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| Available at Amazon.com |
In a television world that has been overrun by reality TV, I generally always cringe at the idea of sitting through any amount of it. But I must admit that Family Jewels is a pretty entertaining reality show as far as they go. So what is it that makes this show about a self-indulgent rock star and his family worth watching?
Like all reality shows, much of what happens seems staged and set up; but beyond all the production and set dressing this is a show about a fairly well adjusted family and they’re day-to-day affairs like planning rock shows, getting plastic surgery and other things we can all relate to. What makes this show watchable is that the core characters are actually interesting and enjoyable to watch. For a rock star and an ex-playboy model Gene and Shannon are very down to earth people and so are their kids. Some of the more entertaining moments on the show are when the kids make fun of Gene and his oversized ego. Also, I think I can honestly say that this is a show for almost all ages, as I personally know some one who is 85 and loves it! However, she’s also a huge Kiss fan so perhaps she’s a little biased.
So the show’s pretty good, but what about this DVD? Frankly, this DVD is pretty worthless. Seasons 1 and 2 have already been released on DVD and if you’re that big a fan of the show you probably already own them. This DVD includes four episodes from each season and while they are pretty good episodes, who exactly would want to own them? Even if you’ve never seen the show and are curious, you’re better off renting the first season than you are renting this.
Episodes:
Season 1:
Happily Unmarried
Gene is proud of the fact that he is not married but what happens when his surprise birthday party for Shannon turns around on him?
Next Generation Rock Star
When Gene learns that his son Nick is in a band he gets a little over zealous and gets them a gig, but are they ready?
The Demon Lives
When Gene learns that he is going to be honored on VH1 he must once again don the Demon person, but will the costume still fit?
Driving Me Crazy
Gene and Nick make a bet as to who is the better driver. Gene also gets angry that Sophie is dating.
Season 2:
Under The Knife?
Gene has agreed to get plastic surgery but business matter take precedence.
A Bun In The Oven?
Shannon thinks she may be pregnant and with Gene on the road he is dying to know the answer.
Nice Day For a Facelift
With Gene’s business under control and Shannon not pregnant the two finally get in for their facelifts.
Face Off
Gene and Shannon deal with the aftermath of their surgeries. This is a pretty grim and gruesome episode.
The episodes are presented in a fullscreen format 1.33:1. Sound is in Stereo. The episodes look and sound fine. Nothing to complain about here.
Bonus Episode: “Master Gene Theater” This is a bloopers and behind the scenes episode. I guess that’s an extra….
I don’t really have anything bad to say about the show, it’s good at times, but there really is no point to this particular DVD release. If you really feel you need to own or rent the show just get the full seasons? Why settle for less?
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A&E presents Gene Simmons Family Jewels: The Best Of Seasons 1 & 2. Created by Adam Reed. Starring Gene Simmons, Shannon Tweed. Running time: 176 minutes. Not Rated. Released on DVD: April 1, 2008. Available at Amazon.com.
About Mike Noyes
