the characters became people we knew, and we cared about their every step, problem, sorrow. I love the way on TV, characters can change slowly and organically...look at someone like Wesley or Cordy on Buffy/Angel...they become different characters at the end, and yet they are the same people and their archs make sense. That's why I love TV. That being said, I am a huge film buff, and love movies tremendously. I guess my relationship with film is a bit more intellectual. I spend so much more time with TV that the relationships I develop with the shows I watch are more emotional.

Movielover Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 11:53 AM EST

Used to be a TVaholic back in the day when Happy Days and Mork and Mindy ruled. Now the only time I watch the tube is to watch movies. I hate reality tv (except AI, guilty as charged). From the little I've glimpsed of 'series' TV, it looks impressive but I refuse to watch because I don't want to revert back to my old ways, you know, making excuses not to hang out with your friends or finishing that important project that needs doing because you will NOT miss your fav weekly installment of whatever. Nope. Not going there again.
Less TV.... more of the real life stuff. It works for me.

Chrissie Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 11:10 AM EST

Film for me. Some have mentioned length as a factor for TV but isn't that a failing as well.
Can you committ to several shows, watch every single episode. with movies, you watch a 2 hour movie and that's it, but with a TV show, you need to watch every single episode to know the characters and situations which quickly becomes tiring.

Cece Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 10:56 AM EST

I think I began as a movie buff and morphed into a TV fanatic. As I've grown older(the ripe old age of 27), my attention span has decreased. I don't like spending exhorbitant amounts of money on going to the movies, even though I love being in the cineplex. So, I'll turn off all the lights and watch a movie ONDemand. But even then, sometimes I feel like changing the channel 15 minutes in. I rarely sit through an entire movie any more. I need a break from what's going on. I've even found myself watching a movie and pointing out the scenes that could have been cut to make the movie flow more easily -- like a TV show. Give me an hour of quality TV (like Buffy or Pushing Daisies or The Wire) and I'm good.

Miranda Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 10:33 AM EST

I am both a movie person and a TV person. Still I must admit that I love Buffy more than any other TV show or movie. I've seen every episode at least twice with early episodes getting near double digits. I recently finished watching the show with my mom (I'd tried to get her to watch it for years) and I was reminded of how much I just love the show. I love other shows (Angel, Firefly, Dead Like Me, Wonderfalls, Pushing Daisies, Veronica Mars, Doctor Who, and others). I love how the writers create massive stories that go back to past events or foreshadow the future. I love the depth of character. The depth allows for emotional attachment which just makes the exit of characters, the heartbreaking behavior of characaters all the more devastating. But as much as I love TV, I also love movies, the economy of storytelling, the scope. The dozen or so times that I've watched Amadeus are just as much a part of me as the 6 or 7 times that I've seen "Hush".

michelle Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 10:32 AM EST

I think the reason I'm NOT a tv person is because tv today is being ruined by commercial breaks. Just when you get into the storyline, they break for commercials again. The stories always seem disjointed because they are being broken up all the time, and then when you're just getting into it, time is up (half hour or hour, doesn't matter.) I love the movies (rented or at the cinema) because they give you all that time to get into the story and experience all the emotions without any interruption.

Courtney Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 10:28 AM EST

For me I think it's the connections you build with characters as you tune into them week after week. Much stronger connection then watching a 2 hour movie - TV you develop A LOT of passion (love or hatred) towards characters

Annie Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 10:10 AM EST

I used to be a movie person. But at $11.50 a ticket in Manhattan (and climbing!) coupled with painfully obnoxious audiences, I'd much rather be sitting at home in pajamas with Sawyer and Jim Halpert. I'm 100% a tv person.

BLM Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 10:04 AM EST

I'm definitely a TV person. TV appeals to me more because it's a longer commitment, but it has a shorter investment time at one shot (30 minutes to 1 hour is as long as I want to sit and watch continuously). I also enjoy getting to know the characters and watching them grow throughout the years. I also seem to never grow tired of watching reruns of my favorite shows, but I'm bored to tears watching a favorite movie more than a few times. My husband, however, is a movie person and perfers watching his favorite movies over and over and over and over again. I can only handle Superman Returns or Shawshank Redemption so many time before I need to leave the room!

