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DVD News: Young Justice - Season 1, Volume 1

Check out the new press release for Young Justice on DVD:

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE NEXT GENERATION OF DC UNIVERSE
SUPER HEROES PUT THEIR TRAINING TO THE
TEST AS WARNER HOME VIDEO RELEASES
YOUNG JUSTICE SEASON 1 VOLUME 1
ON DVD JULY 19, 2011

One Disc Featuring Four Fantastic Episodes of the Brand-New
Cartoon Network Show from Warner Bros. Animation

BURBANK, CA (May 4, 2011) – The newest Warner Bros. Animation–produced hit series on Cartoon Network finally arrives on DVD as Warner Home Video (WHV) unleashes its secret weapon with Young Justice Season 1 Volume 1. These DC Universe teenage super heroes have quickly proven to be a hit as the favorite show among boys 9-14. With non-stop action, Young Justice Season 1 Volume 1 comes to DVD for the first time on July 19, 2011.

In Young Justice, being a teenager means proving yourself over and over — to peers, parents, teachers, mentors and, ultimately, to yourself. But what if you’re not just a normal teenager? What if you’re a teenage super hero? How much harder will it be to prove yourself in a world of super powers, super villains and super secrets? Are you ready to come of age in such a world? Are you ready for life or death rites of passage? Are you ready to join the ranks of the great heroes and prove you’re worthy of the Justice League? That’s exactly what the members of Young Justice — Robin, Aqualad, Kid Flash, Superboy, Miss Martian and Artemis — will find out: whether they have what it takes to be a proven hero. These teenage heroes collectively become the Justice League’s secret weapon against the forces of evil. The young protégés must put their super hero education to the test and band together to covertly fight the evildoers that exist on Earth-16. Utilizing The Cave as their home base, the teen heroes will take on under-the-radar missions that would be impossible for the league’s famous and identifiable elders to handle secretly.

While the team works to take on more super hero responsibilities, they are in constant training by the Justice League to eventually take their place alongside the great heroes. Red Tornado is their supervisor; Black Canary is in charge of their training; and Batman determines and directs their assignments. Of course, in true teenage fashion, the members of the team push the limits of their missions, often turning a simple assignment from Batman into something significantly larger.

“DC fans have been vocal about their love for Young Justice, so I am particularly pleased to announce our first DVD release,” said Sam Register, Executive Vice President Creative Affairs, Warner Bros. Animation.

“We are thrilled to bring the newest and youngest members of the DC Universe to homes with the release of Young Justice Season 1 Volume 1,” said Mary Ellen Thomas, WHV Executive Director of Family and Animation Marketing. “As a brand new series, Young Justice is already a favorite and will continue to excite fans with its group of crime-fighting teenage super heroes.” Young Justice Season 1 Volume 1 is executive produced by Sam Register and produced by Brandon Vietti and Greg Weisman. The voice cast includes Jesse McCartney as Robin, Khary Payton as Aqualad, Jason Spisak as Kid Flash, Nolan North as Superboy, Danica McKellar as Miss Martian, Stephanie Lemelin as Artemis and Bruce Greenwood as Batman.

Episodes:

Young Justice Season 1 Volume 1

1. Independence Day, Part 1

2. Independence Day, Part 2

3. Welcome to Happy Harbor

4. Drop Zone

About Warner Home Video:
With operations in 90 international territories, Warner Home Video, a division of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Inc., commands the largest home entertainment distribution infrastructure in the global video marketplace. Warner Home Video's film library is the largest of any studio, offering top quality new and vintage titles from the repertoires of Warner Bros. Pictures, Turner Entertainment, Castle Rock Entertainment, HBO Video and New Line Cinema.

About DC Entertainment:

DC Entertainment, home to such iconic DC Comics properties as Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, The Flash, MAD Magazine, and Fables, is the creative division charged with strategically integrating across Warner Bros. and Time Warner. DC Entertainment works in concert with many key Warner Bros. divisions to unleash its superheroic characters across all media, including but not limited to film, television, consumer products, home entertainment, and interactive games. Publishing over 1,000 comic books, graphic novels and magazines each year, DC Comics is the largest English-language publisher of comics in the world.

BATMAN and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © DC Comics.

About Warner Bros. Animation:

Warner Bros. Animation (WBA) is one of the leading producers of animation in the entertainment industry, with an innovative and talent-rich roster boasting some of the most accomplished writers, producers and artists working today. The studio is on the cutting edge of animation technology, and has both CG and traditionally animated projects in current production and development. In 2010, WBA unveiled three new theatrically released CG cartoon shorts that feature iconic Looney Tunes
characters Wile E. Coyote and Road Runner, rendered in stereoscopic 3D. For television, WBA currently produces Batman: The Brave and the Bold, MAD, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated and Young Justice for Cartoon Network, and will soon launch The Looney Tunes Show, ThunderCats, Green Lantern: The Animated Series and more. WBA also creates the highly successful series of DC Universe Original Animated Movies for DVD. Producing for multiple platforms including TV digital and home entertainment both domestically and internationally, WBA is highly respected for its creative and technical excellence, as well as for maintaining the Studio’s rich cartoon heritage.
It is also the home of the iconic animated characters from the DC Comics, Hanna-Barbera, MGM and Looney Tunes libraries. One of the most-honored animation studios in history, WBA has been honored with six Academy Awards®, 35 Emmy® Awards, the George Foster Peabody Award, an Environmental Media Award, a Parents’ Choice Award, the HUMANITAS Prize, two Prism Awards and 20 Annie Awards (honoring excellence in animation).

...

Stay tuned to ComicsOnline.com for more Young Justice news and for everything geek pop culture!

 

DVD Press Release: Dark Skies: The Declassified Complete series

DARK SKIES: THE DECLASSIFIED COMPLETE SERIES Starring Eric Close and Megan Ward



Secrets and Conspiracies Spill from All 19 Original Riveting Episodes,extensive DVD Bonus Content, Special Booklet and much more!

OWN THE COLLECTIBLE 6-DVD BOX SET ON JANUARY 18, 2011 FROM SHOUT! FACTORY

An idealistic Congressional aide discovers evidence of aliens living among us. When he stumbles into the government’s longtime cover-up, his life changes forever. In the landmark television series Dark Skies, freedom fighter John Loengard declares that “history as we know it is a lie,” and sets out to find the truth before it’s too late. He and girlfriend Kim Sayers embark on a cross-country crusade, attempting to derail plans by the sinister alien “Hive.” Majestic-12, a covert government agency assigned to secretly fight the aliens, monitors Loengard; and Capt. Frank Bach is ready to silence him---or quietly aid his quest. Call it alternative history or call it the unthinkable truth. Either way, call it… Dark Skies.

Created by Bryce Zabel and Brent V. Friedman, Dark Skies, a brilliantly intense sci-fi drama, explored the thrilling intersection of history and mystery, politics and paranoia. Starring Eric Close (Without a Trace), Megan Ward (General Hospital, Boomtown) and the late J.T. Walsh (The Negotiator, Pleasantville), the series, set in the turbulent 1960s, won devoted fans throughout its 1996-97 run on NBC. Besides its fresh focus on the debate over UFOs, the show also incorporated historic figures’ participation into its plots: Bobby Kennedy, Jack Ruby, Timothy Leary, J. Edgar Hoover and other famous names helped to advance the story.

Fifteen years after Dark Skies first aired on network television, the entire series will finally be unleashed for the first time on DVD when Shout! Factory debuts the Dark Skies: The Declassified Complete Series DVD box set on January 18, 2011, marking the 50th anniversary of President Kennedy’s inauguration. Newly remastered, this collectible 6-DVD box set includes all 19 episodes, an international TV pilot, a special commemorative booklet featuring a behind-the-scenes essay by Zabel, and extensive bonus content. The show’s creators Bryce Zabel and Brent V. Friedman, along with stars Eric Close and Megan Ward, discuss the series and their roles in an intimate look back Signal To Noise: Uncovering Dark Skies. Dark Skies: The Declassified Complete Series is a must-have for fans of science fiction, mystery and intrigues. This collectible DVD box set is priced to own at $44.99 SRP.

With fast-paced writing and innovative twists, Dark Skies offered alternative answers for that mysterious crash in Roswell, New Mexico, and the secrets surrounding JFK’s death in Dallas: was the president killed because he planned to tell the country the truth about UFOs? The period drama chronicled America’s path, in official Washington as well as small-town Main Street, from the roar of Cape Canaveral’s space-race excitement, through the haze of Viet Nam and the groovy “summer of love.” Everywhere, Hive aliens lurked, ready to “implant” ordinary citizens—including Kim, and John Loengard’s own brother—while moving toward the goal of world domination and “singularity.”

Dark Skies won an Emmy® for its edgy opening sequence, and received four Emmy® nominations during its run. The show’s richly detailed look, often embellished with real news footage, featured iconic, accurate touches of the times: chrome-grilled cars, TV dinners, and pastel telephones. Musically, Dark Skies offered an eclectic soundtrack of the 1960s, whether folk, rock, or in between. Recognizable names from real life enhanced the show’s premise: Howard Hughes’ famous fear of germs leads the reclusive billionaire to join John and Kim in their search for a Hive tunnel; Attorney General Bobby Kennedy orders a meeting with the pair on a country road; and music artist Jim Morrison has relevant, if volatile, information. Other familiar names cropping up in Dark Skies include Marilyn Monroe, Ronald Reagan, Hubert Humphrey, Colin Powell, Gerald Ford, Norman Schwarzkopf, Carl Sagan, Dan Rather, the Beatles and columnist Dorothy Kilgallen —all realistically portrayed in dramatic reminders of a different era.

For sci-fi enthusiasts and imaginative observers of history, Dark Skies: The Complete Series is a gem of a time capsule, revisiting a familiar period in history with new angles on what we know—or think we know.

Dark Skies: The Declassified Complete Series DVD Bonus Features:

International pilot

Cast & creator commentaries

Signal To Noise: Uncovering Dark Skies– A 3-part intimate look back with creators Bryce Zabel & Brent V. Friedman and stars Eric Close & Megan Ward

Network promos

The Dark Skies Glossary

Original sales presentation

EPK

Never-before-seen Season Two proposal

…And more!

Dark Skies is a production of Bryce Zabel Productions and is distributed by Sony Pictures Television. It has been sub-licensed for home video distribution to Shout! Factory.

Emmy® is the trademark property of ATAS/NATAS.



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DVD Review : Sons of Anarchy Season 1

So, when you need to have a cutting edge subject to formulate a drama around, who do you think of? I know that one of the most public of street gangs, the motorcycle club, didn’t spring to the top of the list. But with great writing and excellent casting, Fox has pulled it off with Sons of Anarchy.

Sons of Anarchy centers on the Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club, their business, and relationships both personal and within the club. Jackson ‘Jax’ Teller (Charlie Hunnam - Cold Mountain) Vice-President of the club, is in a precarious position, both in his personal life and within the club. His junkie ex-wife Wendy (Drea de Matteo - The Sopranos) has just given birth, prematurely, to their son, who’s in an incubator at the moment. While Jax is in the family storage unit he finds a manuscript written by his deceased father, one of the Sons of Anarchy Original 9, outlining his hopes and plans for the club. Clarence “Clay” Morrow (Ron Perlman - Hellboy) is another of the Original 9 and current president of the club. He’s also married to Jaxs’ mother Gemma (Katie Sagal - Married with Children). Add to his problems the return of Tara Knowles (Maggie Siff - Life on Mars) the ex-girlfriend who left the gang and town to become a doctor. Tara has her own problems. Besides over protective mother, Gemma, she brought a stalker with her in the form of F.B.I. Agent Scott Kohn (Jay Karnes - The Shield) who tries to win Tara back by making trouble for the Sons of Anarchy.

And then there’s the rest of the club. The Sons main business is gun running, but a run of bad luck and sabotage has forced them to branch out into other activities. Not only do they deal with dwindling cash flow but also rival gangs, witness silencing, blackmail, women, and, of course, law enforcement. Add in the central club members “Juice” Ortiz (Theo Rossi - Cloverfield), “Chibs” Telford (Tommy Flannigan - Alien vs. Predator), “Trig” Trager (Kim Coates - Prison Break), “Opie “ Winston (Ryan Hurst - Chasing the Green), Bobby Munson (Mark Boone Junior - 30 Days of Night), and Original 9 member “Piney” Winston (William Lucking - Slipstream). Local law enforcement consists of police Chief Wayne Unser (Dayton Callie - Halloween II) who is owned by the club, and Deputy Chief David Hale (Taylor Sheridan - Veronica Mars) who is not owned and is waiting for the chief to retire so he can clean his town up. But throughout everything the Sons go through, the constant is Jax dealing with the content of his fathers’ mystery manuscript.

So how close to reality is Sons of Anarchy? I can’t attest to how close to reality this is, never having been in a club myself, but a message board, evaluating the show, had posts indicating that this is a watered down version of the gangs, and that they are not close to the 1%’ers they portray. This seems to coincide with the documentaries about gangs. Close, but no cigar.
But how close can you get on network T.V.? While the show doesn’t portray the club as dedicated enough to be a 1%’er, they have traits indicative to a motorcycle club. In episode 5, "Giving Back", former member Kyle (Brian Van Holt - Threshold) returns to Charming to see his son. Kyle had been banned for causing Opie to go to prison, but when he is allowed to visit his son, it’s found that he never had the club tattoo removed from his back. So the club confronts him and gives him two choices - knife or fire. Cue screams as camera pulls away. Next scene is a body being dumped outside the emergency room.
So while not graphic in nature Sons of Anarchy is brutal in its’ intent, and Fox is pushing the network T.V. envelope.

Sons of Anarchy Special Features include;
- Audio commentary on selected episodes
- The making of Sons of Anarchy Season 1 fearurette
- Casting Sons of Anarchy
- The Ink
- The Bikes
- Deleted Scenes
- Anarchy on the set

So, you may be asking yourself why you should watch Sons of Anarchy Season 1. They’re not very nice people, they don’t do nice things for anyone who’s not in the club, and even the good guys have serious flaws. The reason you should watch is that this is a truly good, compelling series. The characters are well developed and interesting, the stories fresh and unexpected, and you hope that the characters will change as events unfold. And Season 2 starts soon and you don’t want to go into it uninformed. If you did watch the series you’ll want this set for reference material.

ComicsOnline gives Sons of Anarchy Season 1 5 Bikes, Booze, and Broads out of 5

DVD Review: 24 Season 7

WHO ARE YOU WORKING FOR??!?!

Fans had to wait a long time to see Season 7 of 24 due to the Writer's Strike of 2007/2008. Several promotions had already aired in the US and had indicated the dismantling of CTU, as well as the return of a key player to the 24 Universe, TONY ALMEDA! But wait... wasn't he dead? Well unfortunately for us, only a few of the 24 episodes had been filmed before the strike began and production had to be postponed. After the strike ended, producers at Fox decided to postpone the airing of Season 7 until early 2009... The Power That Be decided that 2009 was a bit too long to wait for new adventures of our hero and made a two hour TV movie called "24: Redemption" (aka Jack Bauer's Adventures in Africa!) to serve as a prequel to the upcoming season. Now that the new season of 24 has been aired in the US, Fox has released the complete 7th season set!

After realizing that the last two seasons were falling flat with fans, the writers made a point that this season was changing the status-quo:

-Set four years after the end of season 6, the show would not be set in LA for the first time in the series run, but instead, would be focused in Washington DC. The season begins with Jack Bauer being questioned by the Senate Hearing committee to answer for allegations against himself and CTU. Jack's methods of interrogation play a huge part of this season. Guess who was leading the Senate interrogation? RED FOREMAN (aka Kurtwood Smith, the father from That 70's Show).

-CTU NO MORE!- The Government decided that CTU wasn't working out and decided to pass off their responsibilities to the FBI, CIA, and Homeland Security. Jack would be called upon to assist FBI Agents Larry Moss and Rene Walker in stopping the newest threat against the country. But what happened to Bill, Chloe, and the rest of the former CTU Agents? You will find out very early in the season.

-The President of the USA would be a female! Cherry Jones took over the role as President this season during the 24 TV movie in November. Unfortunately for her character, Allison Taylor, she would be put to the test this season as her family would come under attack from outside and from within!

-Not just one threat: Not only did we discover that African Terrorists lead by Colonel Dubaku were up to no good and planning to attack the US, but we also had a threat from within in the form of Jonas Hodges who wanted his private military force to have a large part in protecting US citizens. But Hodges will go to extreme lengths to get what he wants and is willing to sacrifice lives to accomplish his goals. Not everyone will make it out alive this season and who knows what will happen next! The level of suspense was definitely stepped up this season as the show got back to its roots and started making those suspenseful cliffhangers that we used to love from early on. Murder, bio-weapons, betrayal, and a few other surprise cameos kept this season moving along at a very fast pace.

-Tony Almeda: Well the biggest surprise of the season was actually given away during the trailers for the season. Everyone and their mother already knew that Tony was coming back. It was actually rumored that he was going to return at the end of Season 6 (an alternate ending that never came to be). When those trailers hit the airwaves it did get a reaction and people were interested, but I think it would have been more exciting as a reveal within the show. How Tony survived his death is revealed early on as well. If you go back and watch his death from the previous season, you will note that he never had a silent running clock at the end of the episode. Every time a major character has died in the series, the producers always have ended the episode in silence...but Tony's death didn't have that so fans assumed that things weren't as they seemed.

Episodes and Special Features

-8:00 AM – 9:00 AM Commentary by Executive Producer/Director Jon Cassar and Carlos Bernard
-10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Commentary by Executive Producer Manny Coto, Co-Executive Producer Brannon Braga and Carlos Bernard
-The Fimucité Festival Presents: The Music of 24
-12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Commentary by Executive Producer/Director Jon Cassar and Annie Wersching
-4:00 PM – 5:00 PM Commentary by Executive Producer David Fury and Hakeem Kae-Kazim
-5:00 PM – 6:00 PM Commentary by Executive Producer Manny Coto, Co-Executive Producer Brannon Braga and Annie Wersching
-7:00 PM – 8:00 PM Commentary by Co-Executive Producer/Director Brad Turner and Tony Todd
-8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Commentary by Co-Executive Producer/Director Brad Turner, Composer Sean Callery and James Morrison
-9:00 PM – 10:00 PM Commentary by Executive Producer Juan Carlos Coto, Annie Wersching and Bob Gunton
-1:00 AM – 2:00 AM Commentary by Executive Producer Howard Gordon, Carlos Bernard and Jeffery Nording
-Hour 19: The Ambush
-5:00 AM – 6:00 AM Commentary by Executive Producer Evan Katz, Mary Lynn Rajskub and Glenn Morshower
-6:00 AM – 7:00 AM Commentary by Executive Producer David Fury, Co-Executive Producer Alex Gansa and Glenn Morshower
-7:00 AM – 8:00 AM Commentary by Executive Producers Howard Gordon and John Cassar

-Deleted Scenes with Optional commentary by Co-Executive Producer Stephen Kronish and Producer Paul Gadd:
-Jack Talks About His Daughter
-Colonel Dubaku Sends a Message
-Larry Confronts Sean
-President Taylor Recites Her Message
-Jack Helps Henry Until the EMTs Arrive
-Chloe disseminates Dubaku’s Files
-Agent Walker Tells Kim that Jack is Sick
-Kim Visits Her Father
-President Taylor and Tim Woods Discuss the Emergency Response Protocols
-Tony Drags Jack
-President Taylor Doubts Herself
-The Contingency Plan is Revealed
-Agent Walker Orders that the Suspect be Transported back to FBI
-Tim Worries About President Taylor
-24-7: The Untold Story

Overall
I can't remember the last time a studio released a season box set the day after the season finale aired. I don't think it has been done before. This set is definitely in line with how great 24 sets tend to be. The team behind the show go out of their way with all of the commentaries and extras each year. This is also the first year that they released a season on DVD and Blu-ray. If you missed out on this action packed year, make sure you go back and check out this new release!

ComicsOnline gives 24 Season 7- 5 out of 5 new attempts to make 24 entertaining!

DVD Review: Adult Swim in a Box

 
Do you like Adult Swim?
Do you like boxes?
Well my friend, I have something to show you!

In 2001, Cartoon Network created a new block of programming on Sunday and Thursday nights geared toward an adult audience. This was the birth of Adult Swim, which has grown from a four hour block of programming two nights a week to its own network that shares the channel with Cartoon Network. In late 2003, Adult Swim started to release DVDs of their original programming with Space Ghost Coast to Coast, Vol. 1 and Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Vol. 1. Each of the different series has garnered a string of releases over the years, and the most popular have been collected in a new release called Adult Swim in a Box. This new release collects six DVD collections from across the Adult Swim lineup in a boxed set for all the fans.

This set contains: season two of Sealab 2021, season one of Metalocalypse, season two of Robot Chicken, season three of Space Ghost Coast to Coast, season one of Moral Oral, volume two of Aqua Teen Hunger Force, and an extra disc with five pilots: The Best of Totally for Teens, Cheyenne Cinnamon and the Fantabulous Unicorn of Sugar Town Candy Fudge, Korgoroth of Barbaria, Perfect Hair Forever, and Welcome to Eltingville. Adult Swim in a Box has some of the most popular series of Adult Swim to date.

Sealab 2021: Season 2: The wacky daily lives a crew of scientists on a research base under the sea. Recommended Episode: "Bizarro"

Metalocalypse: Season 1: The adventures of the death metal band Dethklok, prophesied to bring about the apocalypse and the efforts of the government to stop them. Recommended Episode: "Bluesklok"

Robot Chicken: Season 2: Pop culture is deftly parodied using action figures. Created by Seth Green. Recommended Episode: "Metal Militia"

Space Ghost Coast to Coast: Season 3: Former superhero Space Ghost hosts a talk show in the style of The Tonight Show. Recommended Episode: "Boobookitty"

Moral Orel: Season 1: An over the top claymation parody of the classic religious cartoon Davey and Goliath, where the title character Oral Puppington learns lesions about right and wrong by doing what he shouldn’t with little to no consequences. Recommended Episode: "The Best Christmas Ever!"

Aqua Teen Hunger Force: Volume 2: The daily lives of roommates and a former superhero team made up of a giant shake, a floating box of fries, and a rolling ball of meat… oh, and their neighbor/ landlord. Recommended Episode: "Super Sir Loin" (with MC Chris) And a disc of pilots!

The Best of Totally for Teens: A spoof of the 80’s shows for teens about teen culture.

Cheyenne Cinnamon and the Fantabulous Unicorn of Sugar Town Candy Fudge: Pop-star Cheyenne Cinnamon tries to solve the worlds problems through song.

Korgoroth of Barbaria: The adventures of a barbarian in a future land that looks suspiciously like all those great metal album covers from the 1980’s.

Perfect Hair Forever: An adventure in the style of action/fighting anime about a bald boy in search of the power of Perfect Hair Forever.

Welcome to Eltingville: A show based upon the comic strip Dork, by Evan Dorkin, about 4 archetypal teen nerds and their science-fiction, horror, fantasy, gaming club.

This DVD set is packed with all sorts of special features Seeing as there are 12 discs spread out over six different sets originally released separately, there are special features ore each season of each shoe included.

Sealab 2021: Commentary on all 13 episodes, a Tribute to Harry Goz (the voice of Captain Murphy), 20 questions with the cast, a tour of 70-30(Sealab 2021’s studio), a rough cut of “Der Dieb”, and Ronnie

Metalocalypse: 3 Extended Scenes, 2 Uncensored Scenes, 9 Band Interviews, The Skwisgaar Skwigelf Advanced Fast Hand Finger Wizard Master Class Instructional Video, Ravenwood learning from Skwisgaar Skwigelf Advanced Fast Hand Finger Wizard Master Class, Thunderhorse Outtakes, Mordhaus Tour. Untitled Compilation Music Video, Selatcia Teaser, Burzum's Food Menu, and Pickles' "Scourge of Drugs" all on the discs as easter eggs

Robot Chicken: Commentary on all 20 episodes, Deleted Scenes, Deleted Audio, the Christmas Special, The Making of a Sketch, Adult Swim Promos, Deleted Animations, Animation Meetings, a Slide Show, the PS3 Contest Promo, Video Blogs, and the Freedom Rock Promo

Space Ghost Coast to Coast: Commentaries on “Zoltran” “Brilliant Number One” “Pavement” “Boatshow” & “Joshua”, A moment with Jon Stewart, Alternate “Zorak” ending, Switcheroo Extra # 1 & 2, World Premeire Toon in, Bob Odenkirk & David Cross Interview, and “Boatshow” in 5.1 Surround Morel Oral: Episode Commentaries, The Awkward Comic-Con Panel, Promos/Bumps, Behind the Scenes, Original opening, and Odds and Ends

Aqua Teen Hunger Force: Commentary on “Super Trivia” “Meat Zone” “Cybernetic Ghost of Christmas Past from the Future” & “Baffler Meal”, Deleted Scenes from “Super Model” “Cybernetic Ghost of Christmas Past from the Future” “Baffler Meal” & “Super Birthday Snake”, Baffler Meal Music Video, Future Wolf II: Never Cry Wolf: Origin of the Series, and Future Wolf III.

Adult Swim in a Box is the kind of DVD Set that comes out once in a blue moon. The set collects season sets of episodes from different series. This is something that is usually unheard of. Most often a dvd set has an episode or two of a few different shows to emulate a specific day of television, like Saturday morning cartoons. But this is a tremendous achievement, especially at the price point. To buy these sets individually it would cost $160, and wouldn’t even come with the disc of pilots. What you get in Adult Swim in a Box is six seasons of hugely popular shows, and five pilots two of which are currently unaired, all for $69.98. That is an amazing deal for all that you get. This is something that a fan of Adult Swim should definitely pick up, especially if they haven’t picked up any of the Adult Swim DVDs yet. This will get their collection off with a bang.

Comics Online gives Adult Swim in a Box 5 shows by Seth Green out of 5.

DVD Review: Andy Richter Controls the Universe

Once upon a time on network prime time TV, sitcoms ruled the entire prime-time landscape. Families use to look forward to sitting down after dinner and watching the hilarious adventures of their favorite TV family and possibly learn a couple life lessons along the way. As time has gone by, these series became too formulaic and the public's interest in them started to wane. Now sitcoms on TV are very scarce and most don't even make it past their first seasons. In order to try and break up the normal formula of how a sitcom is, we started to find shows that took on gimmicks such as That 70s Show, Scrubs and Greg the Bunny.

In 2002, we were introduced to Andy Richter Controls the Universe, a show about a writer named Andy who works for a big company and writes Technical Manuals but he also writes small stories about his life using his overactive imagination. Most of the show is him narrating over his life giving him some personal enjoyment of his drab, dull life he has been forced into. Most of the show comes from his interaction with his co-workers who fill out a lot of the normal office archetypes who Andy then uses and exaggerates in his stories he tells to the viewer.

The best episodes make use of this quite a bit, such as the episode where Andy makes a cartoon character to insert into one of their manuals and the idea is stolen from him... despite it resembling Andy or the episode where Andy gets his supervisor to date another co-worker who has a twin brother just to prove that the twins will try and share her.

Special Features

-Commentary by Andy Richter and Victor Fresco on selected episodes

-How Andy Richter Controlled the Universe...Featurette

-What if Andy Richter Controlled the Universe? Featurette


Overall
In truth the show is very much hit and miss with its jokes and humor style and not for everyone, but for those of you who give this one a shot, you may find a quirky little sitcom which has become a slowly dying breed.

ComicsOnline gives Andy Richter Controls the Universe 3.5 out of 5 shows canceled too soon.

DVD Review: Archer Season 1

Within the past decade or so, the amount of animated shows for mature audiences has been on the rise. Shows like Family Guy, Futurama, Aqua Teen Hunger Force, and Space Ghost: Coast to Coast have gained much popularity for pushing the envelope from what people are normally use to seeing and experiencing in animated tv series. It helps that Cartoon Network developed their own sub-channel, Adult Swim, dedicated entirely to such adult programming. Adam Reed who got his start working for Adult Swim and Williams Street creating and writing such shows as SeaLab 2021, Frisky Dingo and the aforementioned Space Ghost: Coast to Coast captured people's attentions with his fast paced, Arrested Development style writing and brand of off-beat quirky humor and quickly gained himself a small cult following of fans for it. His newest show, Archer, continues in his previous shows footsteps and yet greatly surpasses all of them in numerous ways. Now you can own Archer Season 1 on DVD!

 

Archer is an animated spy parody workplace sitcom starring Sterling Archer (voiced amazingly by H. Jon Benjamin previously of Home Movies fame) as possibly the worst secret agent you will ever meet. The only reason why he is a secret agent is because his mother Malory (Jessica Walter) is head of one of the world's most elite top secret spy agencies ISIS, and thus is a tad more forgiving. As if that wasn't enough, Sterling works along side his previous ex-girlfriend Lana Kane (Aisha Tyler), who may or may not still hold romantic feelings for Archer despite currently dating ISIS's hopeless yet lovable geeky cubical monkey, Cyril Figgis, (voiced by Saturday Night Live's Chris Parnell) who attempts to show Lana he is just as amazing as Archer. Throw in a pair of annoying co-workers (Judy Greer and Amber Nash) and you have a prime recipe for all sorts of comedic antics.
Really, the spy setting of the show is just used to give out main characters new and exciting situations to bicker in and screw up spy-jobs due to their various relationships and petty arguments getting in the way of things constantly. The dialogue is all amazingly fast paced and the jokes (which range from the extremely low brow to the highly intelligent and everything in between) will never cease to make you chuckle.

 

Unlike most animated comedy shows, Archer has an ongoing plot that builds throughout the entire season. The continuity is very surprising and refreshing bringing back fond memories of Arrested Development, which three of the voice actors in Archer were also involved with. Archer is not afraid to constantly bring back running gags such as Sterling always being shot in the foot (Mostly by one of his co-workers instead of any adversaries) and Cheryl/Carol's constantly changing names throughout the season. The amount of plot threads that seem to keep popping up which you think are just going to be used for one off gags (Such as Malory's relationships with various rival spy factions or constant mentions of the ODIN team being better than ISIS) is quite surprising and adds much depth to the series. Adam Reed has really outdone himself this time!

 

Episode Highlights:
"Honeypot": Guest starring the amazing Ron Perlman, Archer is sent to seduce a gay Cuban rogue agent who plans on leaking information about his mother (Which just so happens to be a sex tape of her making love to the head of Russian intelligence).

"Diversity Hire": A new agent Conway Stern is hired at ISIS HQ in order to help diversify the staff and ends up impressing everyone... except Sterling Archer who believes Conway is just a bit TOO good and sets out to prove it and regain his imaginary status of Top ISIS Agent.

"Mole Hunt": After his mother figures out that Archer has been using ISIS funds for his own little vacations, Archer sets off to cover his own tracks by setting into motion the rumor that ISIS has a mole in their ranks, completely unaware about how true that rumor really is.

Special Features:
-The Original Un-Aired Archer Pilot (Totally not a joke... totally... I swear its not the first episode only with a Raptor in place of Sterling Archer... that would be just plain silly and amazing.)

-The Making of Archer

-Deleted Scenes

-Bonus pilot episodes of other FX shows The League and Louie

Overall:
The first season of Archer is a very strong start to what will hopefully be a very long and ongoing series. The characters are very memorable and the writing is insanely witty keeping the show constantly entertaining. If Get Smart were to sleep with Arrested Development, their baby still wouldn't be anywhere near as refreshing as what Archer brings to the table. Its really nice to see Adam Reed able to break away from Adult Swim (Especially after how fast Frisky Dingo was canceled) and do something a bit more ambitious such as Archer. The all-star voice cast is great and never manages to miss a beat with their comedic timing and inflection. In a day and age when both The Simpsons and Family Guy have become worn out and overdone, Archer really brings something new and fresh to the adult animated sitcom genre!

ComicsOnline gives Archer Season 1 on DVD 4 out of 5 Arrested Development actors!

Get your copy of Archer Season 1 at Amazon.

Stay tuned to ComicsOnline for more TV on DVD reviews and everything geek pop culture!

  

DVD Review: Avatar: The Last Airbender - The Complete Book 1 Collection - Special Edition

 

Aang, Katara, Sokka, and the rest are back and ready to face off against the evil Fire Nation! With M. Night Shyamlan's adaptation of The Last Airbender hitting theaters in August, Nickelodeon has decided to release a new special edition Avatar: The Last Airbender - The Complete Book 1 Collection for fans to own on DVD. This new release features the first 20 episodes of Book One: Water, which is the main story arc being adapted to the big screen.
 

Over 100 years ago there was an Airbender who had mastered all four of the elements and was called the Avatar. Avatar: The Last Airbender tells the story of a young monk named Aang, who is the last surviving member of the Air Nomads. During his absence, the Fire Nation has taken control of the world and has dominated the remaining members of the Water and Earth Nations. Aang is joined by two young Waterbenders named Katara and Sokka, his faithful flying bison Appa, and a flying lemur named Momo. Together, they set out to master the elements, stop the evil Firelord and reunite the Four Nations.

Episode Highlights:
"Boy In The Iceberg"- The series premiere introduces us to the Southern Water Tribe, who have been living in fear of the evil Fire Nation. Two young members, Katara and Sokka, are out fishing and stumble upon a boy who is frozen in an iceberg. They quickly help him escape, only to learn that he is actually the last member of the Air Nomads, a race that everyone thought had died out over 100 years ago. Aang learns of his lost time and finds that only he can master the elements and become the next Avatar. Aang and his new friends set out on Appa, Aang's flying bison, in search of masters who can train Aang in the ways of the other nations. We are also introduced to Prince Zuko, son of the Firelord, who is in search of redemption and must seek out and destroy the Avatar. This episode features a fantastic introduction to the world of the Four Nations, as well as a colorful cast that will follow Aang throughout his journey to become the Avatar.

"The Warriors of Kyoshi"- Aang and his friends encounter the mysterious Warriors of Kyoshi while taking a detour from their journey. Suki, the leader of this all female group, teaches Sokka a lesson or two about sexism and demonstrates the skills that the female warriors possess. This was an extremely fun and important episode as the Kyoshi Warriors play a key role through the series. Suki becomes a fantastic reocurring addition to "Team Avatar" over the course of Aang's adventures.

