Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I agree that the selection of episodes in the gift pack (as is also true of the regular DVD releases of TZ episodes) represents more of a random sampling than an only-the-best selection. Nonetheless, I'm quite pleased with the overall quality of the included episodes. While segments like "Probe 7--Over and Out" are mediocre at best, the collection still includes classics like "Time Enough at Last", "A Game of Pool" (with terrific performances from Jack Klugman and Jonathan Winters), and "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet." Of the 19 episodes, I find 15 of them to be well worth owning--not a bad ratio. I'm also impressed with the Rod Serling documentary included in this set. Rather than an insipid fluff piece about how wonderful TZ is (which is unfortunately the more common type of "documentary feature" usually included in DVD products), this is a satisfyingly in-depth look at Rod Serling's entire career which aired on PBS as part of the "American Masters" series. A nice bonus.
I do agree that the packaging is sub-par. No liner notes, and all discs are crammed into 2-CD jewel boxes. This is unimpressive for an "anniversary tribute" set. These drawbacks are purely cosmetic, though, and do not detract from my enjoyment of the set.
The transfer is generally well executed, capturing the contrast and detail of the often striking black-and-white cinematography. At its best, TZ is like classic film noir distilled into 24-minute doses. The two episodes originally shot on videotape instead of film for budgetary reasons ("Night of the Meek" and "Long Distance Call") fare less well, but this is to be expected.
So: Overall, a good sampling of episodes with a satisfying bonus documentary. I thoroughly enjoy it.
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