When it comes to shows that are products of the times in which they were popular, Ally McBeal is a near perfect fit. 10 years later the show has not aged gracefully, which is why its DVD release is interesting in a way. It’s a time machine back to an age that has long since passed, many years after its popularity waned and a proper DVD release would’ve been more appropriate. As it stands, it’s an interesting thing as the show seems to be missing one element that wouldn’t come for a while: a strong male role to complement its star.
Focusing on the trials and tribulations of a single female lawyer (Calista Flockhart in the title role) and her wacky law firm, the show has two main storylines: Ally’s social life and her professional career. Focusing on a different case each episode, as well as her sometimes interesting dating life, the show is in a nice rhythm. The addition of Lucy Liu and Portia De Rossi to a cast that already had strong chemistry with one another would prove to be successful; this is when the show would really find and maintain the formula that would keep it a success for the next two seasons.
The problem is that the show has aged significantly since its initial run on Fox. Watching the show now is almost painful at times; the show’s comedy, which at the time was “quirky” and interesting than what was currently on television, has lost a lot of its appeal. David E. Kelley was at the height of his powers around this point and, like the rest of the series he’s created, is more of a show that lives in the moment as opposed to being one that will hold up longer than within the context of the times it came out of. The show’s shining moments begin in its final season, with Robert Downey Junior’s rise (and subsequent fall), but as for now the show’s quirkiness feels out of place more than a decade after its initial run.
Presented in a full screen format with a Dolby Digital format, the show has a great presentation. Looking better than it did during its original broadcast, this is a vivid show with lots of dialogue and music that comes through wonderfully.
None.
With nothing besides the show, it’s only recommended for ardent, hardcore fans of Ally and her wacky pals.
Fox presents Ally McBeal (Season 2). Created by David E Kelley. Starring Calista Flockhart, Lucy Liu, Portia De Rossi. Not Rated Running time 1005: . Released on DVD: 4.6.2010. Available at Amazon.com.