"The King of Omashu"- The gang make it to the Earth City of Omashu, where Aang hopes to learn Earthbending from the King of the city. The King, however, seems to be quite crazy and forces Aang to undergo tests to prove that he is who he claims. Throughout the episode we get a glimpse of Aang's past as well as his connections to Omashu.

"The Great Divide"- The group must cross a massive opening called The Great Divide in order to get to the Earth city of Ba Sing Se. They encounter two feuding Earth tribes who are in need of a guide to traverse the divide and make it to the city. Aang volunteers to travel with the tribes and attempts to broker a truce with the groups and learn more about his abilities along the way.

"The Blue Spirit" - Sokka and Katara become ill after being exposed to a violent storm and Aang must find a way to help his friends. While seeking a cure for their illness, he stumbles upon Admiral Yuko of the Fire Nation and becomes captured by his forces. A mysterious masked fighter called the "Blue Spirit" helps Aang escape and it is revealed that he has close ties to Aang! This episode features more of the history of the Fire Nation and we learn more about Prince Zuko.

"The Siege of the North, Parts 1 and 2"- After a long and perilous journey, Aang, Sokka, and Katara have finally made their way to the Northern Water Tribe and are given the opportunity to study with a Master Waterbender. Shortly after they arrive, a fleet of Fire Nation ships appear and launch an attack on the Water Nation. The Waterbenders must fight to stay alive and fend off this new attack while Aang searches for a spiritual way to reach the Avatar-State and channel the raw energies of the elements to stop the Fire Nation fleet. This episode was the perfect culmination of events from the season as we truly saw how far the characters had come from the first episode. Aang finally begins to access the power and energy of the Avatar and leaves fans with an exhilarating end to a fastastic season.

Special Features:
New Special Features for this set include:

-Avatar Documentary- This new 30 minute documentary with series creators Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko takes fans behind the scenes as we learn more about the development of the series with the cast and crew. This was definitely the highlight of the new set and provides great new insights into the series with never-before-seen production art and storyboards!

-Preview of the upcoming release of Avatar - The Last Airbender: The Art of the Animated Series. This preview includes additional commentary, production designs, storyboards and further stories about the development of the characters. This is a must have for any fan as it provides more background on the process that the development team went through to bring Aang and his friends to life.

Previously released Special Features:
- Behind-the-Scenes with the Avatar Cast & Crew

- Avatar Pilot Episode with Audio Commentary- Take a look at the short pilot episode that was used to pitch this amazing series.

- The Making of Avatar – Inside the Sound Studios

- The Making of Avatar – Inside the Korean Animation Studios

Overall:
I honestly hadn't watched any of this show until about 4 months ago when one of my friends at work insisted that I borrow their copy of Book 1. With the hype of the new movie and all of the amazing imagery that had been released I felt compelled to give the show a shot, and I can say without any hesitation that I am extremely happy with what I found. I quickly discovered a rich and vibrant world filled with amazing characters and stories which exceeded any expectations that I had. Over the course of one week (seriously, I need a life) I powered through the entire series and became hooked on the success of Aang and his quest to master the elements. While this new edition has some new content, it is really designed more toward those who don't already own the series. If you already own it, I would tell your friends to buy it so that they can experience the show (and so you can experience the new content). I highly recommend this series and I look forward to the upcoming movie and hope that it does justice to the world that the animated series created.

ComicsOnline gives Avatar: The Complete Book 1 Special Edition Collection 5 out of 5 flying bisons.

Purchase your copy of Avatar: The Complete Book 1 Special Edition Collection at Amazon.

 

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DVD Review: Batman: The Brave and the Bold- Season One, Part One

 

Holy Guest Stars, Batman!

The newest animated incarnation of Batman has made its way to DVD in Batman: The Brave and the Bold Season One, Part One! These new adventures of the Caped Crusader feature team-ups with different heroes from the DC Universe on a weekly basis to stop evil. This new cartoon is very different than the previous animated series, as it is heavily influenced by the 1960's Batman Comics and Adam West television series.
 

Episode Highlights:
"Rise of the Blue Beetle": Batman teams up with Jaime Reyes, the new Blue Beetle (voiced by Batman Beyond's Will Friedle), to stop a new threat from outer space. While on their mission the two are diverted to an alien world which is under siege from the villainous Kanjar Ro. Jaime must help these new alien friends rise up against Ro and prove that he is worthy of the title of Blue Beetle.

"Evil Under the Sea": Batman pays a visit to the underwater city of Atlantis to visit Aquaman (voiced by Futurama's John DiMaggio). Together the two heroes must stop the threat of invasion from Aquaman's arch-nemesis: Black Manta! Can Batman help his aquatic friend fend off the attack? Can he also convince Aquaman that there is another threat that might come from his own family? This episode stands out heavily from the rest as it shows us a very different take on Aquaman. This new version acts more like a boisterous king than the reserved hero from the comics. The reception to the new Aquaman has been overwhelmingly positive, and has proven to be the most entertaining character of this new series.

"Fall of the Blue Beetle": Jaime is determined to learn the fate of the previous hero to call himself the Blue Beetle, and might have to defy Batman to do so! Jaime travels to Kord Industries to learn more about the history of the men who have upheld the mantle of the Blue Beetle. This episode gives fans a different take on the death of Ted Kord (voiced by Star Trek: The Next Generation alum Wil Wheaton), but it is still a heroic one worthy of the character.

"The Eyes of Despero": When the Green Lantern Corps are unable to stop the evil alien known as Despero from taking control of the universe, Hal Jordan (Green Lantern of Sector 2814) sends his ring in search of the one being who could save the day: BATMAN! Watch as Batman travels to OA and is forced partner with Guy Gardner, Sinestro and G'Nort in order to save all life from enslavement. Can a powered up Batman stop this incredible evil? This episode features many cameos of your favorite Green Lantern Corps members!

"Deep Cover for Batman" and "Gave Over for Owlman": This two part episode features the Dark Knight traveling to a parallel world  After Batman's alternate universe counterpart known as Owlman attacks Batman in the Batcave, Batman must assume the identity of Owlman and travel to the parallel world to stop the evil Injustice Syndicate from destroying his world! With the help of the mysterious hero known as the Red Hood, Batman must face off against evil versions of Aquaman, Blue Beetle, Red Tornado and Green Arrow. While Batman was pretending to be Owlman in the alternate world, Owlman was masquerading as Batman in his home-world. Batman must team up with the Joker in order to stop Owlman once and for all!

Special Features:
This release does not contain any special features.

Overall:
This happier, witty, friendlier version of Batman might be a shock to some fans, but is still very much rooted in the history of the comics and character. The new series is made to appeal to a much larger audience than the Dark Knight usually appeals to. It succeeds in being very entertaining and Diedrich Bader spouts off endless one-liners with spot-on, deadpan delivery. Even though it may at first put off the hardcore audience, if given the chance, Batman: The Brave and the Bold will win over even the most jaded Batman fan.

ComicsOnline gives Batman: The Brave and the Bold Season One, Part One - 4.5 out of 5 witty Batman one-liners.

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DVD Review: Batman: The Brave and the Bold- Season One, Part Two

The adventures of the Caped Crusader have made their way to DVD in Batman: The Brave and the Bold - Season One, Part Two! With help from Booster Gold, Etrigan the Demon, Black Canary, Blue Beetle, The Huntress, and Aquaman, Batman is able to successfully save the day, week after week!

Episode Highlights:
"Trials of the Demon!"- Batman is transported back in time to save Jason Blood! Now Batman must team up with Etrigan the Demon and Sherlock Holmes to stop Jim Craddock's mystical plan to gain immortality. Batman recognizes his future foe and tries to save him from becoming the Gentleman Ghost. This episode features a nice homage to the Batman Elseworld's story "Gotham by Gaslight". Additionally, viewers are treated to a team up between Batman and Jay Garrick, the Golden Age Flash, as they fight off a dastardly Halloween related plan by Scarecrow and the Scream Queen.

"Night of the Huntress!"- Batman and Blue Beetle team up with Huntress to face off against Babyface and Mrs. Manface! Can these three heroes stop Babyface before he breaks out prisoners for Blackgate Penitentiary? This episode is full of comedic moments with Blue Beetle asking Batman about the facts of life and asking for his help in getting the Huntress to like him.

"The Color of Revenge!"- At long last, fans are treated to an episode featuring Robin! What happened to break-up the dynamic duo? The opening scene shows our heroes in the past, facing off against a villain called the Crazy Quilt, who is trying to rob an art museum. During the battle, Quilt is accidently blinded by Robin, and claims he will have vengeance. We then ship ahead to the present, and learn that Robin has been fighting crime on his own (in a Earth-2 inspired outfit), trying to step out from the shadow of the Bat. Can Batman and Robin overcome their past differences and stop Crazy Quilt once and for all?

"Mayhem of the Music Meister!"- Batman must stop the nefarious foe known as the Music Meister from taking over Gotham City. This fully musical episode features the talents of Neil Patrick Harris (Dr. Horrible's Musical Sing Along Blog) as the Music Meister and Grey Delisle as Black Canary. With amazing musical numbers such as "Drives Us Bats" and "If Only", this episode will leave you wanting more. The campy, over the top musical numbers are cleverly written and fit in well with the stylistic choices of Batman: The Brave and the Bold. The rest of the cast get in on the fun as well as we get to hear the vocal talents of John Di Maggio, Kevin Michael Richardson, Tom Kenny, Dee Bradley Baker, and James Arnold Taylor as the heroes and villains in the musical chorus. I can tell you that the songs will be stuck in your head for days.

 

Special Features:
This release does not contain any special features.

Overall:
This happier, wittier, and friendlier version of Batman might be a surprise to some fans, but is still very much rooted in the history of the comics and character. It succeeds in being very entertaining and Diedrich Bader spouts off endless one-liners with spot-on, deadpan delivery.

ComicsOnline gives Batman: The Brave and the Bold - Season One, Part Two - 5 out of 5 witty Batman one-liners.

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Stay tuned to ComicsOnline for more Batman: The Brave and the Bold news!

DVD Review: Black Panther Motion Comic

We had iPads before you had televisions. What now, bitchez?

In 2005 Reginald Hudlin (House Party, House Party 2, House Party 3) and John Romita Jr. (Uncanny X-Men, Amazing Spider-Man, Invincible Iron Man, Kick-Ass) brought back Marvel's first black hero into volume 3 of The Black Panther ongoing series. This is a great comic whose initial 6-issue arc was strong and lent itself to an animated miniseries perfectly, but really that's not unique among great comics, right? What's notable here is the how and why this particular comic arc got made into a miniseries.

The cheap explanation is that it's because I manifest a clearly melanin-challenged phenotype, but I didn't know who Reggie Hudlin was outside of comics. As he himself describes in the special features, Reginald Hudlin was hired to write The Black Panther based on his reputation in motion picture entertainment, and a few issues in, he was made President of Entertainment of BET. Shortly after this, a friend of his brought him the first scene of the motion comic unsolicited, which bowled Hudlin over and he approached his boss at BET to ask to get it made into an animated series to air on BET. This request was approved, and Hudlin and crew proceeded to assemble a stellar voice cast.

Marvel's Black Panther stars the majestically voiced Djimon Hounsou (Stargate, Constantine, Push) As T'Challa, aka The Black Panther, Alfre Woodard (Star Trek: First Contact, True Blood) as Dondi Reece and the Queen Mother of Wakanda, Stephen Stanton (Wolverine and the X-Men, Robot Chicken) as Klaw, Carl Lumbly (Justice League, Alias) as Uncle S'Yan, Phil Morris (Justice League, Smallville) as W'Kabi, Kevin Michael Richardson as Announcer #2 (name any cartoon character with a deep voice), and Stan Lee (Excelsior!) as General Wallace.

The Black Panther premise is as simple as it is exciting. Wakanda is a tiny African nation with a distinction from not only all other states on that continent, but probably anywhere on earth: They have never been conquered, nor have they ever attempted to conquer others. They have rich petroleum reserves, yet do not tap them, as they have a green energy source: a mysterious metal called vibranium that has the property of absorbing vibrations (how this equates to creating energy is none of your damn business, you can ask Stan Lee if you can't suspend your disbelief). Wakanda is something of a juxtaposition of a sci-fi city whose technology is far beyond that of anywhere else on Marvel Earth and classic old African traditionalism including an animist religion based on a panther god. Wakanda's government is something of a theocratic monarchy, where in an annual contest of fighting skill, their king must best all challengers in unarmed combat to retain his right to the throne. Bottom line: Wakandans are all badasses, and their king is the most bad ass of them all, and gets the title of The Black Panther.

The Black Panther plot of course is that over time, people always try to invade Wakanda, and now that the invaders are super-villains, this time they may just succeed. Ulysses Klaw has a long history with the Wakandan royal family, and T'Challa and the rest of Wakanda are in for quite a fight.

Audio and Video

While the animation in Black Panther is very well done for a motion comic, it still does take some getting used to. Maybe we're spoiled by cartoons today, but this, like Wakanda itself, is another juxtaposition of some aspects that are aboriginal, and others that are cutting edge. I watched this on my Playstation 3, so visually it upconverted beautifully to seem as if it was on Blu-ray, even though it's just a regular DVD. Audio-wise, the voices, music, and sound effects are truly what bring this story to life. If you're not hooked by the time the theme song finishes on the first episode, you may want to see a doctor.

Special Features

This DVD release has the perfect amount of extras. It's got video interviews with the title character, as well as the writer and artist of the source material. It's all interesting to watch, even the extended version of the theme song as a music video.

• A Conversation With Star Djimon Hounsou
• Looking Back At Black Panther With Reginald Hudlin And John Romita, Jr.
• Exclusive Music Video
• Trailers

Overview

Marvel's Black Panther is an exciting miniseries. The action is always hot and the voice acting (apart from Captain America--What were they thinking?) is top-notch. The story was changed to add a bit of a love story with Storm (which didn't happen until later in the comics), and the story itself was only enriched by this addition. The one problem with some scenes that were not in the comic book source material, is that the art is glaringly (to a long-time fan) not John Romita Jr's art. The added scenes are so different, they tend to jar you out of the story a bit. Some more money thrown toward getting JRJr to draw the additional scenes would have helped this mini-series immensely. Ultimately, this DVD is one of the best animated shows based on a Marvel property ever produced, and certainly the best motion comic we've seen.

ComicsOnline gives Marvel's Black Panther on DVD 4 out of 5 Dora Milaje.

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DVD Review: Burn Notice - Season Four

ComicsOnline gives Burn Notice: Season Four -  5 burned spies out of 5.

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DVD Review: Californication Season 2

 

 

DVD Review: Chuck- Season 3

DVD Review: Chuck: The Complete Second Season

 

Chuck Vs. The Online Reviewer - Chuck: The Complete Second Season

We've all been at that point in our lives, stuck at a dead end job, no clue where your future lies, an entire database of international secrets in your heads that everyone and their mother wants to kill you over while being protected by a hot as hell blond bombshell of a secret agent and Jayne from Firefly. Its why we all releate to Chuck Bartowski and the many many trials and tribulations he goes through within the second season of Chuck.

For those not in the know, Chuck tells the fish out of water story of a ordinary guy who works at the local Buy More and he stumbles upon something huge. A computer with all the nation's secrets in it gets downloaded into his head and thus his life is turned completely upsidedown as he enters the world of secret agents, spies and corrupt shadow organizations while trying to find a way out of this mess.

Coming off a strong first season cut short by the now legendary writers strike of '08, Chuck: The Complete Second Season doesn't miss a beat hopping right back into it all. We learn that the goverment is trying to rebuild its supercomputer called The Intersect, and when it does, Chuck believes he can finally go back to his old life. Sadly for Chuck, the reality of the situation is the only way out of this mess is with a bullet to his head since the goverment cannot have all their secrets roaming around in a civilian's noggin, a job appointed to one of Chuck's protectors, Major John Casey, to carry out once the new Intersect is fully completed and operational. Just to make things more complicated, over the course of last season Chuck has slowly fallen for his other protector who goes by the name of Sarah Walker, a gal with as many secrets as she has different shoes.

On the other side of things we have Chuck's "normal" life at the Buy More and at his home that he shares with his sister and her fiancé "Captain Awesome", the other side of the coin that Chuck tries as hard has he can to keep seperated from his super secret spy life but as he comes to find out, the two are more attached then they initally seem to be.

Season 2 of Chuck gives us more of everything fans could want, including story arcs which continue and last through several episodes. Each one brings in new reoccuring characters such as Chuck's ex girlfriend played by Jordana Brewster and the corrupt Bill Gates-esc Ted Roark portrayed by comedy legend Chevy Chase that just keep building up the mythos and fleshing out the universe that Chris Fedak and Josh Schwartz have created for Chuck.

Speaking of guest stars, this season really pulled out the stops with huge names like Bruce Boxleitner, Nicole Ritchie, Scott Bakula, Dominic Monaghan, Morgan Fairchild and more! They even went as far to cross universes with Die Hardby bringing in Reginald VelJohnson reprising his role as the ever famous cop Allen, making him the owner of the Buy More, Big Mike's cousin. Part of the fun is watching episode to episode never knowing just who is gonna show up as what as well as all the pop culture references to their past works that they bring in with them.

Another high point is the show continues its amazing usage of music in its episodes (Including the use of the anthem of geeks everywhere, Stan Bush's The Touch from the animated Transfomers movie) that Schwartz obivously brought over from his experiences working on his previous show, The OC.

Special Features:
-Truth, Spies and Regular Guys: Exploring the Mythology of Chuck
-Dude in Distress: Explore some of the season's best action sequences
-Chuck versus the Webisodes
-Chuck: A Real-Life Captain Awesome's Tips for Being Awesome- Want to know how to impress the ladies? Captain Awesome will tell you. 
-John Casey Presents: So You Want to Be a Deadly Spy?- John gives you some insights into the spy world.
-Gag Reel- On a show like Chuck, there is bound to be comedy behind the scenes as well. 
-Declassified Scenes

Overall:
Season 2 of Chuck has been one of the most consistant and well written shows on tv that has came out in recent years keeping its viewers highly entertained and amused and this DVD set brings in all the charm with full force. They even give you a few pairs of 3-D glasses to use with the special 3D gimmick episode (Don't worry all you non-3D lovers out there, the episode is also included in your standard two dimentions for those of you out there who hate fun.). This set really pulls out all the stops and hits all the right notes. Its a perfect way to get anyone new addicted to this quality series and will get anyone ready for Chuck Season 3 starting Sunday January 10th on NBC. If you are a fan of anything geeky you owe it to yourself to see this Chucktastic show!

Don't forget ComicsOnline's exclusive interviews with the cast of Chuck:

ComicsOnline gives Chuck: The Complete Second Season 5 out of 5 shows that have never had a bad episode!

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DVD Review: Community: The Complete Second Season

POP POP!

Jeff, Troy, Abed, Britta, Annie, Shirley, Pierce, Chang, and Annie's Boobs are back for another round of fun and excitement as Community: The Complete Second Season comes home to DVD!

The gang is back and ready to start their second year together at Greendale Community College, and new challenges and surprises will push the bonds of this Study Group to their limit. Paintball was just the beginning. Get ready for zombies, clay-mation, trampolines, babies, politics, Betty White and more in the thrilling second season.

And check out DJ Steve Porter's Remix of Season Two of Community:

DVD Review: Cougar Town The Complete First Season

 

“Hey, do you think your mom likes me?”
 

The Show

Courteney Cox Arquette (Friends, Dirt) stars as Jules, a recently divorced, 40 year old mom living in suburban Florida with a successful real estate business who is attempting to get back into the dating scene.  Director Bill Lawrence channels his previous series Scrubs with reckless abandon and fans of that series will see lots of similarities.  The film style is the same, as is the quirky, not-everyone-will-get-it humor.  Lawrence brings in wife Christa Miller (Scrubs, The Drew Carey Show) as Jules’s best friend Ellie as well as several cast members you’ve likely seen before but can’t quite remember where.  It definitely has quite a bit of potential, but rather it will reach that point remains to be seen.

The problem I’m having with this show is the title character.  “Cougar” used to be a novel idea to describe older women dating/sleeping with younger men.  These days, it’s about as clichéd as the playboy neighbor or the much-more-intelligent-than-his-parents kid in television (both of which are in this show as well).  Actually, it seems that virtually every character in this show is a cliché in one form or another: the dominant, insulting wife; the pushover husband; the pretty, dumb friend and the redneck ex round out this cast.  Maybe they were going for that angle, to be tongue-in-cheek – with Bill Lawrence at the helm, it’s probable.


 

One reason to watch the show.
 

Don’t get me wrong: Courteney Cox is looking great and I enjoy her, but the neuroticism she brought to Monica Gellar is still very much there, just in a different way.  Now, instead of being obsessive about cleanliness, she’s become obsessive about being alone, keeping her son as close to her as possible and drinking wine constantly.  She’s an interesting character: one minute, she’s moving her teenaged son into a very small office just to make his room a massive bathroom for herself (complete with heated floors and a Japanese toilet that “cleans her hoo”) and the next, she’s co-signing a condo lease for her young assistant and good friend Laurie (Busy Phillips – He’s Just Not That Into You, ER).  I genuinely can’t decide if I’m rooting for her or not.

There are some very bright spots, of course.  She has a very close – if not sometimes uncomfortable – relationship with her son Travis.  She finds joy in his heartbreak because he’ll cry on her shoulder, making her feel needed.  The dynamic between the two can be slightly unnerving at times.  In one episode, she makes him rip wax strips from her armpits.  Luckily, with those oddities comes Dan Byrd as Travis.  He plays the role with such dry wit, such sarcasm, that I found myself liking him immediately.  His bright adolescent attitude really counters his control freak of a mom and he even manages to pull off some pretty bad ass one-liners throughout.  Cougar Town casting found a gem with this actor.  Brian Van Holt (Threshold) as Jules’s crazy stupid ex-husband Bobby Cobb takes the cake in every episode without fail.  He is hysterical in his simplistic naiveté and is consistently given the best lines in the show.  Hell, the guy lives on a boat in a parking lot and goes fishing for catfish with his arm.  However, he is loyal and as dumb as a St. Bernard, making him easily the most lovable character.


 

Another reason.
 

CougarTown has a habit of forcing humor on the viewer.  When Jules attempts to show off her “flexibility” to a much younger boy toy, she inadvertently pulls a muscle in her leg.  I anticipated these types of jokes long before they happened and it’s by far the worst part of the show. Thankfully, the writers appear to have caught on to this and it happens less and less as the season goes on. On the other hand, the show does an excellent job of creating some type of lesson for the characters at the end of each episode.  Watching Jules, along with the rest of the cast, grow emotionally despite their ages makes for a very rewarding experience.

Episode Highlights

I had a hard time choosing an episode that was my favorite in this season. I was such a fan of Scrubs and with this show being created by the same team, I fell in love with it immediately.  The first few episodes feed a lot of the clichés I mentioned earlier, but as the show goes on, there’s a stronger dynamic created between all the characters that is just awesome to watch.  It’s a show that evolves throughout its 24 episodes and it’s for the better. 

Audio/Video

Season One is presented in a standard definition widescreen format (1.78:1) with Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround sound.  There’s also some Spanish and French subtitles thrown in for good measure.  The soundtrack is awesome with plenty of memorable songs throughout, but the montages have a habit of overpowering the dialogue that occasionally occurs during them.

Special Features

Cougar Town: The Complete First Season is presented in a three disc DVD collection with the following extras:

• Taming Cougar Town Featurette
• Ask Barb Featurette
• Stroking with with Bobby Cobb Feaurette
• Deleted Scenes
• Blooper Reel
• Jimmy Kimmel Live: Saber-Tooth Tiger Town trailer
• “My Sexualitay” Music Video

The Taming Cougar Town Featurette is the most robust of the special features and even that isn’t very long.  It explains how Kevin Biegel and Bill Lawrence began with the idea of Cougar Town and how the show has evolved across season one.   The Ask Barb Featurette has the shows true cougar answering questions with a heavy sexual undertone.  If you love it, there’s plenty of it on the disc.  If not, back away slowly - she could potentially creep you out.  The Stroking with Bobby Cobb featurette is a bunch of small clips with Bobby and Andy as they assist the public on the golf course.  It’s by far the funniest collection of extras in the set and they are worth multiple viewings for the one-liners alone.

I’m usually upset that most deleted scenes aren’t included in the movie or series but in this case, I feel like it was the best decision to leave them on the cutting room floor.  Much of them are alternate stories to the characters that didn’t really fit in to the season. The Blooper Reel is way too short to really be watch-worthy and features very similar screw ups from all the cast members.  The Saber-Tooth Tiger trailer is hilarious but I won’t ruin how awesome it is by telling you the details. Just see it. The music video is exactly what you’d expect and you’ll already know what you’re getting yourself into if you’ve already watched the season.

Overall

Fans of Scrubs will feel right at home here and will absolutely love what Cougar Town offers.  Thankfully, I’m a fan and this is a new series that anyone can find something to love about.  It’s fun, top-notch entertainment.

ComicsOnline gives Cougar Town: The Complete First Season on DVD 4.5 out of 5 middle aged women.

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This review was written with assistance from the lovely Jenn.

DVD Review: Dark Skies: The Declassified Complete Series

History as we know it is a lie

Conspiracy and science fiction have been popular television themes since the invention of the cathode ray tube, and when the two mesh it’s often magic. In the middle of The Fugitive, V, X-Files, Lost, and Fringe are 1996’s Dark Skies.

In 1961,fourteen years after the Roswell incident, fresh out of college, John Loengard (Eric Close – Without a Trace) and girlfriend, Kimberly Sayers (Megan Ward – Sleeper Cell) go to our nation’s capitol; John as a congressional aide to his hometown congressman Charles Pratt (John M. Jackson – JAG), and Kim as an assistant to the First Lady, Jackie Kennedy. John’s first task is to look for projects which can be offered up for budget cuts, and he investigates Project: Blue Book, who’s only purpose, seems to be to track UFO abductions. Predictably, the owners of the project come back to fight the close scrutiny of the project, and the Men in Black are introduced, tapes are taken, lives threatened, and bodies punched to no avail. John continues to investigate and is recruited into the folds of the super secret, men in black, government agency, Majestic-12, headed up by Captain Frank Bach (the late J. T. Walsh – Pleasantville). This is the point where the story takes off. John is introduced to crop circles, two alien races; the grays and the ganglions, alien abduction, and government conspiracies. Cleverly told around, and incorporating, the events of the 60’s we see the inception of Roswell, the assassination of JFK, the space race, The Beatles, Howard Hughes, Jim Morrison, the civil rights movement, Vietnam, and the Watts Riots.

There is a cast of recurring characters including Juliete Stewart (Jeri Ryan – Star Trek: Voyager), Jim Steele (Tim Kelleher – Dollhouse), Bobby Kennedy (James F. Kelly – played Robert Kennedy in six different films), and Lt. Commander Phil Albano (Conor O’Farrell – Lie to Me). These characters were regulars, along with the friends, family members, politicians, both from that period and the future.

Dark Skies was an interesting, innovative series that incorporated events and people from our historic 1960’s in the actions taken by alien invaders, and our governments attempts to thwart the takeover. What I found intriguing was how the writers merged the aliens’ invasion plans with history in a completely plausible manner. In one of my favorite episodes, John and Kim investigate the death of a college friend and surfing pal, in Los Angles. It appears that a waste treatment plant is Hive operated and has tampered with the beach waters. They gain access to the plant and valuable information from a college film maker, James Morrison. At the end of the episode James’ film is confiscated and the narrator tells us that Jim found another outlet for his message. Doors fans will understand how this fits so well in history, and this and other incidents make this series a joy to watch.

Special Features:

International Pilot

Cast and Creators Commentary.

Signal to Noise: Uncovering Dark Skies - An Intimate 3 Part Look Back with Creators Bryce Zabel, Brent V. Friedman, and stars Eric Close and Megan Ward.

The Dark Skies Glossary - Bryce Zabel, and Brent V. Friedman Define the Important Terms of Dark Skies and UFO Lore.

Network Promos.

Original EPK.

Original Sales Presentations.

A Never Before Seen Proposal for Season 2.

I love this series for the times it takes place in, the conspiracy aspect, and, of course, the science fiction and aliens. The problem with Dark Skies was the setting. The viewers, who wanted good science fiction on TV, didn’t relate to the 60’s, and those that could relate didn’t want sci-fi. The shame is that if the network and the viewers had waited for another season John and Juliete return to the completely different world of 1997. The only shortcoming of this set is the forced ending that attempted to give some closure to a series that was cancelled before it’s time.

ComicsOnline gives Dark Skies: The Declassified Complete Series 4 ½ alien parasites out of 5

.

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DVD Review: Dead Like Me: Life After Death

Remember the reapers? The Dirty Harry meter maid Roxy (Jasmine Guy - A Different World), actress Daisy (Laura Harris - The Faculty), English slacker Mason(Callum Blue - The Tudors), and newest to the grim reaper ranks, toilet seat girl (remember she was killed by a space station toilet seat), Georgia, “George” Lass (Ellen Muth - Dolores Clairborne), with Rube (Mandy Patinkin - Alien Nation) as the leader of this group.

Five years ago, the final installment was the Halloween/ flashback/ serial killer episode, but previously everyone was dealing with some sort of personal crisis. Rube was dealing with unresolved issues from his past, Mason and Daisy had killed a man in self defense, and he became an evil graveling, George was having Halloween flashbacks concerning the serial killer, and Roxy is, well, Roxy.

Now five years has passed and Dead Like Me: Life After Death begins with Der Waffle Haus having burned to the ground, and Rube is missing. Laura Harris is replaced as Daisy by Sarah Wynter (24), but no seems to notice. Rube is replaced by corporate hotshot Cameron Kane (Henry Ian Cusick - Lost), who is more concerned with petty amusements then the business of reaping. And because he isn’t keeping control the reapers make mistakes. Mason begins drinking and stealing during reaps, Daisy begins drinking and loses focus of what’s important, Roxy botches a reap, and George is given a wrong time for a reap and contacts her sister. Then things get really bad before our merry band take action to fix the problem.

Dead Like Me was a quirky, dark comedy shown on Showtime in 2003/2004 and is in syndication on Sci-Fi and Universal HD. The series started with Georgia “George” Lass, college dropout and aimless slacker, returning from lunch to her temp job, when she is killed by a toilet seat from a space station. Just before her demise, she is touched someone, and that same someone assists her with her new role as reaper. Just before someone dies, they are touched by a reaper for the express reason of collecting their souls so they can be guided into their afterlife. The series focus’ on the adventures the reapers have in dealing with having to have lives and jobs, as well as making their reaps on time. Rube receives the list of people that will die, as well as when and where, then he make assignments to the group on yellow post-it-notes, handed out during breakfast at Der Waffle Haus. Other recurring characters worth noting are sister Regina “Reggie“ Lass (Britt McKillip - in the movie), mother Joy (Cynthia Stevenson - in the movie), dad Clancy (Greg Kean), Happy Time temp agency boss Delores Herbig (Christine Willes - in the movie).
Dead Like Me: Life After Death provides closure, especially for George and Reggie, but also sets up for the possibility of further installments. I thoroughly enjoyed this companion piece to the series and feel that if more are made they can fit in seamlessly and not ruin the integrity, and if not, at least there was closure for the characters. If you like the series you must see this.

ComicsOnline gives Dead Like Me: Life After Death 4 re-entering toilet seats out of 5.

 

DVD Review: Doctor Who "Frontios" and "Time and the Rani"

by Erin Hatch, Editor-at-Large

After my adventures reviewing two sets of classic Doctor Who episodes from the Jon Pertwee years, I hopped in my TARDIS and jumped forward to the mysterious 1980's to look at an another two recently released Who story arcs: "Frontios" from 1984, starring Peter Davison, and "Time and the Rani" from 1987, with Sylvester McCoy as the Doctor, which are now available to own on DVD!

Unlike the Jon Pertwee story arcs, the Davison and McCoy episodes will seem more familiar to fans of the newer Doctors. Instead of grounding their action on Contemporary Earth (as in the Jon Pertwee years), these Doctors can be found gallivanting about the universe in their respective versions of the TARDIS, visiting alien worlds and far off times.

"Frontios", a story arc from the last season of Peter Davison's run as everyone's favorite Time Lord, features the Doctor and his companions Tegan (Janet Fielding) and Turlough (Mark Strickson), as they crash on a planet in the far future, at the limit of the TARDIS' ability to travel. On this world, Frontios, they discover a small colony of humans who had fled the destruction of Earth, only to find themselves isolated on a hostile world. The Doctor and his friends are forced to earn the survivors' trust and find the extraterrestrial source of the disasters plaguing the humans.

"Time and the Rani" represents the first story arc featuring Sylvester McCoy as the Doctor, and one of the last attempts to prevent the BBC from canceling the series. Over the course of the four episode arc, the new Doctor comes to terms with his sudden regeneration while he attempts to thwart the machinations of the Rani, another renegade Time Lord who has holed up on a backwater planet, coerced the local populace to work for her, and is working to construct a device that will help her gain even more power.

While both sets are definitely more watchable compared to older Doctor Who, not to mention being very interesting historically, there is something lacking about the episodes. In many ways, their similarities to episodes in the 2005 series work against them, as viewers who have seen the later episodes will probably find the earlier works similar but lacking many of the entertaining aspects added to later incarnations of the ideas. Also, both of these four-part story arcs feel like they likely could have been condensed to two episodes without losing much of value.

Part of what makes these classic story arcs interesting are the special effects, and "Time and the Rani" is particularly interesting in its usage of early CGI work, especially how the post-production CGI special effects are merged with plentiful helpings of on-location pyrotechnics. The team goes a little over the top with their newfound ability to create fantastic devices, and while the effects are dated, they still show a remarkable amount of technical proficiency.

