The Sullivans

After initial confusion over the compatibility of this DVD with players around the world, The Sullivans was actually released as a Region 0 DVD, which means it should play anywhere. Having already bought the earlier VHS release of The Sullivans, I was curious to see what extras the DVD would offer. I wasn't disappointed.

As well as containing the very first three episodes of the show (although it was originally billed as containing four), you will also find a special feature-length compliation of episodes co-starring a very young Mel Gibson.

What's more, there are short interviews with both Lorraine Bayley (Grace) and Andrew McFarlane (John), conducted in 2001.

The main feature begins just days before the outbreak of the war, and introduces us to all the main protagonists - The Sullivans, their neighbours and friends. Despite being over thirty years old, the episodes hold up remarkably well - testament to Crawford's excellent production values.

The "Mel Gibson episodes" are from further along in the show's run - and include other popular characters such as Geoff (Jamie Higgins), the young orphan who is adopted by Grace and Dave. Kitty is much more grown up than she appears in the first episodes.

The short interviews don't give too much interesting information, and are probably more of interest to see how the two actors have aged (quite nicely actually!)

My only complaint is that you will be left wanting more! Since this DVD came out a few years ago, no more episodes of The Sullivans have been released. Given the recent success of DVDs of other soaps of the era, such as Sons and Daughters and The Young Doctors, hopefully it can only be a matter of time before that is rectified.

More reviews will be added soon