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Melrose Place: The Fifth Season, Vol. 1
Amazon Price: $26.99List Price: Not yet released By: Paramount |
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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 6
Average rating: 4.0 of 5
at last! 4 out of 5 stars.
3 of 5 people found this review helpful.
At last, season 5 is coming.
Thankfully, CBS DVD are getting Melrose Place back on dvd after abandoning it last year in the us, and in 2007 in europe. And not just for region 1 (us and canada), season 3 finally will arrive in europe on feb 9th too! So the future for melrose on dvd is looking up indeed!
THE DVDS:
On feb 10 , we will get part one of the season on a 4 disc set (episodes 1-19 reportedly, (tvshowsondvd.com), but 17 will be exactly half the season. time will tell.
Paramount have now decided to go the Dynasty route for Melrose Place ...i.e split each season into volumes 1 and 2, absolutely no good reason for doing so other than money. it isn't ideal to have seasons split but i see amazon are today offering it for $26.99, and that is half what i paid for seasons 3 and 4 on amazon on their release date so maybe volumes 1 and 2 of this season will work out similar to what we paid for complete seasons in the past (before sales, reductions). ultimately, fans have to accept that we are a niche market- it's the old supply and demand scenario--not enough people are interested in buying this series to make it profitable, so we have to be prepared to pay some premium to make it viable to release the show any more... and split seasons is this premium.
I'm sure a lot of people are going to be really annoyed by this ...it's not going to be ideal but I for one am simply glad that season five (the last truly enjoyable season) is making its way to dvd at ALL.
We have a choice: accept what we are getting and be grateful for small mercies and just accept that Paramount could easily do without the hassle and effort of releasing a series that has to date not been very profitable. Paramount can and will make more money, easily and quickly with other titles like CSI etc which have mass and current appeal, Melrose on the other hand won't make them much.
I don't like siding with Paramount ... I know it would be fairer for us as consumers to get complete seasons ... but the past year has taught me to be happy with what we get.
My only wish is volume 2 comes in March/ April... it will be really annoying to have to wait any longer to complete the season because no -one wants to watch half the season and wait ages for the next half...especially not with a show like this where continuing stories are the lifeblood of it as opposed to other shows that contain stories in one episode.
i see dynasty had a gap of august to mid october last year for season 3 volumes 1 and 2 so my guess is we will see volume 2 around late april early may 09... they can't say that yet of course because it would defeat the purpose of splitting the season on dvd... but the only reason it will be delayed is if people don't buy it and they abandon the series once and for all, so if your a fan, cmon and buy it to keep the series being released....
i genuinely don't see this half season as poor value and i have just pre-ordered my copy now.
THE SEASON:
As for the show itself, season 5 was great for me... a lot of changes occurred during the season, particularly cast changes but the show still didn't lose it's momentum, it's ability to shock, it's strong plots and stories and characters that we cared about... at least not until the finale of the season ... season 6 never took off, the show couldn't recover from the mass exodus by the end of season 5. So, this was it really, the last enjoyable season, in years 6 and 7, fans didn't really connect with the new characters or care about them..
But this is a very satisfying season, because the characters we all knew and loved bowed out with strong stories.
There was Kimmy's cancer battle and battle to hold onto Michael's affections once Megan and him became serious,
Sydney finally got to be her own person this year... and not just Michael's lapdog....in season 4, she became nothing but a comical extra to other people's plots.. this year she found love, first with Carter and then with Craig... and wasn't the finale build-up great... Syd taking on Amanda and putting her and D&D out of business!
Alison and Jake seemed to settle down and were ready to start a family, but Alison got cold feet in the end and ruined it all....
Jane, well jane just lost it for the first part of this season! It was nice to see her get back that nasty streak we saw in her early in season 4 before Richard wore her down... I hated Jane the victim, so I was rooting for her crazy stalking of jake and alsion! Plus, it was nice to have a nut in action since Kimmy was mellowed out this year!
Other pluses this year..
Amanda got her spine back, season 4 and the parezi brothers saga made her such a victim too. She lost her edge... But this year, she was back to her bitchy self trying to assume control of d&d.
Taylor was a nice addition to the cast. Her devotion to Peter by the end of the season was shocking, hitting herself with a door to make him think he was abusing her! Genius, just what Kimmy would have done!
Of course, we did get lots of duds/ copies in the cast this year in anticipation of the exodus: kyle was a copy of jake (the macho hothead stereotype), Sam was the new Alison (starting off a nice girl), Jennifer was meant to be the new Syd (fat chance!) Taylor was the new Kimmy etc.
Somehow, the copying of characters didn't really effect the show this year... it was only when the characters we loved had gone in season 6 that it was clear the producers had made big mistakes in allowing so many central character's leave although most had run their course truthfully.
Melrose Place - The Fourth Season
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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 22
Average rating: 4.5 of 5
Melrose Place 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 1 people found this review helpful.
Love it. Everything I expected from Amazon. No flaws. Would highly recommend if your a fan.
Excellent 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 1 people found this review helpful.
Melrose Place was the best show on television up there with Sex and the City. I loved it, and I miss it. The Fourth season kept me in suspense, and I am now waiting for the next season. I love this show, and wish it would come back with the same cast and writers.
action 4 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.
More action. Hate theme song but rest of music was great. Packaging on first three sets were so much better. Should stick to what works.
Melrose Place Season 4 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.
More action and drama then season 3... very entertaining. Stayed up late most nights watching till I finished the season.
Perfect 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.
Delivery was very quick, a few business days.
Product was delivered in perfect condition.
Editorial Review:
Studio: Paramount Home Video Release Date: 04/15/2008 Rating: Nr
Melrose Place - The Second Season
Amazon Price: $22.99List Price: Usually ships in 24 hours By: Paramount - Model: PARD038294D Amazon Marketplace: 34 new & used starting at $18.99 |
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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 19
Average rating: 4.5 of 5
Melrose Place - Season 2 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.
I wish the seasons would come out sooner. We have already watched the whole Season 2. Thanks, Bonnye
Great DVD - Need Subtitles and Setup Options 3 out of 5 stars.
0 of 1 people found this review helpful.
i recently got both seasons available (1 & 2) and they should have put a little more work on the menu. They almost didn't have any menus, no setup options. I bought it and didn't realize that most of the chapters didn't even have english subtitles. I would have like to have it subtitled in spanish, but at least in english on all chapters! great dvd though. should have been better.
horrendous video quality ruins season 2 3 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.
Season 2, though enticing in its twists and turns, is painful to watch owing to its wretched picture quality. Even on a Sony Bravia 32" by way of a blue-ray player(blue ray improves the picture of even regular DVD's by 2.5 times) there is visible fuzz on the screen. I cannot imaging watching this on a regualar TV and a standard DVD player. It's laughable how bad the characters look thanks to an abysmal video transfer. CBS needs to publish Melrose Place on blue-ray to make the show watchable, lest fans cringe like Michael when he learned Kimberly was "dead."
I realize all older shows leave something to be desired in terms of picture quality, but this is a mess! Here's hoping the DVD sets of Season 3 or 4 are better.
Editorial Review:
Studio: Paramount Home Video Release Date: 05/20/2008
Melrose Place - The Third Season
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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 14
Average rating: 4.5 of 5
Oh boy how I wish I could have seen Melrose Place 3rd Season! 1 out of 5 stars.