JC Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 09:57 AM EST

I used to have this debate with my husband. I was a movie fan, and he was a TV fan. However, I think the advent of TV-on-DVD and the resurgence of serial dramas (e.g., Lost) has stolen me away from the movies. How can a character and plot that only has two hours to develop possibly compare with those that I can see develop and change over 20+ hours? There's so much more possibility with TV.

Both TV and movies have their crap and their highlights, but I can count on one hand the number of times I've seen a full-length movie in the past six months. To contrast, I've gotten through the seventh season of Buffy, all of Freaks & Geeks, all of Rome, and a host of others that were actually on TV at the time.

jes Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 09:05 AM EST

Warms my heart on this cold morning to see a pic of Buffy. I completely, absolutely LOVE that show!!

orville Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 08:09 AM EST

I love both for different reasons. Movies are cultural touchstones that affect you in profound ways. There are movies that make me happy, devastate me, touch me, and make me think of things in a different way. TV can do the same thing, but it's more of a relationship, an investment. Movies are succinct--a first date. TV is ongoing--the whole complicated relationship (for good and bad) after that first kiss at the door. A novel you pick up again to find it has a new chapter. For as much as I love movies, most of my DVD rentals lately have been TV. I'm filling in the missing pieces of past relationships with shows that had to be shoved to the side for whatever reason. Another reason I'm more of a TV person is that I hate to go to the theater. Too many people treat it like it *is* their living room and they're watching the DVD. Besides, except for big event and explosion movies, the DVD is better--you can rewind to find out "What did he say?" & discover more in the extras.

J. Warner Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 06:13 AM EST

I can't believe the consensus overall on here is TV is better than film. They are exactly the same medium with only the differences being in how long you get to spend with characters and budget constraints etc.

To each his/her own, quite obviously.

J. Warner Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 06:08 AM EST

My love and passion is equal for both film and TV. Both have their equal share of potential strengths and weaknesses and both have the exact same amount of merit when it comes to the art form that is visual storytelling.

In short movies/television rock. Hard.

Laura Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 05:16 AM EST

I have never posted before, but it is amazing to me how many people feel the same way I do about Buffy. I always get eyerolls and scoffs whenever I talk about how much this show means to me, and all of these comments show that I'm not stupid or crazy! I just know good tv. Oh, and if you can't tell tv all the way.

Wes Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 04:28 AM EST

Usually it's movies, but TV, when done right, can be better than film. Nothing in the history of film has affected me more than Six Feet Under has emotionally.

Jakeem Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 03:27 AM EST

I am both because I prefer to watch movies at home on DVD.

Nix Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 02:29 AM EST

It's the same as novels vs. short stories; short stories can, and probably need to, use incredible effects, should have stunning, hit-you-where-it-hurts insight, because that's all there is. A novel stretches out, and there should be less emphasis on special (literary) effects than simply following characters in situations over a period of time. A good TV show is a good novel. A good movie is a brilliant short story. Bad stuff is bad all around. :)

That said, I prefer series with planned endings, not the ones that go on and on and on and on just because they're rating well. A nice pre-planned three- or five-season arc, that's my sweet spot.

Maya Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 01:27 AM EST

I always looked down on tv until I got into Buffy. It was then I realized - tv could be incredible. The time limits demand good, tight writing. And I like the way ads break a story up into acts, like a play (though I hate the ads themselves!). Still, truly good shows are rare - oh how I miss Buffy, Angel, Firefly, and Veronica Mars. Can't wait for Battlestar Galactica to come back on.

Caillan Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 01:13 AM EST

I, like so many other people, owe it all to Buffy. I was a movie person, and had been for as long as I could remember, I was at the age when you start delving into the classics. I wanted to be the guy who knew about Buffy.

Then I decided to check out Buffy. I caught a rerun of Hush and I loved it. I bought the box set and it turned me into a TV person. It's almost like nothing in my life has had as much affect on who I am than Buffy. That show changed me.

And yes, now I am a TV person probably. Although I do love movies and consider myself to be a movie lover more than most, I'd probably choose TV. Buffy led to of course, Firefly, Angel, Veronica Mars, The X-Files, Battlestar Galactica, Freaks and Geeks and the list goes on.

I can honestly say I would never have found an idol in Joss and I would never have seen any of these shows if it weren't for Buffy. That show was amazing. I think it was the way the story opened slowly in TV. And the characters always remained true to themselves

Liz Fri, Feb 15, 2008 at 12:09 AM EST

TV for sure! The characters last longer and seeing them develop over time if incredible.

