Reviews (2)

The saga of Felicy King, Gus Pike, and Avonlea finally ends
When Lucy Maud Montgomery wrote about Sara Stanley and her King cousins in "The Story Girl" and the "Golden Road," her readers came to understand that the high and mighty Felicity King was fated to marry Peter Craig, the hired boy on her father's farm. On the television series "Avonlea," (a.k.a. "Road to Avonlea"), the character of Peter Craig was phased out but the idea of the fate of Felicity (Gema Zamprogna) clearly remained the same, although now with Gus Pike (Michael Mahonen), a young fisherman who arrives in Avonlea and decides to stay, smitten with young Felicity and in awe of school teacher Hettie King (Jackie Burroughs). However at the end of season six Gus was believed lost at sea, and when the show came to the end of its seventh and final season, it was necessary to bring their story to a resolution.

The two pivotal episodes are collected on "Return to Me." First up is "Return to Me," which finds Felicity only a few days away from her wedding to Stuart McCrae (David Ferry), the local banker. But then she gets a mysterious phone call that sends her and Aunt Hetty in search of Gus. Amazingly, they find Gus alive in South Carolina. He was not killed in the shipwreck, but he did lose his eyesight. Both Felicity and Hetty insist that Gus has to come home to Avonlea, but he stubbornly refuses. However, there is no way Gus can stand up to two women who are not only more stubborn than he is, but who are the two that he cares most about in the world.

The grand finale is "So Dear to My Heart," where Gus returns to Avonlea and stuns the entire King family. But now the question is whether Felicity will go through with her wedding to Stuart. Meanwhile, in the wake of the disastrous cannery fire, Jasper (R.H. Thomson) and Olivia (Meg Ruffman) have decided to leave Avonlea, which infuriates Hetty so much that she refuses to attend Felicity's wedding. However, this is the final episode of this beloved television series, which means that everybody is going to end up at this wedding (yes, that means everybody including you know who).

Gus being blind is a bit melodramatic for my tastes, but there is such a thing as destiny and the sight of Felicity running through town in her wedding dress to drag Aunt Hetty to her wedding certainly makes up for that. There is really no better final storyline "Avonlea" could have had to bring everything to a close.

A fitting end to a amazing series...
Road to Avonlea~Return to Me, features two episodes from the poplular Disney series Avonlea. Return to Me features two episodes, So Dear to My Heart and Return to Me. Two of the last episodes of Avonlea. In these last two episodes Felicity is engaged to be married to a man named Stuart, when she learns that the love of her life, Gus Pike, is alive. She travels to South Carolina to find him. She then convinces Gus to return to Avonlea with her. A grand wedding takes place in which many characters return to the show. Sara Polley redeams her role as Sara Stanley after a couple years of absence from the show. As well as characters such as Racheal Lynde, Davy and Dora, and Ms Stacy from the Anne of Green Gables Series. This episode is a much have for any fan of the TV show Avonlea or Anne of Green Gables! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Highlander hit full stride here.
The TV series Highlander hit full stride here.

When Highlander arrived on TV, it started out with a good concept (taken from the first film, primarily), a real hero (Duncan - played with great self-assurance by Adrian Paul), but some bumps in the road that gave it a TV feel. This is evident in the first season, as the episodes are hit and miss, and the show wasn't operating on all cylinders until near the end of the season.

In the 2nd year, Highlander hit full stride, and with each successive episode, the series became more compelling. Many episodes from that year are excellent. The full Highlander team had to have known they had a winner, and the creative energy is high. These were the shows that solidified the fan base the show would ultimately have.

The 3rd season picked up right where the second took off, and by now Highlander was thriving, if in relative obscurity. The show had a level of synchronicity and often intensity, that made the very most of the concept. The actors (again, espeically Paul) the writers, and entire crew were obviously very inspired, as they turned out one excellent episode after another. Many of them masterfully interweaved.

The 4th season kept the pattern going. Adrien Paul, by now, WAS Duncan MacLeod - The Highlander. And the Highlander team continued with exploring characters, and changes. While the concept was limited (who will Duncan meet from his past this week?) because of what the cast and crew had working together - the show continued on putting out either excellent, or good shows, with the only flaw being the previously mentioned predictability.

The 5th season found the writers trying to vary the previous season's problems. With many espisodes Duncan more reserved, and sometimes mystical elements involved (which turned some fans off). But the professionalism continued.

By the 6th season, the show was hit and miss, and it seemed at times like it was soon to reach the end (which it did). The final episide was somewhat sentimental, but at the same time, fittingly obscure.

Highlander - Raven continued with the charming character of Amanda. But without Paul, the series didn't have the same backbone, and ultimately waned.

Adrian Paul would later reprise the Duncan MacLeod role in the film Highlander: Endgame, which is the best sequel as the films go (and on par with many TV episodes), but alas, the film did not fair well at the box office, as the previous sequels (2, and 3) were so bad, the mainstream stayed away. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

highlander-ish
It was a fresh, well-written episode although it contradicted the Highlander movies. This episode was fantastic and memorable.

But i'm glad to see the Highlander, immortals and other stuff still survive so the highlander fans' appetite will satisfied.

Highlander: The Gathering
AWESOME. After the firts Highlander movie in 1985, Connor MacLeod returns to action, as he realizes that he is not alone, and that he did not reaceived the Prize, but the Gathering, that Ramirez ones told him about, and the pursuit of the Prize has began in 1985, and it will be end until only one remains. So, Connor goes on search of Slan Quince, an evil and ruthless Immortal, who kills the mortal familys of other Immortals, trying to get them into his search, and winning them because of their phychical weakness (something like that might have happend to Connor in the past). And sfter his wife's death in 1987 by a car accident, and having left Ramirez's sword close to his grave (after he won the man who killed him - The Kurgan), Connor takes an old friend's "Silver Braid" katana, and goes on Seacouver, where he finds again his long-time friend and kinsman Duncan MacLeod, who was born 74 years after him. Duncan, who was also a student of Connor's, is living for the last 12 years with Tessa Noel, a artist. But now, Duncan must re-enter the Game, because if he don't, he must have to face the death of his girlfriend, Tessa.

