While we're not overly pleased with the rampant drive for "reality" television that the success of "THE OSBOURNES" has spawned, we'll have to admit this series is great television!  One doesn't have to like Ozzy Osbourne's music(This reviewer doesn't)to empathize with this aging heavy-metal star's daily struggles.  Sure, he's extremely wealthy, and even wealthier now that MTV finally stepped up to paying what this hit show's stars deserve, but "THE OSBOURNES" truly demonstrates that the same types of household problems affect the rich, as the not so rich.  In spite of her weight problems and punk hair, daughter Kelly, is adorable.  Ozzy's son, Jack, "is" the typical teenager.  For all of  Jack's efforts to live out an adolescent boy's right to be rebellious towards society and one's parents, it's hard to pull off "rebel" status with someone like Ozzy for a parent! What can he do to annoy Ozzy.  Well, we learn that Ozzy doesn't have it any easier than other fathers/husbands when trying to get some simple demands met. 

Ozzy doesn't have the ruling power status his fans would first suspect. His wife, Sharon, has that position!  And, Sharon's a terrific mom and wife!  Just as some imagined Florence Henderson's "Carol Brady" assumed that role in the '70s, one realizes that the challenges Sharon faces and deals with as a mom and wife, on an every day basis, really comes off as heroic at times.  So, in part, believe it or not, "THE OSBOURNES" is really a tribute to American Values.  This is a family built, most of all, on love!  Sure, Ozzy cusses in such a free-flowing manner, that would make sailors wince, but he's a likeable guy.  Everything about this family is pretty much likeable, and endearing. 

BUENA VISTA has preserved the show's original full frame status.  Colors are generally fine.  The video elements vary in quality at times, but overall, it's a sharp picture.  The image has better depth and clarity than in its original television airings. Contrast is fine, with generally deep blacks and grays.  There is some minor artifacting.  Fleshtones appear natural. 

BUENA VISTA has provided a Dolby Digital 2.0 surround mix.  There's very little "surround" utilization, however there are some stereo separation moments towards the front.  Dialogue is always intelligible(although Ozzy isn't!) and free from distortion.

There are two versions of "THE OSBOURNES-FIRST SEASON" available. There's the "Uncensored" version, reviewed here, and the original "Censored" version as well.  The "Uncensored" version offers options for both, and while it's amusing to hear Ozzy's actual language, the censored version loses none of its power due to the bleeping.

The family offers a commentary for each episode, but there's a reality to the idea of "too much of a good thing..."  After hearing the first two commentaries, one may not be able to escape from having a bloated feeling.

One of the best supplements here, is the "Ozzy Translator." With this option turned on, captions deciphering Ozzy's garbled ranting, are displayed, with hilarious results. 

A video segment with Ozzy , "Ozzy's Ten Commandments" features the man and family as we hear what his views of what makes a good family, are aired.

There are some other extras also, but the show is enough reason to recommend this for any collection. It's great!