Because of its clever combination of heroism, mythology and humor, Hercules: The Legendary Journeys attracted millions of television viewers from all over the world. Fortunately for people like me who missed the TV series, DVD versions are available to bring us up to speed. Hercules: The Legendary Journeys – Season Five was recently released, and I’m happy to report that it’s a comprehensive nine-disc set featuring 22 exciting episodes and a group of all-new bonus materials.  

I admit to becoming a Hercules fan, thanks to DVD technology. As played by Kevin Sorbo, here’s a hero who displays not only great physical power but also deep sensitivity. And, despite his tongue-in-cheek humor (“What is war good for? Absolutely nothing.”), Sorbo’s Hercules never comes across as a smart-aleck or a holier-than-thou savior.  

In this fifth season, our hero faces more terrifying villains (including the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse) and must also come to grips with unimaginable loss -- the tragic death of his best friend Iolaus (Michael Hurst). To make matters worse, Hercules thinks he may be responsible for what happened to Iolaus. What Hercules goes through to bring his buddy back makes for compelling viewing indeed. Another unexpected development involves the relationship between Hercules and his brother Ares (Kevin Smith), the overbearing God of War.  

Happily, all these episodes contain sensational costumes, sets, fight choreography and cinematography. In my opinion, the production values of this series compare favorably with anything on the big screen today. I’m not surprised to learn that many of the people working on Hercules were also involved in The Lord of the Rings movies.  

Creativity of the writers should also be noted, especially for coming up with imaginative explanations concerning who put Excalibur so securely into that stone, why Triton’s daughter can never leave the sea, and what makes the eye of the Cyclops so dangerous.

Although the bonus materials here fail to match the high quality of those in the Season Four DVD, one very special feature makes up for that. “On Set Interviews with Kevin Sorbo and Anthony Quinn” gives us a poignant look at the way Quinn interpreted his role as Zeus, Hercules’ father. It’s a real treat to see this late, great actor again!

Other bonus items included are: audio commentaries and interviews with Sorbo, Michael Hurst, Bruce Campbell, Rob Tapert, Noreen Tobin and more; a featurette on “Bringing Monsters to Life at K.N.B. EFX Group;” a photo gallery; and a CD-Rom with "Hercules Chronicles," series trivia, mythology and key biographies.

(Released by Anchor Bay Entertainment and Davis-Anderson Merchandising; not rated by MPAA. For more information, visit www.herculescatalog.com.)