nip/tuck - The Complete First Season (DVD)

If you want to talk about no holds barred drama, you cannot leave out the hit television series "nip/tuck" and if you haven't seen it you are missing out. This has got to be the most fearless, provocative and entertaining television series to come around in a long time.

While the acting is not always top notch "nip/tuck" more than makes up for that with its original storylines that shock you at every turn, leaving no stone unturned or wrinkle unexamined. This series manages to push the limits in every area from steaming soap filled sex scenes to some of the most graphic surgery procedures ever televised. Then there is the level of swearing that manages to take advantage of the 10 o'clock time slot as the words shit, dick and ass-hole become everyday TV language.

It is for all the above reasons that this show has become a hit and exactly why it is a good buy on DVD. Each episode has something in it, there is no fluff or room to spare and you will find that evident from the deleted scenes, which are presented in a much different way than from most TV show DVDs.

The deleted scenes, or more appropriately put, the scenes from the "Cutting Room Floor" are presented in line with the episode they are from as well there is a brief explanation given before each one. This is a satisfying change from TV show DVDs that just present them in one big bunch making you guess which episode they came from, ultimately leaving the viewer uninterested.

The other extra features are just as good as they don't overstay their welcome and get straight to the point as you are taken on a journey to learn more about the cast and creators, the makeup effects and more.

Probably the best feature is the one detailing the special makeup effects and how they are done. You are taken directly into the creation process and presented examples of how several of the effects are down as they show you the prop and the scene from the show from which it came. Also for you weak stomachs out there, don't be ashamed, you will also learn just who on the cast gets a bit queasy themselves for those graphic surgery scenes.

Another feature that really helped the show's reality factor featured real plastic surgeons discussing the practice and how much the show actually reflected real life. I won't tell you what they said but after listening you will have a greater respect for those plastic surgeons that aren't always held in the highest regard.

The gag reel left a little to be desired and the music video for the main theme for the show wasn't really necessary as the song is now running through my head non-stop after watching all five of these discs in two days.

This set comes just before season 2 is about to air and is a perfect way for you to catch up before you ever fall behind. So run out and grab it, and for more on season 2 check out our special "nip/tuck" premiere page by clicking here and tune in to FX on June 22nd at 10 pm for the 2 hour premiere, which is going to be presented commercial free thanks to Sirius radio.