2 of 6 people found this review helpful.
I have been trying to purchase Melrose Place 3rd season since December 2007! I have been charged twice in my credit card - and still no product delivered! Right address and everything, and still no Melrose Place 3rd Season! I have written Amazon several times, explaining that my orders were duplicated (yes, I have been charged for two Melrose Place 3rd season DVD's and still have not received the product - talk about consumer rights!)
I even telephoned early February and talked to Customer Service and was promised to have the matters resolved and to this day - February 09, nothing happened... so I am sorry my review cannot happen even having I paid (several times) for my order, that to this date, did not arrive...
Sorry!!!
Ana Elisa Rocha
Unhappy Customer
Melrose place at its best 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.
When i first saw season one appearing in shops in november 06, i was tempted to buy it to recall one of my fave shows growing up. But i decided not to, remembering that season one was terrible- melrose hadn't found it's feet and was too earnest back in season one. Then, when i saw season two, i picked it up, i loved watching the show all over again and seeing how it transformed itself from serious issue driven storylines to downright outrageous stories. I'm here in ireland and i have been waiting for season three since last november but still no sign, i bit the bullet and imported from US recently and this has been highly addictive stuff. This is the Melrose i remember- it was so outrageous and enjoyable and watching now -it still is. Season three really is the start of melrose at it's consistent best. season 4 and 5 continue to match the standard set here. I just loved watching this season. sydney joining the cult, kimberly going nuts again!, Amanda's cancer fight, jo's baby drama, jane being fooled by the sleazy Chris, the introduction of the spoilt Brooke, alison falling of the wagon.
Watching this reminds of how good this show was even though it was never cool to admit it. I watched three to four episodes every chance i could, it's so addictive.
watching also made me think how modern US drama's are not a patch on the old ones. I mean Melrose moved at break neck speed, if u missed an episode , u really had missed out, someone could have married and divorced in two weeks on this show. Look at Lost and desperate Housewives now, not a patch on this, they take themselves way too seriously when in fact they are very tiresome, i mean the amount of actual plot development in these shows per episode is ridiculous. An hour of Housewives for instance is padded with so called comedy routines with just a mere tease of plot development meeant to whet your appetite. The writers should look back to Melrose, it was so engaging, never a dull moment and the stories went enjoyably fast.
Enjoy this pure treat of telly goodness
Editorial Review:
Studio: Paramount Home Video Release Date: 11/13/2007
Melrose Place - The Complete First Season
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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 36
Average rating: 4.5 of 5
Don't tell me I can't talk about Brooke now 5 out of 5 stars.
9 of 10 people found this review helpful.
"Melrose Place" is pure '90s excitement! Do you remember this super-cool 90210 spin-off? I sure do. I loved this show. Although, like many fans I didn't start watching until the mid-second season. When I used to watch repeats of the first season I never really enjoyed it. Because it was so different from the rest of the series (it's sorta like the difference between the first season of "The Facts of Life" compared to the rest of that series.) There were different characters and the stories were nowhere near over-the-top. There was no trashy sex or backstabbing. Although, now when I watch the first season I have a whole new fondness for this show. It's almost like looking at baby pictures of an old friend. She may have looked like an "ugly duckling" but I know that she's gonna turn out to be a knock-out!
I like to think of the first season of "Melrose" more as 3 mini-seasons. Because the entire first season is rather diverse and unique. I suppose the producers and writers (not to mention the actors and actresses) were still trying to find their way (i. e. make the show a hit,) which made them retool it more than once during that first faithful season. Let's see... There's the Sandy Era (Amy Locane,) which is the shortest of all season one's mini-seasons. This only lasted 14 eps (technically, 12 since the pilot is actually 1 ep and Sandy wasn't on the ep prior to her last one.) Then there's The Jo Reynolds (Daphne Zuniga) Era, which picks up right after Sandy leaves for NY (actually, 1 ep later.) The Jo Reynolds Era takes us through the end of '92 and the beginning of '93 which is also the start of the third and final season 1 mini-season. Then God said, "let there be Heather" and a "special Guest Star" was born! Of course, I'm talking about Amanda Woodward (Heather Locklear) who totally assisted in transforming season 1 into it's final incarnation, The Amanda Era!
The Sandy Era was when we got introduced to the entire cast (or should I say residents?) of 4616 Melrose Place. There was Billy Campbell (Andrew Shue) and Allison Parker (Courtney Thorne-Smith,) the building's sweet and sometimes homely roommates. Dr. Michael (Thomas Calabro) and Jane Mancini (Josie Bissett) were almost like the parents of the apartment. They were like an old married couple that everyone came to for help or advice; after all they were married for almost a whole 2 years! There was the resident hearthrob and cool loner, Jake Hanson (Grant Show.) As you may recall, Jake parlayed his tie-in role on "90210" first. In the first few eps of "Melrose" Jake could often be seen shooing away Kelly Taylor (Jenny Garth.) Then there was Matt Fielding (Doug Savant,) who really didn't have much to say or do during season one. Although this was one of the first times that an (openly) g-a-y character ever had a recurring role on an American coast-to-coast series. The only thing unbelievable about the character of Matt was his sense of style. Wouldn't you think a g-a-y man living in West Hollywood would understand the importance of fashion and dressing well a little better? (It makes me gag to think that poor Matt wore that hideous sandal-sock combo more than once.) Rhonda Blair (Vanessa Williams, not the Miss America) was the sexy, outspoken resident in this trendy building. During The Sandy Era her character was very well developed and we got to know Rhonda rather well; she was a sweet and sexy fitness instructor (teaching "cardio funk.") And, finally completing The Sandy Era was none other than Sandy Louise Harling (Amy Locane.) Sandy we hardly knew ya! Sanda is sorta like the Lana Shields of "Melrose Place" because she seemed so sexy, yet rather sexually frusterated. Sandy was an aspiring actress, who got her "big break" and left 4616 for the bright lights of the Big Apple to star on "Forever & Tomorrow." My favorite episode with Sandy is "Lonely Hearts." This is the one when she gets stalked. I always thought that Sandy and Jake would have made a great couple, and they did date, but nothing ever came of it. And, before we got a good chance to get to know her she was gone! Halfway through The Sandy Era, it also seemed that this mini-season was slightly retooled. Did you notice how the stories started to get more serious, however insignificant; Jane's pregnancy, Alison's married lover and Billy's attack.
The Jo Reynolds Era is when the series was completely retooled. Gone were the pool parties, barbecues, friendly chats in the laundry room, group parties and fun-loving get-togethers. The arrival of Jo brought a whole new concept to this soapy drama. The eps got more grittier and serious. I also enjoyed Jo because she was like a breath of fresh air. Jo was very beautiful and always managed to add a bit of common sense to the storylines. In the very beginning (for her first and maybe even second ep,) she had somewhat of a rough exterior. But that was just a facade because Jo was petrified of letting people into her life. Once I got to know Jo, I found a new resident at this complex that was just as likeable (if not more,) than all the others! During this mini-season, we learn that Jake has an estranged son. And another aspect that I noticed was that Rhonda was now being fazed out. Did you notice that Rhonda almost only exclusively had dialogue with Matt or with Terrence Haggard (John Marshall Jones,) who was her future hubby? Also during The Jo Reynolds Era we got to meet some more supporting/recurring cast members. Dr. Kimberly Shaw's (Marcia Cross) character was more developed. You may remember that she actaully spent X-Mas with the other tenants at "Melrose!" And we got to meet Jane's pesky little sister, Sydney Andrews (Laura Leighton.) Although, not much was really learned about Syd during The Jo Reynolds Era, except for the fact that she was obviously a bottle redhead during season 2!
