The Lasting Impact Of M*A*S*H: A Journey Through Time And Themes

Younger generations may not fully comprehend just how massively popular the TV show M*A*S*H was back in the 70s and early 80s. For those of you who are scratching your heads, M*A*S*H aired 11 seasons on CBS between 1972 and 1983. The show was based on the 1970 movie of the same name, although the movie's title was stylized without the asterisks, simply "MASH". The title is an acronym that stands for "Mobile Army Surgical Hospital". Both the show and the movie are dark comedies that follow the simultaneously depressing and hilarious lives of a group of army doctors during the Korean War.

The movie was a smash hit for 20th Century Fox, earning $80 million at the box office (equal to $500 million after adjusting for inflation). The movie was nominated for five academy awards including Best Picture. It wound up winning just one, Best Adapted Screenplay. The subsequent TV show was also a smash hit. Whenever a list of the best TV shows of all time is released, M*A*S*H almost always appears in the top five. The show’s final episode, "Goodbye, Farewell and Amen", is still the most watched television event OF ALL TIME in the United States. A mind-boggling 120 million people tuned in to watch the final episode on February 28, 1983. That means just slightly over half of the entire US population at the time (233 million people) stopped what they were doing to watch a television show together.

So you get it. The show was humongous. And even if you’ve never seen a single episode of the TV show or the movie, there’s a good chance you’ll recognize the haunting theme song that they both share. The theme’s technical title is "Song from M*A*S*H (Suicide Is Painless)", but today it is mostly referred to just as "Suicide Is Painless". And while you may assume it was written by a veteran songwriter with dozens of hits and decades of experience under his belt, the real story is much more interesting and unbelievable…

Table of Contents

• Biography of Robert Altman
• The Impact of M*A*S*H
• Cultural Significance of the Theme Song
• Royalties and Financial Success
• Final Thoughts

Biography of Robert Altman

Robert Altman was an American film director, producer, and screenwriter known for his distinctive style and ensemble casts. His work often blended humor and drama, with a strong sense of social commentary. Born on February 20, 1925, in Kansas City, Missouri, Altman grew up during the Great Depression and developed a passion for storytelling early in life. He served in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II and later attended the University of Missouri.

His early career included directing live television shows before he transitioned to feature films. Altman's unique approach to filmmaking, which included overlapping dialogue and improvisation, set him apart from his contemporaries. He gained critical acclaim for films such as "M*A*S*H", "Nashville", and "The Player". His work has inspired many filmmakers and continues to be celebrated for its innovation and impact.

The Impact of M*A*S*H

The show M*A*S*H significantly impacted television and popular culture. It tackled complex themes such as war, morality, and friendship, all while maintaining a balance of humor and poignancy. Its unique blend of comedy and drama resonated with audiences, allowing it to remain relevant even decades after it first aired.

M*A*S*H was groundbreaking for its time, addressing serious issues like the Vietnam War and mental health, which were often avoided in mainstream media. The characters were well-developed and relatable, allowing viewers to connect with their struggles and triumphs. The show’s success paved the way for future series that would explore similar themes and narratives.

Cultural Significance of the Theme Song

The theme song "Suicide Is Painless" is not only iconic in its own right but also serves as a reflection of the show's deeper themes. Written by Robert Altman's son, Michael, at just 14 years old, the lyrics capture a sense of dark humor that perfectly complements the show’s tone.

The song's haunting melody and thought-provoking lyrics have led to its recognition beyond the series itself. It has been covered by various artists and remains a significant part of pop culture. The theme song's ability to evoke emotion while addressing serious subjects makes it a memorable part of television history.

Royalties and Financial Success

The financial success of M*A*S*H and its theme song illustrates the lucrative world of television royalties. Michael Altman’s contribution as a young songwriter resulted in significant earnings over the years, especially as the show continued to be aired in syndication. The royalties from the theme song have likely brought him millions in earnings since its debut.

Robert Altman, on the other hand, received a one-time fee for directing the film, which pales in comparison to what his son earned through ongoing royalties. This illustrates the potential financial rewards for those involved in creating memorable television content.

Final Thoughts

M*A*S*H remains a cultural touchstone that continues to influence television today. Its blend of humor and serious themes paved the way for future shows to tackle complex issues with sensitivity and wit. The legacy of M*A*S*H lives on, not only in its memorable characters and storylines but also in the impact it had on the television landscape.

The story behind the theme song "Suicide Is Painless" is a testament to the creativity and talent that shaped the show. As we reflect on M*A*S*H, we are reminded of the power of storytelling and its ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.