This is an episode of The Frank Sinatra Show that was originally taped on October 19, 1958. Guest stars are Bing Crosby and Dean Martin, with Mitzi Gayner and a cameo from Jimmy Durante.
They've remastered an archive tape, and it shows. You still see the fuzz and occasional black spot on screen, but that's to be expected from anything that was taped in 1958, so I wasn't bothered by it — just be aware that this isn't video quality like you're used to from modern DVDs. The sound quality likewise is passable, but isn't quite digital quality.
Dean, Bing, and Mitzi kick things off with "High Hopes," as they wonder where Frank could possibly be — he's late for his own show! Frank arrives in time for a final verse and chorus, then perform "Day In and Day Out."
John Cameron Swayze does his patented "Takes a Licking and Keeps on Ticking" Timex schtick — attached to a motorboat engine that doesn't really want to start. The watch survives, AND stays on the propeller. The ad geek in me loved seeing this. A LOT more facts than are ever given in a modern commercial.
Dean, Bing, and Frank do a little talking (I stop short at calling it 'comedy') and launch into "Together." Dean Martin is, throughout, his usual flamboyant self — at times, he comes close to upstaging Bing and Frank. Bing gets more comedic lines than he ever did working with Bob Hope, but he seems uncomfortable with the roll. Mitzi Gayner's classic burlesque performance of "Hurricane" is tame by today's standards, but I cannot imagine what was said about it in 1958.
Classic songs like "Dancing Cheek to Cheek" and "Old Man River," and of course Frank's "The Lady is a Tramp," round out this hour long Variety Show Special (sponsored by, of course, Timex). The performances are solid from each of the stars, and the supporting cast is outstanding as well.
The DVD is a complete copy of the original broadcast, commercials included. For TV history buffs, TV historians (yes, there's a difference), and fans of the Rat Pack this is a must-have DVD. If you've always been interested in early TV, you should check this out as well. It offers a remarkable contrast between TV of today and TV of the "Golden Age of Television."
Article comments
1 - Allison
Actually i think frank sinatra was great,fantastic singer,only down-fall being in with the mob mafia,i enjoyed him in the film young at heart with the great icon Doris day.