Plot: What’s it about?
Duane “Dog” Chapman has taken down thousands of criminals, as he is one of the most famous bounty hunters of all time. He even has his own popular television series on A&E, where his chases and apprehensions are documented. His audience watches as he warns his captives of the dangers of the criminal lifestyle, a lifestyle he knows himself, as a former inmate. Now however, Dog fights on the right side of the law, with his colorful crew by his side. But when Dog headed to Mexico to capture serial rapist Andrew Luster, he found himself behind bars once again. The Mexican government took offense at Dog’s methods and approach, so they threw him in jail, even though he brought in a violent criminal. Now Dog and his crew talk about the climactic apprehension and its aftermath, so the whole story is revealed, straight from the source.
How can you not be entertained by Dog the Bounty Hunter? His larger than life persona seems like it should be the basis for a Saturday Night Live sketch, but Dog is real, so its even better. His gems of wisdom never fail to crack me up, nor does his 1980s inspired look and attitude. He seems like such a goof, but time after time, he lands his bounties and without a doubt, his chases make for fun television. When I heard Dog was arrested, I feared he had fallen off the crime wagon, but luckily, that wasn’t the case. I can’t understand the logic used by the Mexican officials, since Dog removed a dangerous criminal, but in any event, the entire saga is chronicled in this release. It was nice to hear from Dog, as his direct comments provide true insight and those with him give their take as well. If you’re a fan of the show, then Dog the Bounty Hunter: The Arrest is must see stuff. A&E’s release also includes some bonus scenes and a retrospective of 2006 in Dog’s world, so this disc is recommended.
Video: How does it look?
The show is presented in full frame, as intended. This looks about like it would when broadcast, solid, but this is reality television, so it isn’t as refined. But the visuals come across clean and sharp, so you won’t miss any of the action. Dog’s massive mullet is crystal clear too, which I know is important to some folks. The colors have a natural tone, while black levels remain consistent. This just looks like most reality shows do, good, but not as slick as normal shows. And since the transfer here represents the intended visuals well, I can’t imagine fans will be let down by this presentation.
Audio: How does it sound?
The same holds true here, as the audio is live, so it can be rough at times, but for the most part, the soundtrack is up to snuff. The office and interview segments sound clear and no issues arise, thanks to the more controlled environment. Out on the track downs however, the sound can be off a little, but that is part and parcel with this type of show. You might not pick up all the vocals, so a line could be missed here and there, but not that often. And if flaws do surface, it is due to the live and raw nature of the material, so the soundtrack is just the best this material can sound.
Supplements: What are the extras?
Year of the Dog is a look back at the frantic 2006 adventures of Dog and his crew. This is a well made piece and offers some good footage not found in the series itself. Speaking of new footage, you’ll find some additional scenes here as well, so there is a good amount of bonus footage to be found.
