ZORRO – The Complete First Season (1957-1958) – Walt Disney Treasures (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

October 31, 2009 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

One of the highest rated TV series in America gets released on DVD over 50 years later. A classic television series that many people loved to watch, many kids tried to be but for the most part, a rare television shows that was as also, culturally important in the history of entertainment in America. Zorro is remastered and receives the prestigious (and limited) Walt Disney Treasures treatment. Enjoyable, action-packed and fun… over 50-years-later, “Zorro” is still highly entertaining and cool! Definitely recommended!

TITLE: ZORRO – The Complete First Season (1957-1958) – Walt Disney Treasures

DURATION: (Episodes 1-39) 18 hours and 41 minutes

DVD INFORMATION: Dolby Digital, B&W, Digitall Mastered, Subtitles: English SDH

COMPANY: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment

RELEASED: November 3, 2009

Produced by Bill Anderson

Music by William Lava

Cinematography by Gordon Avil

Editing by Roy V. Livingston, Cotton Warburton, Hugh Chaloupka, Edward Samson and Al Teeter

Art and Production Design by Marvin Aubrey Davis

Costume Design by Chuck Keehne

Make Up by Pat McNailey

Production Management by Roy Wade

Starring:

Guy Williams as Don Diego de la Vega

Gene Sheldon as Bernardo

Henry Calvin as Sgt. Demetrio Lopez Garcia

Don Diamond as Corp. Reyes

George J. Lewis and Don Alejandro de la Vega

Britt Lomond as Capitan Monastario

Vinton Hayworth as Magistrado Carlos Galindo

Jolene Brand as Anna Maria Verdugo

Jan Arvan as Nacho Torres

Suzanne Lloyd as Raquel Toledano

Romney Brent as Padre Felipe

Jan Arvan as Nacho Torres

Nestor Paiva as Innkeeper

Walt Disney Home Entertainment is proud to release Zorro, one of the most popular television shows in history on DVD November 3, 2009. The latest addition to the celebrated Walt Disney Treasures, Zorro, makes its fully restored black & white DVD debut. All 78 episodes of the timeless classic will be included on two new six-disc sets–making up the ninth installment of the popular Walt Disney Treasures, and for the first time, will be housed in collectible black, numbered unique tin cases.

From 1957 to 1959, Disney’s Zorro was one of the most popular series on television starring Guy Williams, Henry Calvin, and Gene Sheldon. The show helped transform the literary character Don Diego
de la Vega into the ultimate iconic, beloved swashbuckling masked hero of the time. The adventures of Zorro and his trusty steed Tornado have captivated audiences since their inception, gaining new
audiences when it was re-aired on the Disney Channel in 1983 and re-colorizing the episodes in the 1990s. After the series conclusion, the Zorro adventures lived on from 1960 to 1961 on Walt Disney’s
Wonderful World of Color in the form of a four-episode anthology series of hour-long Zorro specials, all of which are also included in Walt Disney Treasures Wave IX.

With Walt Disney’s “Zorro” popular television series ending in 1959 after 78-episodes, for its 50th year Anniversary, Walt Disney is giving the classic action/comedy series special treatment with the “Walt Disney Treasures” release of “ZORRO – The Complete First Season (1957-1958) and “ZORRO – The Complete Second Season (1958-1959).

For the first season, this marks the ninth Walt Disney Treasures release in which a limited amount of DVD copies were printed (in this case – 30,000 were printed) and where the majority of the “Walt Disney Treasures” releases were animated releases, these two Zorro releases will be the first to receive an all-black tin case release.

This release contains the 39 episodes from the first season on five DVD discs and each episode has been digitally remastered. Also, included are “Zoro: El Bandido – Part 1″ which aired in Oct. 30, 1960 on Walt’s anthology TV series “Walt Disney Presents”, “Zoro: Adios El Cuchillo – Part 2″ which aired on Nov. 6, 1960 on “Walt Disney Presents”, an excerpt from “The Fourth Anniversary Show” which aired on Sept. 11, 1957 and “The Life and Legend of Zorro”. Included with each release is a certificate of authenticity signed by Roy E. Disney and Leonard Maltin (who personally selected the rare offerings in this set), a publicity still of Guy Williams (who plays the character Don Diego aka “Zorro”), a Zorro pin (featuring dual swords, the black mask and the words Zorro) and a booklet with episode listings for the first season and more.

“Zorro” was the first major series that film man Walt Disney was very enthusiastic about. Ratings were terrific with the first season earning over 35% and the second season earning over 40% in the ratings which is phenomenal but the only reason why the series was pulled off the air was because Disney was pursuing color and ABC wasn’t and thus, both “Zorro” and “The Mickey Mouse Club” were pulled off the air.

The story of Zorro first appeared back in 1920 as part of a silent film starring Douglas Fairbanks. For the next 35 years, there would be several “Zorro” related films that were released. But it was in Sept. 11, 1957 when Walt Disney introduced the character to audiences through the 4th Anniversary show of Walt Disney Presents and four weeks later, Zorro would debut on ABC on Oct. 10th.

“Zorro” takes place during the time of Spanish occupation of California (pre-1820 before Mexico won independence for California and took control of the state). Where members of the Spanish colonial government are oppressing the Mexicans and Indians who occupy the land. Meanwhile, Don Diego de la Vega (played by Guy Williams, “Lost In Space”, “Captain Sinbad”, “Bonanza”), a scholar who trained in Spain makes his return to California along with his mute sidekick Bernardo (played by Gene Sheldon) and to see how people are being oppressed by Capitan Monastario (played by Britt Lomond, “The Legend of Wyatt Earp”).

