Whether it's a snowy nude sprint down Main Street, the mysterious appearance of a long-lost relative, or the improbable death of yet another of Maggie's boyfriends, life's never dull in the remote hamlet of Cicely, Alaska. Colorful characters and quirky plots propelled
Northern Exposure into the hearts of millions of viewers, earning the CBS "dramedy" series seven Emmy awards between its 1990 debut and its demise six seasons later.
In season 1, we meet Dr. Joel Fleischman (Rob Morrow), an urban New York yuppie who consents to four years of rural servitude after Alaska pays his medical-school tuition. Joel's fish-out-of-water adventures drive the show, but it's the quirky ensemble of characters--Chris, the DJ/philosopher (John Corbett), Holling, the bartender (John Cullum), Maurice, the town patriarch (Barry Corbin), Ed, the filmmaker (Darren E. Burrows), and Maggie, the bush pilot (Janine Turner), among others–-that keeps the series consistently entertaining. The town develops its own offbeat personality as well, a Mayberry-meets-Twin-Peaks blend of Native mysticism, Aurora Borealis-induced dreams, unlikely tales of long-lost family members, and rumors of a Bigfoot-like creature known simply as "Adam."
Northern Exposure provides a utopian escape--a place where life is interesting but never dangerous, everyone's insightful, the mystical becomes real, and nobody's burdened with a mundane 9-to-6 desk job. Cicely is a delightful place to visit, even if it's only for an hour at a time.
A mid-season replacement, season 1 consists of just eight episodes on two DVDs. Each episode includes 5-10 minutes of outtakes and deleted scenes. --Shane Burnett
1 Northern Exposure INCOMPLETE For Any Season
The Northern Exposure DVDs feature only four episodes per disc. At two discs, two episodes per, that's eight episodes out of thirteen. The First Season does NOT include the pilot.
VERY disappointing.
2 Just One teeny tiny complaint
It was fun to recieve this DVD! I love the cute little parka that it is dressed in!
My only complaint about the DVD is that it has 2 sides and trying to read the "teeny tiny" print on the DVD itself is difficult. But I managed to figure it out and am enjoying watching the first season of one of my favorite TV programs.
I will certainly buy the other seasons.
3 may 10th!!!!!
looks like season 3 is coming....may 10th...26 episodes or something like that...(dont quote me on that..but somewhere in that area)...cant wait...watched the other seasons a few times now and my girlfriend is getting pissed.!!!!! anyway...thought you all might want to know...
4 Short on episodes because it was a summer filler show
Okay, so it's really expensive, and there's only a few episodes, and the special features suck. Plus, for some ridiculous reason, the original music has been changed.
But it's Maggie, and Joel, and Chris, and all the rest of the amazing cast. If you're really a fan, you'll probably splurge anyway, like I did.
FYI however, the first and second season only have 7 or 8 episodes because it was a "summer filler" show. All the rest of the seasons have about 24 episodes (and they better release them all on DVD, or else I really will boycott it)
I heard a rumor that the third season is also coming out in May 2005. Can anyone confirm?
5 Price TOOOO High
I love Northern Exposure. I watched it many times while it was on A&E channel. I fact I have recorded every episode on video tape. I would love to buy the DVD's but the price is TOOOO HIGH!!
I passed on the DVD's of another favorite, X-FILES, because the price is ridiculusly high. Lower the price (NE by $10 and X-FILES by about $80) to a reasonable level and I would buy both. satman
6 Northern Exposure Season One
To watch the episodes of Northern Exposure was, and now is again, the basic reason for living in this age of entertainment. There is nothing greater. Period. To the distributors, please keep the next seasons coming out on dvd as fast as you possbily can. Please. And Thank You.
7 Several times made this and Season 2 memorable
The first time I watched this DVD, I was a little annoyed with Doctor Joel Fleischmann's whining, and the blatant mistakes in depicting true Alaskan life.
However, after watching it two more times (I was bummed because there aren't many episodes in the set), I started to really appreciate what the whole show was trying to say. I started to really love all the characters who appeared shallow the first time and started to show more depth the more I watched each episode.
By the time I got to the season finale of the 2nd season, I was laughing so hard I almost fell out of bed.
I would certainly recommend this to anyone who likes watching shows about Alaska or just outdoorsy type shows.
I didn't much care about what else was on the set. The episodes were enough.
Lynne
Chugiak, Alaska
8 better than the reviews suggest
I briefly hesitated before getting this DVD, because the reviews posted here have been mixed. But I got it for Christmas and I've been delighted. Unlike some of the other reviewers, I don't really have a problem with the 2-sided DVDs. The episodes are all there in good quality sound and picture. The extended and deleted scenes are sort of superfluous and not very interesting, and will probably disappoint most people. They may interest only the most diehard NX fans. If you loved the series and can spare the $44, you should get the DVD. The first three seasons are the best writing ever on television, so you should add this to your DVD collection if you can.
9 Best show ever on tv
A lot of the other reviews have a point, the dvd itself does not have much to offer for extras, but the show makes up for it. My biggest disappointment was that there was not more episodes (considering how much it costs). I would love to get my hands on more Northern Exposre!
10 Northern Exposure/conflicted
OK -- I'm like the rest of the NX junkies.
I cried like a hurt kid when they played Iris Dement's "Our Town" at the end and I knew I'd never share more new times with the characters and town I'd grown to love. So yeah, if they were charging $75 for the thing, I'd buy it.
But come on! Even at the Amazon discount, $45 for eight episodes with no interviews with the actors, writers or producers? No discussions with TV or social critics? OK, some outtakes and a few deleted scenes, but good grief. Yes, the cutesy little snow jacket is nice; but I had to toss it so the DVD would fit on the shelf with my others.
Sorry, but I'm knocking it down by two stars for packaging at the sake of substance and a high price. But yeah, I'd buy it again.
Why oh why oh why can't there be more shows like this? No disgusting canned laughter; plenty of quirky characters who tug at your heart? Life outside the hotbeds of urban density? Chris in the Morning?
It was just four (good) seasons, but we all shared some great times.
11 The very best tv show; the worst presentation
I agree with the other reviewers who thought: At last! My favorite show, characters I will never forget and now don't have to. The episodes are there, so I am happy. But, except for the neat zip-up parka packaging, the producers of this set should be ashamed of themselves.
Surely they could have included more outtakes, commentaries, etc., like all the other DVD's out there. The very least, they should have included a package insert listing the episodes with their synopses. For the price, this is the cheapestly produced DVD set I've yet to see.
If not for that, I'd have given it five stars.
12 Greetings From Cicely, Alaska..Wish You Were Here!..
This review refers to the DVD edition of "Northern Exposure - Season One"(2 discs - Universal)...
Chris in the Morning...the one and only DJ at the little radio station (KBHR), in Cicely, Alaska is about to give the traffic report..."Maggie O'Connell just drove down Main St, and she's going a little too fast". That about sums up the pace of this little remote town, elevation 6,572, that with the addition of Dr. Joel Fleischman, newly arrived from New York City, has a population of 215 quirky, but very lovable residents.
Dr. Fleischman(Rob Morrow) is being held against his will. Going through medical school with the financial help of the good people of the state of Alaska(as he is constantly reminded), he is now committed to serve his time...a few years of medical services in return for his Columbia University education. It won't be so bad...a condo in Anchorage, golfing on the weekends, a nice office in the city..but wait..hold the phone...instead of Anchorage, he's roped into serving his time in Cicely!
As Joel tries everything to find some loop-hole in his contract, you will fall more in love with the wonderful characters and the beautiful surroundings with each episode. And...you'll have lots of laughs doing it. He is like a fish out of water as this big city yuppie deals with the everyday happenings in Cicely. "I'M A DOCTOR", he says over and over, as he contends with wild animals, plumbing problems, the wilderness, and interacts in the seemingly odd lives of the residents.
There are only 8 episodes in this first seasons, but in those stories you will find some of the best writing TV has to offer.
You can't help but to become attached to the residents. From the native Indians, to the ex-astronaut, the beauty queen, and to the folks who just found themselves there, wanting to start a new life and stayed. And apparently, Dr. Fleischman can't help it either, as by the end of this season we see he has begun to warm to them and has started to discover the beauty of his surroundings as well.
The story lines will definatly keep a smile on your face. There is even the start of some great romantic tension between the Doc and Maggie(the local bush pilot, who also happens to be Joel's landlady).The cast is a marvelous ensemble. It includes Janine Turner, Barry Corbin and John Corbett.
