For this week, we visit a hilarious, but somewhat adult language, series from Funny or Die, 'A Very Special Episode.'
The concept is fantastic. We revisit the 'issue of the moment' episodes from 80's and 90's TV shows, episodes which copied the After School Special formulas from the 70's, talking about teen sex, peer pressure, drugs and drinking. It was a way for television programs, primarily sitcoms (?), to give themselves some self created "serious acting" cred, doing an episode where serious topics were addressed by the teen stars of the day. I think the mentality was the comedy show taking it seriously (with jokes) would help the message hit home. I don't think they thought that through.
To say these episode are atrocious television is an understatement. They've not aged well. This is where Funny or Die mines the comedy gold. Sure they sometimes glorify the vice the episode was railing against (particularly drinking and drug use), but overall this is a great take down of people who were lucky to have the celebrity they had, people who were taking themselves WAY too seriously.
Let's begin with Family Matters where Urkle got drunk and fell off the roof.
Next up is Growing Pains, with the troublesome issue of 80's girls with coke.
Finally, from 7th Heaven (NOT a sitcom), gangs are recruiting!
These episodes are from season 1, but 'A Very Special Episode' just put out their 4th season. Watch them all...and maybe you'll learn a little something!
Have a great weekend everyone.
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