Family Guy, Vol. 2: Season 3

It is an unfortunate fact that in the politically correct age we live in that edgy comedy is categorized as offensive when it is really just being silly. That is exactly what happened to "Family Guy" a series that laid siege to every one of our sacred cows (religion, sex, violence, race relations, etc.), but did so in such a matter of fact manner, I find it hard to believe that anyone could have taken issue with it. Nonetheless, the series is no more; fortunately, we have the DVD compilations featuring every episode in its uncut hilariousness.Season Three comprises twenty-one episodes, one of which was never aired on television. Actually, "When You Wish Upon a Weinstein" exemplifies my point about political correctness, as its silly, even complimentary view of Judaism could offend only the most supremely sensitive person. But enough with the negative, as there are some genuinely hilarious episodes on these discs. Moreover, since Fox aired them somewhat sporadically during the final season, it's likely there are one or two episodes that will be new to the viewer. For example, I had never seen "A Very Special Family Guy Freakin' Christmas" or "Road to Europe" both of which feature some of the best parody in the set. Other highlights include "A Fish Out of Water" which features a spectacularly fat Peter, "To Love and Die in Dixie" which is the best "Family Guy" tribute to a TV series with its "Dukes of Hazard" inspired storyline, and "Family Guy Viewer Mail #1" which features three shorts that abandon all pretense of a basis in reality and produce some the best sight gags ever seen during the show's run.That said, anyone who buys this set probably already knows how funny this show is, but what makes this collection really impressive is the quality of the extras. First off is the packaging itself which features an episode guide on the back of each case, which makes it easy to find that specific episode you're looking for. Or, if you've got more time, the ability to play every episode on the disc consecutively is a great feature. In addition, the commentary which is available on five of the episodes ranges from informative to hysterical. However, the true highlights are to be found on Disc 3, which contains animatics (pencil drawings) of several deleted scenes, complete with dialogue. These are nice not only because they contain new material, but also because they offer some insight into how the episodes evolved into their finished form. Next are two short documentaries, which offer a funny, interesting look into the series' development, the voice talent, how the characters evolved, and ultimately, why the show didn't last. Finally, there is the "Family Guy" pilot that was pitched to the network; again it's interesting to see how these relatively crudely drawn (but well voiced) characters evolved into the show that become such a cult hit.Ultimately, if you are a big fan of the show, you need this collection, and nothing I say here is going to make you more likely to buy it. However, if you're sitting on the fence, I can't emphasize enough what a great show "Family Guy" is. It is literally funnier than anything on TV today, and over time, I expect it will be even more broadly appreciated for its comic genius. If you want to laugh until it hurts, and aren't offended by humor on the edge, this is definitely a show for you. Finally, I would just like to point out that Seth MacFarlane alludes to a line written for Stewie in an episode that never aired, so let's all hope that there may be yet more to come!Enjoy!Jake Mohlman

This is a great DVD set collecting the one time final season of the best animated comedy series to hit the airways since the  The Simpsons . Each episode is jam-packed with more pop-cultural references than a VH1 special. From  The Dukes of Hazzard  to  Adam West , The Incredible Hulk  to  Optimus Prime , series creator Seth MacFarlane manages to masterfully walk that fine line between parody and homage.The picture quality is nearly flawless and the audio is a Dolby 2.0 soundtrack. The extras are much improved for this release than the previous volume. The most hyped addition to this set is easily the inclusion of the previously unaired 'When You Wish Upon a Weinstein' episode. While many many not find anything offensive about it, there is no doubt somebody somewhere can. The deleted scenes are surprisingly funny to watch considering the animation is unfinished. Perhaps the best bonus feature is the short pilot pitch that was only shown to FOX executives to sell the series. After seeing this, one has to commend FOX for taking a chance with a series that was so similar to 'the Simpsons' in many ways (a gamble most famously exploited by  The Flintstones  and its blatant similarities to  The Honeymooners ).The only negative side to the extras come in the form of the few commentaries, which are traditionally a good source of information and levity. But unfortunately, these commentaries are played entirely for laughs as cell phones can be heard ringing, people walking in on the recording sessions, pointless anecdotes that have nothing to do with the episode, and of course, the annoying long moments of silence where it seems like everyone simply wants to go home. On the rare occasions that someone starts to say something relevant to the show, he is quickly interrupted by more horse-play. While it is great that the crew get along so well, it makes for a wasted listening experience. But this is only a minor quibble about an otherwise wonderful box set that is easily a worthwhile addition to anyone's DVD library.

"Family Guy" remains one of the funniest shows ever to hit the small screen. (The character of Stewie remains one of TV's greatest creations, destined to live forever in our hearts. God bless you, Seth MacFarlane!) It's a pity the folks at Fox who were once so seemingly cutting-edge are now so committee-driven that they can't recognize a gem when they see it. Fortunately for us, though, there's DVD.The package for Seasons 1&2 could have been cleaned up a bit, but this Season 3 transfer looks great!! The commentaries are not necessarily helpful -- Seth MacFarlane and the gang often start riffing, & frequently one wishes they spent more time actually watching the episode & commenting on what was going on therein -- but dang, they're funny!! And they make you feel like you're sitting there with them (being ignored). Practically every episode will have you aching with laughter. "When You Wish Upon A Weinstein" is dynamite.I do find myself wondering if I'm missing an "in" joke with this DVD set. Jennifer Love Hewitt appears in one episode as Peter's date, and the actress guest-voices herself ... but the jewel case lists "Gwyneth Paltrow" as the guest for that episode. Huh?! It's not possible to confuse Jennifer Love Hewitt and Gwyneth Paltrow ... is it? Maybe I just don't get it. Oh, well.In any event, fans of the show have likely already bought the set, or are about to. But if you're a fan of cutting edge comedy, do yourself a favor and pick up this DVD set!!

Bought this recently as it was cheap and so I could watch the season in its original format and play speed (NTSC). Interestingly, this box set is region-free despite stating Region 1 on the box, unlike all the other US releases which are all Region 1-locked.Great season of Family Guy from the “classic” era.

When I first saw Family Guy I valiantly defended it against the criticisms levelled at it. However, this season following on from the first season which was really good, does expose a lot of flaws. It has its moments sure, but Peter becomes even more stupid and irritating, and they could really get rid of Chris (or at least make him a dumb mute). Not enough focus on Brian and Stewie where the real humour of the show lies, and as a result the whole thing kind of fails to really ignite. Not bad but not great and you too will proably be starting to doubt the wisdom of this purchase by the third disc.

who cant love the family guy ... this series will not disappoint ... a lot of laughs in this series

Thank you for a great product. Pleasure doing business with.

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