That ‘70s Show Season Two DVD

CORPORATE LINE: Fondly commemorating and gently poking fun at the trends, fashions, and attitudes that made the decade of the 1970s so distinct, THAT 70S SHOW chronicles the relatively universal trials and tribulations of a group of teens growing up in the Wisconsin suburbs. Eric Forman (Topher Grace, OCEAN’S TWELVE, WIN A DATE WITH TAD HAMILTON) lives with his parents, Red and Kitty (Debra Jo Rupp), in a household that is comfortable though not entirely financially secure. Eric longs to escape from their authority, though they are relatively understanding, if a little unconventional at times. They even let Eric and his friends while away their time in the Forman basement, discussing their teenage concerns. Eric and his girlfriend Donna (Laura Prepon), who lives next door, are constantly trying to navigate their loving, though tumultuous, relationship, and in this season they take that relationship to the next level. The rest of the gang is comprised of conspiracy-theorist Hyde (Danny Masterson), cheerleader Jackie (Mila Kunis) and her gullible but good-looking boyfriend Kelso (Ashton Kutcher, THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT), and exchange student Fez (Wilmer Valerrama). This season includes the episodes “Garage Sale,” “Donna and Eric Sleepover,” “Eric’s Stash,” “Kiss of Death,” and “Red Fired Up,” and many others.

THE SHOW: The second season is funnier than the first because it seems everyone from the cast down to the show writers have relaxed and let the jokes come naturally. The addition of Laurie, Eric’s older sister, adds to a love triangle between her, Kelso, and Jackie. Eric and Donna are awkwardly pondering taking their relationship to a new level. It’s funny to watch Eric trying to figure out how to act cool when he has no idea what is cool.

Red is his usual caustic self—even more so after been fired from his job at the factory. There are a few serious moments as well and each episode is full of the typical teenage trials and stupidity that turn into hilarious moments.

DVD FEATURES: The opening commentary by David Trainer is interesting even if much of it has been heard during season one. He discusses how the show had developed further from the first season. It would have been much more interesting had the cast been part of the discussion.

The featurette “Webisodes” is some promo pieces where you get behind the scenes film. It’s barely interesting and not exactly a behind the scenes in terms of info and value of many other DVD’s that have behind the scenes features.

Finally there is a “Season One: A Look Back” is an interesting idea but is the filler.

FRANKLY: That ‘70s Show Season Two DVD is certainly great for fans of the show. It’s very light on extras so if you are buying the DVD for the episodes alone you’ll be satisfied.

+ Charlie Craine