TV Show Review: “That ‘70s Show”
By Donnell Solomon
Rated TV-14
Summary: That ‘70s Show is a sitcom that follows the experiences of a group of teenagers entering adulthood in the ‘70s in the suburbs of Wisconsin. Like most teenagers do, the characters get themselves into all kinds of trouble, which supplies the plots for the episodes themselves.
The inclusion of some of the character’s parents within the show creates a comedic relationship for viewers. The main parents are Kitty and Red. Kitty is a loving mother with a big smile, while Red is a stern father who rarely smiles. Many of the comedic aspects of the show stem from the relationship the teenagers have with the parents. They have to jump through a lot of slapstick comedy loops to try and evade the watch of their parents. A lot of these loops end in disaster and the teenagers get caught.
In these instances, Red serves his catchphrase that he will stick his foot up someone’s butt. The catchphrase is repeated many times throughout the show, but the script changes the wording enough that the catchphrase is unique and creative every time it is said. The execution of the catchphrase is also carried out very well by the actor who plays Red, Kurtwood Smith.
Setting: The setting takes place mainly at Kitty and Red’s house, but we see the teenagers travel to restaurants, concerts, and more throughout the show. The set is representative of the time the show is taking place and is relevant to the location in the suburbs as well.
Many of the actors who play the teenagers in the show had just began their careers, however it does not reflect much in the show. The character of Donna, played by Laura Prepon, is mainly the only instance where the lack of experience is shown through the portrayal of the character. Donna is a smart, chill girl, but sometimes her character is played to be dull and boring rather than laidback and intelligent.
Apart from this, the acting in the show was such a success that a few of the actors, such as Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher, went on to star in movies.
Final thoughts: The production in this show accurately reflects the adventures of teenagers in the ‘70s and what they would have talked like and dressed like. It conveys a solid plot that flows and develops throughout the show with each relationship and personality changing and growing. Along with the somewhat complex plot, the show still offers plenty of comedic relief and lots of laughs that continue to attract a multitude of viewers.