Okay, The DVD pacakaging....There wasn't anything about it that would make me take off a star from this wonderful program. I was so invloved with the stories, the characters and the scenery, I didn't notice any music missing(If I didnt read about that, I wouldn't of even known). The catchy theme music is there, along with music from KHBR. The discs are 2 sided with 2 episodes on each side. Also included are deleted scenes and outtakes(maybe would have been nice to have a few interviews with cast members or the creators, hopefully these will be included on future releases). The picture is beautiful, the sound is in DD2.0 surround, and there are captions in English for those who need them(this is always a plus in my book). It may also be viewed with French or Spanish subtitles. One thing I might have liked would be an insert with info about episode placements(which disc and which side they are on). Total running time is 6 hrs. 24 mins.
If you are a fan, you will enjoy reliving some time in Cicely with the Doc, Holling and Shelly, Chris, Ed, Maurice, Marilyn, Maggie, and one very large moose! If you have never seen this and are looking for some really fine entertainment, you will find that here...but..be careful, you may want to pack it all in and move there!
enjoy...Laurie
13 But *I LIKED* the ski jacket packaging!
Maybe I am the only one, but I like the ski-jacket packaging - very original and I think it's a selling point! BUT, when I realized there were only 8 episodes on the first season and 7 on the second season using double-sided disks at a list price of 60 bucks, I was shocked! If they put out later seasons with 25 episodes on them, WHAT WILL THEY CHARGE THEN??? They need to add some liner notes which list the episodes or a booklet for that price.
14 bring the price down or raise the quality of the product
look.... As consumers, and more importantly as fans, we deserve more than what is being offered here. Sloppy packaging, a high price, nothing of substance except the episodes. The delay in satisfying the demand of putting the episodes of NX on dvd commands more attention to detail than this. Share your voice by saving your money.
15 If You Don't Love Northern Exposure,You Need Help!!
In my opinion,Northern Exposure is at the top of the top five television series of all time, and I've been watching television since the 1950s! It is unbelievably great writing that is then brought to life by perfect acting, fabulous scenery, great music ... well, it is perfect and I absolutely love every visit to Cicely, Alaska, no matter how many times I've been there before. This is brilliant work - funny, quirky, sad, touching, profound; it's comedy, drama, philosophy, religion, it's Life - the whole ball of wax - and it's work that is in love with Life in ALL of its aspects!
Now the real point of this review is this: WHEN, OH WHEN, WILL SEASON 3 AND BEYOND BE AVAILABLE??!! PLEASE HURRY!! WE ARE LINED UP AT YOUR DOORS WAITING FOR ALL OF THE REST OF THE NORTHERN EXPOSURE SEASONS TO BE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE. PLEASE! HURRY!
16 Too Few Epidoes!!!
I'm a huge fan of Northern Exposure and have been waiting for years for the DVDs to finally be released. Even though I have every single episode on VHS, I still was happy to pay to have DVDs of it.
When the first NX DVD was finally released, I was shocked by the price, but thought it would be worth it because I imagined it must contain a lot of episodes for my viewing pleasure.
What I got instead was a real disappointment. It was a DVD wrapped in a cumbersome and useless "parka," and contained a mere eight episodes! This did not even remotely live up to my expectations.
The second Northern Exposure DVD is even worse! Only seven episodes!
It's appalling the way Universal is handling their release of this great show! When will they get with it and release the complete series onto a few box sets?
Hard-core fans are willing to shell out for these DVDs, but we're all getting pretty disgusted with the way this great TV series' release is being handled. The long drawn out wait for a handful of new episodes each year is killing the momentum and good will of their audience.
And enough with the parkas! Give us CONTENT not packaging!
The show is still great to watch and the fans want very much to buy the series on DVD. Unfortunately, everyone who buys these DVDs is feeling very ripped off, frustrated and mad at Universal for their extremely untimely and ill-conceived release of this show.
17 Universal Greed
I must echo what others have said here that this is indeed a GREAT program .. my favorite TV series ever .. and I'm certainly glad to have it finally on DVD .. And I too am disgusted at Universal's greed shown by such things as the flimsy two-sided & therefore unlabeled discs, the effort into promotion rather than quality packaging such as there is no listing of individual programs anywhere .. impossible to refer to a case or disc label or anywhere else to find out what's included on each disc. It could have been packed SO MUCH BETTER!! .. without the cutesy & useless little parka thing. For the high price given the limited number of episodes, Universal should have done it right! .. Still I'm happy to have it at all .. once one actually gets to the episodes themselves they are as exquisite as always.
18 Hardcore fans will buy, but we deserve better
The positive side of this is that it's wonderful to have these episodes on DVD. I've been waiting for a long time. Hope to see the full series available someday. But, as a consumer, I deserve better. I'm not going to grovel and say "It's OK to give us a cheaply-made product, just so I have any version of NX on DVD!" I don't mind paying a high price for a quality production, but this is an embarrassment to Universal. It's like they let the interns take over or something. Actually, my interns produce better work than this - maybe they SHOULD'VE turned it over to the interns.
I'm one of those fans who's willing to pay the price because I love the series, but who thinks we're getting ripped off with the sloppiness and cheap production of this DVD. I don't believe for one minute the music licensing is the cause of this. If the DVD had been produced properly, I'd be OK with the price, but this is the flimsiest version of a TV season DVD I've ever seen.
The annoyances of this DVD set: The parka package is a cheap gimmick I could do without. Just makes it annoying to pack and store. I took it off and stuck it in a closet somewhere. I would rather have seen the effort that went into the parka go into the DVD (I know it doesn't work that way). Flimsy, two-sided discs are really annoying. They had to do this for a mere 8 episodes? Rubbish. It makes it frustrating to play. Labeling is confusing, hard to read, poorly done. I wouldn't even care to pay this price for a mere 8 episodes, if the quality of this was as it should be. And, it looks as if we have the same sloppiness to look forward to with the second season. I also wasn't impressed with the extras. They could've boosted the quality by giving fans something special here, but don't seem to be committed enough to this project to do so.
It is great to see the episodes here. Aurora Borealis is one of my favorites. I'd buy the set just for this one. The only draw to this set is if it has episodes on it you really want to have. If it does, you'll probably give in to the price, put up with the poor quality and buy the set. That's how good the show was.
I'm hoping someday we'll get a properly-produced box set of this series that is produced with the care it deserves. I'm not holding my breath though, so this seems to be what we're going to get and have to look forward to with future releases. Too bad - this show and its fans deserve better.
19 Don't complain - abstain!
People, people . . . It's absolutely no use complaining about how high the price of this set of DVDs is. You can't say, "I bought it, but I'm unhappy about it." The company already has your money, and they won't change their pricing based on your expressed unhappiness -- what they learn from the transaction is that you *are* willing to pay their price. If you really think the price of this set is too high (as I do), you've got to grit your teeth and NOT BUY IT! That's the only thing that will genuinely signal to the company that you aren't willing to meet their price. Six or seven bucks an episode? It's crazy. Release a combined set of seasons 1 and 2 for this price, and we can talk.
20 Should be cheaper EVEN WITH THE ORIGIONAL MUSIC!
I have read a lot of reviews about NX Season 1 justifying the RIDICULOUS price of these DVDs by saying that because they have included all of the origional music, the price is justifyably high.
Well, as Maurice once said, "I'm sorry, but that dog won't hunt!"
I refer you to Freaks and Geeks, the complete series. 18 episodes. Tons of extras. ALL ORIGIONAL MUSIC INCLUDED. The price? $52.49. This was a DVD set that was packaged with class, and not given the shoddy treatment this Northern Exposure set recieved. Also, Freaks and Geeks used MUCH more pop music than NX, music that would only be cleared at a high price, a higher price than most of NX's more obscure tracks, yet the Freaks and Geeks SIX DISK, immaculatly packaged DVD set is only a few more dollars more expensive than the half-arsed thrown together box set of Northern Exposure. What a sham.
I want my money back.
21 Yet another NX comment
For those who are in disbelief about the small number of episodes on the first two DVD sets, here is a good guide: http://epguides.com/NorthernExposure/
As many others do, I also find it shocking that the production is so sloppy and I'd gladly trade in the silly "jackets" for DVDs labeled correctly and a slip of paper listing the contents. The stars are definitely for the show itself and not the DVDs.
22 My Favorite TV Series
Finally I can put away all those VHS Tapes of Northern Exposure, (that were recorded in extended play with fuzzy quality), to get my Northern Exposure Fix!!! I love this show. Excellent DVD
23 I can't help it, I'm hooked!
I can understand the disappointment re: the price and how many episodes you get. (I'd give 5 stars for more!) But, I think they were marketing this for me. I'm hooked and was bummed out when they stopped playing the reruns on A and E three years ago so price is no object! It's just a well done soap. I love the detail of each character from eash of their peculiar quirks, their histories and the details of the inside of their homes. Chris' trailer is great!
