Friends Seasons 1 and 2 Blu-ray Reviews
The first 2 seasons of “Friends” have hit Blu-ray in individual season sets.
In the 24 episode first season of the mega popular sitcom “Friends,” viewers are introduced to Joey, Phoebe, Ross, Rachel, Monica and Chandler via misadventures involving poker, Thanksgiving, Valentine’s Day, a monkey named Marcel, a thief, ugly naked guy, and a NYC blackout. Of course, if you are familiar with the show, you know that “Friends” is primarily about the 6 main characters and, as such, a majority of the plots revolve around these characters. Some of the more character centric plot subjects include: exes, Ross falling for Rachel, Joey getting an “acting” job, relationships, Ross and Monica’s grandmother, Chandler’s mother, a baby, Phoebe’s twin sister, and role reversal.
In the second season (which is also comprised of 24 episodes), viewers should expect more of the same antics and character dynamics. Highlights of this season’s stories include: Ross having a new girlfriend, breastfeeding, a deceased neighbor, Phoebe’s husband, father and family, money, babysitting, the infamous “Smelly Cat,” more Ross and Rachel drama, Rachel dating a Ross lookalike, two weddings, Joey’s acting career, gold bracelets, the return of Marcel, a prom video, Joey and Chandler clashing as roomates, Monica and Richard’s relationship, bullies, a birthday surprise, and chicken pox.
In case you didn’t pick up the complete series of “Friends” last year on Blu-ray (reviewed here: https://dvdcorner.net/2012/12/11/friends-the-complete-series-blu-ray-review/), Warner Brothers is now starting to release single season sets of “Friends” on Blu-ray beginning with the first 2 seasons.
The first season is a bit rough around the edges, but everything that fans loved about the show is established here ala the character friendships and relationships, the romance between Ross and Rachel, the quirky humor, etc. The show still seems fresh here as we get to know the six friends despite the fact that “Friends” is still by and large a typical sitcom in terms of storytelling. It just so happens that the more talented cast of “Friends” makes one forget the formulaic nature of the show and its often overplayed humor.
The second season is certainly a cut above season 1 as it really hits it stride here. The humor is much stronger in the sophomore season with genuinely funny bits like “Smelly Cat” and the prom video. These are simply classic moments that were undoubtedly the definition of water cooler moments back in the 90’s. The character dynamics and cast chemistry is also improved here. Even if you find the characters annoying, you can’t deny that the chemistry between Jennifer Aniston, Courtney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer was impressive.
Another highlight of season 2 is the guest stars. While season 1 had some amusing appearances by George Clooney and Jon Lovitz, season 2 boasted some memorable star cameos such as Julia Roberts, Charlie Sheen, and even Jean-Claude Van Damme. The cameos may be inconsequential to the overall show, but episodes can easily be brightened up by a fun guest appearance.
Video/Audio:
Presented in 1.78:1 1080p, the episodes naturally look better than the original broadcasts, but you can’t help but be a little disappointed by the quality. The colors look sharper, but the episodes loom a bit fuzzy and flat at times.
The Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track is a slap in the face to fans. If you’re going to spend money to remaster the episodes, why not include a lossless track? The fans deserve better than this. With all of that said, the DD5.1 track is still adequate.
Season 1 Extras:
* Season 2 trailer.
* Ultraviolet digital copy.
* Commentary on The Pilot by Kevin S. Bright, Marta Kauffman and David Crane.
* “Friends of Friends”- Clips of guest stars in the first season.
Season 2 Extras:
* Ultraviolet digital copy.
* The uncut version of “Smelly Cat.”
* “Friends Of Friends”- Another segment about the guest stars (this time for season 2).
* “What’s Up With Your Friends?”- A collection of highlights from the 6 main characters (with Gunther hosting a brief introduction).
Summary: If you are charmed by “Friends” and want to relive the series time and time again, pick up the first two seasons on Blu-ray.
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