Special Features:
"Frontios" Extras:
-Audio Commentary by actors Peter Davison (the Doctor), Jeff Rawle, John Gillett, script editor Eric Saward and Special Sounds Designer Dick Mills.
-Driven to Distraction: Making Of with the cast and crew.
-Deleted and Extended Scenes.
-Photo Gallery
-PDF Materials

"Time and the Rani" Extras:
-Audio Commentary by actors Sylvester McCoy (the Doctor) and Bonnie Langford, and writers Pip and Jane Baker.
-Last Chance Saloon: A making-of in which the cast and crew talk about working on the series at a time when the BBC was considering whether to cancel the program.
-7D FX: A short featurette in which crew members responsible for this story arc's visual effects discuss the process of working with special effects at the time.
-Helter Skelter: An interview with the creators of Doctor Who's first computer generated title sequence.
-Lakertya: A brief examination of the creative process in designing the setting for Time and the Rani.
-Hot Gossip: A short interview with Kate O'Mara (the Rani) and Sylvester McCoy over working with several friends for this story arc.
-On Location: An excerpt of a news program discussing the transformation of an old quarry into the extra-terrestrial setting for "Time and the Rani," including interviews with the cast.
-Blue Peter: An introduction of Sylvester McCoy as the new Doctor.
-Photo Gallery
-PDF Materials

Overall:
As a historical examination of Doctor Who, these collections of old story arcs provide new fans an excellent opportunity to experience bits and pieces of the Doctor's massive history, without investing too much time in tracking down old episodes. The special features also do a lot to elaborate on the historical conditions behind the scenes, especially the excellent extras in the "Time and the Rani" DVD. Unfortunately, while watching these classic story arcs was interesting, it wasn't particularly fun. The quality of film for these stories is much higher than the story arcs from the Jon Pertwee era, but at the same time it lacks a lot of the absurdity that made the Jon Pertwee material fun to watch. Long time Doctor Who fans may enjoy adding these stories to their DVD collections, and followers of the recent series should enjoy seeing bits and pieces of the past that they have missed, but these will only be fully appreciated by the most dedicated fans, and are probably a little bit too dated to be enjoyed by general audiences.

ComicsOnline gives Doctor Who: Frontios - 3.5 out of 5 crazy rubber alien bugs.

ComicsOnline gives Doctor Who: Time and the Rani - 4 out of 5 excessive pyrotechnic displays.

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DVD Review: Doctor Who - Meglos

The year is 1981. It is the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, Margaret Thatcher is Prime Minister, and Ronald Regan had won the Republican nomination for president and is on his way to the White House. But most importantly, Tom Baker is nearing his outgoing regeneration at the end of his run as the fourth Doctor. It is series 18, the final season of his tenure, and the serials are strong. Romana has regenerated, and is just as smart if not smarter than the Doctor himself. Many of the great episodes were this Doctor’s: “The Sontaran Experiment,” “The Pyramids of Mars,” “The Talons of Weng Chiang,” and “Genesis of the Daleks” have all aired with Baker as the Doctor. This Doctor has gone from the creation of the Dalek race to another dimension and even to Victorian London. This time the fourth Doctor has found himself having to escape being sacrificed, and defeat space pirates and a sentient cactus. Now Doctor Who - Meglos is available on DVD!

 

In “Meglos”, The Doctor, Romana, and K-9 ate asked to come to the planet Tigella by the leader of the scientific caste from the two castes of the planet’s society, Zastor to help figure out the cause of fluctuations in the Tigellans power source, the Dodecahedron. On the way to Tigella, they are captured in a Chronic Historesis, or a small time loop by an intergalactic space cactus, named Meglos who is the last of his race, the Zolfa-Thurans. He summons the Gaztaks, space pirates, to do his bidding in a plan to steal the Dodecahedron, which was originally a Zolfa-Thuran energy source. With this, Meglos uses an earthling that the Gaztaks have stolen for him to impersonate anyone he chooses, and he chooses the Doctor!

As The Doctor and Romana are trapped within the Chronic Historesis, Meglos goes with the Gaztaks to Tigella as the Doctor in order to enact his sinister plan. On Tigella, Meglos is easily able to infiltate the city as Zastor greets him with open arms, as if he was really the Doctor. It is here when the Doctor and Romana are able to escape the Chronic Historesis, by throwing it out of phase, and safely land in the jungle on the surface of Targella. By this time, however, Meglos has had time enough to shrink the Dodecahedron and steal it. As the Doctor arrives at the Tigellan city, he is captured for the theft of the Dodecahedron, and readied for sacrifice in order to create its spontaneous return…

Special Features:

• Audio Commentary featuring Lalla Ward who plays Romana, Christopher Owen who plays the earthling shat Meglos shifts into, co-writer of the serial John Flanagan, and composers Padd Kingsland and Peter Howell.
• “Meglos Men”, a featurette where the serial’s writers, John Flanagan, and Andrew Mc Cullogh meet with series 18’s script editor Christopher H. Bidmead.
• “The Scene Sync Story” is a featurette that details the creation of a device that used new blue screen techniques to create
• “Jacqueline Hill: A Life in Pictures”
• “Entropy Explained” in this featurette entropy is explained in a way that anyone can understand it.
• A photo gallery showing various photos from production.
• An isolated music score audio option.
• A production notes subtitle option.
• A downloadable PDF copy of its Radio Timeslistings.

“Meglos” is a good example of the fourth Doctor’s tenure. This is during his last season, as the writers were fully used to his personality, knew what to do with him, and how to react. Early on in Tom Baker’s run as the Doctor, it was evident that his personality hadn’t been figured out, and a lot of Tom Baker’s personality ended up going into the role to flesh out what wasn’t there yet. This left a lot of awkward variances from scene to scene in each serial at first. By the time “Meglos” was written and filmed the character had been fully established, and his wit, charm, and intelligence were fully entrenched in the character. This gave a character that was leagues better at the end than the beginning. The writing of the serial was a smart, serious piece of work that really helped to define the end of the fourth Doctor’s run, and the beginning of the fifth Doctor's. This is a serial that is really fun to watch, and keeps the viewer’s interest throughout each episode. A casual viewer of Doctor Who won’t enjoy the episode as much as a hardcore fan, but will enjoy seeing one of the doctors widely touted as the best at his best. When the character kicked into full gear, Tom Baker always gave it his all at playing the Doctor. This one is well worth a watch for all levels of Doctor Who fans.

ComicsOnline gives Doctor Who - Meglos 4.5 Dodecahedrons out of 5.

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DVD Review: Doctor Who - The Movie

The year is 1996, and Doctor Who has been off the air since 1989. The BBC has no interest in launching a new series, as the ratings had dropped so low in the final year of new episodes. Plans had been on the drawing board off-and-on for renewing the character. A movie was in the works for a while, and the contract had finally lapsed. A UK-born,  American movie and television producer has been courting the BBC to get a chance to create a new series since the series went off the air. The producer, Philip Segal,  gets his chance to start production of the backdoor pilot after years of troubles in Hollywood. The movie keeps in the timeline with the old series and adds to the story by creating a new Eighth Doctor, but by sticking with the story the movie could have confused the new viewers. The Doctor Who - The Movie failed in the US due to a poor choice of timeslot for airing, being aired against some of the higher rated programs of the era such as the series finale of Rosanne. This was the lost first chance for a new series of Doctor Who and now it is available for you to own on DVD!
 
Doctor Who: The Movie stars Paul McGann (Withnail & I, Alien 3) as The Eighth Doctor, and Eric Roberts (The Specialist, The Dark Knight) as The Master. The movie starts with the Doctor telling of the trial and execution of the Master by the daleks, and the subsequent retrieval of his remains by the Doctor for return to their homeworld of Gallifrey.  On the way, The Master escapes from his “casket” and causes the TARDIS to crash land in San Francisco on New Year’s Eve, 1999. The doctor exits the TARDIS, and gets shot by a gang member, and taken to a hospital for emergency surgery. It is here where the seventh Doctor (Sylvester McCoy) regenerates into the eighth Doctor. The master, in a snake-like form escapes in the coat of the EMT that took the Doctor to the hospital, and enters into the body of the EMT, Bruce (Eric Roberts). The Master, now in the body of Bruce, goes to hunt down the doctor and steal his remaining five lives. The Doctor escapes from the hospital with the cardiologist that accidentally killed him, and meets up with the guy who went with the Doctor to the hospital in the TARDIS, and convinces him to help him. It is at this point where the doctor finds out where to get the piece that he needs to fix the TARDIS, and the chase is on.

As with any regeneration of the Doctor, along with a new face, a new outfit has to be designed. With this new Doctor a new Master was also introduced. The Master starts out as an EMT names Bruce. Bruce wears his normal EMT uniform. After the Master possesses Bruce’s body the outfit adds a leather (or vinyl) ankle length trench coat and a pair of dark aviator sunglasses. The outfit then changes to one last permutation, Time Lord Ceremonial Robes. The robes are similar what would have been worn on Gallifrey during the fourth Doctor’s tenure, or even during the recent David Tennant episode, “The End of Time.” The Doctor’s look is actually reminiscent of many of the previous incarnations of the Doctor. The outfit is a stolen Wild Bill costume which is made up of a black velvet frock coat, a silver western vest with a shawl collar, a white French cuffed shirt, a grey cravat, light grey fitted California pants, and modern thick soled dress shoes with suspenders of unknown design. It is most immediately recognizable as being reminiscent of the first Doctor’s outfit. The hairstyle is a nod to the fourth Doctor’s hair. It actually seems that the outfit is more of a direct nod to the fourth Doctor’s outfit, as the hair is long and curly, they are both made up of similar components, and there is one scene in Grace’s car that has the cravat open in a scarf like fashion. The eighth Doctor is dressed in a manner similar to Doctors five and six, wearing a long coat and vest. Most Doctors dressed in a semi-Victorian fashion throughout the series, and the Eighth Doctor is no exception.
 
Special Features:
 
Disc One-
-Two audio commentaries, one with the director, Geoffrey Sax, and another with the seventh Doctor, Sylvester McCoy, and the eighth Doctor, Paul McGann, moderated by Nichols Briggs.

-An Isolated Music Score.

-The four songs that are used in the movie: “In A Dream,” a jazzy selection listened to by the Doctor while reading The Time Machine. “Ride Into The Moonlight,” a rock selection from the episode. “All Dressed Up,” a country song played over the radio in the hospital’s morgue. “Auld Lang Syne,” the traditional New Years celebration song.

-“The Seven Year Itch” is an hour-long feature that tells the story of how the TV movie eventually became a reality.

-“The Doctor’s Strange Love” three fans discussing their love for the TV movie.

DVD Review: Doctor Who Season 4

The Doctor is IN!

Doctor Who that is. New adventures, new Companions, and returning adversaries comprise the greatness that is the Fourth Season of Doctor Who which is now available on DVD. If you haven't been watching this newest incarnation of The Doctor Who franchise Season 4 is a great starting point!

Story:

The Annual Christmas Special "The Voyage of the Damned" picks up moments after the finale of Season 3. The Doctor (David Tennant) must stop history from repeating as a new Space Faring Titanic is about to crash into the Earth on Christmas Eve. Now he must race against the clock to save the crew from certain death. In order to save everyone The Doctor gets a little bit of help from Astrid Peth (as played by Kylie Minogue).

After barely surviving the Titanic incident the good Doctor must face new challenges with a little help from his friends. Catherine Tate joins the cast full time as the new quirky Companion Donna Noble (last seen in the 2006 Christmas Special "The Runaway Bride"). Donna and the Doctor set out into the time-stream to find new adventures as Donna wants to see everything. Donna's eagerness reinvigorates the Doctor after his previous companion, Martha Jones, departed at the end of Season 3 to be with her family.

In "Partners in Crime" the Doctor and Donna are reunited under some unusual circumstances. Together they must stop an usual plot by aliens to convert human bodies into new forms.

In "The Fires of Pompeii" the two travel back in time to Pompeii and must deal with the eruption of Mt Vesuvius in the year AD 79 and learn the truth about what causes the volcano to become active!

In "The Doctor's Daughter" The Doctor and Donna travel to another planet where a war is being waged between two factions, one of which uses genetic information to create and breed warriors. When the Doctor himself is used as a genetic template he comes to the realization that he is now the father of a healthy, beautiful, teenaged girl who is ready to fight! Can the Doctor save his new daughter? And what part will she play in the future? Only time can tell (but I will tell you this: whatever they do with her, it's going to be great!!!).

In "Silence in the Library" the Tardis responds to an odd distress call for the Doctor...upon showing up at the origin of the call the Doctor is introduced (or reintroduced?) to Dr. River Song...HIS WIFE??? This episode was written by Steven Moffat who will be taking over as Executive Producer on Doctor Who in Season 5. His work on the series has helped shape and define the new Doctor that we know and love.

In "Left Turn", we learn of how things could have been if the Doctor had not interfered in the lives of his companions! This is a great What If style story that features many, many cameos!

In "The Stolen Earth" and Journey's End the Doctor must reunite with all of his friends in order to stop a great evil from The Time War! If they can't stop this villain, then the Earth and the Universe will be lost...forever...This finale features appearances from Sarah Jane Smith, Rose Tyler, Martha Jones, and Captain Jack Harkness!

Special Features:
The features on Season 4 make this set a MUST for any Who-Fan as it includes the special produced specifically for the Children in Need Benefit organization. The Mini-Episode entitled "Time Crash" takes place moments before Season 4 and features an appearance by the Fifth Doctor played by Peter Davison!

-David Tennant's Video Diaries

-Deleted scenes from Season 4

-Audio Commentary from the cast and crew

-Retrospective Featurette

Overall:
David Tennant is truly addictive to watch. You truly believe every word that comes out of his mouth because he has such a strong conviction about everything he says and does.

It is important to mention that this is the final full season for both Russel T Davies (Executive Producer) and David Tennant (The Doctor). Both will continue with the show in 2009 during which BBC will produce several 2 hour specials.

Doctor Who Season 4 is truly impressive. Every episode is engaging and fully adds to the season long narrative. The addition of Catherine Tate to the cast was a surprise at first, but she ended up becoming a great addition to the world of Doctor Who. The integration of the past Companions into the season finale really helped tie up any loose ends that Davies had left open before this departure from the series.

ComicsOnline gives Doctor Who Season Four 5 out of 5 prior Companions.

DVD Review: Doctor Who- The Dominators

It is the time of the Second Doctor. Sci-fi history has been made with the first regeneration of the Doctor, ensuring the longevity of the series past any one actor, where an ensemble will keep the show running for decades. It is the start of the second Doctor’s final season. He has faced countless enemies: The Daleks, and the Cybermen being the most famous of them. He has had a few companions over the course of his three seasons, and traveled from 18^th century Scotland through Victorian London, then modern day earth, and on into the far future. With his companions, The Doctor has faced the Daleks numerous times. With the beginning of this season, The Doctor faces a new enemy. In this serial, “The Dominators” The Doctor faces a new race called The Dominators, and their robotic servants the Quarks.

Now you can get your copy of Doctor Who: The Dominators on DVD!

On the planet of Dulkis, war and violence have been outlawed for hundreds, maybe even thousands, of years. "Today" an alien craft, of the imperious and ruthless Dominators has landed on what the inhabitants call the Island of Death, the planet’s one and only atomic test site and absorbed all of the radiation present on the Island. The Dominators then send out the Quarks, their robotic servants, to prepare locations on the Island for drilling into the planet’s crust in order to turn the planet into fuel for their fleet of ships that is passing through the system. Meanwhile, elsewhere on the island, The Doctor, Zoe, and Jamie have landed in the TARDIS for a small vacation on this planet. The Doctor has been telling of the peaceful nature of he inhabitants of the planet, and how he has been looking forward to the vacation that they were planning to take, as it is cut short by the explosive destruction of a craft!

Due to this, the Doctor and his companions have taken shelter in a museum building on the island that has a display of the damage of nuclear devices, and weapons no longer in use. They are then discovered by an expedition team of Dulcians and taken back to their survey station, where the Dulcians are puzzled by the fact that the radiation on the island reads zero. Meanwhile, the Quarks are beginning work on drilling into the planets core, at the previously marked sites, but their power supply is very limited, and the commander of the Dominators ship that has landed is under orders to conserve power whenever possible. The Doctor and Jamie are then captured by the Quarks and taken to the Dominator’s ship to see if they can be used for slave labor for the work that must be done to drill into the planet’s core…

Special Features:

• Audio Commentary with actors Frazier Hines, who played Jamie, Wendy Padbury, who plays Zoe, Giles Block, who plays Teel, Arthur Cox who plays Cully, and The make up designer, Sylvia James.
• “Recharge and Equalize” is the making of for this serial.
• “Tomorrow’s Times: The Second Doctor”, which consists of contemporary press coverage of this serial.
• A photo gallery of mostly unseen photos from production.
• Downloadable Radio TimesListings in PDF format.
• A subtitle option of production notes.

Overall:

Doctor Who - The Dominators is actually a lot more interesting to watch than is expected. The serials of the Second Doctor are rather well written, and surprisingly entertaining. The episodes are a bit longer than other seasons, and provide a better story line with which to enjoy. The quality of writing is better than in some other years of the run of Doctor Who, and keeps the audience watching throughout each serial with a vigorous interest in how the Doctor will “get out of this one.”  The shows are in black and white, but by no means is this an indicator of lower quality shows, as they are still very well made, even better than some shows of later series and even later Doctors. The Second Doctor is not my favorite Doctor, but still is a joy to watch as he makes his way through his adventures. The acting is great quality, and highly believable, as each character is clearly defined, and there really is no one who becomes a “damsel in distress,”. Each character is smart enough to work their way out of pretty much any situation, and help the Doctor come up with a solution to his current predicament. This is truly a serial that should be seen by any Doctor Who fan, and will be thoroughly enjoyed by all.

ComicsOnline gives Doctor Who: The Dominators 4.5 Quarks out of 5.

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DVD Review: Doctor Who- The Next Doctor

Nothing says Christmas like evil robots and time traveling Doctors! Doctor Who returns for his annual Christmas Special in the standalone story The Next Doctor, which is now available for you to own on DVD.

David Tennant continues his incredible tenure as The Doctor, this time venturing back to London in the year 1851. There he encounters some old friends, The Cybermen, and gets the opportunity to meet another version of himself (played by David Morrissey)! But wait... how can there be TWO Doctors? Now the two men must work together to stop the Cybermen from altering history and ruining Christmas (the Christmas part is more important).

We learn the tale of Jackson Lake, a human who tried to stop the Cybermen with a device called an info stamp, which contained information about the Doctor and the Cybermen. Lake's mind is overwhelmed with information and he comes to believe that he himself is The Doctor! With his mind in pieces, he sets out to stop these villains with the help of his companion, a young woman named Rosita. Using the Doctor's memories, he creates the T.A.R.D.I.S ("Tethered Aerial Release Developed In Style"), and the two Doctors plan a way to stop the Cybermen from unleashing their newest creation, The CyberKing!

Special Features:
Doctor Who at the Proms- "Music of the Spheres"- This mini-episode of Doctor Who was created for the Doctor Who Prom event in July of 2008 at the Royal Albert Hall. The Doctor has been working on his own musical composition titled, "Ode to the Universe", which he then conducts with a live symphony orchestra.

Overall:
I've said it once and I will say it again, watching David Tennant as The Doctor is an amazing sight. This is one of David's final stories as the Tenth Doctor, and it is followed by the stand alone story, The Planet of the Dead (now on Blu-ray and DVD). Tennant himself will be stepping down as the Doctor following three more adventures in time and will be replaced by the young Matt Smith. Many believed that David Morrisey would be replacing Tennant based on the trailers and the plot, but as entertaining as Morrisey was, I wouldn't have enjoyed his take on The Doctor on an ongoing basis. If you missed out on this adventure, make sure you catch up before the November release of The Waters of Mars!

ComicsOnline gives Doctor Who - The Next Doctor 4.5 out of 5 Robot Christmas Stories!

DVD Review: Doctor Who- The Seeds of Doom

DVD Review: Doctor Who: Silver Nemesis

Ronald Reagan is president, Margaret Thatcher is prime minister, and Doctor Who is 25 years old. The year is 1988, and it’s the silver anniversary of Doctor Who. Throughout the year, products and specials are released to celebrate the momentous occasion, such as a 25th Anniversary soundtrack and a 25th Anniversary special Magazine. Fans of the series were celebrating Doctor Who all across England. It seems that for the silver anniversary then, that “Silver Nemesis” would be an apropos title for the 25th anniversary serial, which this one happens to be. This serial was also part of a darker turn in the storyline of the series, with an intention of revealing who the Doctor really was. This episode featured the inevitable return of the Cybermen, as they were one of the most popular alien villains, next to the Daleks.

Now you can own Doctor Who: Silver Nemesis on DVD!

“Silver Nemesis” takes place on earth in 1988, almost exclusively. A meteor is going to land on earth with a Gallifreyan super weapon. If any one person reunites the weapons parts, they will gain the power of life and Death. Three factions are vying for the weapon: the Cybermen, Herr de Flores, the leader of a Neo-Nazi group who wants to bring about the Fourth Reich, and Lady Peinforte - a seventeenth century sorceress who uses black magic to travel to the present time. The Seventh Doctor, and his companion Ace must come between all three factions to stop any and every one of these factions from putting all three parts of the weapon together, even if they have to put it together themselves, to save Earth, and even the universe itself.

Special Features:
Audio Commentary: Actors Sylvester McCoy, Sophie Aldred, and script editor Andrew Cartmel talk about their experiences making this serial.
“Industrial Action”: The half hour making of documentary featurette
Deleted and Extended Scenes: 2 minutes of trimmed, and removed scenes from the Episode.
Trailers and Continuity: 5 minutes of commercials, and continuity for this serial.
Isolated Score: This feature lets us watch the story arc with only the score. No sound effects! No dialogue!
Optional Dolby Digital 5.1 Mix: Now you can enjoy late 80’s Doctor Who in glorious 5.1 Surround!
Photo Gallery: This one is a video gallery of photos from the production of the story arc.
PDF Materials: The BBC always adds a little something extra for the fans, this time it’s the listings in the Radio Times.

Overall:

“Silver Nemesis” is a standard story for the era of the Seventh Doctor, as they were playing with the truth about who he really was. With this in mind, it makes the story even more interesting than it already was. The story has him dealing with a problem that he created 300 or so years earlier that could destroy the universe. It seems that the stakes were high as usual, and we profited from it, as this serial was pretty good. The Cybermen make a welcomed return here, and it improves the serial as it raises the stakes even higher than they already were, before they landed in England. It’s nice to see a release of a Seventh Doctor serial, as we mostly get to see the previous Doctors on DVD. Once again, This one isn’t the best to introduce someone to Doctor Who, but is a great watch if you are already a fan of the series.

Comics online gives Doctor Who: Silver Nemesis - 4 autographed jazz tapes out of 5.

Get your copy of Doctor Who: Silver Nemesis on DVD at Amazon.

Stay tuned to ComicsOnline for more Doctor Who news and for everything geek pop culture!

  

DVD Review: Drawn Together: The Complete Series: Party in Your Box

 

Back in the early 2000s, reality television was a booming industry. Most Television programming centered around banal shows where people competed against people for fame and fortune. They were cheap to produce and easy to cast compared to other types of television programming. Comedy Central decided to join the movement, but with a twist. Drawn Together became the first animated reality show, debuting at Comic-Con and premiering on TV soon after.

By the time Drawn Together had reached its third season, the producers and writers were pushing to top each previous episode to see what they could get away with The legacy it left behind was a program of low brow humor, offensive content and debauchery. It was pretty darn funny. Drawn Together is a parody of all the reality shows of the time, and the major archetypes of cartoons at the time. The show revolves around eight characters placed in a house in a manner similar to The Surreal Life or The Real World. Each of the eight characters was an archetype of cartoons:

• Princess Clara: A parody of Disney princesses. 
• Wooldoor Jebediah Sockbat: A parody of children's show characters in the style of Spongebob Squarepants. 
• Foxxy Love: A ghetto-ized parody of Valerie Brown from Josie and the Pussycats. 
• Toot Braunstein: An overweight and alcoholic parody of Betty Boop. 
• Ling-Ling: A parody of Pikachu. 
• Xandir P. Wifflebottom: A parody of Link from The Legend of Zelda series who seems to be homosexual. 
• Spanky Ham: A parody of Flash cartoon characters from the internet. 
• Captain Leslie Hero: A parody of Superman who happens to be chauvinistic, perverted, lecherous, and a repressed bisexual.

Since this is the entire series of Drawn Together there is a wealth of special features presented here. All three of the boxed season sets are collected together, so there are all of the special features from those, and new ones produces exclusively for this set. 

Special Features:
• Uncensored and extended versions of every episode 
• Commentary by Dave Jeser and Matt Silverstein (along with cast and crew) on "Hot Tub", "Clara's Dirty Little Secret", "The Other Cousin", and "The One Wherein There Is a Big Twist" 
• Deleted scenes 
• Karaoke/sing along versions of the show's songs
• Censored/Uncensored game 
• Uncensored and extended versions of every episode 
• Commentary by Dave Jeser and Matt Silverstein (along with cast and crew) on "Clum Babies", "Super Nanny", "Terms of Endearment", and "A Very Special Drawn Together Afterschool Special" 
• Commentary on the commentary of "Terms of Endearment" 
• Behind the scenes interviews with the cast and creators 
• Commentary by Dave Jeser and Matt Silverstein (along with cast and crew) on "Freaks & Greeks", "Lost in Parking Space, Part One", "Drawn Together Babies", and "Breakfast Food Killer" 
• Original network promos from all three seasons 
• Get The DTs Drinking Game 
• Drawn Together: Truth or Dare? 
• Collectible Board Game 
• Sneak Peek of the Upcoming Movie

Drawn Together was dirty, used toilet humor, and threw sex and alcohol around like it was acceptable to do so. And yet it was pretty darn funny to see our modern cartoons, legends of cartoons, and heroes act in such manners. Now this show isn’t for everyone, but people who aren’t easily offended will love it. Drawn Together is the kind of late night humor in the ranks of South Park that Comedy Central is known for. It fit in their line-up perfectly, and if you like black humor mixed with raunchy comedy, then Drawn Together: The Complete Series: Party in Your Boxwill fit in your DVD collection perfectly.

Comics Online gives Drawn Together: The Complete Series: Party in Your Box 3.5 out of 5 drunk cartoon legends

DVD Review: Fame Seasons 1 & 2

Glee has quickly become one of the most popular new TV shows of the season, but it had a rather exceptional predecessor in the high school musical TV world: Fame! The movie Fame came out in 1980 and is one of the best movies set in high school ever made. It was nominated for six Academy Awards and won two, the Best Original Music Score and Best Original Song. It took place at the highly prestigious and challenging New York High School of Performing Arts, and starred a group of young actors and singers who played students at the school who dreamed of becoming musical stars. Due to the movie's overwhelming popularity, a TV series was made on NBC which ran from 1982 through 1987 before sadly getting canceled. Now the first two seasons are out on DVD, probably to help pump everyone up for the upcoming Fame remake, and it's time to relive the drama, the ambition, and the rocking soundtrack!

The show is about the singers, dancers, actors, and musicians at the high school in New York City. Students and teachers alike have their own storylines, usually butting heads together, because ego and ambition have a way of causing trouble between very talented people. Beyond that, it's also a teenage drama with plenty of romantic entanglements and broken hearts. This is very much an 80's kind of show, with everything from the slang to the clothing marking the time period. Famous actress/choreographer Debbie Allen stars as teacher Lydia Grant, and other major teachers include English teacher Elizabeth Sherwood (Carol Mayo Jenkins) and snarky Benjamin Shorofsky (Albert Hague). The kids are really the stars, however, and this ensemble cast has new girl Julie Miller (Lori Singer), diva Coco Hernandez (Erica Gimpel), dorky Montgomery MacNeil (P.R. Paul), temperamental Leroy Johnson (Gene Anthony Ray), and elusive Bruno Martelli (Lee Curreri).

 

Each hour long episode consists of a major plot, a few character side plots, and at least two musical numbers. The show itself was pretty fresh and edgy, although it could fall back on teenage melodrama from time to time, but it was the music and soundtrack which really sold the show. The acting wasn't always exceptional; much of the time it felt a little awkward and wooden, but who cared when they could sing like angels or dance for hours? The kids of Fame struggled with identity, sex, pressure, and being scorned for their gifts, but they were beloved by the TV audience ... and by the Emmy's (9 wins)!

 

The DVD set comes with all 38 episodes in the first two seasons, but unfortunately very little else. There is a quick "Fame: Then & Now" featurette about the movie and the remake from Debbie Allen, but that's pretty much it. This is disappointing. The movie and the series were majorly popular in their time, inspiring soundtracks and on tour concerts; you would expect some of the cast to have things to say about their experience! No commentary on any of the episodes? No small documentary or behind the scenes? We don't necessarily need anything shot from the set, since extras were not as popular in the 80's, but surely they could have rounded up the crew or cast to talk about it now. In essence it feels like this set was churned out quickly to come out just in time for the remake of Fame on September 25th, which is understandable but a little disappointing. The TV show won Golden Globes and deserved more attention.

Beyond that, however, it was a true pleasure to see the first two seasons again. There was magic in that show, in the concept and the execution, and it deserves to be remembered. Who knows, if the new movie becomes popular enough we could see the return of Fame on television. If you were a fan of the movie or show, this is definitely worth picking up, and if you never got a chance to see it the first time around check it out.

ComicsOnline.com gives Fame Seasons 1 and 2 on DVD 4 lovely arias out of 5.

DVD Review: Flight of the Conchords: The Complete Second Season

Flight of the Conchords is one of those shows that, though many of your friends may be into it as well, still feels like it’s “your show”. The series is based around New Zealand’s comedy-folk-hip-hop duo, Flight of the Conchords, and their struggles to make it big (or play a paying gig) in New York. What sets Flight of the Conchords apart from other comedy TV shows is the plot-relevant music videos seamlessly intertwined into the story of each episode.
The second season finds Bret and Jemaine miraculously worse off than they were in the previous episodes. They go into the red financially due to splurging on a teacup, fight over girls who want nothing to do with either of them and continue to be harassed by their geographical enemies, the Australians. The second season of Flight of the Conchords doesn’t hold up to the brilliance and rewatchability of the first but is far from disappointing. The first season, and the songs that accompany it, may be hailed as classic for years to come, making it hard for the newer episodes to stay as persistently awesome.
 ***This is where I didn’t know exactly what to write so I made a drink and rewatched a couple episodes***

Actually, this show is totally awesome through and through. Bret and Jermaine stay entertaining through the entire course of the show with the supporting characters remaining tirelessly clever. Sure, a lot of the first season songs were better than this season, but it really is a great show and after watching the first season, you’ll hunger for more novelty folk songs written by uncomfortable, innocent foreigners struggling to get by in the shadiness of New York.
Extras:
The bonus features on the set are great, despite lacking potentially hilarious commentary. They include the standard deleted scenes and outtakes as well as a documentary about the origins of the Flight of the Conchords TV series. The New Zealand Consulate Meetings with Murray & Greg featurette shows what life is like in the day job of the Conchords’ manager, Murray Hewitt, in the rare occasions that he isn’t holding a band meeting on the company dime. The highlight of the bonus features is Dave’s Pawn Shop Commercials which feature the Conchords’ friend Dave rapping in low budget commercials for his family-owned pawn shop.
Overall:
I say buy it. When it comes to your DVD collection, nothing beats having box sets of shows that can be watched again and again. In fact, buy the first season too. Also, see them in concert when they come to a town near you. (This is the first time in my ComicsOnline career that I have flat-out said to buy something without any qualifications.)

ComicsOnline gives Flight of the Conchords: The Complete Second Season 4.5 out of 5 incorrect pronunciations of the letter “E”.

DVD Review: Freaks and Geeks Yearbook Edition

High school is hard for everyone. It's a time in your life where you really start to figure out who you are and try to define yourself. The biggest trick is figuring it out while fitting in with the rest of the school. The hit TV series Freaks and Geeks from comedy mastermind Judd Apatow (The 40 Year Old Virgin, Knocked Up, and Superbad) explores the trials and tribulations that we all must face. Shout Factory has just released one of the greatest TV on DVD collections to date as Freaks and Geeks: Yearbook Edition. This set includes the entire 18 episode series which ran from 1999-2000. The realistic and honest take on high school the and inherent problems that we all go through defined this series and sets it above the rest.

Cast
This series included many breakout performances from current movie and TV stars we all know and love including:

James Franco (Spider-Man, Pineapple Express)
Seth Rogan (Knocked Up, Superbad, Pineapple Express)
Jason Segel (Forgetting Sarah Marshall)
Linda Cardellini (Scooby-Doo, ER)
John Francis Daley (Waiting, Spin City)

Episode Highlights
The first four episodes will get you hooked easily. Every moment is something you can easily relate to. We have all had these moments and now they are captured on disc!

"Pilot"- Lindsay Weir, a Junior in high school, is trying to find a new place in school as she is tired of the same goodie-two-shoes friends. When an opportunity to hang out with Daniel (Franco) arises she takes a chance and hangs out with his group of friends. Daniel's friends are comprised of "Freaks"- Nick (Segel), Ken (Rogan) and Kim (Busy Philips). While Lindsay is trying to find her place, her Freshman brother Sam (Daley) is trying to escape the clutches of a bully who just won't leave him alone. Now Sam must find a way to fight his battle and not let his other geeky friends down.

"Beers and Weirs"- When the Weir parents are out of town, the children decide to have a kegger. Daniel invites some extra people over and the party gets a bit out of control. Sam and his friends decide to switch the beer with non-alcohol beer (which they purchase from Grandma's Boy star Allen Covert).

"Tricks and Treats"- Lindsay was supposed to spend Halloween at home with her mom handing out treats but opts to hang out with Daniel and the gang instead to cause some mischief, much to her mom's dismay. Sam and his friends decide that they aren't too old to go trick or treating. Along the way Daniel convinces Lindsay to egg passing trick-or-treaters and Sam gets caught in the cross hairs.