The Amanda Season was the final and very best mini-season of "Melrose's" season 1 because the storylines got so much deeper and more serious. The actors were also much more polished and they seemed more confident. As it's been said many times before, Amanda Woodward was what "Melrose" was all about! She really helped make this show! During this era, we saw a rather entertaining love-triangle develop between Billy, Alison and Amanda. Of course that was after Alison left her on-again/off-again lover, Keith Gray (William R. Moses.) (Keith is actually introduced to Alison during The Sandy Era, but the most interesting eps with him are during The Amanda Era.) Alison even quit her job and moved to Seattle to be with Keith! I loved it when Amanda said to Alison, "and when it was obvious that Billy wasn't going to run to Seattle to chase after you you came back!" During this time, the character of Lucy Cabot (Deborah Adair) was also more prominently seen. Yes, Lucy was the typical cliche of the "modern American professional lady" but she also showed a lot of compassion to Alison. During this era, Jake and Jo have an AIDS scare when one of Jake's former lovers contracts the virus. We also got to see another transformation during The Amanda Season. This was when Jane and Michael's marriage started to unravel. It was also around this time that Michael turned into the sneaky snake that he was known for in following seasons. Of course Michael carried on an illicit affair with Kimberly. And when Alison confronted him (she caught the 2 kissing at the hospital,) he arragantly said to Jane, "this is just malicious gossip." By the way, am I the only one who thought Michael was much more sexier when he was nice? I never found him attractive in following seasons because he just came off as such a dirty cheat.
Everyone always talks about Billy and how he was such a dreamboat. I tend to disagree. I was never crazy about Billy. To me, he seemed like a big kid who was still somewhat immature. My "Melrose" dreamboat was Jake. Jake was the perfect man because he was the perfect balance of sweet and tough. Remember how he cared for Matt and took him to the hospital during the "Dreams Come True" ep; I loved it when the cop assumed that Jake was Matt's lover and Jake said, "he's not my lover" because Jake would have done this for anyone.
By the way, look for Joyce Hyser in the "Responsibly Yours" ep. In this show she played Dawn Bonds, Billy's new girlfriend; a single mother who was tying to ignite her stand-up comedy career. Of course all children of the '80s remember Joyce Hyser as Terry in Just One of the Guys!
Another season 1 character who I enjoyed was Joan Campbell (Salome Jens.) Even though Mrs. Campbell (Billy's mom) was hardly seen, she always managed to make a big splash. She almost reminded of Bea Arthur a little. And Joan absolutely loved Alison. Seeing Joan on season 1 always reminds me of Billy's second marriage to Samantha Reilly (Brooke Langton.) (I never could stand Billy's second wife, I probably hated her the most out of all the "Melrose" girls.) Anywho, during the reception, Joan had a little too much to drink (after all, it's a party, right!) and the old thing starts shooting her mouth off to Samantha telling her about Alison and how much she always liked her. Then Joan brings up Billy's first wife, Brooke (played by none other than Kristen Davis whom I love!!) which caused Samantha to really pout. And Joan said to Samantha in her husky Greta Garbo voice, "don't tell me I can't talk about Brooke now."
"Melrose Place" really was the very best nighttime soap. In my humble opinion it was way better than "Dynasty" and even the granddaddy of all nighttime soaps, "Dallas" because all the stories and characters were always so captivating (even during season 1!) If you want to see how it all began, I recommend getting season 1, you won't be disappointed! ...Remember, you are what you watch!
Editorial Review:
Studio: Paramount Home Video Release Date: 05/20/2008
Melrose Place - Three Season Pack
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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 3
Average rating: 4.5 of 5
Get swept away with Melrose, again... 5 out of 5 stars.
7 of 7 people found this review helpful.
Melrose was the hottest nighttime soap of the 90's. It just kept getting better and better and more outrageous and over-the-top with each passing season. Remember, you are what you watch :-)
Season One Eps w/ original air dates:
Pilot 7/8/1992
Friends and Lovers 7/15/1992
Lost and Found 7/22/1992
For Love or Money 7/29/1992
Leap of Faith 8/5/1992
Second Chances 8/12/1992
My Way 8/19/1992
Lonely Hearts 9/2/1992
Responsibly Yours 9/9/1992
Burned 9/16/1992
A Promise Broken 9/30/1992
Polluted Affairs 10/21/1992
Dreams Come True 10/28/1992
Drawing the Line 11/4/1992
House of God 11/11/1992
The Whole Truth 11/18/1992
Jake vs. Jake 11/25/1992
A Melrose Place Christmas 12/16/1992
Single White Sister 1/6/1993
Peanut Butter and Jealousy 1/13/1993
Picture Imperfect 1/27/1993
Three's a Crowd 2/3/1993
My New Partner 2/10/1993
Bye Bye Billy 2/17/1993
Irreconcilable Similarites 3/3/1993
End Game 3/24/1993
The Test 3/31/1993
Pushing Boundaries 4/7/1993
Pas de Trois 4/21/1993
Carpe Diem 4/28/1993
State of Need 5/12/1993
Suspicious Minds 5/26/1993
Season Two Eps w/ original air dates:
Much Ado About Everything 9/8/1993
A Long Night's Journey 9/15/1993
Revenge 9/22/1993
Fire Power 9/29/1993
Of Bikes and Men 10/6/1993
Hot and Bothered 10/13/1993
Flirting With Disaster 10/20/1993
No Bed of Roses 10/27/1993
Married to It 11/3/1993
The Tangled Web 11/10/1993
Collision Course 11/17/1993
Cold Turkey 11/24/1993
Duet for One 12/1/1993
Strange Bedfellows 12/15/1993
Under the Mistletoe 12/22/1993
Reunion Blues 1/5/1994
Michael's Game 1/12/1994
Arousing Suspicions 1/26/1994
The Young Men and the Sea 2/2/1994
Parting Glances 2/9/1994
Swept Away 2/16/1994
With This Ball and Chain 2/23/1994
Otherwise Engaged 3/2/1994
Love, Mancini-Style 3/16/1994
The Two Mrs. Mancinis 3/23/1994
In Bed With the Enemy 4/6/1994
Psycho Therapy 4/20/1994
The Bitch Is Back 4/27/1994
Imperfect Strangers 5/4/1994
Devil With the G-String On 5/11/1994
Till Death Do Us Part (1) 5/18/1994
Till Death Do Us Part (2) 5/18/1994
Season Three Eps w/ original air dates, and descriptions:
I Am Curious Melrose 9/12/1994
Michael survives the hit and run. Meanwhile Billy finds Alison hiding out with Meredith.
It's a Bad World After All 9/19/1994
An overprotective Kimberly brings Michael home from the hospital. Mr. Andrews and Jane have Sydney committed.
In-Laws and Outlaws 9/26/1994
Chris (Jane's letchy Aussie boyfriend) tells her that Michael must sign off on their new business arrangement. Sydney cops a plea so she can fly out of the crazy hospital.
Grand Delusions 10/3/1994
Sydney starts buzzing around Michael (he's still claming amnesia) claiming she's "Miranda."
