The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr.: The Complete Series DVD: Review By Dodd

As if the production studios have not unearthed a vast number of forgotten television shows already, another title has come along that evokes childhood memories of sitting in front of the tube. It seems like just yesterday that Friday evenings consisted of sitting at home (since I had no social life at the time) and watching quality network television programming. At one point, the popularized X-Files was preceded by a full hour of campy, over-the-top, gun slinging goodness. This show was only known as The Adventures of Brisco County Jr. And yes, the entire series is now available on 8-disc DVD.

Brisco County is a program that broke the usual generic conventions of television, which probably explains why it crashed and burned before moving into a second season. The series crosses the western with science fiction conventions. Before you jump to conclusions, let me clarify that this is nothing like Wild Wild West. Think more along the lines of Back to the Future III with more slapstick.

Bruce Campbell, also known as beloved badass Ash from the Evil Dead films, makes his big television debut as the title character. After his infamous father, Brisco County, is gunned down by notorious outlaw John Bly (Billy Drago) and his gang, County Jr. steps forward with vengeance on his mind. Hired by a team of wealthy tycoons, Brisco is given assignments by uptight lawyer Socrates Pool (Christian Clemenson) and sets out on various missions to overthrow the sc*m of the West, and make the law right.

Of course, along the way, Brisco encounters an array of characters that either assist him or make his life a living hell. This includes a rival bounty hunter named Bowler (Julius Carry), the smoking showgirl squeeze of a wanted outlaw (Kelly Rutherford), and a clumsy inventor (John Astin).

It is hard to form an opinion of Brisco County Jr. Frankly the show is slumsy with its poorly-written dialogue and cheese direction. However, I couldn't take my eyes off the screen, and I couldn't take the smile off my face. Brisco is what Xena would be if it were a science fiction western as opposed to a fantasy. The production quality is very much in the viewer's face, yet its camp is intended for admiration. While I can't say I appreciate the production values of Xena, this zany generic hybrid is undeniably fun and addictive.

Of course as a horror aficionado, I appreciate Bruce Campbell's starring turn as Brisco. The B-movie actor has cultivated a following thanks to his knack for physical comedy and devilish good looks. The man comes through here 100% as a Havard-educated cowboy scouring the West for bad guys and scientific orbs that give people limitless powers.

Commentary- Bruce Campbell and creator Carlton Cuse

The pilot episode is the only one that contains a commentary track. While I wish Campbell could have contributed to more episodes, this is a sufficient bonus. Both men are eagerly talkative about the experience of shooting the pilot, and Campbell is always good for a laugh or two.

Brisco's Book of Things to Come

The novelty really wears thin with this one. There is a full list of various inventions mentioned in the episodes. Each one clocks in at about 1 minute with a voiceover of Brisco Country describing the items in his journal. The joke is to hear a cowboy speak with naivety about not-yet invented items that we are familiar with today. Unfortunately, this is only amusing for so long.

The History of Brisco County

This is an all-encompassing retrospective piece that collects interviews from various cast and crew about the conception of the show and the production process. A bulk of this is devoted to the cast members describing the obvious qualities of their characters. While it does summarize a bit too much at times, this is still an overall solid doc*mentary.

Tools of the Trade

This is one of the more interesting featurettes which focuses on crucial props for the series including guns and horses. The description of the various stunt horses involved in shooting the show is especially fun to listen to.

A Reading from the Book of Bruce

Bruce Campbell himself sits down for a reading of a chapter from his book, If Chins Could Kill. I am not sure if it is just me, but I have a difficult time focusing on book readings especially when I am expecting something spectacular on a DVD. However, Campbell's humorous memoir is an entertaining account of working on the set of a big-budget series.

A Brisco County Writer's Room

Various writers from the show have a group discussion about conceptualizing ideas. Extras tend to wear thin as they progress down the list, and this one failed to hold my attention for too long. However, it serves are great filler for an already-jam-packed DVD.

Full Screen. The episodes are featured in their original state when aired. The 1993 series has been cleaned up and looks very polished on DVD.

Dolby Stereo. This does not appear to have a 5.1 track. However, it still comes through on standard speakers. However, the western action would have come through nice on a surround system.

Eight discs are packed into a folding case with a thick packaging sleeve. The DVD includes an insert booklet with descriptions of the episodes written by Bruce Campbell himself.

The Adventures of Brisco County Jr. is not the best show to hit the airwaves, and I understand its short lifespan. However, it is undeniably charming, humorous, and action-packed. There are fans of this show and Bruce Campbell that will surely rush out to buy this anticipated DVD. Those established fans are highly encouraged to buy this series. However, those not familiar with the premise should seek it out at their local video rental.