The Monkees: Season 02 (1967)

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This five-DVD set includes the second (and final) season of The Monkees television show, which first ran on NBC between September 11, 1967, and September 9, 1968. In addition to all 26 half-hour episodes, The Monkees: Season 02 also contains several substantial supplementary features. Primary among the bonuses is the inclusion of the 60-minute 33 1/2 Revolutions per Monkee special that only aired once, on April 14, 1969. The unmitigated and perhaps unexpected success of the Emmy-winning first season -- which ran September 12, 1966, through September 4, 1967 -- allowed the actors freedom to add to the creative processes both on- and off-camera. This gave Peter Tork and Mickey Dolenz the opportunity to direct. It also led cast members to use their weekly, national prime-time platform to introduce the nation to hip up-and-comers such as Frank Zappa ("Monkees Blow Their Minds"), Tim Buckley ("The Frodis Caper"), and Charlie Smalls ("Some Like It Lukewarm").

For the more seasoned viewer, the commentaries are particularly worthwhile, as they host a plethora of behind-the-scenes insights and reminiscences. Although only eight of the programs contain commentaries, all four cast members as well as producer/creator Robert Rafelson contribute, as does musician and co-star of 33 1/2 Revolutions per Monkee, Brian Auger. His narration is especially illuminating as a one-time collaborator with a decidedly fresh perspective on the pre-fab phenomenon. Among the other extras are a few short excerpts from the bands' February 9, 1969, appearance on The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour, as well as an interview with Gerry Sheppard. As the film editor of the television series, he was one of the primary players in designing the unique visual style for which the show became so celebrated. There are a few downsides, such as the difficult-to-navigate and tedious onscreen menus, poorly remastered video, inexpensive packaging, and insignificant liner notes -- that is, when compared to the oversized and fact-filled booklet that accompanied the complete VHS box set. These caveats aside, Monkees' enthusiasts will be enamored with each fun-filled episode as they remain remarkably fresh thanks to the frantically paced mix of slapstick comedy and ultimately timeless music. ~ Lindsay Planer, All Movie Guide

Theatrical Feature Running Time:

710 mins

Categories:

Television

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