This special pilot episode introduces to as Duncan MacLeod, a kinsman and student of Connor MacLeod, born in 1592 also in Scotland. Of course, Duncan's character is (not of course entirely) different to Connor's. Adrian Paul purposely made Duncan MacLeod a different man -- more passionate in most areas (love-making, a.o.) -- than Connor. He always wanted his character to be different from Christopher Lambert's character, as opposed to taking over an existing role and this has worked out well. For example: Unlike his kinsman Connor, Duncan has not always been such an active participant in the Gathering.  He lets other Immortals come to him rather than seeking them out. In any case, Connor and Duncan have a unique teacher-friend-student connection (and like Connor and Duncan SSOOO much more than the useles -but impresive- Methos or the boring Joe Dawson). Although, ieven 8 years after it first aired in Sci-fi Channel, this episode deserves many credits - The clothing, the music, the objet d'arts - all draw us in to what promises to be a visual feast. Clearly Connor and Duncan MacLeod are man of wealth and taste. The characters (and the actors they play them-espcially Chrsitopher Lambert and Adrian Paul) themselves are truly beautiful in the classic sense of the word. Slan stands out because he is so physically at odds with the beauty surrounding him (iven Kane in Highlander: The Final Dimension is better than him). He muddies and stains everything he touches. So - the episode satisfies me visually, emotionally and intellectually. Despite some seemingly silly things about the Game, it is enough of a good story to keep my interest. Especially when it flavors the mix with intimations of ethical dilemmas that will face the hero - in his friendships, relationships, obligations and beliefs.

The message is very clear to us - there is so much pain in these people's lives that they studiously seem to avoid letting people get too close to them. Duncan presents two distinct faces to the world. On the one hand he is the serious, no -nonsense business man. He rarely laughs and is very tight. But with Tessa he is a sensual delight. He nuzzles her neck continuously. He touches her and enfolds her and is joyful when he is with her.

So - at the end of this episode, we stand and watch as Duncan MacLeod sets off on his journey. Would I define it as ill-fated? No. He is immortal, as Joe will keep him reminding that in future episodes. He has his own path to travel, his own race to run. In this episode we see them all there, running with him or cheering him on. We know how many times he will fall and how many of those onlookers and supporters will falter along the way - or die.

But we also know, after Not To Be-the 119 and final episode, that Duncan will never, ever, give up.

For more Connor-Duncan interaction, wait until Highlander: Endgame (a sequel to the first and third Highlander movie, and Highlander: The Series) comes out in September 1st.

There Can Be Only One.... Remember that rule?
This first episode of the great TV serie, is by far one the bset episodes of the series, not only because Connor McLeod (the original Highlander, played greatfully by Christopher Lambert) is in it, making with his brief -but welcomed- appearence, a linkage the movies with the series (unlike others television shows, that they are just take the basic theme of the film, and transfered to the series, making with that a GREAT bastardisation of the film), and provides the Immortal universe to the next step. However, this episode (as the whole series does) is centered to Duncan McLeod, a clansmen and student of Connor McLeod, who was out of the Game, and with the help of Connor, he returns in it. Adrian Paul is wonderfull as Duncan McLeod, a character verry different to Connors. Richard Moll is just good, but could be better. This episode, one of the best of the series (along with "Watchers" "The End of Innocense" and others), can be easily called as "The Other Highlander 2", because is verry much better than this AWFULL movie. It has more story, and the developments of the characters are just great. Its easily a better sequel of the original movie than the "Highlander 2: The Quickening"

A surprisingly great transition from film to TV
I was determined to hate this show. I mean, the Gathering was over, almost all of the immortals had been slain, and suddenly there was another Gathering? Whatever. Still, though, the very first episode of this series won me over (and I'm not just saying that because Adrian Paul looks good!). This TV series based on the cult Highlander films does justice to the movies, by including Connor MacLeod in the first episode and continuing on with a very fascinating story. This time, the focus is on Connor's kinsman Duncan Macleod (Adrian Paul), a fellow immortal who has come out of "retirement" to re-join the "game." Duncan spends most of this first season battling various immortals, but at the heart of it is his various relationships with the people he cares about, both mortal and immortal. It displays the problems that immortals must face once they choose to love a mortal, in this case, his relationship with his girlfriend Tessa. They live and grow together as time moves on, proving that "Just one year of love is better than a lifetime alone." In addition to the great cast, there is also the fact that the original music written for the movie by Queen is kept in. That really adds to the authenticity of the piece. I love the TV show and miss watching it, so I'm glad that it's out on video. It's worth buying, trust me.

The student becomes the master
The Highlander Movie series has had many followers. However, for style and sensitivity, the TV series by far surpasses the its origins. Those who have seen the series and continue to watch the series on cable will agree that this series offers depth on many levels. My personal interests are the detailed costuming in the flashback sequences and the character development. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Scraping the barrel, but a good (if confusing) finale
When Highlander arrived on TV, it started out with a good concept (taken from the first film, primarily), a real hero (Duncan - played with great self-assurance by Adrian Paul), but some bumps in the road that gave it a TV feel. This is evident in the first season, as the episodes are hit and miss, and the show wasn't operating on all cylinders until near the end of the season.

In the 2nd year, Highlander hit full stride, and with each successive episode, the series became more compelling. Many episodes from that year are excellent. The full Highlander team had to have known they had a winner, and the creative energy is high. These were the shows that solidified the fan base the show would ultimately have.

