Mythbusters: Collection 1

Do silicone breast implants explode at high altitudes? Is it really possible to pick up radio signals through the fillings in your teeth? Do tanning beds bake you from the inside out? In this four-disc boxed set collecting the first 12 episodes of the popular Discovery Channel series Mythbusters—which gleefully debunks urban myths—hosts Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage use a wide variety of jury-rigged devices (and a boatload of dummies) to test the veracity of colorful claims that many people take as fact. The two mythbusters are special-effects wizards who can simulate just about anything, although they rarely get things right on the first attempt. I particularly liked their stab at replicating one of my favorite gimmicks from old whodunits: the bullet made of ice, which kills its victim but melts before the body cools, thus leaving no evidence. Another neat segment looks at whether a cell-phone signal actually could ignite gas fumes at a service station. Although best consumed in small doses, this is fun stuff that is sure to appeal to the naturally curious. DVD extras include a “Mythbusters: Revealed” featurette. Recommended. Aud: P. (E. Hulse)