The Carol Burnett Show was an institution from 1967 to 1978. The fact that a variety show airing on Saturdays at 10 p.m. for most of its run was a hit is probably inconceivable to a generation that sees that as a graveyard slot. Over the course of 11 seasons, Carol, her crew and special guests made it their little spot to entertain the tens of millions of people who had no social life or didn’t even want to fake going to a nightclub. They were happy to stay at home and watch Carol deliver late night fun. The Carol Burnett Show: 50th Anniversary has her return to her old soundstage to enjoy those days with her old friends and a few new ones.
The special opens with Stephen Colbert letting us know that he’s not the host for the night, but loved Carol. The star emerges onto her old stage to turn the lights up and have a chat with the audience. Although there are a few familiar faces waving their hands. Carol once more reveals the secret behind her ear tug. Carol gets to hold court with younger female comedy actresses. The impact of Carol can best be measured in smile of Jane Lynch. Carol’s regular players Vicki Lawrence and Lyle Waggoner arrive to share memories of their time spoofing the hits and taking part in the big musical numbers. Harvey Korman passed away in 2008 and Tim Conway’s health issues kept him off the stage. But both of them are more than appreciated with clips from the show. Jay Leno and Bill Hader pay tribute to the actor who could play all the roles thrown at him. Korman brought Johnny Carson to see Leno at a comedy club. Jimmy Carrey recreates the time he received mail from Carol. And we get a visit from Bob Mackie, the man behind the gowns including the famous Gone With the Wind curtain dress.
The Carol Burnett Show: 50th Anniversary great celebration of the show that meant so much to so many. The impact is felt through praise of today’s actors and the clips from the past. The special is perfect for anyone who stays up late to watch the best of The Carol Burnett Show on MeTV late at night. The Carol Burnett Show deserves to be given a celebration after 50 years.
The video is 1.78:1 anamorphic. The detail is brought out a little bit more in the vintage show footage that was shot on standard def. The Audio is 5.1 and 2.0 Dolby Digital sound. You’ll appreciate the Tarzan yell better and clearer than before. The special is subtitled.
Red Carpet Love (2:38) has quick praise from her guest stars as they arrive for the show.
Commercial Break Banter (4:33) is Carol keeping the fun going with the audience and guests between set up. A special guest asks if Carol would want to do a dance show.
Anniversary Messages to Carol (1:44) has famous people praising the show including one star with a familiar dress.
Time Life presents The Carol Burnett Show: 50th Anniversary. Starring: Carol Burnett, Vicki Lawrence, Lyle Waggoner and Jane Lynch. Running Time: 88 minutes. Released: September 18, 2018.