Capitan Monastario dreams of being a major leader in Spain but to do that, he tries to rule his region with an iron fist. Joined by the hilarious, clumsy and portly Corp. Reyes (played by Don Diamond, “F Troop”, “The Flying Nun”, “Rockford Files”), Monastario and his men try to capture those who speak out against him.

Fearing how things have gotten worse in California, in order to fight against Monastario and his men, Don Diego dons a black outfit and mask and goes by a mysterious hero named as “Zorro”.

Throughout the series, we watch as Zorro defies the rule of various leaders by helping the people who have been oppressed and not willing to challenge them in a duel. But as Zorro tries to save lives, those of the Spanish military do what they can to capture the town’s vigilante.

The following episodes are included in “Zorro – The Complete First Season (1957-1958): The following is the list of episodes per disc and a brief spoilerless summary.

DISC 1:

EPISODE 1 – Presenting Senior Zorro – Don Diego de la Vega discovers the corrupted state of Los Angeles and becomes the hero Zorro.
EPISODE 2 – Zorro’s Secret Passage – Zorro introduces Bernardo his secret passage where he and his black horse can escape unnoticed. Meanwhile, a friend of Don is accused by the Capitan of being Zorro.
EPISODE 3 – Zorrro Rides to the Mission – The Capitan goes after a Nacho Torres who has taken refuge at the Mission San Gabriel, if he doesn’t come out, the working Indians will be whipped.
EPISODE 4 – The Ghost of the Mission – With the Capitan and his soldiers trying to take control at the Mission San Gabriel, Don tells Garcia stories of a ghost at the mission to create a scare.
EPISODE 5 – Zoro’s Romance – With the Capitan going after Nacho in his home, Capitan tries to use his influence to get close to Nacho’s daughter.
EPISODE 6 – Zorro Saves a Friend – The Capitan places Nacho’s wife and daughter in jail in order to bring Nacho back and turn himself in.
EPISODE 7 – Monastario Sets a Trap – With Dons’ father in danger, Zorro comes to the rescue.

DISC 2:

EPISODE 8 – Zorro’s Ride Into Terror – Capitan takes over the De la Vega Hacienda in order to capture the wounded Alejandro.
EPISODE 9 – A Fair Trial – Nacho Torres and Alejandro are to be tried in court.
EPISODE 10 – Garcia’s Secret Mission- Capitan pretends to fire Garcia who tries to make it seem as if he hates the Capitan in order to trap Zorro.
EPISODE 11 – Double Trouble For Zorro – Zorro takes on a master swordsman posing as Zorro.
EPISODE 12 – Zorro, Luckiest Swordsman Alive – When the master swordsman posing as Zorro murders an innocent, people start to think Zorro may be a bad guy.
EPISODE 13 – The Fall of Monastario - Capitan Monastario believes Don Diego is Zorro and imprisons him.
EPISODE 14 – Shadow of Doubt – With a new Commander on his way to Los Angeles, a man named Esteban Rojas comes to town to cause some trouble. And a new evil has arrived in town with their mark of an eagle feather left on its victim.
EPISODE 15 – Garcia Stands Accused – Garcia is double crossed and is to be executed, can Zorro save him in time.

DISC 3:

EPISODE 16 – Slaves of the Eagle - Garcia poses as Zorro…why?
EPISODE 17 – Sweet Face of Danger – Zorro risks his life to save a woman.
EPISODE 18 – Zorro Fights His Father – Zorro is marked by death by his own father.
EPISODE 19 – Death Stacks The Deck – Another victim by the Eagle’s feather and Zorro takes part in a gamble for his life.
EPISODE 20 – Agent of the Eagle – An imposter poses as the new Commandante and takes his wraith on the rancheros and extorts money from people for the Eagle.
EPISODE 21 – Zorro Springs A Trap – Zorro’s horse Tornado has been captured by the impostor Commandante and is used as a trap to capture Zorro.
EPISODE 22 – The Unmasking of Zorro – The new Commandante tries to take advantage of Rosarita and Zorro comes to the rescue. But while a fight ensues, Zorro is unmasked.
EPISODE 23 – The Secret of the Sierra – Zorro defends a gold mine from the agents of the Eagle.

DISC 4:

EPISODE 24 – The New Commandante – Galindo tries to use the new Commandante and Zorro and pit them against each other.
EPISODE 25 – The Fox and the Coyote – A secret gunship comes to the area. Meanwhile, Zorro takes on the forces of the Eagle.
EPISODE 26 – Adios, Senior Magistrado – It is revealed that the Magistrado is responsible for the trouble in the area.
EPISODE 27 – The Eagle’s Brood – The Eagle’s identity is revealed.
EPISODE 28 – Zorro By Proxy – The Commandante’s wife sets her plan to capture Zorro.
EPISODE 29 – Quintana Makes a Choice – The Commandante’s wife confronts Zorro.
EPISODE 30 – Zorro Lights A Fuse – Zorro is being held in a room with the Commandante’s wife. Will he surrender?
EPISODE 31 – The Man With the Whip – A Master with a whip draws the ire of Zorro.

