NASCAR Winston Cup 2002

NASCAR addicts will have a field day with this two-disc DVD set, the first of which presents a two-hour encapsulated view of each of the 36 races that made up the 2002 season, capped by interviews with the winning drivers who recall the unique challenges of their respective victories. The second disc offers the intriguing and engaging 76-minute documentary "Road to Daytona 2003," narrated by Ken Squiers, which follows the long preparations and pre-season testing leading up to the annual racing championship; for those unfamiliar with the NASCAR orbit, it might make sense to watch this first for a glimpse into the passion, planning, and personalities that make auto racing among the most popular sports in the country. As for those 36 races…well…viewing one or two may be intriguing for a newcomer, but after a while, they all to start to look identical unless you happen to be a die-hard NASCAR fanatic. Of course, NASCAR Winston Cup 2002 is clearly intended for the converted and any criticism of its shortcomings will inevitably be used as proof that the naysayers just don't get it. Both programs are also available on VHS separately, for $19.98 each, making the DVD a real bargain for its target audience. Recommended. [Note: also newly available, Winston Cup 2003, Tony Stewart Smoke, and Decade at the Brickyard on VHS and DVD.] Aud: P. (P. Hall)