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Margaret and David quit movie show

Margaret Pomeranz and David Stratton are quitting their long running movie review show, after 28 years, and one of the longest and most enduring partnerships on Australian television.

ABC announced today the pair will record the final episode of At the Movies on December 9.

Pomeranz and Stratton came to the ABC in 2004 from SBS, where they had hosted The Movie Show for the previous 18 years.

Since their accidental pairing more than a quarter of a century ago, the pair have grown to become Australia's most admired and trusted movie reviewers, as well as enjoying an envious reputation abroad.

"After 28 years reviewing films on television with Margaret, ten of them at the ABC, I feel it's time to go. We've had a wonderful time, thanks to very supportive and encouraging audiences, throughout that period. And we've worked with wonderful teams, both at SBS and at the ABC, people who discovered movies alongside us, helped and assisted us, and in the process became valued friends. We couldn't have done it without them," Stratton said.

"Most of all, working with Margaret, whose enthusiasm, commitment and passion has been amazing (and only occasionally irritating) has been a joy for over a quarter of a century. But, since I turned 75 last week, I look forward to less pressure and more opportunities to enjoy the movies I love, in the years ahead." .

Pomeranz added: "As David says, it's time to go from the small screen after a great innings, thanks to all our viewers and the fabulous teams we've worked with over the years. And thank you to the ABC and SBS. We've been lucky to work for two great public broadcasters, and long may they prosper.

"My gratitude goes to David who gave me credibility just by being prepared to sit by me and discuss film when I am just a film enthusiast, not the great walking encyclopedia of film that he is. He's a grand person, a most generous, decent man, even if a little stubborn at times.

"We've seen Australian films continue to mature over nearly three decades on air and I look forward to a continued involvement in this wonderful industry of ours which explores and reflects our culture and our peccadilloes. It's been such a privilege to have been on the sidelines, witnessing the talent that this country produces in all areas of film production.

"I'm very sad to have to call an end to our show, it started out as a very fragile thing and only survived because there are enough lovers of film in this country to support a specific program about cinema. Thank you all."

Following the announcement, ABC said At the Movies will not be returning in 2015.