The 3rd season picked up right where the second took off, and by now Highlander was thriving, if in relative obscurity. By now Adrian Paul WAS Duncan MacLeod - The Highlander. The show had a level of synchronicity and often intensity, that made the very most of the concept. The actors (again, espeically Paul) the writers, and entire crew were obviously very inspired, as they turned out one excellent episode after another. Many of them masterfully interweaved.

The 4th season kept the pattern going. And the Highlander team continued with exploring characters, and changes. While the concept was limited (who will Duncan meet from his past this week?), as such, we were introduced to the "dark side" of Duncan Macleod. If because of what the cast and crew had working together - the show continued on putting out either excellent, or good shows. While this turn was interesting, the somewhat dark side didn't always click with fans who saw Duncan as a role model and hero.

The 5th season found the writers trying to vary the previous season's problems. With many espisodes Duncan changing (often not using the sword at all), and sometimes mystical elements involved (which turned some fans off). But the professionalism continued.

By the 6th season, the show was hit and miss, and it seemed at times like it was soon to reach the end (which it did). The final episide was somewhat sentimental, but at the same time, fittingly obscure.

Highlander - Raven continued with the charming character of Amanda. But without Paul, the series didn't have the same backbone, and ultimately waned.

Adrian Paul would later reprise the Duncan MacLeod role in the film Highlander: Endgame, which is the best sequel as the films go (and on par with many TV episodes), but alas, the film did not fair well at the box office, as the previous sequels (2, and 3) were so bad, the mainstream stayed away. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Both Felicity King and Aunt Hetty meet young Gus Pike
If you have read "The Story Girl" and "The Golden Road" by Lucy Maud Montgomery, then you know that the fate of Felicity King was that despite her snobbish pretensions and lofty pretensions, she would end up marrying the poor boy who worked on her family farm. In these two episodes from early in the second season of "Avonela," Felicity is introduced to the fork in the road that awaits her, but while the title of the tape is "Felicity's First Date," she is not the character who unites these two episodes:

"How Kissing Was Discovered" begins with Janet King's Great-Aunt Eliza coming for a visit and turning the King household upside down. Meanwhile, Alec discovers that playing cricket is not as easy it was when he was a younger man and Felicity (Gema Zamprogna) has her eye on a young cricket player on the visiting team. After all, she is now all grown up (she is almost a teenager) and has decided it is time to receive her "first kiss." However, Sarah and Felix have made a new friend in Gus Pike (Michael Mahonen), a young sailor recently arrived in Avonlea and looking for work. Alec lets Gus stay in his barn and while Felicity will not give the boy the time of day, it is clear that he finds her rather interesting.

In "Aunt Hetty's Ordeal" the pivotal relationship between Gus Pike and Hetty King (Jackie Burroughs) begins. Given how Hetty treats Sara, Olivia and everybody else in the extended King family, you have to worry about poor, uneducated Gus. The problem is that everybody in Avonlea knows to take Hetty King with a grain or salt. But Gus thinks everything Aunt Hetty says is carved on stone tablets and when Hetty makes a heated offhand remark to the young man it has significant repercussions.

The title of this episode has a couple of meanings. At first we think "Aunt Hetty's Ordeal" is that Muriel Stacey, who has been appointed school superintendent instead of Hetty, is coming for a visit. Hetty thinks it is an inspection, but, of course, it is no such thing. But that does not stop the old hens in town from ruffling Hetty's feathers. Reminded that kids flocked to be in Miss Stacey's school, Hetty goes out to the cannery to recruit and reels in Gus Pike. He can neither read nor write, smokes and plays the fiddle, but he wants to learn and this touches Hetty. Gus had been a minor character in previous episodes, and "Aunt Hetty's Ordeal" is where he starts becoming more important to the show in general (and Felicity King in particular). This is also the point where Hetty King, who tended to be a bit insufferable for my money, started to thaw, because the big difference between Gus and Sara, is that Gus is not family and Hetty ends up opening her heart to him.

These episodes continue the transition from Lucy Maud Montgomery's novels to more original storylines (although clearly Gus Pike replaces Peter Craig in "The Story Girl" and "The Golden Road"). Note: Do not try to figure out how Hetty King and Muriel Stacey are contemporaries and where this all fits in with the Sullivan Productions of the "Anne of Green Gables" books. Hetty has supposedly been teaching forever at Avonlea School and Anne was teaching there a year or two after Miss Stacey. "Avonlea" had a proud history of bringing back both characters and actors from the "Anne" movies and this is just another nice example of the practice.

A WONDERFUL film!
This has two episodes from the 2nd season of ROAD TO AVONLEA which include HOW KISSING WAS DISCOVERED and AUNT HETTY'S ORDEAL. They are two of the best episodes I've ever seen and I recommend this to ANYONE who loves ANNE OF GREEN GABLES or ROAD TO AVONLEA! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Peg Bowen helps Felix, but dad comes to take Sarah home
I do not think Lucy Maud Montgomery ever came up with a more maddening creation that Hetty King (Jackie Burroughs), the self-appointed moral judge of the King clan in Avonlea. Aunt Hetty is in the thick of things for both of the first season episodes of "Avonlea" collected on this third of four videos, "Magical Moments":

"The Witch of Avonlea" is Peg Bowen (Susan Cox), who lives in the woods smoking her pipe and doing whatever she wants with no concern for what the good folks of Avonlea think or say. When Felix King (Zachary Bennett) finds himself unable to spell anything during the class spelling bees because he is so afraid of Aunt Hetty, his nightmares convince him she might be a witch. So he goes off to visit Peg, who gives him a "magic" stone. His confidence restored, Felix wins the school spelling bee and moves on to the next level of competition. If you do not know that he is going to lose the magic stone before the contest then you must be totally unfamiliar with the rules of children's fiction. Meanwhile, the dreams of Felicity (Gema Zamprogna) have their own comeuppance, as events take her down a peg at the same time that Felix enjoys his moment in the sun.

