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Reviews
Theodore Tugboat (1993)
Well worth seeing
Contrary to the opinion of some reviewers, Theodore Tugboat was a well done, well executed children's show that was spell binding in its own way. Dennis Doherty, the late member of the rock band the Mamas and the Papas, did quite well as the voice of all the characters on the show, particularly the Harbormaster, who introduced each show.
Done on a relatively small budget, the show provided children with opportunities to confront their own inner demons (such as dealing with feelings of loneliness) by watching how the on-screen characters interacted in "the Big Harbor" - based the real life Halifax Harbor in Nova Scotia. A non-violent alternative to the space wars genre of Saturday morning children's television, the show eventually appeared in some 80 countries and was still in syndication in 2006.
Having worked on children's programs in the industry for some years - and having my interest in television piqued by appearing on children's programs as a child myself - I found Theodore Tugboat to be a worthy addition to the family of such luminaries as Captain Kangaroo and Shari Lewis. It's a plus for families and a don't miss bet for your kids!
Barney Miller (1975)
A classic for the generations
"Barney Miller" showed the gritty realism of police work in New York City in the 1970s, albeit with humor. Skits about the impending bankruptcy of the city, some of the futile criminal behavior (man stuck inside ductwork trying to burglarize a store), the mundane day in, day out existence of police officers with the occasional heart-pounding, adrenalin rush of excitement, and of course, what we in the profession called "the hairbags" - the old cops, forever full of stories, content to live in the past as Inspector Lugar exemplifies. To those who say "Barney Miller" is dated, I say the show is a timeless slice of life, and can be set in almost any locale and time period. The cast could not have been picked with any more brilliance, and the production was seamless. I say "Barney Miller" is a classic for the generations.
What Sex Am I? (1985)
A Sensitive Treatment of a Sensitive Subject
Lee Grant once again proves her worth as actress, producer and director in a career that stretches back 40 years in this very sensitive look at an issue many people refuse to even acknowledge, transgenderism.
Through interviews with transgendered people... and yes, these are people, not 'things' or 'its'... and following one woman through her life's experiences leading up to sexual reassignment surgery, Grant treats this subject with care, concern and sensitivity lacking in many other productions.
For those people who are transgendered, this is an excellent movie about you, as real people. For those who are curious, it is a learning tool. For those who care about other human beings, it is a must-see, not unlike certain recommended readings from high school and college.