Don Rickles is better than the rest of the hockey pucks.
“Mr. Warmth” is a Time Life Compilation of the complete CPO Sharkey run and Don Rickles’ TV specials. “The Don Rickles TV Specials” arrives with Volume 1. The dude worked his ass off on the big three networks throughout the 70s, so we’re probably going to get two more volumes. The first volume sports his 1970-1972 fare, as Rickles plays around with the format and brings out a ton of guest stars. The CBS and ABC specials are presented uncut for the first time. By the time that Harvey Korman shows up, you’ll know what you’re getting. The second volume is more of the same, but with movie spoofs.
“CPO Sharkey: The Complete First Season” is a dramedy that lasted for about two seasons and nothing ever came together. It’s a late era Norman Lear rip-off and Rickles works his ass off to make it work. What sucks is the fact that nothing ever comes together for him. The supporting cast never can match his intensity and they seem to be a little too starstruck. It happens sometimes and you feel that Rickles gives up towards the end. If that wasn’t enough, they work the timely references to Disco to produce some jokes. It never quite comes together.
Naturally, the show died early in March 1978 with this second season. I’ve got to give it to NBC for sticking it out this long. The most famous thing about the show is when Johnny Carson broke onto the set to give Rickles grief for his guest host spot. Everything else belongs to the domain of obscure TV trivia.
The DVD comes with outtakes, the famous Tonight Show clip and a ton of historical tidbits as the special features. The A/V Quality is on par with the individual releases. The transfers look clean for standard definition. However, the Dolby tracks keep everything upfront. In the end, I’d recommend a purchase to fans.
RELEASE DATE: 10/20/2015
