The Rabbit Hole

Educational shorts from the 1940s & 1950s are best known for being hilariously skewed portrayals of an unrealistic, ideal way of life.

Even though they’re funny on their own, the hilarious commentary by the folks at Mystery Science Theater 3000 takes the laughter to a whole new level.

Take some time to watch five choice clips.

1. Posture Pals

This short focuses on the importance of good posture set in a class room where a teacher obsessively instructs four students on the importance of standing up straight for health and overall well being.

2. Appreciating our Parents

Here, young Tommy realizes that the house isn’t cleaned and maintained by magic but instead by his mother and father, by sneaking out of bed and spying on his parents. In the end, he learns to be a part of the “family team” and not be such a lazy, ungrateful child.

3. A Date With Your Family

This short features a bizarrely unrealistic portrayal of a “happy” family who sets aside their opinions, emotions, and real selves for a “date” with the family. Note the strange relationship between Brother and Junior.

4. Body Care and Grooming

Part of the famous “Health Education Series” this short begins by brutally tearing down the appearance of an unkempt woman (horridly uneven socks, untucked blouse, and un-styled hair–what was she thinking?) and continues detailing an obsessive hygiene routine.

5. Speech: Using Your Voice

This how-to video teaches everything you need to know to be a fully competent public speaker who is “heard, understood, and pleasing.”