Review: Freaks and Geeks: The Complete Series

Ahhh, the joys of Freaks and Geeks, the show that was cancelled before it's prime (as many other shows have). Why did I become a fan of this show? It was the summer of 2008 and I had just jumped on the Judd Appatow bandwagon. I already loved Superbad and was completely excited for Pineapple Express. Shortly after my viewing of Pineapple Express, I was in a James Franco craze (I tend to be in some 'insert actor name here' craze after every movie I watch.), on the Alkaline Trio Fan Club that I am a part of, I was reccomended Freaks and Geeks due to my James Franco/Judd Appatow addiction.

I watched the show for the first time online and instantly loved it. It's realistic portrayal of high school is amazing, which is odd because it takes place in 1980 and I wouldn't be born for another ten years. It's subtle humor which is definitely shines through the talent of Martin Starr as Bill Haverchuck and Seth Rogen as Ken Miller. Although, the rest of the cast is just as amazing. I can relate to Linda Cardellini as Lindsey Weir as being a nerd and trying to rebel, Jason Segel as Nick Andopolis is just adorable, yet pretty creepy, (hey, I'm probably the only one who thought it was sweet when he went to Lindsey's house in the middle of the night to tell her he wanted to see her face.) and who doesn't love James Franco? He's yummy. It's a great ensemble cast and everyone portrays their character amazingly. Also, Freaks and Geeks could have easily fallen into the typical cliche show about high school, but the show had new and fresh storylines every week. The morals of each episode were also not drawn out in the typical way. It's a shame it was cancelled, probably because it was too smart for it's own good.

As for the DVD package, it's pretty amazing as well. twenty-nine commentaries for eighteen episodes from cast members, the executive producers, fans of the show, etc. You get to hear many different perspectives on the show. They were fantastic commentaries and rather hilarious too. The special features are also amazing; seeing the auditions and deleted scenes were great. Very much worth th 56.99 that I spent for the boxset.

The actual show: 8.9/10
Special Features: 9/10
Packaging: 8/10