Review of South Park Volume 1

Introduction

"The reason for South Park`s success is simple: it`s very, very funny."

That quote comes from "The Sunday Times" of all places, but I couldn`t have said it better myself. An animated comedy series which looks like it should appeal mostly to children is in fact one of the funniest (and rudest) programmes to hit our screens in years. And it should definitely not be shown to children.

Video

A reasonable 4:3 transfer is on show here. There`s not that much wrong with it, but it`s not perfect. Some compression artefacts are on show, and you do wonder if they cut corners given that this is only a DVD-5. Given the simplicity of the animation, it`s reasonable to expect a little more quality.

Audio

A DD2.0 stereo track is here, the same as the original broadcast. It`s perfectly adequate for the job.

There is also a French audio track too, and it`s interesting to hear how the characters are voiced differently. And you get to hear :- "Mon dieu, ils sont tue Kenny!"

Some of their translations are slightly toned down too !

Features

There`s a general trailer for the show, but of greater note are the introductions to each of the episodes, featuring creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone. These are very funny and a worthwhile addition to the disc.

You do feel like there could have been more stuff included though.

Conclusion

The first four South Park episodes are presented here.

"Cartman gets an Anal Probe" was the first episode and really set the tone for the next three series (the fourth is currently airing in the USA). Most of the main characters are introduced in just 20 minutes.

"Volcano" introduces us to "Vietnam veterans" Jimbo and Ned, and features the first mad monster "Scuzzlebutt".

"Weightgain 4000" concentrates on Cartman, and the bizarre Mr Garrison & Mr Hat, who are an inspired pairing.

"Big Gay Al`s Big Gay Boat Ride" features a special guest appearance from George Clooney - as the voice of Stan`s gay dog Sparky.

A very strong start for South Park, the first four episodes are very funny and a good introduction to the series. Not for the easily offended though.