Blu-ray Review: Rescue Me: The Complete Series

Synopsis: From series creators Denis Leary and Peter Tolan, the highly acclaimed "Rescue Me" galvanized audiences with its uncompromising portrayal of the New York City firefighters of 62 Truck, whose duty to save lives puts their own in constant turmoil - on the front lines, in the firehouse, and at home.

Main Feature: Being a fan of Denis Leary's stand-up comedy, I was instantly attracted to "Rescue Me" when it premiered on FX Network in 2004. It very mush maintained Leary's in-your-face humor and, as time went on in subsequent seasons, him a central (sometimes distracting) character of the firehouse dramedy. The core, beating heart of the show was its supporting characters. Upon viewing this new release from Mill Creek Entertainment, I forgot how much I enjoyed the show but took some issues in later seasons. One could argue that with any show, but "Rescue Me" had varying, shifting perspectives and focuses. When Leary's Tommy had the main spotlight, it became repetitive despite the entertainment. But focus on the fellow firehouse members, and its became deeper and richer in its dramatic punch. This allowed the characters to grow and show that personal struggles, addiction, cynicism and neurosises went beyond its lead character. John Scurti's Lt. Kenneth "Lou" Shea remains one of my top 5 all-time favorite, greatest TV characters ever. That is not to say Leary shines. As actor, he has range. As co-creator and sometimes writer, he tackles a subject still ripe and tender in the lives of Americans, especially in NYC: when do the heroes of 9/11 stop becoming heroes? Its striking, raw premise that still reverberates to this day. Plus, this show attracted quality recurring guest stars: Charles Durning, Susan Sarandon, Maura Tierney and Michael J. Fox (the 3rd being the sole Emmy the show won, for Guest Actor in a Drama).

Special Features: Much of the extras are carryovers from the original DVD releases of the seasons. Gag reels a plenty, interviews with Leary, Tolan, and the cast, featurettes, audio commentaries--the usual suspects.

Final Call: Much like its flawed characters, "Rescue Me" was an imperfect show that show that still burns in its complete Blu-ray debut. 

Grade: B