The fantasies and the Native American culture is the most interesting spin. This show must have influenced another unique and crazy show, Allie McBeal!
If you don't know about the show, find out! Even my husband now understands my attraction to it!
P.S. Another nice thing about the show is the writers did not feel that they needed to add R-rated materials to attract viewers. Well done and refreshing!
24 What's with the commercials?
I loved Northern Exposure - but I never watch the DVD at all. The reason is that it starts out with a raft of annoying commercials that you CANNOT BYPASS. I never feel like waiting the ten minutes or so for these idiotic things to run out, so the DVD just sits on the shelf.
25 good picture detail, bad volume controls
"Northern Exposure, 1st season" on DVD -- The shows seem to be in airing order with the pilot first, & 'film' is nice & clean, possibly been cleaned up? But I must warn that the sound is very disproportionate as to volume control... let me explain. Our tv normally sits at 20-22 volume. On this set, during the show our volume has to set up to 28-30 to hear the actors but if the theme or other music comes up, you have to quickly set the volume down to about 15-18 or get blasted out. Otherwise, it's been a real pleasure seeing these shows again.
26 Great memories of an outstanding series.
This DVD is well worth the money. I enjoyed seeing some episodes I missed and reliving others. Highly recommended for all Northern Exposure fans. I can't wait for the second DVD.
27 A really good effort spoiled
It was a really unique show, that was so well written, acted and produced that it not only survived it's awkward position in the network programming, but it thrived and built up a large, intelligent and dedicated audience.
It went out on top and with class, and I'm happy to see it back again in this format.
The cost is pretty steep for the amount of content, however the tremendous cost and negotiation involved with the music licenses (which are shockingly expensive beyond what most people would ever guess) have set the price. This and future sets will likely carry a hefty price tag, but I'm pretty sure it was this way, or no way at all.
One thing they did, unfortunately, to bring the cost down (slightly) was to use double-sided disks which was clearly, from the reviews (and in my own humble opinion), an awful mistake. I'm already paying big bucks to get my eight episodes, so I would really rather have dropped the extra buck or two for good quality, single sided, nicely labeled disks, and I pray the studio took their lumps on this grave error and ship us a nicer product for the remaining seasons (and some kind of paper insert, even just one loose page for God's sake, would be appreciated). Keep the goofy box jacket (which was admittedly eye-catching the first time) and use the savings to upgrade the actual product in the box. 5 STARS for the content, 3 STARS (maybe 2.5) for the physical product.
28 I Love Northern Exposure
This is a quality dvd set. It is a little pricy, but it is worth it. You get a lot of extras, etc.
There is a guy by the name of Art selling bootleg discs from ottowa. His are as expensive but the framerate is so low (around 2 mb/sec). He copied them from cable to a dvd recorder squeezing 5 episodes on per disc... WOAH!
These commerically released discs are professioanl quality all the way. Framerate is very high, to be expected of a commercial release. Sound is incredible.
If you are a fan, you will not be dissappointed to have these discs in your dvd collection!
Ted K
29 Is that All?
It's just eight episodes with no extras. Why? Northern Exposure was a summer replacement series that was expected to just fade away after eight episodes. No one watches television in the summer. And heaven knows smart people do not watch television in the summer. I am so glad the clowns in programming were wrong.
Northern Exposure was a suprise hit. Why? Because the writing is good, the characters are strong and evolve as the series progresses. The content is challenging. This is a program that will be remembered fondly in years to come. It's the first show since Andy Griffith to capture that small town feel. It looks at all the people in this town with the affection, love and tolerance you hope your town has for you.
30 A cute little parka, but where are the extras?
With the possible exception of "SCTV"--another show that celebrated the Great White North--I love "Northern Exposure" more passionately than any other show ever televised. (Sure, "The Sopranos" is a better show on balance, but who is more amiable company--Ed Chigliak or Paulie Gualtieri?) This 2-CD set of the first eight episodes of Northern Exposure takes us back to the show's halcyon days, when we got our first taste of Joel and Maggie's quasi-romantic sparring, of Holling and Shelly's May-September love, of Chris's half-brilliant, half-chiselbrained philosophizing, of Maurice's slow burns and Marilyn's unflappable calm. Northern Exposure takes us to its own cozy, quirky little world and envelops us in it--a perfect sixty-minute vacation. The CD transfers on the new discs are crisp and excellent, as this extremely scenic show deserves. Yet although I appreciated the whimsy of the cute little orange zipper parka that encloses the CD box, I would gladly have traded it for a booklet on the production of the first season, and a few more extras. Without the parka, this set is pretty bare-bones, except for a few deleted scenes and outtakes. When the CD set of the second season comes out, I'd like to see more Cicely and less packaging.
31 as good as back then
except I was sure there was more than 8 episodes in a season. Yet they call it a complete season.
32 Only 2 Stars, and this is why:
First, let me say that I LOVE this show. I never missed an episode when it was on television. I give this 2 stars because of other issues abound.
The price is completely whacked considering this show is a decade old, there are only 2 discs with eight episodes (yes, I know there were only 8 the first season, but hence my reason for complaining about the price!!!), the lack of extra features for such a series, AND....the thing that REALLY ticked me off....it seems that since they are charging an exhorbitant price for this set, they COULD have paid someone with a brain to arrange the episodes in PROPER order on the discs!!!! (The pilot episode is on SIDE 2 of the first disc!!!!) What a shame. Universal should tuck their head between their legs for such a marketing disaster!!!
33 The Damned Down Jacket Made It Look FAT....
...This series and these deliciously quirky people are such good company it would be foolish NOT to buy this dvd. Some people have complained that there are not enough extras, but with a series ten years old, it is probably difficult to come up with additional material. However, I had no problem with the material provided. And the series is a delight to have on the shelf. BUT...as adorable as it is, I really dislike the "cute" down jacket wrapper. And I agree that 'they' should have invested that money in the dvd's. What can you do with it once you open the package? It just gets tossed onto the back of the hall closet top shelf. It is challenging enough to keep ones dvd's in some kind of order without having to deal with clothing for them. And, yes, the down jacket makes the dvd
look fat. It is only an illusion.The CONTENTS will delight you.
34 Exposing NORTHERN EXPOSURE
I must have received a new, revised edition of this DVD with the other previous customer reviews/complaints in mind when Universal remade it. There are absolutely no flaws, a decent amount of extras (although not exceedingly entertaining it is still nice to see happy times amongst cast and crew between takes) but, most importantly contains the Pilot episode! Although a Johnny-come-lately to the series (I didn't start watching the series until it's premier syndication on A&E back in '97), I fell head over heals for this series and along with The Wonder Years has got to be the best television series ever written. I have watched this series in it's entirety 7 times and it just got better and better each time. Upon watching this series it becomes axiomatic that each actor was as carefully chosen for their corresponding roles as was the plot of each episode as well as the general plot and direction the series was predetermined to take. Masterfully written with character developement at it's best with not a shred of contradiction by the end of the series. It's just too bad Rob Morrow felt he had to leave the series in search of other prospects by the end of the fifth season or this series might very well have run for another five years. Rob and Janine's on set chemistry is something Moonlighting could only have hoped to achieve. It will be a long time before another Television series comes along as good as this one. I have waited seven years for this to come out on DVD and owning the first season is a dream come true (no more waiting until 1:00 a.m. to see commercial-drenched episodes on the Hallmark Channel) and I greatly anticipate owning the reamining five seasons as they become available. Even after all these years this series still stands the test of time and for anyone who has maybe only watched bits and pieces of Northern Exposure in the past you owe it to yourself to broaden your horizons and make this magnificent series a part of your DVD library and a part of your life.
35 Only a few episodes, but well packaged and produced.
This show was always a favorite of mine. From the quirky and unusual characters to the fact that while the show was airing I could drive to the town of "Cicely, Alaska" (actually the town of Roslyn, Washington) and literally walk the streets and visit the same stores and restaurants they did, and see where the scenes were filmed.
What this show did so well was take "Seinfeld-like" daily events and situations of this unordinary and unusual town and capture the tensions and pulls between the characters. The interactions are always so well written that show had a level of realism in the personal relationships that made the strange events that much more captivating. Perhaps the early "Moonlighting" episodes were the only show that captured the on again-off again relationship tension between the lead characters as well as Northern Exposure did. Joel Fleischman is one of the better characters ever produced at depicting prolonged culture shock, and his early reactions to the differences between NYC and this little town in the middle of nowhere are priceless.
