The American Spectator

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To Be Absolutely Frank

(Page 2 of 2)

Two taste-makers are evidently too few to stimulate televised creativity. Moreover, since Berlusconi is now prime minister, he effectively controls both major forces in Italian TV.

Though all this ought to make Americans feel grateful for their four networks, not to mention the scores of other options on the typical U.S. cable service, there's one respect in which Italian broadcasting unquestionably enjoys the edge in glamour. How often do Americans get to see the likes of Kevin Costner, Robert De Niro, Harrison Ford, Marlon Brando, and Uma Thurman in original, made-for-TV productions? All these international stars have recently appeared on Italian TV -- pitching comfort shoes, cars, long distance service and perfume.

Francis X. Rocca is a writer in Vicenza, Italy.

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