DISC 5:

EPISODE 32 – Cross of the Andes – Bernardo is captured and Zorro must save him.
EPISODE 33 – The Deadly Bolas – Bernardo poses as Zorro…why?
EPISODE 34 – The Well of Death – Garcia squares off against an enemy, while a boy falls in a well. Who will save them?
EPISODE 35 – The Tightening Noose – The Eagle works on his plan to eliminate Zorro.
EPISODE 36 – The Sergeant Regrets – The agents of the eagle are sent to go after Zorro.
EPISODE 37 – The Eagle Leaves the Nest – Zorro goes after the Eagle.
EPISODE 38 – Bernardo Faces Death – Bernardo gets caught in a death trap. Can Zorro save him?
EPISODE 39 – The Eagle’s Flight – The Eagle strikes after the de la Vega family. Zorro and Eagle come across each other’s path once again.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“ZORRO – The Complete First Season (1957-1958) – Walt Disney Treasures” is featured in B&W and has been Digitally Remastered. The series looks great for a television series that is over 50 years old. For the most part, the blacks are nice and deep and grays are well-done. There is a fine layer of grain and occasional dirt can be seen but for the most part, it is limited and I don’t see any major banding or compression although the opening theme is a bit grainy. But for the most part, the episodes look great.

As for the audio, the series is presented in Dolby Digital. The series is front channel driven and dialogue and music is clear. For my preference, I watched the series with my receive set with stereo on all channels.

Subtitles are featured in English SDH.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“ZORRO – The Complete First Season (1957-1958) – Walt Disney Treasures” features an exclusive introduction by film historian Leonard Maltin on Disc 1. On Disc 6, the following special features are included:

ZORRO: EL BANDIDO (Original Air Date: October 30, 1960) – (51:16) Due to the series being pulled off ABC (due to disagreements of Disney pursuing color and ABC wanting to stay with B&W), the series made its return via a two-part one hour special. The following is the first special.
ZORRO: ADIOS EL CUCHILLO (Original Air Date: November 6, 1960) - (49:00) Due to the series being pulled off ABC (due to disagreements of Disney pursuing color and ABC wanting to stay with B&W), the series made its return via a two-part one hour special. The following is the second special.
THE LIFE AND LEGEND OF ZORRO - (12:26) The history of Zorro and how popular the television series was for ABC but also an explanation of why a top rated series would be pulled off the air.
EXCERPT FROM “THE FOURTH ANNIVERSARY SHOW” (Original Air Date: September 11, 1957) – (3:17) The Mouseketeers talk to Walt Disney about Zorro and Walt promotes the new “Zorro” series.

“Zorro” is an entertaining and classic hero-based series. What made the series so exciting is that Walt Disney was behind the project and that the series was given the opportunity to have a higher production value. So, you get that feel of an authentic old California during Spanish dominance. The stories are light-hearted, fun, humorous but also very clever. The high production values of the series were well-captured as evident in the set, production and costume design. As well, as the music which helps emphasize the comedic or action moments in the series.

Although I was familiar with “Zorro” through the films, I have never seen any of the television episodes. So, to finally watch them after hearing so much about Guy Williams stellar performance as the swashbuckling hero, I can see why many people enjoyed this series.

I can see how much Disney believed in this series and also spending money necessary to make sure that old California was presented well through the production design, the costumes and also the dialect. I actually thought that a lot of the people on the show were Latino but later finding out that Guy Williams (Don Diego/Zorro) was Italian, Gene Sheldon (Bernard) and Henry Calvin (who played Sergeant Garcia) were Americans and Don Diamond (Corp. Reyes) was Russian. But the series was also instrumental in hiring many Latino to have roles in the film, not only for this season but for the next.

Don Diego is the classic hero/vigilante that was created way before Bruce Wayne/Batman and he was a Robin Hood of sorts. Taking down corruption and even helping out the poor. He was a hero that many people identified with at the time and have heard from adults who remember those years when they would dress up as Zorro because they idolized him. Granted, there are man portrayals of Don Diego in film and books but Disney was able to capture that flair of coolness with Guy Williams as the hero and for the most part, he is a hero that truly rocks! It’s been over 50 years since the series debuted on television and watching it, I can see why people enjoyed the series. It’s a well-done, enjoyable and highly entertaining series that captures that sense of adventure, action and tuning in for each episode watching Zorro take on those who would oppress the people, meeting the beautiful women but at the same time, remaining a gentleman. I’ll go even further to say that the show also had cultural impact.

“Zorro – The Complete First Season” was quite exciting as the first arc on Capitan Monastario was witty and humorous but right after episode 13, it was interesting to see how the series would become a bit more serious as we saw the villainy of Senor Magistrado and also the Eagle starting to take place and people were actually getting killed. But it worked out in the ratings because people were thrilled by the action-paced series while still retaining the humor.

Overall, if you were a fan of “Zorro” or are interested in classic television series, this series is quite fun to watch and I watched it alongside my six-year-old who was also entertained by the series. The set as part of the Walt Disney Treasures line was pretty cool, especially the black tin case and the certificate of authenticity noting the limited production of the series. But as a person who does watch classics, it’s great to see Walt Disney release one of the highest rated television shows of all time on DVD. Definitely recommended!

Legend of the Seeker: The Complete First Season (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

October 12, 2009 by Dennis Amith · 1 Comment

“Every decade, syndicated television has its rare share of gems that truly shine on television. In the 80s, there was ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’, in the 90s there was ‘Xena: Warrior Princess’ and now, I have to say that ‘Legend of the Seeker’ must be put on that list. A television series that is well-cast, well-written and awesome costume and set design. It’s hard to believe that this series is not shown throughout the USA but for those who have been curious about the series and have heard the rave reviews, this is one series that is truly fantastic. ‘Legend of the Seeker: The Complete First Season’ is highly recommended!”

