Drive-In Classics: The Evolution of a Cult Cinema Channel
For nearly two decades, a specific slice of the Canadian broadcast landscape evolved from a nostalgic tribute to B-movies into a hub for independent cinema. Starting as Drive-In Classics, the channel captured the spirit of mid-century drive-in theaters before transitioning into the sophisticated curation of the Sundance Channel.
The Era of Drive-In Classics (2001–2010)
The journey began in June 2001, when the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)—the regulatory body for Canadian broadcasting—approved CHUM Limited to launch a national category 2 specialty channel. Originally titled "The Drive-In Channel," the service was designed to showcase B movies, series, and magazine-style programming focused on the genre.
The channel officially debuted as Drive-In Classics on September 7, 2001, at 9:00 p.m. EST. Its programming primarily featured films popular at drive-in theaters between the 1950s and 1970s. In addition to cinema, the channel aired television series such as Xena: Warrior Princess and The Hilarious House of Frightenstein.
To keep viewers engaged, Drive-In Classics utilized themed programming blocks. These included Martial Arts Mondays for fight films, Western Wednesdays for Westerns, and Steamy Windshields on Fridays, which focused on teenage-themed movies. Saturdays were reserved for the Horror Marathon, featuring horror films and selections curated by host Rob Salem. This themed approach continued until August 30, 2009.
Corporate Transitions and Ownership Changes
The channel underwent several ownership shifts during its tenure. In July 2006, Bell Globemedia announced the purchase of CHUM for approximately $1.7 billion CAD. This transaction, which included Drive-In Classics, was approved by the CRTC in June 2007 and finalized on June 22, 2007.
By July 14, 2009, CTVglobemedia announced it was selling Drive-In Classics and SexTV: The Channel to Corus Entertainment for $40 million CAD. Following the CRTC's approval of the sale on November 19, Corus began preparing for a total brand overhaul.
The Transition to Sundance Channel
On December 8, 2009, Corus announced that Drive-In Classics would be rebranded as the Canadian version of the Sundance Channel (now known as SundanceTV). This move was made under an agreement with AMC Networks (formerly Rainbow Media Holdings, LLC, a subsidiary of Cablevision), though AMC Networks held no ownership stake in the Canadian entity.
The rebrand took effect on March 1, 2010. The channel shifted its focus away from B-movies toward a more prestige lineup of independent films, documentaries, scripted comedies, dramas, and musical performances.
The Final Chapter
The channel's operations came to an end in early 2018. A notice posted on the Sundance Channel website in February 2018 announced that the channel would close on March 1, 2018. Consequently, the broadcast space originally established by Drive-In Classics in 2001 ceased to exist, and the CRTC officially revoked the broadcast license on March 27, 2018.
Key Facts
- Launch Date: September 7, 2001.
- Original Focus: B-movies from the 1950s to 1970s.
- Major Rebrand: Became Sundance Channel on March 1, 2010.
- Final Closure: March 1, 2018.
- Key Owners: CHUM Limited, Bell Globemedia, CTVglobemedia, and Corus Entertainment.
| Year | Event | Entity Involved |
|---|---|---|
| 2001 | Launch of Drive-In Classics | CHUM Limited |
| 2007 | Acquisition of CHUM | Bell Globemedia |
| 2009 | Sale to Corus Entertainment | CTVglobemedia |
| 2010 | Rebrand to Sundance Channel | Corus Entertainment |
| 2018 | License Revocation | CRTC |
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of movies did Drive-In Classics air?
The channel focused primarily on the B-movie genre, specifically films that were popular at drive-in theaters from the 1950s through the 1970s.
Who hosted the horror programming on Drive-In Classics?
The horror films and the "Horror Marathon" were curated and presented by host Rob Salem.
Did AMC Networks own the Canadian Sundance Channel?
No. While the channel operated under an agreement with AMC Networks, the American company did not own any stake in the Canadian version.
When did the channel officially stop broadcasting?
The channel closed on March 1, 2018, and its broadcast license was revoked by the CRTC on March 27, 2018.
What was the cost of the sale to Corus Entertainment?
CTVglobemedia sold Drive-In Classics and SexTV: The Channel to Corus Entertainment for $40 million CAD.