Product: The Sandbaggers Collection Set 2 (1999)
Rating: 4.0
Intelligent, gritty, realistic -- so, worthwhile
James Bond-like portrayal of the intelligence business may have broken new ground in its time, but the Sandbaggers series paints Bond into a corner as pure fantastic escapism. Rather, the reality of the business is continual risk-taking, running through mazes whose wrong paths can be deadly, lack of support or understanding from those who most benefit from actions taken, a steady stream of surprises any of which might be the last, and yes, complete disavowal of one's mission should it fail. The dialogue was written by intelligent people for like types, and while episode quality varies from B-- to A, each one has its poignant message(s) as well as drama. Overall, one of the better picks for action/drama, though you will never see Bond in the same light again.