Other than Freaks and Geeks, I can't think of television show (or movie, for that matter) that more accurately captures the look and feel of the time better than Look Around You. The BBC program ran from 2002 to 2005, and it's basically a homage to educational films and programs from this time period. What makes it so fantastic? If fulfills the two requirements you need to have when doing a "period piece" centering on decades of the mid to late 20th century:
1. Do not beat the audience over the head with the time period. If it's the 70s, don't have every actor in gigantic platform shoes and bell bottoms. If it's set in the 60s, don't have everyone dressed like hippies, etc. It's a matter of being subtle, but at the same time, all encompassing (if that makes sense). It's not an easy thing to achieve.
2. Attention to detail. Look Around You has the hair, the film quality, and the color schemes down perfectly. Simply put - it looks authentic.
As I mentioned, Freaks and Geeks is another example of a late twentieth century period piece done right. The only other TV shows that I can think of that successfully pulled it off are Mad Men and The Wonder Years. Ones that did not get it done include: Happy Days, Laverne and Shirley, Wonder Woman, That 70s Show, Everybody Hates Chris, Oliver Bean (2003), and (choke) That 80's Show.
What movies are the best and worst examples of late twentieth century period pieces? Sounds like an idea for another post. Spoiler alert: Dazed and Confused will be topping the best list.