TITLE: Legend of the Seeker: The Complete First Season

DURATION: 22 Episodes (950 Minutes)

DVD INFORMATION: Color, Digitally Mastered, Widescreen (1:78:1) – Enhanced for 16×9 Televisions, Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, English SDH, French and Spanish Subtitles

RATED: TV 14 LSV

COMPANY: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment

RELEASE DATE: October 13, 2009

Directed by Mark Beesley, Michael Hurst, Jonathan Brough, Charlie Haskell, Garth Maxwell

Written by Terry Goodkind, Chad Fiveash, James Patrick Stoteraux, Kenneth Biller, Mike Sussman, Arika Lisanne Mittman, Stephen Tolkin, Nicki Paluga, Erin Maher, Kay Reindi

Executive Producer: Kenneth Biller, Joshua Donen, Ned Nalle, Robert G. Tapert, Sam Raimi

Co-Executive Producer: Stephen Tolkin, Barry M. Schkolnick

Producer: David Roessel

Supervising Producer: Chad Fiveash, Mike Sussman, James Patrick Stoteraux

Original Music by Joseph LoDuca

Cinematography by Aaron Morton, Kevin Riley

Set Decoration: Megan Vertelle

Costume Design: Jane Holland

Starring:

Craig Horner as Richard Cypher

Bridget Regan as Kahlan Amnell

Bruce Spence as Zeddicus Zu’l Zorander

Craig Parker as Darken Rahl

Kevin J. Wilson as General Egremont

Tabrett Bethell as Cara

Jay Lagaia as Chase

David de Lautor as Michael Cypher

Ben Fransham as Gar

Renato Bartolomei as Demmin Nass

Danielle Cormack as Shota

Jeffrey Thomas as George Cypher

Tania Nolan as Dennee Amnell

Jessica Marais as Denna

Jennifer Rucker as Emma Brandstone

Catherine Stephen as Laura Brandstone

Shot with state-of-the-art visual effects and with the exotic and rugged New Zealand landscape as its backdrop, Legend of the Seeker: The Complete First Season chronicles the extraordinary transformation of woodsman Richard Cypher into The Seeker, a magical leader who joins with a beautiful and mysterious woman, Kahlan Amnell, on an epic journey to stop the bloodthirsty, sinister tyrant Darken Rahl from conquering all mankind.

In the province known as Westland, a wizard reveals to ordinary woodsman Richard Cypher the truth: that he is a child of prophecy, the first true Seeker the world has known in a thousand years, destined to wield the powerful Sword of Truth and defeat the evil tyrant Darken Rahlan.

In 1994, Terry Goodkind would embark on the beginning of his novels known as “The Sword of Truth”. With over 25 million copies of his books sold worldwide, many enjoyed the story of the adventures of three individuals: Richard Cypher, Kahland Amnell and Zeddicus Zu’l Zorander on their quest to end the tyranny of their work caused by Darken Rahl.

14 years and eleven novels later, plans for a syndicated television series loosely based on the books would become reality and would include the name of Executive Producer Sam Raimi (“Spider-Man” and “Evil Dead” films), Robert Tapert (“Xena: Warrior Princess”), Joshua Donen (“Underneath”, “The Quick and the Dead”), Josh Shiban (“The X-Files”, “Enterprise”), Kenneth Biller (“Six Degrees”, “Smallville”, “Dark Angel, “Star Trek: Voyager”) and co-executive produced by Stephen Tolkin (“Summerland”).

Because TV syndication requires a story for each episode, there is only so much that could be attributed to the book in 40-45 minutes of television. So, creatively there are differences from the television show and the book and thus the episodes are loosely based on the series.

The story of “Legend of Seeker” takes place in three main provinces: Westland, The Midlands and D’Hara. The Westlands is separated from the Midlands due to a magical boundary in order to prevent magic from entering the Westland. In D’Hara, the evil Darken Rahl uses his black magic to cause fear within his people and has amassed a great army but now he wants more power and wants to expand his domination into the midlands. Darken Rahl has sent his men after two Confessors who have stolen a book.

During these dark times, one can hope that an long-old tale of a prophecy comes true. Those who are familiar with the prophecy hope that one day, a person known as the Seeker will eliminate the tyranny of D’Hara and free those who have lived under oppression and tyranny due to Darken Rahl’s leadership. But with no Seeker having appeared, many feel that the prophecy is just a myth.

For Darken Rahl, he feels known one can stop him because he eliminated all the first born sons in a village where the Seeker was to be born. So, for over two decades, he has lived comfortable…that is until now.

When two Confessors (a group of women who have magical powers who oversee the welfare of the people in the Midlands) try to escape Darken Rahl’s army, they escape from D’Hara into the Midlands where they go and search for a wizard named Zeddicus “Zedd” Zu’l Zorander who is supposed to be training the Seeker.

One of the Confessors named Khalan Amnell was able to successfully make it through the boundary but was still chased by a few men of Darken Rahl’s army. As she was surrounded by the men, a young man named Richard Cypher manages to save her in the process. While Khalan leaves Richard to find Zed and the Seeker, the two are then encountered by Richard in which it is revealed that Richard is in fact the Seeker.

Throughout the first season of the series, we get to see Richard, Khalan and Zedd go through village to village in order to escape from Darken Rahl but to also fight against those who are oppressed by him and let people know that the prophecy of the Seeker is true. Along the way, the three help people in need and help to rid of Darken Rahl’s control in those villages.

But as the three protagonists fight for the common folk, we see how powerful Darken Rahl is and the people he has working for him. But at the same time, through the courage of Richard, Khalan and Zedd, the word about the Seeker and how he stands against Darken Rahl starts to spread throughout the three provinces.