The important episode here is "Nothing Endures but Change," which finds that Blair Stanley, Sara's father, has been acquitted of the scandalous embezzlement charges that forced him to send his daughter to live with her mother's relatives on Prince Edward Island. Blair arrives in Avonlea ready to take Sara (Sarah Polley) back to Montreal, at which point everyone of Sara's King relatives absolutely freaks. None, of course, as much as Hetty, who announces she will not give the child up to her father. Hetty has always blamed Blair for not only taking her sister Ruth away but in living a decadent life (of travel) that resulted in her death (she caught tuberculosis at home in Montreal). Hetty also has a few things to say about what appears to be happening between Olivia and Jasper Dale, which only makes you wonder how Alec ever managed to get away from Hetty's all encompassing powers. Sara wants to say goodbye to all her friends and attend the upcoming skating party she has been looking forward to, but her father wants to get out of Avonlea and as far away from Hetty as quickly as possible. Sara cannot abide the thought that two of the people she loves most in the world cannot even talk to each other civilly, and so she hatches up a plan to force their reconciliation. But these two stubborn adults cannot admit for a second that the other cares as much for Sara as they do, which only means that fate is going to have to take a hand to make things right.

For me the chief charm of "Nothing Endures but Change," certainly the loftiest sounding title in the series, is enjoying Hetty King getting her comeuppance a few times. She really is such an intolerant woman for somebody who does so many unforgivable things. However, her redemption is still down the road, coming in the form of Gus Pike. It is in his unflinching admiration and respect, that Hetty King is finally confronted with a true mirror of her life.

Amazing example of a growing family @the turn of the century
Beautiful two episode tape depeicting the King family's trysts and triumphs at the turn of the century. These episodes were taken from the "Road to Avonlea" television series based on the popular works of Lucy Maude Montgomery. A true and simple tale of an unconfident boy whom enters a spelling Bee, and wins! The latter tale, "Nothing endures but change" tells again of the King family when their beloved and bewitching cousin, Sara Stanley, is taken from Prince Edward island by her father, but runs into an ill-fated accident, which may be the end of our young Sara. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

The trials and tribulations of Rachel and Marilla in Avonlea
I subscribed to the Disney channel just to get to "Avonlea," and even if you have not reading the novels and short story collections of Lucy Maud Montgomery on which the series is "based" you can still enjoy this excellent family series. "Gift of Friendship" is the second of four video tapes from the first season of the series, and contains two episodes featuring the recurring characters of Rachel Lynde (Patricia Hamilton) and Marilla Cuthbert (Colleen Dewhurst), who we first met in the "Anne of Green Gables" mini-series.

"Quarantine at Alexander Abraham's" is one of the best adaptations of a Montgomery short story to the cast of characters on "Avonlea." Standing in for Montgomery's original female protagonist who has to confront confirmed old bachelor Abraham is one of her most beloved supporting characters, Mrs. Rachel Lynde. But this episode is also the first time that Mrs. Lynde takes center stage, which is definitely a treat for her many fans. Mrs. Lynde is put in charge of the boy's Sunday School class and when she finds the young boy who work's Alexander Abraham's farm has gone truant, she heads out to save the boy's soul. Meanwhile, Felix and Sara have run ahead to warn their schoolmate of the impending storm. However, everybody involved is in for a big shock when they all end up in Abraham's home only to discover he has been quarantined because of the small pox. That means this quartet of not too happy individuals are stuck with each other for at least two weeks (to the horror of Felix's mother). Mrs. Lynde decides that she and her two small charges are going to clean the house from top to bottom, no matter what that old curmudgeon has to say, and the war is on.

Next we have "The Materializing of Duncan McTavish," which starts with Sara Stanley not sure she is going to enjoy her first time at the Avonlea sewing circle, since she really does not know how to snow. But then something quite interesting happens. When all the ladies are talking about who had how many beaux way back when, Sara asks Marilla Cuthbert "Did you ever have a beau?" Having endured a lifetime of slurs because she never had a beau after refusing to forgive John Blythe, Marilla defiantly declares "I had one once." In for a penny, in for a pound, Marilla weaves a fantasy about her beau whom she named Duncan, because it is her favorite name, and McTavish, because she sees an advertisement for McTavish Porous Plasters. Everyone is suitable shocked and Marilla cannot imagine what came over her. But as Marilla knows all too well, "if you do wrong, you will be punished for it sometime, somehow or somewhere." Who should arrive in town but Duncan McTavish, to sell his Porous Plasters, and Sara Stanley knows Fate has brought the two former lovers together again. Of course, this is news to the amazed and confounded Duncan McTavish.

Early on with the television series "Avonlea" the idea was clearly to adapt some of Lucy Maud Montgomery's better stories from the two "Chronicles of Avonlea" collections. While something was lost in the translation of "Old Lady Lloyd" from story to television, "Quarantine at Alexander Abraham's" and "The Materializing of Duncan McTavish" are superb adaptations. Plus, you have two of of favorite characters from the Sullivan productions of the "Anne of Green Gables" movies right in the middle of both stories ((Hamilton and Dewhurst were an under-appreciated comedy team when they worked together).

