Gomer Pyle U.S.M.C.: Season 1

 

 

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I had some very fond memories of The Gomer Pyle Show during its' run and I'm happy to say this first season set didn't disappoint in the least.
The years of its' initial run was a time when a plethora of military related shows graced the TV screens of homes throughout North America.Shows like Rat Patrol and Combat gave us the serious side of things while shows like McHales Navy(I'm anxiously awaiting THIS show to come out!) and of course this one the Gomer Pyle Show.
This show gave us an already familiar and likable character from the then popular Andy Griffith Show and put him into his own show.To make the transition more smooth for the TV audience they created an entire Griffith episode for just that purpose(included in this set..a VERY nice touch).From then on the producers and writers of the new show started to flesh out and create a totally lovable character in the form of new USMC recruit Pvt.Gomer Pyle.The able and very talented Jim Nabors rose to the occasion brilliantly and helped create one of the most memorable TV characters ever.Gomer could be a bumbler and pull some boners but his down home charm and sensibilities underscored the fact that he was far from stupid.He didn't have a mean bone in his body,always looked to the best inside everyone and did everything with the best of intentions.In other words a totally likable/lovable person.
Now of course to counter so much goodness there has to be a foil.And that took the form of one Sgt.Carter portrayed with great gusto and pinnache by Frank Sutton.His character was a 15 year decorated Korean career Marine vet and he played the tough as nails DI to a tee.But as tough and Marine as he was he did have a soft side and was always perplexed at why Gomer liked him.Even in the Sergeants' worst moments of Gomer-induced apoplexy(Frank Suttons' facial expressions have to be seen to appreciated!) we always knew that the sarge himself wasn't the sharpest tool in the shed sometimes either.
And throughout it all shone Gomers' innocence,his never say die spirit and his continual longing to always please the sergeant.
The two characters AND the two actors that help shape them were matches made in TV heaven.Wonderfully acted and beautifully executed these two men made the show the success it ultimately became and the reason it is remembered so fondly by so many.And of course these two were surrounded by a great stable of TV character actors and directors watched over by the benevolent Sheldon Leonard who is one of if not THE most prolific TV producer ever.
In conclusion a wonderful and memorable TV show is awaiting all who buy this great DVD set.The on screen chemistry and portrayals of principals Jim Nabors and Frank Sutton are a marvel to behold.The show promises much and delivers.The laughs are in abundance and again(as I point out in all my reviews re family oriented entertainment) if you are looking for a series the ENTIRE family can watch,enjoy and laugh with I can highly recommend this one.When was the last time you saw a program in recent years you could do THAT with??.......I can't hear you!!!??

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