The main characters in the first season of “Legend of the Seeker” are:

Richard Cypher (played by Craig Horner, “Blue Water High”, “H20: Just Add Water” and “Monarch Cove”) – Richard is learning to be the Seeker. Throughout his adventure, he learns a lot about himself and the people in the land and wanting to help them. He’s a kind-hearted man who will fight evil. He is attracted to the Confessor Kahlan and is the main protagonist of the series.

Kahlan Amnell (played by Bridget Regan, “The Black Donnellys”) - A Confessor who’s mission is to protect the Seeker. A Confessor can help those who confess and inside, they know the truth. When she touches a person, she can control them by making them confess and briefly taking over their body and making them do whatever she wants. She has pride in her work as a Confessor and is kind-hearted but she’s also developing feelings towards Richard, which she knows that as a Confessor, she is unable to love someone else or else she will end up stripping out his soul. So, she tries her best to keep her emotions in check, no matter how difficult it may be for her.

Zeddicus Zu’l Zorander (played by Bruce Spense, “Bullpit!”, “Star Wars: Episode III: Revenge of the Sith”) – The powerful wizard who is a member of the First Order that is still alive. He has not trained the Seeker but now, knowing his duty is to protect and train him, he is willing to sacrifice his life in order to make sure The Seeker defeats Darken Rahl.

Recurring Characters in the first season of “Legend of the Seeker”:

Darken Rahl (Played by Craig Parker, “Underworld: Rise of the Lycans”, “Power Rangers Ninja Storm”, “Diplomatic Immunity”) – The main antagonist of the series. A ruthless tyrant who rules D’Hara with an iron fist and now wants to rule the Midlands.

Dell “Chase” Brandstone (played by Jay Laga’aia, “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith”, “Star Wars: Episode II: Attack of the Clones”, “Xena: Warrior Princess) – The head of the Councilor’s Guards in Hartland. A good friend of Richard and the first person close to him that believes in him as a Seeker. A family man who is a warrior but also has a kind heart.

Michael Cypher (played by David de Lautour, “Power Rangers: Jungle Fury”, “What I Like About You”, “Being Eve”) – The brother of Richard who thinks Richard killed their father and has sided with bad magicians. He is also the Councilor in Hartland.

Denna (Jessica Marais, “Packed to the Rafters”) - The ruthless Mord’Sith who was the first to torture (train) Richard but learns that no matter how she hurts him, he still feels pity on her and makes her wonder how this man is so different from other men she has tortured.

Shota (Danielle Cormack, “The Cult”) – Has an unknown relationship with Zedd. A powerful sorceress that Zedd does not trust but her reasoning of wanting to assist the Seeker is not known.

Dennee Amnell (Tania Nolan, “Go Girls”, “The Hot House”) - The younger sister of Kahlan. Was thought to be dead but she may be alive.

Here is a listing of the episodes with a brief, spoiler-less summary of “Legend of the Seeker: The Complete First Season”:

DISC 1

EPISODE 1 – Prophecy – Darken Rahl sends his soldiers led by Fane to capture two Confessors who have escaped D’Hara and to get back a book. One of the confessor’s named Kahlan searches for a wizard named Zedd and the Seeker.
EPISODE 2- Destiny - Richard Cypher, Kahlan and Zedd try to fight off Fane and Darken Rahl’s soldiers who are trying to destroy the boundary.
EPISODE 3- Bounty – With a bounty on the Seeker, a map maker has created a magical map that details where the Seeker is located.
EPISODE 4 – Brennidon – Richard goes to the hometown where he was originally born and try to find out if his mother is still alive.

DISC 2

EPISODE 5 – Listener – Darken Rahl’s army are trying to bring a boy who has the power of a Listener (the last one died 700 years ago), a power that one can read a person’s thoughts. Richard, Kahlan and Zedd try to get the boy away from Darken Rahl.
EPISODE 6 – Elixir – Richard, Kahlan and Zedd visit a town where someone is peddling magic on the street and giving people the opportunity to experience magic on their own.
EPISODE 7 – Identity – The sorceress Shota sees in her visions that the Seeker will be killed in three days. So, she uses a spell by switching the bodies of Richard and a man named Griff without Richard knowing.
EPISODE 8 – Denna – The seeker is captured by the Mord’Sith, Denna. The Mord’Sith are women who are known by using “training” (torture) in order to make a man subservient and do whatever they want.

DISC 3

EPISODE 9 – Puppeteer – With Darken Rahl going after the third Box of Orden (which will allow him complete magical power) to become popular, Zedd comes up with a trick in order to get the third box before Darken Rahl gets it.
EPISODE 10 – Sacrifice – The three meet the Mother Confessor and the remaining and living Confessors. Kahlan learns that her sister may still be alive.
EPISODE 11 – Confession – Murder takes place in the city and the Kahlan’s power may have sent the wrong man to his death.
EPISODE 12 – Home – Darken Rahl uses the wizard Giller to put Richard in a dreamlike state and try to tell reveal where the third Box of Orden is located.
EPISODE 13 – Revenant – Zed, Richard and Kahlan try to hide the third Box of Orden in the tomb of the past seeker Kieran. But the spirit of Kieran seems to be alive and hiss spirit seems to be evil.

DISC 4

EPISODE 14 – Hartland – When Richard and Kahlan return to the Hartland, they realize that the whole area is now under D’Haran control.
EPISODE 15 – Conversion – Darken Rahl’s wizard Giller is experimenting on ancient magic on Rahl’s prisoners. But it appears that his experiments on Chase’s wife Emma, may have unleashed a power of the Confessor.
EPISODE 16 – Bloodline – Zedd hides the third Box of Orden and reunites with Richard and Kahlan in D’Hara. And a return of the Mord’Sith, Denna.
EPISODE 17 – Deception – Richard and Khalan return to the Midlands to aid rebels who are fighting against D’Hara.
EPISODE 18 – Mirror – Thieves plot to steal Richard’s Sword of Truth.

