By Forris Day JR
First I’ll talk about the actual content of this 6 disc set. “One Step Beyond” came out before “The Twilight Zone”. I use “Twilight Zone” as a reference because “One Step Beyond” is very similar in style except the stories in “One Step Beyond” are supposedly based on actual paranormal events. This adds an extra creepy factor by knowing that they could be true events. That is if you believe in the paranormal. You do…don’t you? (Add sinister laugh here)
This collection, released by Film Chest Media Group, has seventy of the 96 shows. This is the most complete release to date. The episodes are hosted by John Newland. This guy has such a cool demeanor. He’s a real pleasure to watch introduce each story with his calm and thought provoking delivery. I like the way he is actually on the set of each episode as it begins. He does his intro, then as action begins, he slowly walks out of frame. Each episode ends the same way with Newland walking back on the set to wrap up the story. I am a fan of John Newland now.
The acting is above average for what you would expect for a television show and the sets are highly detailed. Many actors in this series went on to be huge. It amazes me at how much work obviously went into each production. I am not sure why “One Step Beyond” is not better known. The writing is tighter than most any show of the era and the stories are genuinely captivating. My only negative comment is the fact that some of the episodes have hiss in them and the sound is a little muddy here and there but that aside this show is one of the best. I’d rather see the episode with a bit of hiss than not see it at all.in
Lets discuss how “Film Chest Media” has packaged this set. All six discs are fit into a DVD case no bigger than a standard case. I love that. No odd shaped box or overly thick case. Just efficient use of space by using a DVD case designed to hold 6 DVDs. I also appreciate that they didn’t cheap out by using those crummy 2 sided discs. These are screen printed very clearly on one side with each disc being a different color. Whoever did this simple act of kindness for us users deserves a medal….or at least a free lunch. Also included is an episode synopsis sheet.
I can’t recommend this set enough and to top it off it is very affordable. Under 20 bucks brand new. Fans of “Twilight Zone”, “Alfred Hitchcock Presents” and “Outer Limits” will certainly enjoy the 30 hours of programing included on this set of discs.
Rating: 8.5/10 – “Do you Believe?”
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