BEING THERE
TCM, 8:00 p.m. ET
When you start compiling a list of the best movies ever made about politics, it’s easy to forget about this 1979 fable of power and perception. But it’s also wrong, because this film, adapted by Jerzy Kosinski from his own novella, is as shrewd about the ways of Washington as its central character, played flawlessly by Peter Sellers, is simple. And Being There, directed by Hal Ashby, is simply masterful. And it’s shown tonight by TCM as part of its “31 Days of Oscar” celebration, which tonight showcases Best Supporting Actor Winners. Melvyn Douglas won for his role in this film, playing an ailing wealthy businessman who befriends Sellers’ mysterious, mercurial house guest. Also contributing greatly to this film: Shirley MacLaine and Jack Warden.