DISC 5

EPISODE 19 – Cursed – The sorceress Shota uses magic on King Gregor to become a beast known as Calthrop during the Sunset in order to protect his kingdom. But loses control and now becomes a threat to his own kingdom.
EPISODE 20 – Sanctuary – Richard, Kahlan and Zedd visit a library to find the only copy of the “Book of Counted Shadows” but where is it hidden?
EPISODE 21 – Fever – Darken Rahl’s army raids a village where Jenssen is living and beat her to the point that she loses her memory and brainwashes her into thinking the Seeker is evil.
EPISODE 22 – Reckoning – Richard has managed to obtain all three Boxes of Orden but what happens when he puts them together? Especially when the Mord’Sith Cara tries to interfere with Richard’s plans and takes both of them 58 years into the future where Khalan has given birth to a son who becomes the new tyrant in the future.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Legend of the Seeker: The Complete First Season” is featured in Widescreen (1:78:1) – Enhanced for 16×9 Televisions and all I can say is how wonderful this series looks. With the series filmed in New Zealand, the look and feel of this new world is so lush and vibrant, I was really amazed by its high production value, it’s costume and set design as well.

“Legend of the Seeker” is an impressive series with production that you would more than likely see on movies but to see it each week on television, let alone a syndicated televisions show (especially during today’s worldwide economic recession and the studio financial cutbacks) is amazing. All I can say, is that I hope this series gets the High Definition treatment and is released on Blu-ray because the series looks absolutely beautiful.

As for the audio, the audio is presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound and there is a good amount of action in the series, especially the clanging of the swords, Zedd’s fire blasts, the series definitely uses a good amount of sound effects during the action sequences. With that being said, the series is definitely more dialogue driven and thus, you hear mostly everything through the front and center channels. I preferred setting my receiver setting on stereo on all channels but for the most part, dialogue and also the Celtic music is clear and understandable.

Subtitles are provided in English SDH, French and Spanish.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Legend of the Seeker: The Complete First Seasons” comes with the following special features:

DISC 1:

Audio Commentary for “Prophecy” by Executive Producer Ken Biller, Co-Executive Producer Stephen Tolkin, actors Craig Parker (who plays Richard) and Bridget Regan (who plays Kahlan).

Audio Commentary for “Destiny” by Executive Producer Ken Biller, Co-Executive Producer Stephen Tolkin, actors Craig Parker (who plays Richard) and Bridget Regan (who plays Kahlan).

DISC 2:

Audio Commentary for “Denna” by actors Craig Parker (who plays Richard) and Jessica Marais (who plays Mord’Sith Denna).

DISC 3:

Audio Commentary for “Puppeteer” by actors Craig Parker (who plays Richard) and Bruce Spense (who plays Zed).

DISC 5:

Forging The Sword: Crafting a Legend – (16:23) Craig Horner takes us behind-the-scenes to the making of “Legend of the Seeker” in New Zealand. Interview with Mark Beesley (Director) who directed the pilot and how they will make this show different than other similar style of shows. And also the Executive Producers who discuss how the talent were cast and filming in New Zealand, horse training, fight choreography, set and costume design and how they would bring the fantasy world to life.
Words of Truth: A Conversation with Terry Goodkind – (13:35) An interview with Terry Goodkind, the creator of “The Sword of Truth” novels and his wife Jerri Goodkind. Terry shows us his world and what he’s passionate about. His passion for art, making violins and more. Also, how “The Sword of Truth” was created and being relentless.
Deleted Scenes -A total of eight deleted scenes: What Does Adie See?, Confessor to the Seeker?, Benedict’s Plight, Using Pain, Richard’s Training, Night Confessions & Promises, Memories Are Slippery Things and This is the Truth

Every decade, syndicated television has its rare share of gems that truly shine on television. In the 80s, there was ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’, in the 90s there was ‘Xena: Warrior Princess’ and now, I have to say that ‘Legend of the Seeker’ must be put on that list. It’s hard to believe that this series is not shown throughout the USA but for those who have been curious about the series and have heard the rave reviews, this is one series that is truly fantastic and definitely worth watching!

This was a series that from the moment I started watching, I was instantly hooked and it was like a marathon of “Legend of the Seeker” weekend because I enjoyed it so much. From the first episode, what caught my interest was the fact that it was shot in New Zealand. The shots were absolutely beautiful and the whole concept of the Seeker, the Confessor, the Wizard and this tyrannical dark ruler was actually fascinating to me and I found that each of the talent casted for their roles were absolutely perfect.

I should emphasize that before watching this series, I haven’t read any of Terry Goodkind’s novels and I am familiar with disgruntled fans who were hoping the novels would receive a Harry Potter/Lord of the Rings film adaptation and also upset about the fact that the series is “loosely” based on the novels. But for what the writers and crew had to work with, I happened to find each episode so captivating, beautiful and just so addicting.

It’s one thing to watch the adventures of Richard, Kahlan and Zedd but when you see the Mord’sith character, you start to see how the series is a bit derivative to films like “Star Wars” and also Biblical stories and action sequences that are reminiscent to “Matrix” and “300″. But since I’m a fan of those stories, those little moments that are integrated into each episode, I personally wasn’t disappointed by any of that. The writers managed to keep each storyline quite fresh and entertaining that I felt that with each episode, you got something different each time.