The packaging of the set itself is unique with the "down jacket" zipped up to cover the package, although not easy to store that way. I would have liked to see more bonus materials as well, so perhaps this will be available in set two?
The entire cast is well balanced and provides the right blend of drama and comedy. The writing was always well done, especially the first couple seasons. Overall, a great show and good presentation in this DVD set.
36 Technical Difficulties... and no response
I love Northern Exposure, and I'm definitely buying season 2. However, I'm going to have to re-purchase season 1 due to defects. The Aurora Borealis episode won't play a few scenes (it actually requires me to eject the disk, put it back in, and then fast forward through the hanging scenes). I've read that this is a common problem for people. Unfortunately, I was past Amazon's return window when this happened, and Universal doesn't stand by their quality...
Great show! Unfortunately, not given the handling it deserves.
37 All cynicism aside .. NX sparkles
All cynicism about its packaging aside, it was so refreshing to pop the pilot in the DVD player and be whisked back to the early days of Northern Exposure. My wife and I used to look forward to Monday nights to watch the series, and it was like that again. Yes, Universal should have done a lot better with the packaging. How about giving us liner notes listing the names of the episodes? And it took me awhile to figure out that the first two episodes were actually on the back of disc 1 and that the ''b'' sides of both discs have no labeling whatsoever. And what the heck am I supposed to do with that orange parka now? All that said, the show positively sparkles in DVD format. And, after all, isn't that what it's all about -- the show?
38 What a aGreat place to live---Cicley Alaaka
After watching Northern Exposure for several years. I want to live there.
I mean I know it doesn't exist, but it would be a great place to reside
A great place full of quirky people full of imagination, and charm.
I'm not going to try to review every character and every episode. But, I
will say this was one of the best written series of all time.
The cast was well chosen.
But one try it, you'll be hooked.
39 Expected more!
There's no arguement here that Northern Exposure was one of the most original shows on TV. I just wish that the production of this DVD set was up to those standards. No linar notes, poorly labeled two-sided DVD (with only TWO shows per side--give me a break!). No extras except a few deleted scenes.
How about a booklet? How about a listing of songs (one of the great things about this show was the amazing use of little known and popular songs that advanced the plot)? How about interviews? Credits? Filmographies? Etc, etc, etc.
Next time, skip the cute package parka and give us some worthwhile extras on the DVD's--you're charging top dollar! Customers expect more these days.
40 A great series that deserves better
The producers of the DVD really need to do better by this series and its fans in putting together the sets for later seasons. It wouldn't have taken too much more effort to make this a decent set: put the episodes in order, provide a brief booklet, and use single-sided discs. I don't mind paying a premium for the eight episodes, but am very disappointed at the lack of attention to the details that matter when you're viewing the shows. The parka was a nice packaging touch, but it's what's inside that counts!
41 A NX Fan
I'm thrilled to have Season 1 on DVD, and also to just find Season 2 will be released in November. If you love the show as I do, the cost of the dvds is worth it. Anyway, thought I'd write this to say the show is currently being broadcast on the Hallmark Channel. On our satellite provider (DirectTV) it's on at 10 pm in No. California. Set your Tivo!!
42 Where's the pilot?
Where's the pilot? I'm not talking about Janine Turner's (Maggie)character. But, what happened to the introductory episode when Joel thinks he is going to Anchorage and ends up in Cicely. Are we suppose to buy it in a separate package from Universal? Luckily I have most of the episodes on VHS, but I'm willing to shell out the money to get them all on DVD, especially the first three seasons, which were the high point to my tv viewing. Each episode was like watching an independent film nugget.
43 Where's the Beef?
Norther Exposure is probably one of the best cast, best written, & best Location-scouted TV shows ever aired. My wife & I eagerly awaited for the show's arrival to DVD. When we purchased the show--for an outrageous $50.00--we were shocked at what we received. Yes, the innovative packaging was fun, but it hid the fact that there was nothing inside. As others have noted, the price is horrible when you realize that there were on 8 episodes! What makes it worse is that there is absolutely no information included. No booklet with stills from the show, no list of episodes, nothing at all. On top of that, they do not even give you multiple discs, they give you cheezy 2 sided discs with 2 shows on each side. What were they thinking? Others have noted that seasons 1 & 2 should have been combined. I agree. If you are a fan of the show & want the episodes from season 2, you'll get reamed gain... there are only 7 episodes!
44 Great TV you can't find these days.
I am giving this DVD 5 stars because that's what the show is worth. You can't find TV like this now days and perhaps never will again. I have watched late night re-runs and fell in love years ago. I cannot wait to revisit Sicily Alaska again.
The 1st season is only 8 episodes so yeah it is a little short. I can guarantee it will only leave you wanting more though. Because the show is so amazing I am not to concerned about price. I am crossing all fingers and toes that they will release the rest of the seasons on DVD or I will be forced to buy the A&E VHS copies.
45 Northern Exposure--The ultimate TV show!
I remember watching the TV show when it was in it's 2nd or 3rd season and I became completely hooked on it. I'm very glad I got this DVD that contains the entire 1st season of shows and the extra goodies that come with it. I can hardly wait for the 2nd season to be released on DVD.
46 Close, but not enough.
This was great. My friends were able to see how the story all started and I got to see it all over again. But only 8 episodes, I would agree with other reviewers, they should have gave the first two seasons. Definitely better than a lot of other TV to DVD issues out there right now.
47 Is it worth the price?
Yes and no.
If you are a diehard fan, obviously it is worth it. The packaging is fantastic (probably where most of the cost comes from) and the extras are interesting, though not particularly compelling.
However, if you enjoyed the series and are considering purchasing some but not all of the episodes, wait until the third season is released. While the show is great from the beginning, it didn't really hit its stride until the third (and first full-length) season.
I hate to dissuade people from purchasing this set, but it's just not worth the price for eight episodes.
48 Wow!!! This is long worth the wait!
I am so thrilled to be able to watch my favorite characters on TV again. I have been going through Northern Exposure withdraw ever since my home recorded VHS tapes wore out. Season one was a short season, but I gladly fronted the money to get the story from the beginning. My only concern is finding out when season two will be released! I hope they don't wait too long. I have already watched each season one episode several times!
49 Great Show but Terrible DVD
OK, the 1 star is not because I don't like Northern Exposure. On the contrary. The one star is for the pathetic organization of this DVD.
Not only is this DVD too overpriced for 8 episodes (give me a break!)
It is incoherently organized on two sides of each DVD, which are not clearly marked.
I was willing to overpay for the DVD. But aren't we, the fans, entitled to a quality DVD in exchange?
50 Worth Having For Now
Northern Exposure was one of the best television shows since humans mastered electricity but the DVD product is flawed.
-Two double sided disks instead of four single sided. Since they are double-sided the labeling of the disks is confusing. Labels are in the margins of the interior hole and what is Labeled Disk One Side One means the disk has to be played upside down with the label for Side Two visible to see the episode on Side One.
-I agree with everyone else that 8 episodes is too few to pay for this amount. Since Season Two is also short would be better to combine.
-Parka packaging is cute for five seconds but skip it and lower price.
I've noticed that DVD releases never seem to be the definitive release and a few years later the studios come out with new packaging and bonus material in order to encourage us to buy the same stuff over again. Any bets on whether this will be the case with NEX?
51 Leaves you clammoring for more!
As a true fan of this show,I was really excited that the first season had finally been released on DVD. This show has some of the finest writing I've seen on TV (along with today's Six Feet Under). The problem? Where are all the episodes? The first season's purchase only contains eight. Come on Universal Studios or whoever you are, quit holding back!
52 Thank you - finally!
The DVD compliation isn't as slick as it could have been but thank God Universal finally released the show on DVD for the US. Now, please get moving on the rest of the episodes!
53 RELEASE SEASON 2 NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Universal, we're obviously all [prostitutes]for "Northern Exposure" and will pay however much you charge for each season, regardless of quality and quantity of episodes. Just SPEED UP THE PROCESS! Teasing us with an 8 episode package is pretty damn cruel too, man. Definately would have been better to combine seasons 1 and 2. However, hurry up and get season 2 ready and rolling! What are you waiting for???
54 Could be better.
Universal should have put more into the contents as they did in the packaging! The disc are double sided with two episodes on each side.Also the menu screen comes up with no intro! Its great for fans but also a real disapointment.
