Ahh, Nostalgia

Oct 04, 2008 20:32

There are two shows that I am really hoping will be released on DVD someday, but I kind of doubt that they will.

The first is a show was Manimal it was about a wealthy philanthropist named Jonathan Chase, who is heir to his family legacy and secret, the secrets that seperate animal from man, man from animal. He has the ability to transform into any animal he wishes, although he normally just transforms into either a panther or hawk. He, along with his comedic sidekick, and a beautiful female police detective run around and solve mysteries and crimes. And several times per episode Jonathan has to transform into some animal to save the day. It is like the Incredible Hulk meets the Beastmaster, but only in a crime/action format

Sure it was cheesy, VERY cheesy, and the special effects were kinda bad by todays standard (but were actually fairly impressive back when it first aired), but I really loved the idea of a guy that could transform into any animal he wanted to. It was like having dozens of super-powers available. Plus the show was fairly entertaining and didn't take itself too seriously. I mean any show that shows a Brahma bull beating the hell out of an entire dojo of martial artists, or a hawk rescuing an unconscious skydiver is awesome in my book *lol*.

Anyway, I'll let you judge for yourself. Here is the first part to the first episode. And a montage of some of the animals he transforms into (including the aforementioned bull asskicking episode). The vids don't allow embedding, so click then link to enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNtjhTRyJ1U

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_syUuyV3YIc

Recently, this show was included on a "Top 5 shows that should never be remade" list. I strongly disagree. I think that this show would be AWESOME if they remade it. Make it less cheesy, better special effects, and get rid of the crime solving aspect of it and make it more of a super-hero show where you find out more about the characters history and other character driven plots instead of cheesy cop whodunits.

The next show I wish would come out on DVD is also very cheesy and involves animals. The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams. I REALLY miss this show, and I still have a tear whenever I hear the theme song to the show "Maybe" by Thom Pace. Every Sunday morning watching that show with my dad was a cherished tradition in our house. It was one of the few moments while growing up that I got to spend any time with my dad since he was always busy working, doing outdoorsy things, or going to the many sports events my 3 older brothers were always involved in. The show holds a special place in my memory and in my heart, so of course I would love to see it on DVD.

Even besides the nostalgia and family hour factor that the show holds for me, I still really enjoy the show on it's own merits. Sure the animal interaction between Adams and the creatures of the forest is completely unrealistic, but the love and respect for wildlife and treating native americans and the environment with respect it taught is something that I wish everyone could make a reality. Sure it could be cheesy, heavy handed, and preachy, but it was also a very fun show.

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Plus, how can you not love that awesome beard!

musings, tv

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