Review | Johnny Carson: King of Late Night (Blu-ray)

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Plot: What’s it about?Video: How does it look?Audio: How does it sound?Supplements: What are the extras?

Plot: What’s it about?

In the field of television, few names have the same level of importance as Johnny Carson. Over three decades with well over four thousand episodes, Carson interviewed over twenty-three thousand guests on The Tonight Show. The biggest names in every field of entertainment wanted to be on his panel, so his shows were always loaded with star power and talent. In King of Late Night, we’re given a glimpse into Carson’s life and career, via interviews with an incredible assortment of those who knew, loved, and worked with Carson. Those involved include Mel Brooks, Jay Leno, Steve Martin, Bob Newhart, Jerry Seinfeld, David Letterman, Dick Cavett, Ray Romano, and countless others. As Carson was a very private person, fans will treasure the stories told in this program, about not just the television show host, but the man he was off the stage as well. With two hours of insightful interviews and exclusive home movies, King of Late Night offers a rare look at a true television icon.

As part of the American Masters series, Johnny Carson: King of Late Night is a well produced, insightful program. Fans of Carson will appreciate the behind the scenes stories and look at his personal life, while those not all that familiar with him can discover the true breadth of his talent. Kevin Spacey serves as narrator and the piece also includes interviews with over forty fellow late night hosts, film & television stars, and members of The Tonight Show’s staff. This is a loving, respectful look back on the life and career of one of television’s brightest stars. With immense comedic talent involved, you know the interviews aren’t just informative, but also fun to listen to. So as you’d expect from a Carson related program, you’ll laugh a lot as you watch King of Late Night. The amount of respect these performers have for Carson is immense, not to mention how many of them he inspired or influenced in both their professional and personal lives.

Video: How does it look?

King of Late Night is presented in 1.78:1 widescreen. This show looks terrific, with a clean, crisp visual presentation. The new interviews look better than the archival materials of course, but all of the footage looks good. The image is always sharp and especially the new interviews look superb. I saw no color or contrast issues whatsoever, leaving this to stand as one rock solid visual effort.

Audio: How does it sound?

The soundtrack is driven by dialogue and little else, so this stereo mix is more than sufficient. The narration sounds clear and at a proper volume, which is essential. The interviews sound crystal clear as well, with no volume issues or harshness concerns. The archival materials aren’t always up to that level, but the audio always performs well. So while mostly vocals, this soundtrack still delivers all that the material needs. This disc also includes English subtitles.

Supplements: What are the extras?

This disc includes footage from Kevin Spacey’s narration sessions, as well as a selection of interview outtakes.

Disc Scores

Plot: What’s it about?

Video: How does it look?

Audio: How does it sound?

Supplements: What are the extras?