“Legend of the Seeker: The Complete First Season” has definitely made me a fan but I do find it surprising that even ’til now, the nearest airing of this syndicated show is nearly 200-miles away (the official website has a zip code tracker to show you watch channel the show airs) and that is disappointing. But for now, for anyone who has been curious about this show, this complete first season on DVD is definitely worth owning. I enjoyed this series so much that I am hoping to hear it gets a High Definition transfer because the series looks quite beautiful. But overall, among the many television shows that are airing on the networks and cable networks, it’s nice to hear that there is a rare gem that exists in syndication.

“Legend of the Seeker: The Complete First Season” is highly recommended!

Filed Under: DVD Reviews

CASTLE – The Complete First Season (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

September 20, 2009 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

“Featuring well-written storylines, enjoyable characters and an intriguing concept, the first season of “CASTLE” is highly entertaining, suspenseful and definitely fun! ‘CASTLE – The Complete First Season’ is definitely worth checking out!”

DVD TITLE: CASTLE – The Complete First Season

DURATION: 10 episodes (430 minutes)

DVD INFORMATION: Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, French and Spanish Subtitles, Widescreen (1:78:1) – Enhanced for 16×9 Televisions

COMPANY: abc studios

RATED: TV PG

RELEASE DATE: September 22, 2009

Created by Andrew J. Marlowe

Directed by Rob Bowman, Bryan Spicer, John Terlesky

Written by Andrew J. Marlow, David Grae, Moira Kirland, Barry Schindel

Executive Producer: Rob Bowman, Andrew W. Marlowe, Laurie Zaks, Armyan Bernstein, Rene Echevarria

Co-Executive Producer: Gabrielle G. Stanton, Harry Werksman

Producer: D. Howard Grigsby, David Grae

Co-Producer: Mark A. Altman, Steven Kriozere

Associate Producer: Suzanne Lauer

Supervising Producer: Charles Murray

Music by Robert Duncan, Mark Kilian

Cinematography by Bill Roe

Edited by Warren Bowman, Mark S. Manos, Marta Evry

Casting by Kendra Castleberry, Donna Rosenstein

Production Design by Alfred Sole

Art Direction by Jim Wallis, Gershon Ginsburg

Set Decoration by Christopher Marsteller

Costume Design by Salvador Perez Jr.

Starring:

Nathan Fillion as Richard Castle

Stana Katic as Detective Kate Beckett

Susan Sullivan as Martha rodgers

Ruben Santiago-Hudson as Captain Roy Montgomery

Molly C. Quinn as Alexis Castle

John Huertas as Detective Javier Esposito

Seamus Dever as Detective Kevin Ryan

Tamala Jones as Dr. Lanie Parish

Bailey Chase as WIll Sorenson

Dan Castellaneta as Judge Markway

Joseph C. Phillips as Mayor

A bestselling novelist (Nathan Fillion) and a New York City detective (Stana Katic) delve into real world crime, starting with a copycat killer who recreates the murder scenes depicted in his novels. Finding true life mysteries more stimulating than fiction, writer Richard Castle continues to offer his professional insights to Detective Kate Beckett— whether she wants them or not. Sparks fly and a hint of romance hangs in the air as these two strong personalities investigate some of the most puzzling crimes on the NYPD’s docket.

Witty, suspenseful and fresh! The first season of “CASTLE” is the modern “Moonlighting” featuring a cool cast and each episode with an entertaining storyline.

“CASTLE” debuted on ABC as a mid-season replacement and began airing on March 2009. Created by Andrew M. Marlowe (“Air Force One”, “End of Days” and “Hollyw Man”) and executive produced by Rob Bowman (“The A-Team”, “The X-Files”, “Day Break”) comes a new drama series on crime solving.

The first season which featured 10 episodes stars actor Nathan Fillion (“Firefly”, “Drive” and “Desperate Housewives”) as Richard Castle. The famous mystery novelist who is adored by many but behind-the-scenes, he is a playboy who has an on-and-off fling with his ex-wife (who is an actress), another ex-wife who is his publisher and lives with his bright teenage daughter Alexis (Molly Quinn, “My One and Only”) and his meddlesome mother and former Broadway actress, Martha Rodgers (Susan Sullivan, “The Nine”, “Dharma & Greg”).

There is a lot of pressure on Nathan to create another book and with him stuck, his luck starts to change when he meets by-the-book Detective Kate Beckett (Stana Katic, “Heroes”, “The Spirit”, “Quantum of Solace”) who is investigating several murders which have taken place and the way that they were done were like the murders featured in several of his novels. Because of his knowledge of how things end up with his books, he gets the opportunity to assist the detectives in their case.

Eventually, Richard Castle discovers that he can do several things in his life. Write his new book based on Detective Beckett, see if he can woo Detective Beckett and most of all to investigate other murders which he can incorporate ideas for his new book. At first, it seems implausible but with Castle being so well-known and friends with the mayor, Captain Montgomery (Ruben Santiago-Huds0n) will do what he can to make the mayor and his boss happy, so he allows Richard to tag along with Detective Beckett.

Needless to say, she’s not happy about it but with his skills of mystery writing and her skills as a detective, the two find out that together, they can be an effective duo in crime solving. Also, joining Beckett are Detective Javier Esposito (Jon Huertas), Detective Kevin Ryan (Seamus Dever) and forensics doctor Dr. Lanie Parish (Tamala Jones).

