The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour: The Best of Season 3

In his thoughtful and candid audio introduction, Tommy Smothers admits he was reluctant to release the controversial and infamously cancelled The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour on DVD, thinking it might be best left to memory as “a fantastic show of its time.” He needn't have worried: no mere ‘60s time capsule relic, these 11 episodes from the groundbreaking variety series' third and final 1968-69 season are not only still funny and entertaining, but—after 40 years—the political and social satire (and bold anti-war stance) remain sharp. With its mix of old school show business and counterculture comedy, The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour revolutionized the staid variety show format for a new generation, ultimately paving the way for shows such as Saturday Night Live. No one expected the clean-cut Smothers Brothers to make waves. But head writer Mason Williams (other staff writers included Steve Martin) wanted to push the show in a more subversive direction, and Tommy—who only played dumb opposite his brother Dick—sought and was granted (he thought) creative control from the network. By the third season, the brothers and the show were fully and unapologetically politicized. In the season opener that kicks off this set, their appearance has radically changed: gone are the signature blazers, and both sport mustaches. With “beeping censors lurking in the wings,” the Smothers defiantly sing, “We're still here.” Among this set's many highlights: Harry Belafonte's performance of “Don't Stop the Carnival” juxtaposed with footage of the 1968 Chicago Democratic Convention, which the censors did cut, forcing a noticeably upset Tom and Dick to fill in with an audience Q&A (also included as an extra); the benchmark sketch, “A Fable for Our Time,” featuring impressionist David Frye going medieval on Lyndon Johnson, Hubert Humphrey, George Wallace, and Richard Nixon; a surprise appearance by George Harrison; a charming Donovan sing-along to “Happiness Runs”; and an episode never aired by CBS (and said to have resulted in the show's cancellation) that featured David Steinberg's “Jonah” sermon. Many happy hours will be spent watching the treasure trove of bonus features, which include the Henry Fonda-narrated classic special “Pat Paulsen for President” (chronicling deadpan ensemble member Paulsen's grassroots White House campaign), as well as the complete Bill Maher-hosted Smothers Brothers reunion at the 2000 U.S. Comedy Arts Festival, exclusive interviews with former guests, backstage and rehearsal footage, and over 100 pieces of correspondence between CBS and the producers (including memos, letters, and telegrams over censorship issues). One of this year's best DVD sets, this is highly recommended. Editor's Choice. (D. Liebenson)