Recently the History Channel released a whopping 14 disc collection of its popular and long-lasting series Modern Marvels. In it were random episodes from different points in its run but the unfortunate thing is that we haven't had a complete collection as of yet. Granted fans still have to wait but if you have the space on your DVD shelf there are still single volumes coming out that are worth adding to the collection. One of the more recent additions to the Modern Marvels series is the Air Shows episode.

Originally airing in 2001, Modern Marvels: Air Shows takes a look at the phenomenon that draws in upwards of eighteen million viewers each year. A staggering statistic to be sure, but even more so when you consider that edges it closer to the numbers of MLB game attendants. So what is it about the air show that draws people out in droves? For many it's a family event, some come to see skilled pilots rule the sky, and for others it's exciting just to see what technology is up to these days. When I was a kid it was all three that drew my family to the airfield and I have some fond memories of watching the Blue Angels in action during the late 80's. If you have ever been to a show then the Air Shows episode of Modern Marvels will undoubtedly peak your interest.

Like most Modern Marvels episodes, this one starts out with an introduction to the subject matter and a brief discussion on what it's all about. From there the history of the air show is revealed as it dates all the way back to France in 1909, which is when the first of its kind took place. A handful of years after the Wright Bothers took to the skies, inventors from around the world came together to improve upon the innovation and attempt to outdo those who came before them. Glenn Curtiss became a big competitor for the Wrights and it was his model, the "Jenny", that eventually was utilized during World War I.

After the war was over these planes were still in circulation and the masses wanted to see them in action. Some daring (or daft; it depends on your perspective) pilots took to the skies and performed harrowing acts that defied logic and good sense. These daredevils became known as Barnstormers and with the amount of planes in the air they had to constantly outdo each other in order to stay afloat. This contest turned deadly as more and more people were killed the process. Naturally that led to the government stepping in to regular flying by requiring licenses and safety standards on the planes themselves. These measures proved timely with the onset of World War II, but rather than get into that angle Air Shows talks about it leading to the formation of the Blue Angels.

The Angels changed the air show and crafted it into a profession from its humble beginnings. These Navy pilots performed stunts to the masses in the most modern of planes in an effort to inspire people to enlist in the armed forces. This inspired nations around the world to follow our example and conduct shows of their own with military pilots and aircraft. From here Air Shows goes on to talk about that influence and the other U.S. flight team, the Thunderbirds.

This discussion about teams such as the Blue Angels also allows from some fun behind the scenes moments from the squad bringing the Hornets to their hanger and even roundtable meetings about an event. The episode also spills out some of the details surrounding air shows that many may not even be familiar with such as range restrictions and the like. Some of the famous tricks are also examined and the science behind everything is revealed as well.

While my fascination with air shows has largely dissipated over the years as I grew old, I do have to say that the times I spend on the airfield with my family is something I'll never forget. Modern Marvels: Air Shows offers a somewhat limited, but nonetheless fascinating look at the form of entertainment. With details about the evolution of airplanes, the history behind the air shows, behind the scenes glimpses, and talk about different restrictions and maneuvers, this episode is definitely something to see for anyone who ever loved air shows. As with most Modern Marvel episodes, this one corners a niche market, but if you're interested then you'll definitely appreciate it.

Modern Marvels: Air Shows is presented on DVD with a full frame aspect ratio that mirrors the show's broadcast and other DVDs in the series. Like most documentary shows this one offers a mix of stock footage, field shots, and finely filmed interviews in a prepped setting. The result is a solid looking series without a lot of frills. The video is clean with only a little grain, there is some edge enhancement, and the picture has a tendency to be soft. With that being said the look of this show is very appropriate for the content and on par with other History Channel releases on DVD.

Modern Marvels: Air Shows comes with a 2.0 Dolby Digital stereo presentation that lives up to expectations. The quality is relatively flat but on par with what you'd hear from the show's broadcast. This being an educational/documentary type series there really isn't a need for something more robust or immersive so the audio is adequate enough for the material.

Like the other DVDs in the series there are no bonus features on this release.

At the end of the day Modern Marvels: Air Shows is another fine release for the series. This particular episode is a fun entry for the series because it allows for a wide variety of discussion from history to technology. There's quite a bit here for air show lovers to sink their teeth into in this episode. Modern Marvels hit the nail on the head with this one and it's definitely an interesting watch. Like many other individual releases for this series though, you could easily get by with a rental because there is not much re-watch value here and the runtime of the disc is under an hour.

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