55 A great show about interesting people
I finally broke down and took the suggestions of other reviewers. I purchased the DVD at Costco (thanks!) and discovered everyone was correct. The dvd's are labeled incorrectly, there's a mountain of ads to get to the pilot, etc, etc. The bottom line, however, is that this is a GREAT show! It would be impossible to write about how many ways in which this show influenced my life. I think the greatest lesson I took from the show was to embrace life and celebrate the quirkiness of individuals. I am a woman pilot who wishes I had the tenacity and grit of Maggie to live out my dream of being a damn good bush pilot and damn good (and strong) woman in AK. I really hope Northern Exposure fans embrace the first season dvd release because hopefully it will lead to the release of future seasons on dvd (albeit at better prices and with no flaws!).
56 WE care - why don't you?
Northern Exposure has long been a favorite of mine. I found
it on re-runs one nite - and got hooked. While in Oregon,
I found sale tapes and taped ( I think ) almost 110 episodes.
Now it's on DVD. What's up?? The episodes are not in order
- the pilot is missing - possible the most important episode,
and all the "extras" repeat. What a waste. Without all that
junk - the powers that be might have arranged everything in
order. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE Put the entire
collection on DVD.
I KNOW I'm not alone - Do something. We are starviing.
And take the time to do it right. Thank you. (...)
I would have used 5 stars- the show is worth it - the production of the DVD leaves much to be desired.
57 So I'm not crazy
I thought I had lost it when I didn't see the first episode on what was labeled Disk 1 Side 1! I am willing to forgive the technical difficulties if they promise to release every single eposide on DVD! I will buy every single one.
58 Excellent Series....BUT...
I loved this series. After watching the DVD set I still love it. However the DVD has issues..... First off its rediculously priced.. Second I think the jacket cover is great! Third - Was this dvd made in someones garage?? The disc are all mislabled Side 1 disc 1 is really side 2 disc 1 and so on for both discs. Whats even worse is that there is no episode list in the cd package anywhere, so you can get the episodes in order... BIG DUHHH Factor!
Get it together you boneheads!
Uh, by the way... WHEN THE HELL IS THE NEXT YEAR COMMING OUT?
But I still love the series.....
59 Quality not bad but a few problems
I was lucky enough to have both of the dvds to work. The only issues that bothered me were that the episodes werent in order of showing. The pilot episode is on disc 2...come on put them in order. The only other problem was the edition of 8 episodes. Like another reviewer said..they should have included season 1 and two in chronological order. Other than those two issues it was nice to go back and spend some time in Cicely again :) Looking forward to the rest of the series coming out soon.
60 Sigh...
Having read the complaints of reviewers who received defective sets, and having been the victim of Universal's ineptitude (Monster Legacy Box), I made it a point to watch every digital bit of this set...it wasn't that difficult because there's not all that much material included. Nonetheless, I'm relieved that my set plays perfectly; my condolences to those who weren't so lucky--I feel your pain.
Suffice it to say that I'm delighted that the original music--which is of paramount importance to the enjoyment of this series--is included and I understand that securing the rights was, no doubt, expensive. HOWEVER, I still don't think that justifies the cheesy quality of this release with the exception of the very cute parka which I suspect most of us can live without very nicely, thank you. As other reviewers have noted, there isn't even a chapter listing to be found (would it have been so expensive to have included it on the cardboard backing?), the sides of the first disk are wrongly labeled, and crummy "flipper" disks (can you say "dual-layer?") are used. In addition, there's no mention anywhere that the first season only consists of only eight episodes. In my own opinion, Northern Exposure, not unlike many new shows, didn't hit its stride until its second season which, as I understand it, was also a short one. Surely both seasons could have been combined to form one set that would have been much more entertaining than this one.
The extras are, in my opinion, boring. No interviews with cast/creators. No outtakes that provoked so much as a smile. And let's not forget the plug for other Universal titles that can be fast-forwarded but not skipped. Oh, my.
On the plus side, the quality of the episodes is good; they look and sound fine. And despite the same quibbles I've always had, such as Janine Turner's inability to sound like a native of my own Grosse Pointe ("Ah don't lahk yew, Flahshman.") and Rob Morrow's mispronunciation of REALLY simple words ("calvary" for "cavalry," "waift" for "waft," and "JOHN Hopkins" for "JOHNS"), this still remains one of my all-time favorite shows. This says a lot because I grew up during the Golden Age of television. A smart show that has it all--let's hope that future releases do it justice.
61 Welcome back to Cicely
I loved "Northern Exposure" the first time around and now am thrilled to own the first season on DVD. It is great to get to know the residents of Cicely again and what wonderful characters they are! Dr. Fleischman and Maggie, Holling and Shelley, Soapy Sanderson, Ed, Maurice, ah they are all so fabulous!
My favorite episode on this DVD is entitled "The Russian Flu". All of the town's lively residents come down with the flu at the same time and Dr. Fleischman has to treat them all.
I can't wait for the rest of the series to be released - hopefully the rest of the DVD's will be a little cheaper though. The price is the only downfall this wonderful package has.
62 love it
As a NX fan what can I say but - love it - and am especially fond of my dvd's parka jacket and Moose zip!
The cost doesn't seem excessive to me - I have been buying Poirot and the price is comparable.
Picture quality is great and the sound seems good to me too.
but
why has it taken so long to release this series - and will the other series ever be released - seems NX is still suffering from the same poor management that resulted in it's being cancelled way too early.
Still 5 stars, because it's quirky, witty, intelligent, FUN!
63 original television; great writing
Northern Exposure is my favorite television show ever. I was so pleased to see that the episodes were going to be released on DVD and couldn't wait to get them. I am not disappointed. I can see them in high quality resolution, complete, and with interesting outtakes and such. I had taped some episodes awhile back, but they had been shortened by the television station for time, I believe. It's great to see the whole episodes and to see them from the beginning. I'm really looking forward to the rest of the seasons' release on DVD!
64 Northern Exposure - The Complete First Season
I have waited and waited. Northern Exposure is one of the most entertaining shows that was ever on TV. It's the only TV show that was a comedy, drama, and continuing saga, all at the same time. I only hope that the other seasons are released soon.
65 "Moose burger or caribou dog?"
For six seasons between 1990 and 1995, television audiences were treated to a unique show called "Northern Exposure", whose premise revolved around a recently graduated NYC doctor named Dr. Joel Fleischman (Rob Morrow). To pay for his medical school expenses, Dr. Fleischman entered a financial program created by the state of Alaska on the condition that he would practice medicine in Alaska upon graduation for a specified number of years. Begrudgingly, Dr. Fleischman travels to Alaska believing that he will be working in one of the major cities. Instead, he is required to work in the small and isolated fictional town of Cicely (filmed in the town of Roslyn, Washington), whose residents are rather quirky and which is owned and controlled primarily by a wealthy retired astronaut, Maurice J. Minnifield (Barry Corbin). Other residents of Cicely include Dr. Fleischman's assistant, Marilyn Whirlwind (Elaine Miles), the pilot Maggie O'Connell (Janine Turner), bar owner Holling Gustaf Vincoeur (John Cullum), his girlfriend Shelly Marie Tambo Vincoeur (Cynthia Geary), the somewhat nosy buy very friendly Edward 'Ed' Chigliak (Darren E. Burrows), store owner Ruth-Anne Miller (Peg Phillips, 1918-2002) and the town's favorite local radio DJ Christopher 'Chris' Stevens (John Corbett). Over the course of the series, a tense relationship develops between Dr. Fleischman and Maggie, Maggie's boyfriends continue to accidentally die off, Maurice fights his own inner demons and Dr. Fleischman slowly adjusts to life in untamed Alaska.
Many people were not pleased when "Northern Exposure" was cancelled after its 1994-1995 season, but its 110 episodes are well worth watching. The short first season includes the eight following episodes:
1. "Pilot". Dr. Fleischman arrives in Anchorage, which doesn't need him; but the town of Cicely does.
2. "Brains, Know How and Native Intelligence". Dr. Fleischman attempts to treat Ed'd uncle (Frank Sotonoma Salsedo), a tribal medicine man; and Maurice is not happy to hear revelations about Walt Whitman as read by Chris on Maurice's radio station.
3. "Soapy Sanderson". A hermit, Soapy Sanderson (John McLiam), is convinced by Dr. Fleischman to put his affairs in order with surprising results for Dr. Fleischman and Maggie.
4. "Dreams, Schemes and Putting Greens". Dr. Fleischman gets involved with Maurice's scheme to get Japanese investment in Cicely, and Holling proposes to Shelley.
5. "Russian Flu". One of my favorite episodes, all the residents of Cicely become ill and Dr. Fleischman learns a few things about traditional Native American medicine.
