by Mike Favila, Editor

To some, Mad Men was the beginning of the ascent of network AMC.  Though most often known as the home of The Walking Dead, Mad Men really began AMC’s name as a home for original programming, not just Rock Hudson reruns.  I had heard from my friends what an amazing show it was, but was slow to catch on.  The first season was a bit slow for my taste, and took a little time to get used to.  That being said, the slow burn that’s often associated with this series is part of its charm.  With the release of the complete series box set, and this final half, Mad Men The Final Season Part 2, now is the perfect time to binge watch and blitz through this series.

Though the series had hit a bit of a slump in the sixth season, Mad Men The Final Season Part 2 represents a strong return to form.  I don’t think anybody would accuse Mad Men of being one of those tv shows that just treaded water trying to hit syndication, but they truly pull out all the stops for this last round.  From the first minutes of this last half of the season you can already tell that, to some degree, everybody is starting something over, even if their storylines are ending.

The tone that Mad Men The Final Season Part 2 strikes wrapping up each character’s arc is not obvious, or saccharine.  To some degree, everybody falls somewhere in the middle when gauged on the scale of happiness.   At the most tragic, we see a brave acceptance from Betty and her children.  Pete finds his second chance at redemption, even if he doesn’t really deserve it.  Peggy does the safe thing for one part of her life, but takes the plunge on the other side.   Joan finally defines her own happiness, independent of any man (good or not).  Much like life, the results vary.

Obviously the centerpiece of the show, as well as the ending, is Don Draper’s final moments on screen.  There has been much discussion about what his smile means, both from the audience and the creators and participants themselves.  Jon Hamm gave his two cents, as did creator Matthew Weiner.  But Mad Men The Final Season Part 2 itself is vivid and deep enough to let the viewers project their own conclusions on it, which is always a good sign of an endearing piece of art.

The special features are excellent in Mad Men The Final Season Part 2, and not only give the viewer perspective on the series, but the time period in which the series resided.  While I do enjoyed listening to some of the audio commentaries, I have to confess that that I’m probably not enough of an uberfan to get into the little details.  This is sacrosanct, I know, but as a Gen Y’er, I’m a little loose on my Baby Boomer info.  This featurette is a godsend for context.  Earth Day 1970 was fascinating in tying in the hippie movement with a more complete awareness of the planet’s natural resources.  The Advertisting Timeline is useful, if not a little dryer.

Though Mad Men has been elevated to the high hills with praise, don’t let that detract from a worthwhile viewing experience.  All the accolades are true, but that doesn’t mean Mad Men is some stuffy, difficult to process work.  If you’re looking for a good show to watch an episode (or six) at a time,  this is a great place to start.  Rarely does a show finish strongly out of the gates, but Mad Men The Final Season Part 2 holds its own.

Rating: ComicsOnline.com gives Mad Men The Final Season Part 2 5 out of 5 midday martinis!