The trio of stars have really created something special here. I only wish that it found an audience so we could have gotten further adventures. Watching them go through their absurdist motions may not elicit belly laughs, it may not provide the over the top edge of South Park, and it may not fall within the confines of the traditional sitcom or sketch comedy show, and therein lies its brilliance. The guys of Stella bring an innocent, if bizarre, vision to the screen, and it is a breath of fresh air.
Audio/Video. Neither is perfect, but both accurately portray the original broadcasts, which were hampered by having a low budget more than by any transfer issues. The image is 1.33:1 and is generally clean and free of artifacts. The audio is stereo and has some odd quirks, like the voices sometimes sounding like the mike was too far away, all issues that existed in the original recording.
Extras. There is a nice selection of extras to compliment the ten episodes.
- Deleted Scenes. A selection of funny scenes and lengthened takes.
- Blooper Reel. Flubbed lines among the usual assortment of gags.
- Comedy Central Quickies. A couple of short scenes from South Park and Reno 911.
- Featurette: "The History of Stella." This is a very good addition, it runs about 45 minutes and features a lengthy interview with the trio which includes a ton of old footage of them from their college days to their time with The State to the original Stella stage show and video taped sketches.
- Featurette: "Comedy Central Presents: Stella." This was a half hour live show that aired on the channel.
- Commentaries. Their are commentaries on all ten episodes by the troupe. They are very good listens, as they blend anecdotes on the making of the episode with them goofing around. Lots of fun and worth a listen.
- Easter Eggs. Supposedly there is at least one egg on the set, I have not yet found it.
Bottomline. This was a funny series that I wish there was more of. If you like non-traditional comedy, give this a try. Michael, Michael, and David are a funny trio.
Recommended.
Article comments
1 - triniman
I have the first episode and thought it was hilarious. Haven't seen anything else but I will likely get this dvd.