"Space Ghost Coast to Coast:" Volume 1 DVD

I would highly recommend watching an episode of "Space Ghost" before buying this DVD set because "Space Ghost," like flan, is not for everyone. But if you try it, as I have, and like it, as I do, this DVD will give you all the flanny goodness you can handle. Mostly, the only difference between owning the DVD and watching it on television is that the DVD gives you everything in one place.

"Space Ghost Coast to Coast" is a faux talk show that follows the characters, a super-hero and his captive co-stars, through the show's production, execution and off-hours activities. "Space Ghost" is what "The Larry Sanders Show" would be as a cartoon, low-functional schizophrenic with a "Tick"-like appreciation of good and contempt for almost everyone except the sexy ladies.

"Space Ghost" isn't for everyone, but does have a rabid following. Some like it for the minor celebrity bashing. For instance, a desperate Adam West is prevented from plugging his book. Some enjoy it for its strangeness, like when Space Ghost has to slay his beloved Banjo, the Sea Monkey King gone insane with destructive power. And of course, there are the moments that transcend strangeness to an uncomfortable, hallucinatory dream.

The DVD extras are lame and unenlightening. Why not more commentary? How many cartoons does Ted Turner own? How do "Space Ghost's" creators feel about the show? Did anyone ever sue them? The opportunity to share anything at all about outside forces affecting the show was squandered completely.

Space Ghost, himself, is "The Simpsons" and "Family Guy's" weird older brother, a character unlike any other on TV. I would've thought that too much of this would be overwhelming, but the time I spend with my "Space Ghost" DVD actually seemed funnier and better as they went on. This is great TV and a must-own DVD, for someone with a certain sense of humor.