Quality family entertainment!
When our family stumbled upon Tales of Avonlea during it's original Disney airing(1992-96)--we felt like we had struck gold! We purchased 3 of the 4 videos in the prepared set, to add to our family video library, but couldn't find Volume 2--Gift of Friendship--until now, on Amazon Marketplace. Thank you!
The beauty of early 20th century Prince Edward Island sets the stage for lively adventures, and a return to the simple, peaceful life of days gone by. In the first episode of this double feature, young Sara Stanley forges a surprising new friendship, when she and Mrs. Rachel Lind serve as "sisters of mercy together" in unexpected circumstances.
In the second episode, Sara is welcomed into the warm, social "fabric" of Avonlea's ladies' sewing circle--during which a shocking revelation from one of the ladies about a past beau, causes temporary, humorous shockwaves in the town, and also a surprising twist which saves the day.
Each character adds new sparkle and depth to the story, as timeless themes of love, loyalty, friendship, fear and belonging unfold in the lives of these charming Avonlea citizens.

the best tv series
tales from avonlea is the best disney picture ever made

The Entertainer
Having watched this highly-acclaimed show since it's inception in 1990 as a ten-year old boy, I've realized how lucky I truly am to see such fine programming filled with such intriguing plots, unforgettable characters, famous guest stars (Christopher Lloyd won an Emmy for his role in 1992), and touching--but not sappy--moments. My particular favorite episode was when Aunt Hetty went out to "bring in the lost sheep"--and came up with Gus Pike and a HORRENDOUS backache! Unfortunately this series is no longer shown on Disney, but I've recorded almost 40 episodes when they reran some of the episodes in 1996. I promise you this video is worth the money.

Entertaining
Although some of the acting was not as strong as in 'Anne of Green Gables', the two short films presented on the videocassette were charming, and ultimately worth seeing. If you enjoy the Anne series and want more of Avonlea, you will appreciate these films. Not just for children--adults will like them, too. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

An excellent film! A great family friendly show!
This DVD included the first two episodes of "Road to Avonlea" the TV series, or better known in the U.S. as "Avonlea", as aired on the Disney Channel in the 1990's. A touching and family-friendly series about a little rich girl who moves to Prince Edward Island to live with her relatives when her father is accused of embezzlement in his own company. The adventures that this little girl Sara Stanley has with her cousins, (the "King" family) are hilarious and heart-warming! This is definately worth checking out!!

delightful
Excellent for children, found this film to be one you can learn from mistakes,has values presented,happy ending! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Changes in Highlander
A darker look at Duncan MacLeod, that showed variety in the show, if not it's best side.

When Highlander arrived on TV, it started out with a good concept (taken from the first film, primarily), a real hero (Duncan - played with great self-assurance by Adrian Paul), but some bumps in the road that gave it a TV feel. This is evident in the first season, as the episodes are hit and miss, and the show wasn't operating on all cylinders until near the end of the season.

In the 2nd year, Highlander hit full stride, and with each successive episode, the series became more compelling. Many episodes from that year are excellent. The full Highlander team had to have known they had a winner, and the creative energy is high. These were the shows that solidified the fan base the show would ultimately have.

The 3rd season picked up right where the second took off, and by now Highlander was thriving, if in relative obscurity. By now Adrian Paul WAS Duncan MacLeod - The Highlander. The show had a level of synchronicity and often intensity, that made the very most of the concept. The actors (again, espeically Paul) the writers, and entire crew were obviously very inspired, as they turned out one excellent episode after another. Many of them masterfully interweaved.

The 4th season kept the pattern going. And the Highlander team continued with exploring characters, and changes. While the concept was limited (who will Duncan meet from his past this week?), as such, we were introduced to the "dark side" of Duncan Macleod. If because of what the cast and crew had working together - the show continued on putting out either excellent, or good shows. While this turn was interesting, the somewhat dark side didn't always click with fans who saw Duncan as a role model and hero.

The 5th season found the writers trying to vary the previous season's problems. With many espisodes Duncan changing (often not using the sword at all), and sometimes mystical elements involved (which turned some fans off). But the professionalism continued.

By the 6th season, the show was hit and miss, and it seemed at times like it was soon to reach the end (which it did). The final episide was somewhat sentimental, but at the same time, fittingly obscure.

Highlander - Raven continued with the charming character of Amanda. But without Paul, the series didn't have the same backbone, and ultimately waned.

Adrian Paul would later reprise the Duncan MacLeod role in the film Highlander: Endgame, which is the best sequel as the films go (and on par with many TV episodes), but alas, the film did not fair well at the box office, as the previous sequels (2, and 3) were so bad, the mainstream stayed away.

What a brilliant series
Highlander is a wonderful series and season 4 is one of my favorites. Adrian Paul is magnificent as always but really puts in one of his best performances aa the Evil Duncan MacLeod.

Homeland is the first episode that was also directed by Adrian Paul and is set amongst the magnificent scenery of the Highlands of Scotland and shows what a great talent Adrian has not only as an actor but as a director.

Methos is also featured in several episodes along with Joe Dawson, with Amanda also making an appearence there is something for everyone.

Highlander is a great fantasy concept with lots of action and romance. I would recommend this series to anyone who likes action, fantasy and a little romance. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The best of the best...
Season 3 was the best season of Highlander the series. Introducing some new and important characters to the rest of the series. It is one of the most exciting, though I enjoyed all six seasons. We meet Methos and run into some serious villains. The season ends on a really exciting note with a two parter introducing Kallas, an immortal who will stop at nothing to get what he wants, even at the sacrifice of all Immortals and Watchers. A must have for any Highlander fan, Or any fan of Historical Fantasy.

Arguably the best season
Season three is arguably the best season.

When Highlander arrived on TV, it started out with a good concept (taken from the first film, primarily), a real hero (Duncan - played with great self-assurance by Adrian Paul), but some bumps in the road that gave it a TV feel. This is evident in the first season, as the episodes are hit and miss, and the show wasn't operating on all cylinders until near the end of the season.

In the 2nd year, Highlander hit full stride, and with each successive episode, the series became more compelling. Many episodes from that year are excellent. The full Highlander team had to have known they had a winner, and the creative energy is high. These were the shows that solidified the fan base the show would ultimately have.

