17 Nov Book Review of It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time: The Worst TV Sho…
It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time: A Hilarious Look at TV Blunders by Bruce Vilanch
There’s something utterly captivating about the magic—and madness—of television history. When I stumbled upon It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time: The Worst TV Shows by Bruce Vilanch, I felt a wave of nostalgia and curiosity wash over me. Bruce has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for decades, and his knack for crafting comedy has left lasting impressions. As someone who grew up on a steady diet of quirky TV shows, I couldn’t resist diving into this blend of hilarity and behind-the-scenes revelations.
In this book, Vilanch takes us on a whimsical ride through the annals of television’s greatest flops—from the infamous Star Wars Holiday Special to the bizarre delights of The Paul Lynde Halloween Special. It’s not just a critique of misguided productions; it’s sprinkled with amusing anecdotes of his colorful career, filled with surprise appearances from icons such as Bette Midler and Robin Williams. I found myself chuckling as Vilanch candidly reflects on how he once helped create some of the worst shows in TV history,
Vilanch’s writing shines with a conversational tone that invites readers into his world. It feels like you’re sitting in a cozy café, sharing laughs over a cup of coffee. He shares stories with a wink, making it clear that reflecting on these so-called “turkeys” is both a labor of love and an exercise in good-natured humor. His wit and charm are infectious, and it’s impossible not to chuckle at his self-deprecating remarks and tongue-in-cheek observations.
One particularly memorable quote that tickled my funny bone was when he wrote, “Creating the worst shows in television … spilled over into helping create the worst shows in other media as well.” This acknowledgment that failure is often an integral part of the creative journey resonated with me deeply. It’s a reminder that greatness often stems from embracing our missteps—something all creators and dreamers can relate to.
Bruce’s insights paint a vivid picture of the chaotic atmosphere that often surrounds the entertainment industry. He navigates through casting dilemmas, creative tensions, and even the recreational habits of writers involved in these shows, with amusing anecdotes that truly bring the past to life. While the shows might be considered “dreck,” Vilanch’s joy in sharing these stories ignites a sort of cult appreciation for the absurdity and nostalgia tied to them.
I found myself inspired to revisit some of these infamous productions on YouTube, and the delightful cringe of watching them unfold was a nostalgic treat. It’s astounding how these “bad” shows can evoke a unique charm that’s both entertaining and oddly comforting.
In conclusion, Vilanch’s It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time is a delightful read for anyone with a sense of humor or curiosity about television history. It’s a charming exploration of the flipside of showbiz—the pokey side that churned out clunkers worthy of a good laugh and a love letter to the trials of creativity. Whether you’re curious about the journey of a comedy writer or someone who simply enjoys banter about the entertainment industry, this book is a must-read that will leave you smiling.
Thanks to Netgalley, Bruce Vilanch, and Chicago Review Press for a copy of this delightful book! If you love a good story about the craziness of TV history, this one is certainly for you. You can check out more of my reviews at Reviews by Barb Saffer.
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