“CASTLE – The Complete First Season” features 10 episodes on three discs. Included are (spoiler-less summaries):

DISC: 1

EPISODE 1 – Flowers For Your Graves – A copycat killer is on the loose and they are using Rick Castle’s novels as a source of ideas. With the NYPD Detectives having a tough time with the case, Castle offers to assist the investigators.
EPISODE 2 – Nanny McDead – A nanny is found dead inside a laundry machine and Investigator Beckett must find out who the killer is. Meanwhile, Rick Castle pulls strings with the Mayor and Captain in using Beckett as a source of ideas for his upcoming book, thus allowing him to tag around Detective Beckett on cases.
EPISODE 3 – Hell Hath no Fury – A body is found wrapped in a rug and Castle and Beckett and it appears to be a politician. Who killed him?
EPISODE 4 – Hedge Fund Homeboys – A man who once was from a wealthy family is found dead and while Beckett and Castle try to investigate, his friends try to do their best in stopping them.

DISC 2:

EPISODE 5 – A Chill Goes Through Her Veins – A woman is found frozen, her husband is found dead. Beckett and Castle investigate.
EPISODE 6 – Always Buy Retail – Why are women who have been buying fake Gucci bags being targeted for death?
EPISODE 7 – Home is Where the Heart Stops – Someone is murdering the rich and famous and robbing them of their jewelry. Can Beckett and Castle stop the person before they commit another murder?
EPISODE 8 – Ghosts – A woman is found dead in a bathtub filled with motor oil. And the woman who last spoke to her happens to be a mystery ghost writer. Will Beckett and Castle find out who the true killer is?

DISC 3:

EPISODE 9 – Little Girl Lost – A little girl has gone missing and for Detective Beckett, she is reunited with her former flame from the FBI.
EPISODE 10 – A Death in the Family – Detective Beckett warned Rick Castle not to look into the death of her mother but wanting to help her, he does. Meanwhile, the two investigate the death of a plastic surgeon.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“CASTLE – The Complete First Season” is presented in Widescreen (1:78:1) and is enhanced for 16×9 televisions. The drama series is quite slick as it gives you the feel of New York and like many abc studios related DVD releases, Disney has always done a good job with their TV show transfers. A show that balances outdoor and indoor shots with good lighting, the picture quality for “CASTLE” is pretty solid. I didn’t see any major artifacting issues or low level noise that was distracting.

As for the audio, the series is presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. The series is front and center channel driven with a few episodes (that involve gun fights) utilizing the surround channels. The series does utilize quite a bit of music and for the most, the series is understandable and clear.

Subtitles are in English SDH, French and Spanish.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“CASTLE – The Complete First Season” includes the following special features:

DISC 1:

Audio Commentary for “Flowers For Your Grave” with Executive Producer Andrew Marlow, Executive Producer Rob Bowman, Actors Nathan Fillion, Stana Katic and Jon Huertas

DISC 2:

Audio Commentary for “A Chill Goes Through Her Veins” with Executive Producer Andrew Marlow, Executive Producer Rob Bowman, Actors Nathan Fillion, Stana Katic, Jon Huertas and Molly Quinn

DISC 3:

Audio Commentary for “A Death in the Family” with Executive Producer Andrew Marlow, Executive Producer Rob Bowman, Actors Nathan Fillion, Stana Katic, Jon Huertas and Molly Quinn
Audio Commentary for “A Death in the Family” with Seamus Dever and Jon Huertas
Whodunit: The Genesis of Castle -(6:15) Andrew Marlowe talks about how he came up with the idea of “Castle”. Interviews with crew and cast and behind-the-scenes of making the series.
Castle’s Godfather – (7:16) Andrew Marlowe and Rob Bowman talk about how they got to work with Stephen J. Cannell (creator of “A-Team” and “Rockford Files”).
Write-Along with Nathan Fillion – (9:07) A hilarious featurette featuring Nathan Fillion wanting to learn from Stephen J. Cannell.
Misdemeanors: Bloopers & Outtakes – (2:37) First season bloopers.

“CASTLE” was definitely a surprise. I can remember seeing the commercials during “LOST” but and for the most part, it kind of reminded me of the old “Moonlighting” years of crime investigation. But after watching the first episode, I was instantly hooked.

Both Rick Castle and Detective Kate Beckett are just polar opposites but you know that there is this sexual attraction there that makes their chemistry work onscreen. In a way, both are like Bruce Wayne (Batman) in the way they are keen in investigating things. Castle, as a mystery writer and having done a lot of research, puts himself in the shoes of the criminal and thinks of the many possibilities that can exist between the characters. Detective Beckett, almost having a similar tragic Bruce Wayne story is a by-the-book detective and for the most part, have their unique way of feeding off each other in terms of handling a case. But Nathan Fillion and Stana Katic do a great job and have good chemistry onscreen.

So, far every episode has been intriguing, suspenseful and entertaining. If there was one thing that tends to creep in my head that is more on the negative side, is just the serious aspects of a popular writer getting the opportunity to tag along a detective on her various cases. I just have a hard time seeing the NYPD allowing such a thing and allowing a writer to get that close to the detectives.

Granted, this may seem a bit farfetched but overall, the writers make it work. Each of the characters are actually quite enjoyable to watch, especially Castle’s meddling mother Martha and logical and intelligent daughter Alexis, it’s good to see Castle pulled out of his element once in awhile. Beckett’s partners Detective Esposito and Ryan lend that serious but also comedic moment for the series.

The first season of “CASTLE” has been quite enjoyable thus far. I’m glad to hear that the series has been green lighted for a second season because “CASTLE” has been nothing but entertaining, fun and a suspenseful drama series thus far.

“CASTLE – The Complete First Season” is definitely worth checking out!

Filed Under: DVD Reviews