Home Improvement-Finale (Video) MPAA Rating: PG Entertainment: +2 Content: +1

When HOME IMPROVEMENT, one of Americas favorite family sit-coms, ended its run on ABC, it was the end of an era on TV. Few show before or since have achieved the same combination of humor, family values, and quality of programming on network television. Now, loyal viewers of the ABC TV show can own the final episode on video. Disney Home Video has made available this 90 minute finale, with footage of the last touching and funny episode with the Taylor family. Also included are some behind the scenes shots, a final farewell, and several minutes of outtakes that have never been seen before. When Tool Time gets turned into a sleezy talk show by the new producer, Tim, his assistant Al, and other staff decide to quit. At the same time Jill is offered a new dream job in Indiana. When Jill approaches Tim about it, he dismisses the idea of moving. But in typical Tim Taylor fashion, after seeking the advice of nextdoor neighbor Wilson, Tim realizes he hasnt been very fair to Jill. And so they discuss the possibility of picking up and moving to Indiana. After all, Tim doesnt have his job at Tool Time anymore. Or does he? If youre a fan of HOME IMPROVEMENT, this final episode home video will bring back a lot of fun memories of the shows eight year run.

Characteristic of the show, several scenes involve accidents with Tim at home and on the Tool Time set, including explosions, property destruction, electrocutions, Tim falling and getting burned. But this is all done in a slapstick style. Somewhat uncharacteristic of the show, however, are some mild obscenities during one of the Tool Time episodes. And, especially in the outtakes, some of the comedy is crude or of a mildly suggestive nature. Also, two women kiss in a comical behind the scenes shot, but no lesbian relationship is implied. And at Als wedding Wilson performs the ceremony as a minister of the Order of the Celestial Moon, presumably a made up religion. This portrayal of a fictional new age religion is somewhat disturbing, but the scene is brief and presented comically. With some suggestive comedy and a few mild obscenities, the HOME IMPROVEMENT finale on home video just barely wins our approval for older children and adults.

Preview Reviewer: Cliff McNeely
Distributor: Buena Vista/Disney Home Entertainment, 350 S. Buena Vista St., Burbank, CA 91521