July 24
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
The first of the films to pair Paul Newman and Robert Redford plays out in the days when the West was almost won. When Butch and Sundance rob one too many banks, they’re shocked at the relentlessness of their pursuit and flee for Bolivia. Not many “buddy” films can match this one. AMC (HD) 8pm ET
July 25
Dances With Wolves
In this Western epic, a decorated Union soldier living in the Dakotas comes into contact with Native Americans and eventually learns to appreciate their way of life. Ultimately, he finds his loyalties caught between two peoples with very different agendas. Oscar winner for Best Picture and Best Director (Kevin Costner). Oscar nominees Mary McDonnell and Graham Greene costar. AMC (HD) 8pm
July 26
The Departed
Martin Scorsese’s done better films by far, so it’s a little disappointing that this effort — a remake of a 2002 Hong Kong thriller — was the one to bring him Academy gold, but it definitely has his fingerprints all over it. Solid performances from Martin Sheen, Matt Damon and even Leonardo DiCaprio make this a knuckle-biter you’ll want to see again … if you can stand the tension. FX (HD) 8pm ET
July 27
That Thing You Do!
Tom Hanks’ major-film directorial debut about fictional ’60s one-hit wonders The Wonders is a delightfully playful-yet-wise comedy about the fleeting nature of fame, getting what one wants, and the true definition of happiness. But never mind all of that — it’s hilarious, and the title song is still catchy after all these years. One of the great rock ‘n’ roll movies of all time. FMC 6pm, 10pm ET
July 28
50 First Dates
Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler charm in this quirky romantic comedy about a man who falls in love with a woman who suffers from short-term memory loss. From cheesy pick-up lines to staged muggings, Sandler schemes up new and clever ways to impress the girl who can’t remember him. Despite silly moments and over-the-top supporting characters, typical Sandler fare, the chemistry between the two stars is more than enough to compensate and fully entertain. USA (HD) 10pm ET
July 30
Gone With the Wind
It would be hard not to “give a damn” for what can arguably be called the most successful American movie of all time. From Vivien Leigh’s fiery Scarlett O’Hara to the burning of Atlanta, there’s enough spark in this Civil War epic to keep its popularity blazing for generations to come. TCM 8pm ET