James Cameron’s “Dark Angel” lasted only two seasons on the FOX
network, but DVD has allowed fans to relive the sci-fi adventure.
Season two picks up with Max (Jessica Alba) searching for her
fellow survivors of a military experiment in a post-apocalyptic
Seattle. Most episodes show off the large budget with use of
elaborate action sequences and special effects, but Cameron and
company failed to make truly memorable characters. Alba was once
Hollywood’s “It-girl,” but her lack of emotional punch has led her
to drop almost completely off the map (“Honey” does not look like
it will be the answer either).
- Mira Levitan
While the picture is clear and the original television aspect
ratio is retained, the series was broadcast in the 16:9 widescreen
aspect for high definition owners, which is a superior format. The
soundtrack is Dolby Digital and is superior than the sound found in
even the original airings. The extras are average for a TV release
with select commentary tracks and three behind-the-scenes
features.
“Dark Angel” is enjoyable, but never achieved the success of
other female-led action dramas because it lacked the wittiness of
“Buffy” and the thrills of “Alias.” Cameron has created memorable
science fiction in his films; however, he was unable to defend his
self-proclaimed “King of the World” title with the failure of “Dark
Angel.”
Movie: 3 1/2 stars.
Picture/Sound: 4 stars.
Features: 2 stars.