Discovery Channel-Gadgetmania

Shows how infomercials evolved from the huckstering sales pitch of the pre-TV era into a $14 billion-per-year industry and an icon of pop culture. Includes interviews with Ed McMahon, Ron Popeil (Ronco), Philip Kives (K-Tel), Ed Valenti and Barry Becher (Ginsu), and others; clips from classic commercials; detailed information on the structure and mechanics of infomercials; and a behind-the-scenes look at the QVC shopping channel.