The Judy Garland Show, Vol. 07 - More Judy
Pioneer resumes its release of complete episodes ofThe Judy Garland Showwith Volume 7 (due to a change in numbering, there was no Volume 6).  The combination of episodes not only provides an overview of the show's brand of variety entertainment, but demonstrates why it was such a good showcase for Garland in her post-Hollywood career.  Episode 14 (aired 12/29/63) features Bobby Darin's singing, some comedy by Bob Newhart (including a self-deprecating sketch with him and Garland), and a dance number, but also a number of songs by Garland. Episode 23 (3/8/64) is all Garland, as she performs a solid hour of songs from the movies, and yes, that includes "The Boy Next Door," "The Atchison, Topeka & the Santa Fe," and "The Man That Got Away" (but not "Over the Rainbow").  Making the DVD even better are outtakes (not just funny bloopers, but a story and a three-song sequence), extensive liner notes, and a very interesting commentary track by series producer Gary Smith (he describes the joys and frustrations of working with Garland and explains that the show tried a lot of different ideas at the network's urging in hopes of improving the ratings).  A lovingly produced package all the way around.--David Horiuchi