Local television is a favourite target of expat complaints. Government-controlled CCTV runs most channels, broadcasting more than a dozen stations. The only English language channel is CCTV 9. Their programming, like the rest of Chinese television, is heavily censored with little original programming and a heavy focus on documentaries, news and talk shows. Chinese soaps and classic operas are plentiful and make for interesting viewing. CCTV 6 plays movies, but be warned: they will often stop the film halfway through and move onto other programmes. CCTV 5 shows sports, and occasionally airs important basketball or football matches. As your favourite shows will not be airing in China, you’ll need to find some of the ubiquitous pirate DVDs to keep up with Lost or Heroes. Nonetheless, these shows are popular in Beijing; Prison Break, was even airing on a regional channel for a while, until the government stepped in.