In the 1930s, 40s and 50s, going to a movie matinee was an event. In those days, moviegoers were treated to more than a movie: there were coming attractions, cartoons, newsreels, comedy shorts, serials and feature films.

During the 1980s, the MATINEE AT THE BIJOU series of classic cartoons, selected short subjects, cliffhanging serials and feature films was one of the most popular series on PBS. The American movie-going experiences of the 1930s, 40s and 50s were faithfully recreated week after week for five consecutive seasons. PBS member stations loved the series because it appealed to all age and income groups - and audiences came back week after week for more.—Bob Campbell

An anthology television series aimed at recreating the movie-going experiences of the 1930s and the 1940s by broadcasting many short films along with a single- or double-feature presentation. The series extensively relied on public-domain content. Its mascot was Betty Boop, as it broadcast several of Betty's animated films by the Fleischer Studios.—Dimos I