My review was written in February 1989 after watching the show on HBO video cassette.
HBO's docu on the 25th anniversary Sports Illustrated swimsuit salute is an entertaining program likely to attain collectible status in its home video incarnation, timed to coincide with cablecasting and the mag's publication.
Filmmakers Albert Maysles and Susan Froemke (latter was associate producer of the Maysles Bros.' classic 1975 docu "Grey Gardens") adopt a format quite similar to the Playboy video calendars, also distributed by HBO Video, showing top models in far-flung locations on photo shoots. Key difference (as trumpeted on the video packaging) is "no nudity", yet the SI policy of mini-bathing suits and plenty of wet t-shirt action provides the same voyeur appeal as Playboy efforts.
Focus is on Julie Campbell, SI senior editor who has shepherded the 25 editions. She's caught by a verite camera at work and shown to be involved in every aspect of the still photo production, from buying and selecting accessories for the models to directing the array of renowned still photographers.
Of the beauties on screen, Carol Alt is the most articulate, keenly aware of her job. Kathy Ireland won the 25th cover slot, but the level of photogenic qualities of models and photos indicates this was an arbitrary decision, despite the video's weak attempt to drum up suspense and a sense of competition here.
Lack of dramatics keeps thi easy-to-watch program from becoming an exciting documentary, with a rainbow coming out during Alt's Hawaii shoot or some wild animals getting a little bit too close when Christie Brinkley is photographed in Kenya emerging as oddest moments.
Video is longer than the HBO cablecast version, padded pleasantly with two music videos of the gals posing or in outtakes, plus a couple of Dodge commercials.
