Starring Hugh Laurie, Lisa Edelstein, Omar Epps, Robert Sean Leonard, Jennifer Morrison, Jesse Spencer
Written By: David Shore
Directed By:
Studio: Universal
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House Rules! There are two types of TV watchers – those who like medical dramas and those who like House M.D. Now, if you’re not one for medical dramas that’s ok because even though this show is set in a hospital and revolves around a doctor and his staff, its nothing that you’d expect. Hugh Laurie (he’s English but has the best American accent I’ve ever heard) plays Gregory House, a sarcastic, antisocial, handicapped yet brilliant doctor who’s addicted to pain killers. Now, even before we get into the medical stuff, the true entertainment comes from the HOUSE-isms and there’s a DVD in this 3 DVD set that’s full of them. One-liners with the intention to ridicule and insult their recipient. Ok so, this doctor works in a typical hospital and has this group of doctor lackeys – played by a group of award-winning, decent actors some of which you may know – Omar Epps (ER, Major League 2), Jennifer Morrison (Dawson’s Creek, Mr. & Mrs. Smith), and Jesse Spencer (basically nothing in the US). Each hour long episode revolves around a case that House and team must solve before the patient dies. The cases are like puzzles really. Not your typical cold or heart attack but ‘mystery’ illnesses – most of which involve controversial patients or situations adding to the drama. All of this goes on while the underlying issues of House’s drug addiction, past love interests and constant battling with the boss (played by Lisa Edelstein) take place. The episodes go quick and are almost too short to get all the information and great insults in. Favorite episode include the Pilot – one of the best ever and Mob Rules.

The 3 DVD set comes in a fantastic fold-out package with great art and photography. There are 3 two-sided DVDs with a total of 21 episodes. Some of the best material is on the last DVD – the bonus material. There’s a quick synopsis about Dr. House – what he really is and what he is about. A mini biography if you will. Also included is an in depth look at the medical cases with scenes from the episodes. These are narrated by the various writers (most of which are actual doctors) and it’s funny that the writers thought they were going to run out of diseases after season one. There’s a set tour, a casting session narrated by Hugh Laurie which is essentially an inside look at what goes on on the set. Then there’s the HOUSE-isms. Mini-scenes that bring out the true nature of Hugh’s character. Imagine being treated by a doctor who does nothing but treats you with sarcasm, an abrasive attitude and rude comments – but happens to save your life too. A brilliant concept, brilliant acting and great scripts in season one. This is one of the few TV dramas that it’s season one DVD set is worth a spot on the shelf.

Features:
Dr. House
Medical Cases Set Tour
HOUSE-isms
Casting Session with Hugh Laurie

Audio:
ENGLISH: Dolby Digital 5.1 CC

Video:
Widescreen 1.78:1 Color (Anamorphic)

Subtitles:
Spanish

Favorite Scenes: Pilot, Mob Rules
Rating: NR
Running Time: 972 minutes
Extras Rating:
Overall Rating: