It's time to play Blue's clues!
by Gord Lacey (All reviews) |
11/17/2002 |
What a great show for kids! Premiering in 1996, "Blue's Clues" won the Television Critics Award for Outstanding Children's show in 1998 and 1999 and has been nominated for multiple daytime Emmy awards. The show teaches children about counting, shapes, languages, problem solving and even sign language. The education is very subtle and always fun. The hosts (Steve, and now Joe) sing catchy songs and play games to help educate the children.
"Get to Know Joe" introduces Steve's brother, Joe. Joe comes for a visit but ends up staying in the house when Steve learns he's going off to college. Joe was introduced in a 3 episode arc that aired back-to-back and all 3 episodes are included on this DVD along with "The Big Book About Us", the 8th episode in the 5th season. Included as an extra on this DVD is the 100th episode celebration showing highlights of the past 100 episodes and all the fun that was had. Someone also makes a surprise visit during the episode.
Video
"Blue's Clues" is live-action video shot against a blue screen with animations added later. All these episodes come from 2002 and the video is absolutely excellent. It's nice and bright with vivid colors to capture the young one's attention. Although the animation is a little crude, it's very suitable for young children. The opening to the show is shot with film and does contain some dust and film grain. There is a "play all" feature included for the disc. Audio
This stereo track contained more directional audio that I had anticipated. Most of the dialog comes from the center speaker but the left and right speakers are used when a character off screen is talking. Although there aren't subtitles, the show is closed captioned. Extras - How we rate extras
Blue's Clues 100th Episode Celebration (24:07)
A full episode as an extra. This episode celebrates the 100th episode of "Blue's Clues" with a big party and clips from the past 100 episodes.
Nick Jr. Parents Guide
9 text screens about "Nick Jr. Play To Learn Philosophy", "Blue's Clues" and an "Extended Activity". These screens contain information for parents that want to help their children get the most out of the episodes on the DVD. Parents that want more information should visit the Blue's Clues page on the Nick Jr. site. Summary
I first saw "Blue's Clues" by accident while I was flipping though the TV channels one Saturday morning. I had heard of the show and decided to watch a bit of it to see what it was all about. I got totally sucked in and found myself talking to the TV. Yeah, I know...I'm crazy. In my defense, Steve WAS talking to me and it would have been rude not to respond, right? After all, I was his special friend.
Purchasing a DVD like this one is really a no-brainer for parents. You get 4 episodes plus the bonus 100th episode which should keep your kids entertained for hours. Great DVD for kids (of all ages). |