6. "Sex, Lies and Ed's Tapes". The relationship between Holling & Shelley is rocked, Ed suffers writer's block and Maggie and her boyfriend Rick (Grant Goodeve) worry about "Maggie's curse".
7. "A Kodiak Moment". Maurice wants to adopt Chris, and tension rises between Fleischman and Maggie when she takes over his childbirth class.
8. "Aurora Borealis- A Fairy Tale for Big People". Strange behaviors erupt in Cicely with the northern lights, and Fleischman is rescued by a man (Adam Arkin) that nobody thinks exists.
"Northern Exposure" was a truly wonderful show. The first season DVD set includes all eight episodes, as well as deleted scenes from each of the episodes. Though the set is a bit pricey, I rate it overall with 5 out of 5 stars and highly recommend it. After "Northern Exposure", John Corbett portrayed the character "Ian Miller" in the 2002 film "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" and the character "Aiden Shaw" in several seasons of the HBO TV show "Sex and the City" (1998-2004).
66 Great show, but horribly overpriced DVD's
The 'one star' rating is no reflection on the show itself, which is wonderful. The problem, as nearly everyone has already pointed out, is the price. Can't imagine how they had the nerve to charge so much for 8 episodes...unless they think the parka is worth $25 or so...
67 Great show, but this is TOO EXPENSIVE!!!!
Hey, Northern Exposure fans, let's wake up!! I love the show and have been a big fan since it premiered in 1990. I still have my old VHS tapes from 1990 onward when I taped this show off the air. But this 2-DVD set is ridiculously expensive for eight episodes. I've bought other DVD sets containing 20+ hours of a series for similar prices. Why are we paying this much? Sure we love the show, but they could have put both Season One and Season Two in the same set, especially if they're going to keep up this double-sided disc ripoff. The outer orange-thermal packaging is eye-catching at first but an annoyance afterward, and does nothing but to wrap up the normal DVD box inside. There's no chapter index on the packaging either--for a disc set that costs this much, that's a poor oversight. And why should we have to go through promos for other DVD releases at the start of this? Sure, we can fast forward through it, but why are the promos there at all?
Last, my DVD set was defective and I couldn't access some of the special features. I returned my set for a replacement.
Sure I bought it, and Northern Exposure is one of my favorite series. But I think we as fans are being ripped off big-time by the price of this set. 5 stars for the series, zero stars for the producers of this DVD.
68 If you're a fan, buy it, if not, buy it for us who want more
This is to be in conjunction with other reviews, since this is not complete.
After reading the reviews so far of this long awaited release I think it is clear to be precise in saying that it is worth every cent and then some, since well, it is the best show ever, but it is understandably over priced if you don't agree with it being the best show made thus far. I am in college and can't afford much at times, but I made sure I could get this and I have not been disappointed. The fact that I don't have to watch the crummy recordings I have makes the little annoyances of the marketing, packaging, and whatever you all want to gripe about tolerable. If another show I would give it four stars for the facts of the 'problems' and pricing if you know nothing of the show and browse reviews to base purchases, but the show is incredible and brilliant in it's overall design and orchestration of events, stories, and of course, characters. The blend of myth, lore, and reality in such a setting is powerful enough to make Roslyn a Mecca for us fans from around the world. I went a few years ago and in what was Ruth Ann's store there is a map and book of people who have visited from everyplace and more that the show was aired. That has to say something. The show is that inspirational and appeals that much to so many. So buy it! That way those corporate marketing people will release the rest of the seasons for us who just simply love the show and can appreciate the convince and quality of DVD, and the bonus material, which I like. Oh, and compared to buying them on VHS, this is cheap! And I like the Parka! Come on, it's a Parka! For a DVD!
69 Worth every penny!
Awsome! Do not listen to anyone if they say this dvd is a let down. It is incredible. Northern Exposure Rocks harder then ever on DVD!
70 A great show -- why can't they package it correctly?
Like many others here, I've been waiting (patiently but anxiously) for the DVDs of Northern Exposure, my favorite show ever. And I was charmed, I'll admit, by the external packaging (the mini down jacket).
But it's all downhill from there:
* Package includes only two two-sided DVDs, despite the fact they're charging such a high price for just 8 episodes.
* Episodes are completely out of order. The pilot episode, for example (which sets up the premise of the show) is on the reverse side of disc 1.
* WHY WHY do they torment us with those darned previews? I UNDERSTAND why they include previews on a CURRENT movie release that they're going to sell to me cheap. But don't make us fast-forward through previews on a 13-year-old show that's being sold at a premium price!!!
* IF YOU OWN A LASONIC PLAYER, READ THIS. Side 2 of Disc 1 is apparently unplayable on my all-region DVD player (a Lasonic DVD-8090: I receive a "data error"). This happened on two copies of the show. I returned my first copy assuming the disc was damaged; when my second copy also failed, I decided to test it on a standard player (where it worked fine).
In all, a sloppy marketing and manufacturing job. Disappointing for such a great show...
71 Just a Tempting Morsel
Wonderful to have this unique show on DVD, but I agree with others, too much denero for too little cinnema (half a season).
I love the show and hope that more will follow, minus the orange fake down jacket for less $ or add more episodes.
The special out takes were nothing Special. Just stuff they seemed to have picked up off the cutting room floor. What happened? My partner got 20 plus episodes of Angel for the same $$, of course that's comparing quirky with demons...
Hopefully, more will follow.
72 Fantastic!
I didn't see Northern Exposure until the end of the run, but really enjoyed it! My wife and I are "pining away" for the new DVD releases of all the episodes. We liked the character development and the wonderful acting, and the authentic feel of Alaska. Adam was great! We're looking forward to much more.
73 Finally!!!!!
No one can argue that from the very first episode you knew this was a special show. There is something about watching Northern Exposure that I find very relaxing and soothing. Please put out the next seasons soon, there is so much more to come!! Every episode with "Adam" is wonderful and my all time favorite episodes are "The Big Feast" and "Jesse". You cannot miss with owning Northern Exposure on DVD, one of the best shows ever.
74 PLEASE DON'T DILLY-DALLY
When we rec'd Season 1, we sat right down & watched it! My 80-something mother loved it...my husband loved it....& I REALLY ENJOYED/LOVED IT! Please don't dilly-dally releasing future seasons -- don't want to wait too long! Our only gripe is given that the first two seasons were short, they could easily have released the 15 episodes in one set....oh, well....marketing has taken over the world - in the U.S. at least.
75 Northern Exposure - The Complete First Season
This is a great start - but too cruel to end with Adam's first episode! Please put out the rest of the seasons soon!!
76 only 8 episodes
I would have given it 5 stars, however, it hurts to spend a lot of money on a cute marketed DVD and only get 8 episodes. They should have combined seasons, one and two. It irritates me to think that the second season will probably cost the same and again only 8 episodes. PLUS having to wait a bit of time before I can order them.
77 Welcome To Cicely
Northern Exposure is a rare, truly original series. The show follows the experiences of transplanted New Yorker, Joel Fleischman (Rob Morrow) in the Alaskan town of Cicely, where the citizens are some of the strangest people on earth. Joel is baffled by the quirks and oddities of locals and it doesn't get any better for him as he is bound for four years of indentured service as repayment for a loan to go to medical school. Despite the quirks, the people of Cicely are warm and caring people. Its that soft undertone that helps keep Northern Exposure from tipping over the edge of being just plain weird. The only drawback to the collection is that since the first season was a midseason replacement, it is a scant eight episodes. It would have been nice to see this and the second season packaged together.
78 This DVD set lacks integrity
First let my state that NE is one of my all time favorite shows and I longed for this to be released on DVD. Finally it appeared and I diligently snapped it up the moment I saw it! I just watched most of the set and I was glad to see this beloved series again but there are several flaws in the DVD package that serve only to irritate me. I appreciate the deluxe package, but attention should have been focused on the content rather than the style of the presentation. The ISSUES: 1) While I've seen EVERY episode of Northern Exposure more than once I don't actually remember the order they occured - an episode list in chronological order would have been nice. Neglecting to list the shows was most likely done intentionally to make customers think there were more than 8 episodes included in season one. 2) You can't skip the dang previews! I have NEVER watched a set of previews that inflicts itself on me - I simply FF (or preferably SKIP) right through them. I have however watched many previews that are placed conveniently on my DVD for me to view at my leisure by those who respect me and my postion as their customer. 3) One side of my set had to be argued with to work and even then I only coaxed 3/4 of the "aurora borealis" episode out of it until it fried again. One reviewer stated that only 3 sides worked from his set - I thought the same until I tried it a few times and it magically appeared (I have a fairly good sony DVD player purchased only two months ago so that wasn't the cause...). Basically I'll be returning my DVD tomorrow as it's faulty, but I haven't decided yet if I'll simply exchange it or get my money back... I do love this series and it was sure nice to see it again, but I really feel that the DVD set was cheaply made and very shifty in it's presentation. Frankly I'd really prefer all the shows in an accessible, quality format rather than some lame sheme to extort money through shoddy marketing and deceptive, manipulative packaging... And I would PAY for a solid DVD set! Universal Studios take note!