Nonsexual Healing 10/10/1994
Everyone's worried when they find out that Jake's boat, "The Pretty Lady" exploded.
No Strings Attached 10/17/1994
Jake leaves town and goes in search of his real father. On the home front, Alison gets a new blonde secretary that can't keep her eyes off Billy.
The Cook, the Creep, His Lover and Her Sister 10/24/1994
Jake buys "Shooters" with the money he gets from the FBI. Meanwhile, Chris makes a filthy pass at Sydney then brags to Jake about what he wants to do to her.
Love Reeks 10/31/1994
Jake is Sydney's night in shining armor.
Dr. Jeckyl Saves His Hide 11/7/1994
Jake convinces Sydney to stick around. Alison claims she's fine with Billy and her old school chum dating although she starts seeing the bottom of an empty vodka bottle more and more.
And Justice for None 11/14/1994
Jo's custody battle (for her unborn baby with Reed) begins. Alison is her star witness but on the eve of her testimony she gets drunk with Zack (her scummy new boyfriend.)
The Days of Wine and Vodka 11/21/1994
Zack convinces Alison to buy a sporty car and bail on work. Sydney decides to sleep with Chris because she is convinced that Jake will suffer if she doesn't. Meanwhile, Kimberly invites Jo over for Thanksgiving hoping that she can get her baby.
The Doctor That Rocks the Cradle 11/28/1994
Alison is arrested for drunk driving. When Bruce hears that Amanda leaked info he fires her. Kimberly induces Jo's labor, delivers the baby, dummies up hospital records, and tells the Carters' lawyer that Jo's baby was stillborn. After the coast is clear Jo comes for her baby and this horrible witch (Kimberly, who else?) refuses to give up Jo's newborn baby because she wants to keep him and raise him as her own! Chris leaves town with Sydney and takes Jane's cash.
Just Say No 12/5/1994
Bruce learns that D&D has been purchased courtesy of a hostage take-over by Amanda and Peter (her latest lover.) Bruce then hangs himself inside Amanda's office. Jo is determined to prove that her baby is alive. Michael, Jane and Jake go to Las Vegas to get an otherwise happy kidnapped victim, Sydney.
Sex, Drugs and Rockin' the Cradle 12/12/1994
In rehab Alison meets an NFL star. Even after Michael finds out that "Baby Michael" is Jo's baby he refuses to give him up! After learning that Syd slept with Chris, Jake breaks off their relationship.
Holiday on Ice 12/19/1994
Amanda shows some Christmas cheer and visits Bruce's children giving them a generous cash gift; she also goes to Alison's rehab center to let her know that her job is safe at D&D. After Peter hears that Michael and Kimberly are holding Jo's baby he orders Michael to return little Austin to his mother; Kimberly is beyond enraged. However, she composes herself long enough to let the Carters know that their grandson is very much alive!
Bye Baby 1/2/1995
Catlin Mills comes to D&D; one of Peter's lovers who he tries to pass off as an efficiency expert. Jo's babysitter Emily steals baby Austin! Poor Jo had her baby kidnapped twice and he isn't even a month old!
Love Thy Neighbor: The Baddest and the Best of Melrose Place 1/9/1995
A retrospective hosted by Daphne Zuniga (Jo Beth Reynolds.)
They Shoot Mothers, Don't They? (1) 1/16/1995
Jo confronts Kimberly to find out where Austin is and then gives this kook a much-deserved punch in the face! After she finds out where Austin is, Jo convinces Jake to help her get her baby back. Meanwhile, Peter and Caitlin scheme to get Amanda out of D&D.
They Shoot Mothers, Don't They? (2) 1/16/1995
When Mr. Carter finds Jo outside his cabin he shoots to kill. Back in LA an emergency custody hearing is conducted and the judge decides that Austin should be given up for adoption. Peter tries to put Amanda under the knife for some bogus surgery but Michael saves her in just enough time. Amanda also reaches the D&D board to inform them and Caitlin is given her walking papers.
Another Perfect Day in Hell 1/23/1995
Sydney's trampy new roommate, Ricki vandalizes Jake's bar. Mousy Meredith (Alison's sister) shows her face and admits she has never been with a man, then tries to seduce Billy. Amanda is diagnosed with Hodgkin's Disease.
Boxing Sydney 2/6/1995
Amanda and Michael discuss her cancer treatment. Sydney hits the road with Ricki for a cult-like retreat. Matt's cop friend threatens Kimberly when he learns that she had him attacked (so Matt wouldn't be able to submit her psychological evaluation.) Sydney is held captive by Martin and his followers when they hear she wants to leave.
St. Valentine's Day Massacre 2/13/1995
Martin lets Syd out of the pit and convinces her to stay. Jake and Jane make the long trip to the remote location of the retreat, twice before they're able to get Sydney to come with them! Kimberly is getting more and more jealous when she learns of Michael's role as Amanda's attending doctor.
Breakfast at Tiffany's, Dinner at Eight 2/20/1995
Amanda and Michael fly to New York to see a specialist. Meanwhile, Kimberly places an extremely malicious call to Amanda falsely telling her that her condition is terminal.
And the Winner Is... 2/27/1995
Kimberly catches Amanda and Michael together in a hot tub and threatens to electrocute them. Sneaky and conniving Brooke makes her "Melrose" debut convincing Alison to throw her hat in the competition. Alison upstages Amanda at the Century Awards.
Love and Death 101 3/13/1995
The board appoints Alison president of D&D. Amanda is furious and Michael ships Kimberly out of town while he invites Amanda to come stay with him. Brookes gets a temporary job at D&D.
To Live and Die in Malibu 3/20/1995
Kimberly comes home early only to discover that Goldilocks has been sleeping in her bed. She finds out about the insurance money (from the car accident) and tells Michael he can have all of it only if he gives up Amanda. Michael accepts Kimberly's offer but later files for divorce. Brooke gets a full-time job at D&D. Meanwhile Jess (Jake's older brother) comes to town.
All About Brooke 4/3/1995
Kimberly attempts suicide and Michael is forced to call an ambulance when Syd shows up at the beach house unannounced. Sydney finds Kimberly's suicide note and manages to blackmail both Kimberly and Michael into giving her $50,000 (each!) Brooke tells Billy that she has broken off her engagement and then aggressively starts pursuing him.
Melrose Impossible 4/10/1995
Kimberly goes to a special camp to work on her defensive skills. After she is in remission Amanda has a lot of trouble shooing Michael away. Billy hops in the sack with Brooke; tired of Alison's bossiness.
Hose by Any Other Name 5/1/1995
Amanda hits Michael with a restraining order and she and Brooke finally get rid of Alison from D&D. Kimberly returns from her camp a new women.
Kiss Kiss Bang Bang 5/8/1995
Jake kicks Jess out after Jess taunts him over Jo. Jess hires a hit man to shoot Jake. Brooke gets Haley to ship Alison off to Hong Kong so that she'll be out of her way so Brooke can sink her fangs into Billy. Kimberly and Amanda join forces to rid themselves of Michael. "I always thought you were the kook," Amanda confesses to Kimberly apologetically; if only she knew!
