Initial D: First Stage - The Complete First Season - Region 1 DVD

Initial D scored a huge hit in Japan, generating two sequels, two spin-offs, numerous video games, a theatrical feature, and a live-action film. But the computer animation of the races that looked cutting edge in 1998 now feels passé: any video game offers flashier car races. The Complete First Season set includes all 26 episodes of the original series and first installment of the first sequel, Initial D: Second Stage (1999). Although each episode is presented in both "classic" (original video, Japanese dialogue, original music) and "tricked out" (enhanced video, English dialogue, hip-hop soundtrack) versions, including only three per disc seems stingy. (Rated TV PG, suitable for ages 14 and older: minor violence, tobacco and alcohol use, street racing, profanity) --Charles Solomon