Tanner '88

Tanner '88 is a pioneering mockumentary series from the mind of Robert Altman, the acclaimed director of "Nashville" and "M*A*S*H," and eminent political cartoonist Garry Trudeau, best known for creating the satirical comic strip "Doonesbury." Originally aired in 1988, the series imagines a fictitious political campaign during the real-life American presidential election that year and focuses on candidate Jack Tanner, captivatingly portrayed by Michael Murphy.

The premise of Tanner ’88 is a clever fusion of the imaginings of Trudeau and Altman with real-world politics. Altman’s renowned innovative filmmaking and Trudeau’s sharp satirical humor bring to life the character of Jack Tanner, a liberal Democrat running for President during the tumultuous 1988 election. Illuminating the chaotic world of American politics in a way that is as alarmingly truthful as it is comically exaggerated, Tanner ’88 takes audiences on a journey through the highs and lows, triumphs and trials of a political campaign.

Tanner '88 encompasses all the colorful dynamics of a fierce election battle, yet it's deeply grounded in the personal narrative of the earnest and likable Jack Tanner. The titular character is a congressman from Michigan who ventures into the labyrinth of the national political landscape. He emerges as a compelling everyman, one whose genuine concern for moral integrity and public welfare markedly contrasts with the landscape of political cynicism that engulfs him. Aided by his ambitious campaign manager T.J. Cavanaugh, played wonderfully by Pamela Reed, Tanner fights his way through primaries, hoping to secure his party's nomination.

One of the most exciting elements of Tanner '88 is its groundbreaking blending of fiction and reality. Altman and Trudeau employed a team of cameramen who captured the energy and fervor of real political campaigns, weaving this material seamlessly into the fictional world of Jack Tanner. This blending reaches thrilling peaks when Tanner and his team interact with actual political figures of the time. The audience will catch glimpses of several recognizable faces such as Bob Dole, Jesse Jackson, and Gary Hart. It offers viewers an intimate, surreal look behind the political curtain, revealing the underpinnings, calculations, and paradoxes that ultimately shape American democracy.

The show is notable for its approach to political satire, deftly balancing its humorous and critical aspects without descending into cheap mockery or scathing cynicism. Instead, Tanner '88 emerges as a thoughtful manifestation of both skepticism and optimism regarding American political processes. It stresses the importance of substance over style, examining the media's influence in shaping public opinion and questioning the priorities of those participating in the political spectacle.

Stylistically, the series captures Altman's distinctive aesthetics. Like his other works, Tanner '88 employs a documentary-like, cinema verité style that enhances the credibility and authenticity of the fiction within. The overlapping dialogue, quick cuts, and dynamic camera work transport the audience into the midst of the political chaos while also providing a commentary on the theatrical nature of election campaigns.

Michael Murphy's portrayal of Jack Tanner is noteworthy for its depth. He effectively conveys the character's struggle as he attempts to maintain his values amidst the complex calculus of political ambition and compromise. At the same time, Pamela Reed's career-defining performance as T.J. Cavanaugh reflects the tough, practical force that often propels political campaigns forward. Their performances, coupled with a strong ensemble cast, create a nuanced portrait of the American political machine.

Even as Tanner ’88 remains rooted in the specific cultural and political climate of the late ’80s, it continues to resonate thanks to its timeless commentary on the nature of politics, media, and public image. Its unique blend of satire, realism, and comedy, combined with the performances of Murphy and Reed, make this series an innovative classic.

Tanner ’88 is a part of the esteemed Criterion Collection since it exemplifies exceptional filmmaking while providing a deep exploration of American culture. The show's powerful fusion of fiction and reality, humor, and political insight makes it a unique piece of television history that foretold the future of hybridized fictional television. It remains ever relevant, serving as a must-watch for viewers interested in politics, history, and high-quality satirical drama.