My So-Called Life - The Complete Series

Finally, My So-Called Life has the DVD set release it deserves. Everything about it is first-rate, starting with the packaging, which is a beautiful hardcover book design and includes a 37-page booklet with comments from creator Winnie Holzmann, Joss Whedon (Buffy), and Jeneane Garofalo, along with a history of the show and an episode guide. The picture quality of the disks is top-rate. And the extras are plentiful -- commentary tracks by cast and crew on 6 of the 19 episodes; retrospective interviews with all major members of the cast other than Jared Leto (his absence being the only disappointment of the set); analyses of the characters, the music, the show's history; and highlights from the 1995 panel from the Museum of Television and Radio.

And the show itself? If you've seen it before, there's little else to say, except that it still stands up perfectly well 13 years later, even if the fashion no longer looks current. If you haven't seen it, I envy your ability to discover it for the first time. Though centered on 15-year-old Angela Chase, the show also gives ample time to her 40-year-old parents; friends Rickie (the first gay teen character on network television), Rayanne, Brian, and Sharon; and object of obsession Jordan Catalano, making the program compelling and relevant to a wide audience. It's by turns hilarious, heart-breaking, and thought-provoking. It's one of the best television programs ever.

I already own a set from the first release and spend a good load of money getting it. Even after that purchase, I'd buy it again. Its worth owning about 3 copies of this series. It hits every chord, touching on each individual family member and friend portrayed brilliantly by an exceptional cast. Clair Danes is absolutely amazing in her role and I have always appreciated the realness of each episode concept and dialogue. BUY. IT!