Framing of the Shrews 5/15/1995
Jake believes that Jess is behind his shooting. Brooke types of a cold letter to give to Billy from Alison, then she stands in her way when Alison tries to reach Billy (from Hong Kong.) Billy very foolishly proposes to Brooke. Kimberly tries to convince Amanda and everyone that Michael is stalking her (even though she is actually the one who is terrorizing Amanda, because she wants to frame Michael and get Amanda on her side.) And in all her dementia she even has the audaciousness to call the police on Michael as she stages a fake attack at the beach house!
The Big Bang Theory (1) 5/22/1995
Dr. Burns returns with a very cute shaggy blonde haircut and a more sensitive outlook. He bails Michael out of jail and starts seeing Kimberly; all so he can use both of them to get his license back from the medical review committee. Kooky Kimberly starts seeing a demon named "Henry" (in her head) that haunts her and tells her that she must kill everyone (specifically: Michael, Syd, Amanda, kind-hearted Matt, and eventually even Peter.) Alison races back to LA so she can attempt to stop Billy from marrying that witch, Brooke. Jane aggressively goes after Richard (a fashion designer working for the well-known MacKenzie Hart.)
The Big Bang (2) 5/22/1995
Alison makes it to the wedding but Billy refuses to listen to her and tells her that if she can't support him she must "go." Spoiled Brooke calls poor Alison an "obsessed alcoholic" and has her security boys escort her off the premises. Jess beats poor Jo when she tells him it's too soon to get engaged. Meanwhile, Kimberly's nutty plan of blowing up the building is in full-swing. Kimberly manages to get Syd tied up in the laundry room and tells her that she'll burn her face the color of her hair unless she calls Michael and convinces him to come to the building. Kimberly also sends Peter a fake note (claiming it's from Amanda) luring him to the courtyard. Alison is in a drunken stupor in her apartment after being shot down at Billy's wedding in front of everyone (by the way, it always perplexed me, how exactly did Alison get her apartment back considering that Amanda hates her and she was officially moved out when she left for Hong Kong...?) Billy and Brooke come back to get their HI tickets. Amanda and Jake find Jo just as Peter sees them in the courtyard; Jake's just about to show Peter out when he finds Jo begging for help at the top of the steps. Jake (the eternal knight in shining armor that he always is!) goes after Jess. Jane and Richard are in their apartment (doing who knows what) when MacKenzie shows her 50-something face, yelling at Jane. Michael unties Sydney and the two try to warn everyone to get out of the building because Kimberly has the entire placed rigged with bombs. Everyone manages to at least make it to the courtyard (except for Alison) for a shocking confession... Suddenly, Kimberly pops out of nowhere and says: WAIT... ...IT'S NOT WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE... IT'S WORSE.
And here's all the Season Three usual suspects:
Alison Parker (Courtney Thorne-Smith)
Jo Reynolds (Daphne Zuniga)
Amanda Woodward (Heather Locklear)
Jane Mancini (Josie Bissett)
Jake Hanson (Grant Show)
Dr. Michael Mancini (Thomas Calabro)
Billy Campbell (Andrew Shue)
Dr. Peter Burns (Jack Wagner)
Sydney Andrews (Laura Leighton)
Dr. Kimberly Shaw (Marcia Cross)
Henry/Kimberly's Demon (Zitto Kazann)
Brooke Armstrong Campbell (Kristin Davis)
Matt Fielding (Doug Savant)
Editorial Review:
A nighttime soap opera about the lives, careers, trials and tribulations of a group of young people living in an apartment building in the trendy neighborhood of Melrose Place. The show was a spin off of Beverly Hills 90210 and starred Heather Locklear as the scheming Amanda Woodward, head of her own advertising agency and owner of the apartment building.
MELROSE PLACE: COMPLETE FIRST SEASON (8PC) / (DOL) - MELROSE PLACE: COMPLETE FIRST SEASON (8PC) / (DOL)
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The Good, the Bad & the Beautiful Pack (Beverly Hills, 90210 - The Complete First Season / Melrose Place - The Complete First Season)
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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 7
Average rating: 5.0 of 5
Put "Models" on DVD, next!! 5 out of 5 stars.
3 of 5 people found this review helpful.
"Melrose" & "90210" were the best shows of the '90s! I was in love with both shows. If you're not too familar with either series, "90210" starts out much better (although, after season 4, it's all downhill) because during the first season the stories can capture the viewer quickly. "Melrose" starts out much slower and is nowhere near as outrageous as later seasons. (I would say that "Melrose" peaked in either season 3 or season 4.)
Maybe one of these days they'll put "Models" on DVD. Do you remember this "Melrose" spin-off? I loved it almost as much as "90210" and "Melrose." Linda Gray played the "Amanda charater," Hilary Michaels; an owner of a modeling agency who had to put up with all the b itchy models, not to mention the evils of Grayson Louder (Emma Samms.) And, all the men on this show were totally hot and totally wordless and witless. Or, maybe SoapNet can start rerunning it again on the weekends? I'd tune in for that!
I was insanely crazy about "90210." This was my all-time favorite show as a tween. Because "90210" really was the very first American TV show that actually spoke to kids and had real issues that everyone could relate to. During the first season we got to meet the entire gang...
Most of the eps either revolved around Brandon (Jason Priestely,) or someone else in the Walsh House. Didn't it almost seem like Brandon had a new girl every other week? Cindy (Carol Potter) and Jim Walsh (James Eckhouse) were such cool parents. I often wished that my parents were as understanding as they were, especially Mrs. Walsh. (I suppose that's what TV writers do best; make the parents look perfect?) As a kid, my favorite character was always Brenda Walsh (played by none other than the original Britney Spears ~ Shannen Doherty.) Brenda was always so forthright and honest about her feelings. Some fans have even said that Brenda was "mean." I tend to disagree. I think she was just a girl who knew exactly what she wanted and wasn't afraid to say it. But as an adult, watching this set, I have an entirely new fondness for Brandon. He was such a kind-hearted young man, and always so willing to go out of his way for others and help any way he could. Brandon was a total mensch. And wasn't he so cute, too? I loved when he smiled because he had the most adorable dimples.
Throughout the very beginning of season 1, Kelly Taylor (Jenny Garth) and Donna Martin (Tori Spelling, of course) were portrayed as brain-dead snobs. Donna, especially, came off as such a superficial air-head. But after you scratched the surface a little and got to know them you saw a couple of very sweet girls who were really no different from any other American teenagers.
I always enjoyed Dylan McKay (Luke Perry) and Steve Sanders (Ian Ziering.) Dylan was the quiet loner who was often the voice of reason. He's a lot like Jake Hanson . Like Donna and Kelly, at first Steve came off as very superficial and incredibly spoiled. But once I got to know him I saw a very sensitive young man. I love the ep during season 1, when Steve's Corvette was stolen by those 2 girls and he starts crying and Brandon tries to make him feel better.
Rounding out the cast were the 3 egg-heads, Andrea Zuckerman (Gabrielle Carteris,) David Silver (Brian Green, FKA Brian Austin Green) and the rarely-seen Scott Scanlon (Douglas Emerson.) Out of these 3, Andrea was the only one who was welcomed into the gang during season 1. I was never crazy about her though because she always seemed so needy and a touch on the greedy side. Andrea had somewhat of a chip on her shoulder because she was poor and the rest of the kids weren't. Over the years, David did get cool, but in season 1 he was just a lowly freshman that no one else wanted to hang around with. Except for his bff, Scott. BTW, there's currently a "where are they now" article on AOL which states that Douglas Emerson quit "90210" to go to college in the 2nd season. That is totally false! He was fired from the show when producers realized that his character was about as intriguing as a bag of wet hair.