"Tests and Breasts"- In an attempt to help Daniel out with a math test Lindsay cheats in order to help him pass...but the cheating doesn't go unnoticed and now she and Daniel have the possibilities of becoming suspended! Sam and the gang have to sit through Sex Ed with their gym teacher (as played by Tom Wilson aka BIFF TANNEN from Back to the Future). Sam has a lot of questions and Daniel offers to help him and gives him a different type of film to watch. Sam then goes back to Biff to ask him questions about what was in the video and what is considered normal sexual behavior.

DVD Extras
-Table Readings of "Kim Kelly is my Friend", "I'm With the Band", and "Girlfriends and Boyfriends".

-Auditions from The Freaks and The Geeks

-Deleted Scenes

-Raw Footage

-Photo Galleries

-Thanks, Goodbye

Set Extras
Now as I said, this is one of the best TV on DVD sets that has been released. Why is that? Because the entire set is in yearbook format. Like it is literally in the shape of a 1980-1981 Yearbook from McKinley High. Upon opening the book you see that the interior covers are full of signatures and best wishes from the characters! The first feature in the book is a letter from Co-Creator Paul Feig. Judd Apatow then takes time to answer some frequently asked questions.We are then treated to a series of behind the scenes production photos of the cast and crew. One of my favorite segments included in this yearbook is a story that was printed in the LA times about Judd entitled, "How I Got Kicked Out Of High-School". The book then concludes with a detailed description of each episode and the DVDs themselves.

Overall
There has never been a set like this. The time and effort and dedication that went into this series is demonstrated a thousand times through the quality of this set. This isn't just a collection of episodes, it's any fan's dream. It is more than a guide to Freaks and Geeks, it is a Bible to the series. The series has taken the basic problems associated with being a highschooler and immortalized them on film for all to see. It is also worth noting that Judd Apatow went on to create Fox's Undeclared, which featured Seth Rogen and Jason Segel in a college environment. That series too took the drama and life lessons we go through in college and made a series that everyone could relate to. Why were these shows canceled after one season? Various reasons including schedule changes and cuts in air time caused this show to be shelved before its time. The good news is now we can relive the greatness of this show in the best way possible. If you have never seen this show I highly urge you to spend the money and the time and watch it. It is truly worth it.

ComicsOnline gives Freaks and Geeks: Yearbook Edition 5 out of 5 high school dramas.
 

DVD Review: Fringe Season 1

Last year's freshmen shows included time travel, motorcycle gangs, strange happenings with normal explanations, a detective with powers of observation, an author running with the police, and science gone crazy.

The cast of Fringe (l - r) : Lance Riddick, John Noble, Blair Brown, Kirk Acevedo, Anna Torv, Mark Valley, Joshua Jackson, and Jasika Nicole.

Fringe is about FBI Agent Olivia Dunham (Anna Torv - Heavenly Sword) on special detail as the handler for scientist Walter Bishop (John Noble - Lord of the Rings: Return of the King) and his son Peter Bishop (Joshua Jackson - Dawson's Creek). The season begins with a commercial airliner that lands with all passengers and crew mysteriously dead. This prompts Olivia to coerce Peter to allow her to check Walter out of the asylum he’s been a guest of for the past 17 years. It seems that one of Walters past experiments is eerily similar to this occurrence, and Olivia thinks that he may be able to help solve the case. Walter is so helpful a special unit is started consisting of Olivia, Walter, Peter, along with Agent Astrid Farnsworth (Jasika Nicole - Take the Lead), and headed up by Agent Phillip Broyles (Lance Riddick - Lost). Add in Agent John Scott (Mark Valley - Boston Legal), lover, traitor, coma victim (?), and Massive Dynamics executive Nina Sharp (Blair Brown - Space Cowboys) who may be involved in the weird science that’s going on.

Fringe has sci-fi, thriller, horror, espionage, mad scientists, covert operations, and conspiracies. Weird science is the main culprit for the group's assignments. Walter had something to do with most of it, and when he didn’t have an active part in it, he knew the person who did. It seems that in his heyday Walter dabbled in many experimental processes, mostly genetic. It also seems that a variety of associates and rivals cannibalized his work after his lab was closed and he was institutionalized. There’s rapid aging, human and animal mutations, killer insects, viruses, computer viruses, matter manipulation, matter teleportation, mind control, alternate dimensions, and conspiracies. And a cow, Gene.

Fringe started the season a bit confusing, as there were so many players that you couldn’t figure out who the bad guys are. Once they settled into their rhythm the plots and subplots sorted themselves out, and by the season finale it all makes sense, for now.

Special features include:
- Commentaries on selected episodes
- Roberto Orci’s Production Diary
- Evolution: The Genesis of Fringe
- The Casting of Fringe
- Gene the Cow
- Behind the Science of Fringe
- Unusual Side Effects: Gag Reel
- Fringe Visual Effects

So why should you be watching Fringe? First, though they may be similar, this is not an X-Files rehash. It would be easy to make comparisons between the two, but Fringe feels as fresh as X-Files did in the beginning. Second, like any above average show it boils down to a balance of writing and casting. Look at his role as Denethor to picture John Noble, as the genius, mad scientist, Walter. Joshua Jackson is believable as Peter, the abandoned son looking for his father's approval and now has a captive subject. The relative newcomer Anna Torv plays Olivia as an authoritarian with an open mind, once she is introduced to the weirdness. And don’t forget Jasika Nicole as the lab assistant, who deals with Walter continually and has some of the best lines in the show. This is why you should be watching Fringe.

ComicsOnline gives Fringe 5 mad scientists out of 5 evil geniuses.

DVD Review: G.I. JOE The Complete Series

This box set released by Shout Factory includes two five-episode mini-series that kicked off the show, along with the two seasons produced by Sunbow and Marvel Productions. Each DVD features colorful original art from the toy packages. The set doesn’t include the DIC-produced third season, which was no loss in my opinion, it does leave an empty slot for the 1987 GI Joe straight-to-video movie.

-95 episodes on a set of 17 DVDs
-A collectible 60-page book featuring special introduction by actor Seth Green
-1-GB “Dog Tag” Flash Drive (USB 2.0)
-2 G.I. Joe “Silent” Comics
-Arashikage and Cobra Rub-On Tattoos

-8 new retrospective featurettes including two that appear only on this set - a conversation with Larry Hama and a voice cast reunion
-The exclusive voice cast reunion features (in alphabetical order):

-25 archival Hasbro toy commercials
-G.I. Joe’s original 1963 Toy Fair presentation
-"Knowing Is Half The Battle" PSAs
-Printable script for "Jungle Trap"
-Live-action fan film "Battle For The Serpent Stone"

Overall
This 35-hour collection may seem like a major investment but it certainly feels like it's worth it when you open the sturdy metal-edged footlocker. Any die-hard Joe fan will love the love the presentation of the set, the abundance of episodes and all the great bonus features. I know I do. Yo Joe!

ComicsOnline gives G.I. Joe the Complete Series 5 out of 5 reasons why knowing is half the battle!

DVD Review: G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero Season 1.1

DVD Review: Glee Season 1 Volume 1

 

 

Major storylines include Will's wife and her fake pregnancy, the real pregnancy of Finn's girlfriend Quinn (Dianna Agron), although the father is Finn's best friend Puck (Mark Salling), and the relentless hatred for Glee Club by cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester (Jane Lynch). The show is funny, snarky, sometimes cruel, often awkward, and it has some moments of being a little too hokey and preachy, but the fans either love that part or learn to forgive it. The first season is all about the club's rise from nothing to a serious contender for the State Sectionals, and the struggles they have along the way with one another and their own problems.

The show itself is extremely well written and humorous, with exceptional comedic performances from all of the leads, but let's face it, the thing that makes Glee stand out is the music. The singles from each episode are released on iTunes every week and are downloaded greedily almost immediately. The CD came out and was very successful. Songs that you've always loved before from Queen, The Police, Kanye West, and Rihanna are given new treatment from the show's talented performers. The cast sings, dances, acts, and they are just bubbling with talent and enthusiasm. It's impossible not to get sucked in with them.

The DVD comes with all thirteen episodes from the first season, including the early aired pilot, and with a bunch of small extras. Most of the extras have already been released by FOX as they prepared to release Glee, but they're still all great to see here. There's full audition pieces from Lea Michele and Amber Riley, two special behind-the-scenes look at casting and the show's start, dance boot camp information, a few cute clips of Jane Lynch, fun video footage of the stars telling you things you didn't know about them, and the best part: video diaries! Most of the cast went to a press junket in New York City when the show was about to premiere and they were asked to take video footage of what they did. I could watch those videos over and over, because it really shows you how warm and friendly the actors are, and how special the crew really is.

For anyone who loved the show, this is a must-have DVD set. Yes, they probably could have waited until the show was over, and yes this is likely just a grab for more money to milk the popularity of Glee, but fans won't care. They want the episodes and extras, and they want them now! If you haven't tried out this excellent, creative show, this is the perfect way to get caught up before it returns in April. Give Glee a shot, you won't be sorry. Glee Season 1 Volume 1 is out in stores now!

ComicsOnline gives Glee Season 1 Volume 1 five out of five beautiful harmonies.

Buy Glee Season 1 Volume 1 at Amazon.com now 

DVD Review: Happiness is… Peanuts: Snow Days

DVD Review: Human Target - The Complete First Season

"I work with a cover, blend in to the background, let you appear vulnerable so the threat reveals itself and then eliminate the threat."

If you have a problem, if no one else can help, and if you can find them, maybe you can hire...Christopher Chance! Based on the DC Comics series, Human Target follows the adventures of Christopher Chance (Mark Valley), the man you turn to when your life is at stake. Chance is a man of many talents, and is an expert at blending into the background to seek out the threat and literally become a human target. Now the Complete First Season of Human Target is available to own on DVD!
 

Episode Highlights:
"Pilot": Battlestar Galactica's Tricia Helfer guest stars as Stephanie Dobbs, the designer of a new California Bullet Train. After an attempt is made on her life, she turns to Chance, Winston (Chi McBride from Pushing Daisies), and Guerrero (Jackie Earle Haley from Watchmen) for their unique services. Chance accompanies Stephanie on the new train as her translator, and the two uncover the threat of an on board assassin. Before they have a chance to identify him, the assassin puts in motion a plan to derail the train! Now Chance must find a way to save the girl and the train before time runs out. This episode also features a guest appearance by Donnelly Rhodes (Battlestar Galactica) and Danny Glover (Leathal Weapon).

"Rewind": Chance takes to the sky as he is tasked with protecting a hacker named Casper who has discovered a skeleton key to the internet. With this code anyone could bypass all security and access any digital information with ease. While in the air, Chase faces off against Casper's would-be assassin, only to have the plane significantly damaged in the process. Chance and Winston must act fast to save the plane and all the passengers with some out of the box thinking. This episode also features a guest appearance by David Nykl from Stargate Atlantis.

"Lockdown": Alias alumni Kevin Weisman guest stars as Martin Gleason, a weapon designer who is being held against his will. Chance is hired to break into a top secret government building and rescue Gleason. Standing in their way is Leonard Kreese (Mitch Pileggi from Stargate Atlantis and The X-Files) who is in charge of building security and is responsible for keeping Gleason hostage. Chance must not only find a way of breaking into the facility, but must get Gleason out safely before his work falls into the wrong hands. This episode also furthers the mythology of the series by acknowledging a bit of Chance's past and the person that he worked for before his current occupation. Who is "The Old Man" and what did Chance originally do for a living?

"Christopher Chance": The season finale gives fans the answers they have been waiting for! We finally learn how Chance, Winston and Gurrerro came together. Without spoiling too much of this fastastic episode, we learn that the name "Christopher Chance" has been passed from person to person (a similar concept to The Phantom) and that the previous owner of that name happened to look a lot like the Six Million Dollar Man (Lee Majors). We also learn more about the first case that Chance and Winson take, and the sad fate that befalls Katherine Walters (played by Dollhouse Alumni Amy Acker). Do not miss this episode!

Special Features:
-Confidential Informant- From Page to Screen with Cast and Creators: Check out this awesome featurette that explains the process of adapting the comic to the current TV incarnation!

-Full Contact Television- What it takes to unleash all that On-Screen action: Human Target features some very impressive stunt work, now go behind the scenes of the hit show to see what the team goes through to bring the action to your living room.

-Unaired Scenes

-Pilot Commentary by Mark Valley, Chi McBride, and Executive Producers Jonathan Steinberg and Peter Johnson

-Audio Mix Enchanced from Broadcast

Overall:
Human Target brings the action and adventure back to TV in a way that is reminiscent of past shows like The A-Team, Seven Days, and The Sentinel. Mark Valley steps into the role of Christoper Chance with charisma and charm. Jackie Earle Haley excels in the role of Guerrero, which is drastically different than his prior roles in Watchmen and Friday the 13th. Chi McBride's Winston be easily compared with his last role on Pushing Daisies, and while the two characters share a lot in common, it is obvious that Winston is willing to go further to protect people. One of the most exciting parts of watching Human Target is trying to find all of the guest stars! The special apperances by the various alumni from Battlestar Galactica, Alias, and Stargate Atlantis adds to the weekly fun of this action series. Human Target will return to Fox in November for Season Two, but until then you should rewatch the first season and keep an eye out for all of the familiar faces.

ComicsOnline gives Human Target- The Complete First Season- 4 out of 5 shows with amazing guest stars!

Get your copy of Human Target- The Complete First Season on DVD at Amazon.

Stay tuned to ComicsOnline for more information on Human Target Season 2!

DVD Review: Iron Man- The Complete 1994 Animated Series Collection

I AM IRON MAN!

During the early 90's, Marvel had several animated series on TV which featured a vast array of characters from their library. Following the success of X-Men: The Animated Series and Spider-Man: The Animated Series, they decided to bring the adventures of Iron Man and the Fantastic Four to the small screen in a programming block called the "Marvel Action Hour". These two shows would feature not only the title characters, but featured many heroes from Marvel comics in cameo roles. With the release of Iron Man 2 in theaters, Disney has released Iron Man- The Complete 1994 Animated Series Collection on DVD for the first time ever!

This Iron Man series featured many classic Iron Man villains including The Mandarin, MODOK, Blacklash, Dreadnight, Whirlwind, Ultimo, Fin Fang Foom and more.  It also featued a great supporting cast of the West Coast Avengers aka Forceworks that included War Machine, Hawkeye, Scarlet Witch, Century and Spider-Woman. The most notable voice-actors on this project were James Avery (The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) and Tom Kane (Wolverine and the X-Men and Star Wars -The Clone Wars). The first season of Iron Man was animated by a company called Rainbow Animation Group. The quality of animation was severely lacking in comparison to Spider-Man and X-Men and there are several low budget choices that were made which are apparent throughout the season. The most noticeable problem with the show was the use of poorly done CGI during Tony's "armor up" sequence. This footage was used almost every time Tony changed to Iron Man, whether he was using the suitcase armor or a set from the armory. It was bad enough that they kept using stock footage instead of showing him climbing into each individual suit of armor, but the locations where he changed all reverted back to that stock footage regardless of the situation. Additionally, there are many moments during the first season where Tony is conversing with Jim Rhodes (aka War Machine) and the voice switches from James Avery to Jim Cummings (MODOK)...which is very frustrating since the two actors sound nothing alike. A lot of these problems are corrected in the second season because the animation was done by Koko Enterprises. This change created a noticeable leap in animation quality and gave Tony the upgrade that he deserved. The second season had a much darker tone and featured stories derived from the rich history of the comic.

Overall:
I have fond memories of waking up as a kid and watching the Marvel Action Hour featuring Iron Man and Fantastic Four (seriously, the Fantastic Four theme occasionally gets stuck in my head). The second season of the show really stands out in my mind as being the better of the two, but it was great to re-watch each episode because they featured good interpretations of Iron Man's history and characters. If you enjoyed any of the 90s' X-Men, Spider-Man or Fantastic Four animated series, you'll definitely enjoy the 90's Animated Iron Man series.

ComicsOnline gives Iron Man- The Complete 1994 Animated Series Collection 4 out of 5 things that remind me of my childhood.

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DVD Review: Justice League The Complete Animated Series

When the world needs help, humanity turns to the Justice League! The combined might of Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Green Lantern, and Martian Manhunter stop the evil of the DC Universe in 91 thrilling adventures, now available in one complete series set.

"Secret Origins": Watch as Earth's Heroes come together to stop an impending invasion from Mars!

"The Enemy Below": Aquaman is in trouble and only the Justice League can help him! Gone is the short haired, classic rendition of our aquatic hero, only to be replaced with the long haired, grizzly version from the 90's. This episode features a new version of the story of how Aquaman loses his hand!

"Injustice for All": Lex Luthor makes his first JL apperance as he learns that he will soon die from Kryptonite poisioning! He gathers The Shade, Solomon Grundy, Star Sapphire, Copperhead, The Ultra-Humanite, and Cheetah to take down Superman and his new group. Lex forgot to include the Joker on his roster, and when the Clown Prince of Crime feels left out, things really start to get interesting.

"Twlight": Darkseid and Brainiac team up to take revenge on Superman for the events from Superman: The Animated Series. The team joins forces with the New Gods to stop Darkseid from destroying the universe!

"Starcrossed": Hawkman and the rest of the Thanagarians arrive on Earth in this three part saga! Startling revelations about Hawkgirl come to light and we learn that her arrival on Earth wasn't as much of an accident as once believed. This episode features the best moment of the series demonstrating how once again, Batman knows everything. The Flash is hesitant to reveal their secret identities to each other and Bruce has a fantastic bit of dialogue.

"The Return": Amazo returns to Earth and now the greatest heroes must join forces with Lex Luthor to create a weapon to stop this nearly omnipotent villain. With the help of the Atom, Lex rushes against the clock to find a way to stop the advanced android.

"Ultimatium": The Ultimen make their first apperance! This new team containing newly updated version of classic SuperFriends characters like Long Shadow (Apache Chief), Wind Dragon (Samurai), Juice (Black Vulcan), Downpour and Shifter (The Wonder Twins). There is more than meets the eye with this new team as they have a mysterious connection to Amanda Waller and Cadmus.

"The Once and Future Thing": Batman Beyond returns to the DC Animated Universe! A time traveling villain starts messing with history and Batman, Green Lantern, and Wonder Woman are caught in the crossfire. These three heroes must team up with heroes from different times to face off against this villain and fix history. These two episodes also feature cameos by Old Bruce Wayne, Warhawk and Old Static Shock from Batman Beyond, and Jonah Hex and Batlash from DC's Old West.

"Task Force X": The Suicide Squad make their animated apperance! Cadmus recruits the Clock King (last seen in Batman: TAS), Deadshot, Captain Boomerang, and Plastique to steal a mystical suit of armor from the Justice League.

"Question Authority", "Flashpoint", "Panic in the Sky", "Divided We Fall"- These four episodes tie together into the best storyline of the series. Many things have been happening during this season of JLU and the Question begins to put the pieces together. What has Cadmus been doing behind the scenes? What is Lex Luthor up to? Why is the world suddenly scared of the Justice League? This all leads up to the climatic battle with Lex and his new ally in "Divided We Fall".

"Epilogue": This episode acts as a series finale for Batman Beyond, and a fitting season finale for the Cadmus Storyline of Justice League Unlimited. This episode was meant to be the culmination of years of storylines from Batman, Superman, Batman Beyond and Justice League. We learn the fates of Terry McGinnis, Bruce Wayne, Amanda Waller and the future version of the JLU. The final scene of the episode was meant to mirror the opening to Batman: The Animated Series episode "On Leather Wings" as the series producers were not sure if they would be getting a pickup for another season.

Special Features:

·       Eight Creator Commentaries

·       Eight Bonus Featurettes including:

o   Inside JUSTICE LEAGUE - Creator’s Panel Discussion

o   Storyboards: The Blueprint for Justice

o   The Look of the League: Character Design

o   JUSTICE LEAGUE - The First Mission Never-Before-Seen Promo

o   JUSTICE LEAGUE Declassified - Phil Lamarr (The Voice of GREEN LANTERN) Takes You Behind the Scenes with the Show’s Creative Team

o   And Justice For All- The Process of Revamping the Series with New Characters and a New Creative Direction

o   Cadmus: Exposed – Mark Hamill and Series Creative Personnel Discuss This Popular Series Story Arc

o   JUSTICE LEAGUE Chronicles: Series Writers, Producers, and Directors Discuss Their Favorite Moments Among Final Season

·       Two Music Extras:

o   Themes of Justice – Choose Your Favorite JLU Musical Theme Audio Tracks

o   Music-Only Audio Track for the Final Episode Destroyer.

Overall:
Justice League proved that DC can perfectly handle an ensemble cast of well known heroes and do justice (pun intended) to each of the characters. The development and connections that came from the episodes listed above are just some of the many highlights from this series. The connections and throwbacks to past animated projects are great for fans and help to further establish the history of these characters. This set also contains an exclusive bonus disc with a feature called "Unlimited Reserve: Exploring the Depths of the DC Universe". The only complaint I have about the new Superman and Justice League sets is the inconsistency in the packaging. All three of the packages for Batman, Superman and Justice League Complete Series sets have a totally different look and thus don't display quite as nicely next to each other. I would have hoped that these sets would mirror the incredible packaging from Batman, but unfortunately, Batman cannot sit on the shelf next to its counterparts. This however, should not detract anyone from the purchase of the sets, as they are the cheapest releases of the series to date. If you are a fan of Bruce Timm, Batman, Superman, Justice League or any of these heroes, you must get this release.

ComicsOnline gives Justice League: The Complete Series  5 out of 5 finales to the DCAU.

DVD Review: Kröd Mändoon and the Flaming Sword of Fire

Brave, heroic, stupid.

 

The Feature

A long, long time ago in the far away Maconian Empire, there lived the brave and slightly stupid Krod Mandoon (Sean Maguire).  Followed by his gang of misfits, he set out on a quest to free his life-long mentor General Arcadius (Roger Allam) from the clutches of the tyrant, Chancellor Dongalor. Upon his rescue from Dongalor’s Prison, Arcadius tells Krod he is the chosen one.   From there, Krod acquires the flaming sword of fire and he and his troupe face countless numbers of ne’er do wells along with all sorts of fantastical creatures in their quest to bring down Chancellor Dongalor.

For those that have never seen the show, Krod is a hybrid of Robin Hood and The Three Stooges with plenty of swordplay and magic as well as slapstick humor and pratfalls thrown in.  The supporting cast features hottie India de Beaufort (One Tree Hill) as Aneka; comedian Kevin Hart as Zezelryck, the wizard who can’t cast spells; Steve Speirs (Eragon, Pirates of the Caribbean) as Loquasto and Marques Ray as Bruce, the eccentric gay man.  Despite offering every available fantasy as well as modern stereotype, Krod doesn’t overly use these in its comedy and generally feels fresh with each episode.

The series is only six episodes long with the first and second rolled together as the pilot.  “O Biclops, Where Art Thou?” was my favorite although it was hard to choose because all the episodes were really great.  Biclops has the team retrieving the Bloodstone of Alluvia from a terrible Cyclops in order for Krod and Aneka to join the Elite Resistance Council.  The Cyclops turns out to be a bisexual freak, who parties with the crew before trying to imprisoning them so he can “sex” and eat them.  It’s definitely original and incredibly funny throughout.

A series like this needs a badass villain and Krod gets one with Matt Lucas as Chancellor Dongalor.  He is ridiculously evil as well as just plain ridiculous.  Better still, he does it all with a cocky flair that is hilarious to watch.  It’s not unusual to see him kill an elderly man only to turn around and ask his daughter out on a date, or have a boy killed and his dog turned into a mop because they couldn’t make a pagan girl cry.  If any of that sounds crazy to you, then you’re right where you need to be.  That’s how absurd Lucas’s character is in this series and he’s the reason to keep watching it.

Special Features

Krod Mandoon and the Flaming Sword of Fire on DVD comes as a single disc DVD collection with the feature as well as the following:

• Behind the Scenes with Kevin Hart featurette
• Cast Interviews
• Outtakes
• Deleted and Extended Scenes

The cast interviews runs about 10 minutes and bounce between vast members as they talk about their characters and those they work with.  It’s great to see them having a good time with each other and it’s clear they loved making this show. The Kevin Hart featurette is short and has him running around making fun of the other cast members.  It has some truly funny moments and is definitely worth a look.  For a show that’s already as ridiculous as this, the outtakes are even more so.  Running about seven minutes, this is the best of the features and is worth multiple viewings. 

Overall

It’s a shame that 2 million viewers an episode isn’t enough to get a show renewed because Krod Mandoon and the Flaming Sword of Fire is a unique and incredible series that offers a lot to love and is worth watching again and again.  If you somehow missed this previously, now’s your chance to get it all in its entirety.  Don’t pass this one up.

ComicsOnline gives Krod Mandoon and the Flaming Sword of Fire on DVD 4.5 out of 5 self-proclaimed idiots.
 

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DVD Review: Legend of the Seeker Season 1

The Legend of the Seekerseries is based on the Sword of Truth books by Terry Goodkind, which so far consists of 12 novels starting with Wizards First Rule in 1994, and going to the most recent publication of The Law of Nines in 2009.   
The story is built around a prophesy of the rise of a Seeker, the first to rise in 1,000 years, and his destiny to conquer Darken Rahl (Craig Parker), the evil ruler of The Midlands.  Richard Cypher (Craig Horner), the adopted son of a poor woodsman, finds himself suddenly thrust into a destiny to become the legendary Seeker of the prophesy.  Joined by the Confessor, Kahlan Amnell (Bridget Regan) and Wizard of the First Order, Zeddicus Zu'l Zorander (Bruce Spence), Richard travels to The Midlands in hopes of fulfilling the prophesy.
Never having read any of the books Legend of the Seekeris based on, I wasn’t really sure what to expect of the series, but I also had the advantage of not having any preconceived notions.  Quite a few friends of mine who were fans of the books had been anticipating the release of the show, so I had been interested to see it for some time.  My initial response to the two-part opening episode was, “Uh-oh, I’ve seen this plot before. Many times, in fact.”, as the story unfolded and characters reacted in very predictable ways. The combination of the promise never to judge a freshman series based only on the opening episodes and the pedigree of this series, kept me watching.  Not only is the Legend of the Seekerbased on a wildly successful series of best-selling books, the TV series was created by Sam Raimi, creator of the Evil Dead and Spider-man films, and all 22 of the first season episodes credit Terry Goodkind as the main writer.  Given all that, I allowed the series the benefit of the doubt and was ultimately glad that I did.

By the third disk the show had hit its stride, with the actors having settled believably into their roles and the episodes having taken on more interesting plots.  The show has all the elements essential to a successful fantasy series, believably human characters rising to the struggle between good and evil, magic, monsters, sword-fights, deliciously evil minions, and epic romance.  Combine that with stunningly beautiful New Zealand as a setting, and Emmy Award winning music, and suddenly you’re reaching for the next disk in anticipation.
The bonus features “Words of Truth: A Conversation with Terry Goodkind” and “Forging the Sword: Crafting a Legend” were enlightening looks at the creative force behind the series.  Ultimately, I was very glad I stuck with the show and I’m eagerly awaiting the premier of season two on November 7^th!
Studio: ABC Studios
DVD Release Date: October 13, 2009
Run Time: 550 minutes
Bonus Features
• Forging the Sword: Crafting a Legend
• Words of Truth: A Conversation with Terry Goodkind
• Deleted Scenes
• Audio Commentaries
ComicsOnline gives Legend of the Seeker 3 ½ blasts of wizard fire out of 5.

DVD Review: Legends of the Superheroes

Biff!

Holy Pop Icons, Batman!

In 1966 Adam West and Burt Ward began their 120 episodes of Batman on television. Cancelled after only three seasons, Batman became an icon whose camp pop culture has still not lost its lustre even now over forty years later. From the Batusi to "Holy [something], Batman!" the show's tropes will live forever.

Getting the show on disc has proved problematic, as legal troubles have thus far prevented a DVD release. We can get the Batman Movie from 1966 on DVD, but that's all the 60s Batman we could get. ...Until Now.

Meanwhile, at the Hall of Justice...

By the late 1970s we had an even wider representation of DC's superheroes including Superman: The Movie, The Wonder Woman live action show and The Super Friends on Saturday morning cartoons. Combine the wider range of DC Universe characters of The Super Friends with the live action camp of Batman from the previous decade and we get...

Legends of the Superheroes

Legends of the Superheroes premiered starring Adam West as Batman, Burt Ward as Robin, and Frank Gorshin as The Riddler, but truely is a ensemble show. This pair of specials originally aired January 18th and 25th, 1979 on NBC.

The first episode was "The Challenge", which included a Super Friends-like Justice League Including not only Batman and Robin, but also the Flash, Green Lantern, Hawkman, Black Canary, Huntress, and Captain Marvel. The heroes had gathered at their lair to announce the retirement of Scarlet Cyclone, who would now me known as Retired Man (a joke that was kicked around several times and didn't get any funnier).

Meanwhile, at the Hall of Doom...

The super villains were gathered together themselves. Led my Mordru, this team included The Riddler, Dr. Sivana, Sinestro, Weather Wizard, Giganta, and Solomon Grundy. Dr. Sivana had created a doomsday weapon that would count down for an hour and then destroy every living being on earth except the villain team, but they wanted to taunt the heroes of course, so they left the heroes clues as to where they could be found.

Naturally, hilarity ensues and obsurdities, puns and sight gags rule the day until the heroes find the villains' lair, push the on/off button on the doomsday device and round up the villains.

The following week, The whole cast returns to the Batcave and are joined by the Atom, Hawkman's mother, Aunt Minerva, and Ghetto Man (it was still the 70s). Ed McMahon hosts this bizarre superhero variety show "The Roast".

Special Features

The only extras on this disc are a handful of outtakes and extended scenes.

Overall

Legends of the Superheroes brought the Bat-camp of the 1960s back to our televisions one last time in 1979 and now almost thirty-two years later it's ready to come back. Are you ready for Adam West and Burt Ward along with a cheesy live action Justice League recorded on early video tape for that authentic vintage skin flick look? Do you long for the days of Laugh-in and Sonny and Cher, but wish they had done super hero themed episodes? Well then, this might be your lucky year, as Legends of the Superheroes brings us all that and more in one convenient DVD. Pow!

ComicsOnline gives Legends of the Superheroes 3 out of 5 Holy blasts from the past, Batman!

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DVD Review: Less Than Perfect Season One

Have you ever wondered about what a star has done, or where they went? What happened to Andy Dick after News Radio? Was Sherri Shepherd interesting before The View?  Who does Zachary Levi play on TV now? Eric Roberts did what before The Expendables and Sharktopus (would I lie about something like that?)? Well, just watch Less Than Perfect to see the answers.

Less Than Perfect has a news company temp, Claudia “Claude” Casey (Sara Rue – Popular, The Big Bang Theory) filling in for the assistant to the company anchorman, Will Butler (Eric Roberts – The Dark Knight) on the coveted 22^nd floor. When Claude accepts Will’s offer of the permanent assistant job, not everyone shares her elation. Her friends from the 4^th floor, Ramona Platt (Sherri Shepherd – The View) and Owen Kronsky (Andy Dick – News Radio) are worried she’ll change and not want to pal around with them, and new snotty co-workers Kipp Steadman (Zachary Levi – Chuck) and Lydia Weston (Andrea Parker – JAG) are afraid she won’t change. What ensues is the age old struggle between the cool and the un-cool. Of course as Kipp and Lydia try to sabotage Claude, or simply look down their nose at Ramona and Owen, it always backfires. But as the season progresses, the two cliques begin to like each other. Every episode is good and there are many high points in this season. Claude gets tipsy at the Christmas party and tells Will about her crush on him, Lydia falls in love with Claude’s brother, Claude has an office romance, Will gets engaged and Owen becomes a baby daddy.

What makes this show enjoyable are the cast and the writing. The show is written in such a way that no one is traumatized. When someone is the butt of a joke or the tables are turned, it all seems like a good joke is played and no one gets hurt - truly feel-good show. But don’t forget the all-star cast! Sherri Shepherd is a great outspoken, over-the-top party girl with a heart of gold. Andy Dick as the quirky nerd with two mothers speaks for itself. Andrea Parker and Zachary Levi skillfully play the not-so-fast-track snobs. The surprise is Sara Rue as the naïve, nice girl with a quick wit and a unique delivery style that makes this show a joy to watch and re-watch.

There are no Special Features.

ComicsOnline gives Less Than Perfect Season One 4 temp jobs out of 5.

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DVD Review: Leverage Season 2

"The rich and powerful, they take what they want. We steal it back for you. Sometimes bad guys make the best good guy. We provide Leverage."

That's the voice over to the opening credits of every episode of Leverage on TNT, and it sets up the point of the show nicely. A group of talented thieves, con men, and criminals work together to help the downtrodden. They're an Ocean's 11 meets Robin Hood team, and I'll admit I was hooked on this show from the very first episode. As soon as I saw that Christian Kane from Angel was on it, I was intrigued. Then Gina Bellman from Coupling was in the cast, and I was spellbound. By the time I recognized Timothy Hutton from Ordinary People, it was already hooked in my brain as the next best television show on cable. And that's exactly what Leverage became.

The show stars Tim Hutton as Nathan Ford, a former insurance specialist who used to track down criminals and became one himself after the tragic death of his only son. The insurance company he worked for refused to help his family, so he became a bitter alcoholic, and when he had a chance to get revenge on them by stealing, he willingly did so. The first season, Nate struggled with his alcoholism and the idea of being the only 'honest man' in a gang of thieves. Then there was Sophie Devereaux (Gina Bellman), the best grifter in the world who had a spotty and slightly romantic past with Nate. While he never cheated on his wife with her, they always had a cat and mouse sexy game between them. She joined the team primarily for him, but found that the man he was then was not the man she fell in love with.

The hitter of the team, Eliot Spencer (Christian Kane), seemed like a brute at first, strong and dangerous and stoic, but over time the team takes away some of his armor. He's a gourmet cook, a former horse ranger, and he protects the members of his strange 'family' at any cost. Eliot often clashes with the youngest member of the team, Alec Hardison (Aldis Hodge). Hardison is the tech, a brilliant computer geek that provides support to the rest of the team and occasionally messes up because he's too busy playing World of Warcraft. Hardison has a serious crush on the last member of the team, the thief Parker (Beth Riesgraf). No last name known. Parker is strange, awkward, hates human interaction, and has ninja-like grace.