79 Don't Get Too Excited about Future Releases...
I remember this show (the greatest show ever created) was running on A & E. After the program, they would offer the complete first season (on VHS of course..this was pre-2000) to buy. I don't ever remember seeing them offer seasons 2-6. But, who knows, maybe we will see the entire 110 episodes offered on DVD format in the distant future. *crosses fingers*
As for this set..I think it's a bit pricey..but I'm a NX nut..so I didn't mind paying for it!
On DVD's: to quote a woody allen movie (originally talking about LP's adapted to CD's), DVD's "sterilize the sound." Yes, the pictures are great, and the discs will last a lifetime if properly cared for, but the VHS copies I made of this show from TV have better sound. By better sound I mean: I can hear the songs clearly playing in the background. Or, I don't have to adjust my stereo's volume up and down between non-musically accompanied conversation and full volume musical numbers. But, I guess it's the wave of the future..either join or be left behind...no matter how substandard the quality of what you're over-paying for is.
80 Poor Form
Let me first apologize to all the furious Northern Exposure fans for the single star rating. I know that's going to burn some people. But Amazon asks for a review of the DVD, and this a honest rating of this DVD set.
The show itself deserves five stars, of course. But you already knew that. There are few people out there who are going to buy this set having never seen the show.
So, to be blunt, this DVD set is really a piece of garbage. It appears that absolutely no thought was put into making it. Well, perhaps they thought about how cheaply they could make it. But that's about it. The weak points:
1. You only get eight episodes. While I know the first season only has eight episodes, it is deceptive to market like other seasons that contain 20 or more epsiodes. Why not combine the first two seasons on one set? Better to rip off the fans, of course.
2. There are only two double-sided discs in the set. This is inexcusably cheap. It is also unecessary, since they could easily fit four episodes on one side of a disc. (Especially since they lack any substantial bonus materials.)
3. Here is my biggest gripe. There are mandatory previews to watch at the beginning of the DVD!!! When I say mandatory, I mean your remote control is locked out, and you have to sit and watch the previews EVERY TIME you put in the disc. Now, before anyone contradicts me, I acknowledge that you can fast forward. But you cannot chapter-skip ahead or jump straight to the main menu. What this does is essentially reduce the DVD medium into an glorified VHS tape. With all the unlimited possibilities of DVDs, this studio gives us almost no bonus materials and decides instead to force us to watch their crappy previews. What's next, Pepsi commercials?
You would think with piracy alledgedly being such a problem for these studios, they would make more of an effort to make a product people would be happy to pay for.
Instead they give us what amounts to a VHS tape on a disc, poorly designed, and cheaply made. Fans who supported this show deserve better. And consumers buying this set deserve better.
81 Quality not quantity...
Sure the packaging is OTT, and it's expensive, and it's annoying having to flip the discs, and there are only 8 episodes, etc. etc. But looking past all that, in terms of quality what we have here is so far beyond all the dross currently on television that we should celebrate the privilege of being able to see this superb series once again, in pristine colour and clear sound. Roll on the other seasons - and soon!
82 No complaints here
I'm not complaining because my favorite tv show ever is finally finding its way to DVD. Hallelujah! And do they ever look good. Bright, crisp and in tact. It's great fun to once again visit Cicely, Alaska and all it's quirky residents. Sure, it was a bit expensive but I found it at Circuit City for $34.95 which is a heck of a lot less than I could have paid. Can't wait for season 2, 3, 4, etc.
83 Best Television series ever finally makes it to DVD!
A few annoyances which have already been stated but all in all, it was a pleasure to re-visit Cicely! In all honesty I would have rather paid a little less for standard packaging, after all, it's the content that makes this show so great.
Keep them coming please!
84 Great despite the flaws
I agree completely with some others who have written reviews that 8 episodes is weak. They could have learned a lesson from Homicide: Life on the Street, who released a combined DVD package of the first two seasons. Additionally, I find the deleted scenes entirely useless. TV shows need to be edited for time through a natural process because of the format, unlike in film, in which the artistic decisions are more of a factor in deciding what stays and what goes (or so one would hope.) The strength of this DVD collection is simply that the original show was so terrific, groundbreaking, smart, and funny. The show is the star of this DVD package, not the packaging and 'extras.'
85 a cold blast from the past
One can only hope that the television/DVD gods will release the remaining seasons on DVD soon. Great writing & acting - quirky, hilarious, smart and witty!
86 I love you, Cynthia Geary!
I've been waiting a long time for these DVDs to come out! And I can't wait to meet Cynthia Geary IN PERSON at Moosefest!
http://moosefest.org
87 A NE fan
This is my first customer review ever, although I read them all the time. First, I love this show and pre-ordered it months ago. I agree about the price and I would trade the parka for a simple episode list (maybe even a brief synopsis) in a second.
However, my big problem is that I returned one set of disks to Amazon because the disk simply hung up in the middle of the Aurora Borealis episode. I have received a replacement and it stops in the same place in the same episode. I find it hard to believe I am the only person who has had this problem. I guess I'll wait to reorder until they work the bugs out. Defective disks anyone?
88 Northern Exposure Rocks!
If you are a Northern Exposure fan, this is a must! The cool orange parker that covers the DVD case is a nifty treat too. My wife & I love this show. What is interesting is that we never saw the pilot or episode 1. It really helped as it helped establish Joel's hatred of his position in Cicily.
As for the person who was complaining about the lack of show in the "Complete First Season" set, I would have to ask how would you add more shows to the first season?
Now we can't wait for Seasons 2, 3... Mike in the geodesic dome. . .
Enjoy!
89 Worth It
I agree that I felt 40.00 was a little steep for only 8 episodes, but I love the show so much I would have paid even more. I figure if paying a little more now, ensures that there will be additioanl Seasons released, I am willing to pay it. I watched the show when it originally aired and I watched at least three cycles of every episode when it was on A&E then Hallmark bought it and stuck it in a drawer somewhere. I had just been really missing it when I saw this DVD was coming out. I live in Washington and have been to Roslyn where NX was filmed and I still have my Chris-in-the-morning t-shirt. I can't wait for all of the rest!!
90 It Just Doesn't Get Any Better Than This!!!
I was just watching my old (and sparse) video collection of Northern Exposure episodes last year and it struck me how much better this "fine wine" had become over time. The prospect of seeing this remarkable series on DVD had been fairly bleak up to then because of licensing problems related to the soundtrack. Frankly, I had given up hope.
Watching Northern Exposure on DVD is a completely new experience. The picture and sound quality is simply incredible. And I had forgotten just how important the music tracks were to the story. You've got to salute Universal for doing this right. And, as others have pointed out, this is the reason for the hefty price tag.
This is one of the most important additions to my DVD collection. Northern Exposure isn't just a TV series. It transcends both television and cinema as a poetic statement about the human condition. What is captured here is that which has eluded most artists, writers, philosophers, musicians and filmmakers. This is the holy grail of storytelling with a human face, stretching from the Northern Lights into inner space. I never get tired of going to Cicely, Alaska, or watching its characters and scenery in the turmoil and beauty of life, literally relishing each frame of video second by second.
Okay. Enough hyperbole. What's really great about these 8 episodes is that you have the initial working seeds for the entire series. Everything you've got to know about these characters...Fleischman, Maggy, Shelly, Holly, Maurice, Chris, Ed, et al...is right here in these 8 episodes. My favorite episode is the very first appearance of Adam. Watching the interaction between Adam (the recluse hermit and Vet) and Joel (the yuppie doctor) is simply amazing.
I always found myself wanting to kick Joel for being such an ass. But character development is the whole point of Northern Exposure, and it's simply wonderful watching Dr. Fleischman change throughout the series, and how Maggie plays off of this character. I still have the later video where Maggie and Fleischman actually...well, don't let me give away any spoilers if you're new to the series. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
Finally, STOP BASHING UNIVERSAL!!! People, this DVD set MUST sell in order to give the company a return on its investment. It's all about economy of scale. Not putting Northern Exposure on DVD is a crime. But us not buying this for ourselves and posterity is also a crime. Blame the music companies for sticking it to Universal (and everybody else too). I will grant you that I could have done without the parka packaging; they should have put those dollars into a show guide and DVD labels on 4 DVDs (rather than the two double-sided DVDs, which just makes them more prone to DVD rot if you don't handle with care).