Here's all the eps from season one:
Class of Beverly Hills
The Walsh's get used to life in Beverly Hills. In syndication, this ep airs in 2 parts. Note: the original title of the series was "Class Beverly Hills."
The Green Room
Brandon meets a new girl at the beach. Note: this is the first ep with Dylan.
Every Dream Has Its Price (Tag)
Brenda doesn't feel like one of the girls while shopping with them.
The First Time
Sheryl, Brandon's girlfriend comes for a visit and stays overnight with him. See what I mean about having cool parents?
One on One
Brandon and Andrea think there is a conspiracy among school officials when they see a student who doesn't appear to be a resident of Beverly Hills.
Higher Education
Brandon's American History teacher grades the class by an unreasonable curve.
Perfect Mom
Brenda really likes Kelly's mom, Jackie (Ann Gillespie.) But she thinks differently of her when it's revealed that Jackie's just a negligent addict.
The 17-Year Itch
Mr. and Mrs. Walsh celebrate their 17th wedding anniversary.
The Gentle Art of Listening
Brenda and Andrea volunteer at a teen crisis hotline. The girls both try to help a student when it is revealed that she is getting r-a-p-e-d by some of the football team.
Isn't It Romantic?
Brenda catches Dylan taking a shower in her bathroom. Did I say how cool Jim and Cindy are?
B.Y.O.B.
Brandon and Brenda have a party when their parents are away and poor Brandon gets arrested for drunk driving.
One Man and a Baby
Brandon befriends Melissa, a senior with a baby boy who has dreams of going to college.
Slumber Party
This is one of my very favorite eps! The girls have a slumber party. Kelly brings along this total b itch, Amanda (Michele Abrams.) I love it when Bren says to her, "you've been acting like a total b itch since you got here." David and Scott swing by the Walsh home to spy on the girls. Steve and Brandon have a hot evening with a couple of chicks; that is, until Steve's Vette is stolen.
East Side Story
Jim and Cindy allow their maid's friend, Carla to use their address so she can attend West Beverly. But there is more to the story than meets the eye. And Brandon (the little detective that he always was, in season 1,) sets out to find out the truth about Carla.
A Fling in Palm Springs
Everyone except for Brandon and Andrea goes to Palm Springs. Dylan and Brenda get in a big fight.
Fame Is Where You Find It
Brandon gets a part on a popular TV show. He even starts dating the star of the show, Lydia Leeds (Marcy Kaplan.)
Stand (Up) and Deliver
This is another favorite of mine. Brandon decides to run for class president with Andrea as his campaign advisor. Things get out of hand when Kelly Taylor takes over. Meanwhile, Bren housesits for an older friend and learns that being on her own may not be all it's cracked up to be.
It's Only a Test
The gang takes their S.A.T.'s. Brenda finds a lump in her chest.
April Is the Cruelest Month
Brandon interviews Roger (Matthew Perry,) an all-star student, for the school paper and learns some troubling details about him.
Spring Training
This is another favorite of mine because it shows how sweet Bran was. He coaches a Beverly Hills peewee baseball team and learns how competitive and stuck-up some of the parents can be.
Spring Dance
The gang all go to "The Spring Fling" and Kelly becomes "Spring Princess." Meanwhile, Bren and Dylan slip off to a hotel room.
Home Again
The Walsh's may have to go back to MN because Jim is faced with a transfer. Andrea decides to sleep with Brandon as a going away gift. Everything seems to be back to normal when Jim decides not to move back. But at their party at The Pit, Bren reveals to Dylan that she missed her period!
"90210" was on for 10 years, and like many fans, I stopped watching way before that. Unfortunately, after Shannen Doherty left the series it was nowhere near as entertaining. (It's almost like what happened to Three's Company after Suzanne Somers was fired.) Because it just wasn't the same without Brenda. Should they have kept Shannen? Many of the cast members have stated that she was incredibly difficult to work with. Shannen was also famous for starting viscous cat-fights with the other girls on the show. She absolutely despised Gabrielle Carteris with a passion and would verbally berate her any chance she got. I think it was Ian Ziering who went on Arsenio (right around the time she was fired) and had a few choice words to say about her. The show still went on for 6 seasons without Shannen (I think I stopped watching by end of season 6/beginning of season 7) but it was never the same. And, none of the seasons were as captivating or groundbreaking as season 1 always was!
"Melrose Place" is pure '90s excitement! Do you remember this super-cool 90210 spin-off? I sure do. I loved this show. Although, like many fans I didn't start watching until the mid-second season. When I used to watch repeats of the first season I never really enjoyed it. Because it was so different from the rest of the series (it's sorta like the difference between the first season of "The Facts of Life" compared to the rest of that series.) There were different characters and the stories were nowhere near over-the-top. There was no trashy sex or backstabbing. Although, now when I watch the first season I have a whole new fondness for this show. It's almost like looking at baby pictures of an old friend. She may have looked like an "ugly duckling" but I know that she's gonna turn out to be a knock-out!
I like to think of the first season of "Melrose" more as 3 mini-seasons. Because the entire first season is rather diverse and unique. I suppose the producers and writers (not to mention the actors and actresses) were still trying to find their way (i. e. make the show a hit,) which made them retool it more than once during that first faithful season. Let's see... There's the Sandy Era (Amy Locane,) which is the shortest of all season one's mini-seasons. This only lasted 14 eps (technically, 12 since the pilot is actually 1 ep and Sandy wasn't on the ep prior to her last one.) Then there's The Jo Reynolds (Daphne Zuniga) Era, which picks up right after Sandy leaves for NY (actually, 1 ep later.) The Jo Reynolds Era takes us through the end of '92 and the beginning of '93 which is also the start of the third and final season 1 mini-season. Then God said, "let there be Heather" and a "special Guest Star" was born! Of course, I'm talking about Amanda Woodward (Heather Locklear) who totally assisted in transforming season 1 into it's final incarnation, The Amanda Era!
The Sandy Era was when we got introduced to the entire cast (or should I say residents?) of 4616 Melrose Place. There was Billy Campbell (Andrew Shue) and Allison Parker (Courtney Thorne-Smith,) the building's sweet and sometimes homely roommates. Dr. Michael (Thomas Calabro) and Jane Mancini (Josie Bissett) were almost like the parents of the apartment. They were like an old married couple that everyone came to for help or advice; after all they were married for almost a whole 2 years! There was the resident hearthrob and cool loner, Jake Hanson (Grant Show.) As you may recall, Jake parlayed his tie-in role on "90210" first. In the first few eps of "Melrose" Jake could often be seen shooing away Kelly Taylor (Jenny Garth.) Then there was Matt Fielding (Doug Savant,) who really didn't have much to say or do during season one. Although this was one of the first times that an (openly) g-a-y character ever had a recurring role on an American coast-to-coast series. The only thing unbelievable about the character of Matt was his sense of style. Wouldn't you think a g-a-y man living in West Hollywood would understand the importance of fashion and dressing well a little better? (It makes me gag to think that poor Matt wore that hideous sandal-sock combo more than once.) Rhonda Blair (Vanessa Williams, not the Miss America) was the token black character. During The Sandy Era her character was very well developed and we got to know Rhonda rather well; she was a sweet and sexy fitness instructor (teaching "cardio funk.") And, finally completing The Sandy Era was none other than Sandy Louise Harling (Amy Locane.) Sandy we hardly knew ya! Sanda is sorta like the Lana Shields of "Melrose Place" because she seemed so sexy, yet rather sexually frusterated. Sandy was an aspiring actress, who got her "big break" and left 4616 for the bright lights of the Big Apple to star on "Forever & Tomorrow." My favorite episode with Sandy is "Lonely Hearts." This is the one when she gets stalked. I always thought that Sandy and Jake would have made a great couple, and they did date, but nothing ever came of it. And, before we got a good chance to get to know her she was gone! Halfway through The Sandy Era, it also seemed like this mini-season changed, slightly. Did you notice how the stories started to get more serious, however insignificant; Jane's pregnancy, Alison's married lover and Billy's attack.
