It’s About Time Television Show: A Prehistoric Comedy Adventure
“It’s About Time,” a fantasy comedy series that aired from 1966 to 1967, was the brainchild of Sherwood Schwartz, the creative genius behind iconic shows like “Gilligan’s Island” and “The Brady Bunch.” The show, which ran for 26 episodes, followed a similar premise to “Gilligan’s Island,” featuring a group of travelers thrown off course and stranded in a prehistoric jungle setting. Absurdist plots and humorous situations ensued as the characters navigated their unfamiliar environment. The show even shared some sets, props, and music with “Gilligan’s Island,” further solidifying its connection to Schwartz’s previous work.
Jack Mullaney starred in the series, often displaying goofy characteristics reminiscent of Gilligan, complete with similar sayings and actions. Joe E. Ross, known for his rugged appearance and primal humor, was perfectly cast as Gronk. Imogene Coca, a talented comedic actress, played Shag/Shad, although her role felt somewhat underutilized despite her consistently strong performance. The casting of Mike Mazurki and Cliff Norton further enhanced the show’s comedic ensemble, with Norton portraying the authoritative caveman boss.
The show’s premise, centered around time travel and the clash of cultures between modern man and prehistoric cavemen, was undeniably unique. While the writers occasionally struggled to expand upon this concept, “It’s About Time” still managed to generate humor from the fish-out-of-water scenarios and the characters’ attempts to adapt to a life one million years in the past. Frank Aletter and Jack Mullaney initially led the series, but the established comedic prowess of Imogene Coca and Joe E. Ross eventually shifted the focus towards their characters. Despite some repetitive storylines, the show delivered moments of genuine absurdity and laughter.
The series employed simple yet effective matte shots to transport viewers to the prehistoric era, enhancing the visual experience. “It’s About Time” frequently relied on witty dialogue and situational comedy for its humor, embracing a lighthearted and silly tone that appealed to family audiences, particularly children. The show’s absurdity, when embraced, contributed significantly to its overall entertainment value.
“It’s About Time” even dared to reverse the roles, sending the cavemen to the 20th century in a later attempt to boost the show’s ratings. While this creative decision highlighted the show’s willingness to experiment, it ultimately couldn’t prevent its premature cancellation. Despite its short run, “It’s About Time” remains a quirky and entertaining example of 1960s television comedy, showcasing Sherwood Schwartz’s talent for creating memorable and humorous situations.