The 3rd season picked up right where the second took off, and by now Highlander was thriving, if in relative obscurity. The show had a level of synchronicity and often intensity, that made the very most of the concept. The actors (again, espeically Paul) the writers, and entire crew were obviously very inspired, as they turned out one excellent episode after another. Many of them masterfully interweaved.

The 4th season kept the pattern going. Adrien Paul, by now, WAS Duncan MacLeod - The Highlander. And the Highlander team continued with exploring characters, and changes. While the concept was limited (who will Duncan meet from his past this week?) because of what the cast and crew had working together - the show continued on putting out either excellent, or good shows, with the only flaw being the previously mentioned predictability.

The 5th season found the writers trying to vary the previous season's problems. With many espisodes Duncan more reserved, and sometimes mystical elements involved (which turned some fans off). But the professionalism continued.

By the 6th season, the show was hit and miss, and it seemed at times like it was soon to reach the end (which it did). The final episide was somewhat sentimental, but at the same time, fittingly obscure.

Highlander - Raven continued with the charming character of Amanda. But without Paul, the series didn't have the same backbone, and ultimately waned.

Adrian Paul would later reprise the Duncan MacLeod role in the film Highlander: Endgame, which is the best sequel as the films go (and on par with many TV episodes), but alas, the film did not fair well, as the previous sequels (2, and 3) were so bad, the mainstream stayed away. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Highlander Continues
When Highlander arrived on TV, it started out with a good concept (taken from the first film, primarily), a real hero (Duncan - played with great self-assurance by Adrian Paul), but some bumps in the road that gave it a TV feel. This is evident in the first season, as the episodes are hit and miss, and the show wasn't operating on all cylinders until near the end of the season.

In the 2nd year, Highlander hit full stride, and with each successive episode, the series became more compelling. Many episodes from that year are excellent. The full Highlander team had to have known they had a winner, and the creative energy is high. These were the shows that solidified the fan base the show would ultimately have.

The 3rd season picked up right where the second took off, and by now Highlander was thriving, if in relative obscurity. By now Adrian Paul WAS Duncan MacLeod - The Highlander. The show had a level of synchronicity and often intensity, that made the very most of the concept. The actors (again, espeically Paul) the writers, and entire crew were obviously very inspired, as they turned out one excellent episode after another. Many of them masterfully interweaved.

The 4th season kept the pattern going. And the Highlander team continued with exploring characters, and changes. While the concept was limited (who will Duncan meet from his past this week?), as such, we were introduced to the "dark side" of Duncan Macleod. If because of what the cast and crew had working together - the show continued on putting out either excellent, or good shows. While this turn was interesting, the somewhat dark side didn't always click with fans who saw Duncan as a role model and hero.

The 5th season found the writers trying to vary the previous season's problems. With many espisodes Duncan changing (often not using the sword at all), and sometimes mystical elements involved (which turned some fans off). But the professionalism continued.

By the 6th season, the show was hit and miss, and it seemed at times like it was soon to reach the end (which it did). The final episide was somewhat sentimental, but at the same time, fittingly obscure.

Highlander - Raven continued with the charming character of Amanda. But without Paul, the series didn't have the same backbone, and ultimately waned.

Adrian Paul would later reprise the Duncan MacLeod role in the film Highlander: Endgame, which is the best sequel as the films go (and on par with many TV episodes), but alas, the film did not fair well at the box office, as the previous sequels (2, and 3) were so bad, the mainstream stayed away. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Highlander The Series Vol 5
Vol Six is one of my favorites because of the background scenery.. the gardens and graveyards ...but is memorable for Adrian Paul's acting and closure to his life with Tessa...He drew me into the storyline so skillfully my emotions changed with his.. Tessa is my favorite leading lady...and we all miss her...Thank's for the opportunity to showcase my views along with being able to purchase it for replays in the future...Sincerely!Fleurs Deux ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Cousins, family, mischief, tragedy, life and love in Avonlea
"Avonlea" is a show that is of an impeccably high quality, balancing the line between the worlds of adulthood and childhood that sometimes interlap, sometimes don't, but never cliched, never sterotypical, and always maintaining a high level of fun and mischief. It's real life seen through the eyes of the beautiful town of Avonlea and the large extended King clan, which was created by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

It's a lovely show, no overbearing sappiness, but full of honest and varied sentimentality with incredible actors portraying wonderful characters with idiosyncrasies and quirks (sometimes you love em, sometimes you hate em), yet who still feel as though they could become your best friends. And it's these characters that run the show. They grew, they developed, and they become intensely realistic and beloved people with each passing season.

It's not your average series. Every episode is completely believable, and any of the circumstances that occur, or more often, unravel, feel as though they could occur in your own life. And because of it's intelligence and beauty adults may enjoy it more than they expect, though there's plenty of entertaining material for kids to find enthralling (I know many children who devoured this show, try showing them "Proof of the Pudding", I still find it hilarious). In terms of these videos, my one problem is that they don't have all the episodes on video yet. Otherwise you'll have no real problem taking any of the episodes and watching, since the writing is very throrough in making each episode it's own entity, though the whole series through the years developed numerous intricate plots.

And yet, even with the problems of real life barging through from the very first episode (which deals with embezzlement), there's always a warm glow that you will always find a loving place there. For years I imagined PEI, and these people as though I was there, that's a success for these filmmakers. "Avonlea" is full of love and life and eccentricities and tragedy. Yet with all of it's fans, and acclaim, and ratings, and awards through the years, it's real triumph is the fact that it was endearing and beautiful from the first moment to the very last.