In the first season, the team struggled with their newfound positions as the good guys, and with their trust issues. They fought and bickered and saved innocent victims, and in the end they all went their separate ways. Season two starts out six months later, and the team comes back together. Unlike the first season when Nate was the driving force to get them together, this time the others beg Nate to come back. They became addicted to the challenges he provided, and while Nate refuses at first, he eventually gets drawn back in. The second season is all about their journey from being just a team to being more of a family, and Nate's eventual acceptance that he is now, for all intents and purposes, a criminal. The only flaw in this otherwise strong season is that Gina Bellman was forced to leave the show for a handful of episodes because of maternity leave. Sophie's presence is desperately missed, even with Jeri Ryan filling in for her role. They did fill it in nicely with the storyline and it makes the finale that much more emotional.

The DVD sets never fail to impress me, because they have commentary on every single episode of the show. Usually it is with the creators and directors, although occasionally a writer will be thrown in there. It is unfortunate to have no actors on the commentary, however. They might want think about that for season three. Still, the information given there is always fascinating. Extras also include a Q&A with the creators, a set tour with John Rogers, featurettes for the special effects and music, a spoof video with Aldis Hodge, and an excellent gag reel.

This review may seem gushy, but that's because the show has fanatic viewers. It's entertaining, funny, action packed, full of twists, and the drama is always handled carefully and not over the top. If you're looking for a summer show to get into, Leverage is an excellent choice. It comes back June 20th on TNT, and all of season one is on Netflix's Instant Watch if you want to start getting caught up.

ComicsOnline gives Leverage Season Two 5 long cons out of 5.

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DVD Review: Medium The Fifth Season

Medium (based on experiences of real-world psychic Allison DuBois) premiered in January of 2005 to strong numbers and garnered its star Patricia Arquette a Best Actress in a Drama Series Emmy. It has since survived scheduling chaos, moving from Monday to Wednesday and then back to Monday, And now with the current season, it's jumped to Friday and it's jumped from NBC to CBS, where it's been filmed all along. Fans like us at ComicsOnline are hoping that this will lend some stability and allow Medium to continue for another five seasons.

After five seasons, we've really grown to be a part of the DuBois family. As we've said on the ComicsOnline Podcast, despite the fact that this is about psychics, this is the most real family on television today. They look like real people, not some waifish Hollywood types, and beside the obvious supernatural plots, they have a very real mundane life as well. We've watched Allison (Patricia Arquette - A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors , True Romance), her husband Joe (Jake Weber - Dawn of the Dead 2004, The Haunting of Molly Hartley), raise their three daughters Ariel ( - The Brady Bunch in the White House, My Sister's Keeper), Bridget (Maria Lark - Medium), and Marie (Miranda & Madison Carabello - Medium). We've seen them grow up and discover that they have powers as well. We've gone to work with Allison and her boss District Attorney Manuel Davalos (Miguel Sandoval - Voyagers!, X-Files, Alias) and her police liason Detective Lee Scanlon (David Cubitt - TekWar, X-Files, Outer Limits) and his baby-mama Lynn (Tina DiJoseph - Medium). We've had great returning guest stars like the ghost of Agent Cooper (Kurtwood Smith - X-Files, Star Trek: Voyager, That '70s Show) and Cynthia Keener (Angelica Houston - Captain EO, The Addams Family, Addams Family Values)

Highlights:
Medium Season Five begins strong with "Soul Survivor" whose primary story was satisfactory, but the backup story about Bridget drawing naked pictures of her art teacher was hilarious. Season Five was overall the best yet, thanks in no small part to the creative team knowing their strengths and bringing back fan favorites: Agent Cooper and Cynthia Keener for an episode each. While I'm not at all a fan of episodes where Allison is taken over and is made by some ghost or other impetus to behave unlike herself such as she did in the episodes "...About Last Night" and "A Person of Interest" in Season Five, this season ended strong and left a great cliffhanger into Season Six. Some of my faves in Season Five include:

"Apocalypse... Now?"
Allison dreams about the end of the world, and a man who is protecting a teenage girl (Vanessa Lengies - Waiting) in his underground bunker, or is he?

"A Necessary Evil"
Ghostly Agent Cooper returns to try to help Allison, and possibly wreak some vigilante justice. Good thing he's non-corporeal, otherwise Allison might have to worry about her show becoming an issue of The Punisher. But if he's still a ghost, why is he racking up a body count anyway?

"Then... and Again"
By now plot devices of Allison jumping into her own body should be lame, But even without Cylon Cavil to guide her, her leaps are pretty fun.

"The Devil Inside, Part One and Two"
A psycho thinks Allison is a tool of the devil and God wants him to kill her. He finds her. This was one of the scariest arcs this show has ever had.

"How to Make a Killing in Big Business: Parts 1, 2 and 3"
This arc starts with some wish fulfillment, and then turns out too good to be true, as the cop who tormented Dr. House is too rich for his britches, and tries to use his money to buy psychics and...?

Extras:

• Script to Screen "Apocalypse...Now?"
• Curious Maria
• The Making of Medium : Season 5
• Jake & Patricia Q & A

Medium continues to be awesome and ComicsOnline hopes that it stays on the air for another five seasons. Do your part and watch it Fridays at 8/7 on CBS!

ComicsOnline gives Medium: The Fifth Season 4 out of 5 psychics in the family.

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DVD Review: Phineas and Ferb vol. 2 The Daze of Summer

"There's a hundred and four days of summer vacation, and school comes along just to end it. So the annual problem for our generation is finding a good way to spend it. LIKE MAYBE..."

So begins every episode of Phineas and Ferb. Each episode contains 2 stories, so while this DVD only contains 5 episodes, you get 10 cartoons.

Phineas and Ferb stars Vincent Martella (Everybody Hates Chris) as Phineas and Thomas Sangster (Love Actually) as Ferb, and Ashley Tisdale (The Suite Life of Zack & Cody) as their sister Candace. The basic premise is, as evidenced by the lyrics from the theme song above, two boys who want to make the most of each day of summer vacation. They somehow have the ability to do anything they put their minds to, including making full sized circuses, amusement park attractions, and stadiums in their backyard.

Each episode is very formulaic, but only in the best sense of that term. After only a couple of episodes, you have the formula down, and all that remains is waiting for the show to fill in the same Mad Lib with hilarity.

Each episode contains:

-The awesome theme song as well as another song inside the episode.

-"What are we gonna do today?"

-"Where's Perry?"

-Perry the Platypus vs Dr. Doofenshmirtz

-Main adventure with the boys and possibly a side story with Candace.

-"Oh there you are, Perry."

Extras:

Games and Activities: All-New Googolplex Mall Science Fair Games:
-"WDCTMM?"
-The World's Biggest Baking Soda Volcano-nator!!!!!!
-Phineas and Ferb's Microscopic Zoo That Fits on the Head of a Pin

Like The Wizards of Waverly Place, this was my first exposure to Phineas and Ferb, and I have to say, I was thrilled. The comic timing in this show is just amazing. The dialog is witty and the formula just works. This is one of the best new cartoons I've watched in years.

ComicsOnline gives Phineas and Ferb vol. 2 The Daze of Summer 5 out of 5 perfect summer days.

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DVD Review: Primeval Volume 2

What happens when you take dinosaurs, time travel and evil creatures from the future and put them together? You get Volume 2 of Primeval, which is now available on DVD!

Dr. Nick Cutter continues to lead his elite team on a mission to stop various creatures from coming through the anomalies in time and space. New teammates Captain Becker and Sarah Page join the team after the death of Cutter's Assistant, Stephen Hart. Cutter makes a new breakthrough regarding the anomalies and believes that they are all connected and that they can be predicted. His ex-wife Helen, also makes a discovery of her own with a mysterious artifact from the future that has a strange connection to the anomalies.

Episode Highlights:
Episode 1- Cutter and his team investigate an anomaly that opens inside a London Museum. The anomaly unleashes a creature that looks extremely similar to the Egyptian God known as Ammut, but turns out to be a Pristichampus. With the help of Egyptologist Sarah Page, Cutter and his team must return the creature home before it kills. Back at the home office, Lester deals with a new player named Christine Johnson, who knows a bit too much about the A.R.C. Center and the work that the team is doing. Will she be friend or foe?

Episode 2- 14 years ago, an anomaly opened inside a residental home and unleashed a gremlin from the future upon three unsuspecting boys, only one of whom was able to escape. Cut to the present, where Nick predicts a new anomaly will open in the same location shortly, and the team is dispatched to investigate. The child that escaped all those years ago finally returns as Police Officer Danny Quinn, who is still searching for answers about his murdered brother. Meanwhile back at the A.R.C., Helen and the Cleaner (aka the Clone Guy) infiltrate the building in search for Nick Cutter's DNA.

Episode 3- Nick Cutter is acting very strange and attempts to take the Artifact, but it is revealed that he is actually a clone being controled by Helen! Now Helen and Nick have a final confrontation and only one of them will be walking away!

Episode 9- A mysterious woman from the future may hold the key to learning more about the anomalies, but the only problem is that she is being held by Christine Johnson. Danny attempts to rescue her, only to learn that she is actually Helen in disguise! Helen escapes and takes Johnson with her into the future, where Johnson is abandoned only to be killed by the future predators.

Episode 10- It all comes down to this: the final face off between Helen Cutter and the team from the A.R.C. Helen is determined to stop the original evolution of humanity and disrupt the timeline forever! Can Danny, Abbey and Connor stop her before it is too late?

Special Features:
-Cutter's Odyssey Featurette
-Genesis of a Creature Featurette
-Audio Commentary

Overall:
This series continued to impress and really became addictive to watch. I looked forward to watching new episodes each week and was very happy with the level of detail given to this season. It is unfortunate however to learn that ITV and BBC have cancelled the show, thus leaving the characters and their fate up a tree, quite literally. Remember how frustrating it was watching Rembrant Brown jump into the portal at the end of Season 5 of Sliders and not knowing his fate? Or the fate of the remaining Sliders? Yeah...it's that bad. So what will happen to our heroes? Well there has been a lot of talk of a US made Primeval Movie. With the show canceled, it is unknown if a big budget version will still happen, but we do know that it will not be a continuation of the current storyline. If you are looking for a good show to watch, this one is right up there as being of the best of 2009...even if it doesn't have a proper ending.

ComicsOnline gives Primeval Volume Two - 4.5 out of 5 shows that I will really miss watching and hope that there is some chance in hell that it gets a proper finale. (Hey, it worked for Farscape and SG-1, maybe it can work for Primeval). Thanks for the ride guys.

DVD Review: ReBoot: The Definitive Mainframe Edition

by Kroze Kresky, Media Editor

ReBoot, by Mainframe Entertainment, was one of the groundbreaking shows that hit televisions in the early 90s. It ushered in a new wave of animation, blowing audiences away with its crazy, newfangled, polygon-filled imagery. Hitting the airwaves an entire year before movie audiences were dazzled by Pixar's Toy Story, ReBoot quickly gained a following in Saturday morning cartoon watchers who have begged for years for the series, which had been previously locked up in various legal battles to be released in a full set. But now the entire series of the first fully computer-animated TV show finally comes to DVD for the first time ever.

The show follows the exploits of what would happen inside of your computer if it were alive, and each bit and byte had its own personality. The series centers around a Sprite named BOB who is a Guardian created to protect the system of Mainframe from evil viruses and other threats. To assist him, BOB has various friends, such as the brother and sister combo of Dot and Enzo Matrix, who own a Diner in Mainframe and have grown close to BOB. Other cohorts are the ever- annoying TV named Mike who everyone just wants to shut up, and a waiter named Cecil; who looks remarkably like an old Apple Macintosh and berates everyone who comes in his path.

Since the show takes place inside a computer, another character is the god-like being known only as "The User" who likes to play various games he puts. Our heroes end up having to play these games (which, most of the time, are very much tongue-in-cheek parodies of actual video games) in order to prevent the system from being destroyed.

Also living within the system are a pair of viruses. Megabyte (voiced by the late Tony Jay, who is also well-known for voicing Judge Frollo in Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame), a very intelligent and sinister virus who acts like a mob boss slowly executing his plans to drive all the bits and bytes of Mainframe to be corrupted so that he may rule over them all. Hexadecimal is a being who thrives off of pure chaos and randomness and may or may not have some weird connection to Megabyte, despite them always being at war with each other.

ReBoot gained lots of love from the geek population due to its use of very geeky terminology that it used to make tons of puns throughout the series, as well as its many many pop-culture parodies of TV shows and video games. But the series quickly broke away from its silly-and-comedic-stand-alone-episode-mold into something really special. The latter half of season two attracted a new audience due to its ongoing story and the semi-dark and serious tones it took on (having an entire episode be an X-Files parody also helped). From there the series took off into much darker tones for seasons 3 and 4 as the ongoing storyline developed even more.

Episode Highlights:

"The Medusa Bug": Hex has a plan to make all of Mainframe bow to her every will. Sending a package out that contains a bug which infects the entire system turning everyone and everything all to stone, can BOB stop the bug before it turns him to stone as well?

"Enzo the Smart": Enzo, who is finally sick of playing second fiddle to the rest of everyone, decides to try and become smarter than everyone else. He finds his way into the Central Processing Unit of Mainframe and tells it he wishes to become four times smarter than everyone else... sadly the plan backfires, Instead of making him smarter, it makes everyone else in Mainframe (Including BOB) four times dumber. Now with a game cube entering the system, can Enzo, being the only one smart enough to still win, beat the user by himself or will everyone end up nullified?

"Wizards, Warriors And A Word From Our Sponsor": When Mike the TV ends up hanging around (and slowly annoying) our heroes, a game cube hits and brings them all into a parody of Dungeons and Dragons. Can BOB, Enzo and Dot beat the user and deal with Mike's annoying ramblings both at the same time? Will Mike ever be useful? Will people ever stop saying that I am as annoying as Mike? Find out the answer to all these questions (except that last one) after these commercial messages from our sponsor!

"Painted Windows": Hexadecimal gains access to Mainframe's Paint command and uses it to paint all of Mainframe! Harmless fun? Not when her antics wreak havoc on Mainframe's communication systems. This episode starts off a new tone for the series, starting a story arc that lasts all the way up until the end of Season 3.

"Web World Wars": A portal to the web has been opened bringing in various creatures from the web who are attacking Mainframe in the epic Season 2 finale. All of the main characters are forced to work together with Megabyte and Hex once they learn that no help is coming from Guardian Command. But how long could this fragile alliance possibly last?

"Game Over": This is the real turning point for the series where Enzo and AndrAIa are forced into a no win situation where they play in a Mortal Kombat-like game against the user who has become very skilled. Is this really the end for our heroes?

"The Episode with No Name": We are finally introduced to the Guardians and their leader Turbo as we find out about a much bigger threat named Daemon, a trojan virus that has infected the net and was behind the attacks on Mainframe. Turbo tells Matrix that he needs to find BOB since he is the the only Guardian left that can be trusted. This episode sets into motion the storyline that winds through the rest of the series.

"Showdown": Finally it has all come down to this, BOB, Matrix and everyone has rallied to take down Megabyte and his corrupted army in an epic battle which the entire fate of Mainframe lies in the balance. This is what it has all been leading up to and not everyone is gonna make it out in one piece!

"Dameon Rising": The first of two feature length movies that made up the entirety of season 4. Every guardian has been infected and now serves the lethal trojan virus known as Dameon. Now with Mainframe as the only system left uncorrupted by Dameon's rule, its up to BOB, Enzo, Matrix, Dot, AndrAIa  and even Mike the TV to fight back against the entire net and delete Dameon for good!

"My Two Bobs": In the aftermath of the Dameon incident, it turns out a second BOB has appeared untarnished and clean with no memory of his time surfing the net. While the first BOB doesn't trust the duplicate Guardian, he slowly wins everyone else in Mainframe over leading everyone to wonder if the BOB they have been fighting along side since finding him on the net is even the real BOB.

Special Features:

-Audio Commentary on Episodes

-Fast Forward: The Making of ReBoot

-Looking Back At ReBoot With Co-Creator Gavin Blair

-Animated Character Models

Overall:

ReBoot is a classic and well-done series that any fan of CG animation owe it to themselves to have this piece of history in their DVD collection. Much of the series still holds up along with the jokes and the stories are still engaging as ever. Granted most of the CGI looks a bit dated, but that can't really be helped due to being one of the pioneers of CGI animated shows, and much of that time you may hardly even notice it due to being sucked in to the wacky adventures the crew of Mainframe get into episode after episode. Seasons 3 and 4 deserves extra recognition for bringing the series into a more mature themed and serialized episode setting from its original stand alone, lighthearted beginnings. As the series progresses you can see the vast improvements Mainframe Entertainment had made over the course of the years to both their writing and CGI animation. ReBoot was the first entirely CGI animated show and its still one of the best despite showing it's age a bit!

ComicsOnline gives ReBoot: The Definitive Mainframe Edition  - 4 glitches out of 5

 

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DVD Review: Reboot -Seasons 1 & 2

Reboot, by Mainframe Entertainment, was one of the groundbreaking shows that hit televisions in the early 90s. It ushered in a new wave of animation, blowing audiences away with its crazy, newfangled, polygon-filled imagery. Hitting the airwaves an entire year before movie audiences were dazzled by Pixar's Toy Story, Reboot quickly gained a following in Saturday morning cartoon watchers who have begged for years for the series, which had been previously locked up in various legal battles to be released in a full set. But now the first two seasons of the first fully computer-animated TV show finally comes to DVD for the first time ever.

The show follows the exploits of what would happen inside of your computer if it were alive, and each bit and byte had its own personality. The series centers around a Sprite named BOB who is a Guardian created to protect the system of Mainframe from evil viruses and other threats. To assist him, BOB has various friends, such as the brother and sister combo of Dot and Enzo Matrix, who own a Diner in Mainframe and have grown close to BOB. Other cohorts are the ever- annoying TV named Mike who everyone just wants to shut up, and a waiter named Cecil; who looks remarkably like an old Apple Macintosh and berates everyone who comes in his path.

Since the show takes place inside a computer, another character is the god-like being known only as "The User" who likes to play various games he puts. Our heroes end up having to play these games (which, most of the time, are very much tongue-in-cheek parodies of actual video games) in order to prevent the system from being destroyed.

Also living within the system are a pair of viruses. Megabyte (voiced by the late Tony Jay, who is also well-known for voicing Judge Frollo in Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame), a very intelligent and sinister virus who acts like a mob boss slowly executing his plans to drive all the bits and bytes of Mainframe to be corrupted so that he may rule over them all. Hexadecimal is a being who thrives off of pure chaos and randomness and may or may not have some weird connection to Megabyte, despite them always being at war with each other.

Reboot gained lots of love from the geek population due to its use of very geeky terminology that it used to make tons of puns throughout the series, as well as its many many pop-culture parodies of TV shows and video games. But the series quickly broke away from its silly-and-comedic-stand-alone-episode-mold into something really special. The latter half of season two attracted a new audience due to its ongoing story and the semi-dark and serious tones it took on (having an entire episode be a X-Files parody also helped).

Episode Highlights:

"The Medusa Bug": Hex has a plan to make all of Mainframe bow to her every will. Sending a package out that contains a bug which infects the entire system turning everyone and everything all to stone, can BOB stop the bug before it turns him to stone as well?

"Enzo the Smart": Enzo, who is finally sick of playing second fiddle to the rest of everyone, decides to try and become smarter than everyone else. He finds his way into the Central Processing Unit of Mainfame and tells it he wishes to become four times smarter than everyone else... sadly the plan backfires, Instead of making him smarter, it makes everyone else in Mainframe (Including BOB) four times dumber. Now with a game cube entering the system, can Enzo, being the only one smart enough to still win, beat the user by himself or will everyone end up nullified?

"Wizards, Warriors And A Word From Our Sponsor": When Mike the TV ends up hanging around (and slowly annoying) our heroes, a game cube hits and brings them all into a parody of Dungeons and Dragons. Can BOB, Enzo and Dot beat the user and deal with Mike's annoying ramblings both at the same time? Will Mike ever be useful? Will people ever stop saying that I am as annoying as Mike? Find out the answer to all these questions (except that last one) after these commercial messages from our sponsor!

"Painted Windows": Hexadecimal gains access to Mainfame's Paint command and uses it to paint all of Mainframe! Harmless fun? Not when her antics wreak havoc on Mainframe's communication systems. This episode starts off a new tone for the series, starting a story arc that lasts all the way up until the end of Season 3.

"Web World Wars": A portal to the web has been opened bringing in various creatures from the web who are attacking Mainframe in the epic Season 2 finale. All of the main characters are forced to work together with Megabyte and Hex once they learn that no help is coming from Guardian Command. But how long could this fragile alliance possibly last?

Special Features:

-Audio Commentary on Episodes

Overall:

Reboot is a classic and well-done series that any fan of CG animation owe it to themselves to have this piece of history in their DVD collection. Much of the series still holds up along with the jokes and the stories are still engaging as ever. Granted most of the CGI looks a bit dated, but that can't really be helped due to being one of the pioneers of CGI animated shows, and much of that time you may hardly even notice it due to being sucked in to the wacky adventures the crew of Mainframe get into episode after episode. The only downside to this set is that its lacking in special features and behind the scenes info, but maybe we will get that once Seasons 3 & 4 hit DVD in June!

ComicsOnline gives Reboot Seasons 1 & 2 - 4 glitches out of 5

Get your copy of Reboot Seasons 1 & 2 at Amazon.

Stay tuned to ComicsOnline for everything geek pop culture.

DVD Review: Red Dwarf: Back to Earth

Nine years later… Later than what, we don’t know... but Red Dwarf is back and it is as good as ever. I first watched the series in the early 90’s and I have loved it ever since. Red Dwarf is a rare case in which a synthesis of Sci-fi and sitcom actually worked, and actually survived for as long as it did. Many other shows that tried to do what Red Dwarf did came and went during the run of the show, including an American version of the show. They even tried to bring over Kryten. Seeing as this show had lasted for so long, and the fans are clamoring for new Dwarf this seemed like the perfect opportunity to put out a new set of episodes, since the Red Dwarf movie had fallen into development hell so long ago.

Red Dwarf: Back to Earth is a continuation of the series Red Dwarf, where the crew of the ship open a dimensional portal back to earth, and as the packaging says, “in best Blade Runner tradition attempt to track down their creator to plead for more life.” We follow the crew from the ship, through the dimensional portal, and all around London on their quest.

The set is a two-disc set. One with the episodes, the other disc all special features. The first disc has the episode as a feature length directors cut, and as the three-part episode as originally aired. The director’s cut has commentary by the director, and the episodes have a commentary by the cast, and one by the crew. The second disc is absolutely full of the special features that we viewers have come to expect with a Red Dwarf DVD release.

Special Features:
Exclusive Documentary
The Making of Back to Earth
Deleted Scenes
Smeg ups: Out takes
Featurettes
Trailers
Web videos
Photo Galleries
… and an easter egg

This movie is amazing looking and sounding due to the fact that it was filmed with a Red One HD camera. This allowed for post-production reframing of a shot with no loss of quality. The original broadcast looked great and the DVD looked amazing. This is actually the best possible picture and sound from the highest quality source in the industry.

I have watched Red Dwarf for quite a long time. I have seen every episode, and own every release. Red Dwarf: Back To Earth is everything that a Red Dwarf episode should be. It has everything that you expect on a Red Dwarf DVD. It has all the special features and commentaries that they pack into each release. The episode is as funny as a Dwarfer should expect, and any person new to the series will laugh right along. There are so many special features that every aspect of production is discussed in detail. Nothing is left out in the making of these releases. The production of the DVD even goes so far as to recreate the box used for the unreleased DVD in the episode itself. This is a DVD release specially tailored for the fans, yet can be thoroughly and fully enjoyed by non-fans as well. Red Dwarf: Back to Earth is a DVD that everyone will enjoy and should pick up.

ComicsOnline Gives Red Dwarf: Back to Earth 5 Carbugs out of 5.

DVD Review: Robin Hood: Season Three

DVD Review: Ruby-Spears Superman

Man... cartoons used to really suck.  Joe Ruby and Ken Spears were a pair of animators for Hanna-Barbera (they worked together on developing Scooby-Doo) who decided to spin off and found their own studio in the 70s.  Their business plan (a sound one, and oft repeated) was to identify anything that kids were interested in and rush an animated take on it to TV quickly and for as little money as possible.  This approach kept the company in steady business and gifted the world with such Saturday morning classics as Turbo Teen (hello, Knight Rider) and Rubik the Amazing Cube as well as the slightly more regarded Conan/Star Wars pastiche Thundarr the Barbarian among many, many others.  The shows generally only lasted a season or two, which was fine since by then the catalyzing fad had died out anyway and it was time to find a new way to capture the attention of the elementary-school set.

The approach was already growing dated by the late 80s when DC comics approached them to launch a new half-hour cartoon celebrating the 50th anniversary of the flagship character, the Man of Steel.  They complied with Ruby-Spears Superman, a brief series which aired in Fall/Winter 1988.  If you blinked you missed it, but now all thirteen episodes are available in a modest 2 DVD set from Warner Brothers.  Superman completists may want to pick it up, but there is little of interest here for a casual audience.  Very obviously aimed at about a third grade audience, each episode features an 18 minute story of the Metropolis Marvel using his incredible array of powers (especially his Super Breath- someone must have mandated that it be featured regularly for some reason) to save the city, the world, or just plucky reporter/love interest Lois Lane and bungling tagalong Jimmy Olsen.  All episodes then close with a four-minute short culled from "Superman's Family Album" of Lil' Clark passing through major milestones and getting up to Kryptonian shenanigans.  This is all pretty standard fare, and anyone who knows the character could have written any of these episodes with no problem, and probably done it better. 

The villains are an unimpressive, anonymous bunch, with nobody showing up from the main continuity aside from Lex Luthor and a late appearance by bit Hawkman villain the Shadow Thief.  Oh, and The Prankster.  Look out, everybody.  Superman himself is so annoyingly ineffectual as to be challenged by the villain of the week, in the retro comic book mode of being helpless if the giant monster manages to pin his arms to his sides, and only being faster than a speeding bullet when master criminals are not slowly reaching for control consoles.  And Great Caesar's Ghost, but the dialogue is often terrible, though gamely spouted by veteran voice talent, most notably Michael Bell's bombastic Luthor.  The art is, in a word, brutal, with parsimoniously animated foreground characters moving in front of shallow, static backgrounds that supposedly contain moving parts and other people. 

Actually, all of this is not so unusual for the time and a good dose of this might be just the cure for misplaced nostalgia amongst those of a certain age.  So you miss The Super Friends, do you?  Really?  Younger viewers who came of age watching the current DC Animated Universe and contemporary shows can also watch and be shocked by how far the rank and file of the animated form has advanced in twenty years.  These cartoons are roughly contemporaneous with The Little Mermaid, which was a revelation, but at the time it took the backing of a major studio like Disney to get major computer help with the artwork instead of farming it out to an angry dude in North Korea.  Now, processors are cheap and for probably the same budget in adhusted dollars we get to see an entirely different product.  Your elders may have lied about walking back and forth to school in the snow, uphill both ways, but some of their fantastic tales of childhood privation were true.

The series is noteworthy as a snapshot in the evolution of Superman.  Many of the elements of the recently-completed movie series are there including re-orchestrated segments of John Williams' great score, and Lex forever explaining himself to a dim moll (her name here inexplicably changed to Miss Morganberry).  In the comics Supes had recently undergone a major overhaul, getting powered down significantly, which might explain his difficulty with the bit players here, and Lex had moved from battlesuited, robot-piloting Mad Scientist to Evil Billionaire with a Kryptonite pinky ring.  (He has since moved on to politician and even President of the United States as the public mood on what scares us/pisses us off moves ever onward.)  DC Comics' Marv Wolfman was onboard as editor/consultant, so certain details like that serve as a time capsule of the Golden Anniversary edition of the character and his world.

Highlights

Highlights include a halloween themed episode including a battle with the Blob, and an uncredited encounter with the alien kid from the then-recent film adaptation of Enemy Mine.

Extras
The only extras are a few trailers for things like the Green Lantern animated movie and a worthwhile featurette called The Rise of LexCorp commenting on Lex's recent transfomation to corporate mogul.

Of possible nostalgia value to people born within a couple of years of 1980, the Ruby-Spears Superman is an obscure bit of cartoon history best left forgotten. 

ComicsOnline gives the Ruby-Spears Superman animated series 1 out of 5 sea monsters handily vulnerable to freezing cold breath.

Unrated, but parents, have no fear.   309 min.

DVD Review: Scrubs Season Eight

When NBC announced that they would not be renewing Scrubs for another season, most of us thought that would be it for the show. To our surprise, ABC was kind enough to pick up the comedy and allow it to continue its quirky storytelling...but with a few budget cut backs. While we did lose a few of the secondary characters, the show was joined by a new set of interns that fit in very well with the original cast.... The show came back and was the best that it had been in years. Now you can catch up on the most recent antics since the Complete Eighth season of Scrubs is now available on DVD!

Episode Highlights:
My Jerks- Introduces the new status quo of Sacred Heart, new interns and the new Chief of Medicine, Taylor Maddox, as played by Courtney Cox. Things start to get a little crazy when the interns don't handle their tasks and JD has an interesting run in with Maddox. And in a stunning turn of events, Maddox does the unthinkable and fires the Janitor!

My ABC's- This episode features many Sesame Street characters making apperances. Oscar the Grouch appears as the new Chief of Medicine, "Doctor" Grover appears and gets a high five from The Todd, and Elmo gets a little excited. JD, Elliot, and Dr. Cox all choose an intern to work with them directly on a project, but it soon becomes clear that some of them need a lot more work than others. Make sure you keep an ear out for an awesome accoustic version of the Sesame Street Theme at the end of the show.

My Lawyer's in Love- Ted finally catches a break and falls for a ukelele player named Gooch, who performs at the hospital for the sick patients. Gooch has an awesome set list and sets up some of the best moments of the episode. Do not miss this one. This is one of those episodes you can watch over and over and it keeps you entertained the entire time.

My Soul on Fire (Parts 1 and 2)- The Janitor is getting married in the Bahamas and the crew of Sacred Heart decide to take a impromptu trip to attend! The chance to learn the Janitor's real name is worth the trip, but things start to go wrong when relationships start falling apart. Can they get it together in time to enjoy this vacation?

My Finale- JD decides to leave Sacred Heart to be closer to his son, Sammy. While he isn't moving very far away, he still knows that this will be a huge change in his life. This episode was handled beautifuly and was the perfect way to wrap up a lot of these storylines. We learn more about the moment that JD and the Janitor first met, we get some glimpses of the future, and we even get to see Dr. Cox approve of JD. All in all, this was a great episode and it goes to show that Bill Lawerence really created some fantastic characters. The final moments of the show features cameos from a large number of former guests on the show and secondary characters.

Special Features:
-Bloopers
-Deleted Scenes
-Alternate Lines
-My Bahamas Vacation
-Scrubs Intern Webisodes

Overall:
This season was a perfect ending for the current storyline of Scrubs. It was recently announced that the show would be continuing in a new form, focusing on Dr. Cox and Turk in a Med School environment. Several of the new interns are making their way to the next season as well. This show has constantly held my attention since it began and I would highly recommend it to anyone who hasn't seen it. This is not your typical comedy. We will miss JD, Elliot, the Janitor, Ted, Kelso and the rest as they move on to new jobs...but we hope they show up in the new series regularly.

ComicsOnline gives Scrubs Season Eight - 4.5 out of 5 reasons that I'm no Superman.

DVD Review: Son of the Beach: Volume Two

Baywatch was popular, but not funny. Son of the Beach was funny, but not popular. Ok, it wasn’t really funny, but it was produced by Howard Stern when he had his massive legion of fans. Son of the beach aired from 2000 to 2002 on FX, and garnered an audience large enough to keep it on the air on a cable network. Son of the Beach: Volume Two is out now on DVD.

Son of the Beach is a Baywatch parody that deals with the day to day life of Notch Johnson, the head lifeguard of the beaches of Malibu Adjacent, and his staff.

Episode Highlights:

”Grand Prix”: Head Lifeguard Notch Johnson must uphold the honor of all of America by defeating

”Witness for the Prostitution”: Notch Johnson is being honored by having a building named after him at the local University, but he senses that something is of at the university’s sorority house.

”Empty the Dragon”: Notch, Kimberlee, Chip, and Porcelain go to Japan for the Nagasaki Fried Chicken Karaoke Championship.

Overall:

Each disc has its own special features in this collection. Disc one has a behind the scenes for the episodes of “Grand Prix” and “The Island of Dr. Merlot”. Disc two has highlights from the “pilot” table read, and the original promos for the show. Disc three has the audition tapes for the cast. On all three of the discs are commentaries on select episodes, and a sexy montage.

This series is a product of its producer Howard Stern. It tries to hard with the offensive jokes, so it turns out not to be funny. I do admit that a joke gets through and is funny once in a while, but the major amount is just too much too often. I had hoped that the show might be funny but the results were less than stellar, and I just don’t see the appeal of this show past the people who liked it the first time around or people who love everything that Howard Stern does.

ComicsOnline gives Son of the Beach: Volume Two 2 lifeguards out of 5

DVD Review: South Park The Complete Thirteenth Season

 

The boys are back yet again for another round in one of the longest running animated series on Comedy Central.
 

Overview

SouthPark was an incredibly unique show when it originally aired back in 1997.  Its mix of construction paper animation and excess vulgarity quickly developed a cult following that still continues to this day.  It’s a show you either love or hate.  You either love the way it relentlessly bashes on everything religion, pop culture or politics, or you hate it for the same reason.  Thankfully, I love it and this season’s efforts are some of the best. 

