In the early 1980's, I grew up watching some truly classic cartoons. These cartoons were no doubt classics, timeless treasures that has faded away from Saturday mornings since the early 90's. I'm not going to complain about the lack of Saturday morning fun every child is entitled to, instead, every Saturday morning the last three weeks involves one full disc of Voltron. Not only do I have flashbacks, but my two little girls recite all the key lines to Voltron's formation. No doubt the show maintains the quality to entertain that is did over 20 years ago, but truly the question comes to how does it look and sound, and is it worth getting. My answer is a resounding yes!



I am going to set aside the story, as it most important for the little ones to discover it on their own, it's that much fun. It also as much fun for us older fans to re-discover the joy we did as children. Sure the story is a little cheesy and has plot holes you could drive a semi through. Yet at the same time, it never stops rolling with the action, twists and furthering of the overall story without being too serialized. In the story department it's no better time to enjoy the show for what it did best, entertain and captivate.

The restoration put into this classic show is no doubt amazing, there I still some slight issues with here and there with flecks and scratches, but the effort clearly shows. The colors are more vibrant than ever. When the show was re-airing in my freshman year at college, annoying my roommate to no end, the colors were dull. You can see screenshots almost anywhere comparing the scenes from this dvd release to any version ever made. Considering the age of the show, the work placed into restoring this show is simply outstanding. We have not yet seen the special features, the girls would never sit through that, I intend on watching them soon enough. I would have enjoyed seeing some other shows restored like this. It wouldn't be so hard on the eyes.

The re-mastered 5.1 stereo is a wonderful experience. I find this be very eloquent work and making the show a true cinematic experience. One experience that I wouldn't mind showing off my home theater with. Voltron is the perfect show to bring to 5.1 as it was originally made in stereo, I begged my mom to get a stereo tv after hearing Voltron at a friends house. The transition to 5.1 is very natural for Voltron to make and it is so much fun. The subwoofer kicks in, in all the right places, during dramatic fights and the formation of Voltron. There are definite times when the surround kicks in that I feel immersed in the show. One thing to watch out for is the occasional episode that seems to have higher level of power in it. So you may adjust the volume a notch or two unless you don't notice subtle changes like this. The nostalgia factor is there who want the original 2.0, yet if you love your stereo like I love mine. It is truly worth kicking on the full range.

If you like collectible packing, this tin is simply beautiful. It's slim and doesn't take up much space on the shelves. With future volumes designed to stack together, it is sure to be a pleasing sight on any shelf. The actual case inside the tin is a snug fit, so if you intend on keeping everything in perfect shape don't rush getting the case out. The little booklet included was a nice treat as well, showcasing some nice artwork and seeing the synopses for all the episodes. I hate to rag on Rhino, but they could learn a lesson from Media Blasters with the release of Voltron. The packaging is top notch and beautiful, and something I can proudly display on the shelf.

I am a Voltron fan first and foremost, so I had high expectations for this release. I am highly impressed and eager for the next volume. As well are the little ones who keep asking me, "Where's the next Voltron daddy?" We've been waiting years for this kind of release and it was worth the wait. There is no better time to be a kid again, especially if you have children of your own. Let's go Voltron force!

Rating: 5 / 5 Highly Memorable!

Copyright 2006 - JAJ