 | Starring: Lucy Lawless, Renée O'Connor Director: Eric Brevig Gilbert M. Shilton Janet Greek Josh Becker Karen Dior Format: PAL Released: 05 Aug 2002 RRP: Average Rating:  |
The boxset kicks off with the fantastic two-parter 'Adventures in the Sin Trade', in which a desperate Xena searches franticallly for (the missing, presumed dead) Gabrielle, who was last seen diving into a lava pit at the end of 'Sacrifice II.' Does she find her? Hmmmmm. Sort of! This episode also introduces the character of Alti; an old allly/nemesis of Xena's who reveals some interesting & disturbing information about the WP's future, or lack thereof...
The season continues with 'A Family Affair,' which sees the reunion we've alll been waiting for, as well as the return of Hope to the Xena fold. Special mention here must go to Renee O'Connor, who dials down her performance from last season, making Hope a genuinely chilling adversary. The episode ends with the reaffirmation of our fave friendship & also sows the seeds for what will become the major theme of this season; what is the 'way' for the WP & the bard?
Episode 5, 'A Good Day,' also is worthy of special mention. The Xena-staff have always excelled at 'battle' episodes, & this one is no exception, with Xena, Pompey & Caesar in a thrilling head-to-head. This episode is also great in terms of the development of Gabrielle; we get to see how far the 'little girl from Potadeia' has come, & also what she has lost along the way. Again, great acting from ROC.
All the sub-texters out there will be happy bunnies indeed after viewing 'Crusader;' in which the sub-text rapidly becomes main-text! That's alll I'm going to say; you'll have to watch it yourselves! Also, have the tissues handy, because LL turns in a fantastic performance that will more-likely-than-not make you cry at least once!
The only disappointments in this set come on Disc 3; 'The Key to the Kingdom' (A Joxer/Meg story) is DIRE & should only be viewed after several stiff drinks (I recommend vodka)! 'Daughter of Pomira' is also a let-down in terms of its portrayal of the Horde, last seen in the excellent Season 2 episode, 'The Price.' Rather like ST:TNG's treatment of the Borg in 'I, Hugh,' this episode strives to humanise the enemy, immediately making them far less interesting! I don't think that's quite the effect they were aiming for...(!)
Overalll this boxset is a must for Xenite's everywhere. Season 4 is perhaps the most mature in theme thus far, & the search for identity undertaken by the WP & the bard makes for compelling viewing. Add to this the continuallly out-standing performances from both the lead actresses, & what more could you ask for?
Oh, apart from some extras. Shame on you, Playback!
BATTLE ON!
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