Ruby-red slippers or not, Dorothy and Toto wouldn't make it past the opening credits in Oz, the HBO original series chronicling the arduous life of captives of Oswald Maximum Security Prison (known as Oz). The complete first season, eight-episode, three-disc set opens with a corker, "The Routine," which introduces the prison and its denizens, specifically the inmates in Emerald "Em" City--an experimental division (likened to a "concentration camp") focused on rehabilitative therapy rather than punitive reprisal. From exhilarating (though foul-mouthed) poetry, a sudden ban on smoking (with riotous results), and tension caused by homosexual advances, the initial induction into Oz mainly follows a trio of inmates: former lawyer fish who falls into the wrong hands, a family man turned likable ass-kicker with an attitude, and a famed religious rabble rouser who claims he'll take over the prison. Combining fast-paced cinematography, narrative flashbacks, and commentary from a handicapped inmate (perfectly executed by Harold Perrineau) who serves as our guide, Oz's regular roster, which includes Eamonn Walker, Lee Tergesen, Ernie Hudson, B.D. Wong, and Rita Moreno, is bolstered with many guest stars. DVD extras include deleted scenes, commentaries by creator Tom Fontana and star Tergesen, and the music video "Behind the Walls," featuring rappers Kurupt and Nate Dogg. Highly recommended. (J. Williams)
Oz : The Complete First Season
HBO, 3 discs, 451 min., not rated, DVD: $64.98 May 20, 2002
Oz : The Complete First Season
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