The West Wing and Veronica Mars are two shows I cannot get enough of. I have seen every West Wing episode at least 6 times. And I just watched the series of Veronica Mars and am now watching them again. I cannot get enough of Veronica and Logans tension. Oh CW why did you have to cancel this show :(

Rob Grizzly Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 11:20 PM EST

Movie person. I like finality to stories. But TV is becoming more like movies and movies are becoming more episodic. Still, I like widescreens, big budgets, no commercials, and the depth of picture a film camera gives, that video production just can't provide. (Don't get me started on HD)

Katya Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 09:57 PM EST

TV - I do think it has to do with the freedom of television. I think tv can emcompass various things that movies can't. A single tv series can have drama, comedy, musical elements, crazy dream sequences, major changes in characters, and it all works - if done correctly (let's use Scrubs as the example).
I love movies too. But if you said you can have unlimited Movie rentals or unlimited television, I would definitely go with television.

soulman Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 09:52 PM EST

BUFFY!!! I love Buffy so much. Good example.

Will Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 09:44 PM EST

TV, without a doubt. You hit the nail on the head with the Buffy example. I grew up with that show and it had a stunning and profound impact on me. And not just because it saved my life, though it did. It kept me going week to week sometimes when I had nothing else. Living with a character, one that doesn't judge but that is pure and honest, is something mighty powerful. I know of no experience like it.

Mike Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 09:00 PM EST

TV, especially for the past few years. Veronica Mars, Friday Night Lights, Buffy, The Wire, Third Watch, Lost. It all started with me getting into X-Files and Buffy reruns on FX. I discovered Twin Peaks on VHS when I was like 14, and kind of did a TV-on-DVD marathon before DVDs even existed. Like others have said, it's all about the characters and longer story arcs.

JMB Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 08:52 PM EST

Televison - I agree without question on Buffy the Vampire Slayer being worth every minutes I spent watching it along with winners like the Office and West Wing. Although I must admit to an occasional fling with something beyond good like Brokeback Mountain or Juno. Television unfolds slowly and isn't that the best way?

Ben Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 08:27 PM EST

Television. Love the populism of it, the "Let's put on a show!" vibe, and how it allows characters to develop over time.

Rose Tyler Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 08:08 PM EST

Oh TV of course. I mean I love them both but I like the character arcs you get with TV. You become more involved and you see them evolve. Also you usually get a real solid ending. I like knowing how my pop culture friends will be living once they've left me. Now I dig a good indie flick as much as the next girl but sometimes their often open endings drive me mad. I need to know if everyone will be ok or not. Otherwise, I get a bit stressed.

Em Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 08:06 PM EST

Movies. Why? The classics, of course. I mean, I like tv and all, but I'd rather watch Sunset Boulevard for the umpteenth time than tune into 3/4 of the tv shows out there. Besides, the best shows are always cancelled. I like new movies too, but I NEVER go to the movie theater- worst experience ever.

Rebekah Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 08:04 PM EST

Definitely a TV person. I think it's because it's there everyday. The shows you watch can last for years. I get attached to the characters. I love movies, but they're over in 2 hours.

Em Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 08:00 PM EST

Movies. Why? The classics, of course. I mean, I like tv and all, but I'd rather watch Sunset Boulevard for the umpteenth time than tune into 3/4 of the tv shows out there. Besides, the best shows are always cancelled. I like new movies too, but I NEVER go to the movie theater- worst experience ever.

Kerry Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 07:29 PM EST

Here's the thing about TV: There's so much of it that you can always feel like you have one show that belongs to you, and one that makes you cool. With movies, people (critics and snobs) are always gushing about how a film is brilliant and you can be all "I totally hated that" or "I really didn't understand the point".

Sure there's always going to be those people who love the obscure british television. But for the rest of us? TV just plain rocks. How many times have you had a watercooler discussion about what a movie character said vs the lives of your favourite TV characters? Exactly. TV wins all around!

Ambriel Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 06:59 PM EST

I'll take Battle Star Gallactica or LOST or even Rock of Love over some Kevin Costner Ashton Kutcher vehicle about the Coast Guard!