To put Northern Exposure into perspective, I generally like all kinds of genre: action, comedy, fantasy, historical, science fiction, musicals. I would place Northern Exposure at the very top just on its entertainment value alone. The fact that it is also insightful, endearing and intelligent is just amazing.
91 One show that deserves DVD treatment
Northern Exposure had a limited first season run as a summer series but these first 8 may be some of the best episodes of the series. It's a treat to see them here uncut with a few extras that really add to the fun.
Some have complained that only 8 episodes are on these disks but that's explained above. Some internet talk back and forth provides explanation for some of the complaints you may see in these reviews.
First, the cost is likely due to the fact that the distributors wanted to keep the original music from the show and that adds to the expense of the disks. This is a problem that apparently has slowed or halted the release of another great series that should be on DVD - WKRP in Cincinnati. Apparently those producers never gave much thought to releasing these on VHS (some episdoes were on VHS) or DVD and so are now stuck because of the huge cost of the royalties needed to keep the original music played in the series. Northern Exposure would still be excellent but would not be great without the original music.
Second, why not include both first and second season in one set since both had a limited number of shows made? Cost is sited as a reason here, too. However, rumor on the internet has it that Universal will release a set of both seasons some time before the end of the year as soon as the royalty issue can be worked out. Supposedly, this set will have episode commentary on it as well as other features. We'll see.
Regardless of these issues, this is a good set and a great show. There are a few things about the show that, over time, could have improved it immensely. But I don't want to concentrate on that here.
The story of Dr. Joel Fleischman's exile to Alaska to fulfill the requirements of the loan that put him through med school is the reason for our visit to Cicely, Alaska. However, the series takes off from there and builds into characters and situations that go beyond Joel's plight.
Rob Morrow is excellent as the good doctor bringing humor and desperation to a character thrown into the unknown and Barry Corbin plays the eccentric Maurice Minnefield, astronaut, visionary and entrepreneur to perfection. Janine Turner as Maggie is both sexy and tough. John Corbett's Chris is the epitome of the quirky Cicelian character and plays some really eclectic tunes on the radio. John Cullum plays a terrific Holling Vincoeur, owner of the best tavern/restuarant in town and lover to cute Shelly Tambo (Cynthia Geary). Geary is good as the young vixen that charmed two older hearts and adds an unusual perspective to the show. Darren Burrows makes the young native American Ed into a solid character who brings depth to the scenes in which he is featured as the soul of Cicely. Elaine Miles is a novice actor but that lack of experiene only adds to the charm of her character, Marilyn. Peg Phillips doesn't have a lot to do as Ruth-Anne at first but creates a realistic character who can be a bit grating but also compassionate.
It's interesting to see some of the deleted scenes that have been added to the disk but the "gag" scenes are often priceless and show the cast having fun with a show that was unique and that wasn't guaranteed a time slot when it first came out.
If the rumors are true, it may be better to wait for the combined set. But if you are like me and couldn't wait to finally see this on DVD buy it now and enjoy a visit to Cicely.
92 Yessss!
We waited years for this... and we were not disappointed.
I don't care if the discs are mislabled (they are, btw)
I don't care if there are only 8 episodes
I don't care if it costs me $44 (i would have paid $100)
We were just soooo glad to get the DVDs. We enjoyed every minute. We can't wait for more.
93 Northern Delight
I thought I would take the opportunity to correct some erroneous information out there about the new Northern Exposure dvd. It does include the pilot episode, but for whatever reason the dvd's (at least mine) are marked incorrectly. All 8 episodes are on two discs. 2 episodes on each side. The pilot is in fact on Disc 1, side 2 (rather than side 1 as you would expect). I think this error in printing the dvd's has lead some folks to believe that there was no pilot included when in fact there is! Same goes for the second disc. The final episode of season 1 is on disc 2 (side 1) rather than disc 2 side 2 as you would expect. So, you run the risk of not seeing the episodes in the correct order. Having said this, it is fabulous to finally see Northern Exposure again. Can't wait for season 2!
94 Good but....
I love NX so much that I paid the HIGH price for these DVDs. I really enjoy watching it, it is really good, but I would have appreciated more episodes or a lower price.
If your an NX fan buy it if you can afford it.
95 Northern Exposure the complete first season
This is a great DVD. I missed the first season. The Astronaut wants to adopt Chris? The foundations of The Dr. and Maggie, and so much more. If you loved the series, this is a must have.
96 Stellar Television - A Must Have!
Perhaps I am one of the first true NX diehards to review this DVD. I have owned it since the day it was released, and have watched it multiple times. The bottom line is Northern Exposure represents a zenith in television writing and storytelling. DVD simply brings all the richness and texture this wonderful niche of life deserves. NX is a vacation from the sham and drudgery of our daily lives, and should compel us all to demand more from today's television. After all, isn't that why we watch?
NX gave us 5 years of complex characters and witty banter that is as close to theater as TV can come.
Speaking of demanding, I strongly recommend buying this DVD, but also suggest writing Universal about improving production. There have been multiple complaints, so I went back and reviewed my original CBS series VHS tapes versus the DVD. Here is what I found:
1) The music is all original (Kudos Columbia)
2) No scene's are missing, though some Intro scenes have been moved after the title song (Boo Columbia)
3) The DVD's are mislabeled, and no liner notes (Boo Columbia)
4) Original credits font changed (???)
5) Dobly Surround 2.1 (Boo - c'mon and make this 5.1 if your paying all the royalty fees for the music)
The next DVD can be perfection with a modicum of production improvement. Let me just say that diehards really want the original preserved just as it was, with no changes. Just like classic cars!
LET THE SERIES ROLL!
97 2 stars because the DVD format needs work...
I loved this show and the DVD's do give that to me. However I hate 2 sided discs, it's kind of pricy for the minamilistic extras and only 8 shows. Hopefully Universal will stop being so greedy, or at least give us something that warrants the cost.
98 Great
I love the fact that Nothern Exposure is finally out on DVD. I hate two sided DVD's so the jury is still out on that one but I hope to see more to come...
99 poor treatment for such a fantastic show
just my $0.02 worth...
first off i sincerely hope that the suggestions made here in these pages actually reach the folks who are in charge of Universal.
some real problems i have with the the treatment:
flipper (2-sided) DVD's
confusing labeling as to which side is which on the disc itself
nothing in the way of numbering each episode...
no episode summaries, original air dates, written/directed by...
i didn't exactly expect commentary, but it would have been a nice extra.
the menus are not user-friendly, in my opinion. after watching an episode, it takes you to the deleted scenes menu, instead of the episode menu. no biggie, but its a bit like going around the elbow to get to the arse.
the parka is a nice novelty. but it's just that: fluff.
i hope they do the succeeding seasons justice. it's a shame they did such a slip-shod job on the first one.
100 GREAT, GREAT SERIES...CRAPPY DVD'S
Northern Exposure is on my shortlist of greatest television shows ever (the other shows on the list being MASH, The British Robin Hood series that starred Michael Praed, The Simpsons, Six Feet Under, and the Simpsons). Therefore I am very happy to finally have the first season on DVD. One only wishes that this great show could have gotten the treatment that its superior quality deserves.
To begin with...even though the first season only comprises eight episodes. And despite the shoddy way the DVD's are put together, this set still warrants acquiring (even if Universal does not deserve money for the product).
Northern Exposure is a series that was "on" from the beginning. The Caricaturization so often found in first seasons is almost completely lacking. The plot picks up and takes off.
Most of this is due to one of the greatest ensemble casts of all time (John Cullum and John Corbett lead a long list of my favorites). This cast, wedded with excellent writing, made Northern Exposure a truly transcendent show from the very beginning.
Why then the crappy treatment?
I don't mind the parka-packaging. However, I would willingly trade it to not have to deal with flipper discs and previews I am forced to fast-forward through rather than skip. It is even more annoying that there is not a printed list of which episodes are on which discs (this could confuse some--particularly with the flipper discs).
Sixty bucks is a bit much to shell out for something as poorly put together as this DVD set. Yet, the episodes are worth acquiring--any way you can.
I recommend these episodes. I also heartily recommend someone at Universal pull their heads out of wherever they stuck it.
This series deserves more.
