Monsterquest: The Complete Season One

Collected in a four-disc box set, the 13 episodes of this 2007-08 first season of the popular A&E series follow modern-day “monster hunters” who employ state-of-the-art technology to evaluate evidence that could prove the existence of various legendary creatures thought to dwell in Earth's dark corners. Monkey men, werewolves, sea monsters—all come under the microscopes of intrepid explorers and scientists in these informative and entertaining shows that present factual data, but aren't above enticing viewers with some good old-fashioned sensationalism (the most colorful part of any episode is the early segment in which that week's creature is profiled). Practically every installment features on-camera testimony from seemingly credible eyewitnesses who swear they've seen something unexplainable, and while the producers' hype is occasionally laid on a bit thick, for the most part Monsterquest plays fair with its viewers, and the scientific methods depicted are quite fascinating. Episodes include “America's Loch Ness Monster,” “Gigantic Killer Fish,” “The Real Hobbit,” and my personal favorite, “Russia's Killer Apemen,” on Stalin's plan to cross-breed apes and humans. DVD extras include a behind-the-scenes featurette. Recommended. (E. Hulse)