After numerous releases of highlights from The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson—the defining late-night talk show from 1962 through 1992—The Vault Series presents episodes from the 1970s in their entirety, from the appearance of the NBC peacock logo through the end credits (viewers even have the option to watch with the original commercials intact). It's interesting to contrast The Tonight Show with modern late-night talk shows. Both share an opening monologue, comedy bits, guests, and usually a performance (either by a musical act or a comedian), but what differs is tone and rhythm. What might seem racy in the 1970s feels awfully innocent 40 years later, and the pace of the older show is far more relaxed, with conversations meandering for longer periods of time and even continuing on after the commercial break. Carson took time with his guests and was a marvelous conversationalist, which really set the standard for late-night talk. Along with the array of TV, movie, and music celebrities in each episode—here including Gene Kelly, Joe Frazier, Richard Pryor, Tony Randall, and Stockard Channing—viewers will see Carson do his famous Carnac routine with his reliable sideman Ed McMahon, the Mighty Carson Art Players, animal tricks, and other regular features. Compiling 12 episodes from 1972-77, extras include two hours of bonus clips and interviews. Recommended. (S. Axmaker)
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson—The Vault Series: Archive Classics
Time-Life, 6 discs, 1,052 min., not rated, DVD: $59.95 Volume 32, Issue 1
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson—The Vault Series: Archive Classics
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