If my description of Earl episodes are unenlightening that is only because the plotlines are not really the main fixture of the show. The show is based around these over the top (but in a good way) and ultimately very funny distinct characters. Each actor plays their character, from episode one, like they have been playing them for years. They all seem to be hitting their high notes in each episode. The characters alone make the show worth the viewers time, because each one at times is discovering this concept of being “good”, as if they are explorers discovering the new world for the first time. This allows the show to have a real heartbeat, because of the great acting and solid writing we as the viewers get wrapped up in these characters that are learning these new, yet important concepts.

Along with the main characters, there are a number of great guest appearances in the first season. The show’s creators find a way to make each one of the main characters and guest characters into distinctly different people. There never seems to be anyone that is overlapping, which is something that is rarer then prevalent in comedy television. Giovanni Ribisi (Saving Private Ryan, Gone In Sixty Seconds) appears in two episodes as the Hickey brothers’ friend who is unable to grasp the concept of Earl’s new non-stealing ways. Beau Bridges (The Ballad of Jack and Rose) also appears in two episodes as Earl’s estranged father, a man who hates his son for the wrong he has done to him and his family. One of the most touching episodes is “Dad’s Car”, where Earl’s mother says that for her gift she wants her husband and her son to get along. Also appearing are, Jon Favreau (Swingers), Christine Taylor (Zoolander), and Gregg Brinkley.

The DVD box set has some interesting special features. Exclusive to the DVD is a special short episode called “Bad Karma” that recounts the story of how Earl learned his lesson about karma, instead it does everything antithetically. Earl makes a list and sets up to do vengeance to everyone who has wronged him over the years. The customary features are also included on the disk, deleted scenes, blooper reel, and a making of featurette. But the creative minds behind the show Greg Garcia and Marc Buckland offer up some very interesting audio commentary on a number of the episodes. It’s worth it to hear these two guys make jokes about the show and tell there behind the scenes stories.

Though Earl, at times, may feel a bit repetitive, it creates enough new situations that bring the viewer back time and time again. There is certainly something ...