The King of Queens: 6th Season

When this sitcom premiered in 1998, even the most astute pundit would have been hard pressed to predict that it would last eight seasons. After all, top-billed Kevin James was an obscure standup comic, costar Leah Remini was best known (if at all) for a recurring role on one season of Saved by the Bell, and the working-class suburban milieu hardly offered prospects for cutting-edge comedy. But everybody underestimated the chemistry between James and Remini, not to mention the ongoing appeal of simple situations that reflected the real lives and attitudes of many viewers. By the 2003-04 sixth season, however, it became clear that ennui had settled in, and these 24 episodes aren't as fresh as those from previous years. There are some standouts, of course. The two-part season opener, “Doug Less,” finds Carrie (Remini) increasingly annoyed with the complements paid to the newly svelte Doug (James). Another neat episode pits Doug against a high-school rival, while one rib-tickler—a showcase for supporting player Jerry Stiller as Carrie's wacky dad—finds the Heffernan household in turmoil when Arthur runs away from home. Presented on an extra-less three-disc set, this is a strong optional purchase. (E. Hulse)