The Following is one of the hottest shows on TV, looking to reinvigorate the cat-and-mouse, criminal and lawman genre utilizing hints of crime fiction, police procedural, and mystery genres. The absolutely star-studded cast (Kevin Bacon, James Purefoy, Natalie Zea) took to the air early in 2013, and have captured a considerable viewer share throughout its initial 15-episode run. The dynamic that is present between the serial killer Joe Carroll (Purefoy) and Kevin Bacon’s Ryan Hardy, a formerly-retired agent of the FBI that has been tasked with apprehending Carroll is delightful. Imagine the interplay between Batmand and Robin and one will begin to scratch the surface of this relationship. The inclusion of the current generation of FBI agents (Shawn Ashmore’s Mike and Annie Parisse’s Debra) allows for a greater amount of dramatic tension to be present. Over the course of The Following’s initial fifteen episodes, viewers will be introduced to the central conflict and a large group of supporting characters. Valorie Curry’s role as a former Carroll cult follower feels versed in those former adherents that have provided law enforcement agencies with information regarding current-day extremist groups.
The video quality of this initial season of episodes is stellar, blending the same crisp and clear audio with the high definition video that was present on the initial airing of the show. The DVD set’s version of this season is better than the initial airing in that the episodes are without commercial breaks and any further distraction; viewers are also given a number of bonus features to further increase the replay value of this set. For example, the Blu-Ray edition features audio episode commentaries, featurettes about the show’s creator, production chronicles, and a slew of unaired scenes.
A second season of The Following has been approved and will begin airing on January 19th. Individuals that like The Following can purchase the complete first season at brick and mortar and online retailers for around $25-35.
Rating: 9.0/10
The Following The Complete First Season DVD Set / 2014 Warner Bros. / http://www.warnerbros.com/