If there was ever a period show that did it right, it’s ‘That 70’s Show.’ Pretty much everything about the half hour comedy is accurate to the tee. The Jimmy Carter era sitcom captures the mood of a post WW2 and Korea War golden age of American success. Hard Rock ‘N Roll was prevalent. With bands like KISS and Aerosmith dominating the counter culture scene. Those two acts, along with many others, makes ‘That 70’s Show’ one of the great Rock ‘n Roll shows.
‘That 70’s Show’ takes place between the fall of 1976 and New Years Eve of 1979. During one of the peaks of domestic American glory. The World War II and Korean Vets, who were hardened by the spectacle of mankind’s most brutal habits raised a generation that benefitted greatly from their hard work. And the WWII point of view is shown best displayed with Red Forman, played by Kurtwood Smith. The father of not only the show’s protagonist, Eric Forman, but basically the entire crew that surrounds him.
But what makes the show truly kick ass is the music and hard rock guest stars that show up through out the series. Cheap Trick performs the theme song, ‘Out In the Streets.’ A perfect choice considering the show takes place in the imaginary ‘Point Place’ Wisconsin. Cheap Trick, of course, being from Rockford, Illinois. Other excellent guests include Gene Simmons during a Halloween special. Alice Cooper who has a sit down in the ‘circle.’ And Ted Nugent appears in season three when Donna gets back stage while working for the local radio station. On top of that the gang have tried to get into more than one Led Zeppelin show. Not to mention all the guest music spots such as the famous Judas Priest bit.
Yes, ‘That 70’s Show’ displays a perfect portrait of suburban, midwest life in during the 70’s. Innocence, weed, teenage angst and most importantly rock n roll are the themes that surround the show. On top of it also having strong family and friend morals. And it’s just simply well written. So remember to get out there and ‘slay that dragon!’
