Review of Stargate SG1: Volume 31

Introduction

I`ve got volumes 1-10, 13, 18, 19, 25, 26, 27, 29 and 30 of Stargate SG1 on DVD - and this Volume 31 contains the final two episodes from Series 6 (the episode descriptions are shown above in the disc details section)

Episode 131 - Prophecy - (originally broadcast on 14 March 2003)

Episode 132 - Full Circle - (originally broadcast on 21 March 2003)

Video

The video comes in 16:9 anamorphic widescreen and like the rest of the Stargate SG1 releases is of an exceptionally high standard throughout all four episodes. Stargate SG1 has always had high production values, this quality is reflected in an image that is exceptionally sharp, with no grain and no dirt and a wonderfully vibrant image.

As ever, the effects are quite good, with good set design and construction combined with CGI helping to give a quality feel to the production. As with the other volumes, the episodes contain a good mix of drama and action, and combine location shooting with studio footage. All in all, there can be no complaints about the visuals.

Audio

The soundtrack is presented in Dolby Digital 5.1, which, as usual, is well presented but for the most part concentrates on the front three speakers. The rear channels are only used occasionally for effects and atmospheric sounds, but then as this is a made-for-TV series, this is perhaps only to be expected. The series also features quite a good score, which helps build tension at key moments.

The dialogue is clear and understandable throughout each of the episodes.

Features

As with the other releases in the series, there are plenty of extras for Stargate SG1 fans to get their teeth into. There are two instalments of the "SG1 Director`s Series", entitled "Prophecy" and "Full Circle", which both briefly look at how the two episodes in question were made.

Next is a "SG1 Video Diary" entitled "Richard Dean Anderson: Paradise Lost" - which is, er, a video diary that runs for about ten minutes hosted by Richard Dean Anderson!

Next up is the "Season 6 Stills Gallery 7", which is followed by audio commentaries on both episodes, each one featuring the respective director and other cast members, all giving the usual factual, technical and background information.

Following (and making up for the inclusion of only two episodes on the disc) is a two-part documentary entitled "The Lowdown" which runs for a total of 55 minutes.

Conclusion

As with others in the series, it`s highly unlikely that anyone will just buy the 31th volume of a series without having seen any of the previous episodes, so you`re likely to know what to expect from the content of this disc.

The disc contains another two good episodes, all very well presented, with an excellent range of extras that comprises two featurettes and four commentary tracks along with a stills gallery plus a good documentary.

Once again, the Stargate discs are a recommended release and continue to set the standard for DVD editions of television science fiction.