For those of you that are unfamiliar with the format of 24, it's a pretty simple, but rather revolutionary idea for network television. Each episode is one hour of the same single day. So after a bunch of episodes, you've got one day. On the surface, it does beg the question, how do you keep things exciting if the events manage to occur in one day? Well, by creating suspense at every opportunity and placing plenty of red herrings at every turn.

Theoretically, all the events that occur could happen in one day (of course, that'd be a real busy day) but that's really not the point. Realism has never been the important part of a show like this. What's important is the drama and suspense. Thankfully, the second season is even more fine tuned than the last, providing ample opportunities for nail biting and waiting. And with this DVD set, you don't even have to wait for the next week to see what's going to happen.

The actual plot progression is too much of a labyrinth to explain in any cohesive way, but there's the threat of a nuclear disaster in Los Angeles, and Jack is pulled in for one last score. People will betray him once again and his daughter Kim will get in plenty of trouble. Next to the acting and the actual execution the writing is unbelievably good and prescient of events that occurred in the world. It's amazing how writers and artists can sometimes know more than the people in charge.

The vetern cast is incredible. Sopranos vets, experienced film actors and characters actors that you see all the time, all make their home here, only if it's for a handful of episodes.. It's really incredible that such an ensemble is so well balanced. Xander Berkeley in particular, shows just what a strong supporting cast this show really has. One last thing: I love the inclusion of Hispanic actors who aren't stereotypically "Hispanic". Next to Asians, they're one of the more under-represented minorities on television. It's a small touch like this that proves the creators care about authenticity. Of course there are Latinos in Los Angeles. Now we finally get to see them - as heroes and villians alike.

The only time 24 even brushes with some eye rolling, is when Kim is put like a little kitten into perilous situations. Although nothing really comes of it, as soon as I saw that cougar it took me out of the experience for a short moment. But that's thirty seconds in 24 (OK, without commercials: 17.6) hours of brilliance.

TV Grade: A+

Video: 4 out of 5
It's lovely getting to see this in a widescreen format for the first time. It really and truly feels like something that could be seen in the cinema. There's a slight graininess to some scenes, but otherwise a perfect presentation.
Widescreen Anamorphic 1.78:1