Bobby was a bit before my time. As a young child of the 70's I can remember the plethora of TV variety shows before the days of cable. However, I was only familiar with Darin by hearing "Splish Splash" during commercials tauting "The Best of the 50's" record compilations. So, it wasn't until his son Dodd Darin, produced a PBS special in 1998 on the life of his Dad that I understood the man and his talent. So, I'm rather new to this Darin fandom, and have made room in my indie/alt.rock/folkie/rock Gen X-er CD collection for a bit of Bobby D (gladly next to another favorite Bobby D - Mr. Dylan.)
This DVD of Bobby Darin's last TV performance (uncut) shows him during an era where polyester ruled. In fact, anyone from age 10 to 30 at that time ran for the hills at the sight of someone like Darin in his tux, bowtie and lavelier microphone. Back then, if it didn't have denim, long hair and looked like Robert Plant - forget it. Bobby looked corny in this taping, but please - the whole 1970's were cheezy, so don't blame him for glitzying it up. The only thing is - there was so much more to him that the glitz. Knowing this, it's good to be open minded to the dazzle of such a performance, and just let oneself go with the Bobby flow...comb over, frills and all in this DVD. It's the style of an era long gone, and worth watching.
I found this uncut variety show a hoot to watch. You see all the errors and banter that would be edited for air. Bobby was the ultimate showbiz performer with a spectacular voice, sweet face and a nice rear-end if I must say, but the performance does have some cringe inducing moments. The chatter is fun and the songs are cool. However, when you see him try to get down and be funky, he gives comedian and comedic musicians - from Paul Schaffer to Bill Murray - fodder for their Vegas-y, showbizzy parodies.
Still, he looks like he's having a blast. It's amazing how energetic and well he looked for a man who sadly had to run off stage to take a hit off an oxygen tank during live shows. I was disappointed that he did a bit too much vamping during a gorgeous song like "Beyond the Sea". I will say, his self deprecating humor and honesty with the audience was refreshing. Too bad he didn't shed the toupe and bowtie for a more down to earth version of himself in this show. And what a shame he died so soon after. It would be wonderful to have him around today.
This DVD has some nice special features of Bobby's various television appearances, film trailers and comedy sketches. So, there's more to feast on. Bobby deserves to be remembered, and although there are some moments that don't soar, it's worthwhile to hear those golden chops, and see that smiling face one last time.
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