Andrew Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 05:47 PM EST

I was almost entirely a movie person. Then came Buffy. Nothing's come close to replicating that for me but it alone tips the scales.
As another little example of the great, consistent story-telling from that show, there's a tiny moment in 5-04 "Out of My Mind," when Willow and Tara are looking at night through the ruins of the High School for Captain Cardboard. After dismissing the idea of flashlights, Willow casts a quick spell to create some light, and there is just the slightest hint of concern on Tara's face over Willow's power and recklessness. And that was just months into their relationship and a year before everything hit the fan.
And there's tons more examples like that which did so much to make Buffy so rich and rewarding even after repeated viewings.
What kind of world do we live in that Joss isn't just given a huge sack of money so he can create more stories for us?

melanie Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 05:43 PM EST

Like others here, I blame it on Buffy. I always liked movies AND tv, but when I discovered Buffy on DVD a few years ago, it was a turning point for me. Now I rarely see or rent movies, but I'm a TV fanatic and stay on top of all things tv. Of course, there's all the information available on the Internet to thank for that.

Snarf Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 05:42 PM EST

Television! You can get way more charecter development over x number of episodes over x number of seasons than a 2hr movie.

John Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 05:35 PM EST

I miss Buffy =(

Emoney Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 05:22 PM EST

This is a fun question. I love the whole experience of going to see a movie in the theater. I love the popcorn and the candy and the dark room and all of it. However, that experience takes a backseat to the serious emotional investment I feel in the Dillon Panthers or the crew of Serenity. I can't think of any movie character I think of as nearly a real person like I do Buffy or Tim Riggins.

Vicky Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 05:22 PM EST

TV. Strangely enough, I've actually thought about this before. I think in my teens I was definitely a movie person. I was super involved in school and I had a part-time job, which led me miss out on weekly TV. So what to teens do in their free time. Go to the movies or rent some with friends. Then came college. Land of extra free time. I started watching more TV shows then I could count on 2 hands. I started buying TV on DVD (Buffy was my first) and building my collection. Now I look forward to the upfronts from networks to find out about new shows to watch. And then the process starts all over again. I still enjoy movies because of all the variety and great production values, but I've become more emotionally involved with TV characters. You get to see them and the show grow over time.

Laura Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 05:12 PM EST

I love movies, but I'm a television fanatic through and through. Nothing pleases me more than spending an afternoon marathon-ing a good TV show on DVD, and I have to agree with a few other people in expressing the sentiment that trashy TV shows are FAR superior to trashy films.

Laura Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 05:07 PM EST

TV, for sure. It's so much easier to fall in love with characters, especially since you see them week after week. It feels like losing a friend when you haven't seen them on tv in ages! It makes my week go by so much faster.

I do have Lost to blame my tv obsession on though. It's pretty much all Lost's fault.

Jane Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 04:42 PM EST

I used to be a movie critic, but when I moved to L.A. I became a tv writer. My love for movies hasn't changed, but tv just allows you the time to create character, tell a story thoroughly, and help develop other people's ideas and dreams on a weekly (or daily) basis. And as an audience member, tv is just getting better and better.

Kris Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 04:24 PM EST

So funny you asked this question because it is one that I've been pondering lately. When the writers were striking I found myself, not watching reality TV or movies, but watching TV on DVD's. I actually marathoned Lost because I hadn't seen Seasons 1 & 2 since they aired. Anyway, to answer your question...TV all the way baby! You become so much more emotionally invested in TV characters than you do with movies where you only get to spend a couple of hours with the characters. Also, I agree again with you, I wouldn't give up the experience of watching 7 seasons of Buffy for anything in the world.

Susan Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 04:07 PM EST

TV. The TV shows that I love strike a deep emotional chord with me...I become obsessed with the dialogue, the continuity, the small details of every character. Shows like Six Feet Under, Veronica Mars, Lost, Friday Night Lights, and Arrested Development just make my heart sing. I like movies a lot too, but I think it is telling that I only go to the movies a handful of times a year while I watch a good show at least once a week. Every now and then an unexpectedly great movie (The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters is a recent one) will knock me off my feet, but generally I just find so much more fun, interesting, sublime humorous and ridiculous stuff through TV.

Bethany Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:59 PM EST

TV... much more conducive to a busy lifestyle with a kid... made that much ebtter with tivo.

Movies are saved for special nights, like the kid's first movie (Simpsons) and as an event. On that note, I cannot WAIT for Kung Fu Panda!!!

Jen Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:57 PM EST

I agree with most posters here -- TV, for the greater richness & complexity allowed for in plot & characters. On a long-running show, you go through so much with the characters that (I at least) become tremendously emotionally involved in a way movies can't match.

