The fifth season of Larry David's highly regarded HBO series disappointed some fans, who thought its star and creator had lost his edge. But if this one seems a little off par, it's only because the preceding seasons were so outstanding. This group of ten episodes gets off to a good start with “The Larry David Sandwich,” which finds our hero tempted to reevaluate his life after having a near-death experience (and also deciding he doesn't like a deli sandwich named after him). The fate of recurring character Richard Lewis, a neurotic comedian playing himself, becomes a running subplot in the season's second half after he learns that he needs a kidney transplant. This narrative arc is carried to hilarious extremes in “The Ski Lift,” when Larry—hoping to avoid donating a kidney to his pal—tries to impress an orthodox Jew who has the power to move Lewis to the top of the list for a new kidney. Also on tap is a continuing investigation: Larry, believing he is adopted, hires a private investigator to try to locate his birth parents. Like other seasons, this one features the usual assortment of celebrity guest stars playing themselves, including Rosie O'Donnell and newly minted reality-show star Hugh Hefner and his three girlfriends. Maybe the 2005 season didn't quite match earlier entries, but I can honestly say that after watching this DVD collection, my enthusiasm for the show hasn't been curbed at all. DVD extras include a pair of behind-the-scenes documentaries. Recommended. (E. Hulse)
Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Complete Fifth Season
HBO, 2 discs, 315 min., not rated, DVD: $39.98 Volume 21, Issue 5
Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Complete Fifth Season
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