DVD Corner

Red Dwarf X Blu-ray Review

“Red Dwarf X” is inconsistent, but often amusing.

The human junk collector (Dave Lister), the cat man (appropriately named Cat), the mechanoid servant (Kryten), and the hologram vending machine repairman (Arnold Rimmer) are back for 6 new episodes of the cult British sci-fi sitcom. In these outings, expect to see plots about Arnold getting an SOS call from his Captain brother’s ship, a new computer, Lister celebrating being his own father, a meeting with Jesus, a battery made out of lemons, a groin exploder bomb, Cat and Kryten becoming “entangled,” vending machines in love with Lister, Lister learning that he might have a child, and the Dwarfers hiding from the Annihilators and a Death Ship.

Over the years, I’ve had limited exposure to “Red Dwarf.” I’ve seen some of the early episodes from season one in 1988, but I haven’t seen much else. I’ve always been curious about the series though as you don’t see too many sci-fi comedies (let alone ones that have ran for 25 years). When “Red Dwarf X” arrived in my mailbox, I was eager to check it out as I’ve heard fans buzzing about it as of late. So, how does the new series fare? That probably depends on whether you are a fan or a newbie to the show.

First of all, let me alleviate any fears about this series being a failure because it isn’t. These 6 episodes offer up plenty of laughs. How can you not laugh at Arnold crashing, Arnold’s brother’s reaction to Arnold as a Captain, lines about Shakespeare’s Skullet and Tai Wan Tony, Cat’s reaction to the groin exploder, or the Charades game? Equally entertaining is the season finale which is packed with sci-fi action and villainous characters.

With that said, there are jokes that don’t land quite as well. As with most sitcoms, the jokes and episodes can be hit-and-miss (this is most apparent with“Dear Dave”). The writers tend to go for some cheap laughs at times which can make the show a bit cheesy. The return of the laugh track doesn’t help this matter either.

Video/Audio:

The series, which is presented in widescreen 1080p, looks flat out gorgeous in hi-def. Not only are the colors crystal clear, but the sets and visual f/x look highly detailed as well. Fans will not be disappointed by this hi-def disc.

The 5.1 DTS-HD audio track delivers clear sounding sound f/x, dialogue, and laugh tracks (for better or worse).

Extras:
* Deleted scenes from all 6 episodes and the closing titles. Viewers have the option of playing commentary over these scenes by Doug Naylor.
* “Smeg Ups”- Amusing outtakes.
* “We’re Smegged The Making Of:” includes cast/crew interviews, convention footage, filming with a studio audience, discussions about the new series, behind-the-scenes footage of the sets, etc. Well worth watching.

Summary: I’m confident most “Red Dwarf” fans will be pleased by these episodes. They may not be classics, but they’re rewarding for the most part.

January 18, 2013 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Arnold Rimmer, Dave Lister, Kryten, Red Dwarf Blu-ray, Red Dwarf X Blu-ray Review, Smeg