The funny thing is, I used to be a total movie person, & even tended to look down on TV. (This was when TV was beginning its tawdry affair with reality, & there wasn't much else on.) But then one day, watching a movie, my attention started to wander, & I had an epiphany: I didn't care about the collection of thinly-drawn cardboard cutouts & connect-the-dots plot nearly as much as the shows I couldn't wait to watch every night on TV. This was early 2005, a year I now date as the rennaissance of TV: the season Lost, BSG, The Office, House, Dr Who, all premiered.

To be sure, nothing beats an epic masterpiece on the big screen, & TV has more than its share of moronic shows, but my heart now belongs to that big glowy box.

Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:54 PM EST

TV, always has been, always will be, my great love. There is nothing like growing up with the same characters for years. From soaps to comedies to drama, no movie gives me the feeling I get watching Lost, Buffy, The West Wing, Veronica Mars, Gilmore Girls, or Avonlea (I don't expect anyone to know that one).

shara says Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:41 PM EST

I was raised on movies, and still enjoy a good movie every now and then. But TV is my Big Love now. I love getting to know characters over the course of months or years, watching them change gradually. There are so many amazing TV shows that are compelling and engrossing, and so many great TV writers doing awesome things these days. Also, its an excellent experience to start a new series that is already out on DVD - we have a lot of big marathons at our house where we get caught up on several seasons of a show at once, like a big long movie. Only in the comfort of our living room, without having to deal with crowds and crying babies and overpriced snacks. TV rules. My favorite shows will always be Buffy/Angel/Firefly - try watching ALL those in one big long marathon!!! Happy Daze.

AS Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:33 PM EST

I always thought I was more of a movie person, but then when I started netflixing I realized I was putting many more dvds of tv shows than of movies on my list.

And then I realized that, at least for the moment, I'm liking TV more for the same reason I as a rule like novels more than short stories--done right, they're more complex, fuller stories.

Nick Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:31 PM EST

Mandi...you are heavenly.
Allow me to give a solid example: In season 2 of buffy...xander lies to buffy about what Willow said before buffy vs angel in the finale. in Season 7...buffy recalls to willow, "Remember Will, 'Kick his ass!' " recalling what xander told her. Willow starts..."Hey I never said...!"

The writing is so f.cking good is makes me want to CRY.

I'm on the TV side. Thanks to Joss and company.

paige Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:16 PM EST

well... this is very tricky... I was raised as a movie person- this was with me for a very long time until i started realizing the magic of television when done properly- the boom of HBO helped cement that theory- also- there has been a lack of enthusiasm in my part from movies and no movie I have seen has given me the satisfaction of entertaining AND making my brain work as when i saw Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind for the first time. Still though, when T.V. works, it's brilliant. I love characterization and seeing characters grow over a period of time. Sometimes though the show can falter and that happens more times than youd expect. So for now, T.V. is winning my heart but I will trade T.V. for a million Clockwork Oranges or Eternal Sunshines... until Lost comes on.

Anna Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:14 PM EST

I'm obsessed with the Oscars. I start following predictions, precursers, etc. a year in advance. On the other hadn, I don't even care who wins at the Emmys, and I've never even watched it. There is something about movies that just seem so much more magical than TV.

Anna Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:11 PM EST

Movies!! I love to go see a movie in the theatre. It feels like an event. Wheras when I watch TV, I feel a tinge of guilt like I should be doing somethign more worthwhile(for some crazy reason I don't understand). Although I absolutely LOVE some TV shows (Lost, Battlestar, Heroes, etc), my biggest obsessions are still movies!
I guess I'm the only one!

Anna Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:11 PM EST

Movies!! I love to go see a movie in the theatre. It feels like an event. Wheras when I watch TV, I feel a tinge of guilt like I should be doing somethign more worthwhile(for some crazy reason I don't understand). Although I absolutely LOVE some TV shows (Lost, Battlestar, Heroes, etc), my biggest obsessions are still movies!
I guess I'm the only one!

Jason Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:07 PM EST

TV all the way. Better stories, better actors, no crowds. It's a win win....win.

Pamela Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:07 PM EST

Melissa: I with you on Rory being on that campaign bus. I think back to Rory when I read something about journalists' experiences following the primaries etc. Gilmore Girls was only show I've held finale parties for, for each of the last three seasons.

