... it is this: The Dismantling & Destruction of NFL Films There is little doubt that the NFL owes much of its billions in revenue to NFL Films and the mythical aura of the game that Ed Sabol and company created. What Mr. Goodell and the Network Exec Bornstein do not understand is that with all the glitz they have taken away the soul of the game. Forget the whole "discipline" issue the players have. That's minimal stuff. But, the way the NFL Network is run and, simultaneously, they way the execs have undermined the entire production philosophy of NFL Films is atrocious. This, on the eve of Ed Sabol's induction into the Hall of Fame. There were money issues at NFL Films but the reality is, what they bring to the table in terms of popularizing the game cannot be directly measured in daily TV ratings/revenue. NFL Films has been as significant a foundation block for the NFL game as any other piece. If Goodell is all about "protecting the shield" he and he league leadership has actually done more damage than the players he's disciplined by allowing this "shack" called NFL Network to continue to destroy the artistry that was once NFL Films. And, an artistry that could bring the mythological story-telling into the hearts of millions in the future.
It is a real shame. I grew up on NFL films VCR tapes played over and over. I had to buy 3 copies of "NFL greatest hits" just to keep watching it. However, it's a business decision. I don't think the NFL network (whether you like it or not) could survive with just NFL-network-type of videos. They are trying to attract the younger, ADD, audience, not just the old Fogeys like me. The real shame is that it's an either-or situation, and not something of a real blend.
OMG, someone young enough to be my son considers himself an old fogey??? WTF does that make me? Wait. Don't answer that.
I personally felt like the America's Game series was fantastic, and I well always have a soft spot for those 70s and 80s highlight films. I don't see why they didn't just make it a part of the NFL Network. Seems short sighted to shut it down.
One of my career goals is to somehow be involved with NFL Films (producer, director, cinematographer, editor, anything). They produce fantastic stuff, without question.
typical of the new global business climate...sacrifice the long for the short bottom line. just think where the league might be had they had a similar attitude decades ago. NFL films presentations definitely drew me in and gave me an appreciation of different eras. those super slow mo vids from the 70's with blaring horns and sometimes funk music are a treasure. then again, there is something to be said for how well the newer versions of NFL films are received. if people dont watch them... if we are more concerned with twitter television, we can only blame ourselves
I won't rub it in old man. I turn 40 this month, so it's something I'm hearing over and over at home.
I still love old football footage. It is so interesting to see what the game was like before it became the game I love today. I am a big fan of Top 10. I love that show. Especially since they were smart enough to give the best linebacking corp to the Saints instead of the popular choice, the Steelers.
