Hosted by Ira Glass, the original host of the public radio show this television show is based on, This American Life is a unique mix of documentary, reality TV, scripted drama/comedy and social commentary.  Each 30 minute episode has a handful of true life stories that tie together to fit into the certain theme of the episode.  The first season of the show which runs on Showtime is only six episodes long.

CRITIQUE

This American Life is an extraordinary, strange and fascinating show that somehow manages to capture that unique and inventive spirit of the radio show and successfully transition it into a viable and entertaining television show.  Transitioning shows through different mediums (radio to TV, TV to film, TV to internet, etc.) a majority of the time ends in disaster, but this is a qualified success. 

The visuals are outstanding in the show.  Each shot is expertly and purposely done to enhance the theme or the mood.  This is one of the best looking shows I’ve ever seen on what is obviously a very small budget.  It has a vibrant, striking look to it that is perfect for a nice, widescreen plasma TV.

As gorgeous as it looks, the true heart of this show is the storytelling and the interweaving of various tales lending themselves to an overriding theme.  And the stories here are remarkably well told and completely fascinating. 

There are so many interesting small stories it’s hard to pick out any particular stand-outs but if I had to pick the most interesting it would be the rancher who tries to replace his beloved bull or the Chicago hot dog stand where you are basically berated just for the sheer enjoyment of it.  These two stories (and almost all of their stories) start with a simple concept like what I just wrote and evolve into a layered tale weaving in many substantial issues and emotions that you never saw coming.

And the show is brilliantly pieced together by host Ira Glass who is as much of a character as any of the ones in the stories.  Glass has a great, deadpan delivery that is hilarious and works seamlessly with the show’s themes and concepts.

The only big downside here is the brevity.  There are only six 30-minute episodes included and basically no extras.      

THE VIDEO

The anamorphic widescreen transfer looks outstanding for such a small budget feel.  The colors are strikingly vibrant and rich, there are no grain issues that are noticeable and the detail is impeccable. 

THE AUDIO

The audio is presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound and the presentation is adequate if not spectacular.  The dialogue is clear and the surround sounds fine in the limited sequences you hear it. 

THE EXTRAS

As far as extras go, there isn’t much.  In fact, there is really only one thing: an audio commentary on the first episode featuring Glass and director Chris Wilcha.  It is a good 30 minute commentary where they discuss the transition from radio to TV and the struggles in making it successful.  Definitely worth listening to for fans of the radio show or this show.

FINAL THOUGHTS

This American Life is a truly unique and entertaining television show that successfully transitions the public radio show’s wonderful story weaving and fascinating glimpses into the lives of ordinary (and yet extraordinary) Americans.  The show is visually arresting and always compelling.  The only downside here is the lack of material.  There are only six episodes and a small commentary track here, so even though I highly recommend it, I can’t say it’s a good buy.