HC Reviews

The Muppet Show: Season 1

You know, as a youth, there were certain tv shows that held a special place in my heart because they were used as bonding moments for my family and because I just loved either the characters or the action.

Unfortunately, some tv shows don't hold the test of time when viewed as an adult (Wonder Woman and Dukes of Hazard, I'm looking at you!). Gone is the childish innocence and suspension of disbelief and in its place is cynicism and reality. I watched those old shows and cringed at the awful writing and acting and part of my inner child died.

But I like to think I got it back watching The Muppet Show: Season 1. I'm not sure if it's because the performers are muppets and therefore I'm less forgiving or because I tend to laugh at bad jokes anyways. I hope it's because, even though the bad puns are coming from muppets, the acting is still solid and the fun translates over the years.

The first season DVD include all 24 episodes plus the pilot episode, the 2 minute pitch video, and a gag reel. The shows also include the "UK spots" previously not seen by US audiences (the UK doesn't have commercials during the shows so the episodes were longer; in the US, one segment had to be cut to make room for the commercials). Plus, all episodes have a "trivia" option in which bits of trivia about the show, the performers, the muppets, etc. will pop up (and you know I'm a sucker for that sort of thing).

For example, did you know that the Swedish Chef was manipulated by both Frank Oz (body) and Jim Henson (hands and voice)? I never noticed before either, but the Swedish Chefs hands are real (Jim Henson's), not muppet-y. And that the 2 old guys in the balcony are named after hotels (Waldorf and Statler; Waldorf's wife is Astoria)? Or that Twiggy could sing (who knew? I thought she was just a model/actress)?

While watching the episodes, I found myself laughing out loud several times, mainly at the antics of Animal (he is my favorite Muppet from the Muppet Show; Elmo is my favorite from Sesame Street). And Veterinarian Hospital remains my favorite sketch, followed closely by Pigs In Space (which wasn't a first season sketch).

If you want a show that will bring out the kid in you and remind you of good times, rent these DVDs!

Posted by xinh at 08:31 PM