Undeclared: The Complete Series (DVD)
Created by: Judd Apatow
Starring: Jay Baruchel, Seth Rogen, Carla Gallo, Amy Poehler, Charlie Hunnam, Monica Keena

Undeclared is the acclaimed series (Time Magazine called it one of the best 10 shows on TV) created by Judd Apatow of Freaks and Geeks/40 Year Old Virgin (among others) fame. It ran on FOX which of course means…. it was canceled before it had a real chance to succeed in the ratings. I only caught a few episodes during its original run, so my excitement for this set was based on my discovery of “Freaks and Geeks” on DVD last year. Like that set, Apatow and co. have pulled out all the stops for all 4 discs of “Undeclared”.

“Undeclared” for the most part, does for college what Freaks and Geeks did for high school. That is, capture the awkwardness of becoming friends with people you probably wouldn’t have associated with in high school, the bizarre conversations, and the weird things you do with your freedom (beyond getting drunk every night). The difference though, is this is a half-hour show, and it tries harder to be a sitcom. The better episodes are the ones that either move at a faster pace by throwing in as many peripheral characters as possible, or mix in more drama. Overall I still prefer “F&G” to “Undeclared” as in comparison, “Undeclared” doesn’t have enough time to create the same connection to the characters. I don’t think it’s as funny either, but still, it’s a great show that deserved a longer run.

All 17 episodes are here, including an alternate episode with some slight changes (replacing a visit to see Ted Nugent speak with a viewing of American Pie. You’d think FOX would have no problem with a staunch conservative being showcased on the show, but apparently you’d be wrong).

A big mistake was made with these episodes being arranged in the wrong chronological order for this set. You’ll have to visit the “Undeclared” website for the proper order.For the most part that isn’t a problem though, as unlike “F&G”, “Undeclared” is a shorter show where most episodes can be taken as stand-alone. The only ongoing storyline is really the growing relationship/love triangle between main character/”regular guy” Steven Karp (Jay Baruchel) and Lizzie Exley (Carla Gallo) and her off/on boyfriend Eric (F&G’s Jason Segel, who steals every scene).

People who love playing the “Oh look its that guy!” game will have a field day with “Undeclared”, as not only are some of the cast now known for other things (Charlie “Lloyd” Hunnam is that Nicholas Nickleby guy and was on “Queer as Folk”, Amy “Hilary the R.A.” Poehler is currently a featured SNL cast member), but the cast includes numerous “F&G” alumni and guest appearances from Fred Willard, Adam Sandler, Will Ferrell, Kyle Gass, David Krumholtz, and Ben Stiller.

This set is pumped with extras. Just about everyone you’d want on the commentary tracks is there on one episode or another. As well there are lots of deleted scenes, auditions, rehearsals, a script, a Q&A and strangely, a half hour concert from Loudon Wainwright (yes, Rufus’ dad), who play’s Steven’s wacky divorced dad. — Goon

SCORE:

Recommended If You Like: Freaks and Geeks, The 40 Year-Old Virgin, Arrested Development