The Television Program:

The plot sounds like something straight from an episode of The Twlight Zone. Anthony Perkins (Psycho) stars in Evening Primrose as a poet who decides to start his life over in a department store so that he can at last be alone and free of the burdens of society. The only problem he encounters with his idea is that there are many others doing the same exact thing already! These people have rules and expectations regarding who can and cannot join in their merry parade of sneaky livelihoods at the store. The poet sees fit to join this group nonetheless. However, he soon notices a lone young woman (Charmian Carr) who captures his attention and the two quickly begin a romance. "Fluffy" love stuff like that appears to be forbidden for those who dwell in the store as the 'leaders' of the movement seem to find pause with their brewing relationship. Can these two stay together and should they continue to stay within the confines of a department store or try and return to normal society? That very question is a main driving force throughout the program.

 Video:

How unfortunate... the video presentation is hardly eye-catching in the way you would want it to be. What is 'eye catching' is how bad the video quality looks. The back of the cover states this: "impeccably restored and re-mastered from a newly discovered kinescope print". While I cannot claim to be an expert in restoration, I'm doubtful of the "impeccable" nature of this special's restoration. The print is extremely soft, sometimes hazy looking, and features specks of what appears to be dirt or damage to the film. It is not that pleasing visually and will be underwhelming for most. It is also worth noting that this program originally aired in color and that no color versions of the film even exists anymore. That is quite a shame and obviously a disappointing aspect of this DVD release.

Audio:

The audio presentation fares about the same as the video does. While the voices can be heard clearly the overall presentation seems to not be in the best of shape. The sound design is a product of its time and I was disappointed in how the overall presentation seemed to have less restoration than I had anticipated. This mono soundtrack is merely serviceable.

Extras:

I should probably begin by stating just how surprised I was by the amount of extras included with this release. Not only is there an entertaining and informative 30 minute long interview with director Paul Bogart, there is also test footage (in color) of Anthology Perkins practicing for the role, and a new audio-only interview with Charmian Carr. Both interviews are enjoyable and essentials for fans of Evening Primrose.

Another added bonus is a 28 page long booklet with more information about Evening Primrose than I would have ever even thought to ask! It is honestly one of the most enjoyable and detailed booklets I have ever seen for a release outside of the Criterion Collection. It begins with an introduction by the Archive of American Television Director Karen L. Herman, continues with a note by Stephen Sondheim, features an in-depth essay on the entire production by Jane Klain, and rounds everything off with a reprint of the song lyrics.

Final Thoughts:

I was thoroughly entertained by this ABC Stage 67 broadcast production. It is essential viewing for any fan of the composer Stephen Sondheim. It is also quite fun for the unique performances by Anthony Perkins and Charmian Carr. This DVD release features a ton of interesting extras too. The Audio/Video presentation was disappointing but the quality of the content helped to make up for some of those shortcomings.

Recommended.

Neil Lumbard is a lifelong fan of cinema. He aspires to make movies and has written two screenplays on spec. He loves writing, and currently does in Texas.