Farscape - Season 3: Box Set (DVD, 2004, Boxed Set)

Farscape is that elusive gem that sci-fi buffs often spend their entire lives pining for---a science fiction series that satisfies the intellect without neglecting the funnybone. Quite simply it is the best of both worlds, mixing heavy duty physics with sometimes smarmy (but never tasteless) humor that keeps you on your toes. Our hero (and sometimes villain) John Crichton tosses off pop cultural references that will ring bells right and left with those of us who grew up in the 80's, befuddling his alien shipmates in the process, and somehow it never gets old or loses its freshness. The other parties in this little space opera are outstanding characters, performed outstandingly by some of Australia's best character actors and voices, and you grow to love even the most annoying of them. When people die, you cry, and in season three you will cry hard and often. But you'll also laugh and look forward to the next episode before the credits are finished rolling, and by the time you get to season four, you'll feel exhausted and exhilarated all at once. The series is quite simply the best, and I have yet to find anything that even comes close for human (and alien) drama mixed with comedy. Sometimes maudlin, occasionally gruesome, often hilarious, and always heartwarming, in the sci-fi world (and pretty much elsewhere as well) you just can't do better than this.