L. M. Montgomery's "The Story Girl" comes to "Avonlea"
When her father is threatened with financial ruin, young Sara Stanley is shipped off to her late mother's relatives on Prince Edward Island. Sara arrives in Avonlea with her Nanny Louisa is tow, only to meet up with the formidable King family, headed by the imperious Aunt Hetty, who also happens to be the local school teacher. "The Journey Begins" is the pilot episode written by Heather Conkie for the "Avonlea" television series. Sara Stanley was a character featured in "The Story Girl," which was author Lucy Maud Montgomery's favorite novel, and its sequel "The Golden Road." Along with two collections of short stories known as the Chronicles of Avonlea, these four books are the material from which various episodes were developed for this series.

What becomes fascinating in this first episode is how the premises of "The Story Girl" are redeveloped for this series. In the books Sara would come to visit her King cousins each summer, heading back to Montreal in the fall. However, the situation needed to be altered so Sara was a more permanent part of the Avonlea community. They could have made Sara an orphan, in the grand tradition of Montgomery's most famous literary creations Anne of Green Gables and Emily of New Moon, but it is important that at least on some level Sara WANTS to stay on PEI. At the heart is one of Montgomery's strongest themes, how a young girl forges bonds of affection with a spinster. Aunts Hetty and Olivia certainly recall Emily's Aunts Elizabeth and Laura and there are strong echoes of that novel in this story.

One of the strengths of this series, in addition to its strong ensemble cast of solid character actors, is the casting of Sarah Polley as Sara Stanley. Polley had already proved herself to be one of the best "child" actresses of her generation before she got this role and she only continues to prove in this episode and the rest of the series. I used to have the Disney Channel just so I could watch "Avonlea" and honeymooned last year on PEI, staying at the "White Sands Hotel." So, it is pretty clear that I am just one of countless millions of enraptured fans. Whether you come from "Avonlea" to Montgomery's novels, or the other way around, just be sure you enjoy both.

The Genesis
Well, folks, this was the episode that started it all--"The Journey Begins". We are introduced at first to the palacious estate in which Sara, her father, and her Nanny Loisa lives. We see how extravagant a lifestyle Sara's grown up in, but she seems nonplussed and untainted about her wealth, though we do detect she's a bit spoiled. But when she and Nanny Louisa reach Rose Cottage and encounter the indomitable personage of Hetty King, sparks fly between the two stubborn ladies. What brings Sara and her Aunt Hetty together, though, is the death of Sara's mother. Hetty softens her attitude toward Sara; and everyone by the end of the episode wants her to stay, making it an easy decision for the happy girl! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

L.M. Montgomery's "The Story Girl" comes to "Avonlea"
When her father is threatened with financial ruin, young Sara Stanley is shipped off to her late mother's relatives on Prince Edward Island. Sara arrives in Avonlea with her Nanny Louisa is tow, only to meet up with the formidable King family, headed by the imperious Aunt Hetty, who also happens to be the local school teacher. "The Journey Begins" is the pilot episode written by Heather Conkie for the "Avonlea" television series. Sara Stanley was a character featured in "The Story Girl," which was author Lucy Maud Montgomery's favorite novel, and its sequel "The Golden Road." Along with two collections of short stories known as the Chronicles of Avonlea, these four books are the material from which various episodes were developed for this series.

What becomes fascinating in this first episode is how the premises of "The Story Girl" are redeveloped for this series. In the books Sara would come to visit her King cousins each summer, heading back to Montreal in the fall. However, the situation needed to be altered so Sara was a more permanent part of the Avonlea community. They could have made Sara an orphan, in the grand tradition of Montgomery's most famous literary creations Anne of Green Gables and Emily of New Moon, but it is important that at least on some level Sara WANTS to stay on PEI. At the heart is one of Montgomery's strongest themes, how a young girl forges bonds of affection with a spinster. Aunts Hetty and Olivia certainly recall Emily's Aunts Elizabeth and Laura and there are strong echoes of that novel in this story.

One of the strengths of this series, in addition to its strong ensemble cast of solid character actors, is the casting of Sarah Polley as Sara Stanley. Polley had already proved herself to be one of the best "child" actresses of her generation before she got this role and she only continues to prove in this episode and the rest of the series. I used to have the Disney Channel just so I could watch "Avonlea" and honeymooned on PEI, staying at the "White Sands Hotel." So, it is pretty clear that I am just one of countless millions of enraptured fans. Whether you come from "Avonlea" to Montgomery's novels, or the other way around, just be sure you enjoy both. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Lucy Maud would be proud....
The episodes on this video are How Kissing Was Discovered & Aunt Hetty's Ordeal. I loved both of the episodes. They bring tears to your eyes and joy to you life. I loved the beauty of the scenery If you are a fan of Avonlea movies get this one.

Oh, The Places You Will Go!
It's amazing how much I haven't grown up the past 10 years! Ten years ago, I teared up when Gus played his violin for Miss King (even though he "may wreck the King's english) out of appreciation for her care. Ten years later, I still had the same reaction. Some things prove to me that history only becomes history if you let it. Hetty King is a very strict, often irritating, demanding person, but you really can admire her for the 'hidden' love she shows for others. We see Gus' intro during the first episode, this vagabond in dirty clothes kissing the prim and proper Felicity; this is the beginning of their relationship: "Better than kissing my dog", Gus says! Then, we see the emergence of Gus as a motivated, intelligent young man trying to rise above his soiled past while balancing his ideals of a better future. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Great video
This video is preety awesome seeing the fact that my two favorite episodes are on the video. I wish it was still in publish so I could buy another one for keepsake. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Highlander the Series Season 1
Highlander the Series, Season 1 is not as flashy as later seasons, but the story line is good, the shows are well done, enjoyable and give you a solid base for Highlander lore.
It explains, much of the story of his love of Tess, how Richie came to be his student and immortal, as well as gives you a good bit of his own history.
The Quickenings are not as brillant as they are in later years, but if you are a Highlander fan it is definetly worth the effort to go ahead and buy the series

Hardcore Highlander Fan
I own all of the Highlander movies, as well as all of the Highlander: The Series 1-6. I don't think there was ever a better series on T.V. Not only is Adrian Paul fantastic to look at, the theme and messages were very well thought out. Since it appealed to a young(er) audience (& yes there was violence) but it taught overcoming adversity, fighting for what you believe in, and that doing the right thing is important (especially when you live forever) it spans all emotions: humor,love,sadness,tragedy and more, all of the things that make up LIFE. I highly recommend all of the series, start with the first and keep going til the end, it is better than any series on T.V. today.

