The award-winning episodic drama “Mad Men” was originally broadcast on AMC from 2007-2015. Now, for the first time, it’s available on HBO Max due to a recent licensing agreement with Lionsgate TV. This 4K remaster has introduced the beloved show to a new generation of viewers, while simultaneously reigniting interest among long-time fans.
“Mad Men” features Jon Hamm as the inscrutable advertising exec Don Draper, with a marvelous ensemble that features Elisabeth Moss as Peggy Olson, Vincent Kartheiser, January Jones, Christina Hendricks, Rich Sommer, Aaron Staton, Kiernan Shipka and John Slattery. Over its eight-season run, the series garnered critical acclaim and received 16 Emmy Awards, including four consecutive wins for Outstanding Drama Series.
The remastered version of “Mad Men” has not only revived interest in the series but spotlighted some unusual mistakes made during production. Viewers everywhere have taken to social media to show what they were most excited to find. Perhaps the best moment comes when two crew members test out a fake vomit machine ahead of a climactic Roger Sterling scene. The mistake occurs mid-way through the first season, in the seventh episode, entitled “Red in the Face.” Contrary to its intended placement, it appears as the sixth episode on HBO Max.
For those fans who haven’t seen these mistakes, check out the original story right here. One viewer remarked, “How is a mistake like that even possible lmao.” Another shared their experience of confirming the mistake by looking up the original scene, stating, “Had to look up the original scene to make sure I wasn’t tripping and yep he is not supposed to be there.”
On top of that, the remaster included a cup later discovered to be from a product carried at a local Belfast chain. After widespread viewer outrage on social media, HBO shamefacedly recalled the offending episode and digitally deleted the cup.
Even with these small misfires, “Mad Men” is a big deal in our cultural landscape. Thanks to AMC+, the series is still available for streaming, meaning fans can watch all seven seasons right now. Matthew Weiner, the creator of the series, initially pitched the show to HBO. Its arrival at HBO Max couldn’t come at a more appropriate time, given that it feels like a homecoming for the show.