Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

TCM's 2026 Lineup Celebrates Working-Class Stories and Classics

1/5/2026

49 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

TCM's January 2026 schedule features a mix of musicals, film noir, and dramas about working-class struggles.
Highlights include Sally Field (actress) in Norma Rae and Cher (singer-actor) in Silkwood, plus classic noir like Double Indemnity.
The lineup honors lyricist Sammy Cahn with Frank Sinatra films and features Tuesday spotlights on working-class heroes such as North Country and Salt of the Earth, emphasizing union rights.

History

Historical Context

The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), enacted on July 5, 1935, marked a pivotal moment in U.S. labor history by establishing workers' rights to unionize and bargain collectively. This legislation followed a surge in labor activism during the Great Depression, empowering unions and leading to significant cultural representations in films like "Norma Rae" and "Silkwood," which highlight ongoing struggles for workers' rights.

1 of 2

Story summary

TCM's January 2026 schedule features a mix of musicals, film noir, and dramas about working-class struggles.
Highlights include Sally Field (actress) in Norma Rae and Cher (singer-actor) in Silkwood, plus classic noir like Double Indemnity.
The lineup honors lyricist Sammy Cahn with Frank Sinatra films and features Tuesday spotlights on working-class heroes such as North Country and Salt of the Earth, emphasizing union rights.

1 / 2