The Jo Reynolds Era is when the series was completely retooled. Gone were the pool parties, barbecues, friendly chats in the laundry room, group parties and fun-loving get-togethers. The arrival of Jo brought a whole new concept to this soapy drama. The eps got more grittier and serious. I also enjoyed Jo because she was like a breath of fresh air. Jo was very beautiful and always managed to add a bit of common sense to the storylines. In the very beginning (for her first and maybe even second ep,) she had somewhat of a rough exterior. But that was just a facade because Jo was petrified of letting people into her life. Once I got to know Jo, I found a new resident at this complex that was just as likeable (if not more,) than all the others! During this mini-season, we learn that Jake has an estranged son. And another aspect that I noticed was that Rhonda was now being fazed out. Did you noticed that Rhonda almost only exclusively had dialogue with Matt or with Terrence Haggard (John Marshall Jones,) who was her future hubby? Also during The Jo Reynolds Era we got to meet some more supporting/recurring cast members. Dr. Kimberly Shaw's (Marcia Cross) character was more developed. You may remember that she actaully spent X-Mas with the other tenants at "Melrose!" And we got to meet Jane's pesky little sister, Sydney Andrews (Laura Leighton.) Although, not much was really learned about Syd during The Jo Reynolds Era, except for the fact that she was obviously a bottle redhead during season 2!
The Amanda Season was the final and very best mini-season of "Melrose's" season 1 because the storylines got so much deeper and more serious. The actors were also much more polished and they seemed more confident. As it's been said many times before, Amanda Woodward was what "Melrose" was all about! She really helped make this show! During this era, we saw a rather entertaining love-triangle develop between Billy, Alison and Amanda. Of course that was after Alison left her on-again/off-again lover, Keith Gray (William R. Moses.) (Keith is actually introduced to Alison during The Sandy Era, but the most interesting eps with him are during The Amanda Era.) Alison even quit her job and moved to Seattle to be with Keith! I loved it when Amanda said to Alison, "and when it was obvious that Billy wasn't going to run to Seattle to chase after you you came back!" During this time, the character of Lucy Cabot (Deborah Adair) was also more prominently seen. Yes, Lucy was the typical cliche of the "modern American professional lady" but she also showed a lot of compassion to Alison. During this era, Jake and Jo have an AIDS scare when one of Jake's former lovers contracts the virus. We also got to see another transformation during The Amanda Season. This was when Jane and Michael's marriage started to unravel. It was also around this time that Michael turned into the sneaky snake that he was known for in following seasons. Of course Michael carried on an illicit affair with Kimberly. And when Alison confronted him (she caught the 2 kissing at the hospital,) he arragantly said to Jane, "this is just malicious gossip." By the way, am I the only one who thought Michael was much more sexier when he was nice? I never found him attractive in following seasons because he just came off as such a dirty cheat.
Everyone always talks about Billy and how he was such a dreamboat. I tend to disagree. I was never crazy about Billy. To me, he seemed like a big kid who was still somewhat immature. My "Melrose" dreamboat was Jake. Jake was the perfect man because he was the perfect balance of sweet and tough. Remember how he cared for Matt and took him to the hospital during the "Dreams Come True" ep; I loved it when the cop assumed that Jake was Matt's lover and Jake said, "he's not my lover" because Jake would have done this for anyone.
Another season 1 character who I enjoyed was Joan Campbell (Salome Jens.) Even though Mrs. Campbell (Billy's mom) was hardly seen, she always managed to make a big splash. She almost reminded of Bea Arthur a little. And Joan absolutely loved Alison. Seeing Joan on season 1 always reminds of Billy's second marriage to Samantha Reilly (Brooke Langton.) (I never could stand Billy's second wife, I probably hated her the most out of all the "Melrose" girls.) Anywho, during the reception, Joan had a little too much to drink (after all, it's a party, right!) and the old thing starts shooting her mouth off to Samantha telling her about Alison and how much she always liked her. Then Joan brings up Billy's first wife, Brooke (played by none other than Kristen Davis whom I love!!) which caused Samantha to really pout. And Joan said to Samantha in her husky Greta Garbo voice, "don't tell me I can't talk about Brooke now."
"Melrose Place" really was the very best nighttime soap. In my humble opinion it was way better than "Dynasty" and even the granddaddy of all nighttime soaps, "Dallas" because all the stories and characters were always so captivating (even during season 1!) If you want to see how it all began, I recommend getting season 1, you won't be disappointed! By the way, does anyone know when season 4 of "Melrose" will be out? As of Jan. '08 this set was taken down from Am@zon. Has season 4 of "Melrose" been discontinued? According to Wikipedia, it is supposed to be released on April 15, 2008. However I have not seen any other e-commerce sites offering it for pre-order.
...Always remember that you are what you watch!
Editorial Review:
Studio: Paramount Home Video Release Date: 05/20/2008
The Good, the Bad & the Beautiful Pack 2 (Beverly Hills, 90210 - The Complete Second Season / Melrose Place - The Complete Second Season)
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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 1
Average rating: 5.0 of 5
Oh those were the days! 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
Thank God they finally put these on DVD! I waited too long to revisit all my trashy tv friends. What can you say? These two shows defined my adolescence and are just as trashy, cheesy and fun the second time around!
Editorial Review:
Studio: Paramount Home Video Release Date: 05/20/2008
Melrose Place: The Complete First Season
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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 1
Average rating: 5.0 of 5
Melrose Place is pure '90s excitement 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.
Do you remember this super-cool 90210 spin-off? I sure do. I loved this show. Although, like many fans I didn't start watching until the mid-second season. When I used to watch repeats of the first season I never really enjoyed it. Because it was so different from the rest of the series (it's sorta like the difference between the first season of "The Facts of Life" compared to the rest of that series.) There were different characters and the stories were nowhere near over-the-top. There was no trashy sex or backstabbing. Although, now when I watch the first season I have a whole new fondness for this show. It's almost like looking at baby pictures of an old friend. She may have looked like an "ugly duckling" but I know that she's gonna turn out to be a knock-out!
I like to think of the first season of "Melrose" more as 3 mini-seasons. Because the entire first season is rather diverse and unique. I suppose the producers and writers (not to mention the actors and actresses) were still trying to find their way (i. e. make the show a hit,) which made them retool it more than once during that first faithful season. Let's see... There's the Sandy Era (Amy Locane,) which is the shortest of all season one's mini-seasons. This only lasted 14 eps (technically, 12 since the pilot is actually 1 ep and Sandy wasn't on the ep prior to her last one.) Then there's The Jo Reynolds (Daphne Zuniga) Era, which picks up right after Sandy leaves for NY (actually, 1 ep later.) The Jo Reynolds Era takes us through the end of '92 and the beginning of '93 which is also the start of the third and final season 1 mini-season. Then God said, "let there be Heather" and a "special Guest Star" was born! Of course, I'm talking about Amanda Woodward (Heather Locklear) who totally assisted in transforming season 1 into it's final incarnation, The Amanda Era!
