Firefly: The Complete Series [DVD]

Firefly: The Complete Series [DVD]

*New-Sealed/Unopened

With the 2005 theatrical release of Serenity, it became evident that Firefly was a science fiction concept deserving of a second chance. Devoted fans, also known as "Browncoats," had long recognized this, and now, with the availability of this comprehensive DVD set, those who missed the original broadcasts of the show have the opportunity to experience what they had missed. Joss Whedon, the creator of this ambitious science-fiction Western series (his third endeavor after Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel), saw Firefly abruptly canceled after only 11 of its 14 episodes had aired on the Fox network. However, hindsight has revealed that the premature demise of the show was truly regrettable. Whedon's innovative fusion of genres faced challenges initially when network executives insisted on a high-action one-hour premiere ("The Train Job"), rather than the intended two-hour pilot (also named "Serenity," which interestingly served as the final aired episode), which provided a better introduction to the show's concept and its outstanding ensemble cast.

While some may debate the unconventional combination of spaceships and direct parallels to frontier America in the series, Whedon and his talented team of co-writers and directors successfully created a believable context by blending past, present, and future technologies, along with a diverse language melding English with Chinese slang, reflecting the influence of two dominant superpowers. The key to this success lies in Whedon's meticulously selected cast and the development of their nine distinctive characters, forming a tightly-knit, diverse family unit that offers unique perspectives on their adventures aboard Serenity, the beloved yet worn "Firefly-class" starship they call home.

Centred around the character of Serenity captain Malcolm Reynolds, portrayed by Nathan Fillion, a veteran of the Independent faction's struggle against the planetary Alliance, the crew navigates a morally grey universe, taking mercenary jobs for survival. However, the show's narrative delves deeper into themes of morality, peace, and violence, portraying a complex interplay of right and wrong. The series hinted at intriguing plotlines involving Blue Sun, a sinister mega-corporation with connections to the Alliance, and the use of Serenity's resident stowaway (Summer Glau) in advanced warfare experimentation, indicating exciting revelations that sadly never materialized due to the show's cancellation.

Thankfully, the subsequent big-screen adaptation, Serenity, allowed Whedon's imaginative extraterrestrial frontier to continue its story, ensuring that Firefly had not yet seen its final chapter. Its continued presence serves as a reminder of Fox's regrettable decision to cancel the series, as these 14 episodes, along with engaging bonus features, stand as undeniable proof of the show's enduring value. --Jeff Shannon

Product Description Episodes:

• -Serenity-part 1 & 2 -- Air date 12/20/02
• -The Train Job -- Air date 09/20/02
• -Bushwhacked -- Air date 09/27/02
• -Shindig -- Air date 11/01/02
• -Safe -- Air date 11/08/02
• -Our Mrs. Reynolds -- Air date 10/04/02
• -Jaynestown -- Air date 10/18/02
• -Out of Gas -- Air date 10/25/02
• -Ariel -- Air date 11/15/02

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