Although film is a great medium and some films I rewatch year after year, TV has provided the most fulfillment in telling stories and giving us the compelling characters that we have time, most of the time, to get truly invested in: Gilmore Girls, X Files, Buffy, Doctor Who, Firefly (it my little heart of hearts, this show goes on). Now Lost, 30 Rock. As one commenter mentioned, a bad film stays crappy, but tv series can recover from stumbles and re-build.

Kimmie G Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:05 PM EST

I would have to go with TV. I figure that if I can wait three months to see a movie on DVD, but must, simply must, watch the new episode of whatever show right away, I am more of a TV person. Sure, convenience has a lot to do with that.
But I also agree that with TV, a viewer can get much more invested in the characters than they ever could with a movie. So many times I've cried over the happenings on a show, and still, to this day, are affected by them. Movies tend to give me the immediate emotional attachment, but aren't in it for the long burn. And that's what I love.

Ames Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:05 PM EST

I would say TV. But that comes with the caveat that I'll never love a TV show that same way I love my absolute favorite movies. If Gene Kelly were to show up on the deck of the Battlestar Gallactica, I think my life would truly be complete.

marion Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:02 PM EST

Seriously, what is it about Buffy? I was a movie person for years and then, one day, I saw the preview for Serenity and decided I'd watch Firefly. And Firefly led to Buffy. And Buffy led to Veronica Mars, Battlestar Galactica, Lost, How I Met Your Mother, Bones...the list goes on. So, thanks to Joss and Buffy, I"m a dedicated TV person now.

tuppy Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:01 PM EST

TV much more accurately reflects our life experiences, with evolving characters and intertwined narratives that extend over years and across distances — shows are like novels that way, while movies are like tight short stories: even if they too span years, they still only give you a glimpse of the characters and their lives.

Ceballos Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 03:00 PM EST

It's so interesting that the overwhelming majority of people so far are saying they're TV people because, I think the perception is still out there (though not as strong) that TV is still an inferior format to movies (meaning that a major movie star who appears in a TV show only does so because his movie career is failing and is apparently "slumming it")

Nicole R. Steeves Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 02:57 PM EST

Oh, TV. How I love you. Never leave me.

Ceballos Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 02:56 PM EST

Thinking about this, I realized that I considered myself a movie person for most of my life, but have become a TV person over the past few years. It's probably no coincidence that in that time serialized dramas and comedies that callback to events that happened years before ("The Office" "Arrested Developmen") have really come to the forefront.

So I'm a TV guy.

K Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 02:54 PM EST

I think there is more potential in the TV medium to get truly invested in a character's life...to feel their pain as if it were your own. I am a huge movie fan, but no movie has ever sent me to YouTube to watch shipper videos, or forces me to haunt message boards for hours at a time, debating episodes, characters, and plot developments. Buffy, Angel, the X-Files, Six Feet Under, Battlestar, Lost...these shows forced me to think and feel on a weekly basis, and cemented my relationship with tv forever.

DoctorJ Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 02:53 PM EST

TV for sure. I just went through all of the seasons of The Wire in preparation for season 5 and there's no substitute. Movies are like short stories -- good TV is like a novel or a series of novels. There's nothing wrong with a good short story, but novels are more engrossing and compelling.

drella66 Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 02:47 PM EST

tv.

Melissa Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 02:47 PM EST

Definitely TV. Definitely shows that are still on the air. I need to feel like there's no end in sight for my relationship with the characters. Movie characters are guaranteed to leave me in a couple of hours, so why bother investing in them in the first place? I need the promise of continuity. That's why I can't deal when my favorite TV shows are cancelled (V Mars) or in danger thereof (FNL). Perhaps this signals some deep-rooted attachment issues. And it probably also explains why I truly believe that still out there, in the Obama press corps, Rory Gilmore is dutifully covering the campaign. That's why she hasn't been at Friday night dinners, you guys! She's working, right??

Red Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 02:46 PM EST

That's like asking which is your favorite child. Both have their pros and cons. i just can't pick!

El Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 02:46 PM EST

Put me in the TV camp as well. As far as a complex story with character growth, the only thing that beats TV is a book. I get kind of angry when people look down on TV but are perfectly accepting of movies and music. TV can take you places that a 2 hour movie could only dream of. This is, of course, assuming it's done well. There are plenty of stinkers in every category.