It's a known fact in life we all need help occasionally. This is another of my favorite documentary programs, it's also kind of a childhood gem which I saw when I was about eight years old. I'm usually I'm not into documentary programs depending on the subject matter but this show is one of the exceptions. This show was a hit at the time, and there really was nothing like it as this show was before we have the common place documentary shows on cable channels or streaming. Heck it was such a hit there was even a pinball game based on the show, which I played and is cool it's one of my favorite pinball games of all time, only disappointment William Shatner's vocals weren't in it.
Anyway, watching this now is interesting in a way makes this a history program as each of stories happened years ago. The reenactments are pretty good, I wouldn't say great as their not all too fanciful looking, but hey their reenactments what do you expect. But the fact they're not fanciful looking I feel adds to the realistic sensibility, a way of showing this isn't your typical TV show episode this is real life. Some would say there are a few stores that are a bit strange, and seem ridiculous, but we live in a strange world so it happens and as an old saying goes truth is stranger than fiction and who's to say it can't happen.
I really like William Shatner as a host, yes, I'm a "Star Trek" fan, but other than that I thought it was cool seeing him do something different, and it's fitting as he role of Captain Kirk is one of high authority. His voice just fits like a glove, here he really tells things at they are in all seriousness. I love the theme song which is one of my favorite themes, it's kind of an exciting them but with a touch of seriousness, but the theme felt right as it sang out how help is always on the way.
The show is suspenseful, thought it's true that you can easily predict the 911 rescuers will come through in the end, but the suspense is wondering how, and no one really comes out unscathed which once again shows how truly dangerous the situations are. It was also cool seeing the police and other emergency workers in action, it's also educational in seeing what these people in this line of work have to do to defuse the bad situation, but also makes you grateful that we have services like this around.
I remember the home break in situations I'll admit we're the ones that made me the most nervous and I'll admit scary the mere thought of burglars breaking into your house unannounced. I couldn't help but be on the edge of my seat hoping the police will arrive on time.
Or even the fire situations hoping everyone got out let alone an entrapment situation or two which made me hope I never got into that. Despite how scary those stories can be sometimes, the show taught me a couple of important lessons as a kid which is how the world can be a dangerous place and these dangerous situations can happen to anyone. But also, the importance of calling for help when absolutely needed.
I personally wouldn't mind a revival of this show, I'd like to hear some of the stories going on right now. For a host I wouldn't mind seeing William do it again or maybe some other sci-fi alumni "Patrick Stewart, Michael Dorn, Kate Mulgrew." Yeah, I know long shots but an interesting though none the less and who's to say it shouldn't be considered. Overall if your into vintage documentary shows, ones that have to do with emergency services then this is worth dialing up. Just remember help is just a phone call away.
Rating: 4 stars