The Season

The recent year in news has given Trey Parker and Matt Stone plenty of topics to work with and they use them with wild abandon.  Nothing is safe - and I mean nothing; parodies and jokes based on The Jonas Brothers, Batman, the economy, Billy Mays, Somali pirates, Ghost Hunters, Michael Jackson, prostitution, wrestling, The Deadliest Catch, child beauty pageants, Glenn Beck, the Japanese and peeing in the pool. Whew.  Expect to see all of this and more!

Because I hate Kanye West so much, I absolutely loved the “Fishsticks” episode.  Throughout it, we learn that Kanye’s ego is so ridiculous he can’t get a joke the rest of the world loves.  It provides a fitting payback for his MTV awards disaster and I applaud the writers for coming up with the idea.  “Margaritaville” is another gem that mixes our current economic crisis with religion in such a way that’s not only funny, but incredibly smart.  I also found “Fatbeard” worthy of note.  It’s mostly due to my love for fairy-tale pirates, but Cartman’s ability to take anything his does too far certainly helped.

Video/Audio

South Park The Complete Thirteenth Season is presented in a widescreen animated format with English Dolby Digital stereo sound.  It looks great in standard def and holds up better than most DVD transfers when watched on an up-convert.  Season thirteen also features some pretty funny songs including “Gay Fish”, “Too Many Minorities at My Water Park” and a number a la We are the World called “Queef Free.”  It’s obvious the high level of production value used in them and they sound great.

Special Features

South Park The Complete Thirteenth Season on DVD comes as a three disc collection with all fourteen uncensored episodes and the following:

• Seven Deleted Scenes
• Inside Xbox: A Behind the Scenes Tour of South Park Studios featurette

The deleted scenes run about seven minutes and feature an alternate ending to “The Coon” as well as “Fishticks” that are just awesome.  In addition to that, there is an incredibly funny pair of scenes from “Pinewood Derby” that will bring a smile to your face.  The Inside Xbox tour runs about four minutes and was taken straight from the streaming Xbox live presentation that aired a few months ago.  It has Major Nelson taking a quick run through the studio showing off the animators, sound coordinators and production designers.

Overall

There were so many great episodes this season that choosing the best episode would be like choosing which child of yours you like best - it’s that difficult.  There’s nothing in the recent headlines that was left unturned and it’s what keeps this show incredibly fresh and still hilarious after 13 seasons.  Don’t miss this one.

ComicsOnline gives South Park The Complete Thirteenth Season on DVD 4.5 out of 5 dead dolphins.

Buy South Park The Complete Thirteenth Season at Amazon.com now.

 

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DVD Review: Spectacular Spider-Man The Complete First Season

DVD Review: Spectacular Spider-Man Volume 8

This is it True Believers! Our favorite Web-Slinger is back for his final three adventures in Spectacular Spider-Man - Volume 8. Everything has been building to this as our hero has his final encounter with the villainous Green Goblin! Questions will be answered, relationships will change, and the life of Peter Parker will never be the same.

Episodes:

"Subtext": Enter the Molten Man! Mark Allan has been having severe gambling problems and has fallen back onto his bad habits. When he gets himself in too deep, he is offered a chance to clear his debts once and for all, but must be the subject of an experimental procedure. Mark is injected with a set of nanites which grant him body armor and new heat based powers. When it seems that things are finally going his way, Mark loses control of the armor and goes on a rampage as the Molten Man, drawing the attention of a certain web-covered hero. Now Spidey must stop the Molten Man and find a way to return him to his normal state. Throughout this episode we also see how Mark's actions have affected his sister, Liz Allan, who also happens to be Peter's girlfriend. We also get some nice moments from Mary Jane Watson, who comes to Liz's aid when Mark goes missing.

"Opening Night": The Vault, a high-tech prison designed to keep Spidey's rogue gallery from escaping, is about to officially go online. In order to get an accurate assessment of its abilities, Spidey has volunteered to test this escape proof system. Things, of course, aren't as easy as anyone would think, as both the Black Cat and the Green Goblin become involved! The Black Cat uses Spider-Man's escape attempt as a distraction to break her father free from jail, but ends up coming to his aid when the Goblin releases the other prisoners from their cells. We also learn of a surprising connection between the Black Cat's father and the origin of Spider-Man! This episode is a great setup for the final confrontation with the Goblin, and again raises the question of the identity of the Goblin.

"Final Curtain": The final episode of the Spectacular Spider-Man is here, bringing fans the much awaited confrontation between Spidey and the Goblin. While the Goblin sets his master plan into effect, Gwen and Peter realize how much they want to be together and take actions that will bring them a step closer to a real relationship. I really don't want to give away the details of this amazing episode, but I can say that it is definitely one of the best of the series. It features great moments between Peter and his entire cast of characters, and focuses on a lot of the Spider-Man history. If I spoil it, it would be like spoiling the last episode of LOST, which as we all know, is something you just don't do. "The Final Curtain" is truly a testament to the hard work done by Greg Weisman and Victor Cook. You can clearly see all of the plot lines set in motion through the season come to a stunning conclusion that will leave all fans wanting more.

Special Features:
There are no special features on this release.



Overall:
This release marks the end of an era as it brings the tale of the Spectacular Spider-Man to a close. Following the production of Season 2, Sony Entertainment has returned the television rights of the Spider-Man franchise to Marvel. Fans had hoped that Marvel would do the right thing and continue on with the series, but recently it was announced they would be doing a new Ultimate Spider-Man animated series in 2011, thus ending all hope for more Spectacular adventures.

ComicsOnline has had the privilege and honor of working closely with the team on Spectacular since they first debuted their series at WonderCon 2008. From the very beginning, it was quite obvious that this would be a different kind of Spider-Man than fans had seen animated in the past. In the first episode alone, we are introduced to over 20 characters from the Spidey Universe that would play significant roles in his life. Each and every character in this series was introduced with passion and grace. The viewers had the opportunity to get to know all of the supporting cast in amazing detail, all because of the level of depth and care shared by everyone involved in the production of this show.

Spidey and his cast of characters proved to be in great hands as Greg and Vic took us on a wild ride over the course of two seasons. The serialized storytelling allowed more of the mythos of Spider-Man to be fleshed out and set up different points along the intricate web of Peter's life. Instead of focusing mainly on the heroics of Spider-Man, the story revolved around the life of Peter Parker, who was just trying to find his place in the world.

The Spectacular Spider-Man series has surpassed all expectations and has left its mark on the world of animation. I consider this disc not just a conclusion, but the equivalent to the final brush strokes of a masterpiece. The bar has been set extremely high and we can only hope that whatever comes next will do justice to Spider-Man in the way that this series did.

ComicsOnline gives Spectacular Spider-Man Volume 8 - 5 out of 5 ways to leave fans wanting more!

Special thanks again to everyone from the Spectacular Spider-Man team who have taken the time to work with us during their two Spectacular seasons!

We also have several copies of Spectacular Spider-Man - Volume 8 to give away! To qualify for a free copy please email "Spectacular Spider-Man" to editors@comicsonline.com. As always, this giveaway is subject to our Giveaway Rules! This giveaway ends 18 May 2010. Randomly selected winners will be notified within 30 days.

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DVD Review: Spectacular Spider-Man Volumes 6 and 7

The Spectacular Spider-Man returns to our lives in the brand new releases of Volumes 6 and 7!  Things are finally looking up for Peter Parker as Liz Allen becomes his official girlfriend and his social status at Midtown High reaches an all-time high.  But whenever things start going well for our favorite wall-crawler, disaster seems to rear its ugly head.  One of the best things about this series is the serialized nature and it is great seeing how every episode lays groundwork for what is to come.  With old enemies returning and a gang war looming on the horizon, things are about to get interesting, for these two releases showcase Spidey at his finest as he must outsmart Venom, Sandman, Hammerhead, Silvermane, Dr. Octopus and more!


Volume 6-

"First Steps"- School is back in session and things are starting to get better for Peter as he gets to enjoy life with his new girlfriend and the return of old friends.  Pete, Liz, Gwen and Harry get invited to Flash Thompson's birthday and we learn a lot about Pete and Flash's history together.  Secrets will be revealed!  Meanwhile, the Sandman returns and is out to make a big score, but keeps getting stopped by our favorite hero at every turn.  Can Pete convince this villain to give up his old ways and join the side of good?  Also, it seems that Eddie Brock (aka Venom) is lurking in the shadows...but what is he after and has he found the symbiote?  One of the best things about this episode is the inclusion of video recorded Birthday wishes to Flash Thompson showcasing the cast of the series and really adding a nice dynamic to the episode.  This episode was directed by Kevin Altieri who worked on Batman: The Animated Series.

"Growing Pains"- Col. John Jameson returns to the series!  After encountering the alien symbiote in season one, John has become infected by alien spores which increase his size and mass.  Jonah convinces him to take on the role of Col. Jupiter to take down Spider-Man once and for all!  Things get even more complicated as Venom returns posing as Spidey and causing damage to the city.  Will John realize that he is after the wrong web-slinger?  And what is Eddie's master plan for getting back at Peter?  Continuing the trend of adding new dynamics to the episode, this installment features the students at Midtown High auditioning for roles in A Mid Summer Night's Dream and is a treat for fans, as we get to see some of our favorite characters at their best and their worst.  While this episode really is more of a stand alone, it ends with a great cliffhanger and really leaves the audience wanting more.

"Identity Crisis"- After the stunning reveal at the end of the prior episode, everyone is left wondering who Spider-Man truly is under the mask.  A new investigation is launched and throughout the episode we get to see several cast members interviewed about their opinions on the subject at hand.  Eddie takes center stage in this episode and really takes his revenge on Peter by causing problems in every aspect of his life.  Can Spidey save his friends and stop Eddie before too much damage has been done?

Volume 7-


"Accomplices"- The Gang War story arc begins here!  Several parties are interested in the plans to create an army of Super-Human soldiers and only Spidey and the Rhino stand in their way.  Can these two survive this unlikely alliance and stop Silver Sable and Hammerhead from escaping with this deadly information?  This episode also includes a great appearance by the Black Cat doing what she does best!

"Probable Cause"- Peter faces the most challenging team up of his life: a partnership with Sally Avril for a police ride along!  Can he survive the night with her and Captain Stacey?  As if things weren't crazy enough, The Enforcers return in a new and improved way.  The Tinkerer gives Ox and Ricochet similar upgrades as The Shocker so that they can defeat Spider-Man.  One of the best moments of the season takes place in this episode with a certain character in an elevator.  Make sure to pay close attention for a familiar theme.

"Gangland"- Get ready for a battle at the Opera as the many forces involved in the Gang War come together for an ultimate showdown.  Tombstone, Silvermane, Doctor Octopus, Hammerhead, Silver Sable and The Vulture duke it out in a Valentine's day massacre.  Who orchestrated this epic battle and who will survive the night?  Peter must also choose between a romantic dinner with Liz or stopping all of his villains from destroying each other.  This episode features one of the best action sequences in the series.

Special Features-

Like their predecessors, Volume 6 and 7 are lacking all special features.  Usually these features are held over until the season box set release.

Overall-

Volumes 6 and 7 of the Spectacular Spider-Man are great additions to anyone's superhero library.  Under the guidance of Victor Cook and Greg Weisman, this show has developed into something that is truly special.  The serialized nature of the show takes all of the great parts of reading a Spider-Man comic and brings it to life.  While each episode could be watched as a stand alone adventure, the payoff comes when watching them in sequence as character and story arcs build to a exhilerating conclusion.  Fans are still calling out for a third season of this spectacular series and we need Marvel to hear our calls.  Please go support this fantastic series by telling your friends about these new releases.  Volume 8, the final chapter of Season Two, will be releasing this April.  Make sure you catch up by watching all 7 volumes before the next release from Sony.

ComicsOnline gives The Spectacular Spider-Man Volumes 6 and 7 5 shows with an incredibly catchy theme song out of 5.

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DVD Review: Spin City Season One

It was 1996, and Michael J. Fox had left television for movies. His career was waning, and it seemed like he was going to be relegated to lesser, direct-to-video releases. In comes Gary Goldberg and DreamWorks with a new television series. This series was Spin City, and it aired on ABC Tuesday nights. Spin City: The Complete First Season was recently released on DVD and collects the entire first season, including the pilot onto DVD.

Spin City was about the deputy mayor of New York City, and his day to day life where he practically ran the city under a pretty much incompetent mayor, and wacky staff.

Episode Highlights:

"Prototype": Pilot - City Hall has to deal with a garbage strike going on, and an insensitive comment that the mayor makes toward gay people.

"Dog Day Afternoon": Paul and Carter end up losing the body of a beloved police dog after the mayor upsets the city's Chief of Police. Also, Mike buys an air hockey table in the hopes that the staff will use it to relax…

"Bye Bye Love": Mike's girlfriend of the whole series so far leaves and moves to California, and Paul makes a new year's resolution to be less gullible. This is the best running gag bit in an episode this season.

"Striptease": Mike is dating a law student who is stripping to pay her way through college, and Nikki is using a bit of advice that was given to her by the guy that she is dating, of how to control a person, on Stuart. This is the second funniest episode long running gag in the season.

Overall

The DVD has a few special features throughout. Disc one has an excerpt of an interview of Michael J. Fox and Gary David Goldberg, the show's star and producer, at the Museum of Radio and Television in 1996. Disc four has a feature about the making and popularity of Spin City. Spread throughout the set was commentary by differing pairs of the stars on select episodes. The series is better on DVD than it was on television. The chance to watch the whole first season straight through gives the humor of each episode a chance to piggy back on the last one, making the series funnier as it goes along. I watched it off and on during the original run of the series, and I did enjoy it, but I was not a fan of the series. I thoroughly enjoyed the series as I watched it on DVD, and now will jump at the chance to keep watching each subsequent season. Buy this if you like Michael J. Fox, or just good funny Television.

ComicsOnline gives Spin City: The Complete First Season 4 inept press secretaries out of 5.

DVD Review: Stargate Atlantis Season 5

DVD Review: Stargate Universe: The Complete Final Season (Season Two)

by Kroze Kresky, Media Editor

Every mission has a destiny... and apparently this mission's destiny was to end long before its time was up. Stargate Universe: The Complete Final Season (aka Season Two) was both a blessing and a curse for sci-fi fans, as the season really ramped up the epic journey of Col. Young, Lt. Scott, Eli, Chloe and Dr. Rush, seeing them delve into deeper and darker territory than any Stargate series ever had. This darker setting made it one of the most captivating and interesting series that the franchise ever produced, breathing new life into previously generic sci-fi situations. Sadly, at the end of the season, SyFy decided not to renew the tragic series; despite the fact that this season set up some huge events that would have no doubt continued on into even more interesting stories. Every character gets their chance to shine this season, including those who are newly added to the crew, thanks to last season's cliffhanger ending where the Lucian Alliance (along with Col. Telford) now find themselves on the Ancient ship known as "Destiny" along with the Icarus Base crew.

Right from the start, the show wastes no time in getting things moving at a brisk pace (which continues throughout the entire season), which solves complaints by fans and critics alike about the previously slow pace towards payoffs and reveals. When Dr. Rush ends up finding Destiny's bridge and the crew learns how to fly the ship, the show is able to branch out into several new and quite grand directions, thus finally being able to take control of their own Destiny (Ba-dump-psssh!).

Also, we are introduced to a new threat that can't be negotiated or reasoned with, in the form of a series of alien drone ships that are out to destroy any technology they come across. The Destiny now has to deal with the fact that they are constantly being hunted by these things that appear to adapt and can't be stopped.

Eli gets a lot more focus this season when he gets a new love interest in the form of Ginn (Played by the uber-hawt Julie McNiven from Mad Men), one of the Lucian Alliance members who is now working with the crew. If you are a geek that never seems to get the girl, this storyline will really tug at your heartstrings (trust me, I know...). Chloe has an expanded role this season, as well, due to being experimented upon by the aliens who were after the Destiny last season. Chloe now becomes a whole lot more useful, seeming to have an entire library of alien knowledge inside of her head, as well as information on how to activate several of the new toys on the Destiny.

Featured episodes:

"Deliverance": When we last saw our heroes, they were fighting for their lives and fending off an attack from a swarm of alien drone ships. All hope seemed to be lost as Destiny was taking a severe beating. So, how do our favorite characters make it out of this one? Stargate has a history of setting us up with a massive cliffhanger moment for the mid-season finale, and like those previous stories, "Deliverance" fails to disappoint. When Destiny's destruction seemed to be imminent, Chloe steps in and saves the day, sending out a beacon to the aliens that had captured her in Season One. The aliens become a distraction for the drones, who refocus their attack on the new target. This gives the crew of the Destiny a chance to figure out a way to escape their pursuers. In order to stop the drones, they realize that they must work with the other aliens, and that means giving them what they want: Chloe! She agrees to go to the alien ship with the hopes that they will reverse the process that is slowly consuming her. Can they trust these aliens and escape the drones?

"Deliverance" lives up to its name and gives us resolution to some of the lingering plot threads from the first half of the season. We finally get development with Chloe's Season Two storyline, and it is a very positive development for the character. Rush also plays a very different role in this episode, showing a new side to the character that previously hadn't been seen. Will his new persona stick around for the future, or will he revert back to "classic" Rush? Only time will tell.

"Twin Destinies" Eli has found a new way to get the Destiny team home to Earth! Rush disagrees with Eli's plan and decides to stay on board the Destiny. He determines that in order to maintain the ship, he would need a total of 12 staff to operate and continue their ancient mission. Right before initiating Eli's plan, a Destiny Shuttle appears on long-range sensors, piloted by Dr. Rush. But how can that be Rush when he is standing on the bridge with the Senior Officers? We learn that this is a Dr. Rush from several hours in the future, and that they had gone through with Eli's plan, and that Destiny's crew perished. Can they find a way to make it home without sacrificing the entire crew?

"Twin Destinies" has a fantastic new take on time travel and allowed for a very different episode of the series. Rush is faced with a future version of himself, is proven to be correct, and must overcome his arrogance to save his friends. We also get some interesting developments between Rush and Col. Young, as Young offers to stay behind with Rush to support the continuation of Destiny's mission. Lou Diamond Phillips also gets a lot of screen time in this episode and has some surprising developments in both the current and future timelines (not going to give this one away).

"Alliances": Lt. Greer and Camile return to Earth via the Ancient Communication Stones to report on the situation aboard the Destiny, finding themselves in the middle of an attack on Homeworld Command by the Lucian Alliance! Can they help diffuse a bomb before it takes out the entire area? Meanwhile, on the Destiny, Senator Michaels (Kathleen Quinland) and Dr. Andrew Covel (French Stewart) meet with the team on the ship to determine if funding the Destiny mission is logical based on the number of failures and issues that have come up since the destruction of the Icarus Base.

This episode gives fans the long-awaited confrontation between Greer and Camile, allowing their hatred of one another to come to a head. These two are stuck in an extremely dangerous situation and are forced to rely on each other for survival. French Stewart appears as the former colleague of Dr Rush, who was actually offered the position on the Icarus Base prior to Rush and turned it down. He is extremely skeptical about Rush's discovery of the Destiny's mission, and is trying to debunk Rush's work. Honestly, if I didn't know that Stewart was going to be in this episode, I wouldn't have recognized him in the first half of the story. Not only has the man aged significantly since his last appearance in the Stargate story (originally appearing in the first Stargate movie along with Kurt Russell), but he is playing the most serious character that I have ever seen him portray. He does a great job stepping into a more scientific role in SGU and his appearance will definitely be enjoyable for fans.

"Common Descent" and "Epilogue": In one of the craziest moves Stargate has ever done, this two-parter episode gives us a look into the crew of the Destiny after they have lived out their entire lives. It turns out that the alternate crew of Destiny from "Twin Destinies" had survived, but had been transported thanks to a solar flare 2000 years into the past onto a random nearby planet. Two millennia later, when the crew of Destiny is off gathering supplies, they run into their own descendants, who immediately recognize them. Thus starts a journey of discovery for the crew of how their lives could have gone and how they survived without any of the technology and shelter that the Destiny provided.

We are also given a look into a civil war that stems from one of the constant sources of struggle in the series: The ideals of Dr. Rush versus the ideals of Col. Young. This war apparently leads the new civilization into its own destruction, as the crew is able to view the aftermath of it all. If the series would have ended with "Epilogue", it would have been more than a satisfying conclusion for viewers, as we were given closure for just about every character in one way or another with what could have happened.

Special Features:

While it is unfortunate that we won't be getting a Blu-ray release of SGU Season Two, the DVD release is definitely packed with some great commentaries and special features that will make fans very happy.

·     All 20 episodes featuring optional audio commentary from Stars and Guest Stars

·      Robert Carlyle Directs

·      Andy Mikita Directs

·      Eli’s Mom Comes on Board

·      Brian J. Smith’s First Fight

·      Crashing a Shuttle

·      The Seed Ship with Joe Mallozzi: Get to know more about the secrets of the Seed Ship in this featurette!

·      Saying Goodbye to Sgt. Riley - Oh Sgt. Riley. He sure couldn't catch a break. Not only was he thrown across the universe, he definitely got the short end of the stick whenever trouble was around. Fans will definitely enjoy this nice featurette in his honor.

·      Lou Diamond Phillips on Guest Stars

·      Lt. Scott Gets Hit By A Car

·      Inside Cloverdale with Brad Wright

·      How to Get Sucked Into Space

·      SG-U Welcomes You to New Mexico’s Bisti Badlands

·      Deconstructing Destiny

·      A Day in the Life of Jamil Walker Smith

·      Transplant Day

·      Sitting Down with Mike Dopud

·      Bringing the Bridge to Life

·      Louis Ferreira vs. Colonel Young

·      Pitches: A Journey of Friendship and Discovery

·      Behind the Season 2 Finale – Gauntlet - Fans will want to check out this finale behind the scenes look at the Series Finale of SGU.

Overall:

To undo the faults of the previous season, this season of Stargate Universe seemingly has it all, but it also succeeds in winning back its audience of longtime Stargate fans. This season feels a lot more like an actual Stargate series then the last one did, and because of that, it feels as if it has more of an identity to it. The story is significantly more solid, overall. David Blue really knocked it out of the park this season for his portrayal of Eli, especially in the final moments of the season, where Eli finally has accepted his place in the universe. It is a great parting moment for us. SyFy pulled the plug on this series way too early, and if everything in Season Two was any proof, the writers were planning to take us on quite the crazy and memorable journey with what they had up their sleeves. Stargate Universe: The Final Season is a must-have for any true Sci-Fi fan, and especially every Stargate fan. Action, adventure, drama, intrigue; this series had it all! Lets hope that next time, networks will think twice before canceling a show of this magnitude.

Comicsonline gives Stargate Universe: The Complete Final Season DVD - 5 hot redheads alien girls that I would totally date if I were lost in space out of 5

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DVD Review: Stargate-Children of the Gods Final Cut

For ten seasons, SG-1 traveled through the Stargate to protect Earth from alien forces. Now their first adventure has been re-released on DVD, but this isn't the adventure as you original viewed it! This new DVD Release of Stargate: Children of the Gods contains a new Final Cut! This re-cut version of the pilot episode contains new scenes, new voice work, new CGI, and more!

Brief Summary
Set one year after the events of Stargate The Movie, the Stargate suddenly becomes active for the first time. An alien strike force lead by a being that looks like the deceased alien RA comes through the gate to Earth and kidnaps a female military officer. Now General Hammond and Retired Col Jack O'Neill (now played by Richard Dean Anderson) must work together to learn more about the aliens and try and recover their missing officer. Now aided by his old teammates Ferretti and Kawalsky and new team member Samantha Carter, Jack reluctantly contacts Daniel Jackson (now played by Michael Shanks), who was left on Abydos a year before. Jack also reconnects with the young boy Skaara who he befriended on the last mission. But things start to go badly when more aliens (now known to be Jaffa) come through the gate and take Skaara and Daniel's Wife Sha're. Daniel returns to Stargate Command on Earth with Jack to regroup. General Hammond authorizes the team to go through the Stargate to learn as much about this new threat but they must return within 24 hours. They travel to another planet called Chulak where they learn that the people being taken are being offered as hosts to the "Gods" who turn out to be a race of symbiotic creatures that rely on human hosts to surive. They also learn that the being they face is called Apophis, the Egyptian god of night. Unfortunately, both Skarra and Sha're have been selected by the Goa'uld as hosts. With the help of the Jaffa known as Teal'c, O'neill and his team are eventually able to escape back through the Stargate to Earth. Now their mission is clear, they must save their friends and stop this new threat before it is too late!


So what is different about this version? Brad Wright went back and cut seven minutes from the original pilot and added some new content back in. So does cutting seven minutes of footage make a big difference? Yes, a huge difference actually. The content that was cut allows the film to flow a lot more smoothly. Wright removed a few scenes from the  awkward introduction of Samantha Carter (Amanda Tapping), and added in new scenes to make her introduction to the series a lot stronger. Additionally there were some shots that were reused from the original movie that Wright decided to remove and update with newly created sequences (i.e. the pyramid shot on Abydos). Some scenes were only added because Showtime wanted them in place (i.e. anything with nudity) so those are gone now. The last major difference was the additional voice work by Chris Judge to plays Teal'c. During the original filming, the weather conditions were quite cold and Judge was having a hard time portraying the character the way that he wanted. So they went back and re-dubbed his voice and now he looks and sounds more like the Teal'c we have grown to know and love. Finally, you will notice that Kawalsky is perfectly fine by the end of the episode and that the events that would lead him to his eventual death are not included...so maybe he wasn't meant to die afterall?

Special Features
-New Edits with Never-Viewed Scenes
-New Enhanced Visual Effects
-Revoiced Performance by Christopher Judge
-Original Score by Joel Goldsmith
-Commentary by Brad Wright and Richard Dean Anderson
-Back to the Beginning Featurette

Overall
This is a great new cut of the episode that started out Stargate as a Television Franchise. Everything has been remastered and looks and sounds incredible. This is a perfect addition to anyone's DVD collection. This is the way it was originally intended to be seen...so why not check it out for yourself?

ComicsOnline gives Stargate: Children of the Gods Final Cut 5 out of 5 CGI Pyramids.

DVD Review: Superman The Complete Animated Series

The Man of Steel has made his way to DVD in a new Complete Animated Series collection! Now all of adventures from Batman: The Animated Series creator Bruce Timm are available for you to own in a sleek 7 disc set! Now you can relieve Superman's battles with Lex Luthor, Parasite, Metallo, Livewire, Toyman, Lobo, Brainiac, and Darkseid!
Episode Highlights:
"The Last Son of Krypton": Spoiler Alert: Krypton explodes!!! Ok you probably knew that already...but this three part episode features the origin of Superman and his journey to become the hero that we all know and love. This episode introduces us to Metropolis, Smallville, Lois, Jimmy, Perry White, Lex Luthor, John Corbin and more!
"A Little Piece of Home": Lex Luthor discovers the one thing that can stop Superman: Kryptonite! How can Clark stop Lex now?
"Stolen Memories": Brainiac returns! Superman learns of his past and Brainiac's relationship with his home planet. Superman must rush to save Earth and stop it from sharing the same fate as Krypton!
"The Main Man": Lobo comes to Earth in this two part episode. Now Superman and Lobo must work together to escape from an intergalactic zoo!
"Blasts from the Past": Kneel before Zod! When Superman discovers the Phantom Zone generator, Zod is accidently released from his prision. Can Superman stop three Kryptonians?
"World's Finest": Batman and Superman meet for the first time in this animated three part adventure. The two heroes must team-up to face against Lex Luthor and Joker! Mark Hamill, Clancy Brown, Tim Daly and Kevin Conroy are at their best in this episode and provided some of the most memorable interactions in the series.
"Brave New Metropolis": Lois gets thrown into an alternate dimension where Lex Luthor and Superman rule with an iron fist! Can Lois help change this world and convince Superman to become a hero once more?
"Little Girl Lost": Yay for mini-skirts! Superman's cousin Kara joins the series as a regular castmember. Clark finds his cousin in suspended animation and introduces her to Earth as his cousin. It doesn't take long for Kara to get into trouble and she joins her cousin in the fight against evil as Supergirl!
"In Brightest Day": Kyle Rayner (who looks a lot like Hal Jordan in this incarnation) joins forces with the Man of Steel to stop the renagade Green Lantern known as Sinestro. This episode features Kyle's origin and sets up his role in future Justice League Animated Series.
"A Fish Story": The King of Atlantis has been captured by Lex Luthor and now Superman must save our aquatic hero! This classic encounter with Aquaman also setup future Justice League stories as well.
Special Features:

• Commentary by Bruce Timm, Paul Dini, Alan Burnett, Dan Riba, Glen Murakami, Curt Geda, Jason Hillhouse, James Tucker, and Butch Lukic on many episodes
• Selectable Pop-Up Trivia Tracks
• SUPERMAN: Learning to Fly – Explores the Creation of the Series
• Building the Mythology: Superman’s Supporting Cast- Showcases the Supporting Players in the SUPERMAN Saga
• Menaces of Metropolis: Behind the Villains of SUPERMAN – The Origin and Evolution of Superman’s Adventures
• SUPERMAN: Behind the Cape – David Kaufman (The Voice of JIMMY OLSEN) Takes You Behind the Scenes with the Show’s Creative Team
• Look, Up in the Sky! The Amazing Story of SUPERMAN– Excerpt From the New Documentary Produced by Bryan Singer and Kevin Burns
• Bonus Disc Featuring the All-New Documentary The Despot DARKSEID: A Villain Worthy of SUPERMAN

Overall:
Let's be honest: everything Bruce Timm touches turns to gold. This series falls in line perfectly with the work done on Batman: The Animated Series and many of the stepping stones created in this series paved the way for characters and future stories in the Justice League and Justice League Unlimited Series. With Batman and Justice League Complete Sets already out, Superman is a perfect addition for anyone's collection. The new Bonus disc features a great documentary about Darkseid and is only available with this set.
ComicsOnline gives Superman: The Complete Animated Series 5 out of 5 animate series that we have always wanted in a complete set.

DVD Review: Swingtown: The First Season

The CBS summer show Swingtown is a fine example of how excellent shows sometimes never get a chance to really shine. It was heartbreaking for fans of this interesting slice of 70's goodness to hear it was canceled after only one season. Originally intended to be a mid-season replacement, the Writer's Strike caused Swingtown to be put off until the summer, and perhaps that was the death blow before it even began. Set in the mid-seventies, the show explores romance, the destruction of 'traditional' marriage, friendship, class differences, coming of age growth, and of course, swingers. Now Swingtown: The First Season is out for DVD, and the tragedy is that this will be the complete series as well.

The show is essentially about three couples: Susan (Molly Parker) and Bruce (Jack Davenport), Trina (Lana Parrilla) and Tom (Grant Show), and Janet (Miriam Shor) and Roger (Josh Hopkins). Bruce is promoted and with his new salary he buys a bigger house for his family on the rich side of town. Janet and Roger, their best friends and next door neighbors for years, are left behind as Susan and Bruce step into the world of their new neighbors Trina and Tom. Those two are sexy, intelligent, secure, confident, and engaged in a very open and comfortable marriage. Drawn in to the excitement and taboo nature of swingers, Susan and Bruce experiment with their new neighbors ... and nothing is the same for them ever again. That pivotal moment is what the show really hinges upon, the opening eyes of Susan and Bruce to a decadent different world, and subsequently the consequences that come with it.

Over the course of the season Susan and Bruce slowly unravel in their relationship, and she finds herself unwillingly drawn to Roger, her best friend's husband. He is often silenced and ordered around by his strong willed wife, and it is a journey for him as well to stand up for himself. Janet without a doubt goes through the most amazing transformation. She starts out as a very rigid and traditional woman, revering the 1950's ideal of housewife, and despising Trina and Tom for taking her friends away. She also cannot handle them due to their open loving policies and general disregard for society's expectations. Janet grows close to Trina, tries marijuana for the first time, befriends a porn star, and has an awkward (and adorable) crush on Tom. On the other hand, the wild swingers find a hiccup in their 'perfect' relationship when Tom is forced to fly to Tokyo all the time. They decide to be exclusive to weather it out together.

The children have stories of their own which reflect growing up in this new age, and that is what Swingtown is all about. Generations now cannot understand how big a change came about during the 60's and 70's, and how many families struggled against or for it. This show had a lot of soap opera-ish drama, but it was a period piece, an exploration of a time just as it is sexuality, conformity, and individuality. One of the major problems in the show was how it always seemed to be held back. It would have suited a more mature channel like HBO or Showtime, who they did approach first. To really get into depth about the revolution of sex and freedom you have to be able to show it, and they really could not on mainstream networks. A lot of the original feel for the show had to be watered down and cut for its more mainstream audience, and therein lay a serious problem. How do you turn a mature show into a suitable one when the former is its niche? We can spend months debating why it is that Swingtown was canceled, but all I can say is after watching the entire show in one sitting, it seems more of a tragedy than ever.

Swingtown: The First Season comes with all thirteen episodes and several special features. There are two commentary tracks; one for the pilot, and one for the finale. Extras include "Spirit of '76: The Making of Swingtown," a fantastic feature named "Have a Nice Revolution: Sex & Morality in 1970's America," deleted scenes, and a gag reel. The commentaries are very in depth about the origin of the show and how they planned out the historical aspects as well as the character development. I was fascinated by the interviews and comments made by the actors during the "Making Of" video, but the look back at the 70's and the show's reflection of it was especially wonderful.

Any fan of the show absolutely must get a copy of its one and only season. For anyone who missed this show, it is worth watching. The realistic characters and their elaborate relationships will draw you in even if the colorful charm of the 70's setting does not first. It was an exceptional show unfortunately lost to the TV Gods, and we are the poorer for it. Swingtown: The First Season is available in stores now for $28.99, so get out there and take it to the limit ... one more time!

ComicsOnline gives Swingtown: The First Season 4 out of 5 canceled TV shows.
 

DVD Review: Tales from the Darkside, The First Season

Idyllic country scenes, lush fields, serene forests, babbling brooks "Man lives in the sunlit world of what he believes to be reality, but, there is unseen by most an underworld, a place that is just as real, but not as brightly lit, a darkside", as the ending scenes turn to the photographic negative.

