Blu-ray Review: Sons of Anarchy Season One

When I first heard that FX was planning on airing a series about the underground world of motorcycle clubs, I thought it was a unique concept. The series would be called “Sons of Anarchy. Kurt Sutter, a writer on “The Shield” who eventually became one its Executive Producers, was the creator of this new series and I thought, “Hmm, I should check this out.” Next, two acting favorites, Katey Sagal (“Futurama”) and Ron Perlman (“Hellboy”) were announced as the lead actors. I exclaimed, like a ‘kid in a candy story,’ “Whoa, I have to check this out.”

Finally, the pilot arrived and I was pleased, but not excited with the show. The Sopranos style layout did indeed create for a unique dynamic that was overwhelmingly bolstered by a stunning, albeit disturbing, performance from Katey Sagal. Unfortunately, three episodes later I found my interest waning. The story was overly ambitious and hit viewers with too many subplots at once. Outside of Sagal’s amazing performance as Gemma Teller Morrow, most of the other characters were lost in the crossfire.

Thank the heavens for Blu-ray releases and second chances. “Sons of Anarchy: Season 1” is spectacular character driven story that reminds us “edge” still exists on TV. Once you hit episodes five and six, you will soon forget any doubt as to the brilliance of this series. Jax Teller, the Vice President of the gunrunning Sons of Anarchy motorcycle club, is caught in a bitter battle between living the dream of his dead father and following the ambitions of his mother and stepfather. Each moment is more shocking than the next, without testing the limits of being so over-the-top as to be unbelievable.

Midway through the season, you’ll get the full scope of all of the characters sub-plots, quirks and relationships to fully appreciate the series’ overarching direction. I won’t spoil the ending for viewers, who haven’t had the chance to enjoy this series yet, but Sutter begins to employ several symbolic shots, set dressing and wardrobe that is reminiscent of David Chase on The Sopranos.

“Sons of Anarchy” is definitely a TV series that viewers will want to watch. This is far more than a series about a gang and organized crime. At its core, “Sons of Anarchy” is a family drama. Gritty is an understatement for “Sons of Anarchy.” The series is bold, at times gruesome and ethically conflicted; it will have you contemplating exactly where the limits of moral correctness lie when dealing with family. And, Katey Sagal’s performance is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Special Features
- Audio Commentary on Selected Episodes
- The Making of Sons of Anarchy Season 1 Featurette
- Additional Featurettes: Casting Sons of Anarchy, The Ink, The Bikes
- Deleted Scenes
- Anarchy on Set