Small Wonder Comes to DVD for the First Time on February 16

During the mid-1980's, cable television networks, desperate for material to fill their schedules, prompted the creation of first-run syndication. Previously the home of recycled network shows, the syndicated market now provided an outlet for first run-shows, such as Suzanne Somers' down-home comedy "She's the Sheriff." Syndication also gave Scott Baio's "Charles in Charge," which had been canceled during its initial network run, a second chance at life.

One of the most fondly remembered syndicated shows from that time period is "Small Wonder," an original comedy about a robot masquerading as a little girl. On February 16, 2010, the first season of "Small Wonder" will be released for the first time on DVD, complete with bonus features and commentaries from some of the stars.

"Small Wonder" was a big hit in first-run syndication

In "Small Wonder," actor Dick Christie plays Ted Lawson, an overachieving robotics engineer who creates the next generation of androids. Ted's boss, however, ignores his invention, a device that Ted calls a "Voice Input Child Identicant (V.I.C.I.)".

Determined to perfect his creation, Ted brings the robot home and makes her a part of his family. His wife Joan (Marla Pennington) keeps thinking that the robot, now called Vickie (Tiffany Brissette), is a real little girl. Son Jamie (Jerry Supiran), on the other hand, is happy to have a sister and a robot that can do his chores and math homework. Unfortunately, Vickie takes all verbal commands literally and is stronger than 10 men, making her especially hard on doors.

The Lawsons also have annoying neighbors next door, and young Harriet (Emily Schulman) spends many of the early episodes peeping through the window to see why Vicki acts so strangely. The fabulously funny Edie McClurg plays Harriet's mom, a woman who can con a free dinner out the Lawson's before they realize what's happening.

Tiffany Brissette really was a small wonder in real life

Only 10 years old during the first season of "Small Wonder," actress Tiffany Brissette gave Vickie her odd robotic personality. Brissette's part required her to be part mime and part mimic, imitating the things that her human family would do. Brissette also spent the majority of the first season speaking in an unemotional monotone, a chore for any actor.

Camera tricks and wire work put the wonder in "Small Wonder"

Computer animation is common in 2010, but in 1985, the year that "Small Wonder" debuted, camera tricks and wire harnesses helped Vickie perform her amazing stunts. When she has to lift Jamie in one scene, for instance, it's obvious that actor Jerry Supiran is suspended by wires, but the gag is still rather funny 25 years later. During the numerous times that Vickie malfunctions, the camera also speeds up or slows down, giving the impression that the robot is running out of control.

The complete first season of "Small Wonder" coming to DVD

The upcoming "Small Wonder" DVD set is like a miniature time capsule from the 1980's. Ted Lawson was working on cutting edge robotics at the time, but the technology he used seems primitive by today's standards. In one of the earlier episodes, Vicki even imitates Michael Jackson's unique dancing style. At the time of the series, Jackson was at the height of his popularity, with major hits like "Thriller" and "Bad" dominating the album charts.

Marla Pennington, who had a featured role on the edgy 1970's comedy soap, also gets to show off some of the more popular 1980's fashions for ladies. During the commentary for the "Small Wonder" pilot episode, Pennington says the jumpsuit she wears on camera is the same one she wore to the set on the day of filming.

"Small Wonder: The Complete First Season" will be released on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at suggested retail price of $34.99.