Quite good
People don't believe me when I say that the TV serious had many episodes that are better than the films, but it's true. This series was very creative, and thrived in relative obscurity.

I tend to divide the Highlander fans up into two groups:

1) The true, hard core fans. They love the first Highlander film, and admit that the sequels are flawed, but none the less, like them too. They find Christopher Lambert's character more dangerous, practical, than Adrien Paul's.

2) Fans who think Highlander is an interesting idea, and are open to the concept however presented, as long as it was well written. (I fall into this category myself.) They the first film fascinating. Though if you know the concept, it seems to drag. The sequels all [are bad]. 2 is terrible, 3 is bad, and 4 a tad better, but too much like 1 and 3. But...

When they watch the TV series, they find the concept thrives. While the story repeats itself, the characters in the TV series are varied, and strong. And Adrian Paul, Jim Byrnes and the rest of the cast brought a certain charm to the concept. And the writing is quite excellent for television.

This set is for Season 1, when the show was just getting into it's routes. There are some bumps in the road, and the bad guys often not complex enough. But it's a very good start to the series.

My opinon, Seasons 2 & 3 were strongest, with many, many winners, and many interweaving plot lines. Season 4 is quite good. With 5 getting a little tired and often strange. And 6 the tank running empty, with a somewhat confusing (which is actually good) finale.

Not as good as the first movie, but still worthwhile.
For those of us whose ears are still ringing with that phrase from the first Highlander movie "there can be only one," we often wonder why there are so many sequels, not to mention this TV spin-off. The answer is simple: money.
Part of the intrigue of the first movie was that all-encompassing, somewhat mysterious storyline, and we assumed that Connor McLeod was the only surviving immortal. Apparently, he didn't know there were still so many others lurking around! Still, though, if you can get past that obvious (gaping) hole in the story, the sequels (not counting the 2nd one, which was pure crap) and the series are cool additions that expand on the universe of the immortals.
This series follows the life of Duncan McLeod, clansman of Connor. They have known each other for centuries, and Duncan was trained by his kinsman. The first episode features a guest spot by Christopher Lambert, and elaborates a lot on the story. Most of the rest of the episodes follow Duncan's exploits and flashbacks that lead him to many adventures.
Though this series is definitely not for everyone, the die-hard Highlander fans who remained unfulfilled by the story in the first movie will be greatly gratified by these additions. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Enjoyable action. Good hero story line.
McLeod returns from China only to have Richie tell him that Tessa is overdue. Driving to where she was last seen, a sheriff greets him with the news that three dangerous wanted men are in the area. Not waiting for the sheriff's men, he takes off to track Tessa's captors. Reading signs, he has a flashback of how he learned the ways of the forest and tracking silently. Fighting tiredness, hunger, the forest and time while running through the forest, he is captured and is killed. His sword is taken,too.

Painfully he resumes his quest. The youngest mountain man is captured and restrained. Caleb, the leader [who turns out to be an immortal] kills the second one thinking that he is trying make time with Tessa. Locked into battle with Caleb, Duncan must fight against his own sword and receives a serious wound from it. Nevertheless, he fights on to take Caleb's head. The lovers are reunited and the sheriff shows up with the captive young mountain man in tow.

The interesting thing that makes me chuckle is that while Duncan was running through the forest, he ended up barefoot, shirtless, and only his slacks and cloth strips around his forearms. He carried no satchel. Nevertheless, not having left the area yet, he appears in full typical Duncan wardrobe including footware. How did he get it?

These little glitches don't bother me. I enjoy that Duncan McLeod is presented as a real hero and not the anti-hero who breaks the laws with impunity such as we have frequently. He drinks coffee and juice in the early days and doesn't present liquor as a panacea for all woes. He doesn't smoke. He has to take care of himeself because he needs to have a clear head and a well toned body. Adrian Paul must have worked very hard on the sword scenes because he acts like it is a natural part of him. This makes the story more realistic. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A well-rounded, but still limited, B-movie actioner
Michael Biehn stars as a low-level criminal who unintentionally gets caught up in a high-level struggle to control a drug cartel. At the center of this struggle is a CD-ROM that holds all the cartel's dirty secrets. Further complicating this scenario is a female FBI agent who's not shy at playing all the angles to get the CD-ROM so the FBI can prosecute the cartel, sometimes at Biehn's expense.

This is a very decent B-movie, despite the budget limitations. While it does get cliched at the end, the movie never lets you rest until the final confrontation between Biehn, the FBI, and the drug cartel.

You'll be surprised. (Not bad, not bad at all).
While the title alone is likely to discourage you, "Breach of Trust" was a decent movie, all things considered. Admittedly, the plot was borderline 'been there, done that,' but director Charles Wilkinson did a remarkably extraordinary job of executing an otherwise mediocre film. The action was explosive and challenging, and Michael Biehn did a remarkable job portraying Casey, the equivocal 'good guy caught up with a bad crowd' who you just can't help loving. And while the brute stereotypes and ethnic crime-syndicate characters were overdone in their entirety, they accomplished the sometimes difficult task of intimidating the good guys. "Breach of Trust" is worth an open-minded look, so long as you're not adverse to weak, faltering dialogue. ... Read more