Plot: What’s it about?
Based on the DC character, Green Arrow, The Arrow premiered on the CW in the fall of 2012. I will say right off the bat that I had never seen a single episode before approaching the show in its sophomore season. That being said, I do find it mildly interesting. The show is approaching its third season soon, and seems to have a strong following. Once again, Stephen Amell plays Oliver Queen/Green Arrow. He seems fairly comfortable with the character here, but I can’t compare it to the previous season since I started here. Still, he displays a strong lead presence. Katie Cassidy also returns as Laurel Lance, a former girlfriend of Green. The second season hits the ground running, so to speak. It’s been 5 years since the death of Tommy Merlyn and Oliver is living on a secluded island. As the season progresses, there are a lot of identity and trust issues on display here. It’s hard to discuss plot specifics of each episode without getting into spoilers, but suffice it to say, there are some surprising turns here. One thing I applaud of the 23 episodes of this second season is just how well paced it is. It’s an easy show to get involved with and kept me fairly intrigued.
Superheroes on the small screen seem to be invading fairly quickly. Marvel’s Agents of Shield is already in its second season and there are a few other shows based off on superheroes on the horizon. While I do enjoy Arrow, I admit that I am not overly familiar with this particular character. I think the new series, Gotham will be something I watch before this one, but that’s simply because I am far more interested in Bruce Wayne than I am with this character. So, with that being said, your mileage may vary. I was also impressed with the acting here, pretty much across the board. There’s not really a weak link to call out. The production values also seem very good for a show of this kind.
After reading some less than stellar reviews of the first season, I can’t say I regret starting here. While I wouldn’t call myself a new convert of the show, I do get the appeal, and will probably check out a few episodes of the third season. With so many TV shows old and new starting up, you could do a lot worse than Arrow. Fans will likely pick up this set simply to revisit it, while others should definitely check it out on Netflix. As mentioned, I don’t think Arrow is the most interesting in the superhero universe, but his Small-Screen treatment does impress. For already established fans, picking up this set is a no-brainer, for all others, give it a shot. You just might have a new favorite show.
Video: How’s it look?
Don’t let the fact that this is broadcast on the CW fool you – Arrow looks every bit as good as any show on one of the “Big three” networks. The series tends to favor darker scenes and this isn’t that surprising for a hero that runs around at night. Contrast and black levels are in perfect harmony, detail is excellent and having caught a few of the episodes during their original air (in HD), I’d have to say that this Blu-ray looks superior to the OTA broadcasts. Fans rejoice as this series looks spectacular on Blu-ray.
Audio: How’s it sound?
Complimenting the video is a rather robust DTS HD Master Audio soundtrack. I think we’re past the days when a television series has to sound dated and this is certainly not the case as this mix simply resonates in some of the episodes. Vocals are strong and concise, surrounds are used often and the LFE are very active (though in some episodes more than others). Some general ambiance is always present for a very active, all around mix. Again, a fine job.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This Blu-ray combo pack has both Blu-ray and DVD’s (totaling 9 discs) as well as a smattering of extras.
- From Vigilante to Hero – I’d have to say that if you’re unfamiliar with this avant garde hero, then this would be a very good place to start. Then again, this is the second season of the show so I’d assume that anyone fitting that category would be few and far between. Still, this gives us a nice overview of the character and his motives – is he legit or just delusional?
- The Visual Effects of Arrow – Ok, this isn’t some $200 million dollar summer blockbuster, but with the limited budget on the show, they do provide some rather nice (and unique) special effects – they’re detailed here.
- Wirework: The Impossible Moves of Arrow – I’m now at the point in my life where if I tried some of the things in this show, I’d end up in the hospital (or at least on the sofa popping pain pills), but they make some of these things look so cool!
- Deleted Scenes – A bakers’ dozen are included spread across the four Blu-ray’s.
- Arrow: 2013 Comic-Con Panel – Comic Con has become the place to be to promote your movie or television series (or, hell, your comic) and though this is pretty cool to have as a feature, if you’ve watched the season, then it’s a bit redundant as what they allude to has already taken place. Still, better to have than have not.
- Gag Reel – A little too much fun on the set…
- DVD/Digital HD Copy
