THE PLOT THUS FAR
A drama series set at an American base during the Vietnam War. Rather than focusing on the battle scenes that made up most other portrayals of the war, this show looked at the everyday lives of the people sent to serve their country. The doctors, nurses, soldiers and even USO entertainers stationed at the base must try to come to terms with the horrors and stresses of the war around them. Not all of them succeed.
WHAT WE THOUGHT
“China Beach” is a strong show, but still carries a hint of being slightly dated. Dana Delaney head-lined a strong cast that spent its four year run developing characters rather than fostering political statements about the Vietnam War. Ricki Lake shows up this year as part of her transition into a serious actress. Four years later, she’d be a talk show host. Two years later, she’d be in “Mrs. Winterbourne”. It’s nice to see talented actresses before it all went downhill. Speaking of downhill, let’s gloss over the flashback episode. If there’s one thing you don’t do with Vietnam Vets, it’s give them a reason to flashback.
The show’s third season starts with McMurphy getting captured by the VietCong and everything fails to live up to it. Sure, I prefer the final season, but I felt like we needed a better transition to that point in time rather than the rush job we got here. I don’t get why Season 2 was so willing to go into the future and examine serious issues, then this season dials it back. John Wells was still involved with the show. Did he lose control or something? If I ever get the chance to interview him, I’ll ask.
The DVD comes with interviews, deleted scene, gag reel and commentaries. The A/V Quality is strong enough for a show shot in the 1980s. However, the fact that it shot on film rather than video helps the transfer to stand out. Plus, the Dolby Surround track helps to remind you that it’s still a wartime show. In the end, I’d recommend a purchase to fans.
RELEASE DATE: 05/06/14