Synopsis
All in the Family begat Maude, which begat Good Times, giving thisseries the dubious distiinction of being a spin-off of a spin-off. Unusual then and now for beingset in a housing project in a crime-ridden area of Chicago, the series continues, in its thirdseason, to tackle such subjects as gun control, unemployment, the recession, and so on. Thismakes the show more ambitious than the empty-headed sitcoms that were unaccountablysuccessful (Full House…/i> anyone?), but it just isn’t that funny, “Dy-no-mite!” catch phraseor not. In fact, the JJ character is the weakest aspect of the show. This season marks the end ofJohn Amos’ tenure as the pater familias, who departs in very un-sit-com fashion.
Audio
The sound is very harsh. From the opening credits on, the upper registers are something of anightmare, whether we’re talking music or dialogue. This is where the series most obviouslyshows its age. The sound isn’t bad enough to render the listening experience unendurable, but itis no treat.
Video
The picture is sharp, almost unnaturally so, giving the transfer an almost anachronistic look.The colours are fine, neither leaping off the screen nor being too washed out. There is no grain ofany consequence.
Special Features
None, barring some ads for other TV-related DVD releases. The menu is basic. The box doescome with an episode guide.
Closing Thoughts
Something of a document, I guess. But are there that many people who have been crying outto be able to watch this show for all eternity on DVD?
Special Features List
- Episode Guide
