Glee: The Complete First Season

The musical format hit TV with a bang in Fox's whip-smart Glee, featuring a conglomeration of nerds, jocks, and cool kids who unite in song. Combining sitcom humor and dramatic storylines, the series is a lively hybrid set at an Ohio high school where football is king and the cheerleading Cheerios squad rank as national champions—making the ragtag glee club an easy target. Will Schuester (Matthew Morrison), the choristers' earnest and dedicated leader, must continually confront the machinations of his arch-nemesis, Cheerios coach and all-round misanthrope Sue Sylvester (Jane Lynch), while the talented teens (among them, Lea Michele, Cory Montieth, Chris Colfer, and Dianna Agron) face the myriad issues and challenges of growing up—sometimes via song. Every episode features an energetic production number drawn from a variety of musical styles, including Broadway standards, classic rock tunes, ballads, hip-hop, rap, and contemporary hits (including selections from Madonna and Lady Gaga). The Emmy and Golden Globe-winning series has enchanted critics and viewers alike, spawning a passionate following of fans known as “Gleeks.” Compiling all 22 episodes from the 2009–10 first season, DVD and Blu-ray extras include behind-the-scenes featurettes, plus a sing-along karaoke feature and music jukebox. Exclusive to the Blu-ray version is a visual commentary track on the pilot with cast and crew members. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. (S. Axmaker)