The Sandy Era was when we got introduced to the entire cast (or should I say residents?) of 4616 Melrose Place. There was Billy Campbell (Andrew Shue) and Allison Parker (Courtney Thorne-Smith,) the building's sweet and sometimes homely roommates. Dr. Michael (Thomas Calabro) and Jane Mancini (Josie Bissett) were almost like the parents of the apartment. They were like an old married couple that everyone came to for help or advice; after all they were married for almost a whole 2 years! There was the resident hearthrob and cool loner, Jake Hanson (Grant Show.) As you may recall, Jake parlayed his tie-in role on "90210" first. In the first few eps of "Melrose" Jake could often be seen shooing away Kelly Taylor (Jenny Garth.) Then there was Matt Fielding (Doug Savant,) who really didn't have much to say or do during season one. Although this was one of the first times that an (openly) g-a-y character ever had a recurring role on an American coast-to-coast series. The only thing unbelievable about the character of Matt was his sense of style. Wouldn't you think a g-a-y man living in West Hollywood would understand the importance of fashion and dressing well a little better? (It makes me gag to think that poor Matt wore that hideous sandal-sock combo more than once.) Rhonda Blair (Vanessa Williams, not the Miss America) was the sexy, outspoken resident in this trendy building. During The Sandy Era her character was very well developed and we got to know Rhonda rather well; she was a sweet and sexy fitness instructor (teaching "cardio funk.") And, finally completing The Sandy Era was none other than Sandy Louise Harling (Amy Locane.) Sandy we hardly knew ya! Sanda is sorta like the Lana Shields of "Melrose Place" because she seemed so sexy, yet rather sexually frusterated. Sandy was an aspiring actress, who got her "big break" and left 4616 for the bright lights of the Big Apple to star on "Forever & Tomorrow." My favorite episode with Sandy is "Lonely Hearts." This is the one when she gets stalked. I always thought that Sandy and Jake would have made a great couple, and they did date, but nothing ever came of it. And, before we got a good chance to get to know her she was gone! Halfway through The Sandy Era, it also seemed that this mini-season was slightly retooled. Did you notice how the stories started to get more serious, however insignificant; Jane's pregnancy, Alison's married lover and Billy's attack.
The Jo Reynolds Era is when the series was completely retooled. Gone were the pool parties, barbecues, friendly chats in the laundry room, group parties and fun-loving get-togethers. The arrival of Jo brought a whole new concept to this soapy drama. The eps got more grittier and serious. I also enjoyed Jo because she was like a breath of fresh air. Jo was very beautiful and always managed to add a bit of common sense to the storylines. In the very beginning (for her first and maybe even second ep,) she had somewhat of a rough exterior. But that was just a facade because Jo was petrified of letting people into her life. Once I got to know Jo, I found a new resident at this complex that was just as likeable (if not more,) than all the others! During this mini-season, we learn that Jake has an estranged son. And another aspect that I noticed was that Rhonda was now being fazed out. Did you notice that Rhonda almost only exclusively had dialogue with Matt or with Terrence Haggard (John Marshall Jones,) who was her future hubby? Also during The Jo Reynolds Era we got to meet some more supporting/recurring cast members. Dr. Kimberly Shaw's (Marcia Cross) character was more developed. You may remember that she actaully spent X-Mas with the other tenants at "Melrose!" And we got to meet Jane's pesky little sister, Sydney Andrews (Laura Leighton.) Although, not much was really learned about Syd during The Jo Reynolds Era, except for the fact that she was obviously a bottle redhead during season 2!
The Amanda Season was the final and very best mini-season of "Melrose's" season 1 because the storylines got so much deeper and more serious. The actors were also much more polished and they seemed more confident. As it's been said many times before, Amanda Woodward was what "Melrose" was all about! She really helped make this show! During this era, we saw a rather entertaining love-triangle develop between Billy, Alison and Amanda. Of course that was after Alison left her on-again/off-again lover, Keith Gray (William R. Moses.) (Keith is actually introduced to Alison during The Sandy Era, but the most interesting eps with him are during The Amanda Era.) Alison even quit her job and moved to Seattle to be with Keith! I loved it when Amanda said to Alison, "and when it was obvious that Billy wasn't going to run to Seattle to chase after you you came back!" During this time, the character of Lucy Cabot (Deborah Adair) was also more prominently seen. Yes, Lucy was the typical cliche of the "modern American professional lady" but she also showed a lot of compassion to Alison. During this era, Jake and Jo have an AIDS scare when one of Jake's former lovers contracts the virus. We also got to see another transformation during The Amanda Season. This was when Jane and Michael's marriage started to unravel. It was also around this time that Michael turned into the sneaky snake that he was known for in following seasons. Of course Michael carried on an illicit affair with Kimberly. And when Alison confronted him (she caught the 2 kissing at the hospital,) he arragantly said to Jane, "this is just malicious gossip." By the way, am I the only one who thought Michael was much more sexier when he was nice? I never found him attractive in following seasons because he just came off as such a dirty cheat.
Everyone always talks about Billy and how he was such a dreamboat. I tend to disagree. I was never crazy about Billy. To me, he seemed like a big kid who was still somewhat immature. My "Melrose" dreamboat was Jake. Jake was the perfect man because he was the perfect balance of sweet and tough. Remember how he cared for Matt and took him to the hospital during the "Dreams Come True" ep; I loved it when the cop assumed that Jake was Matt's lover and Jake said, "he's not my lover" because Jake would have done this for anyone.
By the way, look for Joyce Hyser in the "Responsibly Yours" ep. In this show she played Dawn Bonds, Billy's new girlfriend; a single mother who was tying to ignite her stand-up comedy career. Of course all children of the '80s remember Joyce Hyser as Terry in Just One of the Guys!
Another season 1 character who I enjoyed was Joan Campbell (Salome Jens.) Even though Mrs. Campbell (Billy's mom) was hardly seen, she always managed to make a big splash. She almost reminded of Bea Arthur a little. And Joan absolutely loved Alison. Seeing Joan on season 1 always reminds me of Billy's second marriage to Samantha Reilly (Brooke Langton.) (I never could stand Billy's second wife, I probably hated her the most out of all the "Melrose" girls.) Anywho, during the reception, Joan had a little too much to drink (after all, it's a party, right!) and the old thing starts shooting her mouth off to Samantha telling her about Alison and how much she always liked her. Then Joan brings up Billy's first wife, Brooke (played by none other than Kristen Davis whom I love!!) which caused Samantha to really pout. And Joan said to Samantha in her husky Greta Garbo voice, "don't tell me I can't talk about Brooke now."
"Melrose Place" really was the very best nighttime soap. In my humble opinion it was way better than "Dynasty" and even the granddaddy of all nighttime soaps, "Dallas" because all the stories and characters were always so captivating (even during season 1!) If you want to see how it all began, I recommend getting season 1, you won't be disappointed! ...Remember, you are what you watch!
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