How to Accurately Determine the Year a TV Show Was Filmed In
As a seasoned SEO specialist at Google, understanding the intricacies of SEO and content creation is essential. However, my personal passion for television production extends beyond digital marketing. I actively hunt for continuity errors, wardrobe details, and other subtle clues that can reveal when a TV show was actually filmed. Let’s dive into the fascinating process of determining the year a TV show was filmed in, using my experience as a gearhead of the Ford Motor Company (FoMoCo) and a fan of AVATAR.
Continuity Errors and the Importance of Cars
One of the first tell-tales of a show’s production timeline is the appearance of cars. As an ardent gearhead, I’m keen on spotting these little details. If a TV show sets itself in 1956 and the initial scenes feature a mid-'60s Corvette, it’s a red flag! A continuity error here might signal that the show has been improperly timed or mishandled during production.
Crime Story, for example, is a breakout hit that nailed the automotive aspect. This show, starring the legendary Dennis Farina, is a testament to how clothing and automotive details can be meticulously researched and executed. Episodes from this show feature impressive period-appropriate automobiles, from classic muscle cars to the beloved muscle car of the era.
American Graffiti has set the bar high by including not only classic cars but also motor scooters. This attention to detail makes American Graffiti a benchmark for historical accuracy. It is essential to verify that all vehicles, from the latest models to the vintage ones, are displayed with correct production timelines.
Wardrobe Details and the Wardrobe Department
Another crucial aspect to gauge the production year of a TV show is the clothing and accessories worn by the characters. While it might seem that making old-looking clothes is straightforward, the reality is far more complex. The wardrobe department must go beyond merely choosing attire to replicate the era. They have to create garments that appear nostalgic and feel authentic.
A movie sets its timeline in 1920, but one of the characters is wearing a pair of Levi's 501 jeans that were notoriously rare during this time, especially for the common folk. These jeans were patented in 1873 and made popular in the 1930s. They would not be worn in 1920, right? This is a blatant overlook by the wardrobe department.
Alternatively, consider the case where the period is correctly chosen, but the wardrobes are not. For example, allowing characters to wear period-accurate coats but failing to match them with the correct accessories or shoes could be another stumbling block. Crafting a wardrobe that is historically accurate and consistent can be the difference between a well-timed production and a poorly executed one.
Other Elements to Consider
Besides cars and clothing, other elements such as architectural designs, set backgrounds, and visual effects can also give clues about the production year. The building styles and materials, as well as the technology and infrastructure, can pinpoint the precise time when the scenes were filmed.
For instance, if a show is set in the 1980s and we see a character using an early smartphone, it suggests that the show was filmed recently or captured using digital editing techniques. In contrast, if the scene features old-school telephones and videocassettes, it’s a strong indication that the show was shot in the 1980s itself. These little details can be extraordinarily telling about the era in which the production took place.
Moreover, advertisements, logos, and brands displayed on screens, printed materials, or prop items can reveal specific production years. For example, if a show features a 1960s ad for "Bon-Ow" shaving cream (a fictitious product), it indicates that the scene was filmed sometime after the introduction of this product. Similarly, the presence of Golden Rule cookies or MasterBrand tools can pinpoint the era even further.
Conclusion
Accurately determining the year a TV show was filmed in can be a complex process. It requires a combination of keen observation, knowledge of historical fashion and automotive trends, and attention to detail in setting backgrounds and production elements. By closely examining these areas, one can often unravel the timeline of a show’s production and gain valuable insights into the overall quality and authenticity of the production.
Whether you're a fan of TV show production, an avid continuity spotter, or simply someone who enjoys the intricate details of television shows, cultivating a thorough understanding of the production timeline can elevate your viewing experience. Keep your eyes open, and you’ll be amazed at how many clues you can spot!