And so begins each episode of Tales from the Darkside, a half-hour horror anthology series in the vein of The Twilight Zone. The First Season contains 24 episodes, the pilot (1983) and 23 episodes in the first season 9/30/1984 – 8/4/1985), on three discs.

The episode line ups are:
DISC 1

Trick or Treat (Pilot) with optional commentary by George Romero, The New Man, I’ll Give You A Million, Pain Killer, The Odds, Mookie And Pookie, Slippage, Inside The Closet

DISC 2

The Word Processor Of The Gods, A Case Of The Stubborns, Djinn No Chaser, All A Clone By The Telephone, In The Cards, Anniversary Dinner, Snip, Snip, Answer Me.

DISC 3

The Tear Collector, Madness Room, If The Shoes Fit, Levitation, It All Comes Out In The Wash, Bigalow’s Last Smoke, Grandma’s Last Wish, The False Prophet.

Look for appearances by Justine Bateman, Vic Tayback, Harry Anderson, Carol Kane, Bud Cort, Alice Ghostly, Dorothy Lyman, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Christian Slater, Brent Spiner, Tippi Hedron, and Danny Aiello.

The first season of Tales From The Darkside was hit and miss for me. Quite a few of the episodes feel incomplete, rushed or unfinished. Others are clichéd or have been done in other anthologies. But there are enough to really surprise you, to make you go Whoa.
Tales From The Darkside suffered from not being mainstream enough to be on primetime and seemed relegated to Friday and Saturday nights after the news. The first season may not have been the greatest horror anthology to hit TV, but it had enough potential for three more seasons, and enough potential for me to look forward to the next three collections.
"Your darkside is always there waiting for us to enter, waiting to enter us. Until the next time try to enjoy the daylight."

Comicsonline gives Tales from the Darkside, The First Season 3 guest stars out of 5.

 

 

DVD Review: The Adventures of Merlin the Complete Second Season

Cometh with me if you want to liveth.

Season two of the BBC’s hit series Merlin surprised me.  I wasn’t sure after the end of season one that the series would be able to maintain its momentum, or develop its characters deeply enough to make the show believable for any length of time.  One of the things you have to love about BBC productions however is that they’re so obviously not Hollywood, everything seems so much more real in a BBC series, and Merlin is no exception.   Perhaps it sounds strange to place a show based entirely on fantasy into the category of “more real”, but bear with me while I make my case.

This season of Merlin has more CGI, magic and monsters, but it doesn’t rely on special effects to carry the show, rather it uses those effects to enhance a solid storyline and well thought out character development.  No series starts out perfect, and the ones that survive have to make both their development and potential for future development obvious enough to the viewer that they’re willing to stick with the show through its often painful adolescence.  Anyone who’s ever gone back and re-watched the first season of their favorite show can tell you about that “Wow, was it really that awkward the first year?” feeling you get while watching it.  Merlin jumps into season two with characters already showing signs of developing into the seasoned heroes and villains we know they’re going to become, and the cast is already forming into a more cohesive unit. 

Merlin (Colin Morgan) is a young, clumsy, under appreciated servant destined to help save a king who will save a kingdom, the prince (Bradley James) who will become that king is spoiled and arrogant, Morgana (Katie McGrath) is not Arthur’s sister and Mordred is not her son, Gweneviere (Angel Coulby) is a servant and magic is outlawed.  This is not our parents Arthurian storyline kids, but let’s admit it, we wouldn’t be watching it if it was!

Season two of Merlin takes the viewer on an exciting, intriguing and sometimes funny ride.  Uther (Anthony Head) continues his Spanish Inquisitional type obsession with magic being the root of all his ills, while Arthur is learning more about himself and they type of king he wants to become.  Morgana’s powers are developing out of her control, and Gwen is already torn between the two men she’s destined to love.  Add to that a myriad of monsters, a witch finder, an assassin, a troll bride, and a powerful and duplicitous dragon, just to name a few, and you have a season not only entertaining but leaving you waiting to see what season three will bring. 

The DVD set also includes some great special features, Behind the Scenes, The Making of Merlin, and my personal favorite The Cast and Crew Introduction to Season Two, where all of the cast give their insights into the development of their characters and storylines.

Merlin The Complete Second Season

• Format:Color, DVD, Widescreen, NTSC
• Language:English
• Number of discs:5
• Rated: NR (Not Rated)
• Studio:BBC
• DVD Release Date:January 18, 2011
• Run Time:571 minutes

ComicsOnline gives The Adventures of Merlin the Complete Second Season 4 out of 5 dragon scales.

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DVD Review: The All New Super Friends Hour Season 1 Vol. 2

Remember a simpler time? A time before Frank Miller made Batman “The Dark Knight”? Before Aquaman lost his hand in a bizarre fishing accident? A time before Wonder woman killed a man, and everyone else has died and been resurrected (mostly)? Welcome to 1977 and The All New Super Friends Hour: Season 1 Vol. 2.

This collection of episodes centers on the team-ups of Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, with Aquaman, and Green Lantern. And don’t forget the Wonder Twins Jan and Jayna. The all New Super friends Hour: Season 1 Vol. 2 is a mix of super baddies, some known some not, taken care of the super-heroes, and regular misfortunes, solved by the twins. And between the episodes are snippets of puzzles and positive messages for the kids.

Special Features are :

The Wonder Twins Phenomenon: Jan and Jayna’s Impact On Pop Culture

So let’s look at this set; the animation is 32 years old, the stories lack the major villains of the heroes’ storylines, and, well, let’s face it, they’re clean, wholesome, light-hearted, and fun. Yes, fun, family fun, the perfect vehicle for young children to be introduced to the world of superheroes, right under the noses of their mothers. And besides, shows like this are just so gosh-darn fun.

ComicsOnline gives The All New Super Friends Hour: Season 1 Vol. 2 5 wholesome heroes out of 5

 

DVD Review: The Avengers - Volumes 1 and 2

Written by Matt Sernaker, Senior Editor

When evil threatens the world, it's time for The Avengers to Assemble! Now, you can watch Captain America, Thor, Ant-Man, The Wasp, Hulk, and Iron Man as they face off against Hydra, Klaw, Loki, and the escaped villains of The Raft in Volumes 1 and 2 of The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes on DVD!

This new animated series focuses on the classic Avengers line up , and introduces viewers to a modern interpretation of how the team formed. Prior to the series premiere, Disney XD released 20 webisodes which were short glimpses into the world of our heroes. In Volume 1, these 20 webisodes have been reordered and separated out so that fans can experience a complete story of heroism.

Volume 1 Episode Highlights:
"Iron Man Is Born!"- Iron Man steps in to help fight off a Hydra attack on the United Nations and realizes that he might be in over his head. This episode is a perfect example of how the team behind the series have attempted to tie the cartoon into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as Robert Downey Jr's portayal of Tony Stark gets unleashed in an animated form. Tony must find a way to stop this new threat, and gets a little help from Rhodey, Pepper Potts, and Jarvis (his enhanced A.I. system).

"Meet Captain America"- Set during WWII, witness Captain America and Buckey's fight against The Red Skull! This is a classic Captain America story, featuring cameos from The Howling Comandos and other surprise Marvel Universe characters (maybe a certain Canadian...).

"The Breakout" Parts 1 and 2- When a massive attack on several SHIELD facilities unleashes 74 villains into the world, heroes must team up to find and stop these foes before they can cause unimaginable damage. Iron Man, The Hulk, Ant-Man, and The Wasp fight together to contain the newly released Graviton. The heroes realize that someone must seek out the escapees, and avenge those who have been wronged by these villains; thus The Avengers are born. This episode has a lot of references to the classic formation of the team from the 1960's, as well as elements taken from the formation of the team in the New Avengers comics. Keep an eye out for apperances by Hawkeye, Doc Samson, Nick Fury and more!

Volume 1 Special Feature:
New Looks, New Heroes - Supervising Producer Joshua Fine and Story Editor Christopher Yost give you an exclusive look at the evolving characters and the storylines of Season Two.

Volume 2 Episode Highlights:
"Living Legend"- Captain America returns! After years of being frozen in suspended animation, Cap finds himself in a world that he doesn't understand. When Baron Zemo attacks, Cap is called into action and must find a way to stop Zemo and his genetically altered creature, "Doughboy". For fans of the comics, there are many fantastic parallels to Cap's introduction in the original series. The fact that Captain America isn't even introduced until the fourth episode is a nice homage to the history of the character (his first apperance in The Avengers was in issue #4).

"Panther's Quest"- The Black Panther seeks help from The Avengers to overthrow the Man-Ape (yup, that is a Black Panther villain...not even making it up) who has taken over his homeland of Wakanda. The threats keep coming as secrets are revealed and the team must also face Klaw, Hydra, and the Grim Reaper!

Volume 2 Special Feature:
New Stories, New Threats - Supervising Producer Joshua Fine and Story Editor Christopher Yost reveal what meaks the Marvel super heroes and villains so unique, and hunt at what's in store for Season Two.

Overall:
The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes is a testiment to the comics and does justice to the Marvel Universe. While it works to encorporate elements from the recent cinematic releases, the creative team have also gone out of their way to make this series feel epic in scale. Christopher Yost has taken his experience with Wolverine and The X-Men and applied it directly to The Avengers. This series is a must for any superhero fan.

ComicsOnline gives The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes Volumes 1 and 2 on DVD - 5 out of 5 times that you enjoy yelling AVENGERS ASSEMBLE!!!

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DVD Review: The Avengers- Earth's Mightiest Heroes - Volumes 3 and 4

by Matt Sernaker, Managing Editor

Avengers Assemble!

The Avengers have come to save the day in Volumes 3 and 4 of the hit animated series, now available to own on DVD! Cap, Thor, Iron Man, and the rest of the team must come together to face new threats from Kang The Conqueror, The Masters of Evil, Hydra, and Loki in these Season One adventures. 

DVD Review: The Big Bang Theory Season Two

Leonard, Sheldon, Penny, Howard, and Rajesh are back for The Second Season of The Big Bang Theory! The guys have a lot on their plate this season as their dating lives take an unexpected turn! What happens when Summer Glau makes an appearance in their lives? And how could Howard have broken the Mars Rover? Will Penny and Leonard finally find happiness? All these things will be covered during these hilarious (and addictive) 22 episodes!

Episode Highlights:
"The Bad Fish Paradigm"-
Penny and Leonard finally have a chance for romance but when Penny starts to feel intimidated by Leonard's intelligence, she begins to question her choices in life. Penny confides in Sheldon, who in turn freaks out about having to keep information from Leonard. He decides to move out and attempts to live with Howard and Rajesh, but is quickly returned home by the men after they realize that they can't handle Sheldon.

"The Barbarian Sublimation"-
Hey everyone! This episode shows that girls can play video games too! While locked out of her apartment, Penny once again vents to Sheldon about her life and how frustrated she has been with trying to find acting jobs and a lack of a sex-life. Sheldon invites her in to his apartment to wait for a locksmith, and Penny ends up getting hooked on a World of Warcraft-like game called Age of Conan. Things get even more interesting when she realizes that she has said yes to having an online date with Howard...

"The Griffin Equivalency"-
Raj is named one of the "30 Under 30 to Watch" by People Magazine! Now the man who couldn't talk to women suddenly has a new found confidence! Raj asks Penny to be his date to the Awards Dinner but things don't quite goes as Raj plans. Kunal Nayyar is at his best in this episode as the loveable Rajesh. It is great to see such well thought out development for the character who says the least on the show.

"The Bath Item Gift Hypothesis"-
It's Christmas time and Sheldon is thrown off by Penny's arrival with a gift. He then determines that he must engage in the ritual of buying gifts and asks for Howard and Raj's help to find Penny the best gift possible. This episode features the best moment of the season which involves Penny, Sheldon, and a Star Trek castmember. Check this one out!

"The Friendship Algorithm"-
In order to gain access to a Super Computer at the lab, Sheldon must first become friends with the one man who has control over its access: Dr. Kripke. Sheldon acctually seems to make some headway but decides that he can't maintain a friendship with more than 4 people at once, and one of his current friends will be getting the boot! Who will it be?

"The Monopolar Expedition"-
Sheldon is given an opportunity to travel to the North Pole to test his hypothesis about String Theory. What is even more surprising is that Sheldon wants Leonard, Raj and Howard to come with him as his team. The three debate over giving up months (and being stuck with Sheldon) versus a summer free OF Sheldon. Penny is upset to learn that the guys (or more specifically Leonard) will be leaving for the three months. She holds back on telling Leonard how she really feels and lets them leave on their adventure.

Special Features:
-Physcist to the Stars: Real-life Physicist/UCLA Professor David Saltzberg's Consulting Relationship to the show
-Testing the Infinite Hilarity Hypothesis in Relationship to The Big Bang Theory
-Gag Reel

Overall:
I have to admit, this show is quite addictive. It is very easy to put a disc into your DVD player and watch the entire thing without realizing how much time has passed. The writing is extremely clever and witty. This show has something for everyone, whether or not you are a geek yourself. This season was a lot more consistent than the first season, and allowed for much more exploration of the characters and new hilarious situations to occur. Kaley Cuoco (Penny) seems much more comfortable with her fellow castmates. Jim Parsons (Sheldon), Johnny Galecki (Leonard), Simon Helberg (Howard), and Kunal Nayyar (Raj) are the perfect group of friends and it is not hard to believe that they are close friends. If you haven't been watching this show, we highly recommend adding it to your list.

ComicsOnline gives The Big Bang Theory: The Complete Second Season  5 out of 5 attempts at getting the cute girl who likes geeks.

DVD Review: The Middle - Season One

For Frankie Heck (Patricia Heaton), life is ordinary. She has a husband and three kids. She has a house and a job. She balances work and home. The difference between her and everyone else is that Frankie’s kids are oddballs, her husband is overly honest, she is terrible at her job, her idea of dinner is a drive-thru and she lives in the middle of nowhere: Orson, Indiana. Welcome to The Middle- Season One, now available on DVD!

Patricia Heaton (Everybody loves Raymond) and Neil Flynn (Scrubs) star in The Middle. This new comedy on ABC is about a family that is as ordinary as any other Midwestern middle class family who is doing everything possible to stay there. The Middle is narrated by the mother, Frankie - the center of the family, the voice of reason and the cheerleader for them. She works at a car dealership and things are not going too well. Flynn plays Mike, a man that works at a quarry and honesty is his only policy. Both of them were born and raised in the fictional town of Orson, Indiana. It is where they still live and are raising their three kids, Axl (Charlie McDermott), Sue (Eden Sher) and Brick (Atticus Shaffer). Axl, a rebellious teen football player who lives in his boxer shorts, is like any other teenager that has no desire to do his chores. Sue is an awkward girl that wears braces and was not meant to have any luck in any kind of extracurricular activity, except maybe as a picture taker for student IDs. The youngest, Brick, is a socially challenged odd kid with a photographic memory whose best friend is a backpack (note: this is not a typo).
 
Each week this quirky family finds themselves in interesting situations. Highlights of episodes include "The Cheerleader", were Frankie cheers Sue to retake her class photo three times due to the fact that she is not photogenic and she has to bribe a kid to borrow a book from the library because she didn’t have the money to pay the library fine. "The Block Party" is another winner, where Mike finally learns the secret talent of Brick: photographic memory of manuals. Brick helps Mike fix his lawnmower so he can win the block party race.
 
The voiceover narration that Heaton does is hilarious. It makes you think you are watching a documentary of a family that sometimes hits too close to home. It’s a modern family comedy that is clean cut and extremely funny. Heaton’s acting has nothing to do to the previous roles she has played in primetime. While Flynn does have a similar vocabulary as his previous "Janitor" persona, he does a fabulous job to differentiate between them.
 
Special Features
-Raising a sitcom family: The series creators, Eileen Heisler and DeAnn Heline, tell us the story of how this comedy came to life. It is a very traditional way of recounting a show creation.
 
-Sue’s Best Shots: The actual shots of Sue’s school pictures and the cast, Heaton, Flynn and others, telling memorable and funny stories about their own personal experiences with school photos.
 
-Unaired Scenes & gag reel. Your usual can’t-stop-laughing, “Am I suppose to say something?” moments and other unaired scenes that should be watched.
 
Overall
The Middle is an old school kind of comedy that can be enjoyed by the whole family. If Married...With Children and Malcom in the Middle had a sitcom lovechild, it would be The Middle. This is one of those shows that has been flying under the radar and has the potential for greatness. This show has great writing, great cast and good natured humor.
 
ComicsOnline gives The Middle - Season One 4 out of 5 corn cobs.

Get your copy of The Middle - Season One on DVD at Amazon.

 

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DVD Review: The Middleman: The Complete Series

I have been surrounded by comics all of my life. My grandfather was a cartoonist during World War II. My family went to Comic-Con number zero. This has been a part of our lives. We read the western comics, the sci-fi comics, but most of all the superhero comics. So when I found out that The Middleman would be a series on ABC Famiily, I jumped at the chance to watch it. It turned out to be the best new series when it premiered, and I watched every show. It was everything that I wanted a modern superhero show to be, funny, Smart, heroic. All with a sense of self, and that which came before it. This was the new hero show.

The Middleman is a series based on a comic book, based on a script. During the series run, it aired on ABC Family for all of one season. The Middleman follows the exploits of a recently graduated art student Wendy Watson and her boss, the superhero known as the Middleman. The series also dealt with her friends Noser and Lacey Thornfield. Each episode dealt with a different problem that threatened the world, and contained a themed set of references based around one or two shows or movies.

Episode Highlights:
The Pilot Episode Sanction: Wendy Watson, a struggling artist with no job, and a desire to live somewhere answers a call from a temp agency and finds that her new job is sidekick to The Middleman
The Sino–Mexican Revolution: Sensei ping arrives to train Wendy when his enemies, a gang of Luchadores, arrive and kidnap him to pay for a decades old debt.
The Cursed Tuba Contingency: Middleman and Wendy must stop the tuba that survived the sinking of the Titanic from playing e flat and causing an entire party from drowning in the icy waters of the Atlantic.
The Palindrome Reversal Palindrome: Wendy is thrown into a mirror universe and must convince the mirror Middleman to help get her home

With the sheer amount of special features on this boxed set, the features on disc 4 will have to be run down in a list.

Special Features:
Weekly Javicasts: Weekly video podcasts by the creator of the show answering questions for each episode.
The ABC Family Middleman-ager: 2 minute Previews for episodes introduced by a character called the Middleman-ager.
The Wilhelm Scream: A short history lesson on the Wilhelm Scream, and the location of every Wilhelm scream in the episode.
The Evolution of the Opening Title Sequence: The three different versions of the title sequence for the show.
“The Palindrome Reversal Palindrome” Table Read: A Table read of the entire final aired show.
“Scream Ur Luv 4 Me” Music Video: A music video for the song featured in the episode “The Boy-Band Superfan Interrogation” by Varsity Fanclub.
PSA’s: The PSA’s made to be used as commercials leading up to the premiere of The Middleman on ABC Family
A Gallery of Photography by Ralph King: A photo gallery slideshow of the show by Ralph King.
More: Alternate scenes, web featurettes, a gag reel, and casting sessions.

The Middleman has more references per capita than any show on television, so I can only give the bold strokes and you what some of the major themes of the references were for some of the episodes the episodes, to get a more detailed idea, watch the show. In the episode “The Accidental Occidental Conception” many names used throughout were taken from Dune. For “The Manicoid Teleportation Conundrum” names and places through out were references of Back to the Future like KBTTF the local TV station. In “The Palindrome Reversal Palindrome” The episode bases the whole alternate dimension on Escape from New York and “Mirror, Mirror” from Star Trek. These are just a few of the references weaved through the tapestry of the series.

I watched this series in it’s first run on ABC Family, and loved every second of it. The show is witty, fun, exciting, and if you like comic books it is a clever homage, parody, and serious take on superheroes all in one take. This is a series that is great for everyone. It’s even good for kids to watch. They may use some tongue in cheek humor, but they never swear. I’d bleeped and censored over in a joke that’ll be funny for the adults. This is one to check out, share, and heck, maybe even start a good old fashioned letter writing campaign to get it back.

Comics Online gives The Middleman: The Complete Series 5 HEYDARs out of 5.

DVD Review: The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest

In the early 90's someone made the great choice to revive a cult classic animated series, Jonny Quest. The new series aired on Cartoon Network and ran for a total of 52 episodes over the course of two seasons. Jonny and Hadji are now teenagers and still travel the world on new adventures with Dr. Quest and Race Bannon! Warner Brothers has just released the first volume of a 90's classic animated series, The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest.

This series took the original characters from the Jonny Quest series and gave them a modern update. Jonny of course returns with his best friend Hadji, his protector Race Bannon and his father Dr. Benton Quest. This time however, they are joined by Race's daughter Jessie! In this series Dr Quest has invented a new high tech virtual reality simulation called "Quest World". Dr. Surd, an old foe of Race Bannon, becomes interested in this new technology and wants to control it by himself. Now the Quest team must face off against this newly enhanced villain!

The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest featured some great voice talent including Frank Welker (Transformers) and Robert Patrick (Terminator 2 and X-Files).

Episodes
This set contains the first 13 episodes of the series:

-The Darkest Fathoms- An old school style story with Pirates!

-Escape To QuestWorld - One of the best episodes of the season and introduces QuestWorld to the Jonny Quest Universe. If every episode had been like this, the series would have lasted a lot longer.

-In The Realm Of The Condor- Jonny Quest and the city of El Dorado

-Rage's Burning Wheel- For some reason Jonny and Hadji go into space but end up in trouble when bad guys take over mission control

-Ndovu's Last Journey- Another classic adventure involving poachers

-Manhattan Maneater- The Quest team must track a tiger that is loose in NYC. Isn't this what Animal Control is for?

-East Of Zanzibar- Sea monsters attack! The Quest team must find a way
to stop these creatures before they can hurt anyone.

-Assault On Questworld- Dr Surd attacks QuestWorld while Dr. Quest and Race are out of town. Now Jonny and Jessie but take their father's places and try to stop Surd before he can harm Hadji!

-Ezekiel Rage- A new villain takes the stage as Rage takes revenge against Race.

-Alien In Washington- Ahhh! Aliens have landed on Earth. Transmissions from extraterrestrials are received warning to stop space
experiments...will we take their advice?

-Return Of The Anasazi- Dr Quest receives a package from and old friend named Alice Starseer...which leads to all sorts of trouble for Jonny and Jessie as someone else wants what the package contains!

-The Alchemist- Dr Quest has been sent to find the Philosopher's Stone

-Trouble On The Colorado- Alice returns and Dr Surd wants to have a chat about her recent experiences...

Special Features

The only special feature on the set is called “Jonny Quest Returns: Modernizing a Classic for a New Generation of Fans.” It is a great making of documentary and is a nice featurette about the series.

Overall
Many people didn't like this new interpretation and had issues with the writing. I felt that the series was a fun homage to the original and was a great new take on some classic characters. When I heard that WB was going to be releasing this series on DVD I was very excited. I remember trying to find the episodes on TV and eagerly looked forward to each weekly installment. The minds behind this series had a lot of fun and did capture the elements that made the original enjoyable. I look forward to the future releases from the Real Adventures of Johnny Quest.

ComicsOnline gives The Real Adventures of Johnny Quest 4 out of 5 cartoons featuring Frank Welker.

DVD Review: The Real Ghostbusters: The Complete Series

When there's something strange in your neighborhood, who ya gonna call?

GHOSTBUSTERS!

In 1984 something big happened: A film called Ghostbusters about 4 crazy guys hunting ghosts captivated audiences across the country. The movie eventually lead to a sequel and started one of the greatest stories and surprising franchises of our childhood. Now thanks to Time-Life, The Real Ghostbusters: The Complete Series is available for the first time EVER on DVD. The series set includes all 147 episodes on 25 discs. Yes, 25 discs! This is as complete as it gets folks! But wait, there's more: OVER 12 hours of NEW interviews, introductions, and more!
 

The series established itself with the help of some awesome voice talent and writing talent who you should still recognize today:

Voices:
Dave Coulier (Uncle Joey from Full House)
Lorenzo Music (Garfield)
Maurice LaMarche (Brain from Pinky and the Brain and Calculon from Futurama)
Frank Welker (Megatron from Transformers)
Arsenio Hall (Coming to America)

Writing:
Acclaimed writer J. Michael Straczynski wrote the first 78 episodes of the hit series. He helped to set the dark tone that made this series stand out from other cartoons of its time. You might recognize Straczynski's name because he created Babylon 5. Additionally his run on Marvel's Amazing Spider-Man is considered to be one of the best interpretations of the character in recent years.

Highlights
One of the coolest parts about the series is that is drew from different cultures mythologies and folklore. During the 147 episodes Peter, Ray, Egon and Winston fought against ghosts, vampires, monsters, Cthulhu, werewolves, and even the boogeyman!

"Ghosts-R-Us"- When Slimer accidentally releases a Class 5 spectre from the containment unit the guys must rush to recapture them. Only one thing stands in their way: Ghosts-R-US! Now they must capture the ghosts and learn the identity of their competitors (who are actually the escaped ghosts themselves!)

"The Boogeyman Cometh"- The guys must go run around New York and go house to house to stop the elusive Boogeyman! When they get sucked into the Boogeyman's world, they must fight to stop this trickster once and for all!

"Take Two"- The team fly to Hollywood to see the set of a movie being made about them. During the tour they come under attack by ghosts and find themselves without their gear. Now they must find a way to trap the ghosts.

"Citizen Ghost"- One of the best and most memorable episodes of the series. This episode explores the time gap between the movie and the beginning of the series. Learn what the team did right after their fight with GOZER! How did Slimer join up with the team? What happened to the original uniforms seen in the movie? All this and more is answered in this amazing episode

"Ghost Busted"- After the guys capture all the ghosts in NYC they come to a realization: They are broke! The team accidentally stops a robbery and decide to go into the crime fighting business! Thus the Crime Busters are born!

"Janine Melnitz, Ghostbuster"- When the city becomes overwhelmed with ghosts Janine has to solve a ghost problem on her own and dawns a jumpsuit and a proton pack!

"Halloween II 1/2"- The spirit of Halloween is here! Samhain is released from the containment unit and begins to cause havoc across the city! It is also interesting to note that Samhain is one of the only reoccurring villains during the series run.

DVD Features
Where do I begin? This set has more features than I have ever seen.

-Promo Pilot- The original four minute pilot for the Real Ghostbusters (never before aired)

-Promo Pilot Visual Commentary- Director Kevin Altieri and artist Dan Riba provide commentary

-Extended interviews with Joe Medjuck (Exec Producer), Michael Gross (Exec Producer), J. Michael Straczynski (Writer and Story Editor), Kevin Altieri (Director and Storyboard Supervisor), Maurice LaMarche (Egon Spengler), Laura Summer (first voice of Janine), and Kath Soucie (second voice of Janine).

-DVD Promo trailer

-Alternate Series Credits

-DVD ROM with Series Bibles and Promo Pilot Storyboard for the Real Ghostbusters in PDF format (This is probably the coolest feature included in the entire set!!!)

-The Real Ghostbusters Image Galleries

-Episodic Scripts and Storyboards

-Featurette: "Ain't Afraid Of No Ghosts: Creating the Real Ghostbusters"

-Featurette: "Animating the Real Ghostbusters"

-Featurette: "Who Ya Gonna Call: The Heroes of the Real Ghostbusters"- A look at the transition between real actors to the cartoon counterparts (another awesome featurette!)

-Featurette: "Something Strange In The Neighborhood: The Creatures of the Real Ghostbusters"


Packaging
It is also worth noting that the packaging itself was specially designed to look like the home base of the Ghostbusters: The Iconic Firehouse! The DVDs are encased in steel cases and showcase production art and character art for the series. It has a separate paper sleeve for the bonus disc which has most of the special features.

Overall
This is probably the most comprehensive collection of any animated series that has been released. With over 12 hours of new features created for this series it makes this set a MUST HAVE for any Ghostbusters fan. The series does justice to the movies and allows for further exploration of the character's and their universe. If you are looking for a great holiday gift for someone who grew up in the 80s and 90s this would definitely be a good choice!

ComicsOnline gives The Real Ghostbusters: The Complete Series 5 out of 5 captured ghosts!
 

DVD Review: The Sarah Silverman Program Season 2 Voume 2

Up next on Comedy Central, The Sarah Silverman Program! The 2^nd part of the season 2 is upon us after the end of the writers strike with more jokes, awkward moments, and guest appearances. The Sarah Silverman Program Season 2 Voume 2 is not a typical sitcom release and it makes for a unique viewing experience that fans of the show as well as her off-the-wall style of comedy will certainly appreciate.
 

 

First off, as a warning to those who haven’t seen this show, it’s bat-shit crazy.  In one episode, you’re likely to see Sarah reminisce about peeing in a Pringles can, sue an entire country, give birth to a flying green monster, or marry her dog.  It’s like Seinfeld was in the 90’s, it’s a show about nothing. There is no ongoing plot to the series and none of it makes any sense, but if that doesn’t bother you, you’ll find it is an incredibly funny show.

The show features the same five main characters throughout each episode: Sarah, her sister Laura, Jay, her “Gaybors,” Steve and Brian. Each has their own personalities with Sarah being the always irresponsible one and Jay and Laura just the opposite.  Brian and Steve are the atypical gay couple with their own quirks generally causing arguments between the two.  The show also has loads of guest appearances throughout featuring Missi Pyle, Mark Cohen, and Lyndsey Stoddart, to name a few.

Highlights

The Sarah Silverman Program might possibly be the king of producing an awkward situation.  In every episode there are several moments that make you cringe at what is said or done.  Every time Jay (Jay Johnston) opens his mouth is usually one of those moments.  He is easily one of the funniest characters of the show, not only in what he does or says, but in his look and demeanor.  He’s a proverbial man-child and each opportunity his police work is used is extremely funny to watch. Watching him “make out” with a pony in the “Making new Friends” episode is positively hilarious.

My favorite episodes of the lot were “High, it’s Sarah” and “There’s no place like homeless.”  “High” has Sarah smoking pot for the first time with Brian.  They commit a bunch of random acts of stupidity while high and Sarah leaves herself voicemails reminding her to follow up on her acts while sober. One such act is kidnapping a CEO of a large company. “Homeless” Has Sarah losing her apartment keys and living with Mike, a homeless friend.  She finds a way to turn living on the street into a positive thing despite how ridiculously bad it is.  The “watching tv” bit is particularly awesome.

Special Features

We get this as Season 2B because of the writers’ strike and it comes as a two-disc collection with only ten episodes across both discs.  Despite what the packaging said, episode one through four were on the first disc and five through ten were on the second.  Special features are done differently here with most of them contained on the first disc in a section called Odds N’ Ends.  They include behind the scenes featurettes along with some deleted scenes as well.  They aren’t organized in any way and it’s not always clear whether you’re watching a featurette or deleted scene.  None of either are of finished quality and the deleted scenes are usually just small extensions of other scenes that were used.

Commentary is available for every episode with most of done by writer/director Rob Schrab and writer Daniel Sterling with an occasional track done with Sarah or the other cast members.  Most of the time the cast stays on subject and it’s all very amusing.  If you’re already a fan of the show, it’s another reason to watch the episodes again.  The directors explaining how they came up with some of the jokes is pretty interesting. The second disc features three webisodes called Fantastimart, Sarah’s Magic Purse, and Steve and Brian. They are animated and run between five and ten minutes individually. They feature the same type of humor from the show and take a cue from Family Guy in their outrageousness. 

Overall

 The Sarah Silverman Program Season 2 Voume 2 offers lots of odd humor, racial stereotypes, and plenty of awkward situations. If that doesn’t turn you off, there’s plenty to love here.

ComicsOnline gives The Sarah Silverman Program Season 2 Voume 2 four out of five Gaybors.
 

 

Buy The Sarah Silverman Program Season 2 Voume 2 at Amazon.com now.

 

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DVD Review: The Simpsons Season 12

BEST. DVD COLLECTION. EVER.


One night in April of 1987, my brother Dan insisted that the whole family stop whatever we were doing to watch some show I’d never even heard of called The Tracey Ullman Show.  One of us must have grumbled about it, because he launched into a defensive explanation immediately. 
“Remember the guy I worked for at the Comic-Con a few years back, Matt Groening?” he asked, and was met with blank stares.  “You know the guy who sent me the autographed Life in Hell book? Well tonight he’s going to have a cartoon on The Tracy Ulman Show!” His tone made it clear that we were missing just how exciting this was.  None the less, we all patiently sat waiting to see this “amazing” cartoon, much more I suspect because of my brother’s awe of the man who’d remembered the 12-year-old boy volunteer enough to mail him an autographed book, than because we actually expected anything amazing.  Little did we all know we were actually watching history being made.

Twenty-two years later The Simpsons TV show is in its 21^st season.  For years I watched it religiously, and still catch episodes whenever I can,  yet I’d never bought any of the seasons on DVD.  After reviewing the season 12 DVDs I can tell you that will definitely be changing.  With five days at the San Diego Comic-Con fresh in my mind I spent at least half an hour just enjoying the details of the packaging artwork, consisting of scene after scene of Simpsons characters attending the “BI-MON-SCI-FI-CON”, which could only have been created by artists who’d seen more than a few conventions in their time.

The attention to detail given to the makeup of the DVD’s was also fantastic.  The unique menus, the animations on the main menu screens, and the sheer wealth of special features were amazing.  More than that, I found I really enjoyed watching the full season of episodes again, seeing where the never-aging characters were nine years ago, and marveling at how I could still be surprised by them.  Catching episodes that somehow I’d managed never to see originally, and remembering my favorite bits and favorite episodes from the season. 

