First let me say that the other review posted for this show is incorrect, it is talking about the second Christmas Special (1978).
This 1977 Christmas Special has not been seen since it first aired in 1977, and I saw it then. At that time I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. But my opinion would be tainted by the joy of seeing my favorite TV characters in a new story after a decade of being off-air.
In the story: the confusion that went on as Norton directed a play put on by Ralph's boss brought me to the floor laughing. Everyone seemed to be spot-on with their performances, as if the series never stopped. Their characters were existing even though we were not able to watch them. But now some 35 years later I wish I could see this special again to see how it holds up. With all of the old shows readily available on DVD to compare this show to, it is frustrating not to see this again.
I can say that the other three specials were a bit of a let down when viewed again on DVD over 30 years later. As I have been seeing some of the live 1950's segments on DVD for the first time, these reunion specials no longer held that joy of something new. Now these final specials seem a bit tired with routines re-cycled from the 'good-old-days" of the early Honeymooners.
I am glad these were produced, as it was nice to see the gang again for one last group of hurrays. But they are just not up to the top-notch 1950's programs (neither were the color shows of the 1960's).
This 1977 Christmas Special has not been seen since it first aired in 1977, and I saw it then. At that time I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. But my opinion would be tainted by the joy of seeing my favorite TV characters in a new story after a decade of being off-air.
In the story: the confusion that went on as Norton directed a play put on by Ralph's boss brought me to the floor laughing. Everyone seemed to be spot-on with their performances, as if the series never stopped. Their characters were existing even though we were not able to watch them. But now some 35 years later I wish I could see this special again to see how it holds up. With all of the old shows readily available on DVD to compare this show to, it is frustrating not to see this again.
I can say that the other three specials were a bit of a let down when viewed again on DVD over 30 years later. As I have been seeing some of the live 1950's segments on DVD for the first time, these reunion specials no longer held that joy of something new. Now these final specials seem a bit tired with routines re-cycled from the 'good-old-days" of the early Honeymooners.
I am glad these were produced, as it was nice to see the gang again for one last group of hurrays. But they are just not up to the top-notch 1950's programs (neither were the color shows of the 1960's).