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The Great American Dream Machine (DVD) Review

 
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At A Glance...
 

Genre: ,
 
Age Rating:
 
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Length: 13 hours
 
Final Score
 
 
 
 
 
4/ 5


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We liked?


A fascinating (and funny) look at a pivotal point in history.

Not so much?


Won't appeal to all audiences, as you really have to have a good grasp on the history and culture of the time to enjoy many of the skits.


Final Fiendish Findings?

“Television’s original satirical comedy series” Classic television can be an eye opening peek into history. Seeing world changing events from the viewpoint of that generation, as they are occurring, really cements how real the effects of those events were at the time. Just imagine how viewers will experience Saturday Night Live episodes addressing the 9/11 […]

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Posted November 22, 2015 by

 
Full Fiendish Findings?
 
 

“Television’s original satirical comedy series”

Classic television can be an eye opening peek into history. Seeing world changing events from the viewpoint of that generation, as they are occurring, really cements how real the effects of those events were at the time. Just imagine how viewers will experience Saturday Night Live episodes addressing the 9/11 terror attacks, or The Daily Show episodes dealing with political corruption and you’ll get a glimpse of how much power the immediate reaction has. Before there was Jimmy Kimmel, or Stephen Colbert, or even Saturday Night Live, there was the Great American Dream Machine – and you’ll be surprised at just how many familiar faces you’ll recognize.

The Great American Dream Machine is really considered to be television’s first attempt at a satirical comedy series – and it was a great success. The showed from 1971-1973, and it made great strides in opening minds as to what sorts of things could be addressed on television – particularly because it was not beholden to any sponsors. Most of the satire series we have now were inspired in some part by the show, and many great comics got their start as well. This DVD set includes four dvds and thirteen hours of content, and features tons of celebrities from Evil Knievel to Chevy Chase to Andy Rooney.

There’s no doubt that The Great American Dream Machine was groundbreaking as a series, and the events and ideas of the early 70’s are fascinating from a historical standpoint. But how well does the comedy really translate for modern audiences? It’s certainly one of those DVD sets that will suit some more than others. For one thing, if you don’t have a decent grasp on the culture and history of that era, the jokes may fall a little flat. This will definitely be more suited to older audiences, or at least those more historically inclined. That being said, there are plenty of skits that are just plain funny to anyone – it just might not be worth an entire DVD set if that’s all you’re looking for.

The Great American Dream Machine 4-DVD Set offers an eye opening look back into a pivotal time in history. Offering satirical looks at series issues like the Vietnam War and Nixon’s presidency, as well as appearances from memorable comedians like Al Brooks and Charles Grodin, it’s a humorous look into history that, while it may not appeal to all audiences, is certainly well worth watching for those who appreciate classic humor.


Amy

 
U.S. Senior Editor & Deputy EIC, @averyzoe on Twitter, mother of 5, gamer, reader, wife to @macanthony, and all-around bad-ass (no, not really)


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