By far my favorite of the special features was the "Comic Book Guy: Best. Moments. Ever." Featurette.  Like myself, I suspect that every real Simpsons fan not only knows a “Comic Book Guy” but has more than a bit of him in them.  I laughed through the entire featurette.  I’ve always enjoy deleted scenes because its great insight into what goes into the process of deciding the balance between “just enough” and “too much” in the given time period of a show, and this season included a ton of them.  It’s also a great chance to showcase what might have been a really great scene if only time had allowed for it, giving the viewer a chance to appreciate writing and performances they would otherwise have missed.
Seeing this season of The Simpsons again, and getting to appreciate all of the extra work and attention that went into the smallest details and the biggest extra features, has convinced me that I need to start my Simpsons DVD collection now.  That way someday I’ll not only be able to tell my grandchildren the story of how I saw it live when the whole thing started, but show them with 21+ seasons of fantastic entertainment why that was such an amazing thing.  I suggest you all do the same.
Thanks Dan for making us all watch, and thanks Mr. Groening for inspiring a 12-year-old Comic-Con volunteer enough for him to give me the chance of becoming such a big fan!

  
The Simpsons: The Twelfth SeasonSpecial Features:
All episodes are compiled on four discs (full frame, aspect ratio 1.33:1).  Each episode is presented with English 5.1 Dolby Surround, Spanish and French Stereo and English, French and Spanish subtitles.  The following is a breakdown of each disc:
 
Disc One:

• Treehouse of Horror XI
• A Tale of Two Springfields
• Insane Clown Poppy
• Lisa the Tree Hugger
• Homer vs. Dignity
• Additional Bonus Features Include:

§         Commentaries featuring Executives Producers, Writers, Directors, Cast and many more
§         Illustrated Commentary: Lisa the Tree Hugger
§         Animation Showcase: Treehouse of Horror XI
§         Deleted Scenes
§         Special Language Feature: Homer Vs. Dignity
 
Disc Two:

• The Computer Wore Menace Shoes
• The Great Money Caper
• Skinner’s Sense of Snow
• HOMR
• Pokey Mom
• Worst Episode Ever
• Additional Bonus Features Include:

§         Commentaries featuring Executives Producers, Writers, Directors, Cast and many more
§         Deleted Scenes
§         Comic Book Guy: Best. Moments. Ever. featurette
§         Illustrated Commentary: HOMR
 
Disc Three:

• Tennis the Menace
• Day of the Jackanapes
• New Kids on the Blecch
• Hungry, Hungry Homer
• Bye Bye Nerdie
• Simpsons Safari
• Additional Bonus Features Include:

§         Commentaries featuring Executives Producers, Writers, Directors, Cast and many more
§         Deleted Scenes
§         Animation Showcase: Day of the Jackanapes
 
Disc Four:

• Trilogy of Error
• I’m Goin’ to Praiseland
• Children of a Lesser Clod
• Simpson Tall Tales
• Additional Bonus Features Include:

§         Commentaries featuring Executives Producers, Writers, Directors, Cast and many more
§         Deleted Scenes with optional commentary by Executive Producer Mike Scully
§         Global Fanfest
§         Sketch Gallery
§         Illustrated Commentary: I’m Goin’ to Praiseland
§         The Commercials


 ComicsOnline gives The Simpsons: The Twelfth Season 4 out of 5 mint copies of Radioactive Man #1!

DVD Review: The Spectacular Spider-Man Volume 5

New adventures of our favorite wall-crawler are now on DVD as Volume Five of The Spectacular Spider-Man comes home for your collection. Following the events of Season One, Peter has been searching for his lost friend, Eddie Brock, who was last seen sporting a very evil symbiotic costume. Pete feels that Eddie's situation is his fault and he wants to desperately save his friend...but it might be too late. This first volume, featuring the Master Planner story arc, introduces us to new incarnations of classic Spider-Man villains like Mysterio, Kraven The Hunter, The Master Planner and more!

Over the last year we have had the opportunity to speak with the team responsible for this new batch of episodes, now you can see what they have to say:

"Blueprints"- Mysterio, the self proclaimed Master of Illusion, has just entered Spider-Man's world in the exciting Season Premiere of the Spectacular Spider-Man. As if Peter didn't have enough to deal with, he must face off against this new foe as well as figuring out his strained social life. Can he fix his relationship with Gwen before he misses out on his chance? Writer Kevin Hopps gave us his take on this episode: "I liked the way the Mysterio episode turned out. The director on it was Jennifer Coyle and she brought in a lot of her own cool ideas. I'm always trying to keep in mind that some viewers will know a lot about the Spider-Man universe while some won't know all that much about it. So it's a constant struggle to try to please both factions. The goal with this Mysterio episode was to initially play him more as a master of the dark arts but also have it all make sense about his magic when the viewers find out who he really is. I hope I'm not being too vague but I don't want to give too much away in case some readers haven't seen the episode yet."

"Destructive Testing"- This episode introduces Kraven the Hunter to the animated series. We recently spoke with Director Kevin Altieri (Batman: The Animated Series) regarding this episode and the process of bringing this new hunter to life: "One of the things I liked about Spider-Man was that he is slippery. His Spider-Sense just gives him that ability to get out of the way of danger. While Kraven is shooting arrows at him he doesn’t even try to stop the arrows, he just avoids them. The writing is something that I also like about the entire series. I have to hand it to Greg because of how well he has handled the whole story arc and the whole adaptation of. He has done a great job of taking classic Spider-Man stories and updating them to the modern world and using stuff like cellphones that hadn’t existed before. He works the High School dynamics perfectly and if you read the original comics you know that that was what it was all about. It wasn’t about this guy and his supermodel girlfriend. It was about a kid in school dealing with his normal life and trying to save people and to show that you just go back to the beginning. I think that was something that we did with Batman as well…you go back and tell the Year One story."

"Reinforcement"- A brand new Sinister Six takes the stage as Spider-Man has to take on new and old foes. The last time he faced the Six he had an alien symbiote to help him out, but can he stop all of these villains on his own? And what does the mysterious Master Planner have in store for our hero? And when our hero is faced with a tough decision, who will he choose: Gwen or Liz?

"Shear Strength"- This episode is the climax of the "Master Planner" story. New Years Eve is here and the Master Planner has decided it's time to take over the world. Can our favorite wallcrawler stop the bad guy in time and save the girl? Handled by Writer Randy Jandt and Director Jen Coyle, "Shear Strength" proves to be one of the best episodes to date. With a reveal on the same level as the identity of the Big Man from season one, these two have handled our favorite characters with amazing skill.

Overall:

The Spectacular Spider-Man continues to be one of the most consistent, fun, and engaging shows on TV. Every episode exceeds all hopes and expectations that fans might have and leaves you wanting more. Currently, the second season is about to finish up its run on Disney XD, but the fans are still hoping for the continuation of these Spectacular Adventures in the form of a third season. Please make sure you tune in and watch the final second season episodes of The Spectacular Spider-Man, and support the show by telling your friends about the newest DVD releases.

ComicsOnline gives Volume 5 of the Spectacular Spider-Man 5 out of 5 amazing stories.

And thanks to our friends at Sony we have 5 copies of this title for giveaway! Be one of the first registered memebers to make a comment on this article to qualify! Winners will be notified via ComicsOnline profile messaging.

DVD Review: The Wizards of Waverly Place: Supernaturally Stylin'

Like anything found on the Disney Channel, The Wizards of Waverly Place is a series that is appropriate for all ages, but with its high degree of goofiness, this series in particular shows itself to be solidly among the masses of tween-centric shows out today in that it's actually a show that only those with patience for light unrealistic morality comedies will likely enjoy.

The Wizards of Waverly Place features the Russo family, New Yorkers of Italian and Mexican descent who own and run a sandwich shop and, oh yeah, the kids are training to be wizards. The family consists of ex-wizard dad Jerry (David DeLuise - Stargate: SG-1), overly mothering mom Theresa (Maria Canals Barrera, aka Hawkgirl from Justice League), older brother Justin (David Henrie - How I Met Your Mother), middle daughter and star of the show Alex (Selena Gomez - Horton Hears a Who!), and youngest brother Max (Jake T. Austin - Hotel For Dogs).

The Wizards of Waverly Place: Supernaturally Stylin' features four episodes:

"Credit Check"
Alex (who often reminds me of a young Michelle Rodriguez) stumbles into an internship at a mockery of a fashion magazine, finds out early how backstabby people can get in a business environment, then uses her magical powers to stop time in an attempt to stop her attempt at revenge from backfiring, while all the while proving she's no Hiro Nakamura.

"Smarty Pants"
Alex stumbles into the academic league team at her school, then cheats with magic to try to win. Of course this is Disney, so thankfully she doesn't get away with it for long.

"Beware Wolf"
Older brother Justin disobeys his father and starts dating a girl he met on the internet. In order to instill fears of contracting STDs by using MySpace or Facebook to meet dates, the writers of this episode showed how when you meet someone you don't know on WizFace, you just might contract a disease in this case it wasn't something mundane like herpes. Nope, Justin gets lycanthropy by kissing the girl he met online. How this anti-VD allegory snuck past the Disney censors I have no idea, but it was hilarious.

"Graphic Novel"
Alex has used her magical powers and created a pocket dimension within her diary where all her dreams come true: She dresses like a princess and the boy of her dreams is her knight on a dangerous motorcycle. Naturally her brothers snoop in on it and screw up Alex' fantasy utopia by bringing her arch-rival into her dreamscape and muddying up her weird world that someone went all "Filter: Artistic: Plastic Wrap" to.

Extras:

-Backstage Disney - Fashionista Presto Chango: Behind the scenes in the costume shop with the cast and costumer.

This was my first time in the world of The Wizards of Waverly Place, and while it's silly and absurd, it's also everything it promises to be: light and entertaining and cute short moral stories told by an engaging cast playing likable characters.

ComicsOnline gives The Wizards of Waverly Place: Supernaturally Stylin' 3 ½ out of 5 misused magical powers.

Get off WizFace for a minute and magic your way back to ComicsOnline.com for more DVD reviews and everything geek pop culture.

DVD Review: Transformers Animated Season Two

"More than meets the eye..."

Transformers Animated: Season Two is now available on DVD! This season the Autobots continue their search for the Allspark fragments and try to hold off the Decepticon forces. This season also bring us new faces as The Autobot Elite Guard arrives on Earth to locate the missing Allspark! Now Optimus Prime must justify his actions to his superior: Ultra Magnus. Also arriving on Earth are Sentinel Prime (an arrogant bot who disapproves of Optimus) and fan favorite character: JAZZ!

Highlights
-"The Elite Guard"- Optimus Prime has some explaining to do as his boss arrives on Earth. This episode also reveals the fate of missing Issac Sumdac! Also, more questions are raised about Sari and her relation to Issac (but she's Issac's daughter....right?)

-"Mission Accomplished"- Ultra Magnus believes that the Decepticon threat is non-existent and decides its time for the Autobots to leave the Earth. Well Starscream attacks and Prime must step in and save humanity. Also we get another classic G1 storyline as we learn Starscream is now immortal and his spark can't be destroyed!

-"Garbage In, Garbage Out"- Weird Al makes a guest appearance and provides the voice for the Animated version of another classic character: Wreck-Gar! (You might remember the original character from Transformers: The Movie).

-"Rise of the Constructicons": The Allspark gives life to some new bots: The Constructicons! (Well...two of them at least). The big question is...which side are they on?

-"A Bridge Too Close Parts 1 and 2"- Megatron's space bridge is almost complete thanks to a little help from new friends. Now the Autobots must hurry to stop Megatron! Megatron captures Bulkhead after learning from Shockwave that Bulkhead is the foremost authority on Space Bridge technology. Also we learn that another member of the Elite Guard has arrived on Earth: Blurr! We learn that Starscream has been cloning himself and uses his new force to attack the Space Bridge right as it becomes activated. In a last ditch effort to stop the bridge, the secret of the Autobot's ship is revealed. Now Omega Supreme must make the ultimate sacrifice to save his friends. And more questions are raised about Sari after she is injured in the final battle...setting the stage for SEASON 3!

Special Features
-Audio Commentary on Episodes 19 and 20

-Two Animated Shorts

-Photo Gallery

Overall
This season has many great reintroductions of classic characters. Jazz, Ultra Magnus, Wreck-Gar, Shockwave, Blurr and more. This series has done a very nice job combining the many different stories from the Transformers Universe and making a very entertaining story in the process. Although many updates have been made, the characters still feel and look as they should. If you missed out on any of the episodes from Season 2, make sure you check out this release!

ComicsOnline gives Transformers Animated: Season 2 4 out of 5 classic characters!
 

DVD Review: Transformers Energon The Ultimate Collection

Ten years have past since the events of Transformers: Armada. Optimus Prime has brokered a peace between the Autobots and Decepticons that has lasted nearly a decade. After years of peace a new factor has come into play: Energon. It is the substance that powers all Cybertronians. Now a major discovery of Energon on Earth and everyone wants some. Optimus Prime must lead the heroic Autobots to find the Energon first before the Decepticons and other unseen forces can take it by force.

Transformers: Energon The Ultimate Collection is now available on DVD. This is the first time that this series has been released in its entirety. This new series features fully CGI Transformers interacting with cartoon animated humans. This is the Second Series in what is now called the Unicron Trilogy taking place before Transformers: Cybertron.

A new feature to this season is that the Transformers now have the ability to combine (or "Superlink" as the series was titled in Japan) with each other to create a new larger Transformer. Prior to this series the only combiners we have seen have been 5-part combiners like the Constructicons or Superion. Now 2 Transformers such as Optimus Prime and Omega Supreme can combine to create a new, more powerful mode. In the first episode of the series we learn that Optimus has a new upgrade and his trailer now contains 4 smaller (non-Transforming) vehicles that will attach to him to make a Powerlink Optimus Prime (or as we at ComicsOnline like to call him: Voltron-imus Prime).

Episode Highlights
-Cybertron City- Peace has existed between the Autobots and Deceptions for years, but when a group of unknown Transformers called the Terrorcons attack Cybertron City only some wil be left standing. We also learn that a new player has entered the arena as the mysterious Alpha Q has taken refuge in the discarded head of the planet eating Transformer: UNICRON!

-Megatron Resurrected- The leader of the Decepticons is back and has a new transformation mode! Now he must reclaim his forces and use his new abilities to destroy the Autobots.

-The Legend of Rodimus- Through flashbacks we learn the epic tale of Rodimus, the heroic Autobot who lead the Autobots during some of its darkest times. We also learn that Rodimus might be still around...and ready to fight!

-Alpha Q's Identity- Learn the secrets of Alpha Q! What happened to his race and home planet? Why has he taken refuge inside Unicron?

-Unicron Perishes- Unicron is defeated but his mind lives on in a new host body: MEGATRON! What horrors will this combination unleash?

-Wishes- Megatron gets a upgrade using the newly discovered "Super Energon" and he becomes the more powerful Galvatron! Also in this episode the massive Superion joins the Autobots.

Special Features
Although this set contains all 52 episodes of the Energon Series, it is significantly lacking in special features. By lacking...I mean there aren't any.

Overall
If you watched and enjoyed Transformers: Armada then you will probably enjoy this series. It is structured very differently from other Transformers Series in the fact that the 52 episodes have been broken down into 4 story-arcs. The animation is very different from what we are accustomed to, but after a few episodes it grows on you. This season really is just a bridge between Armada and Cybertron as it doesn't have the same impact as its companion series. It does have an interesting take on some of the classic characters and updates a lot of the Generation One stories.

ComicsOnline gives Transformers: Energon 3.5 out 5 Superlinking Transformers.
 

DVD Review: Transformers- The Complete Series

"Me Grimlock say you full of cesium salami."

I grew up on Transformers and I have such fond memories of watching the show every morning before going to school. I just loved the idea of transforming robots (a reason that I also eventually loved the original Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Series as well.) Listening to Peter Cullen's deep voice coming out of Optimus Prime is one of those things that you just can't forget. Optimus was the total personification of good, while Megatron was all that was evil in the universe...it was as simple as that.

In honor of the 25th anniversary of this classic cartoon, Shout! Factory has released an amazing 16 disc DVD collection which contains ALL of the classic battles of the Autobots and Decepitons. This is the first time that all of the episodes have been put together into a single release and to make things even better, the set is in the shape of the Autobot Matrix of Leadership!

The box itself slides open to light our darkest hour (just like it did in the movie). I do have this to say about Shout! Factory, they sure pull out all the stops when it comes to putting together their box sets! This newest release includes all 98 episodes from the classic 80's TV series, now featuring restored audio and video, new bonus features, concept art, 60-page book, magnets, scripts and more! Transformers fans couldn't ask for a better set. The DVD's themselves are in 4 individual DVD cases, featuring new art of Optimus Prime, Megatron, Hot Rod, and Galvatron!

Doesn't it look awesome sitting between Masterpiece Megatron and Masterpiece Optimus Prime?

Bonus Features:
Season 1
-Triple Changers- From Toy to Comic to Screen
-Archival Hasbro Toy Commericals
-Rare PSA
-Printable "Transport to Oblivion" Script

Season 2
-The Combiner-Forming the Transformers Animated Series
-The Headmasters- Voicing the Robots in Disguise
-Rare PSAs
-Archival Hasbro Toy Commericals
-Printable Scripts "Starscream's Brigade" and "The Revenge of Bruticus"
-Original Series Writers Bible
-Concept Art

Season 3 and 4
-The Autobots, the Decepticons, and The Fans
-Into the Creation Matrix- A Conversation with Bob Budiansky
-From the files of Teletran-2
-Rare PSAs
-Concept Art
-Fan Material
-Archival Hasbro Toy Commericals

Overall
There has never been a Transformers set like this. This is perfect set for any Transformers fan or for anyone who never got to experience the show. The only complete series set that comes close to this in my mind is the recent release of the 10th Anniversary Collection of Freaks and Geeks (which was also done by Shout!). Nothing really compares to this release.

ComicsOnline gives Transformers: The Complete Series 5 out of 5 series from our childhood that still live up to expectations.

Transformers: The Complete Series is available at http://www.transformerscollectorsset.com/ .

DVD Review: Transformers: Season Two, Part One (25th Anniversary Edition)

The Transformers return for more action and adventure in the newly restored 25th Anniversary release of Transformers Season Two, Part One! This set includes many fan favorite characters such as the Dinobots, Devastator, Shockwave and more!

Episode Highlights:
"Autobot Spike"- When Spike becomes injured, the Autobots must act quickly to save his life! In order to perform a delicate operation, Spike's mind is transferred into Autobot X! Megatron tries to take further advantage of the situation and might actually succeed at turning Spike against his friends. Is it too late for Spike or can he be returned to his own body?

"Dinobot Island (Parts 1 and 2)"- The Dinobots are back, but seem to be more out of control than before. The Autobots decide to train the Dinobots at a safe location, far away from anyone they could harm. It seems they have found the perfect spot when they are able to locate an island with real dinosaurs. The Decepticons are also aware of this island and decide take its resources for their own, but their actions lead to worldwide consequences.

"Microbots"- Megatron has finally found his crashed ship on Earth! He quickly recovers an object called "The Heart of Cybertron", which will give him immense power. When it is discovered that Megatron's power comes with an explosive result, the Autobots must embark on their own version of "fantastic voyage" and shrink down to to microscopic size to fight their biggest threat!

"Megatron's Master Plan (Parts 1 and 2)"- Megatron launches a new scheme to ruin the Autobots' reputation with the humans of Earth. With the help of a human politician, Megatron might finally have gotten his way, as the Autobots are forced to leave! With the Autobots out of the way, the Decepticons are free to do as they please and Earth is now in peril. Can the Autobots return to help humanity in time?

"Desertion of the Dinobots (Parts 1 and 2)"- Don't make the Dinobots angry... you won't like them when they are angry. When all of the other Transformers become ill from a mysterious infection, their fates fall into the hands of the Dinobots, but they don't seem to care what happens to their Autobot counterparts. The Decepticons find a cure for the problem and quickly move against their foes, but the Dinobots are nowhere to be found...Who will save the day now?

Special Features:
These episodes feature restored audio and video and additional animation not included in the original broadcast.

Overall:
If you have been picking up the individual seasons of the original Transformers series, then this is a perfect release for you. Although it is lacking featurettes, it does feature greatly updated audio and video. These are some of the best episodes of the series and include some classic moments.

ComicsOnline gives Transformers: Season Two, Part One (25th Anniversary Edition) 4 out of 5 chances to see Grimlock.

DVD Review: Two and a Half Men - The Complete Sixth Season

The Complete Sixth Season of Two and a Half Men is now available on DVD!

Jake is growing up and Charlie and Alan are trying to keep up! The guys have their hands full this season since they have to deal with crazy ex-girlfriends, paying back debts, and new love interests for Jake.

Episode highlights-
"Taterhead is our Lovechild"- Charlie bumps into an old girlfriend who he hasn't seen in years, but the biggest kicker is that she has a son who looks remarkably like Charlie! Could Charlie have an illegitimate son? Charlie tries to do the right thing with his ex but ends up getting burned.

"Pie Hole Herb"- Charlie borrows some money from Alan, but takes a bit longer than Alan would like in repaying his debts. The two men get into a feud over the money and Alan ends up getting kick out of the beachhouse. This is one of my favorite episodes of the series. Don't miss this one.

"Pinocchio's Mouth"- Charlie's new relationship is taking him to places that he hasn't gone before! Chelsea wants him to spend the night at her house, but Charlie has some issues when he is far away from him his regular routine. Can he figure out how to make Chelsea happy and find a way to get comfortable?

"The Devil's Lube"- Emilio Estavez makes a cameo as Charlie's old friend/partner in crime. The two are out on the patio and reminiscing and then Charlie's friend dies. Charlie freaks out realizing the two men led the same life and is concerned for the future. Charlie decides to settle down and figure out a new plan for his life and turns to the one person who has always been there for him, ROSE!

"I Think I Offended You Don"- Judith is pregnant and Alan is convinced that the baby is his. Alan shows up at Judith's and helps Herb paint the baby's room and shows too much of a vested interest.

"Above Exalted Cyclops"- Cheslea tries to hook up Alan with one of her friends, but that friend turns out to be an old friend...Rose!

Special Features-
-Two and a Half Men: Growing Up Harper- The Evolution of Jake Harper and the Talented Young Actor who Portrays Him, Angus T. Jones
-The Women of Two and a Half Men- Let's Hear from the Girls
-Gag Reel

Overall-
I honestly cannot get enough of this show. It's just one of those shows that is really enjoyable to watch. Angus T. Jones really steps up this season and we get to see a very nice growth in character for Jake. Charlie Sheen and Jon Cryer are on their game for the entire season and provide some great comedic moments.

ComicsOnline gives Two and a Half Men - The Complete Sixth Season- 4 out of 5 fun cameos!

DVD Review: Two and a Half Men- The Complete Seventh Season

Charlie, Alan, and Jake return for Two and a Half Men: The Complete Seventh Season, which is now available on DVD!

Last season Charlie met Chelsea, the woman of his dreams, and decides to pop the big question. Now with his marriage impending, Charlie must remain on good behavior to keep Chelsea happy. Alan also has a lot to deal with this season when he considers the possibility that his ex-wife's new child might actually be his. Jake begins to step into adulthood and gets his learners permit and a new girlfriend!

Episode Highlights:
"818-jklpuzo"- Charlie bumps into his ex-fiance Mia, who asks him for help with recording a music demo. Charlie hesitates about helping her because of Chelsea, but to his surprise, Chelsea actually encourages Charlie to help Mia to prove that he doesn't have any lingering feelings. Meanwhile, Alan's new girlfriend Melissa seems to have moved into the apartment, but Alan denies this fact to Charlie adamantly.

"For the Sake of the Child"- Charlie and Alan accidentally embarrass Jake in front of his friends, causing Jake to decide to move to Judith's house permanently. Now the guys must find a way to convince Jake to return to Charlie's or they will suffer the wrath of Judith.

"Give Me Your Thumb"- When Chelsea's back begins hurting, Alan makes the suggestion that she consider getting breast reduction surgery. This idea makes Charlie very unhappy and kicks Alan out of his house.

"Gorp. Fnark. Schmegle."- Battlestar Galactica's Tricia Helfer guest stars as Chelsea's old college roommate Gail. Chelsea invites Gail to come stay at Charlie's house while she is going through a messy breakup. Charlie becomes concerned that Chelsea might be using Gail to test his faithfulness, but hopes to convince the girls to consider having some fun together.

Special Features:
A Charlie Harper Ex Reunion: Charlie's Beautiful Ex-Girlfriends dish on his charm, his wardrobe, and his future.

Gag Reel

Overall:
This season of Two and a Half Men was an overly positive one, as we got to enjoy Charlie's struggle to maintain a meaningful relationship. Watching Jake grow into adulthood has also been extremely entertaining as Angus T. Jones has been given some hilarious teenager development moments.

ComicsOnline gives Two and a Half Men- The Complete Seventh Season 4 out of 5 shows that have awesome guest appearances by Tricia Helfer!

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DVD Review: Wolverine and the X-Men - Final Crisis Trilogy (Volume 6)

Wolverine and the X-Men has always been a hit or miss series. I like it because it feels like a spiritual successor to the early '90s cartoon, because it uses obscure characters from X-Comics like New X-Men, and because it always tries to do things in an interesting way while staying true to the spirit of the comic's original story arcs. At the same time, it feels like a lot of the characters on the show act completely out of character, as if the writers have an objective for them that doesn't fit the characters' original personalities. The Final Crisis Trilogy, the final volume collection of the Wolverine and the X-Men series, has all of the good and the bad features of the series. When everything is added up, the story arc of Volume 6 provides a fun, action-packed conclusion, that may have some pacing problems, but is otherwise well-executed.

Volume 6 consists of a three part episode ("Foresight") that is half recreation of the Hellfire Club story arc from the Dark Phoenix Saga in Uncanny X-Men, and half Magneto acting megalomaniacal on Genosha while trying to destroy all humans. Some big things happen, and a lot of the major plot threads from earlier in the series are finally tied up. "Foresight" begins with Logan tracking the recently re-kidnapped Jean Grey. As he follows the kidnapper's scent, he begins to unravel some of the secrets held by Emma Frost. Frost plays innocent, but is actually complicit in the kidnapping. As the White Queen of the Hellfire club, she is determined to extract the powerful Phoenix force that had implanted itself in Jean Grey's mind.

Meanwhile, The Scarlet Witch discovers that Magneto has started calling some of his disgraced followers back to the island of Genosha in anticipation of a new attack on America, in a ploy to start another race war. The action builds from there as the X-Men are torn between saving Jean, stopping Magneto, and preventing the humans from hunting mutants to extinction, and soon all of the elements combine into an action sequence reminiscent to the human/mutant turmoil long hinted at in the show's opening sequence. Throughout the episodes, the actions frequently cut to the future, where Charles Xavier is helping a band of mutant rebels escape from an omnipresent government determined to wipe out mutant-kind once and for all, all while he attempts to contact Wolverine to get him to prevent this horrible, dystopian future from happening.

There is a lot of stuff going on in the story, and the pacing suffers as a result. This is especially prominent early on in "Foresight," as the action cuts between vastly different scenes in an attempt to get all the balls rolling. The result is similar to a soap opera or a long running anime: the audience is asked to follow too many stories at once. At the same time, using all of these different elements does lead to a satisfying payoff, and the writers use as many characters as they need to in order to resolve the myriad loose ends established over the run of Wolverine and the X-Men.

The other character that seems off in these final episodes is Emma Frost. Frost is put into her classic role as the White Queen of the Hellfire club, but she is forced to balance that with the slightly-less-evil Emma Frost of more recent times, which is the template that the series has used for the character thus far. The balance doesn't quite hold, and the diamond-skinned character is given a soft side to let the plot proceed, which is disappointing when compared to the ice cold renditions of Emma Frost in previous stories.

The action-packed finale to Wolverine and the X-Men does an excellent job of wrapping up the season, and is sure to please fans of the series. The pacing drags a bit, and some of the characters feel weak compared to previous iterations, but for the most part, it provides some of the best animated X-Men action in years, and fans of previous X-Men series shouldn't hesitate to check out Wolverine and the X-Men whenever they can.

ComicsOnline gives Wolverine and the X-Men: Final Crisis Trilogy four out of five Phoenix-possessed Stepford Cuckoos.

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DVD Review: Wolverine and the X-Men - Vol. 5: Revelation

Continuing the ongoing saga of the X-Men and their fight against the possible future, Wolverine and the X-Men - Vol. 5: Revelation continues to pull out all the stops. It delivers one of the most action and cameo packed X-Men stories to date continuing to build up to its epic conclusion. Will Logan and the crew finally be able to free Professor Xavier from his nightmare of a post apocalyptic world where all of mankind has been decimated while avoiding Senator Kelly and the MRDs who's made it their mission to hunt down and lock up all mutants? This volume comprised of 5 episodes really turns up the heat and brings in several fan favorite characters such as Phoenix, Apocalypse. and Archangel.


 

Episodes:
"Backlash" -
It turns out Mutants are now being rounded up by the masses by Senator Kelly's MRDs and its finally time for the X-Men to take a stand against this. Angel decides to disobey his father and attack Master Mold along with the rest of the team and their new allies, The Brotherhood in a attempt to change the future. The attack doesn't exactly go according to plan when Master Mold still manages to escape and adapts itself for future encounters.

"Guardian Angel" -
Angel finally has had enough of having to play nice in order to please his father and decides to break free after a confrontation between them. The MRD attack Angel upon his escape damaging his wings and having his father order them to be cut off. Mr. Sinister offers Angel a deal in exchange for new (metal!) wings. Under Mr. Sinister's guidance, Angel proceeds to hunt down those who have kept him from soaring for years.

"Breakdown" -
Cyclops falls during an important battle with longtime foe, the Juggernaut due to still being distracted over the loss of the still MIA Jean Grey. In an attempt to try and become a leader again Emma Frost assists Cyclops in erasing all of his past memories of Jean going through each memory one by one. In the process of doing so, it is revealed who the true attack on the mansion was caused by: None other than The Phoenix possessing Jean!

"Rover" -
In the future, the group of X-Men led by Charles Xavier have managed to capture and reprogram one of the many Sentinels. Marrow who has become attached to the giant robot, giving him the nickname Rover sees the machine as an actual being while the rest of the team sees him more of a tool. After finding out the true cause of the attack on the mansion and coming to the conclusion that The Phoenix may have been responsible for the future to end up the way it did, Charles decides his group of X-Men in the future need to attack Master Mold's base to gain the intel on what happened all those years ago. In order to get into the base, the team decides they will have to send in Rover who will most likely be destroyed in the attack which Marrow is opposed to.

"Aces and Eights" -
Senator Kelly is tired of all the waiting for Magneto to make his first move so the good Senator hires the rouge thief Gambit to steal Magneto's helmet to provoke an attack. Gambit uses Magneto's daughter to get close and try to steal the helmet as well as blowing up Genosha's power supply thus leaving the island crippled. In the end Gambit fails at stealing the helmet and the X-Men meet with both Senator Kelly and Magneto to explain what will happen in the future if they attack each other making them declare a truce.

"Shades of Grey" -
Jean's location is found out when she wakes up in a hospital and starts using her powers. The X-Men go to retrieve her while Archangel under orders from Mr. Sinister also locates and tries to capture her along with Cyclops in order to create the perfect mutant by collecting their DNA. They are rescued by the rest of the X-Men but not before Sinister is able to escape with the extracted DNA from Scott and Jean whom he delivers to his boss who is revealed to be Apocalypse.

Special Features:
-Audio Commentary with Craig Kyle, Greg Johnson and Chris Yost
-Trailer Gallery
-5.1 Dolby Digital Audio

Overall:
Once again this series has shown that it can take multiple storylines from all over the X-Men's history and combine them all seamlessly into one huge overarching story that stays true to its comic book origins and to the 90's animated series which this series is highly influenced by. The ongoing storyline has great pacing and while the show is called Wolverine and the X-Men, a good time is spent on developing every character and giving them their moment to shine. It's also quite notable just how many random cameos from across the Marvel-verse they manage to throw in and have them all work. The series has continued to stay fresh and exciting thanks to the writing talents of Chris Yost and Craig Kyle who really do show that they know their X-Men and Marvel lore and what fans want from an X-Men series.

ComicsOnline.com gives Wolverine and the X-Men - Volume 5: Revelations- 5 timeless X-Men storylines out of 5.

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DVD Review: Wolverine and the X-Men Volume 2: Deadly Enemies

Wolverine and the X-Men are back for more adventures in Volume 2: Deadly Enemies, now available on DVD. This set includes 5 episodes from Season 1. Following the events of the Heroes Return Trilogy (Volume 1), Wolverine has been slowly trying to get the band back together and trying to find ways to stop the dystopian future that Professor Xavier has warned them about.

Episodes:

Overflow
Professor Xavier contacts Wolverine from the future and warns that Africa will soon be destroyed. Wolverine travels to Africa only to find that Storm has been possessed by the Shadow King! Can he stop his former teammate before she destroys her own country?

Thieves' Gambit
This episode opens with Magma being hunted down by the MRD. Wolverine is able to get to her first and is able to help her control her abilities using a collar that Forge designed. Dr. Zane from the MRD hires the legendary thief known as Gambit to steal the collar from the X-Men so they can mass produce it to control mutants. Wolverine and Gambit end up fighting and Wolverine is able to bribe Gambit to help him stop the MRD.

X-Calibre
Nightcrawler and a handful of other mutants board a ship headed towards Genosha and finds themselves in trouble. Sprial and the Reavers attack the ship, searching for mutants to participate in Mojo's reality series. This episode features tons of cameos from the X-Men Universe, including: Sammy the Fishboy, Dazzler, Pixie and more. Nightcrawler and the gang of mutants are able to stop Spiral and send her packing back to the Mojoverse. Even though the X-Men show up to help, Nightcrawler decides to stay with the boat and ensure that these mutants make it to Genosha safely.

Wolverine vs the Hulk
This episode is a direct sequel to "Hulk Vs", and once again Nick Fury asks Wolverine for help in dealing with the Hulk "problem". Wolverine and the Hulk must face off against the mystical creature known as a Wendigo.

Time Bomb
Professor Xavier warns the X-Men of an impending disaster that will destroy Genosha! Nitro, a mutant with explosive capabilities, will be used to destroy Genosha and start the war between humanity and mutants. This episode features an apperance by Psylocke!

Special Featur